Afleveringen
-
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to returning guest Professor Grant Schofield about his book that has been released (and sold out in bookstores up and down the country): Choose Your Hard. We unpack this and more and it is, as always, an awesome conversation.
Grant is a Professor of Public Health at Auckland University of Technology, former Director of the University’s Human Potential Centre, former Chief Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of Education in New Zealand, co-author of four best-selling books and Chief Science Officer for PREKURE.
Professor Grant’s career has focused on preventing the diseases of modern times, and seeing what it takes to help people live a long, healthy and happy life.
He lives and breathes the motto “be the best you can be”, and sees this as a game-changer for the health system – capable of transforming the current health (sickness) model, to one in which we aspire to be well. He is redefining public health as the science of human potential; the study of what it takes to have a great life.
Grant is well known for thinking outside the box and challenging conventional wisdom in nutrition and weight loss, as well as physical activity and exercise.
He brings his fluency across several scientific disciplines – from human physiology, to psychology, to peak performance – to his role at PREKURE, where he delivers world class training in lifestyle medicine
Grant’s book https://profgrantschofield.com/choose-your-hard-a-philosophical-guide-to-getting-shit-done/
You can find Grant through the following avenues.
Grant Schofield Blog:https://profgrantschofield.com/
Pre Kure https://prekure.com/
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/412
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/324
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/200
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/67
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/01
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
In this Mini Mikkipedia episode, Mikki unpacks the red flags that separate a legitimate nutrition approach from a fad diet dressed up in sciencey language. Starting with a brief history of some truly wild diets, from the swamp diet to tapeworms and the drinking man’s diet, she explains why modern trends may look just as absurd in hindsight. Mikki walks through the common patterns: demonising one nutrient, promising rapid results without trade-offs, relying on testimonials instead of evidence, and having no plan for what happens after the “challenge” ends. This episode gives listeners a practical toolkit for assessing diet claims, asking better questions, and avoiding programs that sell short-term scale drops without long-term strategy.
Highlights
Why fad diets often blame one nutrient for the entire obesity crisis The difference between fat loss and early water-weight loss Why maintenance matters more than the “before and after” photo How sciencey language can hide weak or non-existent evidence Why testimonials are persuasive, but not proofContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yoursNZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
In this episode, Mikki speaks with Hannah Cabre from Pennington Biomedical Research Center about energy expenditure, body composition, ageing, and what really happens to metabolism through midlife and beyond with a focus on sex differences.
Hannah’s work uses doubly labelled water data, considered the gold standard for measuring total daily energy expenditure in real-world conditions. This allows researchers to understand what people actually burn across the day, beyond estimates from fitness trackers, calorie equations, or short-term lab measures.
Mikki and Hannah discuss the idea that metabolism is “stable” from 20 to 60, whether menopause uniquely affects energy expenditure, why body fat can increase even when scale weight stays the same, and why preserving fat-free mass becomes increasingly important with age.
This is a nuanced, evidence-based conversation for anyone interested in metabolism, midlife body composition changes, and what ageing really means for energy needs.
https://www.pbrc.edu/research-and-faculty/faculty/cabre-hannah.aspx
Hannah E. Cabré, PhD, RD, is an Assistant Professor at Pennington Biomedical Research Center and Director of the Aging, Gynecology, and Endocrinology Laboratory. Her research focuses on how female sex hormones influence nutrition, health, performance, and body composition across the lifespan, with a particular interest in sex differences during ageing.
Hannah’s work explores the importance of skeletal muscle maintenance for long-term health, especially during the menopause transition, and how lifestyle interventions may help mitigate age-related changes in body composition and healthspan.
Contact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
In this Mini Mikkipedia episode, Mikki unpacks the real-world pros, cons and practicalities of food tracking. While macro counting is often sold as the “gold standard,” Mikki explains why tracking is less about complexity and more about the time, accuracy and skill required to do it well. She covers why beginners often underestimate the learning curve, how app databases can mislead, and why weighing food, logging extras and understanding raw versus cooked weights matter. The episode also explores the evidence around self-monitoring, adherence drop-off, photo-based tracking, and why consistency often matters more than perfection. Ultimately, tracking is framed as a tool, not a life sentence: useful for building food awareness, but not the only path to fat loss or maintenance.
