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.
Alcohol in Moderation: What the Current Guidelines and Research Actually Say
Alcohol recommendations have changed. Here is what current research says about health risks, moderation, and who should avoid drinking altogether.
When Science Meets Politics: What Happened to the Advisory Committee’s Recommendations
The Advisory Committee report is not the final policy. What changed in the 2025 to 2030 Dietary Guidelines, and why does that matter?
How the Dietary Guidelines Are Made and Why That Process Matters
The Dietary Guidelines influence national nutrition policy, but how are they actually made? This post breaks down the multi-year process, who is involved, and why it matters.
Five Foods for a Healthy Heart
Heart health is not about restriction. These five foods can support cardiovascular health while still fitting into real life.
Where the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines Fall Short
The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines show progress, but several recommendations remain misaligned with the evidence. This post examines where nuance gets lost and why it matters.
The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines: What They Got Right
The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines are not flawless, but they do reflect meaningful progress. Here is what they got right and why it matters for real world nutrition.
What Are Sources of Protein in the Diet?
Protein is found in far more foods than most people realize. Meat is not the only source, and getting enough protein usually is not the issue people think it is.
What Changed Over Time in the Dietary Guidelines and What That Tells Us About Nutrition Science
The Dietary Guidelines have changed over time, but not randomly. Understanding what shifted and why helps explain how nutrition science evolves and why population guidance is never simple.
A Brief History of the Dietary Guidelines (1980–2025): What Has Stayed the Same?
Before we can critique the newest Dietary Guidelines, we need to understand how we got here. This post looks at what the Guidelines are, who they are for, and the themes that have remained consistent since 1980.
What Are Sugar Alcohols?
Sugar alcohols are found in sugar-free foods, gum, and sweeteners. Here is what they are, why they are used, and what to know before adding them regularly.
How to Build a Balanced Plate When Carbohydrates Are Involved
LA practical framework and sample meal plans for including carbohydrates, fiber, and sugar in balanced meals after weeks of nutrition education. Let’s apply things now.
Carbohydrates, Sugar, Fiber, and Chronic Disease
Carbohydrates are often blamed for chronic disease, but the science tells a more nuanced story. This post breaks down myths and facts about carbs, sugar, fiber, and long-term health.
Healthier Alternative Sugars: What the Science Actually Says
Honey, maple syrup, agave, and brown sugar are often thought of as healthier alternatives. This article breaks down what they are, how they compare nutritionally, and what really matters when choosing sweeteners.
Low-Carb and No-Carb Diets: What They Get Right and What They Miss
Low-carb diets mean different things to different people. This article breaks down the science, the short-term effects, and the long-term reality of cutting carbs.
“Detoxing” From Sugar and the Idea of Sugar Addiction
Sugar detoxes and sugar addiction claims are everywhere. This post breaks down what addiction really means, what science says, and why restriction often backfires.
What Are the Names of Added Sugars?
Added sugars go by many names. This post explains how added sugars are defined, where they appear on labels, and why recognizing sugar aliases matters.
What Are Net Carbs and Do They Actually Matter?
Net carbs are often promoted as a better way to count carbohydrates. This article explains what the term means, where it came from, and whether it is actually useful for health.
Fiber 101: Soluble, Insoluble, Functional Fiber, and Resistant Starch
Fiber is often overlooked, yet it plays a major role in digestion, heart health, blood sugar control, and disease prevention. This guide breaks down the types of fiber and why they matter.
Sugars: Natural vs Added
Not all sugar is the same. Learn the difference between natural and added sugars, how to read labels, and what actually matters for health.
What Are Carbohydrates? Fiber, Starch, and Sugar Explained
Carbohydrates are more than bread and sugar. Learn what they are, how the body uses them, and why they matter for energy and health.