Optimum Nutrition

The Institute for Optimum Nutrition
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The Optimum Nutrition podcast is a weekly interview series brought to you by the Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION) - one of Europe’s longest established nutritional therapy training providers. Each episode, we explore a new topic within the world of nutrition with an expert guest, touching on their food and health journeys, and addressing common myths and misconceptions. Together, we’ll discover how powerful food can be for our health and happiness. We’ll find out how a ‘healthy diet’ looks different for everyone. And, because food is so personal, with each guest we’ll talk a bit about what food means to them.

  1. Dr Victoria Sampson exposes the mouth's hidden health truths

    2D AGO

    Dr Victoria Sampson exposes the mouth's hidden health truths

    Functional dentist Dr Victoria Sampson joins host Natalie Li to explore why the mouth is one of the most powerful – and overlooked – indicators of whole‑body health.  From the oral microbiome to menopause, and even dental care for astronauts, Sampson breaks down how what happens in the mouth reflects what’s happening everywhere else. Discover why saliva is a diagnostic goldmineLearn how bleeding gums signal systemic inflammationSampson reveals why diet remains one of the biggest drivers of oral healthSampson also shares how she’s redesigning the traditional dental checkup with deeper testing, personalised care, and even the use of music to transform the patient experience. This episode is a sharp, science‑informed look at the mouth-body connection – perfect for clinicians, nutrition professionals, and anyone curious about the future of oral health. Link to Covid investigation Dirk Neefs DentistIf you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    50 min
  2. How bestselling author Emily Johnson reclaimed her health

    JAN 21

    How bestselling author Emily Johnson reclaimed her health

    We speak with Emily Johnson, a bestselling author, founder of Live Well with Arthritis, and creator of Arthritis Foodie, about growing up with autoimmune arthritis, the years of confusion before diagnosis, and how a science-informed anti-inflammatory lifestyle helped her find steadier ground alongside medication. Now studying a part-time BSc degree in Nutritional Therapy with the Institute of Optimum Nutrition, Emily is developing an in-depth, science-informed understanding of nutrition and lifestyle science.  The course offers hands-on experience and teaches students how to guide clients towards lasting health changes.  In this episode we cover:  • Early symptoms in childhood and at university  • Frustrations with delayed diagnosis and first treatments  • Methotrexate benefits and side effects  • Relapse that led to diet and lifestyle change  • Building Arthritis Foodie and writing two books  • Evidence behind Mediterranean-style eating  • Community support reducing isolation  • Studying nutritional therapy at the Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION)  • Curiosity about hormones and pain links  • Day-to-day meals, prep, and simple swaps  • First steps for newly diagnosed people  • 80–20 approach and flare-up toolkits Follow Emily Johnson on Instagram @ArthritisFoodie https://arthritisfoodie.com/ Check out Emily's Live Well with Arthritis Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    31 min
  3. Why immunity drives longevity with Dr Jenna Macciochi

    12/17/2025

    Why immunity drives longevity with Dr Jenna Macciochi

    In this episode we sit down with Dr Jenna Macciochi, leading immunologist and author of Immune to Age, to explore the powerful connection between immunity and aging. Macchiochi has spent 20 years studying the immune system. From infectious disease to autoimmunity, lifespan vs. healthspan, and the science of inflammageing, Jenna explains how your immune system is your lifelong health ally. We discuss watershed ages, lifestyle choices that matter most, and the concept of ‘soul span’: living with meaning in the main event of life.  This is the perfect episode for the curious listener seeking sustainable habits and a deeper understanding of longevity. If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    1h 1m
  4. The power of medicinal mushrooms with Tom Baxter

    11/19/2025

    The power of medicinal mushrooms with Tom Baxter

    In this episode of the Optimum Nutrition podcast, host Natalie Li speaks with Tom Baxter, farmer and founder of the Bristol Fungarium, which produces the UK's first organic certified medicinal mushrooms. Tom explores the journey of mushroom farming, the health benefits of various mushrooms like Reishi and Lion's Mane, and the science behind their medicinal properties. Tom shares insights into the challenges faced by the mushroom industry, the cultural significance of fungi, and the future trends in mushroom consumption. This conversation highlights the importance of soil health and the potential of mushrooms to address various health issues, making it a rich resource for anyone interested in nutrition and wellness.  If you want to support their work or try their tinctures, head over to bristolfungarium.com and explore their offerings.  If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    37 min
  5. What's really in your food? Dan Kittredge on nutrient density

