Wise Traditions

What can we do to help those in food deserts? How can we address food insecurity and inequality? Pam Hess, the Executive director of Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture, discusses what we can do as individuals and organizations to make whole, real foods available in cities and rural areas where choices are limited. She discusses the mission of Arcadia: growing food and farmers, creating demand, and making fresh food accessible to low-income families. Their mobile market service brings fruits, vegetables, eggs, and grass-fed meats to under-served communities. By accepting food stamps and providing vouchers, Arcadia gives people the opportunity to nourish themselves well for improved health and a more positive future. Their model is holistic and replicable. You will be inspired to help reduce barriers to healthy food and to work for food justice. Learn more about Arcadia's work in D.C. at arcadiafood.org. For this episode's highlights, go to the podcast page at westonaprice.org.

Why is fast food cheap while real, organic food is so expensive? Why are there “food deserts” not only in cities, but in rural areas around the country? How did the invention of the automobile and the grocery cart affect our food-buying habits? Pam Hess, the Executive Director of Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture, explains our broken food system and how it has set the stage for our current health crisis. All of us should have the choice to purchase nutritious real food where we live, but many cannot. Pam has a firm grasp on the history of our nation that has led us to this point. There are political and economic forces that affect the availability of food in our neighborhoods. She touches on the impact of WWII, the Cold War, crop subsidies, and the free market. Pam has solid ideas about where we are and what we need to do to remedy the situation. You will get the big picture of what has led our nation to this point---why real food is in short supply and how this negatively impacts our health. Learn about her center at arcadiafood.org. For more extensive show highlights, go to the podcast page of westonaprice.org.

Do you feel like you're often on the run? Does the idea of improving your diet (or your family's diet) overwhelm you? Susana Hill and Leslie Schall can help! They are young moms who have been on the same treadmill many of us are on and they've got simple ideas that can help us transition to the Wise Traditions (real food) diet. They share a bit of their own story today, and how they themselves were able to transition to a healthier diet and lifestyle. They share ideas that will help us avoid guilt, help us take our time in making changes, and making sure the changes in our eating patterns stick. In fact, Susana and Leslie are so good at helping others in this area that they've established The Wellworks Project for companies and individuals to discover ways to eat better that, well, work! Leslie and Susana are big fans of the Wise Traditions diet! But they readily admit how overwhelming it can all seem at first when you are transitioning from fast food to real food. If you want a solid place to start to make the switch, listen now and please share this episode so that others can do the same. You will all gain insight and encouragement that you can immediately apply to your own busy life. Learn more about The Wellworks Project here. And find out about the Wise Traditions diet at westonaprice.org.

“Eat your veggies!” We’ve heard this over and over and today we learn more about the “why” behind the charge! Author and holistic physician Dr. Tom Cowan refers to vegetables as our vitamin pills. They’re not primarily for calories or protein in our diet. We need their disease-fighting properties: the phytonutrients, the antioxidants, the minerals and vitamins that they offer! Vegetables help protect us against cancer, stroke, arthritis, diabetes, and more. Did you know that some indigenous groups thrived eating 10-15 different vegetables a day? And over 100 in a year? Tom recommends that we follow their example by diversifying the vegetables on our plates. He also explains why vegetables should complement, but not replace, fats and proteins in the diet. Eating more vegetables might seem like a chore. Tom admits that he used to spend a lot of time chopping and preparing veggies but not anymore. In today's episode, he reveals how he manages to eat plenty of vegetables without spending all of his time in the kitchen. You will certainly be inspired by all of the helpful information he shares about the critical role vegetables play in our overall health and you will discover practical tips for introducing a greater variety into your own diet. Learn more about the vegetable powders he prepares here: drcowansgarden.com. Or visit our website westonaprice.org to find articles and other resources on the subject.

Is fasting good for you? How should your diet change as you age? What's the best way to lose unwanted pounds? Why do "diet dictocrats" still insist we eat a low-fat diet, when the science points in a different direction? In today's conversation with Sally Fallon Morell, the head of the Weston A. Price Foundation, we touch on all of these topics. It is a "best of" bonus episode, featuring excerpts from articles in the Wise Traditions spring journal. You'll learn why nothing is off the table on the Wise Traditions diet. You'll hear about the misguided advice given to diabetic children and adults. You'll gain insight from Dr. Cowan's suggestions on balancing calorie intake and activity level. And, finally, you'll be shocked by some myth-busting related to the "Blue Zones" take on the traditional diets of Costa Ricans. There are nutrition and wellness hacks in every segment of this episode. Listen closely and you will be the better for it! Learn more about all of the above at westonaprice.org.

Toxins in our food and in our environment are wreaking havoc on our health. In today's episode, Zen Honeycutt, the founder of Moms Across America, describes the most common toxins, what they do to us, and how to protect ourselves against them. She goes into particular detail about the chemicals used in conventional agriculture and how they disrupt our gut health and the endocrine system. All of us are negatively impacted by toxins, of course, but Zen also explains how children are especially vulnerable to their effects. Zen talks about how her mission to help people ease their toxic burden began with the desire to see her son overcome a life-threatening nut allergy. She made a bold promise to help him get better, which she was able to keep primarily by reducing his exposure to GMOs and pesticides. Eliminating toxins from our diets is a great start for our own health. It's also critical to take steps to achieve change on a greater level. Zen brings up current events including a growing case against Azure Organic Farm in Oregon. She emphasizes that in our communities, our cities, and on our farms, we must advocate for what is best for all of us. Zen will inspire you with stories of her own family’s fight for health and her call to action for a better future for all of us. Learn more about Zen and her mission at momsacrossamerica.com. Or simply visit westonaprice.org and look for the show notes for episode 77.

Childbirth is unpredictable, wild, and primal. We have "modernized" childbirth, making it clinical, sterilized, and on a timetable. Genevieve Howland, a/k/a Mama Natural, recognizes that pregnancy and birth are normal, and that having a baby is a wondrous biological process and rite of passage—not a medical condition. In that light, Genevieve discusses how to prepare for a more natural childbirth experience and how to "naturalize" a c-section. Her goal is to educate mothers and fathers about their options during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. She covers everything from nutrition choices that aid in labor and delivery, steps to take to avoid "the cascade" of medical interventions, and the importance of skin-to-skin contact immediately after baby is born. Genevieve offers tremendous insights on pregnancy and childbirth throughout the entire episode. It is beautiful to recognize that wise traditions apply to food and nutrition, of course, and also to childbirth. Check out mamanatural.com for resources and videos. Or simply visit our website, westonaprice.org, for the episode show notes.

Some of us eat low-fat diets. Others eat high-protein/low-carb. But very few of us eat high-fat diets. All of the healthy people groups that Dr. Weston A. Price studied ate diets higher in fat than those we eat today. This is one reason that in today's conversation, Sally Fallon Morell, the head of the Weston A. Price Foundation, suggests that we all could benefit from upping our fat intake. More fat in our diet? Why? And how much should we be eating? What is a healthy fat, anyway? And are animal fats even necessary? Sally meticulously answers all of these questions and more, as she dives into Principle #7 of the Wise Traditions diet. She explains in detail the role of fats in biochemical body processes and the role fat played in traditional diets. She makes a compelling case for animal fats, in particular, since the body requires arachidonic acid to function properly and this omega-6 fatty acid is found only in animal fats. After listening to this episode, you will be prepared to challenge the diet dictocrats, and you will probably also be craving a hearty serving of butter, which you may enjoy guilt-free. Learn more about the Wise Traditions dietary principles at westonaprice.org.

Health care today is often, in reality, "sick care." We turn to medical professionals for the treatment and management of sickness and disease. Farmer Doug Flack is an activist who suggests a very different approach. He believes we should turn to the land to cultivate optimal health. He is convinced that we must develop healthy soil for healthy people. For this reason he asserts that the farm should be our primary health provider. He has spent years investigating and developing his approach to wellness. His studies have led him to the conclusion that industrialized farming and industrial food products are the reason for the lack of wellness in our modern society. Now, Doug spends his time cultivating the land, producing nutrient-dense foods, and advocating for farmers' rights and consumers' health in Vermont and around the nation and the world. In today's conversation, Doug explains why healthy soils are critical for our health and our future. While conventional farmers strip the soil of nutrients and rely on chemical inputs, Doug enhances soil function and fertility organically. And, of course, food raised on such land is an important part of a truly healthy diet. This episode not only encourages us to nourish ourselves with these staples, but it also reminds us that, in doing so, we are supporting soil fertility and soil champions like Doug Flack. Visit his website for more info at flackfamilyfarm.com. And to see the full show notes for this episode, visit westonaprice.org.

Do you crave sodas? You're in luck! You can drink "the original sodas" when you add naturally fizzy fermented drinks to your diet! They are more hydrating, and re-mineralizing than plain water. And they have numerous health benefits: they can aid digestion, circulation, improve health concerns, and even clear up skin issues. Hannah Crum, the author of "The Big Book of Kombucha," is a fermented drink expert. Today, she discusses a wide variety of fermented drinks: from kefir to kvass, to ginger beer, and more. She dives into the history of these drinks, how to make them, and how they can benefit your body. Hannah stresses the importance of "drinking your bugs" for upping the bacterial diversity of your microbiome. Such diversity is critical for strengthening the immune system, detoxing, boosting energy and more! The result? A strengthened, healthy, and resilient body. Learn more at her website: kombuchakamp.com or at westonaprice.org.

One in six children in the U.S. has a developmental disability; one in four is medicated; one in 48 has autism. (This means that approximately every 7 minutes, a child is diagnosed with autism.) All of these statistics are alarming, so what can we do to stem the tide? The West Virginians for Health Freedom are an advocacy group that are stepping into the fray and fighting for informed consent, parental rights, and religious and medical exemptions to vaccinations. In West Virginia, children are required to have 24 doses of vaccinations prior to kindergarten. And exemptions are hard to come by. Today you will hear from five remarkable women who are involved in this group: Chanda Adkins, a pharmacist; Afsaneh Faerber, an attorney; Holly Garrison, a chiropractor; Lori Jones, a certified natural health professional; and Elizabeth Murphy, the co-founder of West Virginians for Health Freedom. Each has a story to tell related to vaccine-injury that has motivated them to get involved in this field. These women are well-informed with stats specific to the nation and their state, in particular. They will inspire you with their determination and efforts in this endeavor. If you are uncertain about why there is a growing public outcry against vaccinations, you will find yourself moved by their questions and arguments in favor of the individual's right to refuse a vaccination for themselves or their children. And you will certainly want to roll up your sleeves and get involved in this effort for the sake of future generations. Learn more at West Virginians for Health Freedom! Listen to Del Bigtree of "Vaxxed" talk about the CDC coverup. Visit westonaprice.org for more information.

Many of us want to care for our bodies, our families, our community. Tré Cates of the Savory Institute challenges us to consider how our individual choices impact the whole world! Living holistically means looking at the big picture and considering how every choice---from where we choose to live, to the clothing we buy, to the food we eat---can move us closer to our life goals and help the earth at the same time. This interview took place at the Africa Centre for Holistic Management in Zimbabwe, a Savory Institute hub. It is a learning center that encourages people from around the world to learn to work the land in a sustainable, regenerative manner. There, Tré tells story after story about the land's restoration under proper management. This episode can help us get a better handle on managing our own lives properly. As Tré explains the holistic principles of the Savory Institute, he reminds us of our own responsibility to live sustainably. The work of the Savory Institute sheds light on the importance of cooperative, respectful, holistic attitudes that can help all of us make choices that go "beyond organic" for better health and a better world! Learn more at Savory Institute. And find more show notes at westonaprice.org.

