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

Embracing Vegetarianism: A Spectrum of Choices

Explore the world of vegetarianism on a flexible spectrum! Learn about the types of vegetarianism, health benefits, environmental impact, and practical tips for transitioning. Embrace the freedom of personalized plant-based choices.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Dairy Dilemma: Do You Need Dairy in Your Diet for Optimal Nutrition?

Do you need dairy in your diet? From milk to cheese, dairy has long been promoted as a vital part of a balanced eating plan. But is it essential? For as long as I have been a dietitian (and before), there has been controversy about dairy. Today I bring you nutrition benefits, considerations, and dairy alternatives.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Lactose Intolerance vs. Dairy Allergy

There is often confusion between a lactose intolerance, the naturally occurring sugar in milk (from any mammal, including humans), and a milk allergy.

These two diagnoses and conditions are not interchangeable.

Someone with a dairy allergy cannot have cheese, not even a small amount of parmesan cheese, as a topping on a salad.

However, someone with lactose intolerance most likely can have that without any consequences.

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