    10/16/2025

    What's really in your food? Dan Kittredge on nutrient density

    In this episode, Dan Kittredge – founder of the Bionutrient Food Association and the Bionutrient Institute – takes us on a journey from his roots on an organic farm to leading a global movement for better food.  He breaks down the concept of nutrient density, why soil health matters more than ever, and how citizen science is empowering everyday consumers to demand higher-quality food.  Dan shares simple, actionable steps farmers can take to improve crop nutrition and outlines a bold vision for shifting agriculture’s focus from yield to quality. If you’ve ever wondered what’s really in your food and how it impacts your health, this episode is your wake-up call. Chapters  00:00 The Journey of Dan Kittredge 05:34 Understanding Nutrient Density 15:49 The Science of Soil Health and Food Quality 22:29 Empowering Consumers through Citizen Science 23:43 The Nutritional Decline Across Generations 25:32 Transforming Soil Health: A Simple Approach 30:42 Shifting Focus: From Yield to Quality in Agriculture 32:10 The Role of Citizen Science in Agriculture 33:50 Defining Nutrient Density: A New Framework 35:07 The Future of Food: Enhancing Nutrient Density 39:19 Global Outreach: Building a Movement for Change 🔗 LINKS + MENTIONS:  The Bionutrient Institute is a project of the Bionutrient Food Association. The Bionutrient Meter is a handheld spectrometer that works through the principle of spectroscopy. The Bionutrient Meter has lights (LEDs - light emitting diodes) that emit light at very specific wavelengths, which then bounce off objects like carrots, or carrot pulp, or spinach, or soil. Some of it is absorbed by the object and turned into other forms of energy, like heat. A light sensor in the device reads how much light bounces back for each wavelength very quickly and multiple times throughout a given measurement. Want to learn more? The Power of Medicinal Mushrooms Fri 7 November 2025 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM BMA House, London, WC1H 9JP Join ION for an inspiring evening exploring the science and practice of medicinal mushrooms - with expert talks, a panel discussion, and opportunities to connect. Find out more and book If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    43 min
  6. “I was told it was like being chased by a tiger all day” – TV presenter Julia Bradbury on health hacks and happiness

    09/18/2025

    “I was told it was like being chased by a tiger all day” – TV presenter Julia Bradbury on health hacks and happiness

    We're back for season four! Julia Bradbury is a renowned British television presenter, journalist and environmental advocate, best known for her work on nature documentaries like Countryfile and Britain’s Best Walks.  In this enlightening and inspiring conversation, she shares her health journey with Natalie Li, Communications Officer at ION.  She discusses the importance of nutrition, stress management, and the healing power of nature. Her new book, Hack Yourself Healthy, explores biohacking and preventative health measures, advocating for a holistic approach to wellness that integrates emotional health and nature therapy.  (Cover image credit: David Venni) Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Julia Bradbury's Journey  02:56 Transition from journalism to nature broadcasting  05:35 Facing Breast Cancer: A Personal Journey  08:34 Nutrition Before and After Diagnosis  11:06 Understanding Stress and Its Impact on Health  14:15 Exploring 'Hack Yourself Healthy' and Its Insights  19:55 Food Choices: A New Approach to Nutrition  43:29 Navigating the Toxicity of social media  43:31 The healing power of Ayurveda  01:04:02 The Therapeutic Benefits of Walking  01:09:14 Integrating Nature Therapy into Healthcare  🔗 LINKS + MENTIONS:  https://juliabradbury.com/ Julia Bradbury’s new book Hack Your Healthy is out now  🔖Clare Pooley, author of the Sober Diaries, and featured in Hack Yourself Healthy. www.clarepooley.com  🔖Anna Mathur is a psychotherapist, author and speaker.    www.annamathur.com  🔖Dr. Kara Fitzgerald is actively engaged in clinical research on epigenetics and longevity using a diet and lifestyle intervention developed in her research and practice.  www.drkarafitzgerald.com 🔖 Two hours a week is key dose of nature for health and wellbeing – a study led by Dr Mat White, of the University of Exeter Medical School.  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44097-3  https://news-archive.exeter.ac.uk/featurednews/title_720059_en.html#:~:text=Research%20led%20by%20the%20University,all%20during%20an%20average%20week.  🔖Hum2n, biohacking lab in London  https://www.hum2n.com/  📌The NMI Summit 2025 is the biggest and most important event of its kind for Nutritional Therapy. It takes place on 3-4 October in London.   This year’s theme: The Path to Resilience: Personalised Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine for Psychiatric Disorders and Mental Health  Visit www.NMI.health to learn more.   Use the code ION20% for a special 20% off for ION Podcast listeners.  If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    1h 12m
  7. Revolutionising kids' food with Hannah Dolan