Alzheimer’s disease seems to strike indiscriminately and those receiving the diagnosis have little reason for optimism. Conventional medicine offers medication that is designed to slow the pace of cognitive decline but seems to lack efficacy. For her new book, “The Alzheimer’s Antidote,” certified nutrition specialist Amy Berger has synthesized medical research to shed light on new options that offer relief and hope to those who suffer with Alzheimer’s and to their caregivers. In today’s conversation, Amy reveals that impaired glucose metabolism and insulin signaling are at the root of the disease. This is why some call Alzheimer’s “Type 3” diabetes. The brain is starving for fuel, in effect. Part of the solution includes giving the brain an alternate fuel source: ketones (which are found in coconut and MCT oils, for example). This episode enumerates practical steps for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, those who hope to avoid the disease in the future, and even those who simply want to sharpen their own cognitive functions. Check out Amy's website: tuitnutrition.com Visit our website: westonaprice.org

We are not alone! Did you know that we are 10 times more bacteria than we are human? The bacteria that live in (and on us) play a significant role in how our body responds to stress, food, and our environment. In today's episode, microbiologist Kiran Krishnan helps us gain a clearer understanding of the human microbiome and how it relates to our overall health. Many health conditions--including skin issues like psoriasis and eczema to diabetes and Chron's disease, to candida, yeast issues, and even arthritis and cancer--can stem from an imbalance of bacteria in the gut. Kiran explains why popping a probiotic pill is not the solution and he offers refreshingly different suggestions for what to do to improve the health and strength of your own microbiome. Visit his website: microbiomelabs.com Check out our website for more resources & podcasts: westonaprice.org

The Food and Drug Administration is considering changing the "use of the term 'healthy' in the labeling of human food products." At a recent public hearing on this topic, registered dietician Pam Schoenfeld attended and spoke, representing both the Weston A. Price Foundation and the American public. Her purpose was to remind the FDA (and all in attendance) that there are many foods right now that would not qualify as "healthy" under current (and perhaps future) labeling practice. And yet, these foods offer important nutrients that are under-represented in the diet of most Americans. In today's episode, Pam discusses exactly what she was planning on saying at the hearing, and why. She is passionate about educating the public, and public officials, about the benefits of traditional, whole, real foods. Pam, herself, came to the Wise Traditions diet later in life, and she wishes she had known many years ago what she now knows. She touches on the vitamins and minerals that are critical to our well-being--including choline and vitamin A. She talks about nutrient-density and how these foods offer what we need most. She also addresses why it's so important for us to keep advocating for real health foods (found in real food, of course) and she concludes with specific instructions for how to add your voice to this health-saving and life-critical discussion. Visit our website: westonaprice.org

We have often heard it said that water is critical for our health, but Dr. Gerald Pollack adds a surprising twist to that familiar conversation. Water has long been considered to have only three phases: liquid, solid, or gas. Jerry and his colleagues have been studying a fourth phase of water, as it appears in our bodies, called EZ or "exclusion zone" water. Jerry has written a whole book about this subject entitled "The Fourth Phase of Water." In it, and in today's conversation, he explains how our overall health is tied to the level and charge of EZ water in our bodies. He discusses the properties of EZ water and the importance of its negative charge. He makes a case for maintaining and building on the EZ water by tapping into the negative energy all around us. Jerry recommends simple steps to do this including "grounding" (getting our bare feet in contact with the earth), spending time in an infrared sauna, getting more oxygen, drinking spring water, and taking aspirin regularly. It's a fascinating conversation with some fresh ideas on how to maintain and improve our health, naturally. Visit our website: westonaprice.org

Leah McCullough was in pain, discouraged, and exhausted. She had spent the last six years of her illness in bed for 12-16 hours a day. She had tried over 50 medications with no positive results. Fibromyalgia seemed like a life sentence for Leah. She is one of 5 million sufferers in the U.S. (It is the most common musculoskeletal condition after osteoarthritis). Through her journey, Leah learned that susceptibility to disease comes from a variety of factors: toxins in our environment, damaged digestive systems, vaccinations, antibiotics, poor nutrition, our genetic makeup and even our outlook and attitudes. Leah was determined to turn things around. Healing began with meditation and prayer. It continued through adopting the Wise Traditions diet, addressing her leaky gut, and assisting her body with detoxification. She now reaches out to help others diagnosed with fibromyalgia and other autoimmune diseases. The story of how she regained her health will inspire you to make changes of your own! Visit Leah's website: unconventionaltraditional.com Check out our website for more resources: westonaprice.org

There's a lot of confusion around what constitutes a healthy fat. In today's episode, Sally Fallon Morell, the head of the Weston A. Price Foundation, makes a solid case for including animal fats in our diet, based on her book “Nourishing fats: why we need animal fats for health and happiness.” For decades, animal fats and saturated fats have been maligned as unhealthy, but the evidence points in the opposite direction. It's time to unlearn the propaganda and become reacquainted with the happy, healthy truth. Saturated fats have an important role to play in our physical and emotional wellness. Sally tells the history of when & why companies began pushing their pseudo oils and fats. And she then gives the science behind why animal fats are so beneficial--how they have been found to be protective against cancer, and provide vitamins A, D, and K that are essential for proper neurological function and emotional well-being, for example. You will hear specifics about how and why butter, lard and tallow can all be embraced as part of your daily diet. Once you do so, you and your family will be all the healthier (and happier) for it! Visit our website: westonaprice.org

