The evolutionary science behind why you can’t lose weight and how to avoid 5 modern food mistakes | Prof Daniel Lieberman
Aug 6, 2026 · 52m
Summary
Professor Daniel Lieberman joins Zoe Science & Nutrition to discuss his book *Fed Up*, explaining how human evolution shapes our modern relationship with food. He argues that our bodies, adapted for scarcity and high activity, struggle with today’s abundance of ultra-processed options. Lieberman debunks myths like the paleo diet and simple calorie counting, emphasizing that no single optimal diet exists. Instead, he advocates for diverse, minimally processed foods to align with our biological needs.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Zoe Science and Nutrition
Evolutionary 'Why' vs Medical 'How' and Gut Health
Human Body Fat, Reproduction, and Energy Costs
The Evolutionary Impact of Cooking and Fire
Transition to Farming: Benefits and Trade-offs
Debunking Paleo Myths and Calorie Counting
Hunger, Willpower, and GLP-1 Drugs
Obesity Epidemic and Zoe Daily 30 Supplement
Managing Environment and Behavioral Choices
Sleep, Cortisol, and the Stress-Weight Loop
Physical Activity, Food Environment, and Conclusion
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