EP314: The Truth about Nutrient-Dense Foods with Dr. Sarah Ballantyne

INSIDE THE EPISODE There’s a common, often overlooked, dietary imbalance that may be increasing the risk of obesity, heart disease, pain, and mental health issues. That imbalance lies in the type of fats we consume, or the essential omega-6 (think seeds oils) and omega-3 (think fish and leafy greens) fats. While our ancestors evolved with a balanced ratio, today we consume about 20x more omega 6 fatty acids which many experts, like this week’s podcast guest, Dr. Simopoulos, a world authority on essential fatty acids and former nutritional adviser to the White House, believes it is responsible for our skyrocketing rates of disease.  So in this week’s podcast we’ll explore how this imbalance crept into our modern diets, why it’s driving so many of today’s chronic health issues, and what you can do to turn it around. If you’ve ever wondered why inflammation, brain fog, and fatigue are so common—or why omega-3s are considered essential—this episode is for you!  Dr. Simopoulos unpacks: The surprising sources of omega-6 overload The importance of prostaglandins (and what they are!) The powerful benefits of omega-3s for your brain, heart, and longevity And the simple steps you can take to restore balance and feel your best.  It’s a fascinating look at how something as seemingly small as a ratio can have such a profound impact on your health.  So grab your favorite snack, tune in, and learn how to eat for optimal health! VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Fish Roe>>> Increase your Omega-3s with Paleovalley's Wild Caught Fish Roe Risk-Free + Save up to 20% Today! The Healthiest Diet for You: Scientific Aspects>>> Download your *FREE* copy of Dr. Artemis Simopoulos’ book HERE!  

IN THIS EPISODE Stress is more than an uncomfortable feeling—it can unravel our health in profound ways.  Research shows that chronic stress not only drains our energy and disrupts our mood but also contributes to a host of serious health issues, from heart disease to immune dysfunction.  In today’s fast-paced world, we often turn to stimulants to find balance, yet many of these “remedies” leave us feeling more depleted and anxious. Which is why this week’s postcard episode features Dan Chapman, the creator of REDD Remedies, a company devoted to creating herbal formulas that restore balance in today’s fast-paced world.  Dan has identified 3 unique responses to stress and targeted, natural solutions. So if you feel stressed, anxious, overwhelmed or exhausted, this is a conversation you do not want to miss! Here are some of the other fascinating topics we discussed: How stress impacts health and disease The relationship between stress & energy Signs stress is negatively affecting your health 3 ways people experience stress Common stress “remedies” that often make things worse Herbs that can exacerbate stress-based issues What adaptogens are and why they are helpful Great herbs for balancing stress and improving energy Herbs for improving anxiety and nervousness Herbs for melancholy and cultivating joy Difference between wild-crafted and organic herbs Herbs for moms, pregnancy and kids Simple steps you can take to reduce stress And do much more! Tune in to learn all the juicy details today! VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Essential C Complex>>> Boost your overall Health with Paleovalley’s Essential C Complex + Save up to 20% HERE! Redd Remedies>>> Learn more about Redd Remedies HERE!  

INSIDE THE EPISODE Imagine battling for justice against a giant corporation in court, your health and life on the line, and being awarded over $200 million. This was the reality for Dewayne "Lee" Johnson, the brave groundskeeper who took on Monsanto and won a landmark lawsuit that shocked the world. His story is not just about one man's fight against a powerful company; it’s a tale of resilience, truth, and the pursuit of justice in the face of overwhelming adversity. In our latest episode of the Optimize Paleo Podcast, we sit down with Dewayne "Lee" Johnson to delve into the details of his incredible journey, the legal battle that made headlines, and the profound implications it has for public health and corporate accountability. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss and here are some of my favorite moments: What Monsanto told him about glyphosate’s safety The choices that lead to his Glyphosate exposure The moment he noticed his first symptoms The link between glyphosate exposure and cancer The shocking reason his settlement was reduced His ultimate goal for speaking out Whether the levels of glyphosate in food are an issue And so much more! Dewayne doesn’t really do interviews anymore - so listen in for exclusive access to his remarkable story.  I sincerely hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley  >>> Optimize your Health with Paleovalley Whole-Food Snacks and Supplements + Shop RISK-FREE at up to 20% HERE! Monster >>> Listen to Dewayne Lee Johnson's Powerful Song from 'Into the Weeds' HERE!

