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.
Life Expectancy vs. Lifespan: They're Not the Same Thing
How long could you live? How long will you actually live? And how many of those years will you spend in good health? Life expectancy, lifespan, and healthy life expectancy answer different questions.
Embracing Self-Care: What It Really Means and Why It Matters
Self-care is more than treating yourself or finding time for a spa day. Learn what self-care really means, why it matters, and how to make it a realistic part of everyday life.
Antioxidants and Phytochemicals: What They Are and Why They Matter
Antioxidants and phytochemicals aren't just ingredients in supplements. They're naturally occurring components of many foods. Here's what they are, where to find them, and why food variety matters more than chasing individual nutrients.
How Many Meals Should You Eat Each Day? Three Meals, Six Meals, or One?
Three meals? Six small meals? One large meal? Here's what the research says about meal frequency, metabolism, intermittent fasting, and finding an eating pattern that works for you.
Digital Detox: Finding a Healthier Balance with Technology
Technology is part of everyday life, but constant connectivity can take a toll on our health. Learn practical ways to create healthier digital habits while staying connected to what matters most.
Wheat Allergy vs. Gluten Intolerance vs. Celiac Disease: What's the Difference?
Wheat allergy, gluten intolerance, and celiac disease all involve reactions to foods containing wheat, but they are very different conditions. Learn what sets them apart and why understanding the difference matters.
Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance: What's the Difference?
Have you ever wondered whether a reaction to food is an allergy or an intolerance? Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they have different causes, symptoms, and health implications. Here's what you need to know.
Lactose Intolerance vs. Dairy Allergy: Why They Are Not the Same Thing
Lactose intolerance and dairy allergy are often confused, but they are two very different conditions. Learn what causes each one, the symptoms to watch for, and why understanding the difference matters.
Healthy Fats: Why Avocados Aren’t the Only Good Source
Healthy fats go far beyond avocados. Learn how saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and trans fats differ, where they're found, and why shifting the balance toward unsaturated fats matters more than avoiding fat.
Why Variety Matters More Than Trying to Eat the “Ideal” Diet
No single food or food group provides everything your body needs. Learn why eating a variety of foods supports nutrition, enjoyment, flexibility, and an eating pattern you can actually maintain.
No Weight Loss? That Is Probably Okay
The scale isn't changing, but does that mean nothing is working? Learn why weight is only one measure of progress and what strength, energy, fitness, body composition, and other health changes can tell you.
Are Condiments Really the Problem? (Or Are We Missing the Bigger Picture?)
Are ketchup, mayo, BBQ sauce, and salad dressing really a problem? See how common condiments compare and why portions and your overall eating pattern matter more than dramatic nutrition claims.
What Does “Junk Food” Actually Mean?
What actually makes a food “junk”? Learn why labels like junk food, processed, and ultra-processed don't tell the whole story and why nutrient density and your overall eating pattern matter more.
Too Busy to Eat Healthy? Why Making Time Matters
Busy schedules don't have to keep you from eating well. Learn practical ways to make nutrition fit into real life with simple habits, meal planning, and nutritious convenience foods.
Are Fresh, Frozen, and Canned Fruits & Vegetables Really That Different?
Fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables all have advantages. Learn how they compare in nutrition, storage, shelf life, convenience, and cost to help you choose what works best for you.
Healthy Grilling: Tips Beyond Just Choosing Lean Meat
Healthy grilling is about more than choosing lean meat. Learn how to grill safely, reduce charring, use marinades, prepare fruits and vegetables, and build balanced meals.
How to Overcome the Five Biggest Obstacles to Healthy Living
Healthy living isn’t about having more time or more motivation. Learn practical ways to overcome five common obstacles and build habits that fit your life.
The Truth About Ice Cream: Can It Fit Into a Healthy Diet?
Can ice cream fit into a healthy diet? Learn how portions, satisfaction, food guilt, nutrition needs, and traditional versus alternative frozen desserts can help you decide what works for you.
What Makes a Snack Healthy? (It’s Probably Not What You’ve Been Told)
What makes a snack healthy? Learn when snacks can support hunger, nutrition, exercise, and weight loss goals, when they may be less helpful, and how to choose snacks that fit your needs.
The Single Best Thing You Can Do for Your Health
Everyone wants to know the one thing they should do to be healthier. The answer may surprise you. Learn why the best health advice depends on the individual and which habits benefit almost everyone.