    04/23/2025

    Revolutionising kids' food with Hannah Dolan

    Hannah Dolan is a dynamic food innovator with a passion for creating nutritious, trend-setting meals. As Head of Food at Nursery Kitchen, she’s revolutionising children's nutrition, ensuring young minds grow with wholesome, delicious food. Previously, at Potage, she streamlined operations and elevated product quality, driving higher customer satisfaction. Her six-year tenure at Pret A Manger saw her rise to Head of Global Food Innovation, where she spearheaded bestselling product launches, expanded Veggie Pret and introduced Pret's first vegan bakery range, boosting sales by 60%. She also laid the groundwork for Pret’s consumer packaged goods and evening menu expansion. Earlier in her career, Hannah honed her skills as a food developer at Bakkavor, and Abergavenny Fine Foods, leading major NPD projects across UK retailers.  In this conversation she talks to journalist, Hatty Willmoth, about: Innovation in children’s food.Educating children on food, flavours and textures.Calling on government and early years to set stronger nutrition standards and overcome barriers to great food in the early years.https://nurserykitchen.co.uk/     If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    54 min
  8. Transforming lives through nutrition with Kate Cook

    03/24/2025

    Transforming lives through nutrition with Kate Cook

    In our latest episode we chat to Kate Cook, a trailblazer in health and nutrition, with over 20 years of expertise transforming lives and workplaces.  As a nutrition and wellness expert, author and keynote speaker, Kate has worked with more than 7,000 clients, including corporate giants like JP Morgan and Pret a Manger, to create healthier, happier teams. Her journey began in her late twenties, leaving the art world to pursue nutritional therapy and founding The Nutrition Network to unite practitioners. With a Master’s degree in Anthropology of Food, Kate views nutrition as both science and soul, championing its transformative power. A TEDx speaker and author of seven books, Kate leads a movement proving age is no barrier to wisdom, energy, or impact. Her work continues to redefine wellness in businesses and beyond. In this candid episode she reflects on her career, how to be sensational at 60, and why the personal touch matters more than ever.  https://katecook.biz/ If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media at @ion_nutrition Interested in learning about nutrition yourself? Check out www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. If you enjoyed this episode, follow us on social media @ion_nutrition, sign up to our monthly newsletter and why not leave us a comment below. Interested in learning about nutritional therapy? Visit www.ion.ac.uk to find out more. Views expressed by guests are not those of ION, nor does ION endorse any third party products mentioned. Recorded on Riverside. See for more https://riverside.com/privacy-policy information.

    51 min
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About

The Optimum Nutrition podcast is a weekly interview series brought to you by the Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION) - one of Europe’s longest established nutritional therapy training providers. Each episode, we explore a new topic within the world of nutrition with an expert guest, touching on their food and health journeys, and addressing common myths and misconceptions. Together, we’ll discover how powerful food can be for our health and happiness. We’ll find out how a ‘healthy diet’ looks different for everyone. And, because food is so personal, with each guest we’ll talk a bit about what food means to them.

Information

  • Creator
    The Institute for Optimum Nutrition
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Optimum Nutrition
  • Show Website
    Optimum Nutrition

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