Fork U: The new podcast by Dr. Terry Simpson

The Benefits of Whole Grains in Your DietI want to take you back in time. While we talk about the Mediterranean diet not being a diet of culture but a pattern of eating – it still had its origins in the Mediterranean.The original Mediterranean diet was described as far back as 500 BC in the Ilead. The ancient Greeks ate whole grains, fruits, vegetables, pulses, and a bit of fish. Red meat was rare.While red meat may not have been a dietary staple for the Ancient Greeks, it was consumed during feasts, festivals, and special occasions.Cows were considered sacred gods, like Zeus, and their slaughter was for religious ceremonies and consumed during feastsThe majority of the population received protein from fish, poultry, legumes, and whole grains.The First OlympicsThis was the diet of the first Olympians, as well as the Romans. Ancient Greeks worshiped the body, as you can see from the statues, as well as our language.We get the word gym from the Greek word “gymnasion," which translates to a place to exercise naked. But those gyms not only had a place to train but also schools, where literature, philosophy, math, and music were taught, as well as a social gathering place.We also get Diet from the Greeks, which originates from “diaita,” meaning the “way of life” or a manner of living. The Greeks had a balanced approach to health and well-being, emphasizing diet, exercise, and the mind.Gym bros and bro science were yet to be invented.Ancient GrainsCould those Olympians of old who ate diets filled with whole-grain cereals have been wrong? Or could it be that those grains of the past were different from today’s grains?If you’ve ever been on a “low carb” diet, one of the first food groups you eliminate are grains.As you dutifully got rid of the last bit of joy in your life, you feel it was the cost to have your weight drop.You might have thought – "Grains are evil."Low Carb Life Without GrainsEating burgers without the bun, breakfast without toast, no pastries, no bread, no pasta, no rice, and you were losing weight. Lots of confirmation bias.Oh those heady early days of a low carb diet, losing weight, feeling better, maybe even noticing cholesterol improved. Hard to sustain though, and did you ever get tired of steak?Finding Joy in the Mediterranean DietNow you come here and find the best diet is the Mediterranean diet. Lots of peer reviewed literature to support it.Then you wondered what in grains was evil. The first easy thought was that it all breaks down to glucose, and glucose is evil.Unless you know biochemistry and realize no, that’s not it. Your body runs on glucose.It's the GlutenAnd maybe you read about celiac disease and gluten as its trigger. Maybe some blogger convinced you that wheat in America is filled with gluten, and this is the problem.Unable to sustain a low-carb diet, you return to the joy of the morning pastry or dessert, all the while thinking grains are what caused the weight to return.Now you come to the Mediterranean Diet, and whole grains, not refined grains, are on the menu.Still, you are suspicious, and you think – maybe it was the gluten.Celiac DiseaseOr what happens if you come to the Mediterranean diet and have Celiac disease and gluten causes horrific issues?But should we all avoid gluten? And can we have a Mediterranean diet if we must be gluten-free?Should the ancient Greeks become Carnivores instead of those grizzly men who are on a diet now associated with the healthiest people on planet Earth?Clearly not. Eating too much red meat is associated with increasing heart disease and cancer, while the Mediterranean diet is associated with less heart disease and cancer.Carnivore's TakeCarnivores like pointing to the ancient...

Learn to Cook FishFish is not only a healthy option but also a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a myriad of mouthwatering dishes. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or looking to expand your culinary repertoire, mastering the art of cooking fish can elevate your cooking skills to new heights. In this article, we'll explore the techniques and recipes to create delicious fish dishes that will impress even the most discerning palates.Cooking Methods:Grilling: Grilling fish over an open flame adds a smoky flavor and beautiful charred marks. Brush the fish with oil to prevent sticking, and cook for a few minutes on each side until opaque and flaky.Baking: Baking fish in the oven is a simple and foolproof method. Place seasoned fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish.Pan-Searing: Pan-searing fish in a hot skillet creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the fish and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.Steaming: Steaming fish is a healthy cooking method that preserves its delicate flavor and texture. Place seasoned fish fillets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 6-8 minutes until cooked through.Delicious Fish Recipes:Now that you're familiar with the basics of preparing and cooking fish let's explore some mouthwatering recipes to try at home:Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon: Marinate salmon fillets in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.Baked Cod with Garlic Butter: Place cod fillets in a baking dish and top with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until flaky and tender.Pan-Seared Sea Bass with Mango Salsa: Season sea bass fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Serve with a refreshing mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice.For more great recipes, see terrysimpson.com.

