Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition

3157 Episodes

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3156: Could I Survive on a Limited Diet for Years or Decades? on Simplicity vs. Variety in Nutrition

2025-10-1707:17

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3156: Dr. Neal Malik explains that consistently eating the same healthy foods, like eggs, spinach, mozzarella, chicken, and yam, can make daily nutrition simpler and support weight management by reducing decision fatigue. Still, he emphasizes that long-term health depends on variety, since rotating different foods introduces a broader mix of nutrients and antioxidants that help the body thrive and prevent disease. Quotes to ponder: "Eating the same nutritious foods every day is a goal that I have often set for patients that are hoping to lose or maintain their body weight." "If you want to truly maximize your potential, consider substituting some foods you commonly eat with those that you don’t eat as often." "There are some powerful antioxidants in various foods, that when combined, may make for a pretty powerful combination of potential disease-fighting compounds." Episode references: Dietary Guidelines for Americans: https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3155: Habits, Leverage, and Trees by Tynan on Building a Strong Foundation

2025-10-1609:19

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3155: Tynan explores how habits shape identity and long-term outcomes, showing that real change comes from targeting the root behaviors rather than isolated actions. By treating habits like the trunk of a tree, central and transformative, he offers a compelling case for focusing on consistent, automated excellence instead of micromanaging every decision. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://tynan.com/habits/ Quotes to ponder: "You are your habits." "Trying to control a single occurrence without identifying and working on the habit is like picking a single leaf." "When you plant a seed you have to protect it and water it and feed it. Once it becomes a tree, you can leave it alone and it will continue to deepen its roots without any attention from you at all." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3154: Why Coconut Oil is Good for Your Teeth by Kayla McDonell with Healthline on Nature’s Dental Aid

2025-10-1509:46

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3154: Kayla McDonell examines the science behind coconut oil’s role in oral hygiene, especially its traditional use in oil pulling. She separates myth from evidence, showing how this natural remedy may help reduce bacteria and plaque while reminding readers that it should complement, not replace, professional dental care. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-and-teeth Quotes to ponder: “Coconut oil has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy for many health conditions.” “Oil pulling is an age-old practice where you swish oil around in your mouth to kill bacteria and promote oral hygiene.” “While oil pulling with coconut oil may reduce harmful bacteria, plaque, and gingivitis, it should never replace standard dental care.” Episode references: American Dental Association: https://www.ada.org National Institutes of Health - Oil Pulling and Oral Health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5198813/ Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine: https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/journal-of-traditional-and-complementary-medicine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3153: [Part 2] 5 Smart Tips To Body Image Confidence by Irene Elias of Self Love Junkie on Building Body Confidence

2025-10-1408:28

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3153: Irene Elias shares practical strategies for cultivating body image confidence by shifting focus from criticism to compassion. Through awareness, affirmations, and daily reminders, she encourages replacing negative self-talk with appreciation, listening to your body’s unique needs, and embracing love and worthiness in the present moment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://selflovejunkie.com/5-smart-tips-to-body-image-confidence/ Quotes to ponder: "Your body hears everything your mind tells it." "Whatever we focus on expands." "You are loveable and worthy of love right now." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3152: [Part 1] 5 Smart Tips To Body Image Confidence by Irene Elias of Self Love Junkie on Building Body Confidence

2025-10-1308:03

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3152: Irene Elias challenges the myth of the "perfect" body by exposing how societal standards, media images, and ego-driven pursuits distort self-worth. She encourages self-love by treating the body as a supportive partner for the soul, making peace with personal choices, and shifting focus from external validation to inner confidence. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://selflovejunkie.com/5-smart-tips-to-body-image-confidence/ Quotes to ponder: "To love yourself is to also love your body exactly as it is while you’re in the process of changing what you CAN change and for the right reasons." "At the end of the day, if you want to live a happier and more peaceful life, you’ve got to find a way to start loving your body exactly as it is." "Regardless of how we look on the outside, it’s how we feel on the inside that’s most important." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3151: The Hunger Games - Is Being Hungry Bad by Ben Greenfield on Balancing Hunger and Nutrition