Vaccines in the United States are required at birth, for daycare, school and college enrollment, for military members, foreign adoptions and more. Why the big push to vaccinate ourselves and our children? Learn about the influences that affect our vaccination policies and about your rights related to vaccinations. Alan Phillips, the nation’s leading vaccine rights attorney, speaks with authority about what shapes the vaccine industry and how it has become corrupted by money and power. He is convinced that vaccine policy law is “really a pharmaceutical marketing policy much more than it is a genuine health policy.” And he cites legal evidence to make his case. Consequently, his life’s mission is to help individuals understand their rights to obtain vaccine exemptions and waivers. Thanks to today’s conversation, you will better understand the big picture and be equipped to make a more informed decision about how to proceed when it comes to the vaccination issue and safeguarding your family’s health. Visit our website for more resources: westonaprice.org

Processed foods, prescription medicines, sugar, toxins in and around us--these are feeding the bad bacteria in our gut and compromising our gut health, and consequently our overall health. Certified holistic health counselor Hilary Boynton discusses how to address a leaky gut and reverse the trend of deteriorating health. She knows what she's talking about since she and her family have faced many health challenges of their own, including eczema, epilepsy, infertility, and cancer. You will be riveted by her story and encouraged by the practical steps she gives for approaching the well-known GAPS (gut and psychology syndrome) diet to heal the gut. Hear Hilary recount how her family got started on the GAPS diet and how they have benefited from it. Her son, who at two years of age couldn't speak and who was on the autistic spectrum, is now her "smartest kid," reading and writing at grade level. For other children, speech delays disappeared and skin issues resolved. Her daughter had fewer epileptic seizures. Her husband lost weight. As the author of the "Heal your gut cookbook," Hilary has heard from many whose lives have also benefited from the GAPS diet and a new emphasis on real food for lasting health. Visit Hilary's website: liveyumyum.com For more resources, visit our website: westonaprice.org

Daphne Olivier has a genetic pre-disposition to diabetes. Since she doesn’t have it (yet), she is doing all that is within her power to keep it that way. But she is not keeping her secrets to herself. She is a dietician and a certified diabetes educator who can help all of us understand it better, learn how to manage it with real food, and discover how to avoid it altogether, as she has done. Daphne has a private nutrition practice in Louisiana where she has seen it all! She works with people with varying degrees of metabolic disorders including insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, pre-diabetes, types 1 and 2 diabetes, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. In today's episode, she discusses strategies to recover health, including getting adequate sleep, avoiding stress, and eating less processed food. Daphne's private practice is called "My Food Coach" and in today's show, she coaches all of us to adopt the "best lifestyle" to maintain and regain our health. Visit Daphne's website: theunconlventionaldietician.com For more resources, visit: westonaprice.org

Glyphosate is a weed-killer considered "safe" and "non-toxic" by the FDA and EPA but scientist Stephanie Seneff believes otherwise. And she is not alone! An avid researcher and brilliant mind (Stephanie holds a PhD from MIT), Stephanie will convince you that we should take a second look at this pervasive herbicide that is used in your neighborhood and on industrial farms, across the nation, and around the world. Touted as a help to battle pesky weeds and improve our crop yields, it may be unintentionally damaging our health in unprecedented measure. Studies have shown that glyphosate is problematic and Stephanie is convinced that it is contributing to the rising incidence of auto-immune disorders including autism, ADHD, diabetes, Alzheimers, and more. She discusses in today's episode how to avoid it (eating an organic diet is key) and how to take action to help stop its encroachment on the health of the human race. Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

There is more to food than meets the eye! Food has energy that ascends and descends, and warms and cools our bodies. Conventional western medicine focuses on the physical. But Dr. Kenneth Morehead explains how limited that approach can be. He is a licensed doctor of oriental medicine and is a nationally board-certified acupuncture orthopedist. As such, he has quite a different take on how to approach wellness! In today's episode, he covers a myriad of topics, originating from oriental medicinal principles. He looks at how specific foods affect our vitality. He discusses how our eating habits and diet should change as we age. And he discusses the effects of a variety of foods and how they can help address health concerns. Dr. Morehead's main objective is to teach us to pay attention to our bodies so that we can achieve better balance and health. Visit his website: orientalhealthsolutions.com Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

For decades, heart patients have been treated with stents, bypass procedures, low-fat diets, and drugs to lower their cholesterol. The theory that heart attacks are caused by blockages in the arteries is accepted as the last word on heart disease. And this explains why doctors work tirelessly to unblock them. But what if the theory is incorrect? What if blockages aren't actually the cause of heart attacks? Dr. Tom Cowan brings some surprising data to light that puts into question the cause and treatments of cardiovascular disease, and heart attacks, in particular. He explains how the heart can effectively create its own "bypass" when major arteries are clogged. He points to remarkable studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of a little-known plant to treat angina. And he gives some sound advice about how to avoid heart disease altogether--including eating a nutrient-dense diet, avoiding stress, and living in a way that nurtures the parasympathetic nervous system. For more from Dr. Tom Cowan, visit his website: fourfoldhealing.com For resources from the Weston A. Price Foundation, visit our website: westonaprice.org

Some trendy diets restrict the intake of grains. It's no wonder why! Many people seem to be gluten-intolerant or have sensitivities to wheat. Others are simply trying to eat low-carb for weight loss. But we may be unnecessarily depriving ourselves of foods that can benefit our health and have been enjoyed world-wide for thousands of years. Looking to the traditions of the past, we discover the secret for including grains, seeds, and nuts in our diet today. In this episode, Sally Fallon Morell, the President of the Weston A. Price Foundation, explains principle #6 of the Wise Traditions diet: how to ferment, soak, and sprout grains, seeds, and nuts for optimal nutrition and ease of digestion. She goes into detail about the benefits of the preparation processes, and of the risks that result when we do not take care to prepare these foods in this way. Best of all, she gives clear tips for what steps we can take to begin eating seeds, nuts, and grains prepared in the traditional manner. In a nutshell, she answers the question "Should we eat grains?" with a resounding "Yes!" Visit Sally's blog: nourishingtraditions.com Check out our website: westonaprice.org

