Organic Life

Organic food, organic produce… these are terms that can mean many different things to different people. In this first episode of Organic Life we wanted to take a look at the definition of "organic" in some more detail. So we've enlisted the expertise of 3 organic farmers for the next 3 episodes. They are Bryde of Meadowsweet Organics (http://www.meadowsweetorganics.co.uk/) . We also take a look at some of the key differences between large-scale and small-scale organic farming. And, whether eating organic can benefit our own health.

Is organic food better for the environment? That's one of the topics we'll be tackling on this episode. On top of that, why organic farmers are essentially soil farmers. More on crop diversity and polycultures. And knowing which organic fruit and veg to prioritise doesn't need to be difficult - step forward The Clean Fifteen (https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/clean-fifteen.php) . With thanks to Bryde of Meadowsweet Organics (http://www.meadowsweetorganics.co.uk/) .

Organic farming can be a challenging, but rewarding venture. On this episode we find out about the importance of community - as well as the benefits of Community Supported Agriculture (https://communitysupportedagriculture.org.uk/) . On top of that, a discussion on growing (and eating) seasonally, and a look at rising tensions between organic and non-organic means of production. With thanks to Bryde of Meadowsweet Organics (http://www.meadowsweetorganics.co.uk/) .

Throughout the remainder of the first season, we're going to be hearing from forager, research herbalist and ethnobotanist Monica Wilde (http://monicawilde.com/) . One of Monica's specialities is mushrooms and fungi, and on this episode, we’re talking about four species that have become really popular these past few years - Cordyceps, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, and Reishi. 

In the last episode we heard about some of the health benefits you might see by using mushrooms like Cordyceps, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, and Reishi in your diet. But could their increasing popularity potentially see these resources being over-foraged? And is it possible to grow your own? Forager, research herbalist and ethnobotanist Monica Wilde (http://monicawilde.com/) returns to answer these questions, and more!

The food you eat is what your body uses to build, regenerate, and repair itself. And that's one of the reasons why the quality of your food is much more important than things like the number of calories it contains. On this episode we're joined by Nutritional Therapist Carrie Temple of Strive (http://www.always-strive-to.com/) . We'll find out why calorie restrictive diets might be doing you more harm than good, why eating fat doesn't necessarily make you fat, and whether or not you can out-exercise bad eating habits. On top of that, Carrie also offers some tips on how to begin making positive changes to your diet!

On this episode we're joined once again by Nutritional Therapist Carrie Temple of  Strive (http://www.always-strive-to.com/) . We're continuing our conversation about the concept of food not simply being food, but detailed information for every cell in your body. Information that can be good or bad. This time around, we're going to learn about why insulin and blood sugar matter, even if you don't suffer from any form of diabetes. We'll also talk about medication. Most folks take pills of some sort on an ongoing basis to help alleviate symptoms of chronic, non life threatening conditions. But is it possible to approach these problems from a different angle, and look at prevention, rather than cure? And finally, what's the deal with gluten? Should you eliminate it from your diet? Or is the gluten-free trend simply a fad that's been capitalised on by big processed food companies?

It isn't always cheap to source nutritious organic food. But in actual fact, there's plenty available for free - if you know where to look, and what to look for. This forms the basis of our chat with forager, research herbalist and ethnobotanist Monica Wilde (http://monicawilde.com/) , who joins us for another episode. You'll learn about the almost endless list of benefits to be had from foraging, as we discuss the positive effects of getting outdoors and in amongst nature.

We've talked about the types of food you can grow and forage for inland. Now, we turn our attention to the sea. There's an abundance of nutritional and culinary delights to be had in the form of seaweed. And on this episode, Monica Wilde talks us through the health benefits, as well as offering hints and tips on how to find the best quality ocean-based plants. A huge thanks to Monica for joining us on this season of Organic Life. Here are the various links she mentions at the end of the episode. Monica's website (http://monicawilde.com/) Monica's Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/monicawilde/) Monica's Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/monicawildeforager/) Monica's Twitter (https://twitter.com/monicawilde/) The Association of Foragers (https://www.foragers-association.org.uk/)

On this episode we're joined once again by Nutritional Therapist Carrie Temple of  Strive (http://www.always-strive-to.com/) . We've heard a lot about the importance of a healthy and nutritious diet in this series so far. But in what instances should people seek advice on supplementation to make sure they're getting all of the nutrients their body needs? Also, we talk about exercise. Is it really necessary to spend an hour in the gym if you feel like you're torturing yourself? Are there other options available for staying active? And on the same note, do you need to suffer eating bad tasting food in order to be healthier? A huge thanks to Carrie for taking the time to answer all of these questions. Here's where you can connect with her. Strive Therapy Hub (http://www.always-strive-to.com/) Carrie Temple Nutrition (http://www.carrietemple.com/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/carrietemplenutritionaltherapy) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nutritiontemple) And while you're at it, give us a wee follow on our own new shiny Instagram account organiclifepod (https://www.instagram.com/organiclifepod/) .

Autumn and winter bugs are more common than the deaths of fictional characters played by Sean Bean. Not to worry though, we've got Rosy of Meadowsweet Organics (http://www.meadowsweetorganics.co.uk/) back on the show. As well as being an organic farmer, she's also a practising herbalist. On this episode, we'll be talking about the methods, foods, and supplements you can use to fortify your immune system heading into the cold period. Of course, life does happen, so we'll also look at some of the more curative treatments for cases where you do end up under the weather. And, on top of that, Rosy also offers some tips on winter mental health! Finally, would you like to start your very own podcast based around your business or hobby? If so, check out this free step-by-step guide (https://www.thepodcasthost.com/organic) that'll walk you through everything you need to know, from planning to publishing.