Health Benefits of Fish ConsumptionFish consumption has been linked to various health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile.  The health benefits of fish consumption include cardiovascular health, brain function, and well-being. Because fish are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, they are an important part of a balanced diet.Fish, the Most Ancestral FoodFish has long been recognized as a valuable source of essential nutrients beneficial for human health. Seafood is a staple part of the diet across different cultures and regions.  Since most of the first human communities were coastal, fish were a common source of food.Cardiovascular Health Exceeds RiskRegular fish intake reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease and stroke (Mozaffarian & Rimm, 2006).  That study showed that the benefits of fish intake exceed the potential risks. Even for women of childbearing age, the benefits of modest fish intake, excepting a few selected species, also outweigh the risks.  The heart health effect comes from the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) found abundantly in fatty fish species (Kris-Etherton et al., 2002). These fatty acids exert anti-inflammatory, antiarrhythmic, and vasodilatory effects, lowering blood pressure and triglyceride levels and reducing the formation of blood clots (Calder, 2015).Brain FunctionFish consumption has also been associated with improved cognitive (brain) function and a reduced risk of brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA play a crucial role in brain health (Gómez-Pinilla, 2008). Epidemiological studies have consistently shown a positive correlation between higher fish consumption and better memory (ref). Moreover, research suggests early-life exposure to seafood has long-term brain benefits and decreases age-related cognitive decline (Wurtman et al., 2009).Nutrient Profile, Such as Vitamin DBut omega-3 fatty acids are not the only benefit of eating fish. Fish are also a rich source of various essential nutrients vital for human health. Vitamin D, in particular, is naturally abundant in fatty fish and plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation (Holick, 2007).  These include high-quality protein, vitamins (such as vitamin D and B-complex vitamins), and minerals (such as selenium, iodine, and zinc) (Kris-Etherton et al., 2002). Furthermore, the bioavailability of these nutrients from fish is superior to other dietary sources, including supplements.  Thus, fish consumption is an efficient means of meeting nutritional requirements (Rosell & Appleby, 2006).Fish FarmsAquaculture, the farming of fish and aquatic organisms, has undergone significant advancements in recent years, leading to improvements in sustainability, efficiency, and product quality. Fish Farms have had significant problems in the past.  In the last fifteen years, there has been an improvement in environmental management strategies and sustainable farming practices.Those practices have changed my mind about seafood. Consequently, you can now buy quality farm-raised seafood, which adheres to the high standards of any food. Hence, I now recommend some...

