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.
Raw Milk: Risks and Realities
Raw milk is being promoted as healthier by some influencers and even high-level officials. Here’s what raw milk really is, how it compares to pasteurized milk, the legal and safety issues, and why I say skip it.
Deconstructing Food Labels – Part 3: Tricky Front-of-the-Package Claims
Front-of-the-package claims can look helpful but often create confusion. Here’s what those tricky food label terms really mean, and why they may not always reflect a healthier choice.
Is Coconut Oil a Healthy Fat? Separating Fact from Fiction
Coconut oil is often promoted as a healthy fat with a range of benefits. This article breaks down the facts, explores its impact on cholesterol and heart health, and explains why moderation matters.
Dietary Guidelines Myths & Misinfo
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans are often misunderstood. Here’s the real story on myths like “they’re rules,” “they caused obesity,” and more.
Foods Don’t Always Nicely Fit Into the Food Groups
Ever wonder what food group mushrooms, olives, or oat milk belong to? Some foods just don’t fit the traditional categories. Here’s why that’s normal and why your overall eating patterns matter more than labels.
Food Fear: Why Demonizing Food Does More Harm Than Good?
Food fear is real, but the truth is that no single food is to blame for diabetes, cancer, or heart disease. What matters most is your long-term eating pattern, lifestyle, and family history.
The Truth About Diet Trends
Diets have been around for more than a century. From the grapefruit diet to keto to Mediterranean eating, here’s the truth about what works, what doesn’t, and how to focus on lasting health instead of the latest fad.
The Truth About Superfoods: Hype or Help?
Superfoods are trendy, but they are not magic. Here’s what “super” really means and how everyday foods can be just as powerful for your health.
The Health Halo: Just Because It Sounds Healthy Doesn’t Mean It Is
Organic candy. Cane sugar soda. Plant-based burgers. These might sound healthier, but are they really? Here’s what the health halo effect looks like in the real world—and how to see through it.
Are Energy Drinks Safe?
What’s really in your energy drink? Here’s what to know about caffeine content, hidden stimulants, and how these drinks may affect your health.
Seed Oils & Omega-6: Clearing Up the Confusion
Are seed oils harmful? Let’s break down the science behind omega-6 fats, their role in our health, and why balance is key.
Eggs Are Good for You: Why They Still Get a Bad Rap (and Why That Needs to Stop)
Still skipping eggs because of cholesterol fears? It’s time to crack the myth. Here’s what the science says now and why eggs deserve a place on your plate.
How Much Protein Do You Really Need?
Do you really need more protein? Find out how much is enough, who needs more, and how to meet your needs without overthinking—or overdoing it.
Stop Judging Food Choices: Why It’s Time to Ditch the Food Shame
Think eating peanut butter makes you “bad”? Think again. This blog tackles food judgment, nutrition myths, and why it’s time to stop shaming what’s on your plate or anyone else’s.
Protein – Plant vs. Animal Sources: What You Need to Know
Think meat is the only way to get enough protein? Think again. Discover how plant and animal foods both contribute to your daily protein needs — no extremes required.
Eggs Are Not Dairy: Clearing Up the Confusion (Again)
Just in time for Easter, let’s revisit one of the biggest food mix-ups: eggs are not dairy. Here’s what makes a food dairy, where eggs really belong, and why it matters.
The New Definition of Healthy Foods: Everything You Knew Was Wrong
Healthy food is being redefined! Say goodbye to nutrients and hello to organic brownies, color-free candy, and ingredient fear mongering. A completely serious (not really) guide to the new nutrition rules.
The Myth of 21 Days: How Long Does It Really Take to Build a Habit?
You’ve heard that it takes 21 days to form a habit—but is that really true? Science says otherwise. Learn why some habits take weeks while others take months and how to build long-lasting, healthy habits.
Diets Through the Decades: What Have We Learned?
Diets have changed dramatically over the decades, but one thing remains the same—people are always looking for the magic solution to weight loss. Take a historical look at diet trends from the 1950s to today and find out why some stick around while others fade.
The Benefits of Omega-3s and Where to Find Them
Omega-3 fatty acids are often linked to heart and brain health, but why? Discover their essential role in the body, top food sources, and simple ways to include them in your diet—even without eating seafood daily.