Plant Proof - Plant Based Nutrition & Inspirational Stories

In today’s episode of The Proof, we dissect a video featuring Dr. Gabrielle Lyon discussing protein sources and the importance of leucine for muscle building. I break down her claims, compare animal and plant protein sources, and explore the latest research on muscle protein synthesis and long-term health outcomes. Introduction (00:00) Dr. Lyon's Argument: Animal vs. Plant Protein (00:17) Critiquing Dr. Lyon's Protein Source Comparisons (01:14) Evaluating the Leucine Threshold Hypothesis (03:13) Plant-Based Protein Sources: A Deeper Look (06:30) Scientific Studies on Protein and Muscle Growth (15:40) Conclusion (25:17) Key Discussion Points: Dr. Lyon’s Claims Comparing Protein Sources The Leucine Threshold Debate Beyond Muscle Protein Synthesis Plus, if you watch/listen all the way to the end I share a fun personal story about my 90-year-old grandma who took up walking 10km a day! Enjoy, Simon Want to support the show? The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offere

Think creatine supplementation is all about timing and loading? You might be surprised. In episode #350, I dive into six frequently asked questions about creatine, inspired by a follow-up review by Dr. Jose Antonio and colleagues. Whether you’re just starting with creatine or already supplementing, this episode will provide clarity and practical insights. Learn why timing matters less than consistency, whether co-supplements like carbs enhance effectiveness, and if creatine affects blood pressure, fertility, or urine production. This is your ultimate guide to making informed decisions about creatine supplementation. Key highlights include: Does the timing of creatine intake matter? Do other compounds enhance creatine’s effectiveness? Does creatine affect blood pressure or increase urine production? Is creatine safe to use during pregnancy? Can creatine supplementation impact male fertility? Discover insights and supporting studies in the full show notes. Introduction (00:00) Timing of Creatine Supp

In this episode of The Proof, I explore male fertility with Dr. Ramy Abou Ghayda, a leading urologist specialising in reproductive health. Together, we unpack the science behind sperm health, bust common myths, and provide evidence-based strategies for optimising male fertility. You'll discover: The truth about declining male fertility rates and what current research tells us How lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and environmental toxins affect sperm health Evidence-based nutrition strategies and supplements for improving fertility Whether you should abstain from ejaculation in the days before intercourse when trying to conceive The impact of modern technology and daily habits on reproductive health Practical tips for protecting and enhancing male fertility at any age And much more Whether you're planning a family or simply interested in optimising your reproductive health, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice from one of the field's leading experts. Introduction (00

Episode #348. Love isn’t just a feeling – it’s a skill. Relationship coach Jillian Turecki joins me to explore the habits, mindsets, and tools you need to build and sustain meaningful love. We explore the role of self-esteem, how to navigate conflict, and what makes a relationship worth fighting for. Packed with insights on compatibility, healthy communication, and cultivating love, this episode offers practical advice for every stage of your relationship journey. Specifically, we discuss: Love is a daily practice: How can we build it? (0:00) Understanding relationship breakdowns (8:18) How self-love shapes relationships (11:06) Challenges of loving ourselves (16:18) How to navigate conflict effectively (34:51) Addressing commitment and anxiety in love (40:00) When should you discuss your needs in a relationship? (43:44) The difference between connection and relationship (46:54) How to master conflict repair (49:48) Giving effective feedback in relationships (52:52) How to know when it’s time to l

Episode #347. Two friends, four studies, endless insights. Join me as I sit down with Drew Harrisberg to break down the latest in nutrition, fitness, and longevity, sharing surprising truths you won’t want to miss. Along the way, we reflect on my recent debate with Dr Robert Kiltz, exploring key takeaways and how they fit into the broader conversation about diet and health. Learn about the impact of smartphone use on workout performance, how many calories you really burn during exercise, and whether a large dose of creatine can conquer a poor night’s sleep. This episode is packed with groundbreaking research and practical tips to help you make more informed choices for your health. Specifically, we cover: Introduction (00:00) Catching Up with Drew Harrisberg (01:05) Upcoming Studies and Research (27:04) Meat vs Plants Debate Frustrations (39:58) Keto Diet and Metabolic Health (57:54) New Study: Smartphone Use and Workout Performance (01:04:47)\ New Study: High-Dose Creatine and Cognitive Performance (

