Jul 21, 20233 min read

In The News: Diets ‘warped’ by Low Fat Revolution

In The News: Diets ‘warped’ by Low Fat Revolution

Last week I chatted to Shannon Thomson - Central Otago & Southern Lakes Bureau Chief from Allied Press (Central Otago News & The Otago Daily Times)

In The News: Diets ‘warped’ by Low Fat Revolution - You can read her article here and also follow her journey as she undertakes my 12 week Body Reset Transformation Programme.

You can listen to our full interview in Episode 7 of the Lifestyle Design Secrets Podcast by clicking below. Or read on for a summary.

In full disclosure... I asked ChatGPT to summarise our transcript, based on the conversation we had. It's quite funny, but they definitely got the gist!

Interviewer (Shannon): Hello, everyone! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Amy, an expert in human geography with a focus on the epidemiology of obesity and food security. Amy, thank you so much for being here with us.

Amy: Thank you, Shannon! I'm really excited to have this conversation about nutrition and its impact on our lives.

Shannon: Your area of study sounds fascinating, Amy. Can you share some insights on how corporate interests might influence nutrition guidelines?

Amy: Absolutely, Shannon. It's really interesting to see how corporate giants like McDonald's, Coca-Cola, and others are associated with organizations like the New Zealand Nutrition Foundation. This raises questions about the impartiality of the guidelines they provide.

Shannon: That's definitely worth considering. How have past dietary trends, like the low-fat era in the '80s, influenced the current nutrition guidelines?

Amy: The legacy of the low-fat era is still evident in many nutrition guidelines today. The idea that low-fat products are healthier led to an emphasis on beige whole grains and limited animal products, which has resulted in misconceptions about what constitutes a healthy diet.

Shannon: That's an important point. Do you think the current nutrition guidelines are adequately tailored to the needs of New Zealanders?

Amy: While some adjustments have been made, the guidelines are often based on Australian and US ones, which might not fully account for the unique dietary needs of New Zealanders. A deeper examination reveals some flaws in the approach.

Shannon: Your research on the geography of obesity is intriguing. Can you tell us more about how proximity to fast-food outlets impacts obesity rates?

Amy: Of course, Shannon. Proximity to fast-food outlets can have a direct impact on obesity rates. Areas with limited access to healthier food options often have an overabundance of unhealthy choices, which can lead to difficulties in maintaining a balanced diet and may contribute to obesity.

Shannon: Your insights are eye-opening. Have you observed significant improvements in people's well-being after making dietary changes?

Amy: Absolutely. By educating my clients on managing blood glucose levels and focusing on protein-rich breakfasts, I've witnessed remarkable transformations in their mood and sleep patterns. These changes have had a positive impact on their overall well-being.

Shannon: That's wonderful to hear. What are some common mistakes you've noticed among your clients in their dietary habits?

Amy: One common mistake is excessive sugar consumption, often disguised in the form of seemingly healthy carbohydrates. People often overlook the importance of protein for satiety and blood sugar management, leading to unstable energy levels.

Shannon: Your approach seems quite different from mainstream dietary advice. Have you faced any resistance from the industry?

Amy: Surprisingly, not much resistance. I focus on the proof of my clients' success, as many have experienced significant medical improvements, such as reduced cholesterol levels and even reversing type 2 diabetes. The results speak for themselves.

Shannon: That's impressive. In conclusion, what advice would you give to our audience for adopting a healthier approach to nutrition?

Amy: My advice would be to challenge traditional dietary norms and prioritise individual well-being over marketing-driven consumption. Opt for a balanced diet with a focus on protein-rich meals and be mindful of your food choices. Making small, sustainable changes can lead to significant improvements in your health and overall quality of life.

Shannon: Thank you, Amy, for sharing your expertise and insights. It's been an enlightening conversation!

Amy: Thank you, Shannon! It was a pleasure to be here and discuss these important topics with you and the audience. Let's all strive for a healthier and happier future!

HAHA! You can listen to the real interview over on my podcast and read Shannon's article online here.

More free resources. Like to listen? Check out the Lifestyle Design Secrets Podcast on Apple Podcasts & Spotify below.