Londoners concerned about rising chronic illnesses and declining metabolic health are set to hear from two leading voices in food and nutrition at a special live event later this month. On Thursday 30th July, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, LEON founder and CEO John Vincent will host NHS consultant gastroenterologist and bestselling author Dr Alan Desmond for an exclusive live podcast recording at LEON HQ on Copperfield Street in London. The pair will examine how the UK can opt out of a food system they describe as toxic.
With chronic illnesses rising and metabolic health declining globally, the event addresses growing public questions about the true content of everyday food. Recent data indicate that poor metabolic health now affects more than one billion people worldwide, with the modern ultra-processed food system widely blamed for reshaping human biology.
A no-nonsense approach to nutrition
The evening offers an antidote to confusing dietary fads. Mr Vincent, who revolutionised the high street by launching LEON with a lifelong commitment to providing naturally fast food, has long campaigned for well-being for all. Known for his drive to ensure the public receives no-nonsense, accessible information about nutrition, his philosophy aligns seamlessly with the evening’s core theme. His work with LEON has consistently emphasised seasonal ingredients, fresh herbs, and spices, aiming to make nutritious options convenient and appealing. The event comes as LEON continues its turnaround under Mr Vincent’s leadership. The chain, which he bought back from Asda, has undergone restructuring to refocus on its original mission of healthy, flavourful fast food.
Dr Desmond, a full-time NHS consultant gastroenterologist who trained in Cork, Dublin, and Oxford, will join him. He has amassed more than 180,000 followers on Instagram for his evidence-based advice. He will share insights from his highly anticipated new book, What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You About Food, which is rooted in science and has been widely praised by scientists, medical professionals, and well-being experts. Dr Desmond’s clinical experience as a gastroenterologist underscores the role of gut health in overall well-being, including immunity, mood, and inflammation.
Reclaiming control of your health
The conversation will focus on simple, everyday habits that can make a major difference to longevity and vitality, rather than promoting restrictive regimes. Key topics will explore the hidden impact of ultra-processed foods, which experts say contribute significantly to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions. The speakers will also cover the importance of fibre, which Dr Desmond says is the nutrient most people do not consume enough of, alongside what the scientific consensus says about meat, dairy, and protein.
“This is not a diet book,” Dr Desmond says of his new release. “It’s a clear, evidence-based roadmap for living longer, feeling better, and reclaiming control of your health.”
Following the live podcast recording, the floor will open to the audience for a live Q&A session, followed by an opportunity to meet Dr Desmond and have copies of the book signed.
This collaboration between a pioneering restaurateur and a leading NHS clinician represents a timely effort to bridge accessible food options with robust medical science. The event aligns with growing public interest in evidence-based nutrition advice amid widespread confusion caused by conflicting dietary messages, promising practical, science-backed strategies for people seeking to improve their daily eating habits without resorting to extremes.
Event details
- Where: LEON HQ, Copperfield Street, London SE1
- When: Thursday 30th July, 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm
- Admission: Tickets are free, but space is strictly limited. Advance booking is essential.