In Episode #86, I sat down with AFL player Chris Mayne to talk about his transition to a plant-based diet as a professional athlete. Chris plays for the Collingwood Football Club, the largest club in Australia, and in the past few years has been able to take his game to the next level.
 
In this episode, we cover the ups and downs of Chris’s career, when and why he changed his diet, and the impact this had on his life and football. Chris shares his typical day of eating, some advice for other young players, and much more.
  
Enjoy, friends.
 
Simon
	
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Simon Hill, Msc, Bsc (Hons) 
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill 
Author of The Proof is in the Plants 
Watch the episodes on YouTube, or Listen on Apple/Spotify 
Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook 
Download my complimentary two week meal plan and high protein plant performance recipe book

Being a Plant-Based Professional Footballer | AFL Player Chris Mayne

The Proof Podcast is a space for science-based conversation. Together with his guests, Simon Hill, a qualified physiotherapist and nutritionist, explores the health and longevity benefits that come with mastering physical exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, recovery, sleep, and alignment. Facts, nuance and trustworthy recommendations minus the hyperbole. All the proof you need to live better for longer.

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Episode #312. Vegan vs. omnivore: learn about the Netflix documentary “You Are What You Eat” and the associated twin study with lead researcher, Christopher Gardner PhD. You’ll learn about why Dr Gardner designed the study the way he did, unpack some key findings, and hear his response to criticisms.
From publication, this study gained major media attention that was only amplified by the release of “You Are What You Eat”. With popularity comes criticism, in this case from some big names in online nutrition spaces. Hear the truth about the controversy surrounding this study and documentary, straight from the source.

Specifically, we discuss: 

Intro (00:00)

Introduction and background on Christopher Gardner's recent twin study (01:36)

Navigating the Challenges of Science Communication and Critique (08:28)

Introduction to the Twin Study and Its Unique Design (16:36)

The Role of Identical Twins and Defining Plant-Based vs. Omnivorous Diets (22:45)

Dietary Patterns and Health Outcomes: The Vegan and Omnivorous Diets (27:25)

Diet Satisfaction and Adherence in Nutritional Studies (36:34)

The Science of Study Design: Primary vs. Secondary Outcomes (42:05)

Responding to critiques on calorie differences (51:58)

Cardiometabolic Markers and Diet: A Deep Dive (55:17)

Twin Nutrition Study Deep Dive: Lipid Markers, Cardiovascular Risk, and the Impact of Diet (01:00:13)

Responding to Critiques (Peter Attia): The Complexity of Diet Studies (01:14:07)

Addressing Critique of Mark Hyman (01:29:24)

Funding from Beyond Meat and other organisations (01:38:55)

Teaching about sustainability and stealth nutrition - Nina Teicholz critique (01:44:29)

Is Plant-Based Diet good for the environmental health? (01:48:00)

Reflecting on critiques and potential improvements to the study (01:53:47)

Personal experience with the Netflix documentary (01:55:45)

Outro (01:57:54)


Connect with Professor Christopher Gardner on Twitter/X and Instagram. Head to https://nutrition.stanford.edu/ for more resources and studies, and the Stanford Nutrition YouTube channel for more videos. Listen to past episodes featuring Professor Gardner here.

This episode is brought to you by:
InsideTracker
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Eimele
Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 10% off your first order.
38TERA
Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.
Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill
Author of The Proof is in the Plants
Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify
Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide
Download my complimentary Two-Week Meal Plan and high protein Plant Performance recipe book

Vegan vs Omnivore twins study | Christopher Gardner, PhD

Some people follow a ketogenic diet seeking to lose weight, feel more energised, or gain control over their eating habits. Others may turn to this diet in an effort to treat conditions such as epilepsy, bipolar disorder, diabetes and inflammatory diseases. Regardless of their reasoning for adopting this eating pattern, a key question remains: is there ever an instance where having high LDL cholesterol levels on a ketogenic diet can be safe? In Episode #311, I’m joined by Dr William Cromwell, MD and Dave Feldman to explore this question.
In this discussion, Dr William Cromwell and Dave Feldman share their professional opinions on whether high cholesterol on a keto diet is a problem. We investigate where their opinions align and where they differ, where Dave’s hypotheses diverge from the norm, and what we do and don’t know with the available evidence. We also explore the significance of ApoB, lifespan and healthspan considerations, research Dave is currently conducting, and much more.

Specifically, we discuss:

Intro (00:00)

Dr. William Cromwell: Background as a Lipidologist and LDL Research (01:54)

Dave Feldman's Ketogenic Diet and Elevated LDL Experience (05:34)

Unpacking the Lipid Hypothesis and Cardiovascular Risk (12:30)

The history and evolution of the lipid hypothesis (20:40)

The role of apoB lipoproteins in atherosclerosis (23:39)

Factors beyond apoB involved in atherosclerosis and mortality risk (31:59)

The complexity of interpreting mortality data in the context of apoB (41:40)

Macrophages and the process of atherosclerosis (44:00)

Beyond ApoB: Metabolic Vulnerability, Inflammation and Mortality Risk (52:57)

Transcytosis: A New Perspective on LDL Movement and Atherosclerosis (1:10:36)

Exploring Low Cholesterol Impacts and Genetic Disorders (1:17:30)

Macrophage function and phenotype in the context of different drivers of high apoB (1:22:30)

Defining Lean Mass Hyper-responders in the Context of a Ketogenic Diet (1:31:40)

Investigating PCSK9 and Its Effects on Healthspan (1:38:00)

Assessing cardiovascular risk in lean mass hyper-responders (1:43:50)

Statin safety, adverse effects, and patient reluctance (2:01:54)

Ketogenic Diets and Elevated LDL: Balancing Individual Risks and Benefits in the Absence of Long-term Data (2:10:40)

Insulin Resistance, ApoB, and Cardiovascular Risk: Navigating the Challenges in Assessment and Imaging (2:18:12)

Lean Mass Hyper-responder Study: Design, Recruitment, and Eligibility Criteria (2:32:45)

Closing Perspectives on Research and Dietary Options (3:04:47)

Outro (3:06:42)


Connect with Dr William Cromwell: Twitter/X, LinkedIn, and https://www.mylipid.com/. Discover more of his work with Precision Health Reports: Twitter/X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and at https://precisionhealthreports.com/.
Connect with Dave Feldman: Twitter/X, YouTube, and Instagram, and discover more of his work at https://citizensciencefoundation.org/, https://ownyourlabs.com/, and https://cholesterolcode.com/.

This episode is brought to you by:
InsideTracker
If you want to improve your health, you need to measure where you’re currently at. InsideTracker analyses up to 48 blood biomarkers including ApoB, LDL, HDL, A1C, and more before giving you advice to optimise your health. Get a 20% discount on your first order at insidetracker.com/simon.
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Sun Home Saunas
Invest in your body and mind with Sun Home Saunas, pioneers in crafting premium saunas and cold plunges. Safe, effective, research-backed wellness tools to improve cardiovascular health, offer psychological benefits, and reduce muscle soreness. Head to sunhomesaunas.com/theproof for $300 off your purchase.

Is high cholesterol on a keto diet always a problem? | Dave Feldman and William Cromwell, Md

Episode #310. For many of us looking to achieve athletic goals and age healthily, protein is something that is regularly front of mind. Join me as I sit down with Associate Professor Nicholas Burd, a muscle physiologist and researcher, to discuss the latest scientific evidence on protein. From selecting your protein source to choosing an appropriate amount for your goals, Dr Burd shares recent research findings on how to optimise your protein intake.
Discover the nuanced difference between optimising and maximising intake, the problem with eating too much protein, and why getting protein from whole foods is important. We also cover protein timing and distribution, supplementation, and much more.

