https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/killercells My guest on today's podcast, Jonathan Clinthorne, PhD, has an intimate knowledge regarding the role that diet plays in immune function. Although it flies under the radar in nutrition science, the idea that certain nutrients can interact with the function of a type of cell known as a natural killer (NK) cell is very unique, an enchanting concept and certainly cutting edge, especially when you consider the role of mTOR activators such as leucine, and mTOR suppressors such as calorie restriction and intermittent fasting on NK cell maturation and function. Dr. Clinthorne is an ultra-endurance athlete who was awarded his PhD in Human Nutrition from Michigan State University. He has served on numerous medical advisory boards and has been an author or coauthor on a number of research papers covering topics such as aging, caloric restriction, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, immune function, inflammation and human nutrition. When not working as the Manager of Scientific Affairs and Nutrition Education at Natural Grocers, you can find Jonathan running, climbing or skiing in the mountains of Colorado. Jonathan happens to have an expert working knowledge of exactly to manipulate NK cell function on a daily basis to provide yourself with the most appropriate immune response for the season or around times of intense competition such as a triathlon or marathon, and during our discussion, you'll discover: -How Jonathan discovered the intriguing link between NK cells and calorie restriction while studying human nutrition...[9:30] -Why an NK cell needs to be given a "license to kill", and how that can happen...[13:00] -What keeps NK cells from destroying your own tissue...[15:20] -How the active hexose correlated compound one can find in mushroom extracts are particularly effective for NK cell activation, and the type of mushroom that works best...[22:15] -The link between intermittent fasting, caloric restriction and NK cell protection against respiratory infections in athletes...[24:30] -Whether wine or resveratrol can activate NK cell function, and why they need to be limited to ensure the hormetic response to exercise isn't blunted...[28:50] -How curcumin can be used correctly to lower the risk of flues and respiratory tract infections...[31:35] -The fascinating concept of how the bacteria in your lungs take cues from the bacteria in your gut...[34:30] -Why you should avoid folic acid and folate on the label of a multivitamin...[40:50] -And much more! Resources from this episode: - -Book: - (use "bengreenfield" for 15% off) - - - - - Show Sponsors: Earth Runners - Enjoy the benefits of going barefoot by using code BEN10 for 10% off at . Kimera Koffee - Go to and use code BEN to get 10% off! Four Sigmatic - Try out the Reishi Elixer for extreme relaxation without any grogginess. Use promo code BENGREENFIELD at  to get 15% off your order. HealthIQ - To learn more about life insurance for physically active people and get a free quote, go to . Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Jonathan or me? Leave your comments at  and one of us will reply!