Three Great DietsThe Mediterranean diet, the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), and the MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) are all great eating patterns. Each diet focuses on different aspects of health. Mediterranean DietThe Mediterranean diet comes from the traditional dietary patterns of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain. High in the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, olive oil, fish, and moderate amounts of poultry, dairy, and red wine. Shown to decrease the risk of heart disease and cancer and to improve longevity.DASH DietDiscussed in last week's podcast (ref). DASH (Dietary approach to stop hypertension) was developed to prevent and manage hypertension (high blood pressure). Focuses on increasing intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products while limiting sodium, saturated fats, and cholesterol.MIND DietDeveloped by researchers at Rush University Medical Center as a hybrid of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, with a focus on brain health and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease. It also emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, fish, poultry, and beans while limiting the intake of red meat, butter/margarine, cheese, pastries/sweets, and fried/fast foods. Three Diets are Branches of the Same TreeThe Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets share some common elements. All focus on whole foods and plant-based sources of nutrients. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes health and longevity. While the DASH diet targets hypertension and cardiovascular health. Finally, the MIND diet specifically supports brain health to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.1. Rush Memory and Aging Project:A study conducted by researchers at Rush University Medical Center followed over 900 older adults for an average of 4.5 years. Findings showed that individuals who closely adhered to the MIND diet had a substantially lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, with a reduction in risk ranging from 21% to 53%, depending on the level of adherence. (ref )2. Columbia University Medical Center Study:Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center examined the dietary habits of over 1,000 participants. Individuals who closely followed the MIND diet had a 53% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease than those with low adherence to the diet.3. Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI):The ADNI study found that adherence to the MIND diet was associated with better cognitive performance and a reduced rate of cognitive decline over time.4. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses:Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have summarized the findings of multiple studies investigating the association between the MIND diet and dementia risk.  Overall, these reviews reveal that adherence to the MIND diet is associated with a significant reduction in Alzheimer's disease and dementia.5. Mechanisms of Action:Components of the MIND diet, such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, fish, olive oil, and poultry, have been linked to improved cognitive function and a lower risk of dementia.More research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of the MIND diet.  Current evidence suggests that...

Abstract:The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is a widely recognized dietary pattern designed to lower blood pressure and promote cardiovascular health. I will attempt to provide an in-depth review of the DASH diet, its origins, key principles, health benefits, and potential limitations. It also explores the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy and applicability in various populations. Furthermore, this paper discusses practical considerations for adopting the DASH diet and its potential future developments in the field of nutrition and health.1. IntroductionThe DASH diet, or Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, is a dietary plan primarily developed to combat hypertension (high blood pressure). DASH has since gained recognition for its broader health benefits. Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke. Therefore, the DASH diet is essential to reducing these health risks.2. Origins and DevelopmentThe National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) developed the DASH diet in a study known as the DASH-Sodium Study. The primary objective of the DASH-Sodium study was to investigate the effect of dietary patterns on blood pressure, in particular, the effects of sodium intake. Researchers aimed to design a diet that could effectively lower blood pressure without medication. The DASH diet emerged from this study as a dietary pattern rich in nutrients and low in sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol. 3. Key Principles of the DASH DietThe DASH diet emphasizes the consumption of nutrient-rich foods while limiting the intake of sodium, saturated fats, and cholesterol. Key principles of the DASH diet include: High Consumption of Fruits and Vegetables: The diet encourages individuals to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, providing essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.Lean Protein Sources: Lean proteins like poultry, fish, and plant-based options such as beans, lentils, and tofu are recommended to replace high-fat animal proteins.Whole Grains: The DASH diet emphasizes whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat, oats, and quinoa, which are rich in fiber and nutrients.Dairy: Low-fat or fat-free dairy products are included to provide calcium and protein without excess saturated fat.Nuts, Seeds, and Legumes: These foods are encouraged as sources of healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein.Limited Sweets and Sugary Beverages: The DASH diet restricts the consumption of sugary foods and beverages, reducing the intake of added sugars.Sodium Restriction: The diet recommends limiting sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day (or 1,500 milligrams for individuals with hypertension, certain chronic conditions, or those at high risk).4. Health Benefits of the DASH DietThe DASH diet offers a range of health benefits beyond blood pressure reduction:Lowering Blood Pressure: Numerous studies have shown that the DASH diet can effectively lower blood pressure, particularly in individuals with hypertension.Cardiovascular Health: The diet is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions due to its focus on heart-healthy nutrients and reduced saturated fat intake.Weight Management: The DASH diet can help weight loss and weight management due to its emphasis on nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods.Improved Lipid Profile: The diet can lower levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and improve HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), further reducing the risk of heart disease.Diabetes Management: The DASH diet may help individuals with diabetes manage blood sugar levels, as it encourages a balanced intake of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein 5. Scientific...

