The Aware Families Podcast takes a practical, science-based look at how to keep your family healthy using a Functional Medicine perspective. Episodes are hosted by a pediatric physician (Tom Flass MD) and a family nurse practitioner (Brittany Coburn NP-C) who are trained in both conventional and functional medicine. They are navigating the challenges of the modern world with their own families and patients and share what they have learned along the way. A range of topics that impact your family’s health are covered, including nutrition, sleep, stress and mental health, exercise and physical activity, connection and community and toxic exposures in our air, food and water. This podcast strives to deliver real-world actionable health information to other parents looking to improve their lives and the lives of their children.
In this episode, Tom and Brittany give their ”10,000 foot view” on basic functional medicine nutrition principles. The touch on issues with population studies of nutrition versus personalized ”N of 1” approach, and how there has been some bad science in the past that sent us down the wrong path from a health policy standpoint.ย
They discuss the importance of dietary protein for overall health and metabolism and taking both protein quantity and quality into account.ย The vital role of fiber in our health is also reviewed, as well as the damaging effects of excessive sugar.ย
They make the point that dietary fat is not the enemy, but it pays to be selective about your oils. The importance of adequate long chain omega-3 versus short chain omega-3 in the diet is also reviewed.ย
