#333: The Importance of Resistance Training with Dr. Daphne Bascom
“My best competition performance actually came after I became plant-based. So the myth that you can't gain muscle, be competitive in this sport as a plant-based athlete we all see lots of examples knowing that that's not the case. But as I transitioned myself, I was a little nervous about …am I going to lose all my muscle? and instead it was just easier for me to maintain my physique and because my recovery was so much better, I could train so much harder.” –Dr. Daphne Bascom
In this episode of I AM HUMAN, I interview Dr. Daphne Bascom about her journey to plant-based nutrition and fitness. We talk about her career changes, her passion for empowering others, and her suggestions for those new to resistance training. We also discuss menopause and what she wants to make sure women know about this life transition.
Inspired by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and the eye-opening documentary "The Game Changers," Dr. Bascom reveals how this lifestyle change alleviated her autoimmune symptoms and enhanced her workout recovery, while also shedding light on the frustrating gap in nutrition education for medical professionals. Dr. Bascom underscores the critical importance of fitness and resistance training, especially for women as they age, and shares her invaluable insights on maintaining physical health across various life stages. In our discussion, we tackle common misconceptions about women and weightlifting, stressing the importance of progressive overload for muscle growth. With practical advice on incorporating resistance training and navigating menopause with a positive outlook, this episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being. Don't miss the launch of the Vegan Gym's Menopause Mastery Program, a 12-week journey designed to help women thrive in this new stage of life.
Dr. Daphne Bascom MD, PhD, is a health coach and Chief Operating Officer at The Vegan Gym, where she integrates her expertise in plant-based nutrition into comprehensive wellness strategies. Her career began with advanced studies in respiratory physiology at Oxford under Professor Peter Robbins. She later specialized in microvascular and reconstructive surgery and held significant roles at Cleveland Clinic and Cerner Corporation. Now at St. Luke’s Health System, Dr. Bascom focuses on innovative population health approaches. Her work with The Vegan Gym underscores her commitment to promoting plant-based diets for holistic health and well-being.
Discussion points:
(00:00) Dr. Daphne Bascom’s intro
(04:50) Shocking lack of plant-based nutrition knowledge in healthcare
(07:45) Starting IFBB and fitness training later in life
(12:00) The tough process of training, career Transitions and Personal Growth
(14:15) Medical career transitions, Otolaryngology, head and neck reconstructive surgery for cancer patients, working in healthcare technology
(20:20) Developing a passion for fitness as a teen, refocusing in middle age
(22:00) Benefits of resistance training for women
(27:30) Importance of progressive overload in fitness, after age 30 particularly
(30:45) Navigating menopause, perimenopause and post-menopause bring challenges and changes, including emotional and physical symptoms, need for health management, and reframing mindset as a new beginning
(39:00) Trouble with, and developing, a growth mindset
(44:00) Where to start - functional movement resources and opportunities
(48:26) Closing questions, what we wish people knew
Did you LOVE this special episode of I AM HUMAN? PLEASE share it with someone who you think could benefit from this information!
Looking for Ad-Free listening? Subscribe today!
Dr. Daphne Bascom
Health coach and Chief Operating Officer with The Vegan Gym
Dr. Daphne Bascom MD, PhD, is a health coach and Chief Operating Officer at The Vegan Gym, where she integrates her expertise in plant-based nutrition into comprehensive wellness strategies. Her career began with advanced studies in respiratory physiology at Oxford under Professor Peter Robbins. She later specialized in microvascular and reconstructive surgery and held significant roles at Cleveland Clinic and Cerner Corporation. Now at St. Luke’s Health System, Dr. Bascom focuses on innovative population health approaches. Her work with The Vegan Gym underscores her commitment to promoting plant-based diets for holistic health and well-being.
The information on this blog, website and podcast is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your or your child’s eating, nutrition or growth, consult a doctor.