In this episode, we uncover the hidden dangers in our environment, and their profound impact on children’s brain development. While the effects of toxins may seem subtle in individual cases, the damage at the population level is anything but.We explore the scientific challenges of studying these exposures, from identifying critical windows of vulnerability to linking pollutants with intellectual and behavioral outcomes. Despite mounting evidence connecting toxins to ADHD, autism, and other mental disorders, public health protections remain alarmingly inadequate.Tune in as we break down the research, and spotlight the risks.
Link to article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25581143/
Can your personality determine what ends up being part of your diet?
In this episode of The Brain Plate, we dive into a systematic review published in Advances in Nutrition that analyzed 24 studies across different cultures to explore how personality traits like neuroticism, openness, and conscientiousness influence dietary habits.
From the Mediterranean preferences of extroverts to the sweet tooth of the neurotic type, the findings are as fascinating as they are revealing. However, we don’t stop at the surface, this episode also takes a very critical look at the article’s methodology and assumptions. What biases are there in the research design? Are certain cultural or psychological nuances being overlooked?
Join us as we discuss the science, question the setup, and raise awareness about how psychology intersects with nutrition, and why quality research matters.
Whether you're a psychologist, nutritionist, or just curious about why you crave what you crave, this episode serves up insight with a side of skepticism.
Full article (Esposito et al., 2021): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8321831/pdf/nmaa166.pdf?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR4QGRZATimnfKWwMGtZ1q7kXWsRkfxO170b1R9dGgw0S6eIfB_ebM8757VP1Q_aem_oxHpxPGy_1h3MnBIHXonDw
Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating world of creatine supplementation and its surprising effects on brain function, mental health, and cognitive performance. While generally people know creatine can help you lift heavier weights, the latest science reveals it might also help you think clearer, recover from brain injuries faster, and even support mental health.
We break down a comprehensive 2022 research review that analyzed dozens of studies on creatine's brain benefits. Learn why creatine works best when your brain is under stress. We explore promising research on creatine as a potential add-on treatment for depression, especially in women.
We also take some time to talk about how creatine supplementation could help reduce hospital stays and improve recovery after concussions and traumatic brain injuries, as well as why your brain responds differently to creatine than your muscles (and what that means for you).
Bottom Line: Creatine isn't just about bigger biceps – it might be your brain's new best friend. Tune in to discover if this affordable, well-researched supplement could give your mind the boost it's been looking for.
Plus, stick around for our special Brain Health Q&A segment where we answer your most pressing questions!
Link to article: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8912287/pdf/nutrients-14-00921.pdf
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Your natural sleep-wake preferences could reveal surprising insights about your personality and likelihood to engage in risky behaviors.We explore research connecting chronotype to the Big Five personality traits.
Morning people are more conscientious and emotionally stable, while night owls show higher impulsivity and sensation-seeking. Most intriguingly, evening chronotypes demonstrate significantly higher disinhibition, a trait linked to risky decision-making and criminal behavior.
What you will learn:
* How chronotype shapes personality profiles
* Gender differences in these relationships
* Future applications in criminal justice and rehabilitation
Key Findings:
* Morning-types: higher conscientiousness, emotional stability, extraversion
* Evening-types: elevated disinhibition, reduced conscientiousness
* Men show higher thrill-seeking regardless of chronotype
Whether you're interested in psychology, criminal justice, or simply curious about what your sleep preferences reveal about you, this episode uncovers fascinating connections between our biological clocks and behavior.
Citation to the article: de Lau, M., & Foushee, R. D. (2025). Associations among chronotype, big five personality factors, and sensation-seeking in two adult samples. International Journal of Psychological Studies, 17(2), 39–48. https://doi.org/10.5539/ijps.v17n2p39
Can polyphenols—found in berries, teas, and dark chocolate—actually enhance brain function? A new clinical trial from Nutrients (Feb 2025) by Carrillo et al. investigates whether a polyphenol-rich supplement improves cognition and boosts key brain biomarkers (BDNF and CREB) in healthy adults.In this episode, we break down the study’s design (92 participants, crossover trial), the cognitive tests they used, and the eye-opening results: better attention, higher cognitive scores, and increased neuroprotective proteins.What does this mean for brain health and prevention? Should you rely on supplements or stick to whole foods? We discuss the implications and share our take.Tune in now for science-packed insights that could shape your cognitive future!Reference: Carrillo, J.Á.; Arcusa, R.; Xandri-Martínez, R.; Cerdá, B.; Zafrilla, P.; Marhuenda, J. Impact of Polyphenol-Rich Nutraceuticals on Cognitive Function and Neuroprotective Biomarkers: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients 2025, 17, 601.
Prepare for a fascinating blend of courtroom drama and scientific inquiry as we explore the infamous "Twinkie defense" from the 1979 trial of Dan White. What seemed like an unusual legal strategy referencing sugary snacks raises profound questions about the connection between diet, mental health, and behavior.In this episode, we talk about the controversial case that argued poor nutrition, including a diet high in processed junk foods, could influence mental state and decision-making. While the defense helped reduce White's sentence, it sparked public outrage and ethical debates about accountability, personal responsibility, and the role of external factors in shaping behavior.Using this case, we delve into how diet could affect brain function, mood, and even actions. Is there truth to the idea that what we eat can profoundly shape our mental health, or was the "Twinkie defense" a stretch?
In this episode, we explore three distinct approaches to our relationship with food: emotional eating, restrained eating, and intuitive eating.
We also discuss the Acceptance Model of Intuitive Eating, which illustrates how intuitive eating fosters a positive body image and improved mental health by encouraging body acceptance and mindfulness around food.
This episode is your gateway to understanding how these approaches impact not only your physical health but also your mental and emotional well-being.
Have you ever had a "gut feeling" about something? Or felt butterflies in your stomach when nervous? It turns out, these sensations are more than just figures of speech—they’re signs of the powerful connection between your brain and gut.In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of the brain-gut connection and how your digestive system—often called the “second brain”—impacts your mood, cognition, and overall health. From the enteric nervous system (ENS) to the gut microbiome, we break down the science behind how your gut and brain communicate through intricate chemical and nerve pathways.We’ll discuss:🧠 How the gut-brain axis influences digestion, mood, and cognitive function🍽️ The best foods to support a healthy gut and boost brain function🦠 The role of probiotics, fiber, and anti-inflammatory foods in gut health😌 Practical tips to nurture your gut-brain connection at homeWhether you’re curious about how diet affects mental health or looking for ways to improve digestion and reduce stress, this episode has something for you! Tune in and discover how taking care of your gut might be the key to a sharper mind and a healthier body.Enjoying the episode? Let us know! We’d love to dive deeper into the links between gut health and conditions like depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative disorders in future episodes.
🎙️ Welcome to The Brain Plate! 🍽️ 🧠
In this debut episode, we introduce a podcast blending the science of nutrition and psychology to help you live a more balanced life. Whether it’s improving focus, easing anxiety, or embracing holistic wellness, The Brain Plate delivers research-backed insights and practical tips in real-life terms.
Meet Your Co-Hosts
Get to know our hosts as they share their credentials, unique perspectives, and the story behind their dynamic partnership.
Why The Brain Plate?
Discover how connecting nutrition and psychology can transform your well-being, with insights into the mind-body connection, mental health, and cognitive performance.
What to Expect
Monthly episodes featuring topics like:
Join the Journey
Subscribe, review, and follow us to start living your healthiest, most balanced life. Let’s dig in!
The holidays are painted as a season of joy and togetherness, but for many, they bring stress, financial strain, and emotional pressure. In this episode, we’ll explore the unseen pressures of holiday traditions, consumerism, and societal expectations—and how they impact our well-being. Tune in for reflective questions, practical tips, and empowering ideas to help you reclaim your joy and design a holiday season that truly aligns with your values. Let’s ditch the “shoulds” and focus on what matters most!
Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X.
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Black Friday is almost here, and we’re sharing tips to help you navigate the frenzy with confidence and calm. Learn how to create a shopping plan, stick to your budget, and avoid impulse buys—whether you’re shopping in-store or online. Plus, we’ll share simple strategies for managing stress and remind you that no deal is worth sacrificing your peace of mind. Let’s make this Black Friday smarter, not harder!
Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X.
