The Nutrition Facts Panel contains more than calories and macronutrients. In this episode, the focus shifts to micronutrients, percent Daily Values, and how to use this information without confusion or overwhelm.

This second episode in a two-part series explains why certain vitamins and minerals appear on the label, what nutrients of concern really mean, how sodium, potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamin D fit into daily intake, and how to interpret percent Daily Value in a practical way.

You will learn why the label uses a 2,000-calorie reference, what 5 percent and 20 percent Daily Value actually tell you, why some nutrients have no %DV at all, and how to use the label as a comparison tool rather than a scorecard.

Nutrition labels are everywhere, but many people still find them confusing. This episode breaks down the Nutrition Facts panel in a clear, practical way. Learn what serving sizes really mean, how to interpret calories, and how fats, carbohydrates, and protein are listed so you can use food labels as a helpful tool rather than a source of stress. This is part one of a two-part series on understanding the Nutrition Facts panel.

Alcohol shows up often during holidays and celebrations, but the habits around drinking do not start or end there. In this episode, we take a realistic look at mindful drinking and what alcohol can teach us about our patterns, physiology, and decision-making.

Topics include how alcohol affects hunger and cravings, why sleep quality suffers after drinking, common hangover myths, and what actually helps with recovery. This is not about judgment or restriction. It is about awareness, education, and understanding how alcohol fits into real life.

This episode pairs with recent blog posts on alcohol and appetite, alcohol and sleep, and hangover myths and facts. Listeners will walk away with practical context and a clearer understanding of how alcohol interacts with the body and daily habits.

Explore how front-of-package food labels use marketing language to influence choices. Learn which claims are regulated, which are misleading, and how to identify red flags when reading labels.

Part two of a two-part series that makes sense of the information on your food labels.

Food labels are full of numbers, claims, and buzzwords — but how much of it really matters? This episode breaks down the basics: what’s required by law, what’s optional but regulated, and how to interpret those common phrases like “low fat,” “good source of,” or “light.” Learn how to read the ingredients list, understand nutrient claims, and separate useful facts from marketing fluff.

Part one of a two-part series that makes sense of the information on your food labels.

Salt often gets a bad reputation, but the truth is more nuanced. In this episode, we’re talking about sodium: what it does in the body, why we need it, and how too much can create real health problems. You’ll learn about the sources of sodium in your diet, how to interpret food labels, and practical strategies for balancing your intake without extremes. This episode pairs with the blog “Salt: Why Your Body Needs It—But Not Too Much,” linked in the show notes.

This episode breaks down the most common food ingredients and additives on U.S. labels—what they are, why they’re used, and what’s actually worth paying attention to. Plus, a quick comparison to European ingredient standards.

Episode 195: Coffee, Caffeine, and Energy: What Helps, What Hurts

Let’s talk caffeine — from coffee to energy drinks. What’s helpful? What’s harmful? And how much is too much? In this episode, Shelley covers what you need to know about your favorite pick-me-up.