This year’s Royal Institution Christmas Lectures, hosted by Dr. Chris van Tulleken, tackle a topic both universal and slightly squeamish: the digestive system. Get ready for a journey from taste buds to toilet, complete with unusual Christmas foods, endoscopic explorations, and, yes, even a discussion of the perfect poo.
Dr. van Tulleken will be guiding viewers through the entire digestive process, from the first bite to the, well, final product. He’ll be joined by special guest Prue Leith, who will be lending her expertise to the science of taste. Expect some unconventional Christmas food choices; this isn’t your grandma’s fruitcake. For those who prefer a more internal perspective, Dr. van Tulleken’s twin brother, Dr. Xand van Tulleken, will be providing an endoscopic view of the digestive system in action.
The lecture won’t shy away from the less glamorous aspects of digestion. Expect experiments on eating upside down, explorations of stomach capacity, and even a deep dive into the components of a healthy bowel movement. Nothing is off limits in this hilariously educational exploration of the human body. And for those wondering about the origins of disgust, Dr. van Tulleken’s daughter, Indigo, will be on hand to help determine whether it’s nature or nurture that makes us squirm.
This year marks the 199th installment of the Christmas Lectures, a series started by Michael Faraday in 1825. It’s a tradition that continues to spark curiosity and inspire a love of science in audiences of all ages. So, if you’re looking for a holiday viewing experience that’s both entertaining and informative, tune in to “From Taste Buds to Toilet” this Sunday. Just maybe don’t watch it while you’re eating.
“Royal Institution Christmas Lectures: From Taste Buds to Toilet” airs Sunday, December 29, at 9:00 PM on BBC Four.