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In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of self-compassion—the practice of treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a close friend. Unlike self-esteem, which often depends on external validation and comparisons, self-compassion is about accepting yourself fully, flaws and all. We explore why so many people struggle with self-compassion, often mistaking self-criticism for motivation, and discuss the science behind how embracing kindness toward yourself can actually increase resilience, motivation, and emotional well-being. We'll also break down the difference between self-compassion and toxic positivity, showing how acknowledging and accepting difficult emotions can lead to true personal growth. Finally, we’ll share practical techniques like journaling prompts, mindfulness exercises, and Dr. Kristin Neff’s “Self-Compassion Break” to help you start your own journey toward self-kindness. Stick around until the end for a self-compassion challenge that you can try this week to cultivate a kinder, gentler relationship with yourself. Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/worldsapartpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldsapartwordstogether
In this episode, we tackle the topic of self-image and the challenge of social comparison in our hyper-connected world. With social media, work, and even social gatherings offering endless points of comparison, it’s easy to fall into a cycle of self-doubt and eroded self-esteem. But what exactly is self-image, and how is it formed? We’ll explore the factors shaping our self-perception, the different types of social comparisons we often make, and the impact of these on our mental health. Plus, we’ll share practical strategies to help you build a stronger, more resilient self-image. Join us as we learn to embrace our unique journey and focus on personal growth over comparison. Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/worldsapartpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldsapartwordstogether
In today’s episode, we dive into the benefits of incorporating a little movement into our lives every day. In a world where “busy” is the norm, setting aside time for exercise might feel like just another box to check off. But what if these small daily exercises actually held the key to big improvements in how we feel and function? We’ll explore five powerful reasons to make light activity a daily habit—from boosting energy and reducing stress to improving sleep and strengthening your immune system. Whether it’s a quick walk, a few yoga stretches, or a moment of mindfulness, these little shifts can make a big difference. Tune in to learn how to fit fitness into your routine effortlessly and reap the rewards! Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/worldsapartpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldsapartwordstogether
In this episode, we dive into the growing appeal of minimalism and why so many people are embracing this lifestyle. From a shift in priorities to economic necessity, the minimalist movement offers a pathway to a simpler, more meaningful life. We'll explore the mental health benefits, the desire for freedom, and how minimalism encourages us to focus on experiences over material possessions. Plus, we’ll share practical tips on decluttering, organizing, and making intentional choices to help you start your own minimalist journey. Tune in to discover how living with less can lead to more happiness and fulfillment! Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/worldsapartpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldsapartwordstogether
As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold, the crisp air invites us to savor the beauty of fall. In this cozy episode, Leah and Marit share their favorite autumn traditions, from scenic drives through breathtaking foliage to cozy nights in with hearty meals and flickering candles. Leah discusses her love for nature walks, home decor that embodies the season, and her go-to roasted veggie recipes. Marit shares her appreciation for the little moments that make fall special, her weekly soup tradition, and the joy of breaking out sweaters and boots. But that’s not all! They also reveal their bucket list of fall activities they hope to try one day—think pumpkin patches, iconic New England fairs, and more! Join us as we dive into the magic of fall, explore seasonal flavors, and dream about new experiences. What are your favorite autumn activities? Share your thoughts with us—we can’t wait to hear them! Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: / worldsapartwordstogether X (Twitter): / worldsapartpod TikTok: / worldsapartwordstogether
As life gets busier with the demands of college, new jobs, and adult responsibilities, managing your time becomes more crucial than ever. In this episode, we explore six powerful time management strategies to help you stay organized and reduce stress. From prioritizing tasks with the Eisenhower Matrix to using techniques like time blocking, batching, and the Pomodoro Technique, you'll learn how to regain control of your busy schedule. Tune in for practical tips on staying focused, eliminating distractions, and making room for rest while navigating the chaos of everyday life. Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/worldsapartpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldsapartwordstogether
In this episode, we dive deep into the idea that life is a series of interconnected events, decisions, and moments that shape who we are today. From chance encounters to unexpected setbacks, every experience serves a purpose—whether or not we can see it in the moment. We explore how embracing both the highs and lows of life is essential to our personal growth, and how resilience is often born from moments of struggle. Together, we’ll reflect on the significance of life’s turning points and discuss how letting go of expectations can lead to a more fulfilling, mindful existence. By focusing on gratitude, even for the smallest things, we can find beauty in everyday life and unlock new levels of self-awareness. Tune in as we challenge you to take a pause, reflect on your journey, and discover the lessons hidden within the moments that have shaped you. Ready to shift your perspective? Let’s embrace the journey together. Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/worldsapartpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldsapartwordstogether
In this episode, we dive into the complexities of early adulthood, where the excitement of self-discovery is often matched by the pressure to succeed. We explore the concept of personal limitations—those unique boundaries we all have—and how recognizing them can lead to growth and fulfillment. From learning to say "no" to balancing work, relationships, and personal expectations, we discuss practical strategies for navigating life within your limits. Tune in to learn how embracing these limitations can lead to a more authentic, joyful life.
Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X.
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IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/
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In this week’s episode, we welcome Giorgia, who shares her inspiring journey through unexpected challenges and transitions. Life doesn’t always go as planned, and Giorgia's story is a powerful reminder that even the most disappointing situations can be a springboard for growth. From living in her brother's one-bedroom apartment with his girlfriend to finding herself in a position to offer support when least expected, Giorgia’s experiences show us how resilience, connection, and humor can help us navigate life’s turbulent moments. Tune in to hear how embracing uncertainty can lead to deeper insights and unexpected strength! Please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform, and leave us a rating and review. We appreciate you! You can also watch episode clips of our weekly episodes on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Twitter/X. Follow us on social media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/worldsapartwordstogether/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/worldsapartpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldsapartwordstogether