Nutrition Diva
Episodes
What science has to say about your sweet tooth
29 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
862. Can you actually "reset" your taste buds by cutting out sugar? You’ve heard that a 30-day sugar detox will make your cravings disappear, but a ...
Can your diet reverse hair loss? (Reissue)
29 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
689. Is your hair falling out? Nutrient deficiencies may be to blame. Reversing it starts with finding the cause.Nutrition Diva is a Quick and Dirty T...
Bread first or last? Does food order affect blood sugar?
22 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
861. Can the order in which you eat your food "flatten the curve" of your blood sugar? From social media influencers to clinical research, a lot of pe...
Cook or compost? What to do with carrot tops, avocado pits and peanut shells
15 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
860. Are you throwing away the most nutritious parts of your groceries? From blending avocado pits into smoothies to snacking on peanut shells, social...
What’s with the pickle juice shot trend?
01 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
859. Does pickle juice really work, or are we all just falling for a briny trend?From the sidelines of the Philadelphia Eagles to the "wellness shots"...
The science (and sales appeal) of low net carb candies
01 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
858. Are "low net carb" candies actually a healthy alternative, or just clever chemistry? In this episode, Monica breaks down the science of net carbs...
Are you "killing" the nutrients in your food? InstantPots, microwaves, and leftovers…and my only cardinal rule
25 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Does your food lose its nutritional value as soon as it hits the heat? This week on Nutrition Diva, Monica answers a listener's question about how dif...
Is coffee mold actually making you sick?
18 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
856. According to the internet, your morning brew might be hiding "mold toxins" that cause brain fog, fatigue, and digestive issues. But is mold-free ...
9 Ways to Optimize Breakfast
11 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
855. Is your "healthy" breakfast actually setting you up for a mid-morning crash? Many of us reach for 100-calorie yogurt cups or fiber bars thinking ...
New Research Alert: How do sugar substitutes affect the microbiome?
04 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
854. Do artificial sweeteners help—or hurt—efforts to manage weight? Fresh research offers some surprising new answers. References: Effect of sw...
Study proves that UPFs cause weight gain…or does it?
25 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
853. A recent study on ultra-processed foods seems to be yet another nail in the coffin for UPFs. But all is not as it seems. References Effect of ult...
How do fermented dairy products affect cholesterol?
18 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
852. Fermented dairy may affect cholesterol differently than butter or processed meats—but it’s not a free pass. Here’s what the evidence actual...
Fiber-maxxing: How much fiber is too much?
11 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
851. A current nutrition trend encourages people to dramatically increase their fiber intake. But how much fiber is actually helpful? And when can “...
Maybe “hyperpalatabilty” isn’t the problem after all
04 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
850. What if the real danger of hyperpalatable junk food isn't that it tastes too good, but that it actually silences the biological signals that tell...
Have GLP-1s become the new Botox?
28 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
849. It is now easier than ever to get a prescription for powerful weight-loss drugs, thanks to a growing number of telehealth providers. But is thi...
Your questions about coffee and health
21 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
848. An episode we did earlier this month about coffee prompted questions from many listeners. Does coffee spike your cortisol? How does it affect the...
Does a high protein diet accelerate aging?
14 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
847. Does a high-protein diet accelerate aging or shorten life expectancy? It’s not a simple yes or no.ReferencesLow Protein Intake Is Associated wi...
Fact check: Is it bad to drink coffee on an empty stomach?
07 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
846. The internet has lots to say about how coffee affects your stomach. Unfortunately, most of it is wrong.References:Addition of milk to coffee beve...
Nutrition's Year in Review: Trends of 2025 and what's coming in 2026
31 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
845. A look back at the biggest food and nutrition trends of the last year, plus, a glimpse into my crystal ball.Related episodes:735 - A provocativ...
How alcohol is metabolized (Reissue)
24 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
169. What should you eat before and after drinking alcohol? New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our special Spotify playlist for a collection of the best...
Does soybean oil drive obesity?
17 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
844. A recent study claimed to identify a mechanism by which soybean oil drives obesity (and coconut oil does not). But the interactions between diet ...
Does growing almonds really waste too much water?
10 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
843. A closer look at how these alleged water-hogs stack up against other crops in terms of nutrition, environmental and economic impacts.References: ...
IV drip bars: What you really get for $300
03 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
842. With holiday indulgence season approaching, IV drip lounges promise to “undo” the damage—but do they deliver?References:To IV or Not to IV:...
How long does caffeine really stay in your system?
26 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
There’s definitely a lot of individual variation. But knowing the half-life of caffeine is useful…especially if you actually understand what the h...
When “healthy eating” means eating more
19 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
840. Eating healthy is usually understood to mean eating less. So, what happens when you actually need to eat more—and everything you’ve learned a...
Getting the lead out (of your protein shake)
12 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
839. Lots of us rely on powders and shakes to meet our protein goals. A new report suggests that this could be exposing us to “concerning” levels ...
Touching GRAS: What ‘generally recognized as safe’ really means
05 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
838. Are manufacturers using a regulatory loophole to sneak untested chemicals into our food? In this episode, we break down what GRAS really means, w...
Can healthier soil make food more nutritious? Yes, but…
29 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
837. Regenerative farming focuses on improving the health of the soil. How does this translate into improved human health? It’s a bit more complex t...
This is your brain on blueberries (Reissue)
22 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
673. Can daily blueberry consumption actually improve your brain health? A 2022 study finds that daily blueberry consumption may help improve your cog...
Is beef tallow a healthy fat?
15 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
836. Fast-food chains are frying their French fries in beef tallow instead of vegetable oil. Is this actually a healthier choice—or just clever mark...
Does Time-Restricted Eating increase heart risk?
08 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
835. A new study suggests that a short eating window more than doubles your risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. But is that really what the dat...
The Truth About ‘Cortisol Belly’
01 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
834. Is stress really to blame for stubborn belly fat—or is this just the latest internet hype? Let’s look at the science behind cortisol, belly f...
Can an estrogen-lowering diet make men more manly?
24 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
833. From broccoli to red wine, certain foods are promoted as natural estrogen blockers. Is there any science to support the claims?References Aromat...
Does Ozempic slow aging? Separating facts from hype
17 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Could Ozempic slow—or even reverse—aging? We take a closer look at the science behind the buzzy headlines.References:Semaglutide Slows Epigenetic ...
Are industrial emulsifiers harmful to your health?
10 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
831. Food emulsifiers are everywhere—from ice cream to peanut butter to bread. How do they affect gut health, inflammation, and chronic disease risk...
What are nightshades and are they inflammatory?
03 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we separate fact from fiction, explain who might truly be sensitive to nightshades, and why most of us shouldn’t avoid these nutrit...
Nutrition Diva Mailbag: Answers to your latest questions
27 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Answers to listener questions about coffee and cholesterol, “natural” nitrites from celery powder, hazards of home-frying, and whether ketone ener...
Are protein pastas worth the money?
20 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The pasta aisle has become increasingly crowded with new, protein-enhanced options. Are they worth the premium price? Find a full transcript here.Add...
Toxic tea bags? Sorting fact from fear
13 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Once again, the internet is warning us that a healthy habit might actually be harming us. The latest scare is about tea. Are you actually brewing up a...
How safe is your tap water?
06 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
How to find out what’s in your water and find the best water filter for your situation.Find a full transcript here. Other Nutrition Diva episodes m...
Two big reasons to rethink your fish oil supplement
30 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A shockingly high percentage of fish oil supplements are actually rancid–which means they may be doing more harm than good.Additional episodes menti...
Can HMB help prevent age-related muscle loss?
23 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A new meta-analysis evaluates the potential benefits of this muscle-building supplement. Can it make a significant difference? Find our new Staying S...
Resistant starch: Your questions answered
16 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Resistant starch acts more like fiber than starch—and may offer unique benefits for blood sugar, gut health, and more. In this episode, we break dow...
Are protein powders as filling as protein from real foods?
09 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Are protein powders as filling—or as effective—as whole food sources like meat, fish, or tofu? New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our special Sp...
What’s the problem with seed oils? (Reissue)
02 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Influencers are sounding the alarm about the many alleged dangers of seed oils. Let’s look at the evidence.Related listening:Does the Ratio of Omega...
Are you making your smoothies all wrong?
25 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Studies suggest that common ingredient combinations can reduce nutrient absorption. But don’t abandon your smoothie routine just yet. New to Nut...
Are GLP-1s the “cure” for our addictive food supply?
18 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Do the new anti-obesity medications treat a metabolic disease or a psychological one? New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our special Spotify playlis...
BONUS: Dirty Dozen - Much ado about nothing? (Reissue)
16 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Monica revisits The Dirty Dozen list and whether or not these foods with the highest level of pesticides are, in fact, unsafe to consume. This is a re...
Should certain foods come with warning labels?
11 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Former FDA Commissioner David Kessler believes it’s time to treat certain foods the way we treat cigarettes. But food is not tobacco. Dr. Kessler's...
Can we really be addicted to food? (With Dr. David Kessler)
04 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today's episode explores whether certain foods can be addictive, with insight from Dr. David Kessler, former FDA Commissioner and author of "Diet, Dru...
