How To Optimise Human Nutrition - Max Lugavere | Modern Wisdom Podcast 560

Confusing Science

Nutrition science often appears confusing due to its reliance on observational studies, which are inherently weak and susceptible to biases. Max Lugavere explains that these studies are primarily based on epidemiology, as conducting long-term randomized control trials is impractical 1. This leads to issues like healthy user bias, where individuals who engage in one healthy behavior are likely to engage in others, skewing results. Lugavere highlights the complexity of nutrition science, stating,

Nutrition science is very difficult because people don't eat single foods in isolation; they consume dietary patterns.

--- Max Lugavere

This complexity allows for multiple interpretations and manipulation of data to fit preconceived ideologies 2.

   

Food Compass

The Food Compass controversy exemplifies the limitations of current nutritional studies. Max Lugavere criticizes the Food Compass, developed by Tufts University, for its flawed nutrient profiling system that ranked foods like Frosted Mini Wheats above nutrient-dense options like poached eggs 3. This system failed to penalize ultra-processed foods adequately, contributing to public confusion about nutrition. Lugavere argues that the reliance on observational studies further complicates the issue, as these studies often do not account for the myriad of external variables affecting health outcomes 1. He emphasizes the need for a more common-sense approach to nutrition, noting,

We need to get back to regain a bit of common sense when it comes to nutrition.

--- Max Lugavere

This highlights the challenge of creating reliable dietary guidelines.

   

Caution

Max Lugavere advocates for the precautionary principle in nutrition, suggesting a cautious approach to new food products and supplements. He argues that the food industry has repeatedly introduced harmful products, such as trans fats, only to recall them after significant damage has been done 4. This principle implies treating new products as guilty until proven innocent, prioritizing consumer safety over industry interests. Lugavere stresses the importance of skepticism, stating,

The industry has violated our trust enough times where I think it's completely reasonable for your average person or parent to just be a little bit more skeptical.

--- Max Lugavere

This approach encourages individuals to critically evaluate the safety of what they consume.