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 10/21/25 Shelley Rael 10/21/25

Oatmeal for More Than Breakfast: Creative and Nutritious Ways to Enjoy It

Oatmeal is versatile, nutritious, and easy to prepare. From heart health to creative mix-ins and savory recipes, here’s how to enjoy oats all day.

Shelley Rael 10/18/25 Shelley Rael 10/18/25

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.

Shelley Rael 9/25/25 Shelley Rael 9/25/25

Whole Grains: Why They Matter and How to Eat More of Them

Whole grains are linked to better health, but food labels can make things tricky. Here’s how to cut through the confusion and choose whole grains that actually benefit your health.

Shelley Rael 6/3/25 Shelley Rael 6/3/25

What Defines a Healthy Food? The FDA’s Updated Criteria Explained

The FDA has redefined “healthy” food labeling to align with modern nutrition science. What does this mean for your food choices?

Shelley Rael 9/14/24 Shelley Rael 9/14/24

Adding Nutrient-Rich Foods to Your Diet: A Fresh Start for Fall

As fall begins, focus on adding nutrient-dense foods like seasonal fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, and omega-3-rich options to boost your nutrition. Learn simple ways to incorporate these into your meals for lasting health benefits.

Shelley Rael 6/13/24 Shelley Rael 6/13/24

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.

Shelley Rael 6/4/24 Shelley Rael 6/4/24

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.