What drives someone to completely transform their eating habits? For Dr. Craig Keever, it was a health crisis – pushing 300 pounds with five medications for metabolic disorders that weren't improving his condition. His plant-based journey led to remarkable results: nearly 100 pounds lost and freedom from all medications. But health is just one of three powerful motivators explored in this foundational episode.

The hosts dive deep into the three compelling "whys" behind plant-based eating. While health transformation drives many, animal ethics provides another profound motivation. Factory farming conditions in concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) create suffering that many find impossible to support once they understand the reality. Environmental concerns form the third pillar – with half of America's waterways unable to support aquatic life due largely to agricultural runoff.

Understanding your personal "why" creates the foundation for success, whether you choose to dive in completely or take gradual steps. The mindset shift proves crucial – moving from focusing on foods you "can't" eat to discovering an abundance of delicious new options. Dr. Keever shares practical strategies for beginners, including batch cooking, kitchen tool upgrades, and finding community support through resources like their "Keever's Plant-Based Tribe" Facebook group.

This episode provides an ideal starting point for anyone curious about plant-based eating. Whether health concerns, ethical considerations, or environmental awareness moves you, the hosts offer non-judgmental guidance and practical wisdom from their own journey. Visit ozarkpediatrics.org for a comprehensive collection of resources to support your plant-based exploration.

Thanks for listening to Roots To Health!

The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. Dr. Craig Keever is a licensed pediatrician, but the content shared here is general in nature and may not be applicable to your individual health needs.

Stay connected and keep the conversation going:

🌱 Follow Dr. Craig Keever for more plant-based pediatric insights:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozarkpediatrics/
📍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ozarkpediatric/
📍 Website: https://www.ozarkpediatrics.org/

🎨 Connect with Amy Keever for art, creativity, and inspiration:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykeevergallery/
📍 Website: amykeever.com

📩 Have a question or a topic you’d love to hear about? Send us a message or tag us on social media!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover Roots To Health! 🌟

Fat remains perhaps the most misunderstood macronutrient in nutrition science. While many diets demonize it completely and others elevate it as the ultimate fuel source, the truth lies somewhere in between. This deep dive into the world of dietary fats reveals why our bodies genuinely need fat for essential functions—from brain health and hormone production to cell regeneration and vitamin absorption.

Most healthy individuals should aim for 30-35% of their calories from fat, yet the standard American diet often delivers more than double that amount. For those with specific health conditions like type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, managing fat intake becomes even more critical, sometimes requiring limiting fat to just 10-15% of total calories to maintain healthy blood sugar levels without medication.

We explore the fascinating molecular differences between saturated fats (typically solid at room temperature) and their unsaturated counterparts, examining how their structures impact our health. The conversation takes a particularly illuminating turn when discussing the crucial balance between pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory omega-3s. While a healthy ratio might be 3:1 or 4:1, most Americans consume these fats at dangerous proportions exceeding 20:1, creating chronic inflammation that underlies numerous diseases.

For those with autoimmune conditions, the information shared about Dr. Brooke Goldner's protocol for healing lupus, MS, and other inflammatory conditions through omega balance optimization could be life-changing. We also reveal practical tips for incorporating healthy fats through flaxseeds, chia seeds, nuts, and avocados, while explaining why oils might not deserve their "heart-healthy" reputation. The episode concludes with a shocking reality check about restaurant meals, where a single steakhouse dinner can contain nearly 400 grams of fat—demonstrating why understanding fats isn't just about nutrition theory, but a practical necessity for anyone seeking optimal health.

Thanks for listening to Roots To Health!

The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. Dr. Craig Keever is a licensed pediatrician, but the content shared here is general in nature and may not be applicable to your individual health needs.

Stay connected and keep the conversation going:

🌱 Follow Dr. Craig Keever for more plant-based pediatric insights:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozarkpediatrics/
📍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ozarkpediatric/
📍 Website: https://www.ozarkpediatrics.org/

🎨 Connect with Amy Keever for art, creativity, and inspiration:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykeevergallery/
📍 Website: amykeever.com

📩 Have a question or a topic you’d love to hear about? Send us a message or tag us on social media!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover Roots To Health! 🌟

Carbohydrates have been unfairly demonized in modern diet culture, but this eye-opening exploration of the science behind our body's preferred fuel source challenges everything you thought you knew about nutrition.