2025-10-1212:16

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3151: Ben Greenfield explores the science and psychology of hunger, showing how embracing it can improve metabolic health, boost longevity, and strengthen mental resilience. Instead of fearing hunger as a negative signal, he reframes it as a tool for better energy regulation, fat adaptation, and mindful eating. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/article/nutrition-articles/is-being-hungry-bad/ Quotes to ponder: "Hunger is not the enemy, it’s often a sign that your body is burning fuel efficiently." "When you learn to sit with hunger, you unlock mental clarity and metabolic flexibility." "Hunger, when managed wisely, can be a catalyst for improved health and longevity." Episode references: The Obesity Code: https://www.amazon.com/Obesity-Code-Unlocking-Secrets-Weight/dp/1771641258 Lifespan: Why We Age—and Why We Don’t Have To: https://www.amazon.com/Lifespan-Why-Ageand-Dont-Have/dp/1501191977 Autophagy and Fasting (NCBI): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3106288/ The Longevity Diet: https://www.amazon.com/Longevity-Diet-Discover-Activation-Regeneration/dp/0525534075 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3150: 5 Ways to Boost Your Spiritual Endurance by Cylon George of Spiritual Living For Busy People on Spiritual Resilience

2025-10-1208:56

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3150: Cylon George shows how to build spiritual endurance much like training the body, offering five practical practices to sustain faith and resilience during life’s hardest challenges. His guidance helps cultivate balance, restore energy, and stay deeply connected to your higher self when you need it most. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.spirituallivingforbusypeople.com/5-ways-to-boost-your-spiritual-endurance Quotes to ponder: "Spiritual endurance is the ability to remain connected to your spirit, your Higher Self, and your Source even when life gets difficult." "When you strengthen your connection to Source, you automatically replenish your energy, your hope, and your courage." "Spiritual practices are not about escaping your problems; they’re about fueling yourself so you can better face them." Episode references: A Return to Love: https://www.amazon.com/Return-Love-Reflections-Principles-Miracles/dp/0060927488 The Miracle of Mindfulness: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Mindfulness-Introduction-Meditation-Classics/dp/0807012394 The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3149: How To Stay Motivated by Mark Fisher of Mark Fisher Fitness on Maintaining Momentum

2025-10-1108:17

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3149: Mark Fisher highlights how the natural endorphin rush from exercise can boost motivation but also warns against overtraining and injury from chasing that “fitness high.” He shares practical strategies for sustainable motivation, including varying movement, prioritizing recovery, and incorporating nature or social connections to keep workouts enjoyable and safe. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://markfisherfitness.com/how-to-stay-motivated-and-high/ Quotes to ponder: "Some people never come to love the physical discomfort of training hard. But we all can enjoy the feeling of being accomplished." "Don’t justify joint damage because 'fitness is healthy.'" "Resist the desire to dive into a vigorous training session without a warmup!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3148: How to Improve My Metabolism - Do I Need Eat More to Lose Fat on Metabolism and Fat Loss Myths

2025-10-1010:46

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3148: Dr. Neil Malik breaks down the science of metabolism, fat loss, and why simply eating more won’t automatically boost results. He explains how to accurately measure progress, the importance of mixing up workouts, incorporating high-intensity and resistance training, and ensuring adequate rest. His practical advice helps reframe plateaus and highlights how consistency and smart adjustments can make lasting changes. Quotes to ponder: "Believe it or not, one of the best ways to know whether you're actually losing body fat, is to simply take a moment to see how your clothes are fitting." "Stress plus rest equals growth." "When it comes to meals and snacks, you're already eating the right foods, so when you feel hungry eat, but eat only until you're satisfied not until you're full." Episode references: Peak Performance: https://www.amazon.com/Peak-Performance-Elevate-Burning-Success/dp/162336793X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3147: Five Fatal Fitness Mental Roadblocks (And How To Overcome Them) by Daniel Freedman with Bach Performance

2025-10-0913:06

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3147: Daniel Freedman explains how most people fail at fitness not because of lack of knowledge, but because of self-sabotaging mental roadblocks. By overcoming fear of failure, shortcut-seeking, all-or-nothing thinking, dogmatic training approaches, and dependence on motivation, you can build sustainable discipline and lasting results in both strength and health. His insights provide a framework for cultivating resilience, adaptability, and consistency in your training. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bachperformance.com/five-fatal-fitness-mental-roadblocks-and-how-to-overcome-them/ Quotes to ponder: "Failure happens. You only fail when you refuse to get back in the game." "The short and easy road is often the quickest route to failure. Taking the hard and long road is the only real way to succeed." "Motivation serves only the limited purpose of giving you a quick initial impulse to take action. There is a better way. It’s the old-fashioned virtue called discipline." Episode references: Bigger Faster Stronger Program: https://www.biggerfasterstronger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3146: Can Meal Timing Improve Your Sleep by Riley Pearce of FreeFormFitness on How to Improve Metabolic Health

2025-10-0812:29

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3146: Riley Pearce explores how meal timing might influence your circadian rhythm, potentially improving your sleep and overall metabolic health. While new research suggests light exposure has a stronger effect than food timing on sleep hormones, small changes, like reducing food after dark and extending morning fasts, can still support better rest and energy regulation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://freeformfitness.ca/can-meal-timing-improve-your-sleep/ Quotes to ponder: "Meal timing may not have the effect on our sleep cycles that we originally thought." "Reduce food intake after sunset: if you eat this will signal all of those other periphery clocks to let your master clock know it is not time for bed yet." "The circadian rhythm is a natural cycle that is controlled by our biological clocks." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3145: [Part 2] Scared To Go To The Gym? How To Build The Confidence It Takes To Be Consistent and Get Results by JC Deen

2025-10-0709:05

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3145: JC Deen breaks down the fears many beginners face when stepping into a gym and offers practical strategies to replace self-doubt with confidence. By focusing on simple routines, realistic expectations, and gradual consistency, he shows how anyone can overcome intimidation and create lasting fitness habits. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jcdfitness.com/2014/05/scared-to-go-to-the-gym-how-to-build-the-confidence-it-takes-to-be-consistent-and-get-results/ Quotes to ponder: "Going to the gym can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be." "Confidence comes from action, and the more you take action, the more confident you’ll become." "Consistency is built one day at a time, not all at once." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3144: [Part 1] Scared To Go To The Gym? How To Build The Confidence It Takes To Be Consistent and Get Results by JC Deen

2025-10-0609:35

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3144: JC Deen explores how to overcome the fear and intimidation many feel when stepping into the gym, offering practical strategies to build self-confidence and consistency. By focusing on simple routines, realistic expectations, and a shift in mindset, he shows how anyone can transform initial anxiety into long-term progress and results. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jcdfitness.com/2014/05/scared-to-go-to-the-gym-how-to-build-the-confidence-it-takes-to-be-consistent-and-get-results/ Quotes to ponder: "Many people are afraid to go to the gym because they’re worried about what others will think of them." "The truth is, no one really cares what you’re doing in the gym." "If you want to gain confidence, you have to start small and build on each success." Episode references: StrongLifts 5x5: https://stronglifts.com/5x5/ Bigger Leaner Stronger: https://www.amazon.com/Bigger-Leaner-Stronger-Building-Ultimate/dp/1938895304 Starting Strength: https://www.amazon.com/Starting-Strength-Basic-Barbell-Training/dp/0982522738 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3143: Mindful Indulging: Having What You Want Without Guilt by Sharada Hall with Tiny Buddha on How to Be Happy

2025-10-0509:42

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3143: Sharada Hall shares how a surprising lesson with donuts helped her realize the freedom that comes from letting go of rigid self-images and guilt. By practicing mindful indulgence, she shows how we can enjoy simple pleasures without judgment, stress, or denial, leading to a more balanced and authentic relationship with our desires. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://tinybuddha.com/blog/mindful-indulging-having-what-you-want-without-guilt/ Quotes to ponder: “You only lose what you cling to.” “How liberating to be able to be honest about ourselves without judgment, to have a self-image that’s realistic, not idealistic.” “I truly believe that the stress of not doing something is more harmful than just doing it with mindfulness and then letting it go.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3142: How to Love Your Partner With All Your Mind (And Not Just Your Heart) by Vironika Tugaleva

