Start the new year with our January Health Series, where we dive into expert advice on healthy eating, gut health, and understanding ultra-processed foods to he...
Dr Alex George on navigating mental fitness, healthy living and his experience with sobriety
In the final episode of our health series, Dr. Alex George, a renowned presenter, best-selling author, and the UK government's Youth Mental Health Ambassador joins host Samuel Goldsmith. Dr. Alex opens up about the importance of mental fitness, his personal journey with ADHD, and the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle. He shares tips on creating sustainable habits, the role of diet and exercise in mental health, and the significance of purpose and values in life. The conversation is heartfelt, informative, and a must-listen for anyone interested in improving their mental and physical well-being.
Alex is also the co-founder of Mettle, the mental fitness app for men and has become a well-known and respected figure amongst healthcare professionals in the UK, from his years as an A&E doctor, bringing the nation accessible and reassuring advice directly from the frontline throughout the pandemic.
Most recently, Alex published his fourth book, 'A Better Day Journal: Fun and Calming Activities for Positive Mental Health' in January 2024.
This episode contains discussions around mental health challenges, grief, alcohol use and sobriety, ADHD, medication, and anxiety. If you find any of these topics difficult, please listen with care. If you are struggling with any of these issues, we encourage you to seek support from a trusted professional, such as your GP, a licensed therapist, or a support organisation.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
--------
1:03:40
Let's cook together: Dosa
Cook-a-long with Samuel Goldsmith, in this bonus recipe episode. Find the recipe at goodfood.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
--------
8:25
Meditation expert Jillian Lavender on how meditation can help with a healthy diet and mind
In this enlightening episode of the Good Food podcast host Samuel Goldsmith sits down with renowned meditation expert and author Jillian Lavender. Dive deep into the world of Vedic meditation and explore how this ancient practice can transform not only your mental well-being but also your relationship with food. Jillian shares her personal experiences, scientific insights, and practical advice on integrating meditation into a busy lifestyle. Discover how meditation can improve digestion, influence better dietary choices, and help you achieve a balanced state of mind and body. Whether you’re a long-time practitioner or new to the concept, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for everyone looking to enhance their overall health. Tune in for an engaging discussion that bridges the gap between mindfulness and mindful eating.
Key Topics Covered: Vedic Meditation: Origins and Benefits - The Science Behind Meditation - Meditation’s Role in Digestive Health - Practical Tips for Integrating Meditation into Daily Life - Personal Stories of Transformation
Join us for an inspiring session that highlights the powerful connection between meditation and healthy eating. Don't miss out on expert insights and actionable tips that can lead you towards a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.
Jillian Lavender has been teaching Vedic Meditation since 2003. As co-founder of London Meditation Centre and New York Meditation Center, she has helped thousands of people across the globe to transform their lives.
Originally from New Zealand, Jillian held senior business roles in Sydney, Paris and New York. During this demanding time leading global publishing companies, she learned Vedic Meditation. The improvements to her life were immediate — stress levels began to dissolve and fatigue quickly subsided. This inspired her to become a teacher and share these benefits with others.
Alongside teaching meditation, Jillian speaks to groups about stress, well-being, and the impact of becoming more mindful in their daily lives. She is also an expert in Ayurveda and consults on health, diet, sleep, fertility and lifestyle. She delivers this ancient knowledge in an accessible and practical way.
Jillian’s first book, “Why Meditate? Because it Works.” came out in July 2021, receiving praise from The Guardian, The Times, Harpers Bazaar and more. The book is a modern, trustworthy explanation of what meditation is, and most importantly, what it will do for you. She busts common myths and explains the science and benefits of meditation with a clear and easy approach. Beautiful illustrations, real-life stories from students, and simple starter tips weave together to form a foundation to truly understand meditation and inspire you to seek a practice of your own.
Jillian’s second book, "Do Reset: Meditate. Move beyond thinking. Find clarity.” is now available for pre-order, and will be published in the UK on 3rd April 2025.
