Caryn Zinn Dietitian

21/07/2025

Over the weekend, I had the privilege of speaking at the Osteoarthritis (OA) Aotearoa New Zealand Summit on weight management in OA.

My presentation was on the role of weight management and the emerging role of GLP-1 receptor agonists, specifically focusing on the science and clinical application of whole food, carbohydrate-reduction (i.e. low carb and ketogenic diets) particularly for their anti-inflammatory benefits.

While OA isn’t classically inflammatory like rheumatoid arthritis, low-grade inflammation is a key part of the disease process. What’s often overlooked is that excess body fat, particularly visceral fat, acts like an inflammatory organ, releasing adipokines that contribute to systemic metabolic and joint disease. Reducing this fat burden eases joint pain, supports movement, and improves quality of life.

The audience, physiotherapists, physicians, GPs, and people living with OA, were curious, open-minded, and genuinely engaged with the evidence supporting a metabolic health lens, even though it challenges mainstream nutrition guidance. The great energy and thoughtful discussion made it a refreshing experience, a real win for science, clinical care, and open dialogue.

Feeling grateful to the organising team for the opportunity to contribute to this important space.

17/07/2025

Do check out this interview with Dr Nina Teicholz, her work has been pivotal in what might just be a turning point in modern dietary history. The U.S. dietary guidelines are expected (hopefully!) to drop the long-standing limits on saturated fat. If that happens, it could spark a global ripple effect, shifting how national guidelines are framed and how we advise populations to eat.

This would also mean no more penalties for saturated fat in algorithms like our local Health Star Ratings or other food classification systems... the implications are huge. Removing these limits may also help dismantle some of the resistance to carbohydrate-reduction approaches. Despite favourable evidence for cardiovascular health, many still fear these diets might cause harm due to modest increases in saturated fat intake.

The evidence challenging saturated fat as a health villain has been building for years. Hopefully, this time it will finally be "seen" by those who’ve long ignored it.

Exciting times ahead; this could mark a real shift for the better, and a true endorsement of eating whole, unprocessed foods without the usual caveats like “as long as you remove the skin” or “cut off the fat from the meat”!

Science journalist Nina Teicholz discusses how a growing list of companies are implementing the MAHA policy on ‘America's Newsroom.'

16/07/2025

Fauja Singh: “The Turbaned Tornado”
The world’s oldest marathon runner, (114 years of age) who was still competing after turning 100 more than a decade ago, died in a hit-and-run this week. A totally unnecessary death, but a classic example of the “live long, drop dead” philosophy!

Just as an FYI, here are some of his lifestyle habits that may have contributed to his longevity:

Diet:
• Primarily vegetarian: simple, plant-based meals (curry, chapati, lentils, vegetables)
• Avoided fried foods and processed foods
• Ate modest portions and emphasised not overeating
Exercise
• Maintained daily walking and running habits well into his 100s
• Continued consistent, moderate physical activity for decades
Lifestyle and attitude
• Abstained from alcohol and smoking
• Practised positive thinking and strong sense of purpose
• Deeply connected to his faith (Sikh) and community
• Prioritised mental health, balance, and optimism
In his own words about his longevity: “I am happy. I am content. I do not have any greed. That is why I am at peace.”

A remarkable life that shows us how simplicity, purpose, and movement can sustain us for over a century. May we all find even a fraction of his inspiration and spirit. Rest in peace, Fauja Singh.