Plant Based Curious
Are you curious about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle but don’t know where to begin?
Welcome to The Plant-Based Curious Podcast—your go-to guide for embracing a healthier, more sustainable, and fulfilling way of living. Hosted by Diane Randall, a certified holistic coach, life coach, and whole living consultant with over 22 years of experience in plant-based and vegan living, this podcast is your friendly companion on the journey to thriving with plants.
Each bi-weekly episode dives into the world of plant-based nutrition, going vegan, holistic living, and the science of behavior change. Diane shares her personal stories, practical tips, and expert insights to help you navigate the transition with confidence and joy. Plus, you’ll hear from inspiring guests—practitioners, nutritionists, holistic health experts, athletes and everyday people—who share their experiences, bust myths, and offer actionable advice to make plant-based living simple and sustainable.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a vegetarian, or just a curious omnivore dipping your toes into the world of plants, this podcast is a judgment-free zone for learning, growing, and transforming your life—one bite at a time.
Got questions, feedback, or a story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us using the link in the episode description.
Tune in, get inspired, and let’s explore the power of plant-based living together. Your journey starts here!
Plant Based Curious
Gut Health Secrets: How Your Microbiome Holds the Key to Weight Loss, Energy & Longevity with Anu Simh
In this eye-opening episode, Diane Randall sits down with Anu Simh, functional health coach and gut health guru, to explore how your microbiome holds the key to weight loss, energy, and longevity. Anu debunks probiotic myths, exposes how processed foods starve good bacteria, and shares why sleep is non-negotiable for gut balance. Learn how a 1-week plant-based shift can transform your microbial health, why Ozempic harms muscle, and how to build a “forever gut” with simple, sustainable habits. Whether you’re battling bloat or chasing longevity, this episode is your roadmap to thriving from the inside out.
Key Takeaways
🌱 Gut Health 101
- Your microbiome is a “gift” passed from mother to child (via birth) and thrives on fiber (aim for 40-45g/day!).
- A resilient microbiome fights pathogens, prevents inflammation, and produces 90% of your serotonin (your “happy hormone”).
- Ultra-processed foods starve good bacteria and feed harmful ones (think: gas, bloating, brain fog).
- Poor sleep and stress erode microbial diversity in as little as 1-2 nights.
- A plant-forward diet reduces saturated fat (harmful to mitochondria) and feeds microbes with diverse fibers.
- 1 week of eating plants can radically shift your microbiome (backed by the Pittsburgh/South Africa diet swap study).
- You can’t out-supplement a bad diet. Probiotics are temporary; grow your own bugs with fiber-rich foods.
- Choose probiotics with specific strains (e.g., Lactobacillus ruteri for gut integrity, BB Lactis 12 for constipation).
Resources Mentioned
- Anu’s Book: Flourish From Within: Feed Your Gut for Lifelong Health (Pre-order here)
- Follow Anu: Instagram | Website
Listener Action Steps
- Add chia seeds to oatmeal, snack on roasted chickpeas, or blend veggies into smoothies.
- Finish meals by 6-7 PM to align with circadian rhythms (gut microbes need rest too!).
- Toss ultra-processed snacks. Stock almonds, hummus, and fermented foods (kimchi, sauerkraut).
- Aim for 7-8 hours with a consistent bedtime routine.
Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?
This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!
Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.
Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.
Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.
Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!
Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!
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