2025-10-0510:06

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3142: Vironika Tugaleva explores why loving with all your heart doesn’t guarantee healthy relationships and how self-awareness, boundaries, and communication are just as vital as deep emotions. She offers practical insights on balancing passion with wisdom, guiding readers toward more sustainable and fulfilling connections. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.vironika.org/loving-with-all-your-heart-is-not-enough/ Quotes to ponder: "Love cannot exist without honesty, empathy, compassion, and communication." "Sometimes, people love with all their hearts, but their hearts are carrying wounds, fears, and unhealed pain." "Love is not enough. It has to be coupled with self-awareness, maturity, and a willingness to grow." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3141: New Rarely Equals Better AND Learn Whether You Win or Lose by Ross Enamait of Ross Training

2025-10-0413:17

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3141: Ross Enamait underscores that lasting progress comes not from chasing new fads or fearing setbacks, but from mastering fundamentals and learning through every experience. Victories and defeats alike offer lessons, and true growth is fueled by consistency, humility, and the resilience to keep improving over time. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://rosstraining.com/blog/2017/11/new-rarely-equals-better/ AND https://rosstraining.com/blog/2016/12/learn-whether-you-win-or-lose/ Quotes to ponder: "Rarely will something new trump something that has consistently proven effective." "Success is not permanent and failure is not fatal." "Consistency with the basics will always outweigh inconsistency with complexity." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3140: All About Vagal Tone and the Vagus Nerve Plus Vagal Toning Exercises

2025-10-0311:46

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3140: Dr. Neal Malik answers Maureen’s question by unpacking the importance of vagal tone, the activity of the vagus nerve, which helps regulate stress, digestion, and immune function. Although vagal tone can't be directly measured, practices like deep breathing, meditation, and even singing may enhance its function and support faster recovery from stress. Quotes to ponder: "Vagal tone is all about how active or inactive the vagus nerve is when sending signals to the body and brain." "One potential advantage to having a highly active vagus nerve is a faster recovery from stressful situations." "Even though vagal tone really can’t be measured accurately, there are some conditions associated with an abnormal vagal tone." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3139: The Anti-Fast Food Diet by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits on How To Eat Mindfully

2025-10-0209:21

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3139: Leo Babauta shares how slowing down with food transforms more than just meals, it reconnects us with our senses, our health, and the joy of eating. By replacing speed and convenience with mindfulness and intention, he shows how eating becomes a practice of presence, simplicity, and gratitude. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://zenhabits.net/the-anti-fast-food-diet/ Quotes to ponder: "Food is meant to nourish, to be enjoyed, to be savored." "The fast food mentality has spread into every corner of our lives. We want things quick, we want them now, and we want them easy." "Eat slowly, with gratitude and joy." Episode references: Michael Pollan - In Defense of Food: https://www.amazon.com/Defense-Food-Eaters-Manifesto/dp/0143114964 The Slow Food Movement: https://slowfood.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3138: 3 Ways Decluttering Helps You Lose Weight by Rose Lounsbury on How To Make Healthier Food Choices

2025-10-0109:39

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3138: Rose Lounsbury reveals how clearing physical clutter can directly impact your health and weight loss journey. By simplifying your environment, you reduce stress, make healthier food choices, and create the mental space needed to stay consistent with your goals. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://roselounsbury.com/3-ways-decluttering-helps-you-lose-weight/ Quotes to ponder: "When you walk into your home and see piles of laundry, dirty dishes, or a stack of mail, your stress level automatically increases." "When we have less stress, we’re more likely to make healthier choices around food." "Decluttering makes it easier to access the things we need to live a healthy lifestyle." Episode references: Spark Joy: https://www.amazon.com/Spark-Joy-Illustrated-Organizing-Tidying/dp/1607749726 The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing/dp/1607747308 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3137: Sample Rate: How The Fast Food Industry Hooks You (And How To Reclaim Your Diet) by Tyler Tervooren of Riskology

2025-09-3010:26

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3137: Tyler Tervooren explores how applying the concept of a "sample rate" to your decisions can dramatically improve your outcomes. By testing more ideas quickly and discarding what doesn’t work, you create more opportunities for success while reducing the risk of wasting time on dead ends. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.riskology.co/sample-rate/ Quotes to ponder: "The sample rate is simply how many times you try something in a given period of time." "The more you try, the better your chances of success - assuming you learn from each attempt." "Small experiments allow you to figure out what works without risking everything on one big bet." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition