What if everyday pantry staples could help you eat healthier and more affordably, and also free up your time in the kitchen? In this episode, registered dietitian Milette Siler shares why food is medicine is a powerful tool for improving health alongside traditional medicine and pharmacotherapy, and how ingredients like canned tomatoes and canned fruits can play a nutritious role in your meals. Whether you’re aiming to improve your own health or help others do the same, this conversation highlights how smart food choices, even from a can, can support a healthy, balanced diet.  

In this episode you’ll hear:
2:45 – Why does food as medicine matter?
7:30 –  About Teaching kitchens
10:15 – Nutrients in fresh vs. canned and frozen foods
15:30 – How to store fresh herbs
16:10 – Fiber in canned tomatoes and canned fruits
19:00 – Are canned fruits healthy?
21:15 – Should you drain canned fruit?
25:15 – What to avoid when buying canned fruit
26:10 – Is there a concern with BPA in canned foods?
27:30 – Smoothies and satiety
30:45 – How to build a healthy pantry
32:30 – What does a dietitian do?
35:30 – “It’s what we don’t eat that gets us into trouble.”  

Thank you to our sponsor, Pacific Coast Producers.

Resource:

• https://scijournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jsfa.5849

CREDITS:
Host – Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound & Editing – Will Crann
Executive Producer – Esther Garfin

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

These seventeen minutes about inflammation are not to be missed. Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism, but chronic inflammation can contribute to heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and more. In this episode, Dr. Falquier breaks down the science of inflammation, exploring why it’s essential for healing, how it can be harmful, and what you can do to keep it in check.

In this episode you’ll hear:
1:25 - Chronic inflammation statistics
2:30 - What is acute inflammation?
3:10 - Healing acute inflammation
4:30 - Chronic inflammation causes
6:10 - Daily cell damage that needs repair
7:40 - Examples of health problems resulting from cell damage and inflammation
8:20 - Signs of chronic inflammation
9:20 - Can you test for chronic inflammation?
12:30 - Anti-inflammatory foods
14:50 - How to reduce inflammation in the body recap: a holistic approach

As referenced in the episode:

Audio - Healthy Eating Plate: Your Guide to Balanced Meals 
Video - What's On Your Plate

Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin  

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

What if a garden could change lives? As part of Podcasthon, we’re spotlighting Olivewood Gardens & Learning Center, a non-profit dedicated to inspiring youth and adults to be healthy and active citizens through organic gardening, environmental stewardship, and nutrition education.  

In this episode you’ll hear:
1:40 – About Olivewood Gardens & Learning Center.
2:15 – The journey to becoming a Kitchenista.
8:45 – How Olivewood Gardens began.
9:45 – Opportunities for Kitchenistas post-graduation.
17:00 – Giving back to the Olivewood community.

Referenced in the episode:

• Olivewood Gardens & Learning Center
• Podcasthon  

Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin  

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

Why can some people eat gluten in Europe but struggle with it in the U.S.? With the help of Werner Forster, the co-founder and CEO of Revival Einkorn, Dr. Falquier delves into the fascinating history of wheat, and the nutritional benefits of einkorn wheat. Did you know that einkorn wheat is considered the original wheat, dating back over 10,000 years? Whether you’re gluten-sensitive, a history buff or simply curious about real food and traditional grains, this episode is packed with insights into the past, present and future of wheat.

In this episode you’ll hear:
2:00 – Why can some people eat gluten in Europe and not in the U.S.?
3:00 – What happened to our wheat?
4:40 – Difference between natural fermentation and using yeast?
6:30 – The Werner Forster and Revival Einkorn story.
11:00 – Einkorn vs. modern wheat.
12:45 – Einkorn wheat history.
14:40 – Einkorn wheat benefits.
16:15 – Can someone with Celiac Disease eat einkorn wheat?
17:10 – Can someone gluten sensitive (non-celiac) eat einkorn wheat?
18:00 – How is einkorn wheat grown?
23:00 – Revival Einkorn products.  

Guest link: https://revivaleinkorn.com/

Resources

• Delicious Einkorn Pasta Recipe You Need to Try Now!
• Receta Deliciosa de Einkorn pasta que tienes que probar ahorita

Credits:

Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin  

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.  

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

Te encanta la pasta pero estas buscando una alternativa que es más nutritiva y más facil de digestir? Este episodio explora el sabor y beneficios para la salud del trigo Einkorn, un grano antiguo conocido por su sabor de nuez y textura compleja. La Dra. Falquier te enseña, paso a paso, una receta deliciosa: Einkorn pasta con salsa verde inspirado por el pesto - hecha con espinaca y albahaca. Esta lleno de sabor y nutrientes.  

Gracias a nuestro patrocinador del episodio, Revival Einkorn.  

Este episodio esta disponible también en una version de video en el canal YouTube de Alternative Food Network.  

Este episodio también esta disponible en Ingles en audio y video.  

Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin  

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.  

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

Love pasta but looking for a more nutritious alternative that’s also easier on your stomach? This episode explores the taste and health benefits of einkorn wheat, an ancient grain known for its nutty flavor and rich texture. Dr. Falquier walks you through a delicious, easy-to-make einkorn fusilli pasta recipe, made with a vibrant spinach and basil pesto inspired green sauce that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.  

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Revival Einkorn.  

A video version of this episode is available on the Alternative Food Network Youtube channel.  

This episode is also available in Spanish audio and video.  

Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin  

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

Are you looking for anxiety relief or sleep problem solutions? Your gut health might hold the key. Dr. Falquier is joined by Integrative Psychiatrist, Dr. Nishi Bhopal, and Clinical Nutritionist, Ailar Poonian, who work together to address mental well-being from the inside out. They chat about the powerful connection between the gut microbiome and mental health, sharing expert insights to improve your gut health and mental well-being.

In this episode you’ll hear:
2:15 – What is a whole body approach to mental health and sleep issues?
4:35 – How an integrative psychiatrist and clinical nutritionist work together.
8:15 – The gut-brain connection and the gut microbiome.
12:40 – SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)
13:30 – Foods for gut health.
17:15 – Why are we now talking so much about the gut microbiome?
20:30 – Testing your microbiome for better mental health.
26:40 – How quickly can a person feel improvements in anxiety and sleep?
32:30 – Should microbiome testing be repeated?
34:45 – Should you eat food or take supplements for prebiotics and probiotics?
37:10 – Dr. Bhopal’s approach to supplements.
38:40 – Navigating the often confusing nutrition landscape.

Thank you to our sponsor, Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.

Guest link: https://pacificintegrativepsych.com/

CREDITS:
Host – Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound & Editing – Will Crann
Executive Producer – Esther Garfin

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

Dr. Falquier chats with obesity medicine specialist, Dr. Nisha Patel, who is also certified in culinary medicine, about the latest tools and strategies for sustainable weight management. From the rising use of GLP-1 medications to the powerful role of culinary medicine, Dr. Patel breaks down the science of how these medications function, whether they’re to be taken long term, and why what we eat still matters. If you’ve been wondering if medication for weight management is right for you, this episode is a must listen!     
       
In this episode you’ll hear:
3:00 – Medication and lifestyle changes for weight loss.
5:30 – What is a GLP-1?
8:50 – The effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on appetite regulation and cravings.
12:45 – Weight management dream team.
15:15 – How culinary medicine fits into Dr. Patel’s practice?
18:00 – Are GLP-1 medications taken for the long term?
25:45 – Negative side effects of GLP-1 medications.
29:40 – What we eat still matters with medication.
34:10 – Thoughts on RFK Jr. leading the Department of Health and Human Services.
35:40 – Health and wellbeing beyond the number on the scale.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.  

Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin  

©2025 Alternative Food Network Inc.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

The holidays are here, and with them come festive gatherings, family meals and treats at every turn! In this special holiday edition, Dr. Falquier helps you navigate the holiday season with tips for staying on track with your health goals while still enjoying the season’s flavors and celebrations. Plus, she shares a delicious, festive recipe that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients to keep you feeling good throughout the holidays (written recipe in show notes).

