In this powerful solo episode of Plant-Based Curious, host Diane Randall, M.A. CHC, merges raw personal storytelling with groundbreaking science to reveal how food rewires mental health. Struggling with chronic fatigue, brain fog, and a near Crohn’s diagnosis in her 30s while juggling tech career chaos and single motherhood, Diane shares her transformative pivot to plant-based eating—and how it saved her mind and body.  

Science You’ll Geek Out Over:

 How chronic inflammation from processed foods fuels depression/anxiety (and the 2022 study proving plants fight it).  

Why dopamine receptors hate cheese (and love lentils + berries) for sustained   energy.  

Underrated Brain Heroes:

• Zinc (hello, pumpkin seeds!) for neurotransmitter magic.  
• Vitamin C in bell peppers to boost serotonin.  
• Polyphenol powerhouses like dark chocolate that cross the blood-brain barrier.   

Actionable Bites You Can’t Skip:  

• Diane’s 50% Plate Rule for instant meal upgrades.  
• Why swapping coffee for chamomile tea might save your afternoon.  
•  Brain Bowl Recipe: Sweet potato + tahini dressing = serotonin heaven.  

Why Listen?  

• Relatable AF: Diane’s burnout-to-breakthrough journey mirrors your struggles. 
• No Fluff, Just Science: Cutting-edge studies made deliciously simple.  
• Your Weekly Challenge: Add one antioxidant-rich food (think turmeric or berries) and share your creation with the community!  

Perfect for anyone battling stress, mental fog, or burnout—this episode serves equal parts hope, strategy, and “aha!” moments. 

Tag a friend who needs a brain boost!
 
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