Forget the resolutions! Fitness guru Ben Greenfield wants you to look beyond food and exercise to improve your wellbeing in this new year! In today's episode, he discusses the importance of invisible variables that affect our health. We can eat the cleanest, most pure diet in the world and yet, at the same time, neglect some important factors that affect our bodies in significant ways. Our environment and how we interact with it has a powerful effect on our health. Ben dives into the spirit and the science related to maximizing our bodies' potential. He explores the effect of music on the spirit, vitamin D on the heart and skin, and the stress-reduction that comes with being surrounded by nature. He touches on posture, sunshine, and clean air. He reviews the physiological impact of our ever-connected lives (with computers, wifi radiation, bluetooth technology and more) and gives ideas on how to mitigate the damage. This conversation is as invigorating as a brisk walk on a winter morning. Visit our website here. Check out Ben's website at bengreenfieldfitness.com.

Do you feel like a ball of symptoms? Like one thing after another is going wrong with your body? Your body is sending you a message that something is off. It's time to stop suppressing symptoms. It's time to begin digging deeper to find the path to healing. Today, you will hear from guests from three of our most popular episodes in 2016! The common thread from all three is the need to go with your gut when it comes to improving your health. You'll hear from holistic doctor Dr. Tom Cowan, dairy farmer Charlotte Smith, and world-renown neurological and nutrition expert Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride. Each guest advocates listening to your heart, inquiring with your mind, and believing what your gut is telling you about what your body needs to regain health and balance. This episode challenges you to bring some healthy skepticism to your approach to wellness, to make dietary changes to help heal your gut, to try something new. Visit our website: westonaprice.org. Dr. Tom Cowan's website: fourfoldhealing.com Charlotte Smith's website: 3cowmarketing.com Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride's website: dr-natasha.com

All of us want to have happy, healthy children. Diet makes a difference in our own health; naturally, it makes a difference for our children's health, as well. But can what we eat before we even become pregnant affect our baby's health? What about our diet during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding? Sandrine Perez addresses all of the above in today's discussion. Sandrine is the founder and head of Nourishing Our Children, a project of the Weston A. Price Foundation. Established in 2005, the mission of Nourishing Our Children is to educate and inspire parents to return to the whole, natural foods that have produced generation after generation of healthy children. Sandrine sets forth exactly what foods help the babies develop well in the womb, and which foods should be avoided. The information she shares is based on the research of Dr. Weston A. Price, that showed a strong tie between the diet of the mother and the health of her offspring. Over the years, Sandrine has seen proof of the efficacy of this diet, with mother after mother in her community birthing and raising healthy, happy children following the guidelines set forth in today's episode. Whether you are a mother now (or hope to be one at some juncture), this show is for you. Learn now what to eat pre-conception, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding for the sake of future generations. Visit our website: westonaprice.org Join Nourished Children 2.0 https://www.facebook.com/groups/nouri... & Nourished 2.0 https://www.facebook.com/groups/nouri...

This is an important episode on a very controversial topic: vaccines. Producer Del Bigtree gives the back story on how he got involved in the making of the movie “Vaxxed.” The focus of the movie is on Dr. William Thompson, the whistleblower at the Center for Disease Control who exposed the manipulation of the results of a study on one vaccine: the MMR (measles/mumps/rubella). Some question the motives of the key players in this explosive story--Brian Hooker, Dr. Andrew Wakefield and Dr. Thompson. But Bigtree, in this conversation, calls into question the motives of those trying to silence him (and others) who want to help parents make informed decisions when it comes to vaccinations. Del brings up much food for thought in this conversation. He touches on California’s SB 277 law, which restricts parental rights, by mandating vaccinations for children to attend school, making no allowances for exemptions. He discusses the CDC’s goal, called “Healthy People 2020," that is pushing for 100% compliance with the adult vaccination schedule. With his movie, and in this interview, Bigtree’s goal is to alert Americans to the threats to their civil liberties, and to motivate them to advocate for their own health and the health of their children. Check out Del's website and channel: theHighwire.com. Visit our website: westonaprice.org.

What is mead and why should you make it? (And why should you make it like a Viking, of all things?!) Jereme Zimmerman, the author of “Make mead like a Viking,” explains all of the above in this light-hearted episode. Mead is a unique honey-based fermented drink that is simple and fun to make. Jereme unlocks the brewing secrets of the ancient Norse, as he demystifies the process of home-brewing mead. You’ll learn lots about mead today and you'll hear Jeremy’s own story about he got into brewing it, and how he began to embrace the natural, homesteading lifestyle. In the conversation, Jereme makes a case for including more ferments in our diets. There are health benefits related to making your own ferments, of course (whether you're making mead, kombucha, sauerkraut, or kefir). The active enzymes and probiotics in such foods are great for gut health; the antioxidants are cancer-fighting agents; and our immune systems benefit from all of the above. But our lives are enhanced by more than just the physical boost of these foods. Making mead (and other fermented foods) requires cooperation with nature, which makes us more sensitive to life's beauty and mystery. And in the process of mead-making, bonds are built with the community around us. So, get to making your fermented drink and raise a glass to your health! Visit Jereme's website: jereme-zimmerman.com Check out our website: westonaprice.org

Tired of food battles and complaints at the dinner table? Do you worry that your kids not getting enough of the good stuff? Does your idea of whipping up a quick meal include a visit to the neighborhood fast food restaurant? Kelly Moeggenborg has been there and done that. Today, she has tips to help you transition your family to a more nutrient-dense, real food diet. She also has practical suggestions that will save you both time and money. Kelly understands the challenges parents face because she is still in the trenches herself. This is one reason she launched the “Kelly the Kitchen Kop” blog in 2008; she wanted to build a community where people could exchange ideas about how to best overcome poor dietary patterns. You will enjoy learning from all she has gleaned over the years and will most certainly walk away with a tip or two that you can apply immediately that will improve your own health and that of your family. Visit Kelly's website: kellythekitchenkop.com For more resources, see our website: westonaprice.org

Will Harris. a fourth-generation cattleman, is the owner of White Oak Pastures in Bluffton, GA. Will attended the University of Georgia's School of Agriculture, where he was trained in industrial farming methods. But in 1995, he decided to turn things around and return to farming the land in the manner his great-grandfather had done, 130 years before. He does not use pesticides and chemical fertilizers on the land or antibiotics or growth hormones on the animals. As Will puts it, "We take care of the land and herd, and they take care of us." This is why his farming method is farming at its best, and as it should be. His family and farm employees consistently look out for the animals, the land, and the people who produce and consume their goods.Their production practices are fair, sustainable, and humane. In today's episode, Will tells the story of the beauty and benefits of regenerative agriculture. Not only will you be charmed by his southern drawl but you will also come to understand how and why he transitioned to regenerative agriculture and how you can support this movement. It begins with knowing your farmer and proceeds with making conscious decisions about what you put on your plate. A healthy diet for people begins with a healthy environment on the farm where the food was cultivated and raised. Check out White Oak Pastures farm here. For more resources, see our website: westonaprice.org

Jeffrey Smith is is the founder and leader of the institute for Responsible Technology. He is also a bestselling author, filmmaker, and expert on genetically-modified organisms. In today's episode, he carefully and thoroughly explains what GMOs are, what crops have been genetically modified in the U.S., the impact they have had on our health and what we can do about their growing presence in our diets. Jeffrey has had years of extensive research on the topic. He refutes what the FDA says about their safety, and he busts some myths related to GMOs (that they can help feed the world, and that they reduce the amount of pesticides used by farmers, for example). He also provides clear evidence to support their detrimental effects on animals and people. Problems associated with GMO foods include: gastrointestinal problems, immune system issues, reproductive damage, and conditions that affect organ function. Studies also point to premature death, tumors, possible cancer, and hormone disruption. Some people suffer brain fog, fibromyalgia, immune system concerns, anxiety, depression, pain, headaches, and skin conditions, as a result of eating GMO food. The list of concerns is long, but there is still hope. Jeffrey gives concrete tips about how to protect yourself and your family from the health risk GMOs pose. He also makes a plea for activism to make a difference on a larger scale. Visit his website: Institute for Responsible Technology For more resources go to our website: westonaprice.org

Many of us see mold as an unsightly annoyance or an occasional irritant to our breathing, but it's much more than that! Cheryl Ciecko, a licensed architect, explains how it is a toxin that can easily grow in our office buildings or homes, and threaten our health. Cheryl's ten-year-old daughter started having health concerns that seemed to appear overnight. She struggled with migraines and coughing fits; the doctors diagnosed asthma. Finally, they were able to pinpoint mold as the culprit of her deteriorating health. They found it in their home's duct work. There are many other places mold can grow, undetected. In this episode, you'll learn about the myths associated with mold (for example, it is commonly thought that bleach can remediate it, but it cannot), where it can grow, how it affects your health, and how to guard against it in your own home. Visit Cheryl's website: cherylcieko.com For more resources, see our website: westonaprice.org

Mercury is recognized by health organizations across the globe as toxic to humans. However many of us are unaware of our exposure to it and how it is negatively impacting our health and causing chronic conditions and diseases. Dr. Andy Cutler has a PhD in chemistry from Princeton, and a BS in physics from the University of California. He himself struggled with symptoms that no doctor could explain. He discovered that the root cause of his issues was mercury toxicity caused by the amalgam fillings in his own mouth. On a quest to improve his own health, Andy became a pioneer of a form of chelation for metal toxicity that is unique in its approach, and is safe and successful, where many others are not. In today’s episode you will learn about the symptoms of mercury toxicity and how they can be addressed to restore health. We can be exposed to mercury in many ways, including through "silver" fillings, vaccinations, and various consumer products. Andy points to mercury as the underlying cause of conditions such as MS, Parkinsons, allergies, asthma, chronic fatigue, and autism. Mercury toxicity can also be at the root of depression, anxiety, ADD, memory issues, fibromyalgia, asthma, OCD, autoimmune disorders, brain fog, nervous system disorders, developmental delays, and more. Andy has a pragmatic chelation protocol which will help those with heavy metal toxicity find relief and health. Visit Andy's website here. For more resources see our website: westonaprice.org

Athletes seek to maximize their performance, often at the expense of their long-term health and longevity. Ben, a former bodybuilder, is an ironman triathlete, speaker, and author who understands how to nourish the body for both peak results and optimal health. He has a bachelor's and master's degree from the University of Idaho in sports science and exercise physiology. Ben coaches and trains individuals for general health, longevity, weight loss, lean muscle gain, holistic wellness, and sports performance--using a real food protocol. Says Ben, “I love getting fit, feeling good about the way my body looks, and fulfilling my deep-seeded drive to live life to the fullest by achieving difficult feats of physical performance. But I was fed up with feeling like crap from all the extreme exercising, strange foods, feeling of constant stress and soreness, and worry about the toll my hectic lifestyle was taking on my body. So I have found a way of training, eating and living that is perfectly healthy and natural, but still allows me to look, feel and perform at my peak capabilities.” As a consultant to many athletes, Ben has noticed a trend of acne, digestive issues, and adrenal issues that plague those who fuel their bodies with what Ben calls "franken fuels." In today's episode, he contrasts popular sports drinks, gels, and bars with the real fuel the athlete needs to turbocharge their performance without sacrificing gut health. He gets into the science of how various proteins, fats, and carbs work in our bodies. He talks about his own sweet spot of carb/protein/fat percentages and what foods he recommends for everyone to include in their diet. Check out Ben's website: bengreenfieldfitness.com Visit our website for more resources: westonaprice.org

