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

What Does Vegetarian Really Mean?

Vegetarianism is more than skipping meat. Here’s what it really means, how plant-based fits in, and the different ways people follow a vegetarian diet.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Is It Really Your Genes?

Genes matter, but they are not the full story. While family history contributes to disease risk, lifestyle choices have a much larger impact. Here’s why your daily habits matter more than your DNA.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Rising Obesity Rates and Sedentary Lifestyles

Obesity rates in the U.S. have climbed from 15% in 1980 to over 42% today. Food plays a role, but it is not the only factor. Technology, lifestyle shifts, and cultural changes have influenced the way we move, eat, and live.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Fat Facts: Why We Need It and Why Type Matters

Fat often gets labeled as unhealthy, but it’s essential for health. Discover the role of fat in the body, the different types, and what happens with too little or too much.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Changes Happen All the Time

Change is everywhere—fashion, technology, social norms, even medicine. So why do people resist nutrition recommendations when they evolve too?

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

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.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Vitamin B?

“Vitamin B” isn’t just one vitamin but eight. Do you really need a supplement, or are you already getting enough from food? Here’s what to know.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Don’t Blame the Rice

Rice often gets demonized as “bad carbs.” The truth? Rice is not the enemy. Here’s what you need to know about its nutrition, resistant starch, and role in a balanced diet.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Do You Need to Cut Out Sugar? What to Know First

Before cutting sugar completely, it helps to understand the difference between added and natural sugars, what moderation means, and what the science actually says about sugar and health.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Is Snacking Healthy or Harmful?

Snacking has a reputation for being either the hero or the villain in a healthy eating plan. The truth is, it can be both. Here’s how to know when snacks work for you and when they don’t.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN Shelley Rael, MS RDN

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.

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