Specifically, we discuss:

Intro (00:00)

Introduction to Nicholas Burd's Work as a Muscle Physiologist (01:32)

Exploring Muscle Protein Turnover and Renewal (03:57)

Muscle Fibre Hyperplasia vs. Hypertrophy in Humans (08:06)

The Role of Protein Metabolism in Muscle Physiology (15:21)

Optimal vs. Maximal Protein Intake for Muscle Growth (19:12)

Understanding Amino Acid Oxidation and Its Implications for Muscle Growth (23:05)

Leveraging Food Matrix Effects for Optimal Protein Utilisation (33:39)

The Role of Dietary Fats in Potentiating Amino Acid Utilisation (38:55)

How Low-Carb Diets Influence Protein Requirements (43:50)

Protein Requirements During Energy Restriction and Weight Loss (46:54)

Optimising Protein Intake for Endurance Athletes (48:08)

Nutrient Timing and Protein Distribution (1:05:06)

Maximising Dietary Protein Absorption and Utilisation (1:12:34)

Protein intake from the perspective of muscle physiologist (1:18:09)

Sex-Based Differences in Protein Metabolism with Aging (1:20:45)

Should You Supplement With Essential Amino Acids or BCAAs? (1:26:12)

Exploring the Rationale Behind Collagen Supplementation (1:30:43)

Biggest Protein Myths Debunked (1:40:16)

Outro (1:42:45)

Learn more about Dr Nicholas Burd on his staff profile, and read his publications on ResearchGate.
If you’re interested in learning more about protein, make sure to listen to Episode #290, a protein masterclass featuring world-renowned experts.

This episode is brought to you by:
InsideTracker
If you want to improve your health, you need to measure where you’re currently at. InsideTracker analyses up to 48 blood biomarkers including ApoB, LDL, HDL, A1C, and more before giving you advice to optimise your health. Get a 20% discount on your first order at insidetracker.com/simon.
BON CHARGE
Enhance skin health, increase collagen production, and reverse sun damage with BON CHARGE, my choice of low-level light therapy. Holistic, evidence-based, premium products for healthier skin. Get started at boncharge.com and use code THEPROOF for a 15% discount.
Eimele
Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 10% off your first order.
38TERA
Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.

Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill
Author of The Proof is in the Plants
Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify
Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide
Download my complimentary Two-Week Meal Plan and high protein Plant Performance recipe book

The latest science on protein | Nicholas Burd, PhD

Episode #309. Testosterone: we hear it thrown around constantly as the silver bullet for curing all kinds of symptoms. Join me as I sit down with Dr Adam Hotchkiss, podiatric physician and foot surgeon turned human optimisation specialist, to answer all your burning questions about testosterone, TRT, steroids, and more. This is an important listen for any men considering using steroids to enhance their physique or looking to safely increase testosterone without compromising fertility.
We take a deep dive into testosterone in this episode, covering what it is, what’s considered normal and healthy levels in men, and symptoms of low testosterone. Dr Hotchkiss breaks down how lifestyle factors can influence your testosterone, explains how to boost it (and whether you need to), and covers concerns about fertility and heart disease.

Specifically, we discuss:

Introduction (00:00)

Adam Hotchkiss' Journey: From Podiatry to Hormonal Health Optimisation (03:55)

Understanding testosterone's functions, symptoms of deficiency, and impact on overall health (12:00)

How the body makes testosterone? (20:56)

Understanding Total, Free, and Bioavailable Testosterone Levels (24:35)

Examining Testosterone Reference Ranges and How They've Changed Over Time (29:46)

Role of Oestrogen in Testosterone Replacement Therapy Benefits (38:27)

Preserving Fertility While on Testosterone Therapy: HCG and Other Options (48:48)

HCG and Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): What You Need to Know (55:17)

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): When Is It Necessary? (1:01:09)

Understanding Testosterone Replacement Therapy: Bioidentical vs Synthetic (1:04:56)

The Science Behind Steroid Abuse: What Young Men Need to Know (1:12:39)

How Does Testosterone Affect Cardiovascular Health? (1:16:02)

Optimising Testosterone Levels Through Lifestyle Changes: Nutrition, Sleep, Exercise (1:20:28)

Do Testosterone-Boosting Supplements Really Work? (1:33:55)

Should You Optimise Testosterone Levels? Case Study and Discussion (1:36:30)

Trenbolone Exposed: Exploring the Evidence on Side Effects (1:44:35)

Outro (1:54:11)


Connect with Dr Adam Hotchkiss on Instagram and learn more on YouTube.

