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.
What Actually Matters? Finding an Eating Pattern That Works for You
After exploring diets from every angle, what actually matters? Learn how to evaluate nutrition advice and choose an eating pattern that fits your health goals, preferences, and lifestyle.
Five More Weight Loss Myths Busted
From low-carb diets and gluten-free eating to vegan diets and exercise, these common weight loss myths continue to circulate. Learn what the evidence actually shows.
Not Every Diet Is About Weight Loss: Gluten-Free, Heart-Healthy, Diabetic, Low-FODMAP, and Other Therapeutic Diets
Not all diets are designed for weight loss. Learn how therapeutic diets such as gluten-free, diabetic, renal, low-FODMAP, and heart-healthy eating patterns help manage chronic medical conditions.
The Most Misguided Diets: Cabbage Soup, Military Diet, Detoxes, and Other Quick-Fix Promises
Do fad diets really work? Learn why quick-fix plans such as the Cabbage Soup Diet, Military Diet, detoxes, and cleanses produce short-term results but rarely lead to long-term success.
Healthier Fast Food: Is It Possible?
Can fast food fit into a healthy eating pattern? Learn practical strategies for making more balanced choices when eating at fast food and quick-service restaurants.
Does Dairy Deserve a Place in a Healthy Diet?
Is dairy healthy? Learn about dairy nutrition, lactose intolerance, dairy alternatives, A2 milk, common dairy myths, and how dairy can fit into a healthy eating pattern.
When Diets Go Sideways: How Keto, Carnivore, and Other Trends Drift from Their Original Purpose
Many popular diets began with a specific purpose unrelated to weight loss. Learn how keto, elimination diets, Whole30, and carnivore evolved into modern diet trends.
Five Weight Loss Myths Busted
Do you need to stop eating after 8 PM? Should everyone follow a 1,200-calorie diet? Learn the truth behind five common weight loss myths and what the evidence actually shows.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Why Eating More Produce Is Still Great Advice
Why do fruits and vegetables appear in nearly every healthy eating pattern? Learn the benefits of produce, common nutrition myths, and simple ways to eat more fruits and vegetables.
The Best Diets: DASH, MIND, Flexitarian, Mediterranean, and Why They Consistently Rank Well
What makes a diet one of the best? Learn why DASH, MIND, Mediterranean, Flexitarian, and plant-forward eating patterns consistently receive high rankings and what they have in common.
Are Mushrooms a Vegetable? Plus the Benefits of Adding More Mushrooms to Your Meals
Are mushrooms vegetables? Technically, no. Learn how mushrooms are classified, explore their unique nutrition benefits, and discover easy ways to add more mushrooms to your meals.
What Makes a Diet “Good”? Common Traits of Healthy Eating Patterns
What separates a healthy eating pattern from a fad diet? Discover the seven common characteristics shared by diets that consistently support health, including balance, variety, moderation, and sustainability.
What Is a Diet, Really? Why We’ve Misunderstood the Word “Diet”
Most people think of diets as weight-loss plans, but that’s not what the word originally meant. Learn why everyone follows a diet, how the term became misunderstood, and why healthy eating is about long-term patterns rather than restrictive rules.
Restaurant Menu Labeling: What Those Numbers Really Mean
Restaurant menus include calorie information, but how useful is it really? This blog explains what menu labeling means and how to interpret it.
Summer Eating Without the “Start Over Monday” Mindset
Summer often brings vacations, celebrations, and social eating. This blog explores how to approach it without guilt or the “start over Monday” mindset.
Building a Heart-Healthy Plate Without Overthinking It
Heart-healthy eating does not need to be expensive, bland, or complicated. Learn practical ways to build balanced meals that support long-term health.
Superfoods, Functional Foods, and Nutraceuticals: Do They Really Matter?
Superfoods are often marketed as superior, but what does that actually mean? This blog explains the terms and why overall patterns matter more.
Processed Meats: What They Are and What Actually Makes Them a Concern
Processed meats are often labeled as unhealthy, but what does that actually mean? This blog breaks down definitions, risks, and realistic intake.
Red Meat and Health: How Much Is Too Much?
Red meat is one of the most debated foods in nutrition. This blog breaks down what it is, what the research says, and how much is reasonable.
Are Olives a Healthy Food?
Olives are often overlooked compared to olive oil. This blog looks at their nutrition, benefits, and how they fit into a healthy eating pattern.