INSIDE THE EPISODE Did you know that nearly 70 million Americans suffer from digestive diseases, with an estimated 3 million diagnosed specifically with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?  Despite the prevalence of these conditions, the conventional approach to digestive issues and IBD often falls short, focusing primarily on symptom management rather than addressing the root causes.  Which is why in this week’s podcast we are joined by Holistic Nutritionist and IBD specialist, Dane Johnson, who has dedicated his career to revolutionizing how we understand and treat gut health.  Dane healed his own life-threatening IBD and advocates for a holistic approach that integrates diet, lifestyle, and cutting-edge research.  In today's episode, Dane shares his comprehensive strategy for healing gut issues like IBD. His story is incredible and his wisdom is truly inspiring and here are some of the fascinating topics we delve into:  The commonly overlooked key to healing his gut issues The protocol he used to heal his life-threatening IBD Symptoms you may have IBD, Crohn's or UC The most important variable for healing  How IBD is diagnosed (which antibodies you need to check) The diet that he started to catalyze: the healing process The 2 nutrients you need to be careful with when you have gut issues The infection that hinders stomach acid (and how to fix it) The 4 little-known underlying causes of IBD  The 2 organs you need to focus on before beginning a healing protocol 2 simple at-home tricks to expedite healing  2 foods to eliminate as a first step His 4 favorite fats for gut healing and so much more! Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or simply interested in gut health, this conversation promises to be eye-opening and transformative. Please let me know what you think in the comments below and share with anyone you think may benefit. VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Beef Sticks >>> Improve your Microbiome Health with Paleovalley Fermented Grass Fed Beef Sticks + Save up to 20% HERE!  S.H.I.E.L.D by ChrohnsColitisLifestyle >>> Book your Complimentary Session with an IBD Support Specialist HERE!  

IN THIS EPISODE According to Dr. Knobbe, at the end of the American Civil War: Only about 1% of the population was obese Heart disease was almost unheard of Cancer and diabetes were exceedingly rare Alzheimer’s and age-related macular degeneration were unknown In other words, chronic disease was rare in America, which is not the case today. Although animal fats, sugar, and carbohydrates often take the blame for our rising disease rates, Dr. Knobbe's new book, The Ancestral Diet Revolution, argues that the real dietary villains are the vegetable oils that have replaced traditional animal fats. Tune in to this week’s podcast to uncover why seed oils might be more critical to avoid than sugar, along with these fascinating insights: What seed oils were used for before they became food Why sugar consumption (and maybe even carbs) may be less dangerous than seed oils The two mechanisms by which vegetable oils cause issues in the body What OXLAMS are and why they should concern us How vegetable oils can lead to fatigue and weight gain What to eat on a truly ancestral diet How to choose healthful animal products And so much more! Dr. Knobbe’s extensive research into this subject blew me away, and I sincerely hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I did. VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Grass Fed Beef Tallow >>> Try Nutrient-Dense, Ancestral Cooking Fat with Paleovalley’s Grass Fed Beef Tallow + Save up to 20% HERE! Chris Knobbe — Ancestral Health Foundation >>> Learn more about Dr. Knobbe’s work + Download your FREE summary of his latest book HERE!  

Today, the prevalence of mental health issues among kids is on the rise, and traditional therapies don’t work for everyone.  Which is why this week’s podcast with Dr. Pejman Katiraei explores the hidden factors (diet, gene mutations, environmental exposures) that may be contributing to this rise.  Dr. K, is a board-certified pediatrician and passionate advocate who has created an AI platform, Wholistic Minds, to help families find the root causes and effective solutions. Here are some of the fascinating topics we dive into: - Uncommon signs your child may be struggling - The limitations of conventional therapy - The common gene mutation that can cause mental health issues in kids - Underlying causes of ADHD - Biological causes of depression - Biological causes of anxiety - Signs that mold may be an issue for your child - An underlying factor in sensory issues and tics - Foods that can exacerbate mental health issues - Why starting with food does not always work - How to test for mold issues in kids - How to get to the root cause of your mental health issues - And much more! This is truly an inspiring, empowering and heart-warming condition so please share this information with anyone you think may benefit and thank you for listening! Valuable Resources Paleovalley Beef Sticks>>> Give your kids the perfect chemical-free, healthy snack with Grass Fed Paleovalley Beef sticks + get up to 20% off HERE! Wholistic Minds by Dr. Pejman Katiraei >>> Discover how you and your child can create optimal mood, focus, and concentration HERE!  

IN THIS EPISODE Organ meats are some of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world, but research has also shown they contain specialized nutrients that may extend the length and quality of our lives.  So if you’re interested in aging gracefully, tune into this week’s podcast with certified holistic nutritionist and epigenetics coach, Nat Niddam for a fascinating conversation! Here’s what we’ll be diving into: The difference between biological and chronological age 2 ways to measure your biological age How to measure your rate of aging Steps to reducing your biological age 4 factors that increase the rate of aging in pretty much everyone 4 ways to slow down your rate of aging The major mistake most people make when trying to slow the aging process The best way to lengthen telomeres The history of bioregulators Experiments validating the benefits of bioregulators Which bioregulators to use A great fasting rhythm for women And so much more! I learned so much during this episode so tune in and let me know what you think! VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Organ Complex >>> Click HERE to try three organs in one capsule with Paleovalley’s Grass Fed Organ Complex at up to 20% off TODAY! Nat Niddem + Bioregulators >>> Learn More about Nat Niddem & Bioregulators HERE!  