Highlights
Why food tracking is “arduous,” not complicated The common mistakes that make macro tracking inaccurate What the research says about consistency, adherence and weight loss Photo-based tracking: great for patterns, poor for precision How tracking can build lasting food knowledge beyond the appContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
This week on the podcast Mikki speaks to returning guest Michelle Matangi about mindset around food, weight loss, weight loss maintenance and more. This is a special episode, and was originally part of the Mondays Matter curriculum, a Zoom call held with members earlier this year. As part of that, Michelle shares her own updated journey with her health and wellbeing, something she is very transparent about, of which is so helpful for anyone listening.
Michelle is a health and life coach in Taranaki who has helped hundreds of people redefine their relationship with food and themselves using strategies that she has perfected over two decades of understanding this for herself. Part of this is not always having the answers or implementing best laid plans, but having grace and acceptance when that isn’t possible.
https://www.michellematangi.com/
https://www.instagram.com/michellematangi/
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/74
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/172
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/320
Mastering maintenance webinar https://www.mikkiwilliden.com/mastering-maintenance-webinar
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
In this Mini-Mikkipedia episode, Mikki explores the emerging intersection between GLP-1 medications and ADHD, particularly around appetite, impulsivity, reward-seeking behaviour, and food noise. While there is currently no direct evidence that GLP-1s improve attention or focus, there is growing interest in how these medications act on brain reward circuits involved in compulsive eating, cue reactivity, alcohol intake, and other hedonic behaviours. Mikki breaks down why ADHD is more than an attention issue, explaining its links with dopamine regulation, obesity risk, binge eating, and emotional eating patterns. She also discusses why GLP-1s may be helpful for some adults with ADHD, while potentially creating issues such as low mood, flatness, reduced motivation, or under-fuelling in others. A nuanced one — less “magic bullet,” more “know the machinery.”
Highlights / Topics Covered:
Why ADHD is closely tied to dopamine, reward-seeking, impulsivity, and eating behaviour The relationship between ADHD, obesity, binge eating, and “food addiction” patterns How GLP-1 medications may influence reward circuits, food noise, cue reactivity, and compulsive eating Why GLP-1s could be helpful for some people with ADHD but may worsen flatness, motivation, or mood in others Practical considerations around nutrition, protein intake, stimulant medications, appetite suppression, and monitoringContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yoursNZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to Dr Matt Bernstein, a physician working in the emerging field of metabolic psychiatry, which explores the connection between brain health, metabolism, and mental illness.
In this episode, the conversation centres on how metabolic dysfunction may play a far greater role in mental health than traditionally recognised. Matt explains what metabolic psychiatry actually is, how it differs from conventional psychiatric approaches, and why factors like insulin resistance, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction are now being considered key drivers in conditions such as depression, anxiety, and more severe psychiatric disorders.
They explore the growing interest in nutritional and metabolic interventions, including dietary strategies like carbohydrate restriction, and how these may influence brain energy, neurotransmitter function, and symptom outcomes. The discussion also touches on where the evidence currently sits, what clinicians should be cautious about, and how to think about integrating these approaches alongside standard care.
It’s a thought-provoking conversation that challenges traditional models of mental health, while offering a more biologically grounded way of understanding and supporting the brain.
Dr. Matt Bernstein is a highly respected clinical psychiatrist and a leading voice in metabolic psychiatry, with 25 years of experience helping individuals achieve full mental health and functional recovery.
He graduated summa cum laude from Columbia University in English literature and earned his medical degree from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Trained at MGH/McLean, he served as chief resident and later held leadership roles including psychiatrist-in-charge and assistant medical director of the schizophrenia and bipolar inpatient program. He also serves as chief medical officer at Ellenhorn, developing community-based strategies to optimize mental health.
For the past five years, Dr. Bernstein has focused on metabolic psychiatry, first in his private practice, and then at Ellenhorn. More recently, he created Accord’s comprehensive program and is sharing his expertise through podcasts, national conferences, and briefings for members of Congress. He co-organized the first public conference on metabolic psychiatry, and co-leads a privately funded study evaluating outcomes of Accord’s pioneering interventions.
