Metabolical: The Lure and the Lies of Processed Food, Nutrition, and Modern Medicine.

Dr. Robert Lustig discussed the importance of reading labels and avoiding processed foods during a recent conversation. He emphasized that whole grains have a reduced fiber content after being pulverized or milled. Dr. Lustig also highlighted the negative effects of sugar on the body, such as fructose's impact on the liver and the risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). He recommended limiting fruit consumption to avoid excessive fructose intake, but considered fresh fruit acceptable. Dr. Lustig shared his personal journey towards healthier eating habits, revealing that he used to eat poorly as a medical student but has since made significant changes to his diet. He also discussed the potential benefits of fermented foods like cheese and yogurt, stressing the importance of choosing products with live cultures for maximum probiotic benefit. Additionally, Dr. Lustig emphasized the value of whole grains in a healthy diet while cautioning against processed or milled versions of these grains. He answered questions from the audience regarding alcohol consumption and the impact of different types of sugar on the body. Overall, the conversation provided valuable insights into the importance of reading labels, limiting processed food intake, and making informed choices about sugar and fiber content in our diets.