This is the question many of us are asking! There is a grave health crisis that is affecting the next generation. In increasing numbers, children and young people are struggling with allergies, eczema, inflammatory conditions, autism, autoimmune disorders, asthma, reflux, sensory issues, GI issues, ADHD, and more. In today's episode, Beth Lambert describes the "perfect storm" that is assailing our children's health. She also has several ideas in how to navigate that storm. Beth has an M.A. from Fairfield University, with a concentration in American Healthcare. The mother of three young children, Beth's interest in health concerns grew as she dealt with her own daughter's "leaky gut." Conventional medicine didn't have answers beyond some therapies and pharmaceutical drugs. Beth wanted something more. She overhauled her family's diet and their environment and was able to turn her daughter's health around in approximately nine months. Her eyes were opened to the need around her, as she observed that other families were also in crisis related to their children's health issues. She went on to do extensive research and is now the author of "A compromised generation." You will be encouraged by Beth's story and the health improvements of others that she recounts, who are a part of her "Documenting Hope" project. Visit Beth's website: documentinghope.com For more resources, see our website: westonaprice.org

Nina Teicholz spent nearly a decade researching nutrition policy and dietary fat, culminating in the publication of her spellbinding book "The Big Fat Surprise." In it, she explains the politics, personalities, and history of how we came to believe that dietary fat is bad for health. Her book was the first mainstream publication to make the full argument for why saturated fats–the kind found in dairy, meat, and eggs–are not bad for health. In today's episode, she discusses what initially propelled her to pursue this topic. The answers (and stonewalling) she encountered on her quest to find out more are eye-opening. What she discovered has led her to become an advocate for changing our diets to improve our health. Steps include avoiding vegetable oils and, of course, embracing saturated fats in their place. See Nina's website: thebigfatsurprise.com Visit our website for more resources: westonaprice.org

Traditional diets are high in enzymes and beneficial bacteria. Lacto-fermented foods are prepared by cultures worldwide to preserve food, boost their vitamin and mineral content, and aid digestion. In today's episode, Sally Fallon Morell, the head of the Weston A. Price Foundation, explains Principle #5 of the Wise Traditions diet: how all traditional peoples include lacto-fermented foods in their diets. She gets specific about the foods that are particular to various regions around the world--like sauerkraut, pickles, kimchi, fermented fish, yogurt, kefir, and such. She discusses the fermentation process and gives the scientific basis for embracing these foods in our modern diet. She touts the improved vitamin and mineral content of such foods, their protective characteristics against disease (including cancer), and how they boost the immune system. She gives practical advice for how to begin introducing these foods into your diet. If you apply her tips, your tastebuds will be thrilled and your health will greatly benefit! Check out Sally's blog: nourishingtraditions.com Visit our website at westonaprice.org

Bone broth is growing in popularity for all of the right reasons. It offers an astounding number of benefits for our health. In today's episode, chef Lance Roll explains how first and foremost, it helps heal our gut, improving our digestion and the absorption of nutrients from all that we eat. Broth has anti-inflammatory properties, in addition to healthy fats and minerals. It makes an excellent recovery drink for athletes and many consider it something of a "weight loss secret." You can hear the excitement in Lance's voice as he tells stories about individuals whose conditions cleared up from eczema and leaky gut, to ulcerative colitis. Lance was once a chef who was primarily concerned with making flavorful dishes; since he became familiar with the Weston A. Price Foundations and the Wise Traditions diet, he makes sure to cook up dishes that are nutrient-dense, as well as flavorful! Visit his website: bonebroth.com For more resources, see our website: westonaprice.org

After fostering and adopting a number of children, Mandy Lee became inspired to step out and reach more people with the message of health recovery through real food. Her vision is to impact foster children and foster homes. She has a passion for changing the world, starting with those in the U.S. foster care system. In today's episode, she talks about how she helps children transition from the standard American diet (S.A.D.) to real food. She has witnessed first-hand the turn-around that takes place when children are fed food that has the power to nourish and heal. Her Real Food Recovery protocol follows simple healing principles that can be applied to anyone's life. Visit her website: realfoodrecovery.org For more resources, go to our website: westonaprice.org

Sandeep Agarwal had a young son with chronic health conditions--he caught colds easily, had chest congestion, and developed asthma. As Sandeep began to research ways to help him, he came across the principles of the Weston A. Price Foundation. They resonated with him, as he remembered the foods his ancestors enjoyed in India; they included raw milk, full fat foods, and ghee. In today's episode, you will hear the results of Sandeep's research, which led him to ancient Indian texts that confirmed what he saw playing out in his own family: that traditional foods support and enhance our health. He discovered that ayurvedic traditions embraced raw milk and ghee for their healing properties. His family tweaked their diet to include these foods and they also began avoiding sweets, and making other dietary changes that followed the wise tradition principles. Today, they enjoy good health and they run a business which provides organic ghee and other Indian spices and foods. Visit his website: pureindianfoods.com For more resources, see our website: westonaprice.org

Linda Elsegood suffered from MS and was wheelchair-bound, when she first heard about LDN, low dose naltrexone. She researched it and began taking it around 2000. Her health and life turned around. Motivated to help others, she has since edited "The LDN book" and hosted conferences to educate medical professionals and lay people alike. LDN can be an effective treatment for a variety of autoimmune disorders including alopecia (hair loss), Crohn's, cancer, autism, depression, restless leg syndrome, asthma, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and Lyme disease. Though it is a pharmaceutical drug, many consider it to be a sort of holistic medication, because of its safety and efficacy. In this episode, you'll hear about the original uses of LDN and its off-label uses that are showing tremendous success. You'll her about the doctors who are currently conducting studies to learn more; and discover resources to educate yourself on LDN. Visit her website: ldnresearchtrust.org Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