In this episode you’ll hear:
1:50 - What to put on your plate
2:20 – Managing alcohol consumption & keeping hydrated
3:25 – Pillars of lifestyle medicine
5:50 – Self-care
6:25 – Recipe: Roasted vegetables with a green sauce & festive topping  

As referenced in the episode:  

Alternative Food Network Newsletter Sign-Up

Roasted Vegetables with Green Sauce Recipe
Recipe by: Sabrina A. Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Physician, Professor, Culinary Instructor, Speaker, Consultant, Podcast Host
Culinary Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, Internal Medicine
Founder & Owner, Sensations Salud®

Yield: 4 cups roasted vegetables, and 1 cup green sauce
Servings: 4, Portion: 1 cup Vegetables and 1-4 Tbsp green sauce

Ingredients:
For Roasted Vegetables
•  4 cups roughly chopped vegetables of your choice. These are examples, yet choices are endless.
   •  brussel sprouts: cut off tough end and cut in half
   •  bell peppers: cut into chosen pieces; discard pith and seeds
   •  cauliflower: cut into 1/2 inch slices - OK if you have small pieces and larger pieces and even crumbs
   •  carrots: cut on diagonal about 1/2 inch slices
   •  tomatoes: cut in half if large and put flat side down, if cherry - leave whole
   •  purple cabbage: cut off tough end only and slice roughly 1/2 inch slices
   •  onions: any color, stem and root end removed, quartered and peeled
   •  summer and winter squash, peeled if needed and 1/2 inch slices
•  1/4 - 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
•  1/4 tsp pepper
•  1 - 2 tsp Olive Oil

For Green Sauce:
•  4 pressed cups washed greens and hard stems/veins removed (cilantro, kale, parsley, spinach, arugula as examples.
•  3/4 cup olive oil
•  2 tsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemon)
•  2 Tbsp lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
•  1 Tbsp red or white wine vinegar
•  1/4 - 1/2 tsp Kosher salt

For topping (optional)
•  1/2 cup Pomegranate seeds

Method:

1. Heat oven to 425F
2. Place all vegetables in a large bowl. 
3. Drizzle vegetables with measured Olive Oil and rub with hands to make sure well coated. 
4. Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt and pepper.  

For roasting:

1. Place vegetables on baking sheets lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper, single layer 
2. Roast for 10 minutes, and then set timer at 5-minute intervals until desired doneness (goal is some brown bits/caramelization, and heartier vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, winter squash and brussel sprouts to be fork tender on inside.) Roast times will vary depending on vegetable.
3. Optional to flip vegetables at 5-minute interval.

For green sauce:

1. In food processor or blender - place your chosen greens, 3/4 cups olive oil, 2 tsp lemon zest, 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar, and 1/4 tsp salt.
2. Pulse to desired consistency from textured to smooth. 
3. Taste and adjust by adding additional lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar or salt (1/8 tsp at a time).

For plating:

1. Choose your serving platter.
2. Place vegetables in attractive manner on platter - warm or room temperature.
3. Top with dollops of green sauce.
4. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds (if using). 
5. ENJOY!

notes:
Vegetables can be eaten cold, room temperature or warm.
Double or triple green sauce recipe and freeze, for up to 3 months, in small containers or freezer trays, to easily thaw for later use.
Store in airtight container in fridge up to 7 days.

More Resources:  
Episode 4, Healthy Eating Plate: Your Guide to Balanced Meals  
Episode 7, Why It’s Important for Your Body to be Hydrated  
Episode 19, Lifestyle Medicine for a Healthier You  

Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2024 Alternative Food Network Inc.  

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.

In this episode, learn how to make garlic-infused olive oil and use it to cook flavorful vegetables. This easy recipe is perfect for adding flavor to your meals while staying gentle on your gut.  The recipe is also Low FODMAP. Garlic is often a no-go for people managing IBS or digestive issues, but with this garlic-infused oil, you can enjoy the taste without the FODMAPs. Plus, learn which vegetables are FODMAP-friendly.

This episode is also available in Spanish.

To learn more about a Low FODMAP diet and how it can provide lasting relief for those suffering with IBS, check out our “Culinary Medicine Recipe” podcast episode with Registered Dietician, Kelsey Moore.  

To watch a video of this episode, check out Alternative Food Network's YouTube Channel.

Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann Executive
Producer - Esther Garfin

©2024 Alternative Food Network Inc.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/culinary-medicine-recipe--3467840/support.