INSIDE THE EPISODE You’ve likely heard that polyunsaturated fats (omega-3’s and omega-6’s) are essential for health, but what you might now know is that the balance between them is equally as important.  In fact, over the last few decades our intake of the omega-6 fatty acid, linoleic acid (yes, the one found in seed oils) has increased dramatically while our intake of omega-3’s has dwindled.  Which means most Americans today - have a very imbalanced omega ratio. According to this week’s podcast expert, author and zoologist, Dr. Anthony Hulbert, who has been studying the omega balance for decades, this is likely one reason rates of inflammation, heart disease, obesity and mental health issues are on the rise.  His book was one of my all-time favorites and I highly, highly recommend you tune in now to learn more about the surprising and well-documented effects of this widespread imbalance and what you can do to improve yours! Here are some of my favorite takeaways: One major oversight in America’s dietary guidelines The different roles, health benefits and effects of omega-3’s and omega-6’s Why animal fats are high in monounsaturated and saturated fats The sources of omega-6’s and 3’s The problem with omega-3 research The link between omega-6’s and insulin resistance The type of high-fat diets that makes rodents gain weight (and the type that doesn’t) 3 ways too many omega-6’s cause weight gain The link between omega-3’s and mental health Why what meat ate matters And so much more! Please take the time to share this important information with everyone you know and love.   VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Fish Roe >>> Experience the benefits of Omega-3s with Wild Caught Fish Roe + Get up to 20% off HERE! Omega Balance by Dr. Anthony Hulbert >>> Learn how to live a happier, healthier life by finding the right balance of omega fatty acids HERE!

IN THIS EPISODE Once I turned 40, it seemed like my skin started to tell the story of time.  And while I've always been a champion of clean eating and staying active, I've discovered that the journey to radiant skin doesn't stop there. It's an adventure, filled with simple strategies and daily rituals that can elevate our skin to new heights of radiance. That's why I'm beyond thrilled to share this week's podcast episode with the phenomenal Rachel Varga.  Imagine having a treasure map to the fountain of youthful skin - well, Rachel is here to draw that map for us.  As a Double Board Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist and the go-to skin guru for celebrities (even Dave Asprey sings her praises!) Rachel unlocks the secrets to glowing skin in this week’s episode. Here’s what you’ll learn… The five archenemies of youthful skin  The magical benefits of light therapy, including the colors that with the most benefits How to protect your kingdom (aka your skin) from blue light  Her arsenal of favorite skin lasers - and the ones to leave in the dark ages  The truth behind the mystique of derma rollers  Tricky skin gimmicks to beware of  A five-step skincare ritual that will enhance your skin’s radiance The foods your skin is better off without And the deceptively simple secret that banished my breakouts  If you're ready for the ultimate skin upgrade check it out and let me know what your favorite takeaway is in the comments below.   VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Grass Fed Bone Broth>>> Click HERE to try Collagen-Rich Paleovalley Bone Broth Protein + SAVE up to 20% TODAY! Rachel Varga - The School of Radiance>>> Get your FREE Skincare Resources + Learn how to get one-on-one guidance from Rachel HERE! use code: PODCAST15 for 15% off your skincare consultation

IN THIS EPISODE In a world where nutrient deficiencies are rampant and elimination diets can increase your risk, a focus on nutrient-dense foods is critically important.  Unfortunately, there are MAJOR problems with many of the nutrient ratings systems used today.  Case in point: The Food Compass which gave Lucky Charms a higher score than ground beef and eggs fried in butter.  Which is why in today’s podcast with best-selling author Dr. Sarah Ballantyne we break down the myths around most nutrient rating systems, the truth about the most nutrient-dense foods in the world, and most importantly, how to add them to your diet so you can feel your best. Here are some of the fascinating facts you’ll learn… Why restrictive diets can be problematic The rates and causes of nutrient deficiency The most dangerous type of nutrient deficiency How to measure the nutrient density of your diet at home Can supplements replace food? The most surprising, yet nutrient-dense, foods The most nutrient-dense vegetables The nutrient powerhouse you are not likely consuming (but should) Why increasing protein as you age is important What her daily diet looks like Volume eating - and how it can help you lose weight The optimal level of vegetable servings per day And so much more! This conversation is so insightful that I hope you love it as much as I did and share it with anyone you know it could benefit. VALUABLE RESOURCES Paleovalley Superfood Bars >>> Click HERE to try Paleovalley Superfood Protein Bars packed with 23 Superfoods + SAVE up to 20% TODAY! Dr. Sarah Ballantyne - Nutrivore >>> Get 5 FREE Nutrivore Guides direct to your inbox when you sign up HERE!