Dr. Louisa Williams is a naturopathic doctor who is committed to helping people restore their health by getting to the true root or underlying cause of disease. In today’s episode, she touches on some lesser known “obstacles to cure” and gives practical ideas for finding the best dental and overall health care to achieve the optimal and vibrant health that is our most important birthright. She discusses the underlying issues that may be linked to chronic auto-immune diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, lupus, and Lymes disease. She even addresses dental focal infections, root canals, gingivitis and more. She tells you what to look for when searching for a dentist, and how to protect your health proactively. She leaves no stone unturned as she explains in simple terms the way our bodies function and how everything is interconnected. Visit Louisa's website: louisawilliamsnd.com Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

Every traditional culture ate some form of their animal foods raw. Every culture also cooked some of their food. In today's episode, Sally Fallon Morell explains the benefits of both cooking some food and eating some raw. While cooking does destroy enzymes, it also can make certain foods easier to digest (particularly vegetables). Eating raw animal foods ensures that we can enjoy the benefits of certain enzymes and particularly vitamin B6. Sally describes various dishes from around the world that feature raw meat or fish products (such as steak tartare). She also gives ideas for those new to the idea of consuming raw animal products. She suggests starting with dairy products, like raw milk or cheese. Many who recommend a raw diet would not include raw animal products in the mix. But Sally points out that science backs this traditional practice. She affirms that raw animal products can increase our energy and mental clarity, and help improve various body functions. Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

When the Weston A. Price Foundation (WAPF) says that it's committed to "food, farming and the healing arts," they mean it. In today's episode, you'll hear directly from the office staff members about WAPF's mission. The bottom line? WAPF is a non-profit group dedicated to restoring nutrient-dense foods to the human diet through education, research and activism. It supports a number of movements that contribute to this objective including accurate nutrition instruction, organic and biodynamic farming, pasture-feeding of livestock, community-supported farms, honest and informative labeling, prepared parenting and nurturing therapies. Specific goals include establishment of universal access to clean, certified raw milk and a ban on the use of soy formula for infants. The backbone of WAPF is its members. They are the ones that know exactly what's going on in their own neighborhoods, and counties (and countries), and they are most able to mobilize when action is required to defend food freedom and to help disseminate important food resource information. In particular, there are 600 chapter leaders worldwide who puts hands and feet to the work that is needed to help restore and maintain the health of people all over the world. In today's episode, you will get a glimpse of the office work of the WAPF staff, which undergirds what is happening "in the field," so to speak. You'll also learn about WAPF's most current projects (such as their international outreach efforts). Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

Do you want the option of buying raw milk legally in your state? Would you like to have chickens in your backyard? The Farm to Consumer Legal Defense Fund (FTCLDF) works hard to defend your right to obtain the food of your choice from the source of your choice. Pete Kennedy, an attorney in Florida, is on the board of the FTCLDF and he has personally been involved in representing and counseling farmers who are simply trying to provide local, sustainable foods to their neighbors, schools, and grocery stores. Many of us know that good health begins at the dining room table. The healthiest diets are those made up of nutrient-dense, organic foods from small local farmers, not from the industrial food complex. Listen to Pete and learn about the influences at play on what is available to us as consumers, and how you can make a difference in the fight for food freedom. Visit this website: farmtoconsumer.org Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

There is lots of controversy and discussion on the topic of vaccination these days—some touting their benefits and others, their risks. Cilla Whatcott stays above the fray. She is not interested in being a part of any camp, but rather wants to empower parents and health care professionals about their choices, by educating them about homeopathy and homeoprophylaxis (HP). In today’s episode, you will become familiar with this safe alternative to vaccination. Some call HP the “green vaccine” because it does not cause harm but rather provides natural protection against disease. The goal of homeopathy is to educate the immune system and to help the body rediscover how to heal itself. Homeopathy combats chronic health issues including recurring ear infections, asthma, coughs, and more. Cilla has a PhD in homeopathy, which she pursued after her one year-old daughter became ill with aseptic meningitis. She is the Director of Worldwide Choice and is a strong advocate for health care options. Visit her website: familyhomeopathycare.com Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

In her twenties, Razi Berry was suffering from fibromyalgia, fatigue, and pain. Her doctors told her that she should go on medication and disability for the rest of her life. Unwilling to accept their prognosis, Razi became her own "health detective." She began exploring alternatives and came upon naturopathic therapies that have helped restore her to full health today. She had fertility issues, hair loss, and more. Now, she enjoys good health and vitality. She is the host of a podcast, homeschools her two young daughters and oversees the award-winning journal, "The Naturopathic Doctor News & Review." Naturally, Razi is a proponent of organic, whole foods over fad diets. Her heart's desire is to empower people to take charge of their health and discover the vibrant health they were intended to enjoy. Visit Razi's website: loveismedicineproject.com Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org

As a young environmentalist, Allan Savory was convinced that animals were overgrazing, and therefore, turning fertile land into deserts. Many scientists held that same opinion (and some still do). Now, Allan believes that livestock are "our only hope" for greening the world's deserts and reversing climate change. In today's episode, he explains in detail why many efforts to restore the earth (involving the use of technology, fire, rest, or planting trees or crops) are ineffective or temporary solutions, at best. He addresses directly some of the ideas presented in the movie "Cowspiracy," including his "tragic error" of culling elephant herds (which he and others thought would help heal the land---it did not). The health of the land is tied to our own. Together we can make a difference in the preservation of our world for the survival of what Allan calls "team humanity." Visit his website: savory.global Find more resources on our website: westonaprice.org