Welcome everyone to another edition of the Doctor’s Note where we talk about what’s on our minds when it comes to your health.
In this week’s podcast episode, we get into the world of regenerative farming and its profound impact on your health. I was excited to get the opportunity to talk with Dr. Nate Wells (founder/co-owner) and Jake Hubbard (co-owner) of Brookhaven Farms, about how sustainable farming practices can rejuvenate both our soil and our bodies.
In this episode, we explore the critical role of mitochondria and soil microbiology in our well-being. We also spotlight Brookhaven Farms’ innovative grocery bag packed with nutrient-rich, ethically sourced foods designed to nourish families. Dr. Wells shares exciting developments in freeze-dried supplements from grass-fed beef organs, offering a natural multivitamin to reduce processed foods in our diets. We get into the benefits of raw milk, the advantages of grass-fed/grass-finished livestock, and why enriched soil microbiology matters.
If you’re wanting to understand how traditional farming methods can revolutionize your health, this episode is a must listen!
PODCAST NOTES
Mitochondria and Microbiology in Health: We began by exploring the essential roles of mitochondria and soil microbiology in overall health. It’s crucial to understand that the health of our soil directly impacts the quality of the food we consume. Nutritive grass and enriched soil microbiology not only promote robust plant health, but also transfer these benefits to the livestock, ultimately enhancing human health.
Brookhaven Farms Grocery Bag: Jake introduced us to the thoughtfully curated grocery bag from Brookhaven Farms. For $150, this bag includes a gallon of raw milk, two pounds each of chicken breast and leg quarters, four pounds of sausage, four pounds of grass-fed beef, a pack of traditionally cured bacon, and a dozen eggs. This offering is designed to provide families with nutrient-dense, ethically produced food and serves as a cost-effective alternative to the often nutrient-poor processed foods found in conventional grocery stores.
Regenerative Farming Practices: We talked about the enormous potential of regenerative farming practices. By focusing on soil health and leveraging the natural benefits of grass, these practices eliminate the need for artificial pesticides and antibiotics. Healthier livestock means healthier meat, which translates directly into better health outcomes for consumers.
Ethical and Sustainable Products: Both Jake and Dr. Wells stressed the importance of the nose-to-tail philosophy, an ethical farming practice that minimizes waste and honors the full value of each animal. This philosophy fosters a deeper respect for the animals and promotes the use of traditional products like butter, lard, and ghee - products that our ancestors thrived on.
Freeze-Dried Supplements: Dr. Wells spoke passionately about his latest venture with his son - developing freeze-dried supplements from grass-fed beef organs like liver, heart, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. These supplements, termed “nature’s multivitamin”, offer a potent and convenient nutritional boost and reflect their commitment to providing high quality, nutrient dense foods.
Genetics and Feedlots: We discussed the critical role of livestock genetics in regenerative farming systems. Traditional feedlot breeds like Black Angus are bred for grain feeding and do not thrive on grass diets. Instead, breeds like South Pole cattle, which efficiently convert grass into high-quality products, are better suited for regenerative practices. This genetic optimization ensures the quality and health benefits of the meat produced.
Raw Milk Controversy: The conversation also touched on the ongoing debate around raw milk. Historically, raw milk was a staple, but modern society is often cautious due to past concerns that led to pasteurization. We highlighted the potential benefits of raw milk, including the A2 variant known for better lactose tolerance, and discussed the cultural and historical shifts affecting its perception.
Challenges in Meat Labeling: Lastly, Jake shed light on the pervasive issue of “greenwashing” in the beef industry. Terms like “grass-fed” can be misleading, as they don’t always mean the livestock were grass-fed throughout their lives. The distinction of “grass-fed/grass-finished” is crucial to ensure consumers are getting meat that has not been contaminated with grains. The health implications of consuming meat from grass-fed livestock, including toxic accumulation in fat, underscore the need for transparency and better labeling practices.
As we conclude our deep dive into the fascinating world of regenerative farming with insights from Brookhaven Farms, it’s clear that prioritizing nutrient-dense, ethically sourced food can revolutionize our health and our planet. The expertise shared by Dr. Nate Wells and Jake Hubbard emphasizes the critical role of sustainable practices in fostering robust ecosystems, healthier livestock, and ultimately a nourished community.
Whether it’s through the innovative “grocery bag” offerings or the pioneering developments of freeze-dried organ supplements, Brookhaven Farms exemplifies the future of food production that respects both nature and consumers.
I’m super excited about Brookhaven Farms offering to DELIVER grocery bag orders to any of our PM offices. This means YOU can place your order online at brookhavenfarms.net and pick it up at any Performance Medicine (minimum 35 bag orders for Knoxville delivery). How awesome is that?
Let’s take advantage of this opportunity to eat clean! A huge thanks to Dr. Nate Wells and Jake Hubbard for their unwavering commitment and vision for a healthier world!
Stay educated. Stay healthy.
Till next week.
