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.
Sweet Potatoes and Pomegranates: Seasonal Favorites
Sweet potatoes and pomegranates deserve more than a holiday appearance on your table. Here’s what makes these foods nutritional powerhouses, how to enjoy them, and a few ways to bring them to your table.
Social Determinants of Health and the Reality Behind SNAP
SNAP benefits are more than just “food stamps.” Understanding the social determinants of health helps explain why access, affordability, and compassion matter more than judgment.
Chicken Labels: What You Need to Know
Many chicken labels sound good but don’t mean much. Here’s what “no hormones,” “free-range,” and “natural” really mean, and how to spot the ones that actually matter.
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.
Dietary Supplements and Affiliate Links
The supplement industry is like the wild west. Learn what DSHEA really means, why skepticism is essential, and how to spot misinformation in social media health claims.
What’s Up With Eggs? What the Labels Really Mean
Eggs have been both praised and criticized over the years. Here’s what we know about their nutrition, cholesterol, and those tricky carton labels.
Beef Tallow, Seed Oils & Why It Won’t Change Anything
Fat is back in the spotlight. From influencers to the HHS Secretary, seed oils are being declared “toxic” and beef tallow is being promoted as the answer. But what does science say? We’ll break down seed oils vs beef tallow, compare fat profiles of popular oils/fats, and explain why changing the oil alone won’t move the needle in your health.
NOVA Classification and Ultra-Processed Foods: What “Processed” Really Means
We often hear “eat less processed foods” — but what does that actually mean? The NOVA classification provides a clearer way to look at food processing. In this post, I go over each category with examples, point out where things can be misleading, and offer simple steps to shift toward less-processed eating without guilt.
What Foods Are GMO? Not as Many as You Think
You’ve seen “GMO” or “BE” on food labels, but what does it really mean? Here’s the truth about which foods are actually genetically modified—and why it’s a much shorter list than you might think.
Seafood and Sustainability: What You Should Know
In the final installment of this National Seafood Month series, the focus shifts to seafood and sustainability. Here’s what you should know about making eco-friendly and nutritious seafood choices.
Seafood Myths: Mercury, Fresh vs. Frozen, and Farmed vs. Wild Caught
Is seafood safe? In Part 2 of my National Seafood Month series, I’m tackling three big myths: mercury, fresh versus frozen fish, and farmed versus wild caught seafood.
Deconstructing Food Labels – Part 4: Non-GMO Terms
Not all “non-GMO” claims mean what you think. Here’s how to spot marketing hype and understand which foods are actually genetically modified.
Seafood 101: What Counts as Seafood?
Seafood isn’t just fish. In this first part of my National Seafood Month series, I break down the main categories of seafood and what you should know about them.
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.
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.
Pumpkin Beyond Pie: Nutrition and Uses in Everyday Meals
Pumpkin is more than just pie or a seasonal flavor. Learn about its nutrition, how to buy, prepare, and cook pumpkin, plus the benefits of pumpkin seeds and ideas for everyday meals.
Nut Nutrition: More Than Just a Snack
Nuts are more than just a crunchy snack. From heart health to protein and fiber, here’s what you should know about different types of nuts, serving sizes, and common pitfalls.
Deconstructing Food Labels – Part 2: Optional (and Regulated Information)
Not everything you see on a food label is required. Some optional claims are regulated, while others are more about marketing. Here’s what you should know.
Vegetarian Nutrition Through the Lifespan
A vegetarian diet can work for all ages, but nutrition needs change over time. Here’s what to know for children, teens, pregnancy, and older adulthood.
Vegetarian Myths: Is It Automatically Healthier?
Many people believe vegetarian diets are automatically healthier. Here’s the truth about that myth, plus what matters most for balanced nutrition.