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 6/20/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/20/26

Healthier Fast Food: Is It Possible?

Can fast food fit into a healthy eating pattern? Learn practical strategies for making more balanced choices when eating at fast food and quick-service restaurants.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/18/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/18/26

Does Dairy Deserve a Place in a Healthy Diet?

Is dairy healthy? Learn about dairy nutrition, lactose intolerance, dairy alternatives, A2 milk, common dairy myths, and how dairy can fit into a healthy eating pattern.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/16/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/16/26

When Diets Go Sideways: How Keto, Carnivore, and Other Trends Drift from Their Original Purpose

Many popular diets began with a specific purpose unrelated to weight loss. Learn how keto, elimination diets, Whole30, and carnivore evolved into modern diet trends.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/13/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/13/26

Five Weight Loss Myths Busted

Do you need to stop eating after 8 PM? Should everyone follow a 1,200-calorie diet? Learn the truth behind five common weight loss myths and what the evidence actually shows.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/11/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/11/26

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Why Eating More Produce Is Still Great Advice

Why do fruits and vegetables appear in nearly every healthy eating pattern? Learn the benefits of produce, common nutrition myths, and simple ways to eat more fruits and vegetables.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/6/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/6/26

Are Mushrooms a Vegetable? Plus the Benefits of Adding More Mushrooms to Your Meals

Are mushrooms vegetables? Technically, no. Learn how mushrooms are classified, explore their unique nutrition benefits, and discover easy ways to add more mushrooms to your meals.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/2/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 6/2/26

What Is a Diet, Really? Why We’ve Misunderstood the Word “Diet”

Most people think of diets as weight-loss plans, but that’s not what the word originally meant. Learn why everyone follows a diet, how the term became misunderstood, and why healthy eating is about long-term patterns rather than restrictive rules.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/30/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/30/26

Restaurant Menu Labeling: What Those Numbers Really Mean

Restaurant menus include calorie information, but how useful is it really? This blog explains what menu labeling means and how to interpret it.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/28/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/28/26

Summer Eating Without the “Start Over Monday” Mindset

Summer often brings vacations, celebrations, and social eating. This blog explores how to approach it without guilt or the “start over Monday” mindset.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/26/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/26/26

Building a Heart-Healthy Plate Without Overthinking It

Heart-healthy eating does not need to be expensive, bland, or complicated. Learn practical ways to build balanced meals that support long-term health.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/23/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/23/26

Superfoods, Functional Foods, and Nutraceuticals: Do They Really Matter?

Superfoods are often marketed as superior, but what does that actually mean? This blog explains the terms and why overall patterns matter more.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/21/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/21/26

Processed Meats: What They Are and What Actually Makes Them a Concern

Processed meats are often labeled as unhealthy, but what does that actually mean? This blog breaks down definitions, risks, and realistic intake.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/18/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/18/26

Red Meat and Health: How Much Is Too Much?

Red meat is one of the most debated foods in nutrition. This blog breaks down what it is, what the research says, and how much is reasonable.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/7/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 5/7/26

Healthy Eating vs. “Perfect” Eating: Why Consistency Matters More

Healthy eating is not about strict rules. This blog explores the difference between flexible habits and rigid patterns, including the impact on mental health.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/18/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/18/26

Five Foods Always in My Pantry

A look inside a dietitian’s pantry, highlighting five simple, versatile foods that support balanced meals, easy snacks, and everyday nutrition.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/9/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/9/26

What Happens to Food When You Freeze It?

Does freezing food change its nutrition? Here is what actually happens and how to freeze foods for the best quality.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/7/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/7/26

Soy Foods and Your Health: Benefits, Myths, and Who Should Eat Them

Soy often gets a mixed reputation. Here is what it actually is, what the research says, and how it can fit into everyday eating.

Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/4/26 Shelley Rael, MS RDN 4/4/26

Five Foods Always in My Fridge

Ever wonder what a dietitian actually keeps in their fridge? Here are five foods that are always stocked in mine and how I use them in everyday meals.