He serves on advisory and non-profit boards, including Metabolic Mind, Meru Health, The Metabolic Revolution, and the Coalition for Metabolic Health, helping advance the field both clinically and publicly.
https://accordmh.com/our-team/matt-bernstein/
Contact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
In this Mini Mikkipedia episode, Mikki explores whether fruit and vegetables really “boost” immunity in the way we often hear during winter. While produce absolutely supports health, the clinical evidence suggests its immune benefits are more specific than the marketing implies, especially for those starting from a low intake. Mikki unpacks research on fruit and vegetable intake, vaccine response, vitamin C loss in stored produce, and why frozen vegetables deserve more respect. She then broadens the conversation into what actually moves the needle for immune resilience: adequate energy intake, sufficient protein, correcting true vitamin D and zinc deficiencies, and supporting gut health through fermented foods and dietary variety. The takeaway? Your immune system does not need hype; it needs enough fuel, enough protein, and the right nutrients. Tiny old-school truth bomb, really.
Highlights / Topics Covered:
Why “boosting immunity” is an oversimplified claim What human trials show about fruit, vegetables, and immune function How storage affects vitamin C in fresh produce Why frozen vegetables can be a smart nutritional choice The hierarchy of immune support: food, protein, vitamin D, zinc, and gut healthContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to Brad Currier, Science Lead at Timeline Nutrition and lead author of the recent American College of Sports Medicine position stand on resistance training.
In this episode, the conversation begins with Urolithin A and Mitopure, exploring what it is, what it does in the body, and why it has become an area of interest for mitochondrial health and muscle function. Brad explains the proposed mechanisms, the current human evidence, and what outcomes have actually been shown to improve, from cellular-level changes through to potential real-world benefits.
Mikki and Brad also discuss who may be the best fit for a supplement like this, including older adults, athletes, and those already doing the fundamentals well, while also addressing the limitations of the current research and how to think about bias when science and industry intersect.
The conversation then shifts to resistance training, where Brad shares key takeaways from the ACSM position stand he led, including what matters most for strength, hypertrophy, and health, and what people can probably stop overthinking.
It’s a balanced, evidence-informed conversation about mitochondrial health, supplementation, strength training, and the practical foundations that still matter most.
Brad Currier is the Science Lead at Timeline Nutrition, where his work focuses on translating emerging research on mitochondrial health into practical, evidence-based applications. In particular, he has been closely involved in the science and communication around Urolithin A, the active ingredient in Mitopure, and its potential role in supporting muscle function, cellular energy, and healthy ageing.
With a background in exercise science and resistance training research, Brad brings a dual lens to his work—combining performance-focused insights with a broader interest in longevity and metabolic health. He has contributed to large-scale evidence syntheses in resistance training, helping clarify what actually matters for strength, hypertrophy, and overall health, and where the field may have overcomplicated things.
At Timeline, his role sits at the intersection of research, education, and application, helping bridge the gap between mechanistic science, clinical relevance, and real-world use—particularly as interest grows in interventions that support muscle and mitochondrial function across the lifespan.
Brad Currier https://www.instagram.com/bradcurrier.phd/
• ACSM Position Stand on Resistance Training (2026) - https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/fulltext/2026/04000/american_college_of_sports_medicine_position.21.aspx• Timeline Nutrition - https://www.timeline.com•
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
In this Mini Mikkiepdia episode, Mikki takes a fresh look at omega-3 fatty acids beyond the usual “good for your heart and brain” message. She explores emerging and lesser-known research on omega-3s and their potential role in protecting muscle during immobilisation, supporting fertility and oocyte quality, reducing period pain, improving submaximal exercise efficiency, and possibly influencing dementia and colorectal polyp risk. Mikki also discusses the difference between marine omega-3s like EPA and DHA, and plant-based ALA, including surprising findings in motor neurone disease research. With practical dosing context, cautions around study limitations, and a reminder to consider omega-3 index testing, this episode is a useful listen for active people, women in perimenopause, athletes, and anyone interested in targeted supplementation.
Highlights / Topics Covered:
How omega-3s may reduce muscle loss during injury, surgery, or immobilisation The role of EPA and DHA in fertility, period pain, and inflammatory pathways Emerging research on omega-3s, APOE4, dementia risk, and brain structure Why athletes may benefit from improved submaximal heart rate and perceived effort Practical dosing considerations and why the omega-3 index mattersContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yoursNZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to Melissa Koehl, a physical therapist and movement specialist living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, who brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to the conversation.
In this episode, Melissa breaks down what EDS actually is in practical terms, how it shows up day-to-day, and why so many people go years without a diagnosis. The discussion explores the difference between being naturally flexible and having true hypermobility, along with the often-overlooked symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, and proprioceptive challenges. Melissa explains what’s happening beneath the surface with joint stability and connective tissue, and why traditional approaches to exercise can sometimes do more harm than good.
