Dr. Maya Shetreat-Klein is a pediatric neurologist, herbalist, urban farmer, and author of The Dirt Cure: Growing Healthy Kids with Food Straight from Soil. On today’s podcast, Dr. Shetreat-Klein shares why spending time outdoors is critical and how the diverse organisms in soil can improve your health and impact the quality of your food. Dr. Shetreat-Klein discovered the importance of exposure to microbes in nature and eating nutrient-dense foods while helping her son recover from debilitating symptoms of asthma that stemmed from a severe food allergy. Find out why dirt is crucial for preventing illness and protecting your health!    Key takeaways: [:37] Dr. Maya Shetreat-Klein’s career briefing [2:43] What is The Dirt Cure? [3:07] Being exposed to the microbiome of the outdoors is important. [4:58] Kids that have grown up on farms have fewer allergies and less asthma due to their increased exposure to biodiverse organisms. [5:35] One teaspoon of soil has as many organisms as there are people on the entire planet.  [6.08] Psychobiotics are organisms that can impact our mood and our cognition. [7:30] What do you do when you live in the city? [8:03] Sharing a microbiome with your pets boosts your brain, immune, and gut health. [8:28] Visit nearby parks and seek out opportunities to spend time in nature. [9:45] The Earth is an unlimited source of electrons -- going bare feet and letting the flow of electrons enter your body helps neutralize harmful free radicals.  [10:28] Forest Bathing involves immersing yourself in the beauty of the forest and it’s been found to have numerous health benefits. [11:30] Dr. Shetreat-Klein began researching the impact of food on children’s health after her son experienced debilitating symptoms of asthma and other health issues due to a severe food allergy.   [13:40] The way we grow our food and treat our soil impacts the health of our food.  [14:15] Healthy fat from animals raised in pastures is rich in vitamin D and essential fatty acids. [15:37] Which sweeteners are best? Raw honey has antioxidant properties, but you still need to be mindful about the amount you eat. [18:14] Get bitter components in your diet to help stabilize insulin and blood sugar levels as well as your appetite. [18:58] Get a free guide with Dr. Shetreat-Klein’s favorite nutrient-dense recipes. [20:18] Learn how to lose fat fast, keep it off forever, and become part of a community at jjvirgin.com [20:58] Listener’s question: How do I know if I need probiotics? Your gut microbiome is critical for your overall health -- probiotics and prebiotics help balance your gut microbiome. [25:06] If you are on antibiotics, you should take two probiotics a day.   Mentioned in this episode: JJVirgin.com/dirtcure DrMaya.com JJVirgin.com Facebook — JJVirgin Official Instagram — JJVirgin Official   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices