Real World Nutrition Podcast
Move past the fads, gimmicks, trends, detoxing, cleanses, fasting, and other unrealistic ideas about eating in the real world. If you want to eat and enjoy food without being deprived because you live in the real world, join Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Shelley A. Rael as she sorts through the hype and gives real talk about eating healthier.
Launched October 2021 with new episodes weekly, each Friday.
Available on your favorite podcast app/platform, including Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, Google Podcasts, I Heart Radio, PodBean, Spotify, and Stitcher.
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When Science Meets Politics: What Happened to the Dietary Guidelines?
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans are based on scientific review, but the final recommendations do not always align with the Advisory Committee’s report.
In this episode, explore where and why those differences occur. From saturated fat language to alcohol guidance and cultural considerations, this discussion breaks down how science is translated into policy and what that means for public health messaging.
The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines: What They Got Right and Where They Fall Short
The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans influence far more than individual food choices. They shape nutrition policy, school meals, and public health messaging.
In this episode, the third in an ongoing series, the Guidelines are examined from both perspectives. What they got right includes clearer messaging about added sugars, a stronger emphasis on dietary patterns, fiber, and life-stage nutrition. And where they fall short, including confusion around saturated fat, mixed messaging on dietary fats, and the shift toward more rigid language around sugars and additives.
This episode provides context, clarity, and practical takeaways to help interpret the Guidelines without oversimplifying the science.