Subscribers to the Good Food app via App Store get access to the show ad-free, and with regular bonus content such as interviews recorded at the good food show. To get started, download the Good Food app today
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
--------
58:54
Let's cook together: Lighter Cornish Pasties
Cook-a-long with Samuel Goldsmith, in this bonus recipe episode. Find the recipe at bbcgoodfood.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
--------
7:16
Ultra processed foods with Nutritionist Kerry Torrens
In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Kerry Torrens, Good Food’s Nutritionist, who joins host Samuel Goldsmith to explore the world of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Kerry breaks down what UPFs are, the NOVA classification system, and how these foods affect our health. We dive deep into the pros and cons of UPFs, discussing whether all UPFs are bad and how they can fit into a balanced diet. Kerry explains how to identify UPFs on food labels, weighs up convenience versus health benefits, and offers tips for reducing UPF consumption without sacrificing convenience or nutrition. We also touch on the role of additives, their safety, and potential impacts on our health, particularly gut health. Kerry shares her personal food confession and favourite childhood comfort food, offering listeners a relatable and warm perspective on making healthier choices. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent on the go, or someone looking to make informed food choices, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn how to navigate the world of UPFs and make the best dietary choices for your lifestyle. Don't miss Kerry's ultimate comfort dish reveal and her expert tips on making nutritious food that also saves time and money.
Kerry Torrens Bsc (Hons) PgCert MBANT is a registered nutritionist with a postgraduate diploma in Personalised Nutrition & Nutritional Therapy. She is a member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and a member of the Guild of Food Writers. Over the last 15 years she has been a contributing author to a number of nutritional and cookery publications, including Good Food and Olive magazines. She has also hosted nutrition and health sessions at Good Food Shows and been an expert speaker on various food- and health-related BBC radio programmes. Kerry divides her time between analysing recipes for nutritional content and advising chefs and recipe developers, as well as writing and editing food, cookery and health titles for both print and digital media. She has worked with a number of the top chefs, major food manufacturers and supermarkets. When not working, Kerry spends much of her time in the West Country.
Subscribers to the Good Food app via App Store get access to the show ad-free, and with regular bonus content such as interviews recorded at the good food show. To get started, download the Good Food app today
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Start the new year with our January Health Series, where we dive into expert advice on healthy eating, gut health, and understanding ultra-processed foods to help you build better habits for 2025!
Join host Samuel Goldsmith every Tuesday as he chats with cooks, chefs, and food lovers. In each episode, Samuel dives into a sparkling conversation about the guest's life, their journey in the food and drink world, and, of course, their passion for food. Expect plenty of laughs, life lessons, and unforgettable stories from the people behind the plates.
The fun doesn't stop there! Tune in for sections like My Favourite Dish, where the guest discusses their favourite dishes and how they've made them their own, Cookery Confessions, where guests share their funniest kitchen mishaps and culinary secrets, and Quick Fire Questions, a rapid round of surprises that reveal more about their tastes and quirks.
Plus, on Thursdays, get a taste of new recipes in our bonus episodes—easy-to-follow cook-alongs to bring the flavours of the conversation to your kitchen.
Do scroll back in the feed to our archive including special episodes hosted by Tom Kerridge, Orlando Murrin and Mallika Basu.
The Good Food podcast has featured guests such as: Jamie Oliver, Nadiya Hussain, Michel Roux, Ainsley Harriot, Gennaro Contaldo, Claire Richards, Fred Sirieix, Big Zuu, Tess Daly, Liz Bonnin, Becky Excell, Professor Tim Spector, Rukmini Iyer, Riyadh Khalaf, John Whaite, Crystelle Pereira, Paul Ainsworth, The Hairy Bikers, Marcus Wareing, Sabrina Ghayour, Jane Dunn and Atul Kochhar.
Discussing topics such as BBQ, fermenting, brunch, spices, Eurovision, Caribbean flavours, sustainability, chocolate, Spanish cuisine, vegan cooking, Bake Off, airfryers, health, wellbeing, nutrition, slow cookers, cocktails, pancakes, pressure cookers, seasonal food and cocktails.
Netherlands