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

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

Do You Eat Asparagus?

Do you eat asparagus?

What is the big deal with asparagus?

Why should we eat it?

And what about that “smell” that comes along the next day that reminds you that you had asparagus yesterday?

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

You Can Eat What You Want

What do you think when I say you can EAT WHAT YOU WANT?

Some people have some automatic and negative thoughts about this.

Regarding food and our behaviors around food, we need to stop thinking in black and white.

Here is a fact: one food, one meal, or even one day of eating will not turn our health for the better or, the worse. But the consistency of that food, meal, or day over and over.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Eggs are Not Dairy

Eggs are Not Dairy

While stating eggs are not dairy may be evident to some people, more and more, there needs to be more clarity about eggs and what food group to which they belong.

Over the past ten years or so, I have seen and heard more and more that people are categorizing eggs in the dairy group.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

What Do You Really Know About Vitamin C?

Despite the popularity, is there a good reason to take vitamin C supplements? Many people will swear it helps prevent or cure a cold, boost immune function, or that they need it because of gaps in the diet, but is that true? Probably not.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Healthier Fast Food – Is it possible?

Is fast-food “healthy”? Not really. But you may find yourself at a fast food place wondering if there are healthier options. If you go more than “once in a while” you may want to consider how you make healthier choices and help your overall health in the process. And not avoiding them completely. Because sometimes you can’t.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Are Olives a Healthy Food?

People often talk about olive oil and the massive health benefits of this oil when consumed as part of a healthy diet. But we rarely hear about the olives themselves. Are olives also as healthy as the oil? Yes, and no.

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