The Diet Doctor

In this episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, I explore one of the most misunderstood areas of nutrition: the obsession with calories and macros over micronutrients - and why it could be costing you your health. We dive into the core message behind the phrase #CountNutrientsNotCalories, and why focusing on the quality of your food is far more impactful than the numbers on a label. From the thermic effect of food to the misleading nature of processed calorie counts, I break down the science behind what your body actually absorbs—and how it reacts. You’ll learn why not all calories are equal, how fibre, antioxidants and whole foods can radically change your health outcomes, and why vitamin and mineral deficiencies are more widespread than you think—even in Australia. We also discuss the importance of proper supplementation, why the delivery method of nutrients matters, and how even fitness influencers are unintentionally spreading harmful messages. Whether you're a coach, athlete, parent or just someone trying to eat better, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and practical tools to help you optimise your nutrition from the inside out. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: The calorie conversation in schools & the rise of nutrition misinformation 00:03:00 – Why calories aren’t equal: Soda vs. avocado 00:06:00 – Thermic effect of food: Homemade meals vs. fast food 00:10:00 – Why processed food still dominates despite being nutritionally void 00:15:00 – Labels lie: The truth behind ingredient lists and front-of-pack claims 00:20:00 – What micronutrients really are & why they matter 00:25:00 – The dangers of deficiency: Iron, vitamin D, zinc & more 00:30:00 – Smart supplementation: What to take and how to take it 00:35:00 – Immune function, hormonal health & disease prevention 00:40:00 – How to build a nutrient-rich diet using colours and whole foods 00:45:00 – The power of positive thinking, antioxidants & cellular health 00:50:00 – Final thoughts: Prioritising quality over quantity for lifelong vitality For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, I sit down with Dr Ned Khatib, chiropractor to elite athletes and global performers, to explore the world of high-performance health, peak recovery, and the profound impact of chiropractic care. Dr Ned shares powerful stories from treating WWE wrestlers, WBC boxers and even Justin Bieber—who performed in Melbourne with a broken ankle thanks to intensive around-the-clock care. We delve into the debate over chiropractic efficacy, the misunderstood role of allied health disciplines, and why collaboration between physios, podiatrists, nutritionists and chiros is essential for holistic health. We also uncover the lesser-known miracles of chiropractic—from a young boy’s life transformed by addressing bedwetting and tics, to how intuitive treatment and evidence-based methods can heal not just the body but the mind. Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or simply passionate about improving health, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways for living and performing at your best. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: Why outdated research is hurting health professionals 00:02:00 – How Dr Ned helped Justin Bieber perform with a broken ankle 00:04:00 – The debate around chiropractic care: myth vs reality 00:07:00 – Working with WWE, WBC & elite combat athletes 00:10:00 – The importance of soft tissue work & tailored treatments 00:13:00 – Which combat sport is hardest on the body? 00:16:00 – Why modern athletes are easier to treat 00:20:00 – Treating children and babies: gentle, precise and effective 00:23:00 – Collaborating with physios, podiatrists, GPs & naturopaths 00:28:00 – One adjustment, one miracle: the 13-year-old who stopped wetting the bed 00:32:00 – Psychology in practice: treating the whole person 00:35:00 – Nutrition, gut health, and getting a new skeleton every 10 years 00:40:00 – Movement vs gym time: what really matters as you age 00:44:00 – Men's retreats, recovery & self-care as a practitioner 00:47:00 – Final thoughts: read your body, respect your limits, and keep an open mind For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this special Eid edition of the Diet Doctor podcast, we reflect on the profound spiritual, cultural and nutritional significance of the sacred ritual of Qurban. Drawing from the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), we explore how this annual act of devotion goes beyond sacrifice—serving as a reminder of empathy, charity, gratitude, and nourishment. We break down the unique nutritional benefits of meats like lamb, goat, beef and camel, and why quality matters—especially when feeding those in need. From discussing the power of community sharing to reducing food waste and embracing moderation, this episode is packed with timeless wisdom and practical tools for both the body and soul. Whether you celebrate Eid or simply seek to better align your health with purpose and compassion, this episode offers a holistic look at living well—physically, spiritually, and communally. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: Celebrating faith, community and nourishment 00:01:10 – The story of Prophet Ibrahim & the origins of Qurban 00:02:40 – Charity, empathy, and why Qurban meat is more than a meal 00:04:00 – Nutritional value of Qurban meats: Lamb, goat, beef & camel 00:07:00 – The only time of year some get to eat meat: Why quality matters 00:09:00 – Grass-fed vs. grain-fed: Understanding fats & nutrients 00:11:30 – Cooking for health: How to maximise nutrition at Eid 00:13:00 – Add fibre, greens & whole grains to balance the plate 00:15:00 – Reducing food waste: The Islamic view on excess 00:18:00 – Why animals don't overconsume—but humans do 00:20:00 – The deeper spiritual lessons of Eid: Kinship & forgiveness 00:23:00 – Practical tips for healthful eating & sharing during Eid 00:25:00 – Legacy, gratitude & embodying the Prophet’s example 00:27:00 – Final thoughts: Nourish the body and soul, year-round For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this powerful and deeply reflective episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, we dive into the profound connection between Islamic tradition and modern science, exploring how prophetic teachings offer timeless solutions to today’s health crises. From the spiritual power of fasting to the metabolic miracles of prophetic nutrition, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking holistic wellbeing. We unpack how fasting isn’t just a spiritual obligation, but a tool to conquer the ego, recalibrate the body, and raise consciousness. You’ll discover why Mondays and Thursdays are ideal for fasting, how proper sleep and hydration can reverse biological ageing, and why sitting while eating is more than just etiquette—it’s neuro-gastro health. We also explore the science behind prophetic foods like Talbina and dairy, the emotional depth of charity in Islam, and the power of sleep and diet in achieving cognitive and spiritual clarity. If you’ve ever felt like you’ve stagnated post-Ramadan or want to better align your lifestyle with your faith, this episode offers both the wake-up call and the roadmap. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – The spiritual cost of soft drinks & the developed world’s health delusions 00:01:10 – Fasting after Ramadan: From reset to regression or renaissance? 00:03:20 – The essence of khushu' and presence in everyday life 00:06:20 – Why true fasting leads to physical, cognitive and spiritual enhancement 00:08:25 – The ego, humility & breaking the nafs through fasting 00:10:56 – Prophetic traditions: Eating posture, portion control & gluttony 00:14:42 – How modern science confirms the Sunnah of nutrition 00:18:23 – Gluttony, sin, and why food is a spiritual gateway 00:20:03 – The psychology of empathy and the levels of the self (nafs) 00:24:24 – Charity’s spiritual weight: Quranic emphasis & Prophetic insight 00:27:12 – How fasting helps break excess in a consumerist culture 00:29:06 – Arabic vs English: The challenge of expressing spiritual depth 00:31:10 – Tarbiyah: The art of raising not just children, but the soul 00:33:07 – Sleep: The hidden factor behind ageing, clarity & vitality 00:36:22 – The melatonin-serotonin link and how diet drives deep sleep 00:38:14 – Talbina: Prophetic prescription for grief, vitality & healing 00:40:20 – Scientific evidence: Why dairy is key to leanness & sleep 00:43:07 – Water, coffee & the myths of hydration 00:45:16 – The deadly truth about soft drinks and lifespan 00:47:21 – Stop blaming God: Discipline, diet & divine accountability 00:48:01 – “You are what you eat”: Not metaphor, but biology 00:49:29 – Faniya: Shedding 3.6kg of skin annually & the temporality of life 00:51:23 – “Every soul shall taste death”: The anatomy of a Quranic verse 00:54:24 – Nourishment, death & the ultimate return to your Creator For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this powerful episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, I sit down with former WBA Oceania and IBF Australasian champion Billel Dib to unpack his inspiring journey through the world of professional boxing, and how faith, discipline, and family values have guided him every step of the way. Billel opens up about the brutal realities of life as a boxer—grueling weight cuts, late-night comfort eating, and the relentless pressure of performance. He also reflects on what it was like training in elite American gyms, earning the respect of world-ranked fighters, and navigating the temptations of fame while holding firm to his religious values. We discuss how Billel transitioned from elite athlete to successful business owner, the importance of staying healthy post-retirement, and his passion for being a role model for young athletes and his own children. If you're into sport, personal development, or simply want to hear how discipline and faith can shape an extraordinary life, this one's a must-listen. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: Billel’s early life and unwavering commitment to faith 00:05:00 – The meaning behind the boxing titles and rankings 00:10:00 – The politics of boxing and federation dynamics 00:15:00 – Billel’s toughest fight & the in-ring mindset shift that changed everything 00:20:00 – Cutting weight: comfort eating, sugar cravings & evolving nutrition strategies 00:25:00 – Camp nutrition, meal planning & intuitive eating as a retired athlete 00:30:00 – How Billel maintains elite fitness post-career 00:35:00 – Raising health-conscious kids by leading through example 00:40:00 – The boxing scene in Australia: growth, talent & global credibility 00:45:00 – Training in the US: Respect, rivalries & fighting for your place 00:50:00 – Longevity in combat sports: Smart training vs. macho mentality 01:00:00 – Legacy, purpose & leaving a positive mark on youth For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this