The conversation then shifts into what actually works. From strength training and motor control to pacing, recovery, and rebuilding trust in the body, Melissa shares a clear framework for managing hypermobility safely and effectively. They also touch on the role of muscle mass, nutrition, and daily habits in supporting long-term function.
It’s a grounded and reassuring conversation for anyone navigating a body that feels unpredictable, offering both clarity and practical direction.
Melissa is a physical therapist with over two decades of experience, specialising in hypermobility, joint pain, and movement rehabilitation. She lives with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) herself, giving her a unique perspective on both the clinical and lived realities of the condition.
Originally a nationally competitive level 10 gymnast, Melissa’s flexibility was once a strength but ultimately contributed to a series of injuries, including a career-ending stress fracture in her lower back. Ongoing pain led her to explore different movement modalities, including Pilates, yoga, and strength and conditioning. While each offered benefits, it was the integration of these approaches that proved most effective.
Melissa went on to develop the ChimeraFit method, a system that combines elements of Pilates, yoga, strength, and balance training to support people with hypermobility, arthritis, and chronic joint pain. She has been teaching this approach for over 20 years, helping individuals build strength, stability, and confidence in their bodies through safe and effective movement.
https://www.instagram.com/dr.melissakoehl.pt/
https://www.chimera-health.com/ground-control-september-2026-waitlist
https://www.chimera-health.com/
Contact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
This week’s Mini Mikkipedia takes a closer look at multivitamins, nutrient status, and whether a daily broad-spectrum supplement may support cognitive ageing. Mikki discusses the COSMOS trial, a large randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study that examined multivitamin use in older adults, with a particular focus on the cognitive findings from its ancillary studies. While the parent trial did not show significant benefits for cancer or cardiovascular disease, the cognitive studies found consistent benefits for episodic memory, with effects estimated to be equivalent to slowing cognitive ageing by around two to three years. Mikki also unpacks the limitations, including modest effect sizes, population generalisability, supplement formulation, and why supplements should support, not replace, the fundamentals of nutrition, exercise and sleep.
Highlights:
Why calorie deficits can increase the risk of micronutrient insufficiency What the COSMOS trial tells us about multivitamins and brain ageing The difference between observational research and randomised controlled trials Why episodic memory may be particularly responsive to nutrient status Why supplement quality, nutrient forms, and baseline deficiency risk matterContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to Dr Matt Nagra, a naturopathic doctor and researcher known for his evidence-based perspective on nutrition, with a particular focus on plant-based diets and chronic disease.
In this episode, the conversation tackles one of the most debated topics in nutrition right now: protein. Matt helps unpack why protein has become such a focal point, how to interpret the current evidence, and what outcomes actually matter when we’re talking about intake and health. They explore the long-standing protein RDA and what it was designed to represent.
The discussion then moves into protein quality, addressing common claims around plant versus animal protein, and why mechanistic research doesn’t always align with long-term health outcomes. Matt also provides important context around dietary patterns and chronic disease risk, helping to separate the role of protein itself from the broader way people eat.
They finish with a dive into choline, covering its role in the body, how it interacts with other nutrients like folate and betaine, and what this means for people following predominantly plant-based diets.
It’s a thoughtful, nuanced conversation that cuts through the noise and brings clarity to some of the biggest questions in modern nutrition.
Dr Matt Nagra is a naturopathic doctor who graduated from the Boucher Institute after completing a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology at the University of Victoria. He holds additional board certifications in prescriptive authority, immunisations, advanced injection therapies, intravenous therapies, and acupuncture. Using an evidence-based approach, he creates individualised treatment protocols tailored to each patient’s health goals and lifestyle.
He has a particular passion for plant-based and vegan nutrition, physical medicine, and chronic disease treatment. With additional training in nutrition, he holds a Plant-Based Nutrition Certification from Cornell University and the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies, where he has also authored multiple articles. His work aims to support individuals in thriving on plant-based diets, while bridging the gap between lifestyle-based interventions and medical care.
