Real World Nutrition News You Can Use

There is a lot of misinformation about nutrition. And nothing in this field is black-or-white, yes-or-no, but many shades of gray and a lot of “it depends.” So, my goal is to help clear up some of that misinformation with some snark, entertainment, and facts (with some opinion thrown in). 

Many of these topics come from interactions with the public, friends, clients, and students. I see sheer misinformation about the science of nutrition, and I do my best to clear things up one blog post at a time. 

If you have a topic you are wondering about, let me know

Looking for a specific topic? Search to see if it is already here.


Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Protein: Still a Nutrient and a Food Group

Someone recently “corrected” me on social media: “Protein isn’t a food group.” Spoiler: It is. Let’s break down what protein really is—and why it’s both a nutrient and a food group.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Is It Healthy or Just Hyped? Decoding Popular Diet Labels

From “clean eating” to “net carbs” and “superfoods,” diet labels are everywhere. But do they mean what we think they do? Let’s break down these common terms, separate fact from fiction, and help you make confident choices about your nutrition.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

The Role of Protein in Fitness Recovery

Protein is essential for everyone, not just athletes. Learn how it supports fitness recovery, what foods provide it, and when supplements might be helpful for you.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Gut Health 101: How to Keep Your Digestive System Happy

Maintaining a healthy gut goes beyond just what we eat—it’s about managing lifestyle factors, too. Discover the signs of an unhealthy gut, foods that help or harm your digestion, and tips for keeping your gut balanced.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

What is Clean Eating?

“Clean eating” is a popular but often misunderstood term. Find out what it means, if it’s healthier, and whether this restrictive approach to food is necessary.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Fitting in Your Fruits and Veggies

Struggling to fit in your daily fruits and veggies? This post offers practical tips to help you meet your recommended intake while debunking common myths. From breakfast to dinner, learn how to incorporate more plant-based foods into your routine and enjoy their health benefits.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Celebrating Independence from Food Rules

Celebrate this 4th of July by breaking free from arbitrary food rules. Discover why it's time to let go of restrictions like "only shop the perimeter" and "no eating after 7 PM" and embrace a balanced, enjoyable approach to eating.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Fats and Oils: Understanding Healthy Fats

Uncover the importance of dietary fats in maintaining health. Learn about different types of fats, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your diet for balanced nutrition.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Dairy: Essential for Bone Health and More

Discover the vital role of dairy in bone health and overall wellness. Learn about dairy products, their nutritional benefits, and how to include them in your diet.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Protein Foods: Building Blocks of the Body

Explore the importance of protein in your diet. Learn about different protein sources, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your meals for balanced nutrition.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Grains: The Energy Providers

Discover the essential role of grains in a balanced diet. Learn about the types of grains, their nutritional benefits, and practical tips for incorporating them into your meals for optimal health and energy.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Vegetables: Nutrient Powerhouses

Discover the essential health benefits of vegetables, from vitamins and minerals to fiber and antioxidants. Learn about different types of vegetables and practical tips for incorporating them into your daily meals.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Fruits: Nature’s Sweet Treats

Explore the health benefits of fruits, from vitamins and minerals to antioxidants. Learn how to incorporate fresh, frozen, canned, and dried fruits into your diet for a delicious and nutritious boost.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Introduction to Food Groups and Balanced Nutrition

Discover the importance of balanced nutrition and explore the various food groups. Learn how to incorporate fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, dairy, and healthy fats into your diet for optimal health and well-being.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Is Fresh Really the Best?

Discover the benefits of fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables. Learn how each option fits into a healthy diet and find tips for maximizing nutrition, no matter your choice.

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