Nutrition Diva

Is drinking coffee on an empty stomach really bad for you? It turns out the claims about coffee's acidity are misleading. While coffee does stimulate gastric acid, your stomach is designed to handle it. For most people, empty-stomach coffee won't cause irritation or discomfort. Interestingly, caffeine effects are all about sensitivity and dosage rather than just how hungry you are. Plus, opting for a dark roast or cold brew can be easier on the stomach. The main takeaway? If it feels fine, drink up!

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 provocative new study on ultra-processed foods789 - The surprising links between UPFs and diet quality827 - Toxic tea bags? Sorting fact from fear837 - Can healthier soil make food more nutritious? Yes, but…Find a transcript here. New to Nutrition Diva? Check out our special Spotify playlist for a collection of the best episodes curated by our team and Monica herself! We've also curated some great playlists on specific episode topics including Staying Strong as We Age, Diabetes, Weight Loss That Lasts and Gut Health! Also, find a playlist of our bone health series, Stronger Bones at Every Age. Have a nutrition question? Send an email to nutrition@quickanddirtytips.com.Follow Nutrition Diva on Facebook and subscribe to the newsletter for more diet and nutrition tips. Find out about Monica's keynotes and other programs at WellnessWorksHere.comNutrition Diva is a part of the Quick and Dirty Tips podcast network.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Explore the fascinating process of how alcohol is metabolized, debunking myths about its conversion to sugar. Discover effective hangover prevention tips, like making smart liquor choices and staying hydrated. Learn about food and remedies that can alleviate hangover symptoms, such as nutritional yeast and brisk walks. This enlightening discussion offers practical advice for enjoying alcohol while minimizing negative effects!

A fascinating discussion unravels the complexities of a recent study linking soybean oil to obesity, highlighting the role of linoleic acid and its transformation into fat-storing oxylipins. The comparison to coconut oil shows stark differences, especially in genetically modified mice. Monica emphasizes that whole soy foods differ from extracted oils and warns against oversimplified headlines. She provides practical tips on selecting healthier oils and limiting processed foods, urging listeners to be mindful of their dietary choices.

Dive into the debate over almonds' water usage, debunking the myth that one almond equals one gallon of water. Discover how almonds compare to other water-intensive tree crops and learn about the surprising efficiencies in almond production. Explore the environmental impacts of almond milk versus dairy, revealing that nut milks often have a lower water footprint. Unpack the economics of almond farming in California, where drought pressures intensify the debate, and hear how growers are adopting technology to enhance water efficiency.

With the holidays approaching, many turn to IV drip bars to supposedly reverse indulgences. The host dives into the origins of IV therapy, revealing its evolution from hospitals to wellness lounges. Common IV ingredients include saline, vitamins, and minerals, but do they really enhance nutrient absorption? Evidence suggests they may offer little more than hydration, and risks like infections and toxicity are significant. Instead of pricey treatments, the host advocates for nutrition, sleep, and balanced habits as healthier alternatives.

Explore the intriguing world of caffeine and its half-life! Discover how individual factors like age and genetics influence caffeine metabolism. Learn about the non-linear process of elimination and how it contrasts with substances like alcohol. Monica discusses the effects of caffeine on your body, typical durations, and how layering doses can disrupt your sleep. Plus, find out effective alternatives to your afternoon coffee and get tips on timing your caffeine intake for optimal benefits!

Healthy eating often implies eating less, but what if you need to eat more? A vegan couple found unintended weight loss highlighted the pitfalls of common dietary advice. Health professionals struggle to recommend higher-calorie options due to diet culture. Practical strategies like adding healthy fats and enjoying creamy soups can help boost nutrient intake. It’s crucial to focus on both energy-dense and nutrient-dense foods. Ultimately, embracing a mindset of eating more can be the key to maintaining health and muscle.

The podcast dives into a recent investigation by Consumer Reports revealing concerning levels of lead in protein powders. It discusses the health risks of low-level lead exposure, especially for vulnerable populations like children. The findings highlight why plant-based powders contain more lead than whey, with a worrying increase since 2010. Listeners learn how to calculate personalized protein needs and find safer protein powder options. Tips on reducing household lead exposure round out this crucial conversation about nutrition and safety.

Dive into the controversial world of food safety as manufacturers exploit regulatory loopholes with GRAS status. Discover what 'generally recognized as safe' truly means and how substances gain this status. Explore the differences between U.S. and EU approval processes for food additives. Uncover the implications of self-affirmed GRAS status and the transparency (or lack thereof) of these determinations. Learn why food safety remains crucial for manufacturers and how historical usage aids in safety assessments.