Is it possible to eat for both pleasure and performance, without sacrificing either? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Flávia Fayet-Moore, nutrition scientist and CEO of Nutrition Research Australia, to unpack the science of nutrient density and explore how we can better nourish ourselves through practical, enjoyable food choices.
We dive deep into the world of nutrient profiling, the unintended consequences of nutrition messaging, and the need for more context and compassion in the way we talk about food. From ultra-processed foods to dietary patterns and what people are actually eating, this conversation challenges assumptions and focuses on evidence over ideology.
What We Cover in This Episode:
- What “nutrient density” really means and why it’s more than just a buzzword
- The difference between nutrient-rich and energy-dense foods
- Where most people fall short on key micronutrients (and how to close the gap)
- Common nutrition myths that are hurting public health
- Why ultra-processed food is a nuanced issue
- The power of dietary patterns over individual ingredients
- The need for accessible, affordable, and culturally relevant food solutions
- How social media has influenced public perception of healthy eating
- Why improving population health requires better communication, not just better data
- What evidence-based practitioners can do to help people feel less judged and more supported
If you’ve ever felt confused by headlines, overwhelmed by food rules, or just curious about what the data really says, this one’s for you.
You can connect with Dr Flávia Fayet-Moore on LinkedIn and Instagram.
- Why Nutrition Science Needs More Micronutrient Focus (00:05:00)
- Eating Habits & Deficiencies in Young Women (00:12:00)
- What Bioactives Are & Why Whole Foods Matter (00:18:00)
- Is There a “Best Diet”? Context Over Perfection (00:24:00)
- Milk, Juice & Rethinking Nutrient-Dense Drinks (00:30:00)
- Juice & Cardiometabolic Health: Surprising Findings (00:35:00)
- Nutrition Misinformation & Evidence-Based Communication (00:41:00)
- Balancing Human and Planetary Health with Food Choices (00:48:00)
- Cow’s Milk vs Plant Milks: Nutrients, Fortification & Formulation (00:56:00)
- Are Supplements Harmful or Helpful? It Depends (01:03:00)
- Vitamin D, Sunlight & The Power of Mushrooms (01:09:00)
- Why Mushrooms Deserve Their Own Food Group (01:16:00)
- Ergothioneine, Beta Glucans & Mushroom Superpowers (01:23:00)
- Folate, Iron & The Risks of Over-Supplementation (01:30:00)
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Resources and Links:
- ATBC Study
- VITAL Trial
- Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives Contribute to a Healthy and Sustainable Diet
- Effect of Personalized Nutrition on Dietary, Physical Activity, and Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Trials
More about Dr. Flavia Fayet-Moore:
Dr Flávia Fayet-Moore, better known as Dr Fláv is a Brazilian-born, Canadian-raised, Australian-made keynote speaker, nutrition scientist, space nutritionist and entrepreneur. With a career spanning more than two decades, she has been at the forefront of what’s next in food and nutrition and can tailor her keynotes to a variety of industries. With three degrees in nutrition (HBsc MNutrDiet, PhD), an alumna of the International Space University and CEO of FOODiQ Global, Dr Fláv brings her unique perspectives as a global citizen, business woman, and an active scientist to inspire people to open their minds to concepts that they have never imagined, to be ahead of the curve, to challenge the status quo, take action, and nurture the longest relationship they will ever have: the one with food.
