In this episode, I spoke with Dr. Alan Desmond, a leading gastroenterologist and gut health advocate. Dr. Desmond highlights the profound impact of poor digestive health on overall well-being, suggesting that normalizing gut function can potentially add a decade to one's life expectancy, a fact that deeply resonated with me.
We also discuss the crucial role of a healthy, whole food plant-based diet in reducing the risk of chronic illnesses and promoting vitality. It's eye-opening to realize the influence of our food choices on our health.
Furthermore, Dr. Desmond explores the fascinating gut-brain connection, emphasizing the importance of nurturing our gut microbiome for a healthy gastrointestinal tract, immune system, and body.
In conclusion, Dr. Desmond encourages us to leverage modern medicine and be mindful of our food choices. Join us on this enlightening episode of the Visibly Fit podcast as we delve into the world of gut health and learn how to optimize our digestive function for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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[00:00] Welcome to the Visibly Fit Podcast with Wendie Pett
[00:38] Introduction to Dr. Alan Desmond
[04:58] Dr. Alan's Background and Entry into Whole Food Plant-Based Teaching
[10:01] The Connection Between Food and Digestive Health
[14:12] A Healthy diet prevents digestive disease
[19:00] Healing through plant-based lifestyle changes
[21:14] A Patient's Triumph Over Chronic Illness and Gestational Diabetes
[27:37] Preventing chronic illness: Ten years of health
[32:30] The Gut-Brain Connection and The Role of the Gut Microbiome
[38:33] Discussion on Poop, Bowel Movement, and Bristol stool chart
[42:50] Stool Volume and Dietary Habits in Different Regions
[44:26] Importance of Early Detection for Digestive Health Problems
[47:05] Squatty Potty for better posture during bowel movements
[49:24] Dr. Desmond's Faith
[51:39] Conclusion
Resources mentioned:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.alandesmond
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAlanDesmond/
Website: www.alandesmond.com
The Plant-Based Diet Revolution: 28 Days to a Healthier You: https://a.co/d/3rdBqSr
Dr Desmond’s scientific publications: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Alan-Desmond-2
Connect with today's guest:
Dr Alan Desmond MB, BCh, BMedSc, FRCP.
Doctor Alan Desmond is one of the UK and Ireland's most prominent gut health experts. With a social media reach of over 150k, he is an enthusiastic advocate for the benefits of a gut-healthy diet and lifestyle.
He is a sought-after podcast guest and has been featured on several well-known podcasts, including “The Rich Roll Podcast”, “Deliciously Ella”, “The Proof”, “The Doctor’s Kitchen”, “The Melissa Ambrosini Show” and “The Exam Room”. Dr Alan has also featured in the Sunday Telegraph and Irish Examiner newspapers. He has shared his expertise and enthusiasm for plant-based diets on BBC News Spotlight and Virgin Radio’s Chris Evans Breakfast Show.
Doctor Alan is a Consultant Gastroenterologist who has made evidence-based dietary advice an essential part of his medical practice. He has presented at numerous international medical conferences on the benefits of this approach to food, alongside other renowned advocates including Dr Michael Greger, Dr. Michael Klaper, Dietician Brenda Davis, Dr. Kim Williams, and Dr Neal Barnard. He is an Ambassador for Plant-Based Health Professionals UK, a not-for-profit group that educates members of the public, health professionals, and policymakers on the incredible health benefits of a plant-based diet.
Certified in both Gastroenterology and General Internal Medicine, Doctor Alan completed his medical training in Ireland and Oxford. He has a specialist interest in the role of diet in the prevention and treatment of Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. A fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, London, he has published several influential research papers in the field of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and is a dedicated advocate for the gut health benefits, and overall health benefits, of a whole-food plant-based approach to nutrition. He lives in South Devon with his wife and three children.
Alan has written for the Daily Telegraph and the Irish Times. He has contributed to numerous best-selling publications, including “The Happy Health Plan” by Stephen and David Flynn, “How to Go Vegan” by Ian Theasby and Henry Firth of BOSH!, “How to Go Plant-Based” by Ella Mills, “Let’s Do This: How to use motivational psychology to change your habits” by Andy Ramage, and “Plant-Based Nutrition in Clinical Practice”, edited by Professor Shireen Kassam. His own best-selling book, ‘The Plant-Based Diet Revolution: 28 Days to a Happier Gut and a Healthier You’, is available wherever books are sold.
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