Choline paper: https://www.academia.edu/3067-1345/2/4/10.20935/AcadNutr8085
Instagram: @dr.matthewnagra
Dr. Nagra’s website
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
In this Mini Mikkipedia episode, Mikki explores the concept of metabolic memory—a powerful and often overlooked driver of long-term health. Drawing on landmark studies like DCCT and UKPDS, she explains how periods of poor metabolic health can leave a lasting imprint, continuing to influence disease risk even after markers like blood glucose are brought back under control. But it’s not all bad news. Mikki also unpacks the flip side: how positive adaptations from training, nutrition, and metabolic challenges can create a beneficial “memory” that helps the body rebound faster and perform better over time. From epigenetics to mitochondrial function, this episode highlights why timing matters and why early intervention—and consistency—can shape your metabolic future.
Highlights:
What metabolic memory is and where the concept originated The “legacy effect” in diabetes research and why early control matters Cellular mechanisms: epigenetics, oxidative stress, and AGEs The positive side: training, ketosis, and metabolic flexibility Why your past habits—good or bad—continue to influence your healthContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yoursNZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
This week on the podcast Mikki speaks to returning guest Professor Emeritus Don Layman, a leading nutrition scientist whose work has been central to how we understand protein, metabolism, and the role of diet in long-term health.
In this episode, the conversation starts at the top—unpacking what dietary guidelines actually are, why they exist, and how they came to shape the way we think about food at a population level. Don walks through the historical context behind early guidelines, including where things may have gone off track, particularly around the treatment of fat, cholesterol, and protein-rich foods.
From there, the discussion moves into the science. Don outlines the limitations of relying heavily on observational nutrition research and contrasts this with findings from controlled trials, particularly in relation to protein requirements and metabolic health. He explains why he recommended a shift to the new protein targets to better support muscle, satiety, and overall health.
Dr. Donald Layman is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Dr. Layman has been a leader in research about protein, nutrition for athletic performance, obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular health. Dr. Layman has over 100 peer-reviewed publications.
He has received numerous awards for his research from the American Society for Nutrition and the National Institutes for Health and for his nutrition teaching. Dr. Layman currently serves as Associate Editor of the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior and on the editorial boards of Nutrition & Metabolism, and Nutrition Research and Practice. Dr. Layman has an extensive consulting background including work with NASA, the Shriners Children’s Hospital, the US Air Force plus numerous food companies and organizations including Kraft Foods, Nestlé, Agropur and the National Dairy Council. Dr. Layman earned his doctorate in human nutrition and biochemistry at the University of Minnesota.
Prof Layman publications: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Donald-Layman
Conversations with Dr Lyon: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLx1_K-1RwcGTt25RbHqXYcRaQm6rD3Ce7
Prof Layman on Twitter: https://twitter.com/donlayman
Previous podcasts
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/55
https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/238
Contact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
In this Mini Mikkipedia episode, Mikki breaks down one of the most persistent nutrition debates: are high-protein diets actually harmful? Drawing on a recent perspective paper published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, she unpacks common claims around kidney damage, bone loss, diabetes risk, and reduced longevity. Rather than dismissing concerns outright, Mikki walks through what the research truly shows, highlighting key methodological flaws, the limits of observational data, and the importance of context. From overfeeding studies to real-world dietary patterns, this episode challenges headline-driven narratives and brings nuance back into the conversation. If you’ve ever questioned whether your protein intake is “too high,” this is a grounded, evidence-informed discussion to help you cut through the noise and make more confident decisions.
Highlights:
Why the “protein turns to fat” claim doesn’t hold up in real-world studies The truth about protein intake and kidney health in healthy individuals How higher protein diets impact bone density and fracture risk The nuance behind protein, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes Why observational data often misleads protein-related health claimsContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to naturopath Rachel Arthur, who specialises in micronutrients and their role in human health and performance. In this conversation, they take a step back from the noise around supplements and dig into what actually matters when it comes to nutrient status.
Rachel shares her perspective on how we assess whether people are truly well nourished, why intake doesn’t always reflect what the body is using, and where common gaps can arise even in those eating a generally “good” diet. They explore the nuance of absorption, bioavailability, and individual requirements, along with the limitations of current guidelines and standard testing.
The discussion also moves into practical territory, covering how to think about supplementation, the importance of nutrient forms and interactions, and what active individuals and those pursuing fat loss should keep in mind when it comes to optimising micronutrient status without overcomplicating the process.
