Is MSG making us fat and sick with Dr. Katherine Reid

40+ Fitness Podcast

On episode 701 of the 40+ Fitness podcast, Coach Allan sits down with Dr. Katherine Reid, a biochemist, founder of Unblind My Mind, and author Fat, Stressed and Sick: MSG, Processed Food and America's Health Crisis.

Together, they dive deep into a topic that affects millions but is often misunderstood: the hidden impact of MSG and processed foods on our health.

Dr. Reid shares her personal journey from struggling to help her daughter's autism diagnosis, to uncovering the pervasive presence of glutamate in our food supply—and how it’s fueling America's obesity and chronic disease crisis.

With her unique perspective as both a scientist and a mom, she exposes the science behind MSG, the tactics of the food industry, and how excess free glutamate is wreaking havoc on our metabolic health, mental well-being, and even our addictive behaviors.

Coach Allan and Dr. Reid break down the science in a way that’s easy to understand, offering practical steps and empowering advice, including Dr. Reid’s own REID Diet principles for reducing inflammatory and excitatory foods.

Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, clear the brain fog, or simply age better, this episode will change the way you look at the food you eat—and help you take back control of your health. Time Stamps:

03:27 American Health Crisis Book Analysis

06:47 Suffering Sparks Awareness and Change

13:37 Glutamate Debate: Safety vs. Blockers

18:00 Glutamate's Role in Metabolic Imbalance

22:16 Overstimulated Taste Receptors Harm Health

24:11 Glutamine's Role in Gut Health

26:35 Debunking Glutamate Blood Barrier Myth

30:06 Glutamate: Addiction's Hidden Neural Trigger

33:51 Glutamate's Role in Insulin Resistance

38:28 Reducing Inflammation Through Lifestyle Choices

42:24 Appreciation for Passionate Farmers

43:46 Motivating Health Through Community Cooking

47:39 Improved Quality of Life Benefits