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 Is the Most Important Part of Nutrition?
If you had to choose the most important part of nutrition, what would it be? The answer is not as simple as one food or one rule.
Whole Foods vs. Isolated Nutrients: Why Food Synergy Matters
Supplements may seem convenient, but they do not replace whole foods. Here is why nutrients work better together and what that means for your health.
Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics: What’s the Difference?
Probiotics get most of the attention, but prebiotics and postbiotics matter too. Here’s what each one is, where to find them, and how they support your gut microbiome.
Can You Calculate Exactly What Your Body Needs? (And Why It’s Not That Simple)
Can you calculate exactly how many nutrients your body needs? Nutrition equations provide estimates, but real life is far more complex. Learn why flexibility matters when it comes to eating.
Good For You Green Foods
Green foods are packed with nutrients that support health. From leafy greens and broccoli to avocados, green tea, and New Mexico green chile, learn why these foods deserve a place on your plate.
Adequacy, Balance, Moderation, and Variety: The Four Pillars of a Nourishing Diet
Do you need to track every calorie and nutrient to eat well? Not at all. Here is why nutrition is not exact and what really matters for a nourishing diet.
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.
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.
The Six Essential Nutrients Explained: A Foundational Guide to Nutrition
A big picture overview of the six essential nutrients, the five food groups, and how they work together to support everyday health.
Carbohydrates vs Sugar: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
Carbohydrates and sugar are not the same thing. Understanding the difference can make nutrition feel far less confusing.
Nutrition, Experience, and the Real World: Why the Basics Still Matter
After more than 25 years as an RDN, I am still teaching the basics. Here is why foundational nutrition education matters now more than ever.