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.


Shelley Rael Shelley Rael

Foods to Add in The New Year

Many people set goals for the new year to lose weight, eat healthier, or start the latest trending diet, including lists of foods to cut out or avoid. This year consider an approach different from a temporary diet or short-term program by doing something for more than a few weeks while also improving health and weight.

While there is nothing wrong with a diet for a couple of weeks or 30 days, dietary changes that will positively impact weight and overall health require eating better well past a month of restrictions.

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Shelley Rael Shelley Rael

“Calling Birds” and Black Foods

Did you also know that most black foods are good for you? We often promote color in nutrition, and as dietitians, we suggest a rainbow of colors for your fruits and vegetables: red, orange, yellow, green, purple, and even white. But what about black foods? Here are seven black foods you can easily incorporate into your diet now and into the new year.

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Shelley Rael Shelley Rael

Protein - Plant vs. Animal Sources

Based on what people tell me, they often think that the only way to get protein in their diet is to eat meat or drink protein shakes.

And, yes, this is still true today that people think this.

How do I know? I teach nutrition at my local college, including a sports nutrition class.

Every single term, students are shocked to learn they can get protein from foods other than meat! Of course, some students know otherwise, but I am not overstating or exaggerating when I say that students, and likely the larger population, don’t know that there are plenty of food sources of protein. And meat isn’t the only source.

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