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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Do You Need IV Therapy?
IV therapy is becoming more popular for hydration and wellness. But is it necessary? This blog breaks down the claims, costs, and what actually works.
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.
Can You Calculate Exactly What Your Body Needs? (And Why It’s Not That Simple)
Can you calculate exactly how many nutrients your body needs? Nutrition equations provide estimates, but real life is far more complex. Learn why flexibility matters when it comes to eating.
“Detoxing” From Sugar and the Idea of Sugar Addiction
Sugar detoxes and sugar addiction claims are everywhere. This post breaks down what addiction really means, what science says, and why restriction often backfires.
Nutrition, Experience, and the Real World: Why the Basics Still Matter
After more than 25 years as an RDN, I am still teaching the basics. Here is why foundational nutrition education matters now more than ever.
Hangover Myths vs Facts: What Actually Helps
From honey shots to hair of the dog, hangover cures are everywhere. This article breaks down the science behind hangovers and separates myth from fact without judgment.
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.