This episode is brought to you by:
InsideTracker
If you want to improve your health, you need to measure where you’re currently at. InsideTracker analyses up to 48 blood biomarkers including ApoB, LDL, HDL, A1C, and more before giving you advice to optimise your health. Get a 20% discount on your first order at insidetracker.com/simon.
Bon Charge
Enhance skin health, increase collagen production, and reverse sun damage with BON CHARGE, my choice of low-level light therapy. Holistic, evidence-based, premium products for healthier skin. Get started at boncharge.com and use code THEPROOF for a 15% discount.
Eimele
Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 10% off your first order.
38TERA
Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.

Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill
Author of The Proof is in the Plants
Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify
Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide
Download my complimentary Two-Week Meal Plan and high protein Plant Performance recipe book

Optimising testosterone levels in men | Dr Adam Hotchkiss

Episode #308. How would Jesus kill an animal? Join me as I sit down with filmmakers Kip Andersen and Kameron Waters to discuss their position on how religion and veganism intersect. Whether you are religious or not, there are many interesting points raised to reflect on further.
In their new documentary Christspiracy, Kip and Kameron pose the question: is there a spiritual way to kill an animal? In this episode, they argue what they believe to be the accurate interpretation of what the Bible says about animal liberation, taking us on a journey of what the concept of dominion truly means. We discuss a 2000-year-old cover-up, whether eating meat as a Christian is hypocritical, the truth about regenerative agriculture, and much more.

Specifically, we cover:

Intro (00:00)

Unveiling the Truth Behind Religious Misinterpretations (06:06)

Exploring the Daniel Fast: A Christian's Journey to Plant-Based Eating (13:43)

Connecting the Dots: The Nazarenes, Mistranslations, and Jesus' Controversial Temple Actions (19:07)

The Mistranslation of Dominion and Its Impact on Western World Beliefs (25:38)

Rethinking Christianity's Relationship with Animal Consumption (31:50)

Exploring the Intersection of Spirituality, Ethics, and Filmmaking: A Journey of Discovery (43:52)

How the Animal Agriculture Industry Influences Religious Views on Animal Consumption (50:57)

Is It Possible to be Spiritual and Consume Animal Products? (1:00:47)

Regenerative Farming: A Closer Look at Animal Welfare and Ethics (1:05:07)

Examining the Contradictions in Joel Salatin's Ethical Farming Practices (1:12:27)

How Different Religions Approach the Consumption and Killing of Animals (1:25:51)

Making "Christspiracy": How to Create an Engaging Film About Killing 70 Billion Animals (1:33:42)

Outro (1:39:27)


Learn more about Christspiracy at https://www.christspiracy.com/. Connect with the Christspiracy community on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

This episode is brought to you by:
InsideTracker
If you want to improve your health, you need to measure where you’re currently at. InsideTracker analyses up to 48 blood biomarkers including ApoB, LDL, HDL, A1C, and more before giving you advice to optimise your health. Get a 20% discount on your first order at insidetracker.com/simon.
Eimele
Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 10% off your first order.
38TERA
Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.
WHOOP
Whoop, the most advanced fitness and health wearable available. Your personalised fitness and health coach to recover faster, sleep better, and train smarter. Claim your first month free on join.whoop.com/simon.

Want to support the show?
The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offered by our sponsors. To check them out, and enjoy great savings, visit theproof.com/friends. You can also show your support by leaving a review on the Apple Podcast app and/or sharing your favourite episodes with your friends and family.
Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill
Author of The Proof is in the Plants
Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify
Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide
Download my complimentary Two-Week Meal Plan and high-protein Plant Performance recipe book

Being a Plant-Based Professional Footballer | AFL Player Chris Mayne

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