We dive deep into the macronutrient balance that actually supports optimal health: roughly 15% protein, 30% fat, and 55% carbohydrates for the average healthy person. This isn't just theory – it's how our bodies are designed to function. While trendy diets might suggest otherwise, the existence of "keto flu" (with no equivalent "carb flu") demonstrates how unnatural ultralow-carb approaches truly are.

The key distinction emerges between complex carbohydrates (fiber and starches from whole grains, legumes, and vegetables) and their refined counterparts (white flour, sugar). When carbohydrates are consumed in their natural state, complete with fiber and nutrients, they provide sustained energy without problematic blood sugar spikes. The processing of these foods strips away their nutritional value, transforming wholesome nutrition into something that barely qualifies as food.

Perhaps most fascinating is the discussion around diabetes and carbohydrates. Contrary to conventional wisdom that often recommends carb restriction, high-fat diets actually worsen insulin resistance by allowing fat to infiltrate muscle and liver cells, blocking insulin receptors. For many diabetics, a low-fat, plant-based diet rich in complex carbs dramatically improves insulin sensitivity and reduces insulin requirements – a counterintuitive approach backed by compelling evidence. The episode concludes with a powerful examination of fiber's crucial role in supporting our microbiome, which produces chemical communicators essential for brain function, mood regulation, and hormonal balance. Ready to transform your relationship with carbohydrates? Visit ozarkpediatrics.org for more resources on plant-based nutrition and join our supportive community!

Thanks for listening to Roots To Health!

The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. Dr. Craig Keever is a licensed pediatrician, but the content shared here is general in nature and may not be applicable to your individual health needs.

Stay connected and keep the conversation going:

🌱 Follow Dr. Craig Keever for more plant-based pediatric insights:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozarkpediatrics/
📍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ozarkpediatric/
📍 Website: https://www.ozarkpediatrics.org/

🎨 Connect with Amy Keever for art, creativity, and inspiration:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykeevergallery/
📍 Website: amykeever.com

📩 Have a question or a topic you’d love to hear about? Send us a message or tag us on social media!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover Roots To Health! 🌟

"What is plant-based nutrition?" seems like a straightforward question, but misconceptions abound. Dr. Keever dismantles the myths that plant-based eating means endless salads and bland food, sharing his transformative health journey that reversed serious conditions through whole food plant-based nutrition.

Our bodies are carbohydrate machines, designed to thrive on complex carbs found in whole foods—not the refined carbs that deserve their bad reputation. Dr. Keever explains the critical distinction between various plant-based terms: vegetarian (no meat), vegan (no animal products), and whole food plant-based (emphasizing unprocessed plant foods while avoiding meat, dairy, eggs, refined sugars, oils, and processed foods). The conversation tackles why even "healthy" oils like olive oil are problematic when consumed directly rather than eating the whole olive with its fiber intact.

The podcast delves into the optimal macronutrient balance, revealing that excess protein isn't stored but converted to fat and carbohydrates—contrary to popular fitness advice. For most adults, a diet of approximately 60% carbohydrates, 25-30% fat, and 10-11% protein provides optimal nutrition, though those with metabolic conditions benefit from limiting fat to 10-15% of calories.

Perhaps most compelling is the evidence behind plant-based nutrition's power to reverse disease. Dr. Keever references documented cases where this eating pattern opened previously blocked arteries—the only approach proven to reverse heart disease. The conversation highlights the importance of gut microbiome diversity, achievable by consuming 7 different plants daily and 30 weekly, and addresses supplementation needs (vitamin D, B12, and magnesium) in our modern environment.

Ready to transform your health through the power of plants? Join Keever's Plant-Based Tribe for community support and practical resources to make this life-changing approach sustainable and enjoyable.

Thanks for listening to Roots To Health!

The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. Dr. Craig Keever is a licensed pediatrician, but the content shared here is general in nature and may not be applicable to your individual health needs.

