Nutrition Diva

Explore the intriguing connection between diet and hormones! Discover whether foods like broccoli and red wine can really block estrogen. Learn about aromatase and its role in balancing estrogen and testosterone. While some foods show promise in lab studies, real-world effects on hormone levels appear modest. Monica breaks down the difference between supplements and their actual impact. Ultimately, she emphasizes that overall diet and weight play a far more significant role in hormone health. Tune in for insightful takeaways!

Is Ozempic the key to slowing down aging? This discussion dives into a study suggesting semaglutide might actually reverse biological aging by around 9%, especially in those living with HIV. It emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing sensational headlines while also highlighting the role of lifestyle choices in healthy aging. With insights on the use of epigenetic clocks and the need for more research, it urges listeners to question media hype and focus on evidence-backed approaches to longevity.

Industrial emulsifiers are common ingredients in foods like ice cream and peanut butter, but their health effects might surprise you. The discussion dives into how these emulsifiers can impact gut health and potential links to inflammation and chronic diseases. An intriguing study challenges the idea that emulsifiers increase colorectal cancer risk. Moreover, the conversation offers practical tips on how to minimize exposure, making it essential listening for health-conscious foodies and anyone curious about what's in their pantry.

Explore the truth behind nightshade vegetables and their supposed inflammatory effects. The discussion clears up myths and highlights the rare instances of true sensitivities. You'll learn about the nutritional benefits these foods offer and why most of us can happily include them in our diets. The conversation aims to empower you to make informed choices based on science rather than anecdotes.

Listeners dive into the impact of coffee on cholesterol and question the healthiness of natural nitrites from celery powder. The conversation highlights the hazards of home-frying, including safety tips and best practices. There's also an exploration of ketone energy drinks and their mixed reputation among athletes, with research suggesting they may not enhance performance as hoped. Additional nutritional tips and resources for young athletes and weight loss are shared, making it a well-rounded discussion on contemporary health topics.

The podcast dives into the rising trend of protein-packed pasta alternatives like lentil and chickpea varieties. It investigates if these options truly deliver on their nutritional promises. Listeners learn about the differences between traditional, whole wheat, and enhanced pasta types. The discussion also highlights health benefits and compares legume-based products with gluten-free choices. Moreover, tips on boosting the nutritional value of pasta dishes with vegetables and lean proteins are shared.

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 cup of microplastics, heavy metals, and chemical additives? Find a full transcript here.Additional episodes mentioned in this episode:What's the difference between hazard and risk?Research mentioned in this episode: 2013 analysis of commercial teasAdditional resources from this episode: Plastic Free Tea Bags: Which Brands are Microplastic Free in 2025 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.

Discover what's lurking in your tap water, from microplastics to pharmaceuticals. Learn how to evaluate local water quality and understand the importance of safety ratings. Explore why so many people filter their water and how carbon filters can boost quality and taste. Find out what to look for when choosing a water filtration system, including essential certifications. Finally, weigh the pros and cons of tap versus bottled water to ensure you're drinking safely.

Many fish oil supplements on the market are found to be rancid, potentially causing more harm than good. The discussion emphasizes the importance of obtaining omega-3s from dietary sources rather than supplements. It raises concerns about the effectiveness of these products for heart and mental health. Additionally, there are intriguing questions about the link between fish oil and prostate cancer risk and whether omega-3 enriched eggs can match the benefits of actual fish.

The podcast dives into the role of HMB, a promising supplement for curbing age-related muscle loss. It highlights how sarcopenia begins in the mid-30s and worsens with age, emphasizing the importance of protein intake and strength training. Recent meta-analysis findings suggest that HMB can significantly boost muscle mass and strength, particularly when combined with exercise. The discussion also touches on optimal dosages and absorption, framing HMB as a vital component in the fight against muscle deterioration as we age.