Nutrition Diva

Yogurt prevents diabetes?

24 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Yogurt makers can now say that eating yogurt reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes. What do know about this new “qualified claim”?Mentioned in this ...

The snack paradox

17 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

How does our desire to avoid processed foods square with our out-of-control snacking habits?References:2024 Food & Health Survey - International Food ...

How does a pH-balancing diet work?

10 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discussing the difference between acidic and acid-forming foods, explains how the body maintains pH balance, and evaluates the potential health benefi...

What’s the deal with prebiotic sodas?

03 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

All about prebiotic sodas including their fiber content, health benefits, and how they compare to kombucha.Mentioned in this episode:ND 412 What Apple...

All about kefir, including how to brew your own

26 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Exploring the world of kefir, from its health benefits to its unique fermentation process. Related links:https://culturesforhealth.com/ New to Nutrit...

Could fish oil actually increase your risk of cardiovascular events?

19 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

A new study adds more doubt to the value of fish oil supplementation for heart disease prevention. New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our special Spotif...

How nutrients in foods and supplements work together

12 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn why whole foods often provide a nutritional edge, when supplements might be necessary, and how timing impacts nutrient availability.Related list...

The truth about magnesium and muscle cramps

05 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Magnesium may or may not help prevent muscle cramps. Here’s why.References:Magnesium for muscle cramps | CochraneAn Evidence-Based Review of the Pat...

What really works to clean fresh produce? (Reissue)

29 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Bloggers recommend everything from bleach to baking soda. Food safety experts insist that tap water is all you need. What’s the best way to kill ger...

What is Spirulina good for?

22 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Super food or expensive pond scum? Is this “green food” worth the greenbacks? Find out what nutritional benefits spirulina offers. Also, we review...

What’s the link between diet and mental health?

15 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how what you eat affects how you feel.Related listening:  How Food Affects Mood (Part 1) (Nutrition Diva #282)How Food Affects Mood (Part 2) (...

Are these healthy foods too risky to eat?

08 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

A couple of recent news stories are causing concern about chemical exposure from foods that we would normally consider healthy. How does this affect y...

What can sea moss do for your health?

01 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Sea moss supplements are promoted as being good for thyroid, digestive, skin and immune health. What’s the evidence to support the claims?Related li...

Can you really be healthy at any size?

24 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Some argue that obesity does not necessarily increase your health risks. Science suggests otherwise.Related listening:Turning down the food noise, wi...

What’s the problem with seed oils?

17 Apr 2024

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 collagen supplements worth the money?

10 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Collagen supplements are promoted as a way to plump your skin, cushion your joints, and enhance your workout. What’s the evidence to support the cla...

BONUS: Dirty Dozen - Much ado about nothing?

08 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Monica discusses The Dirty Dozen list and whether or not these foods with the highest level of pesticides are, in fact, unsafe to consume.Related list...

What exactly are the advantages of eating seasonally?

03 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Eating fresh local produce is a great idea. But there's no reason to avoid fruits and vegetables because they aren't in season.Related listening:Are H...

Turning down the food noise, with Dr. Nina Crowley

27 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, we're exploring the phenomenon of “food noise,”  how it relates to our overall health and weight management, and some ways to...

BONUS: Dieting is not the answer for PCOS, but weight loss may still play a role

25 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I respond to a recent article in the New York Times highlighting revised guidelines on managing PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). The article states t...

How does sodium intake affect bone health?

20 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

How could the recent trend of taking salt supplements affect your bone health?Related listening:Should you be eating (way) more salt? (Nutrition Diva ...

How much do you need to worry about getting too much niacin?

13 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Niacin is not a nutrient that you hear too much about. But a new research study  has people concerned about their intake.Related listening:Can these ...

BONUS: We need a better way to define ultra-processed food

11 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I don't doubt that there's a link between highly-processed junk food and increased risk of chronic disease.  But the way we are defining UPFs threate...

Is it time to give plant-based burgers a second try?

06 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Since their wildly successful introduction in 2019, plant-based burgers like Beyond and Impossible have continued to evolve. Let’s take a look at th...

BONUS INTERVIEW: Fighting food insecurity

05 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last week, I joined Tom Hall on WYPR  FM (my local NPR station here in Baltimore), for a segment on Midday, a daily news and current events show. We ...

How big a problem are microplastics?

28 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tiny plastic particles are ubiquitous in our food, water, and environment. What are the potential harms and what can we do to protect ourselves?Mentio...

Should you be eating (way) more salt?

21 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Influencers are claiming that most of us should be taking in a lot more salt than is recommended. Are they right?Related listening:Are we eating too m...

Are powdered green supplements like AG1 worth the money?

14 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

A closer look at health claims for a popular greens supplement. Plus, a new study links plant protein with healthy aging.Mentioned in this episode:AG1...

Is drinking milk unnatural?

07 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Some claim that drinking the milk of other animals—or drinking milk beyond infancy—is both unnatural and unhealthy. How do the arguments for and a...

How (not) to give nutrition advice

31 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Some advice for those who want to help their friends and family eat healthier. And some tips for those just starting out on the healthy eating journey...

Your burning nutrition questions answered

24 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

A round up of listener questions on processed foods, plant-based meats, and how to make sure you’re getting the right amount of protein, carb, and f...

How to reduce your exposure to pesticides

17 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It's a good idea to minimize your exposure to pesticides. But you might be surprised to find out where they are (and aren't) lurking.Mentioned in this...

Actually, food is not medicine

10 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Food is food. Medicine is medicine. We need both.Mentioned in this episode:Impact of Produce Prescriptions on Diet, Food Security, and Cardiometabolic...

Thinking of drinking less in 2024?

03 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tips for Dryuary and beyond.Mentioned in this episode:New research on the risks and benefits of alcoholRethinking drinkingSubstance Abuse and Mental H...

How to overhaul your diet

27 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

You’d like to make some changes to your eating habits. What should you focus on first?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel, MS, LDN.  Transc...

Can the Yuka app guide you to healthier choices?

20 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Yuka is a popular food scanning app that provides ratings on the health impact of products. But how accurate and useful are its scores?Nutrition Diva ...

What's the deal with Apeel?

13 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A new treatment extends the life of fresh produce. But some worry about toxic effects. Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel, MS, LDN.  Transc...

Do we need to refine our thinking about sugar and health?

06 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A new study finds that reducing your sugar intake doesn’t actually improve blood sugar control–unless you actually have diabetes.Nutrition Diva is...

How to Eat Healthy When Traveling

29 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel, MS, LDN.  Transcripts are available at Simplecast.Have a nutrition question? Send an email to nutrition@...

5 Ways to Save Yourself From Overeating This Thanksgiving

22 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Thanksgiving is this week; a time to gather with friends and family, be grateful for all we have, and stuff ourselves silly. Nonetheless, it’s no fu...

Dangers of Unplanned Eating (Reissue)

15 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Do you ever suspect that something is derailing your diet? In this episode we'll  go over a significant yet often overlooked area of nutrition: unpla...

Is the recommended intake of calcium higher than it needs to be?

08 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Dairy is a relatively recent addition to the human diet. How did early humans get enough calcium to develop and maintain healthy bones? RESEARCH CITE...

Are mushrooms a vegetable?

01 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How and where (and why!) mushrooms fit into a healthy eating pattern. Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is available at Simpl...

What is the future of bariatric surgery?

25 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A new class of obesity medications is revolutionizing obesity care. Will this make bariatric surgery obsolete?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reina...

How to build a better salad in 6 steps

18 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A big salad can be the healthiest meal of your day. But it’s also possible for salads to miss the mark. Here are six steps that will help you build ...

Ozempic plateaus, muscle loss, and more

11 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Clearing up some confusion about the weight loss drugs.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is available at Simplecast.Have a nut...

Does milk cause early puberty in kids?

04 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How do hormones in milk affect growth, puberty, and health?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is available at Simplecast.Have a...

The real reason personalized nutrition works

27 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Personalized nutrition works–but NOT for the reasons we think. This week, let’s take a look at dietary fads that claim to be tailored to your spec...

A provocative new study on ultra-processed foods

20 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Julie Hess joins the show to discuss a surprising proof-of-concept study that shows that processed foods may not be the villains we think of them ...

How to get calcium into your bones (and out of your arteries)

13 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

High-dose calcium supplements have been linked to heart risks. Are calcium-fortified foods any better?  Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel....

What the heck is mindful(ish) eating?

06 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We heard from so many people that you loved the interview with  Junja Gjata and Dr. Eddie Phillips from the Food, We Need To Talk podcast. Monica, Ju...

Your diet isn’t as healthy as you think

30 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In all likelihood, you’re overestimating the quality of your diet. Here are a few tips for interrogating your nutritional blind spots.Nutrition Diva...

Creatine: not just for muscleheads?

23 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Creatine has a long history of use with bodybuilders. But new research suggests it may play a role in preserving cognitive function as well.Nutrition ...

NAFLD is now MAFLD

16 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The common condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is being renamed. Here’s why.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcri...

Surprising study results undermine confidence in the MIND diet

09 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

An important update on the MIND diet, a dietary pattern that has garnered attention for its potential to support brain health and reduce the risk of c...

Tapping into the many benefits of resistant starches

02 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Let's get up-to-date on resistant starches, a category of nutrients that appear to offer a variety of benefits across the body.Nutrition Diva is hoste...

Are we depleting the soil of crucial nutrients?

26 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Are fruits and vegetables getting less nutritious thanks to soil depletion? Let's take a look at some of the latest research.Nutrition Diva is hosted ...

Celebrating 15 years of Nutrition Diva

21 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this special bonus episode of the Nutrition Diva podcast, we celebrate our 15th anniversary! You'll hear a conversation between Monica Reinagel, Mi...

Is nutrition a fake (or failed) science?

19 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

As we celebrate 15 years of the Nutrition Diva podcast, there’s a growing sense that nutrition science can’t be trusted.To celebrate this annivers...

Food, we need to talk

12 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Joining me today on Nutrition Diva are Juna Gjata and Dr. Eddie Phillips of the hit podcast and now a new book of the same name Food We Need to Talk.H...

Farm-raised vs wild-caught fish

05 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A lot has changed since we last talked about farm-raised  versus wild-caught fish, so let's check in on the latest research.Nutrition Diva is hosted ...

What is berberine and who should be taking it?

28 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

This natural compound is getting a lot of buzz as a blood-sugar modulator. What’s the science say about its benefits and safety?Nutrition Diva is ho...

Phytoestrogens in soy: Did we have the story wrong?

21 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

On this episode we'll talk about phytoestrogens in soybeans, and whether they have estrogen-like effects in women—for better or for worse.Nutrition ...

What does the new WHO recommendation on artificial sweeteners mean for you?

14 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The World Health Organization declares that, for most people, non-nutritive sweeteners (including natural ones like stevia) have more risks than benef...

Just how dangerous is brown rice?

07 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A listener worries that brown rice is “full of carcinogens.” What’s the truth about arsenic and brown rice and is it really a healthier option?N...

Listener Q&A: Water weight, stress eating, and more

31 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Sometimes questions that appear to be about nutrition are actually about something else entirely.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transc...

Are almonds to blame for the water crisis in the Southwest?

24 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof blames almond farmers for the water crisis in the Southwest. Is this fair?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica...

Prediabetes: Is it really a lifestyle disease?

17 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

My guest on the podcast today is Jill Weisenberger. She’s a registered dietitian nutritionist, certified diabetes care and education specialist, and...

How to lower high triglycerides

10 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

High triglycerides can increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. These diet and lifestyle adjustments can help you brin...

Does low thyroid function help you live longer?

03 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

People with low thyroid function appear to live longer. So why are drugs to boost thyroid levels among the most commonly prescribed medications?Nutrit...

Does a varied diet shorten your life?

26 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

“Eat a varied diet” is a fairly standard piece of advice. But some research suggests that less variety might lead to healthier diets. What’s the...

Can vitamin K2 prevent osteoporosis?

19 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Vitamin K2 plays an important role in heart health and bone formation. But how much is enough, and is it safe to take high doses?Nutrition Diva is hos...

Potty Talk with Tamara Duker Freuman

12 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

I’m joined today by my friend and colleague Tamara Duker Freuman. Long-time listeners will remember Tamara from previous episodes—most recently, c...

Is almond milk inflammatory? And more listener questions

05 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Do digestive enzymes impair nutrient absorption? Do potatoes count as vegetables? Should you be scrubbing your lemons? Nutrition Diva answers listener...

Do you need a continuous glucose monitor? (Reissue)

29 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Continuous glucose monitors were developed to help people with diabetes manage their blood sugar. But could they also help people optimize their healt...

Beyond FODMAPS with Beth Rosen, RD

22 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

You may already be familiar with something called the low FODMAP diet, which I’ve talked about in previous episodes. Although the low FODMAP diet ca...

Does drinking water with meals impair digestion?

15 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Fact-checking the claim that having water with food is bad for digestion or absorption. Also: how much variety do you need in your fruits and vegetabl...

What’s all this about erythritol and blood clots?

08 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

A new study links the use of a popular low-calorie sweetener with an increased risk of heart attacks and stroke. How worried should you be?Nutrition D...

Are saturated fats from plants healthier?

01 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We’re told that saturated fat is bad for your heart. But is saturated fat from plants different than saturated fat from meat or dairy?Nutrition Diva...

What really works to clean fresh produce?

22 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Bloggers recommend everything from bleach to baking soda. Food safety experts insist that tap water is all you need. What’s the best way to kill ger...

Is lean protein really better for you?

15 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We're often told to choose lean protein. But is lean protein actually healthier or is it time to retire this phrase? Plus, listeners respond to a rece...

We’re losing the sodium wars—but potassium could help turn the tide

08 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Telling people to eat less salt doesn’t seem to be working. Maybe we should focus on getting more potassium instead. New to Nutrition Diva? Check ou...

New research on risks and benefits of drinking alcohol

01 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Is there any amount of alcohol that can be considered safe? It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. Related links:Chart of alcohol consumption and inc...

Nutrient dense vs energy dense and why it matters

25 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Nutrient dense foods can help you optimize your nutrition. Energy dense foods can lead to weight gain. Here’s how these two factors interact in a he...

Heavy metals in chocolate: how worried should you be?

18 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Popular dark chocolate bars have been found to have concerning levels of lead and cadmium.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is...

Are keto-friendly products a healthy way to increase fiber?

11 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Low-carb products can be quite high in fiber. But are they a healthy way to get more fiber in your diet? Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel....

Are we eating too much protein? Or not enough?

04 Jan 2023

Contributed by Lukas

What's the latest guidance on how much protein we should eat, and what sources of protein are best, especially as we age?Nutrition Diva is hosted by M...

New Year’s resolutions for health educators, influencers, and media

28 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Those of us who write and speak about health have a responsibility to balance the doctrine of personal responsibility with the acknowledgment that poo...

Cocoa vs cacao: which is healthier?

21 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

You’ll pay a lot more for powdered cacao than for cocoa powder. Is it worth it? Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is availa...

Nutrition tips for night shift workers

14 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Strategies to help night shift workers eat healthy and avoid weight gain.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is available at Sim...

The pros and cons of the Carnivore Diet

07 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Can eliminating all plant foods really be the key to weight loss and better health?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is availa...

Should you be taking digestive enzymes?

30 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Over-the-counter digestive enzyme supplements are marketed to help with digestive symptoms like indigestion, bloating, and gas. But can these suppleme...

Is it safe to keep eating these foods?

23 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Are the warnings about chia seeds and other healthy foods for real or just urban legends?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is ...

How does coconut oil affect cholesterol?

16 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Reducing your saturated fat intake can help bring down high cholesterol. But are the saturated fats in coconut oil better for heart health? Also: Can ...

Can micro-livestock feed the world?

09 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Insect protein is popping up in everything from energy bars to muffin mix to pet food.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is ava...

Can we trust industry funded research?

02 Nov 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Much of today’s food and nutrition research is paid for by commercial interests. Just how big a problem is this?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica R...

Can your diet reverse hair loss?

26 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Is your hair falling out? Nutrient deficiencies may be to blame. Reversing it starts with finding the cause.Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinage...

Is it better to space out your sugar intake?

19 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Are smaller amounts of sugar spread out over the day better than eating it all at once?Nutrition Diva is hosted by Monica Reinagel. A transcript is av...

Which supplements can lower your cholesterol without drugs?

12 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

Several nutritional supplements claim to lower cholesterol naturally. Can any of them replace cholesterol-lowering medications? Also: What’s the dif...

The FDA’s new definition of healthy

05 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

After 7 years of deliberation, the FDA has announced new criteria for which foods deserve to be called healthy. Plus: Are air-fryers really better for...