Alimentary! – Details, episodes & analysis

Ep 51: In this episode of Alimentary! we are diving into a topic that affects every single one of us—whether we realize it or not: the hidden impact of EMFs on our health, longevity, and overall wellness. From smartphones and Wi-Fi to wearable devices and smart homes, our modern lives are surrounded by invisible waves of electromagnetic fields. So, what do these exposures really mean for our bodies, our brains, and even our fertility?

To help us unpack this, we’re joined by Arthur Menard—Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and founder of HAVN, the world’s first EMF-blocking apparel designed for daily wear. HAVN’s patented WaveStopper™ fabric is trusted by doctors, elite athletes, and even the U.S. Air Force to reduce radiation exposure that can affect hormones, fertility, and cognitive function. Since launching, HAVN has helped tens of thousands of people worldwide take control of their wellbeing in our hyper-connected world.

In this conversation, Arthur and I talk about how witnessing his grandparents battle cancer influenced his career choice and lead him to study EMFs, and why it is so important to become aware of our exposure to protect our health. He shares some tips about how we can reduce our exposure in addition to telling us about how he has developed clothing which can block EMFs. Arthur’s mission is simple but powerful: to help people live longer, feel better, and thrive in an increasingly connected world. This episode brings science, innovation, and actionable strategies together in a way you won’t want to miss.

The store cupboard staple for this episode is the humble carrot - turns out it isn't so humble after ll!

Resources

Arthur's Website https://checkout.havnwear.com/

This is not a paid advertisement for HAVN Clothing, but if you should choose to check out their products and purchase from them, Arthur has kindly offered 15% Discount Code - ALIMENTARY - to listeners of this show.Electromagnetic Fields https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/physical_agents/electromagnetic_fields/electromagnetic_fields/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8484862/https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/healthy-carrot-recipes/

https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2022/03/19/homemade-red-cabbage-coleslaw/

https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2021/10/17/carrot-sweet-potato-butternut-squash-red-lentils/

The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMT

Music composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition.

Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie

Ayurveda is the world’s oldest system of natural health, with roots tracing back more than 6,000 years. Originating in India, this holistic healing tradition is centered on balancing the body’s energies to create lasting health and vitality. It offers a complete approach to wellness, weaving together nutrition, lifestyle, herbal remedies, and spiritual practices.

Our guest on Alimentary today, Nidhi Pandya, is an Ayurvedic doctor, international speaker, educator, and author of the book Your Body Already Knows. Nidhi's passion lies in empowering us to become self-aware and live intuitively, achieving Mind-Body Balance. She has gained popularity online and has become known for distilling complex ancient scriptures into practical advice for the modern day. Her 'Inner Climate' method, taught globally, focuses on realigning the mind and body for optimal health, healing, and longevity.

This episode will inspire you to look at daily habits differently and will empower you to use basic health habits to increase your energy and enjoyment of life.

The store cupboard staple for this episode is rice!

Other resources

Website https://www.nidhi.me/Nidhi's Book Your Body Already Knows: Intuitive Ayurveda 21 Days to Reset your Gut, Sleep, Mood, and Health: Bhanshali Pandya, Nidhi, Hemsley, Jasmine: 9781786789280: Amazon.com: Books

Nidhi's book has received high praise from various thoughtleaders, including:

·       Deepak Chopra calls it “A succinct guide for anyone seeking an integrative approach to well-being at all levels—body, mind, and spirit.”

·       Sadhguru sayshe “Deeply appreciates Nidhi Bhanshali Pandya’s efforts to bring the science of Ayurveda with a fresh look to the world.”

·       Dr SuhasKshirsagar says “Ayurveda is the original lifestyle and personalized medicine, and it allows us to develop heightened awareness forintuitive healing. Nidhi Bhanshali Pandya has done an amazing job of presenting this ancient wisdom for a modern audience."

Timing of meals https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2023/chrononutrition-timing-meals-matters-your-health

Curried Rice Salad https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2021/10/22/curried-rice-salad/

Safety when cooking and re-heating rice https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322775#:~:text=It%20is%20possible%20to%20reheat%20rice%20safely%20as,called%20Bacillus%20cereus%2C%20which%20survive%20some%20cooking%20processes.

https://www.food.gov.uk/sites/default/files/media/document/sfbb-indian-05-cooking-06-rice_0.pdf

Recipes https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/healthy-rice-recipesThe Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMT

Music composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition.

Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie

According to the Cambridge dictionary, “longevity means living for a long time or remaining popular and useful for a long time.” Of course, I would like to live a long life, as long as my loved ones anyway, and I would like to be independent and happily busy for as long as possible. We know that nutrition, exercise, sleep and wellbeing are important but is there another ingredient in this secret sauce for living with as much vitality as possible, for as long as possible?Scientific studies show that being happy and grateful has a massive positive impact on our physical health. But there is another way of thinking which can also contribute and that is being curious. According to an article by George Lee (link in notes) “by encouraging our desire to seek out new knowledge, ask questions, and explore the world around us, curiosity may help to improve our memory, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and increase our resilience in the face of stress and adversity.”Miles Spencer is, in his own words, a curious guy from Pittsburgh. His day job has been to help create over 1,100 jobs while founding, financing, building and exiting three digital media companies. Prior to that, he was a Venture Principal at Capital Express (register.com), hosted MoneyHunt on PBS (pre- SharkTank), led over 1,500 people across 14 miles of open sea on kayak, and trekked 1,100 miles through the deserts of Saudi, Jordan and Syria… and A Line in the Sand ended up an Amazon Bestseller in the Middle East.Miles joins me on the podcast to chat about his adventure and his adventurous spirit which be believes has helped him to remain vital, active and interested in life into his seventh decade. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Miles Spencer, author of "A Line in the Sand"The store cupboard staple for this episode is the amazing prebiotic and versatile asparagus!Other ResourcesMiles' website https://milesspencer.com/Link to book https://www.amazon.com/Line-Sand-Novel-Miles-Spencer-ebook/dp/B0CX25Y2X4https://discoveryvillages.com/senior-living-blog/maintaining-a-curious-mind-as-you-age-the-key-factor-to-longevity/The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMTMusic composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition. Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ieHealthy recipes for Asparagus https://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/19289/ingredients/vegetables/asparagus/

In this conversation about the power of play, I chat to Deirdre O'Reilly who is a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, who specialises in Play Therapy. Deirdre tells us why play is so important and explains the structure of a consultation, including the initial work with parents. We mention the many challenges and issues that might arise in family situations which communication through play might support, and Deirdre generously shares her own experience. The powers of play are fascinating!The store cupboard staple for this episode will help to keep the doctor away - The good old fashioned apple 🍏Other resourcesDeirdre's Linked In ie.linkedin.com/in/deirdre-o-reilly-0b256831https://www.creativeireland.gov.ie/en/event/creative-facilitators-language-to-encourage-creative-play-for-children/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/communicationthroughplay/posts/hello-everyone-for-those-of-you-that-dont-know-me-im-deirdre-oreilly-the-face-be/3379191112144885/ Instagram Deirdre Gilbride (@communicationthroughplay) • Instagram photos and videoshttps://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2023/08/10/how-to-wash-fruit-and-vegetables/Studieshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30126932/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16712638/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7810460/Recipeshttps://thecleaneatingcouple.com/30-healthy-apple-recipes/https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2022/03/15/apple-strawberry-crumble-gluten-free/The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMTMusic composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition. Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie

It is a fact that what we think can impact our physical health, and so this episode explores the benefits of two more tools, which therapists can use to support clients, neuro linguistic programming and emotional freedom technique. Our conversation also covers mobile phone use, how we talk to ourselves and the necessity of a good nights sleep (which Pauline says is the alarm bell for mental health).

My guest on this episode is Pauline Clarke, Mindnua and she has trained in the following practices and therapies:

• Mindfulness Facilitator & Counselling

• M.B.C.T. (Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy)

• Reiki Master Teaching

• N.L.P. (Neuro Linguistic Programming)

• Solution Based Counselling

• E.F.T. (Emotional Freedom Technique)

• Neuroscience Coaching

• Meditation Coaching

• Trauma Healing

She regularly talks to groups of all ages and is a great advocate for mindfulness and mental health in Co Cavan, so I know that you will enjoy my chat with Pauline Clarke.

P.S. The store cupboard staple is the beautifully aromatic herb, Rosemary.

Other Resources

Pauline's Website https://www.mindnua.com/

Meditating with Pauline https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxKhHnXdaVk

Penny Sharkey https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lyn-sharkey/episodes/Cognitive-Behavioural-Therapy-Explained-with-Penny-Sharkey-e2tq3cd/a-abo6dau

Breandan Larkin https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lyn-sharkey/episodes/Mental-Health-Matters-Counselling--Psychotherapy-and-Hypnotherapy-Explained-with-Breandan-Larkin-e2n7n85/a-abfvp0r

Willie Horton https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lyn-sharkey/episodes/18-Re-train-your-brain-to-succeed-with-Willie-Horton-e21k25n/a-a7ndj54

The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMT

Music composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition.

Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie

Recipes using Rosemary https://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/20693/ingredients/herbs-spices/herbs/rosemary/

In this episode of Alimentary, I have a lovely chat with a philosopher, who has spent years exploring the ethical, environmental, and social implications of our food choices. In new book Hungry, Beautiful Animals, author Matthew C. Halteman aims to transform our perception of vegan living by focusing on what it promotes rather than what it restricts. Now, I am not a vegan myself but I am concerned about our food chain and love animals so, this was a really interesting conversation. Some of the perspectives that Matthew shares, we can absolutely apply to other areas of our lives.

His book is a heartfelt, humane, and humorous exploration of how going vegan has brought abundance into his life. The book is a love letter to life itself in all forms, and presents an imaginative vision of a true, beautiful, and good world that motivates and sustains our deepest desires to be well. It’s not about shame and blame, but about finding joy in the journey. Matthew is professor of philosophy at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and a fellow at the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics in the UK. He is the author of Compassionate Eating as Care of Creation and co-editor of Philosophy Comes to Dinner: Arguments about the Ethics of Eating. He brings a philosopher’s precision and a dog-lover’s joyto explaining how human connection, humor, and forgiveness (for oneself and others) has been a part of his journey. So, I hope that you will enjoy my conversation with Matthew C Halteman. The store cupboard staple for this episode is Broccoli, which I can't believe hasn't been featured before!! Resourceshttps://calvin.edu/people/matthew-c-haltemanhttps://www.hungrybeautifulanimals.com/Effects of different cooking methods on health-promoting compounds of broccoli - PMC https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2722699/https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/sulforaphane#section=TopDietary Sources of Lutein and Zeaxanthin Carotenoids and Their Role in Eye Health - PMC https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3705341/https://www.eatingwell.com/gallery/8076952/broccoli-recipes-to-make-forever/The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMT

Interview with Sally Pacholok about Vitamin B12 Deficiency #16 Could It be B12? An Interview with Sally Pacholok R.N. by Alimentary!Importance of Vitamin B12 #11 Why Vitamin B12 is so Important for Optimum Health by Alimentary!

Tips on a Vegan Diet #11 Why Vitamin B12 is so Important for Optimum Health by Alimentary!Music composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition. Lyn's website Homepage - Lyn Sharkey Nutrition

Any sort of gastro intestinal issue, even if non-fatal, can really impact our quality of life and our enjoyment of our food. Gastro oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of these conditions which is on the rise. In this episode of Alimentary! I had a really interesting discussion about GERD with Lauren O'Connor. We talked about the difference between occasional heartburn or reflux and GERD, and some of the surprising symptoms which might indicate an issue. We also chatted about lactose intolerance which can be a driver if not managed, the impact of stress, timing of meals and how a personalized approach works best. It was great to hear a perspective from someone who is not only a professional in this field, but also has dealt with this condition herself.My guest Lauren O'Connor MS,RDN, RYT is a private-practice dietitian, five-time cookbook author, and freelance writer with a passion for gut health, fitness, and culinary nutrition. She is a regular contributor to health and wellness publications with numerous articles in Health and Livestrong. On her website, NutriSavvyHealth.com, she shares evidence-based nutrition advice and a wide variety of gut-healthy recipes for everyday living. In addition to all of this, Lauren is a yoga teacher and enjoys hiking in her local hills. She is also a member of the community singing group Band of Singers. ResourcesLauren's Instagram @laurenoconnor.rd Lauren's Linkedin @lauren-oconnor-ms-rdn-rytLauren's Facebook NutriSavvyHealth Follow @theHealingGERDrd on TwitterLauren's website http://nutrisavvyhealth.comhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34326345/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28257716/The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMTMusic composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition. Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie

So, Polyphenols might not be a term that rolls off the tongue, but these plant compounds have some pretty impressive health benefits, from reducing inflammation to fighting oxidative stress, and even supporting healthy aging. In this short episode of Alimentary! Lyn breaks down what polyphenols are, where we can find them, and most importantly, why they are so important for our health. So, if you are interested in living and ageing well, I hope that you stick around because you won’t want to miss this episode!ResourcesPolyphenols: Benefits & Types | StudySmarterhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6160559/Tea Polyphenols in Promotion of Human Health - PubMedDark chocolate: An overview of its biological activity, processing, and fortification approaches - PubMedHealth Benefits of Quercetin in Age-Related Diseases - PubMedPlant polyphenols as dietary antioxidants in human health and disease - PubMedSign up for my newsletter www.lynsharkeynutrition.ieMusic composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition

Recently I read an article from 2020 which noted that colo-rectal cancer diagnosis in young adults was on the increase and has been for some time. So, in this episode we are taking a deeper dive into bowel health, from discussing the health of our cells right through to the importance of bowel screening and what is involved in that. My guest is Thanasie Kaldanis, who has been a qualified nurse for 20 years. He initially worked in acute and emergency settings and for the last 12 years he has worked as a cancer data registrar, with National Cancer Registry Ireland. Thanasie is also the Health 7 Wellbeing Officer with local GAA Club Cornafean in Cavan. He is passionate about bringing people together to create a healthy and thriving community for everyone, In addition to bowel health, we discuss the importance of younger generations attitude to food, challenges to changing habits and how we can encourage a healthier lifestyle at community level. Towards the end, he explains how bowel screening in Ireland is carried out, what is involved and why not to fear it. The store cupboard staple for this episode is Yoghurt and natural 9dairy or soya) is best. If you think you don't like the taste, listen in for some simple ideas to incorporate it in everyday ways. Resources HSE Website Bowel Screening https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/bowel-screening/ Yale Medicine Report https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/colorectal-cancer-in-young-people Pubmed Report https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8371519/#:~:text=This%20systematic%20review%20demonstrates%20the%20increasing%20incidence%20of,a%20young%20adult%20who%20presents%20with%20gastrointestinal%20symptoms. The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMT Recipes https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2024/07/05/choccy-chia-treat-pot/ https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2025/01/03/oat-egg-berry-pancakes/ https://www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie/2021/10/01/oat-bread/ Music composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition. Lyn's website www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie

In this episode of Alimentary! I am delighted to welcome Penny Sharkey (and yes we are related!) to discuss how Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be used either by itself or with other therapeutic tools in therapy to support mental health and wellbeing. Penny is a professional counsellor and psychotherapist, and a member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). She holds a First-Class Honours Degree in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy, a Degree in Social Studies, and a master’s Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Currently, she works in a private practice in Celbridge and Maynooth, in Co. Kildare.

From an early age, Penny developed a curiosity in how the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit worked. This passion was sparked by witnessing a friend struggle with severe anxiety and depression and seeing how effective therapy was in transforming their life. That experience motivated her to help others navigate their own challenges and find healing. In her practice, she strives to create a warm, accepting, and honest environment where clients feel safe to explore their feelings. Her therapeutic approach is flexible and client-centered, emphasizing empathy and tailored interventions to meet each person’s unique needs. She believes in the power of active listening, congruence, and guidance to help clients discover meaning, build resilience, and achieve personal growth.

She primarily works with Person-Centred Therapy, Choice Theory/Reality Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to support clients on their journey towards well-being. She said that it has been so fulfilling to work in supporting those who are seeking support, helping them find their own strength and clarity in times of distress. Other Resources Penny Sharkey Linkedin https://ie.linkedin.com/in/penny-sharkey-a4205527a Penny Sharkey Private Practice website https://www.thelisteningco.ie/ IACP List of Therapists https://iacp.ie/page/therapists?co=6&cat=11 HSE National Counselling Service https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/ncs/ Mental Health Ireland https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/get-support/ Aware https://www.aware.ie/ Youth Mental Health https://jigsaw.ie/ The Encylopaedia of Healing Foods by Dr Michael Murray, Dr Joseph Pizzorno with Lara Pizzorno MA, LMT Recipes for Kale https://www.jamieoliver.com/inspiration/killer-kale-recipes/ https://www.loveandlemons.com/kale-recipes/ Music composed by cascreativearts, copyright Lyn Sharkey Nutrition. www.lynsharkeynutrition.ie