Molecular Hydrogen: Legit breakthrough or the latest overhyped supplement?
28 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
There’s a lot of buzz about molecular hydrogen–and there is some science to talk about. Let’s sort the hope from the hype. References: Hydroge...
BONUS: Keeping our bones and bodies strong as we age (Stronger Bones at Every Age, Part 4)
26 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
As we enter our senior years, bone loss accelerates and the risk of fractures rises—but there’s still plenty we can do. In this final episode of o...
Beef vs. beans: A shootout at the breakfast corral
21 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Fiber and protein can both work to tame your appetite. But both have a lot of other important jobs to do as well. Can we optimize for both? Transcrip...
BONUS: Maintaining bone health during the hormonal changes of midlife (Stronger Bones at Every Age, Part 3)
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
During midlife, the focus shifts from building bone to preserving it. In the third installment of our special series "Stronger Bones at Every Age," we...
Multi-grain vs whole grain
14 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Do you think of these labels as being more or less interchangeable? Today, we’ll clear up some of the confusion around multi-grain and whole grain l...
BONUS: Maximizing peak bone mass during young adulthood (Stronger Bones at Every Age, Part 2)
12 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Teens and young adults are in their final window to build strong bones for life. In the second installment of our special series "Stronger Bones at Ev...
The raw truth about juicing
07 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Juicing promises an easy way to cram more fruits and veggies into your day—but is it really a shortcut to better health?Mentioned in this episode:Ar...
BONUS: Laying the foundation for a lifetime of bone health (Stronger Bones at Every Age, Part 1)
05 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the first installment of our special series "Stronger Bones at Every Age," we explore how the choices we make in childhood can set the stage for li...
Should fluoride still be in our water?
30 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
HHS Secretary Kennedy wants to ban the use of fluoride in public water supplies. What are the arguments for and against this practice?References:CDC: ...
What’s the deal with Fatty15?
23 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A new anti-aging supplement claims to combat “cellular fragility”. There’s just one small problem. ReferencesEfficacy of dietary odd-chain satu...
What are senolytics (and should you be taking them)?
16 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
These compounds are said to fight aging by clearing “zombie cells” out of your body. Is there any science to back this up?ReferencesEffects of int...
Pendulum probiotics: Breakthrough or bandwagon?
09 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Four years ago, Pendulum Therapeutics launched a breakthrough probiotic clinically shown to improve blood sugar in Type 2 diabetes. Do their newer pro...
Where do we go now for reliable health and nutrition information?
02 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Practical guidance on evaluating sources and tips to help you navigate misinformation.Nutrition Diva archives:https://nutrition-diva.simplecast.com/ep...
Is American wheat really making us sick?
26 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Travelers who avoid wheat in the U.S. frequently claim that European bread is no problem. What’s going on? New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our spec...
What’s the best protein powder?
19 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A protein powder can be a convenient way to add a little extra protein to your diet. Does it matter which one you use?Mentioned in this episode:New wa...
The raw milk debate: What’s fact and what's fiction?
12 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Raw milk is often praised for its potential health benefits, but how do those claims stack up against the risks? This episode breaks down the science ...
The real truth about fiber supplements your digestive health needs
05 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Monica explores whether fiber supplements like Metamucil or Benefiber are necessary for digestive health. While fiber is crucial for digestion, heart ...
Can tomatoes make you happier? What a new study suggests
26 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A new study suggests that lycopene may have antidepressant-like effects in mice. But what does this really mean for you?Mentioned in this episode:Lyco...
Finally, relief for those agonizing leg cramps?
19 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A new study finds that vitamin K2 may be helpful for nighttime leg cramps. What else can it do for us? Related listening:The truth about magnesium an...
Why we crave junk food at night (and what to do about it)
12 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Why do late-night snack cravings hit so hard? It’s more than just willpower—circadian rhythms, sleep, and modern habits all play a role. Here’s ...
Why you should eat more beans (and how to make it easier)
05 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Experts say we need to eat more beans. Let’s look at why (and how) we should do this.Related listening:What is the FODMAP diet? (Nutrition Diva #2...
800 Episodes Later: How nutrition science has changed since 2008
29 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this special 800th episode, Monica takes a look back at how much nutrition science has changed since the podcast started in 2008. From low-carb die...
BONUS: Attack of the killer... Brussels sprout?
27 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this special bonus episode, Monica responds to a listener who wrote her about a claim from Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy suggesting eating Brussels sp...
These two nutrients may prevent cognitive decline, but there is a catch
22 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Explore what science says about DHA and folic acid for brain health—and who most benefits from taking them.Related listening:Surprising study result...
What is gymnema sylvestre and can it help with sugar cravings?
15 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Diving into the science behind Gymnema sylvestre, an herb that dulls sweet taste perception and may reduce sugar cravings. Why this "sugar destroyer" ...
Is high fructose corn syrup really that bad?
08 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Is high fructose corn syrup as harmful as its reputation suggests? Monica revisits the HFCS debate to separate science from misinformation. Learn how ...
5 tips for eating healthier in the New Year
30 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Monica shares five practical tips for healthier eating in the new year, including managing willpower, prioritizing protein, and indulging wisely.Menti...
Please don't eat the mistletoe! (Reissue)
23 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Repurpose those holiday craft supplies into healthy snacks! Check out our guide to the most nutritious holiday decor. Links to recipes and resources ...
Debunking common myths about sulfites and wine
18 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Let’s clear up some of the most common misunderstandings about sulfites, wine, and headaches.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel, MS, LDN. ...
Do alcohol mitigation products really work?
11 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With festive gatherings on the horizon, Monica dives into two buzzworthy alcohol mitigation products, ZBiotic and Sure Shot, to explore their claims o...
What nutrients work to ward off colds and flus?
04 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Exploring the science behind popular immune-boosting nutrients and remedies. Which supplements like vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc have evidence-based...
Do food dyes cause hyperactivity?
27 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
California recently enacted legislation to ban certain food dyes in public schools. What’s the scientific case to support this?Nutrition Diva is hos...
The revolution in diabetes care that no-one is talking about
20 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
GLP-1s have revolutionized how we think about and treat obesity. But that wasn’t what they were originally intended for. Mentioned in this episode:...
A simpler way to get relief for IBS?
13 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A low-FODMAP diet can often relieve IBS symptoms, but it’s a challenging protocol. A new study suggests there may be an easier road to relief.Mentio...
The surprising links between UPFs and diet quality
06 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
New research shows that the debate over UPFs is more complex than you might think and suggests that it’s too soon to make blanket recommendations.Me...
How to choose a protein bar (Reissue)
30 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Not all protein bars are created equal. Let's examine the difference between energy bars and protein bars and talk about what to look for when choosin...
Latest research on intermittent fasting and time restricted eating
23 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Learn about the potential benefits, risks, and practical considerations for implementing this popular eating pattern, especially for women. Reference...
Sunscreen vs. Vitamin D: Finding the right balance
16 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
How do we balance the need to protect our skin from UV rays with our body’s need for vitamin D?Mentioned in this episode:DMinder (iOS/Android) - htt...
How to beat acid reflux for good
09 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Although they are among the most widely prescribed medications and most popular over-the-counter remedies, acid blocking drugs may not be the best way...
Acrylamide in food: Should you be worried?
02 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Is there a carcinogen lurking in your corn flakes?References: A Review of Dietary Intake of Acrylamide in Humans - PMC (nih.gov)Acrylamide Intake t...
Nutrition literacy in the age of TikTok
25 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
How to spot nutrition misinformation online and find sources you can trust.Related Links:How to spot questionable nutrition informationMyFitnessPal bl...
Helping kids of every size thrive
18 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this special episode, host of the QDT podcast, Project Parenthood Chelsea Dorcich talks with pediatric nutritionist Jill Castle about her new book ...
How probiotic foods do (and don’t) affect your gut
11 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The surprising ways that fermented and cultured foods support your health.Check out my special Spotify playlist of episodes dedicated to Gut Health he...
BONUS: Food insecurity goes to college
09 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
For the millions of college students who struggle to pay for food, help is available.Resources:Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Estimated El...
Healthy eating tips for college students
04 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
How to eat healthy when time, space, and money is tightResourcesThe College Vegetarian Cookbook: 150 Easy, Budget-Friendly Recipes by Stephanie McKerc...
What makes soy more than just another bean?
28 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
How to harness the full power and benefits of of Isoflavones. New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our special Spotify playlist for a collection of the be...
What you need to know about TMAO
21 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Delving into the science behind Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and its potential link to cardiovascular disease.Mentioned in this episode: Soluble Die...
Can you absorb nutrients through the skin?
14 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Examining whether vitamins and nutrients can really be absorbed through the skin using products like patches and creams. New to Nutrition Diva? Chec...
Are sweet proteins the new Stevia?
07 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
These naturally occurring proteins can replace sugar in foods. How do these new ingredients stack up against other low or no-calorie sweeteners?Mentio...
When do probiotic supplements make sense? (Reissue)
31 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
US consumers are spending 3 billion dollars a year on probiotic supplements. Are they getting a good return on investment?Mentioned in this episode:Ch...