What is the secret to living a long and healthy life? How can science, technology, and personal choices help shape a future where everyone enjoys better health for longer? These questions are at the heart of the new podcast series “(De)F√ormule,” created by Universiteit van Nederland in collaboration with the Institute 4 Preventive Health.
This series provides an engaging and accessible exploration of health research. EWUU alliance researchers Roel Vermeulen (UU/UMCU), Ellen Kampman (WUR), Kirsten Verkooijen (WUR), and Masi Mohammadi (TU/e) share their insights on optimising life for better health and longevity.
The second and third episodes focus on WUR researchers Ellen Kampman and Kirsten Verkooijen, who delve into the critical roles of nutrition and lifestyle in shaping health outcomes.
(De)F√ormule: Can You Eat Your Way to Better Health? – Ellen Kampman (WUR)
In the second episode, nutrition expert Ellen Kampman discusses the impact of diet and physical activity on our health, with a particular focus on cancer. She highlights that healthier eating and more active lifestyles could prevent around 30% of common cancers, including bowel and breast cancer. While tools like the “Wheel of Five” provide valuable guidance, Ellen stresses that healthy living isn’t a guarantee against cancer.
Beyond prevention, Ellen also examines how nutrition can aid recovery and treatment. For example, consuming fibre-rich foods before surgery can reduce complications. However, she warns against the risks of over-reliance on certain substances, such as supplements, which can sometimes do more harm than good. She calls for greater attention to preventive healthcare, especially given the high prevalence of chronic conditions in the Netherlands, and raises critical concerns about proposed cuts to preventive health funding.
(De)F√ormule: How Teenage Choices Shape Your Future Health – Kirsten Verkooijen (WUR)
In the third episode, Kirsten Verkooijen explores how teenagers in practical education can be supported in making healthier lifestyle choices. She examines the link between unhealthy behaviours, such as binge drinking and inactivity, and environmental factors. Kirsten also investigates how technology, like games, can motivate young people to adopt healthier habits.
Teenagers in practical education live an average of six years less and experience health problems 15 years earlier than their academically educated peers. Kirsten highlights that these young people often grow up in challenging circumstances, limiting their opportunities for a healthy future. Her research focuses on co-creating tools with these teenagers—such as games and interactive technology—that make healthy choices more appealing and accessible.
Bridging Science and Practice
The “(De)F√ormule” podcast aligns seamlessly with the mission of the Institute 4 Preventive Health, which envisions a society where preventive health takes centre stage. By connecting scientific research with real-world applications, the institute develops innovative solutions to promote health and address societal challenges. Through this podcast, the institute brings its mission to life in an engaging and relatable way.
Want to hear more? The episodes are free to stream on the Universiteit van Nederland website and on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Be inspired by the stories of these researchers and discover how you can contribute to your own formula for a healthier life.