103 episodes

In my line of work, I am continually confronted with the need to address patients’ social and psychological problems, and I have come to realise that my prescription pad is less critical than my ears and my referral networks. I believe that listening to patients and helping them address their psychological and social issues Is vital for long term health. Every week I discuss a topical issue with friends and colleagues, all of whom are experts in what they do. Together we unpack and analyse complex problems that affect our society and hopefully we can come to some meaningful conclusions that can benefit us all in our daily lives.Visit our website for more information and free courses https://www.meducate.com.au/courses

MedHeads Dr Ferghal Armstrong - MRCGP

    • Health & Fitness
    • 5.0 • 1 Rating

In my line of work, I am continually confronted with the need to address patients’ social and psychological problems, and I have come to realise that my prescription pad is less critical than my ears and my referral networks. I believe that listening to patients and helping them address their psychological and social issues Is vital for long term health. Every week I discuss a topical issue with friends and colleagues, all of whom are experts in what they do. Together we unpack and analyse complex problems that affect our society and hopefully we can come to some meaningful conclusions that can benefit us all in our daily lives.Visit our website for more information and free courses https://www.meducate.com.au/courses

    The Science of Ketogenic Diets and Their Impact on Health and Weight Loss

    The Science of Ketogenic Diets and Their Impact on Health and Weight Loss

    In this episode of "Lifestyle Matters," Dr. Ferghal Armstrong engages in an in-depth discussion with Charmmy Cheng, a dietitian, about the ketogenic diet. They cover the key aspects of the diet, including its emphasis on high-fat, low-carb intake and its potential impact on weight loss, diabetes management, and cardiovascular health.
    The conversation delves into the pros and cons of the diet, its potential side effects, and the challenges of incorporating it into different cultural cuisines. Providing valuable insights and practical advice, Charmmy highlights the importance of professional guidance in both starting and discontinuing a ketogenic diet.
    Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ketogenic diet and its implications for overall health and well-being.

    • 27 min
    The Mind Diet: Optimising Brain Health and Reducing Alzheimer's Risk

    The Mind Diet: Optimising Brain Health and Reducing Alzheimer's Risk

    Matters! In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Charmmy Cheng delve into the fascinating world of the mind diet – a blend of the Mediterranean and DASH diets. Learn about the science-backed benefits of this dietary approach to brain health and gain insight into the specific foods to emphasise and limit for optimal cognitive function.

    **Key Points:**

    - Dr Ferghal and Charmmy elucidate the origins of the mind diet, its emphasis on a whole food, plant-based approach with low salt and plenty of olive oil. They discuss the role of the mind diet in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's and the slowed brain aging effect.

    - Charmmy breaks down the ten recommended food types and the five to limit, highlighting the importance of berries for their antioxidants. She also explains the impact of alcohol and the reasoning behind limiting red meat and fried foods.

    - The significance of metabolic health and the relationship between diet, vascular health, and brain health is discussed, providing a holistic perspective on the mind diet.

    **Learning Outcomes:**

    1. Gain an understanding of the origins and underlying principles of the mind diet and its specific focus on brain health and cognitive function.

    2. Identify the ten types of foods recommended and the five to limit in the mind diet, and comprehend the rationale behind these recommendations.

    3. Understand the role of metabolic and vascular health in relation to brain health and how the mind diet leverages these connections for overall cognitive well-being.

    **Actionable Takeaways:**

    1. Incorporate more whole grain carbohydrates, vegetables, nuts, beans, and high omega-3 fatty fish into your diet to support brain health and cognitive function.

    2. Consider the mind diet’s recommendation to limit red meat, fried foods, full-fat cheese, and pastries for a more brain-healthy dietary approach.

    3. Be mindful of the importance of berries as a source of antioxidants and consider their inclusion in your diet for cognitive well-being.

    4. Aim for a moderate salt intake and consider lower sodium options when using condiments and sauces for cooking.

    **Quote:**

    "The mind diet augments nuts and pushes away red meat, which underscores the link between metabolic health, vascular health, and brain health." - Dr Ferghal Armstrong

    • 18 min
    Understanding Sodium and the DASH Diet

    Understanding Sodium and the DASH Diet

    In this episode, our host, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and guest, Charmmy Cheng, the expert dietitian from The Dietitian's Kitchen, explore the intricacies of the DASH diet and the crucial role of sodium in our daily lives.
    Dr. Armstrong and Charmmy Cheng discuss the significance of sodium, its impacts on the body when consumed in excessive or insufficient amounts, and its association with conditions such as hypertension. They uncover the details of the DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, and how it can aid in managing high blood pressure.
    The conversation delves into the specifics of the DASH diet, revealing the ideal food groups, recommended servings, and the challenges of limiting sodium intake, especially in Asian cuisine. They highlight the importance of reading food labels and provide valuable insights for implementing the DASH diet, including practical tips for meal planning and navigating through hidden sources of sodium in packaged and processed foods.
    Join us as we unravel the complexities of sodium, explore the intricacies of the DASH diet, and gain practical advice on managing sodium intake in our daily diets. Stay tuned for an enlightening discussion that could transform the way you approach your dietary choices.

    • 26 min
    The Health Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet: A Deep Dive with Charmmy Cheng

    The Health Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet: A Deep Dive with Charmmy Cheng

    Are you interested in improving your lifestyle through diet? In our latest episode of Lifestyle Matters, we delved into the world of the Mediterranean diet with dietitian Charmmy Cheng. Discover the evidence-based benefits for heart health, diabetes prevention, and even the management of depression. Learn about the key components of the diet, the role of alcohol, and how to adapt it to different cultural cuisines. Find out how simple dietary changes can have a significant impact on your long-term health. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on lifestyle and health on Lifestyle Matters

    • 23 min
    Breathing our way through lifestyle changes

    Breathing our way through lifestyle changes

    Dr Barton Jennings and I explore the pillars of lifestyle medicine and its impact on our lungs, especially in the context of lung disease. 

    • 23 min
    Nature vs Nurture in Preconception Care

    Nature vs Nurture in Preconception Care

    'Preconception care is about optimising one's health before trying to get pregnant. This in turn can increase fertility and reduce complications. This week, Dr Debby and I explore the importance of lifestyle factors in preconception care.

    • 26 min

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