Wednesday, January 19 No. 8 Topic of the Day While current research is inconclusive, studies suggest that blood markers indicating chronic inflammation may be higher in people eating a meat-rich diet compared to those eating lots of fruit and vegetables, and that switching to a whole food plant-based diet may decrease markers in inflammation. Learn more about inflammation and diet from Rania Dempsey, MD here. Research Published scientific studies illustrate the association of diet influencing diversity of the microbial flora of the gut. Plant-based diets (low in fat, animal protein, and sugar, and high in dietary fiber) increase microbial diversity as compared to westernized diets (high in fat, animal protein, sugar, and low in fiber). The differences in microbiota results in differences in microbial metabolites. Westernized diets have increased production of metabolites like ammonia, indoles, phenols, and sulphide that may be detrimental to health. Westernized diets are pro-inflammatory while plant-based diets are anti-inflammatory. These observations indicate that westernized diets increase susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease and other chronic diseases. Plant-based Inspiration Try this simple sweet potato porridge for breakfast, Sally's family swears by it! Ingredients: sweet potatoes and shredded coconut. Nut butters, nuts, and fruit of choice for toppings!
Action Item Wash, prep, and cut up raw fresh veggies twice a week and store them in an airtight bin in the fridge to have easy access to a healthy snack! REGISTER HERE to join a panel discussion on the documentary, The Game Changers. The documentary showcases success stories of athletes that have benefited from a plant-based diet. The panel discussion will be held on February 1, 4-5pm via Zoom. The documentary is available to watch on Netflix, Youtube, and other fee-based options. Take a virtual coffee break with Dr. Stuart Wong and Dr. Rania Dempsey as they chat about the science behind plant-based nutrition and tips on how to get started with some simple lifestyle modifications to improve your overall health. Join us TODAY at 11:30am on Facebook Live! Coffee Conversations with Scientists is a monthly web series that digs into the science behind a health topic making news today. Medical College of Wisconsin | 8701 Watertown Plank Road | Milwaukee, WI 53226 | United States |