Did You Try the Carnivore Diet?Did you try the carnivore in January? A month of red meat, eggs, and butter? If you did, you probably lost weight.  If you lost weight, you felt better. The Carnivore crowd will point to weight loss as proof of superiority.But did you worry that this might not be the healthiest diet for you long-term?  Is it healthy? In short, the answer is no.Perhaps you remember on a previous podcast, we talked about the beer and sausage diet. On that diet, Evo, the pod god who distributes this podcast, lost weight every month he was on the diet. In addition, his weekly lab work -sorry for all the jabs Evo - improved every week he was on the diet.Could you argue that drinking beer and eating sausage is a good diet? You could, and that same logic is what the carnivore crowd uses to convince people the carnivore diet has merit.Simplicity, is Thy Name Carnivore?What could be simpler than eating a diet of just red meat? Who doesn't like a good steak? If you just eat steak or red meat, you will lose weight. When you lose weight, you will feel better. And your labs might improve. You might think it is paradoxical that your cholesterol level went down - it isn't; that is just a result of giving up junk food and weight loss.Every diet has a honeymoon phase, where people think they can do the diet "forever."Then reality comes home:The diet becomes boring, and one noteThere is an undeniable increased risk of heart disease and cancerMaybe you got hemorrhoids or developed diverticulitisFinally, in social situations, you become that person - the one who could only eat red meat  - the reverse veganFORK UToday, on Fork U, we will discuss the latest low-carb fad: the Carnivore diet, the denial that goes into those who make up the diet, and the risks of an all-meat diet.I'm Dr. Terry Simpson, and this is Fork U.Fork UniversityWhere we make sense of the madness, bust a few myths, and teach you a little about food as medicine.Carnivore DietThe carnivore diet, which primarily consists of animal products like meat, fish, and eggs, has become the latest low-carb fad. It is a controversial and extreme dietary approach. Proponents of the carnivore diet claim numerous health benefits. To be clear, the scientific evidence supporting these benefits is limited, and that long-term studies on the effects of the carnivore diet are lacking.Paul Saladino, Ken Berry, and Shawn Baker are a few doctors who advocate for this diet. And oddly, none of them see private patients, although Saladino and Baker love showing their abs, and spend a lot of time in the gym.The Biotruth of EvolutionSome claim the natural diet of humans is meat. This is a biotruth.When someone tells you that “man was meant to eat” this or that – it is part of a logical fallacy known as a biotruth. A biotruth is an argument presented by someone with misunderstood notions of human biology and/or evolution but uses those false arguments to justify their views. In this case, how they eat.You can extend that logical fallacy out: man was not meant to fly, so we shouldn’t be in airplanes. Primitive man did not have laboratories, so we should not have antibiotics.You will see biotruth arguments from people who practice carnivore diets, as well as those who practice vegetarian (and vegan) diets. Often with photographs of our jaws and those of our ancestors – or they will say how we have a long or short intestine, and on that basis, we “were meant” to eat in whatever their view is.As we evolved, were we better...