powerful episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, we explore the urgent issue of falling nutritional standards and how it's impacting our children's health. From screen addiction and processed foods to cognitive and behavioural disorders, the modern world is waging war on child development — and it's time to fight back. The Diet Doctor unpacks the sobering statistic that a child's brain is 85% developed by age three, underscoring just how critical early nutrition is. He discusses how ultra-processed snacks, low-fat products, and sugar-laden diets are contributing to stunted growth, ADHD, obesity, and long-term physical and psychological damage. We also look at the Japanese model of school nutrition, the importance of micronutrients, and the concept of teaching kids to reconnect with real, whole foods. Plus, hear about remarkable cases where simple dietary changes led to transformative improvements in children’s cognitive function and emotional regulation. If you're a parent, teacher, carer, or anyone who wants to raise healthy kids — physically, emotionally, and mentally — this episode is a must-listen. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: The false promise of low-fat, low-sugar foods 00:01:20 – How technology is advancing but health is regressing 00:02:15 – Food, cognition and the rise of behavioural disorders 00:03:06 – The Arabic concept of tarbiyah and holistic child development 00:04:20 – Why early childhood nutrition is everything 00:06:09 – Fragility in modern children vs resilience in the past 00:07:11 – Screen addiction, snack culture & sensory overload 00:08:43 – Japan’s gold standard: Every school has a nutritionist 00:10:01 – Toxic pantries: Why your fridge should contain food, not snacks 00:10:26 – What a healthy diet for a child really looks like 00:12:46 – The breakfast crisis: Why 2/3 of kids go to school hungry 00:13:08 – Whole foods vs edible substances 00:14:12 – NDIS case study: Diet change and cognitive breakthroughs 00:16:06 – Why we must value nutrition even more than exercise 00:17:02 – Rewiring tastebuds and retraining food preferences 00:18:17 – Nutrient cravings & the body’s changing needs over time 00:20:21 – Learning to love simple, single-ingredient foods 00:21:53 – Childhood obesity in Australia: 85% of kids under 5 are overweight 00:22:48 – 200kg in Year 9: Shocking school consultation insights 00:23:58 – The dangers of rapid weight fluctuation & psychological scars 00:25:36 – Final message: Unhealthy world, but raising healthy kids is our duty For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, I dive deep into why modern nutrition is fundamentally broken — and how misinformation, marketing, and industry influence have turned the food pyramid upside down. We explore how corporations, not science, shaped the health guidelines we grew up believing, the dangerous consequences of trusting biased nutritional studies, and the rise of chronic diseases driven by processed foods, refined sugars, and misinformation. I also break down how AI is corrupting academic research, why most supermarket “health foods” are anything but healthy, and why we must return to simplicity and ancestral eating habits to rebuild true health. If you're passionate about improving your health, cutting through the noise, and learning how to nourish yourself and your family properly, this episode is packed with must-know insights! Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: How industry has hijacked our understanding of nutrition 00:02:00 – The dark history of pharmaceuticals, medicine, and how trust was exploited 00:06:00 – The rise of misinformation and why we must validate everything 00:09:00 – AI’s dangerous influence on modern research and academic trustworthiness 00:12:00 – The ASICs case study: How corporate funding skews “science” 00:19:00 – Food fads, insulin resistance, and the real roots of our health crisis 00:22:00 – The cereal industry and the truth about the food pyramid 00:28:00 – Why women must eat more calories than they think (and how hormones react) 00:32:00 – Fibre myths, food label traps, and the hidden dangers of “health foods” 00:38:00 – How toxic ingredients in food sabotage your health beyond the meal 00:40:00 – Understanding how knowledge is controlled by materialistic interests 00:42:00 – The solution: Returning to simplicity and prophetic eating principles 00:46:00 – Lessons from traditional diets: Okinawa, Greenland, Spain, and South Korea 00:48:00 – Why it’s 100% nutrition, 100% training, and 100% recovery — all or nothing For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this powerful solo episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, I reveal the untold truth about the açaí craze—and why what’s marketed as a health food is actually doing more harm than good. From long queues at food trucks to a container of Brazilian pulp arriving on Aussie shores, this episode marks the official launch of Açaí Zero—a first-of-its-kind, genuinely healthy açaí soft serve, with zero added sugar and zero compromise. I share the deeply personal journey behind its creation: the countless hours in the kitchen, the research into preservatives and emulsifiers, and the staggering cost—financial and emotional—of staying true to health-first values. You'll hear why we need to redefine what it means to snack smart in a society plagued by poor nutrition, rising childhood obesity, and misleading “health food” marketing. Açaí Zero is about more than just taste—it’s about giving people of all ages, especially kids, a cleaner, better source of energy, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Developed by nutritionist Dr Diet Moodi Dennaoui, this superfood soft serve is designed for athletes, wellness lovers, and parents who want the best for their families. Proudly Australian and committed to sustainability, Açaí Zero is made from the finest single origin berries—because your body deserves the best. If you're a parent, a health-conscious eater, or an aspiring food entrepreneur, this is a must-listen. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: From sunlight to sugary snacks – why I created Açaí Zero 00:01:30 – The early days: Nutrition Station, café life & falling out of love with açaí 00:05:00 – The class that sparked the idea & the challenge of finding real açaí 00:08:00 – The açaí con: What’s actually in that bowl? 00:11:00 – Pulp grades, percentages & why quality matters 00:14:00 – Chemicals, colours, emulsifiers: The health nightmare hidden in açaí 00:17:00 – Building a formula with no compromise—taste, texture, & true nutrition 00:20:00 – Fibre, carbs, and why sugar-free doesn’t mean healthy 00:23:00 – What Australia gets wrong about organic food 00:25:00 – The food industry, shelf life & why we’re not taught to read labels 00:28:00 – Gulf Food Expo: How Açaí Zero went global 00:30:00 – The deadly sugar-insulin link & the child obesity crisis 00:33:00 – Real change: Why it starts with what we eat daily 00:36:00 – Açaí Zero vs. dessert: The toppings trap exposed 00:39:00 – Final stats, wrap-up & an invitation to innovate Check out Acaí Goodness. Zero Compromise, on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acaizer0/ For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this solo episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, we explore the cultural secrets behind some of the world’s healthiest nations—Sweden, South Korea, and Spain—and what they can teach us about effortless, sustainable health. We break down fascinating global stats and shares the simple, yet powerful habits that set these countries apart. From the Swedes’ love for outdoor living and fermented foods, to the Korean philosophy of banchan—filling your plate with vegetables before anything else, to the Spanish tradition of not eating after 8pm—this episode dives deep into the lifestyle choices that lead to better bone density, gut health, sleep, and longevity. This is a wake-up call for anyone tired of rigid diet plans and endless calorie counting. Instead, it’s about real lifestyle change—eating with intention, living with movement, and timing your days for optimal health. If you’re ready to simplify your health journey and adopt habits that actually stick, this episode is a must-listen. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: Global health is declining—but not everywhere 00:01:30 – The case for lifestyle over dieting 00:04:00 – How food becomes your bones, muscles, and mood 00:06:00 – Why recovery is where progress really happens 00:10:00 – Long-term health vs. short-term weight loss goals 00:13:00 – Spotlight on Sweden: Outdoor living & fermented foods 00:18:00 – Everyday exercise: Walking, not working out 00:22:00 – Gut-brain connection & emotional eating 00:26:00 – Korea’s “banchan” approach: Veg-first eating 00:29:00 – Fermented foods, diversity in gut health 00:31:00 – The Spanish timing method: No food after 8pm 00:34:00 – Sleep, hydration & metabolism explained 00:38:00 – Surprising stats on steps, sleep, and slow eating 00:41:00 – The communal mindset around food in healthy cultures 00:44:00 – Final takeaways: Three habits to transform your health 00:46:00 – Walk like the Swedes, eat like the Koreans, time like the Spanish 00:48:00 – No need to wait till Monday—start today! For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au

In this episode of the Diet Doctor podcast, we dive deep into one of the most overlooked aspects of health—sleep. We explore how your diet, hormones, and lifestyle choices directly impact sleep quality and why poor sleep can lead to metabolic disorders, weight gain, and even chronic diseases. We discuss the circadian rhythm, the hormonal effects of sleep deprivation (ghrelin, leptin, and insulin resistance), and how a lack of sleep increases cravings for high-calorie foods. Plus, we break down why quality matters more than quantity when it comes to sleep, and how simple lifestyle adjustments—like food choices, light exposure, and even naps—can radically improve sleep quality. If you've ever struggled with low energy, poor recovery, or weight issues, this episode will provide practical, science-backed strategies to optimise your sleep and overall health. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: The importance of sleep as an investment 00:05:00 – How sleep deprivation affects metabolism & cravings 00:10:00 – The link between poor sleep and weight gain 00:15:00 – How to optimise circadian rhythm for better sleep 00:20:00 – The role of hormones: Ghrelin, leptin & insulin resistance 00:25:00 – The ideal sleep duration & why timing matters 00:30:00 – Afternoon naps: A game-changer for recovery 00:35:00 – Nutrition for sleep: The foods that improve rest 00:40:00 – The impact of blue light & how to counteract it 00:50:00 – Final thoughts: Holistic health & the sleep-diet connection For premium prepped meals, check out: http://Mealsbymoodi.com.au For high-quality nutrients & supplements, check out: http://MoodUp.com.au