Episode #346. Keen to commit to your health in 2025? Tune in for the ultimate cheat sheet, packed with the best insights from 2024 on nutrition, fitness, and longevity. This is your chance to reflect, reset, and step into the new year with actionable tips from the brightest minds in health and wellness. This special episode features wisdom from world-class experts, including Alan Aragon, Dr Kevin Maki, Dr Carol Kirkpatrick, Dr Nicholas Burd, Dr Venki Ramakrishnan, Dr Thomas Dayspring, Dr Kellyann Niotis, Dr Christos S. Mantzoros, Dr Karl Nadolsky, Dr Daniel Soffer, Dr Michael Hill, Dr Alyssa Olenick, Dr Jen Gunter, Robin Sharma, and Dr Christopher Gardner. Specifically, we cover: Introduction (00:00) Effective, evidence-based weight loss strategies (01:35) The importance of protein for health and metabolism (10:07) Unpacking the 30-30-30 framework for sustainable health (14:27) Optimal vs. Maximal Protein Intake for Muscle Growth (28:11) How lifestyle choices influence the science of ageing (32:03) Th

Episode #345. Don’t take your eyesight for granted. Join me as I sit down with optometrist Dr Joseph Allen to discover science-backed ways to care for your eyes, including common eye health myths, practical strategies for protecting your vision, and expert advice on maintaining healthy eyes for life. Learn how diet and lifestyle affect your eyesight, the truth about blue light glasses, and why regular eye exams are essential. Dr Allen also shares tips on contact lens safety, myopia prevention, and keeping your eyes healthy for years to come. Specifically, we discuss:  Introduction to Eye Health and Dr. Joseph Allen's Expertise (00:00) Dr Allen’s Journey: From Thick Glasses to Optometry Career (02:18) Busting Eye Health Myths and Misconceptions (06:25) How the Human Eye Works: Vision Explained (08:39) Top Eye Conditions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments (11:04) The Myopia Epidemic: Causes and Solutions (19:50) Best Practices for Maintaining Optimal Eye Health (25:12) Do Blue Light Blocking Glasses Wor

Episode #344. Creatine isn’t just for athletes – it’s a powerhouse supplement that benefits people of all ages and activity levels. Join me to unpack the science behind creatine and explore five evidence-based reasons why it could play a vital role in improving your health and performance. You’ll learn how creatine supports muscle strength, endurance, brain function, and even bone health. I’ll also break down dosing guidelines, clear up common misconceptions, and explore how this safe, well-studied supplement could be a game-changer for your health and performance. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction to Creatine: The Supplement Everyone Should Consider (00:00) What is Creatine? Basics, Benefits, and Origins Explained (00:56) Strength & Muscle Mass: How Creatine Amplifies Gains (03:22) Endurance & Recovery: Boost Performance with Creatine (09:24) Osteoarthritis Relief: Creatine for Joint Health and Mobility (12:56) Brain Health & Cognition: How Creatine Enhances Mental Performance (15:29) Bone Heal

Episode #343. Vegan vs. carnivore – which diet stands up to the science? Join me in this fiery debate to find out. Hosted by Ellen Fisher, this thought-provoking episode pits me, Simon Hill, against Dr Robert Kiltz, a leading voice in the carnivore and keto movements. Together, we explore opposing perspectives on nutrition, from the hierarchy of evidence to the health implications of plant-based and animal-based diets. Whether you’re vegan, carnivore, or somewhere in between, this conversation will challenge your views and help you make more informed decisions about your health and the planet. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Personal Health Journeys: How Diet Shapes Our Lives (02:20) Scientific Evidence vs. Personal Anecdotes: Finding the Truth (07:50) Nutritional Science and Its Impact on Public Health (16:51) Mechanisms and Metabolic Health (22:55) Why Experts Disagree: Conflicting Views on Diet and Health (30:16) Ansel Keys Revisited: The Fat vs. Sugar Debate in Nutrition (54:45) Ou

Episode #342. My all-in-one guide to nutrition: learn how to eat for health, performance, and the planet. In this special episode, I’m interviewed by Kristen Holmes, VP of Performance Science at WHOOP, for a conversation about the principles of plant-based eating and how our food choices influence long-term health and recovery. You’ll learn about the key principles of a healthy diet, the truth about protein and legumes, and the environmental impact of what’s on your plate. We also explore fascinating WHOOP data on how diet affects sleep and recovery, making this episode essential listening for anyone looking to optimise their health, performance, and wellness through nutrition. Specifically, we cover: My perspective on plant-based nutrition (00:00) Key principles of a healthy diet and debunking myths (03:29) Exploring Scientific Evidence Supporting Plant-Based Diets (13:01) How to transition to healthier dietary patterns (19:10) The truth about legumes and their nutritional value (24:17) Nutrition and