Sorry It Didn't WorkThis is the time of year when everyone is excited about some change in their life. My neighbors are doing a "dry January" because they want to cut down on their alcohol. Other neighbors committed to more physical activity before a hip replacement. And there is the inevitable "what diet will I do this time?"Now, before I go to that, long-time readers of my newsletter will realize that I am drinking my cup of Peet's coffee. Peet's is a story of disappointment, which I will use to illustrate a point:Diet DisappointmentDiets are like that person who disappoints you again and again. The person you invite to events, but they never reciprocate. The diet starts out great. You lose a bit of weight, decide you can eat this way forever, and this is your new lifestyle.  Then something happens. If you are smart, you realize you cannot live that way. Most, though, internalize and think, "It is my fault." Well, it isn't your fault. Low Carb DisappointmentLow-carb diets can be disappointing for various reasons. Some people may find it difficult to stick to a low-carb eating plan because they miss certain high-carb foods that they enjoy. This can lead to feelings of deprivation and dissatisfaction with the diet. Additionally, some people may not experience the weight loss or health benefits they were hoping for with a low-carb diet. It's important to remember that everyone's body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another.  Furthermore, it is important to focus on overall health and well-being rather than just weight loss or specific dietary restrictions. Every year, someone starts a new version of low carb. I've done a few myself. This year's version is carnivore. Some are doing a carnivore January.  The results will be the same as the previous low-carb diets - and let me go back to Peet's coffee.Coffee and DietsI have been a member of Peet's Coffee Club since 1995. I get it faithfully every couple of weeks. Whole beans. It costs about $36 for two bags. Then I discovered I could get it at Costco for $25, with no shipping charge, the same date of roasting. I wrote Peet's, of course. They told me my coffee is always fresh, unlike the bulk sold to Costco. Except the roasting date is on the package. Diets are like that. You get some results, then disappointment. You don't get the return for the money. But someone in the low-carb community will tell you that you didn't do it correctly:You were not earnest enough,You didn't get the right kind of grass-fed beefThe beef wasn't organicYou ate a banana and ruined ketosisIf you stop eating carrots, you will maintain ketosis.Oh, does that pasta look deliciousStop eating vegetables and grains, and just eat beef, salt, and waterNow What?So, some consider weight loss surgery or new drugs. Both of these are reasonable (yes, I have done a lot of weight loss surgery in my time).But what I've advocated is that people have to take responsibility for what they eat even after weight loss surgery. Well, you don't have to - but your body is a perfect calorie counter.Does that mean a "diet?" No, the goal of weight loss drugs or surgery isn't to put someone on a diet for weight loss. The goal is to give them good food so they can nourish themselves.It also means I have to get rid of silly ideas they learned from things like the low-carb diet. The low-carb diet, that friend you always invite into your home, always disappoints.My Journey to Culinary MedicineAbout ten years ago, I received certification in Culinary Medicine. Part of that training was long hours reviewing the literature...

The Scams and Quacks of the YearThe New Year, the point we all look for a second chance. To get healthy, lose weight, adopt a new habit.  And waiting for you are the hucksters who want to sell you hydrogen in your water, expensive supplements of dubious value, and some choices that might actually harm you. If it sounds too good to be true, you might just be hearing the sound of the duck - or a quack, at least. TOP SCAMS OF THE YEARCarnivore DietMagnesium SupplementationCeltic SaltMTHFR Gene MutationCold PlungesFORK UToday, on Fork U, we will reveal the top scams of 2023 and make sense of the madness that surrounds them.I'm Dr. Terry Simpson, and this is FORK U. Fork University.Where we teach you a little bit about food as medicineBusting myths and making sense of the madness.The Liver King and Paul SaladinoChief among the shirtless salesmen of supplements and scams, 2023 saw the self-described liver king (Brian Johnson) fall from grace, and his partner, Paul Saladino, tried to say he didn't know.Liver King's five-foot-two-inch frame was filled with more steroids and growth hormones than found in a pharmacy. Purchasing somewhere between $12,000 and $20,000 of injectables a month and eating a diet far from the liver he recommended. Ultimately, Johnson admitted this, albeit the evidence was overwhelming. Finally, let us not forget that his business partner, Paul Saladino, loves to yell at spinach and kale while pushing his Heart and Soil supplements.Liver King and Saladino jointly own a supplement business, Heart and Soil. They sell supplements and pretend to tell you about health through the carnivore diet.  