Rachel https://rachelarthur.com.au/rachel/
Nutrient Prescriber course: https://rachelarthur.com.au/product/the-nutrient-prescribers-program-full-access-13hrs-video-notes/
Rachel Arthur is a seasoned naturopath and registered nutritionist with a specialisation in integrative nutrition and diagnostics. With three decades of experience spanning clinical practice and educational settings, Rachel has established herself as a leading educator in the field of nutritional medicine. Her work is deeply rooted in evidence-based practices, contributing to renowned texts such as the award-winning Herbs & Natural Supplements – An Evidence-Based Guide across all four editions.
Delivering advanced training and mentorship to a wide range of healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, dietitians, and naturopaths, her educational initiatives, such as the popular Update in Under 30 podcast, reflect her dedication to providing practical, actionable insights that empower clinicians to integrate nutritional strategies into their practice effectively.
With a passion for integrative health and an ongoing dedication to professional development, Rachel's presentations are not only informative but also transformative, making a significant impact on the practitioners she mentors.
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
This week, Mikki breaks down one of the most common (and misunderstood) questions in fat loss and health: what should your body fat percentage actually be? Drawing on current research, she explains why body fat isn’t just “dead weight” but an active endocrine organ that plays a critical role in metabolism, hormones, and overall health. Mikki unpacks the difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat, why where you store fat matters, and how risk increases at higher levels. She also explores the lack of a universal “ideal” number, highlighting how factors like age, sex, and ethnicity influence healthy ranges. Finally, she cuts through the noise on body composition measurements, from DEXA to BIA, and offers practical guidance on what to focus on instead of chasing a single number.
Key Highlights:
Why body fat is metabolically active and essential for health The critical difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat Evidence-based body fat ranges for men and women Limitations of common measurement tools like BIA and DEXA Why health is more than just a body fat percentageContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order -
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk to order yoursNZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to David Scott, Professor of Clinical Epidemiology at Monash University and a leading expert in muscle health, ageing, and body composition.
In this episode, the conversation centres on one of the most important areas of metabolic health: skeletal muscle. Prof Scott unpacks why muscle mass and function are critical for healthy ageing, and how this becomes increasingly complex in the context of obesity, weight loss, and modern treatment approaches.
Mikki and Prof Scott explore the tension between improving metabolic health and preserving muscle, including what happens to lean mass during weight loss and why muscle quality matters as much as quantity. They also discuss practical strategies around resistance training and protein, and how these may need to shift across the lifespan.
The discussion then turns to GLP-1 receptor agonists and their growing role in obesity management, examining what we know so far about their impact on muscle mass, strength, and long-term health outcomes.
This is a broad, evidence-based conversation that brings muscle back to the centre of the metabolic health discussion, with clear takeaways for both clinicians and individuals.
David Scott is a Professor of Clinical Epidemiology at Monash University, with a research focus on musculoskeletal health, ageing, and body composition.
His work centres on understanding and preventing age-related declines in muscle mass and function, including sarcopenia and frailty. He has a particular interest in how lifestyle factors such as nutrition, physical activity, and body weight influence muscle quality, strength, and overall functional capacity across the lifespan.
Professor Scott’s research also explores the intersection of obesity and muscle health, including the concept of sarcopenic obesity, as well as the effects of weight loss and emerging therapies on lean mass and physical function. His work contributes to the development of evidence-based strategies to support healthy ageing, maintain independence, and reduce the burden of chronic disease.
Professor Dave Scott: https://www.monash.edu/medicine/scs/researchers/david-scott
Contact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden -
This week, Mikki breaks down a major 2025 study using UK Biobank wearable data to challenge one of the most widely accepted rules in exercise science. For decades, we’ve been told that one minute of vigorous activity equals two minutes of moderate activity. But the data tells a very different story. Drawing from over 73,000 participants, this episode unpacks how vigorous movement may be four to ten times more effective depending on the health outcome. Mikki explains what actually counts as “vigorous” (it’s more accessible than you think), the physiological mechanisms driving these benefits, and how small bursts of effort throughout your day can meaningfully impact long-term health. This is a practical, evidence-based rethink of how to approach movement for metabolic health, cardiovascular fitness, and longevity.
Key Highlights:
Why the long-standing 1:2 activity ratio doesn’t hold up What “vigorous” really means in real-world terms How short bursts of effort impact cardiovascular and metabolic health The surprising limits of light activity for disease risk reduction Practical ways to incorporate high-value movement into daily lifeContact Mikki:
https://mikkiwilliden.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutrition
https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/
https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden
NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nz
Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKI at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.com
Curranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order - Laat meer zien