Episode #341. Confused about oils, butter, and fats in your diet? This masterclass explores which fats to prioritise, which to avoid, and how different types of fats influence your health. This episode features both a solo deep dive into the science of fats and expert contributions from past guests, offering practical tips and evidence-based guidance for smarter food choices. Joining me in this episode are world-class experts, including Dr Philip Calder, Dr Gary Fraser, Dr Gil Carvalho, Prof Roy Taylor, Dr Alan Flanagan, Dr Matthew Nagra, Dr Walter Willett, Dr Ayesha Sherzai, and Dr Dean Sherzai. Together, we unpack the science behind dietary fats and provide evidence-based insights to guide your long-term health decisions. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Understanding Dietary Fats: Saturated, Unsaturated, and Trans Fats (00:48) Essential vs. Non-Essential Fats (05:47) Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Benefits and Sources (06:31) Brain Health and Omega-3s (07:48) Saturated vs. Unsaturate

Episode #340. Think metabolic health is all about carbs and calories? You might be missing a crucial part of the puzzle. Join me as I break down how the location and type of fat your body stores can dramatically impact your health and risk of disease. In this episode, you'll learn how body fat distribution influences your risk of metabolic disease, why weight impacts individuals differently, and how to determine if you have excess fat in your liver. Plus, discover my 6 key tips for enhancing your metabolic health through diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments. Specifically, we discuss: 00:00 What Is Metabolic Health and Why It Matters 00:41 The Root Cause of Poor Metabolic Health Revealed 02:55 Understanding Your Personal Fat Threshold (Key to Fat Loss) 04:32 The Twin Cycle Hypothesis: How Fat Affects Metabolism 05:10 Liver Fat: The Hidden Culprit of Metabolic Disorders 16:16 6 Proven Strategies to Reduce Ectopic & Visceral Fat 33:36 Key Takeaways: Fixing Metabolic Health in 6 Steps 35:00 Bonus

Episode #339. Are you getting the full picture of your heart health? Learn why ApoB is the test you shouldn't skip. In this episode, I sit down with Dr Daniel Soffer, a preventive cardiologist and lipidologist, to break down the importance of ApoB testing for cardiovascular risk assessment. You'll learn why ApoB provides more comprehensive insights than LDL cholesterol alone, who can benefit most from this test, and how it fits into preventive cardiology. Dr Soffer shares practical advice for assessing cardiovascular disease risk, discusses the implications of diet and genetics on heart health, and explores case studies to help you understand when and why ApoB testing is crucial. Specifically, we discuss:  Introduction (00:00) Insight into Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology (01:38) Understanding Lipoproteins and Their Role in Cardiovascular Disease (06:40) Techniques for Lipoprotein Testing and Measurement (11:33) Exploring Atherosclerosis and Lipoprotein Retention Hypothesis (31:18) Epidemiological

Episode #338. Struggling with acne, aging, or other skin concerns? Discover how to build a science-backed skincare routine with insights from Carter “Eviba” Gottlieb. In this episode, I’m joined by Carter and special guest Tawny Janae to explore the essentials of skincare, breaking down what truly works and what might be a waste of time and money. You’ll learn about foundational skincare steps, the benefits of active ingredients like retinoids and niacinamide, and how to protect your skin from sun damage. Carter also shares tips for managing acne, avoiding common skincare myths, and building a routine that supports long-term skin health. If you’re looking to enhance your skin’s appearance and health, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction: Unveiling the Science of Skin Care (00:00) Carter’s Path into Dermatology and Science-Based Skincare (04:35) Carotenoids and Their Effects on Skin Health and Appearance (08:58) Debunking Myths About Suppleme

Episode #337. An estimated 45% of dementia cases are preventable – find out how you can reduce your risk by targeting these 14 modifiable factors. Today I’m joined by Dr Kellyann Niotis, the first fellowship-trained preventive neurologist, to explore the latest research on dementia prevention and how simple lifestyle changes can dramatically reduce your risk. In this episode, we break down The Lancet’s 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia, from managing LDL cholesterol and staying physically active to addressing hearing loss and improving your mental health. You’ll also learn about the links between nutrition, sleep, and brain health, and why it’s never too early – or too late – to start taking care of your brain. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Pioneering Preventive Neurology (00:07) Decoding Neurodegenerative Diseases (00:56) Understanding the Phases of Neurodegeneration (02:09) Early Indicators: Preclinical Signs and Cognitive Impairment (07:12) Uncovering Dementia’s Risk Factors a

