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Netflix & Nutrition: A Review of 'You Are What You Eat'


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In this week's episode, we are diving deep into the world of nutrition with a critical review of the Netflix documentary "You Are What You Eat." Before you overhaul your diet based on a documentary binge, join us as we unravel the truths, myths, and the deep details of the twin study the documentary was based on.


🎧Listen to the Podcast Episode [here]



Exploring the Dietary Duel: Vegan vs. Omnivorous

The researchers from Stanford University orchestrated a nutrition showdown by recruiting 22 pairs of identical twins. One twin in each pair embraced a vegan diet, while the other went the omnivorous route. The results were intriguing, showcasing not just the benefits but also the nuances of each dietary choice.



Behind the Scenes of the Study

The study was a meticulous eight-week experiment, providing meals and nutritional guidance to the participants. The goal was clear: compare the impacts of a vegan and an omnivorous diet on various health markers.



The Vegan Victory?

The vegan group exhibited lower fasting insulin and LDL cholesterol levels, coupled with a weight loss victory. But, as with any study, there were nuances. The participants on the vegan diet experienced a drop in HDL ("good" cholesterol) and lower concentrations of vitamin B12 along with lower dietary enjoyment and adherence.



What the Documentary Didn’t Tell You

Beyond dissecting the study, Gary and Will unravel the layers the documentary might not have covered. They emphasize the importance of not basing your nutrition solely on documentaries and highlight the potential influences of on of the documentary's sponsor, Beyond Meat.



Coaching Takeaways

  1. All-or-Nothing Dilemma: A diet need not be an all-or-nothing affair. The study's success wasn't just about being vegan—it was about reduced calorie intake. Diets work when they limit choices, but sustainability is key.

  2. Navigating Dietary Shifts: Helping clients adopt more plant-based diets requires a strategic approach. Incremental, sustainable changes pave the way for success.

  3. Universal Nutrition Principles: Whether plant-based or omnivorous, universal nutrition principles remain—focus on minimally-processed foods, lean protein, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables.



Discover the intricacies of the vegan vs. omnivorous debate and gain valuable insights into making nutrition work for you. Listen to Episode 201 on your preferred podcast platform.




🎧 Listen to the Podcast Episode [here]





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