Moreover, the company "Heart and Soil" is registered in Texas, and Brian Johnson, his wife, and Saladino are all board members.The Shirtless Salesmen of Supplements and ScamsBeing shirtless is oddly effective, especially among some men. Whether this comes from "we like alpha males with abs" or homo-erotic fantasy, shirtless sells. Countless times showing studies refuting their claims don't move these supporters. In fact, the response from some males was some version of "Show me your abdominals." My retort, "I'd love their abs, but in time they'd love my arteries," just didn't move them.I still find it odd that a grocery store would allow a shirtless person to yell at spinach. Yes, Saladino did train in psychiatry, although he does not see patients.While Saladino said, he had "an inkling" his partner was doing steroids. Johnson (Liver King) used to inject insulin and balance it with maple syrup.  Isn't it odd that Saladino's refrigerator is filled with the same maple syrup that Liver King used to balance his insulin to increase glycogen in his muscles?The Carnivore Diet - or - Doctors Don't Learn Nutrition in Medical SchoolSaladino received a medical degree from The University of Arizona, and I was a faculty member (assistant professor) at the time.  Saladino loves to pander to the anti-medicine crowd with the trope that doctors don't learn the root cause of disease. I pointed out that we taught him pathophysiology, and he must have forgotten that our Western medicine discovered the root cause of many diseases.In front of one audience, Saladino claims he learned nutrition in medical school. Then, a few years later, he claims he didn't learn nutrition in medical school. Do we learn nutrition in medical school?Do Doctors Learn Nutrition in Medical School?As someone who is certified in Culinary Medicine and taught nutrition, I can say yes and no. The basics of nutrition are anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. While you can get these courses in college, in...

Canola Oil is Healthy and InexpensiveDid you ever notice there are those people who will tell you how everything is bad for you? Don't eat this and don't eat that?They make grand assertions about the modern food system. Often claiming we should return to the age of the caveman. Assuming that health will return when we eat what our ancestors ate.The Logical Fallacy of Ancestral Diets / and HumansProponents of ancestral diets are confused by the logical fallacy called a biotruth.What is a biotruth? An argument based upon a misunderstanding of natural selection or the evolutionary process. Usually combined with the conclusion that if it was good enough for primitive man, it should be true for now. Ultimately, we forget that primitive man did not have an easy life.Canola Oil Podcast TranscriptCanola oil is today's topic because not everyone wants to buy expensive olive oil. When I mention canola oil on TikTok, the comments go like this:Canola oil was "meant" to be motor oilIt comes from the rapeseed plantIt is a GMO-crummy oilChemically extracted with hexane and it can turn rancid and create trans-fatsAre those claims valid? Should we avoid Canola oil? Must we avoid Canadians in general?Today on Fork UWe will make sense of the madness that is Canola oil. Is it an evil plant that is only good to make oil for your car, truck, or tank? Or is it a reasonable oil for your body?I'm Dr. Terry Simpson, and this is Fork UFork UniversityWhere we make sense of the madnessBust a few mythsAnd teach you a little bit about food as medicine.What is Canola Oil?Canola oil was invented in the 1970s in Canada and is an acronym that stands for Canadian oil's low acid.Canola comes from the pressed seeds of rapeseed plants. Granted, that is an unfortunate name. However, not if you know its epistemology.&nbsp; Rapeseed comes from the Latin rapa, which translates to "turnip." Thus this flowering plant is a member of the turnip, cabbage, and mustard family.Latin just isn't taught anymore. But if you think of Rome often, as we men do, Latin might be the new language for you.Speaking of Mustard, did you ever wonder why we don't have mustard oil in the United States? Primarily Erucic acid.Erucic AcidErucic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that is associated with heart disease. In some poorly done experiments in rats, they seemed to have higher levels of heart disease. Rats, not politicians. But the healthy kind of rats you find in sewers, not the vermin found in Washington, DC.Erucic acid is why you don't find mustard seed oil in the United States. Those who travel to India will experience delicious foods cooked in mustard oil. But don't fear. It will be just fine (ref).In fact, erucic acid decreases the rate of some progressive brain diseases and is being examined to treat cancer and other diseases.Rapeseed Oil as a lubricantBecause of the high erucic acid content, rapeseed oil was originally used as an industrial lubricant. Some rapeseed was cold pressed, seeds gathered, pressed, and not heated, and the oil extracted. This has been used as a cooking oil for years, but there was concern regarding the erucic acid content.Canadians HybridsCanadian scientists began to crossbreed the rapeseed with wild cabbage to lower erucic acid. The seeds of this new hybrid plant became the Canola oil. Later, this plant was genetically modified to withstand Round Up. Hence, it is a genetically modified plant (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3187797/"...