Episode #336. What if our food systems could help heal the Earth? Join me as I sit down with ethnobotanist Stephen Brooks to explore permaculture, alternative living, and the future of agriculture. Together, we discuss how you can be part of the solution to building a better balance between humans and nature. You’ll learn about the principles of permaculture, the ethical issues in modern food systems, and some unique fruits to seek out. Stephen also shares his vision for designing cities and agriculture that work in harmony with the planet, and why now is the time to get involved in the transition to a healthier world. Specifically, we discuss: The World of Fruit and Plants: Connection to Nature (00:00) From Miami to Costa Rica: A Journey into Sustainability (03:59) Environmental Injustice and the Impact on Communities (05:08) Permaculture and Sustainable Agriculture Practices (11:54) How to Build Sustainable Communities through Permaculture (26:30) Perennial Vegetables: A Key to Sustainable Agricultur

Episode #335. Struggling to keep weight off long term? Learn the science behind successful fat loss and maintenance with experts Kevin Maki, PhD, and Carol Kirkpatrick, PhD. In this episode, we discuss evidence-based strategies for losing body fat and keeping it off, while exploring the role of nutrition, exercise, and pharmacological interventions. You’ll learn about the impact of protein and fibre on hunger and satiety, the benefits of regular exercise for insulin sensitivity, and the potential role of medications like GLP-1 agonists. Dr Maki and Dr Kirkpatrick also share insights on the challenges of maintaining weight loss and how to make lasting changes for better health. Specifically, we discuss: Introductions (00:00) Carol’s Journey into Nutrition and Research Development (04:27) Kevin’s Path in Cardiometabolic Health Research (11:53) The Importance of Observational Studies in Nutrition (14:59) Understanding Dietary Fats and Cardiometabolic Health (19:49) Public Health Nutrition: Current Challen

Episode #334. Can we turn back the clock on our biology? Join me as I sit down with Nobel Prize-winning structural biologist Dr Venki Ramakrishnan to discuss why we age, how we age, and the scientific advancements helping us live longer and healthier lives. In this episode, you'll learn about the core reasons behind aging, the role of ribosomes and DNA damage in this process, and the science behind popular longevity interventions. Dr Ramakrishnan shares his insights on misleading anti-aging claims, how much control we truly have over aging, and the truth about "biological age". We also explore practical ways to slow down aging and extend our healthspan. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction to Aging and Longevity Science (00:00) Ribosomes and Their Role in Longevity Research (00:57) Controversies in Anti-Aging Research (05:09) Understanding the Biology of Aging (11:25) Genetics and Evolution: How They Shape Human Lifespan (22:10) Youthful Cells: The Future of Longevity Studies (29:38) Biological Inte

Episode #333. What does cholesterol have to do with dementia? Learn how to protect your brain health in the long term with this information you should be considering from your twenties and thirties. From cutting-edge science on cholesterol metabolism to fourteen key risk factors for dementia, we break down what you can do now to reduce your risk of cognitive decline later. In this episode, I’m joined by two renowned experts, Dr Kellyann Niotis and Dr Thomas Dayspring. Together, we explore the connection between cholesterol and dementia, personalised prevention strategies, and how making lifestyle changes today can safeguard your brain for the future. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Cardiology Meets Neurology: Understanding the Connection (07:53) Dementia and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Comprehensive Overview (13:26) Recognizing Early Dementia Signs and Risk Factors (21:43) Lipoproteins and Brain Health: The Crucial Link (32:36) ApoB vs ApoE: Comparing Apoprotein Functions in Neurological Heal

Episode #332. Blood tests can be confusing, but they don’t have to be. Learn how to interpret your comprehensive blood test results as I walk through key markers for cardiometabolic, hormonal, and overall health. Discover why I recommend blood tests every 6–12 months, learn the results of my most recent blood test, and hear insights from esteemed scientists Dr Thomas Dayspring and Dr Karl Nadolsky in this thorough guide. Specifically, I cover: Introduction (00:00) Personal Health Journey and Lifestyle Context (04:06) Cardiometabolic Biomarkers: Cholesterol, Triglycerides, and ApoB (09:29) Debunking the Triglycerides-to-HDL Ratio Debate (20:56) Insulin Sensitivity and Metabolic Health Markers (29:10) Hormones: Testosterone Levels and Testing (30:42) Thyroid Function: Family History and Test Interpretation (37:19) Iron and Micronutrient Insights (50:12) Key Lifestyle Habits for Optimal Health and Final Thoughts (51:44) Download my full blood test results here, or head to the full show notes for add