Stay connected and keep the conversation going:

🌱 Follow Dr. Craig Keever for more plant-based pediatric insights:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozarkpediatrics/
📍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ozarkpediatric/
📍 Website: https://www.ozarkpediatrics.org/

🎨 Connect with Amy Keever for art, creativity, and inspiration:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykeevergallery/
📍 Website: amykeever.com

📩 Have a question or a topic you’d love to hear about? Send us a message or tag us on social media!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover Roots To Health! 🌟

Fueling your body with the right nutrients is crucial for a healthy lifestyle, and the topic of protein often raises questions, especially among those interested in plant-based diets. Join Dr. Craig Keever as he explores the world of plant-powered protein, unraveling the myths and misconceptions that surround this vital macronutrient. In a friendly and engaging manner, he introduces listeners to the essentials of protein—how it works in our bodies, why we need it, and how to ensure we're getting enough from plant sources. 

Dr. Keever breaks down the science of protein, discussing essential amino acids, how they're sourced, and why plant foods can be more than sufficient. He dives deep into various protein-rich plants like legumes, nuts, and grains, revealing how everyday foods like chickpeas and even broccoli contribute positively to overall protein intake. Understanding the nuances of protein quality and bioavailability is equally important; Dr. Keever touches on how the body processes these nutrients, addressing common concerns about digestibility and effectiveness.

Additionally, this episode provides practical advice tailored to different lifestyles and age groups, emphasizing the need for personalized dietary requirements. Listeners will appreciate the engaging anecdotes and easy-to-follow tips that Dr. Keever shares to help individuals effectively incorporate plant-based foods into their meals. By the end, you’ll not only understand the power of a plant-based diet but also feel motivated to explore new recipes and meal ideas that maximize your protein potential.

Stay tuned for valuable insights that can inspire culinary creativity and enhance your well being. Don't forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave us a review!

Thanks for listening to Roots To Health!

The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. Dr. Craig Keever is a licensed pediatrician, but the content shared here is general in nature and may not be applicable to your individual health needs.

Stay connected and keep the conversation going:

🌱 Follow Dr. Craig Keever for more plant-based pediatric insights:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozarkpediatrics/
📍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ozarkpediatric/
📍 Website: https://www.ozarkpediatrics.org/

🎨 Connect with Amy Keever for art, creativity, and inspiration:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykeevergallery/
📍 Website: amykeever.com

📩 Have a question or a topic you’d love to hear about? Send us a message or tag us on social media!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover Roots To Health! 🌟

Dr. Craig Keever’s journey from chronic illness to health empowerment unfolds in a compelling narrative that intertwines personal experience and professional insights. As the founder of Ozark Pediatrics, Dr. Keever shares his life-changing decision to embrace a plant-based diet—a choice inspired by both his personal struggles with health and a pivotal documentary that challenged his understanding of nutrition. 

Throughout this engaging episode, listeners will dive into the ups and downs of Dr. Keever's health journey, exploring the connection between a poor diet and the chronic diseases affecting millions. He reveals how the Standard American Diet—ironically abbreviated as SAD—led him to face critical health challenges, from high cholesterol to type 2 diabetes. The turning point came when he discovered the principles of plant-based eating and how they could reverse damage and encourage vitality.

Moreover, Dr. Keever discusses the critical role of community and support in achieving lasting dietary change, emphasizing that changing one’s lifestyle is far more beneficial than following a transient diet. Armed with knowledge from the book "Mastering Diabetes", he transformed his understanding of his body’s needs and discovered effective ways to tackle insulin resistance without relying solely on medication.

Listeners looking for inspiration or considering similar lifestyle changes will find valuable tips and insights into the power of nutrition in healing. As a certified physician in lifestyle medicine, Dr. Keever is now committed to guiding others toward healthier choices, illustrating not just the science of nutrition, but the profound impact of embracing a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. 

Join us to learn, reflect, and take actionable steps toward better health as we navigate the complexities of nutrition and chronic disease. Engage with us, and if this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts, subscribe for more, and consider leaving a review!

Thanks for listening to Roots To Health!

The information provided in this video is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. Dr. Craig Keever is a licensed pediatrician, but the content shared here is general in nature and may not be applicable to your individual health needs.

Stay connected and keep the conversation going:

🌱 Follow Dr. Craig Keever for more plant-based pediatric insights:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ozarkpediatrics/
📍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ozarkpediatric/
📍 Website: https://www.ozarkpediatrics.org/

🎨 Connect with Amy Keever for art, creativity, and inspiration:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amykeevergallery/
📍 Website: amykeever.com

📩 Have a question or a topic you’d love to hear about? Send us a message or tag us on social media!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people discover Roots To Health! 🌟