Nuts and Seeds, or SupplementsPeople who count calories notice nuts contain about 200 calories per ounce. Nuts are calorie-dense. However, nuts are also nutrient-dense. Moreover, nuts provide fiber, healthy oils, and essential minerals.Nuts have been shown to decrease sudden cardiac death, decrease cholesterol, and provide satiety that helps people who wish to control their weight.Two Brazil nuts contain enough magnesium to meet the adult daily requirement.&nbsp;Food Works, Supplements May NotThe advantage of a healthy diet is that you do not need supplements in your diet. While Magnesium is an essential mineral needed in hundreds of reactions in your body, you can get all the magnesium you need by following a Mediterranean Diet.Take Pumpkin Seeds - also known as Pepitas in the US. Kernels: 1 oz, 168 mg or pumpkin seeds in shell: 1 oz, 74 mgOther Foods That Work:Almonds, dry roasted: 1 oz, 80 mgSpinach, boiled: ½ cup, 78 mgCashews, dry roasted: 1 oz, 74 mgPeanuts, oil roasted: ¼ cup, 63 mgSoymilk, plain or vanilla: 1 cup, 61 mgBlack beans, cooked: 1⁄2 cup, 60 mgPeanut butter, smooth: 2 tablespoons, 49 mgBread, whole wheat: 2 slices, 46 mgAvocado: 1 whole one is 44 mgPotato, baked with skin: 3.5 oz, 43 mgRice, brown, cooked: 1⁄2 cup, 42 mgYogurt, plain, low fat: 8 oz, 42 mgOatmeal, instant: 1 packet, 36 mgBanana: 1 medium, 32 mgSalmon, Atlantic, farmed: 3 oz, 26 mgHalibut, cooked: 3 oz, 24 mgRaisins½ cup, 23 mgChicken breast, roasted: 3 oz, 22 mgBeef, ground, 90% lean: 3 oz, 20 mgBroccoli, chopped &amp; cooked: ½ cup, 12 mgApple:1 medium, 9 mgCarrot, raw: 1 medium, 7 mg&nbsp;All of those are foods you get in your diet, and all of them are a part of a healthy Mediterranean Diet.&nbsp;TEXT FROM PODCAST:Which is better? Magnesium glycinate three eight citrate or oxide?This is one of the most common questions I'm asked during my doc talk live sections on TikTok. Magnesium supplementation is a popular subject probably ever since the disgraced Naturopath published her book The Magnesium Miracle, claiming that magnesium could cure over 60 diseases. It was popular because so many people wanted one thing that they could grab hold of to explain all of their problems.And because symptoms of magnesium deficiency are common, fatigue, weakness, insomnia, and heart palpitations, it became a natural reservoir for all of the nonsense that people want to present.Barbara O'Neill, the naturopath banned from Australia for dangerous practices, frequently lectures that taking Celtic salt will cure hypertension, but it isn't Celtic sea salt you need.If you need magnesium today, I will introduce you to Mediterranean magnesium. It will not only help regulate blood pressure but also improve your life and increase longevity.Today on Fork U, we will make sense of the madness of magnesium, and we'll tell you which magnesium supplement you should buy and which you should avoid. And how to take the Mediterranean magnesium miracle and avoid the supplemental magnesium misery of Montezuma.I'm Dr. Terry Simpson, and this is Fork Fork University.where we make sense of the madness. Bust a few myths and teach you a little bit about food as medicine.The Mediterranean magnesium miracle. Where do you get this? Well, first try nuts and seeds, which we include in the fruit section of the Mediterranean diet. Did you know that two Brazil nuts contain enough magnesium for a person for a day? An ounce of pumpkin