
Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition
Optimal Health Daily, hosted by the esteemed Dr. Neal Malik, a tenured professor, registered dietitian nutritionist, and certified exercise physiologist, is a treasure trove of health and wellness insights. Dr. Neal delves into the latest research and timeless wisdom in nutrition, fitness, and diet, presenting them in easy-to-understand, digestible episodes. His expertise shines through as he handpicks and narrates the most informative and inspiring blog posts, offering practical tips and motivational stories to help listeners on their journey to optimal health.Each episode is a blend of science-based information and real-life application, making it a unique resource for anyone looking to improve their health and wellbeing. Dr. Malik's approach is holistic and inclusive, recognizing the importance of balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness. By focusing on diet, fitness, and nutrition, each episode provides you with the tools needed to achieve your health goals. His engaging narration and the podcast's diverse range of topics make it an essential daily listen for you as you seek to lead a healthier, more balanced life.This podcast is designed for those passionate about diet, fitness, and nutrition. It’s your go-to source for practical advice on managing your diet, improving your fitness, and understanding nutrition. Each episode offers actionable steps to foster a healthier lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of diet, fitness, and nutrition in achieving optimal health.Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...
Latest episodes

Mar 5, 2025 • 11min
2898: [Part 1] From Weight Loss to Maintenance: How to Navigate a Tricky Transition by Rachel Trotta
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 2898:Losing weight is one thing, but keeping it off long-term requires a shift in mindset and habits. Rachel Trotta challenges the myth that maintaining weight is harder than losing it, emphasizing the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes. She shares key strategies for navigating the transition, including keeping exercise a priority and strategically increasing food intake to find a "new normal" without regaining weight.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://racheltrotta.com/fitness/from-weight-loss-to-maintenance/Quotes to ponder:"It’s easy to lose weight, but it’s harder to keep it off.""Instead, you need to embrace that you have a ‘new normal.’""Keep in mind that exercising an hour per day does not mean slogging it out on the treadmill for 60 minutes every night."Episode references:National Weight Control Registry: http://www.nwcr.ws/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 4, 2025 • 13min
2897: Is Eating While Standing Up Bad for You by Alina Petre with Healthline on How to Improve Digestion
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 2897:Alina Petre explores how eating while standing affects digestion, metabolism, and hunger levels. While standing may speed up digestion and slightly boost calorie burn, it can also increase hunger, cause bloating, and lead to faster food consumption. For those with acid reflux, standing upright while eating could help reduce symptoms, but individuals with food sensitivities may experience digestive discomfort.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eating-while-standing-upQuotes to ponder:"Eating while standing may promote increased metabolism and may help with a small amount of fat loss.""Individuals with reflux or heartburn may benefit from standing upright while eating to allow food to digest faster.""Your posture can affect how quickly you digest food. Digestion is slowest when you’re lying down and quickest when you’re standing up and moving." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

7 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 10min
2896: Always Dominate Monday AND Is It Really Worth It? By Steve Kamb of Nerd Fitness on FitSpo
Transform your Mondays from a dreaded chore into a powerful launchpad for success. Embrace a proactive mindset to set the tone for a productive week. Overcome the mental hurdles that come with the weekend and make intentional choices to foster growth. Discover the joy of fitness and personal achievements, and explore effective hiring techniques to enhance your team. Small changes can lead to big results, proving that Mondays are not the enemy, but rather a fresh opportunity!

4 snips
Mar 2, 2025 • 9min
2895: Varying Your Exercise Routine by Steve Pavlina on Workout Advice
Mixing up your exercise routine can keep boredom at bay and boost motivation. Exploring new workouts enhances both physical and mental engagement. Trying different intensities and activities helps develop new neural pathways and improves overall fitness. Regularly changing your routine not only prevents plateaus but also makes workouts more enjoyable, transforming fitness into a sustainable lifestyle. Experimenting in the gym can uplift your energy and elevate your enjoyment in every session.

5 snips
Mar 2, 2025 • 10min
2894: Dealing with Debt In A Healthy Way by Andrea Joy of Saving Joyfully on How to Reduce Money Stress
Andrea Joy, an expert in personal finance, shares insightful strategies for managing debt without compromising mental health. She emphasizes creating realistic repayment plans and maintaining a positive money mindset. By focusing on progress over perfection, individuals can cultivate financial stability and reduce stress. Andrea also discusses the importance of setting achievable financial goals and avoiding predatory services. Her balanced approach offers a refreshing perspective on achieving financial freedom while prioritizing well-being.

11 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 11min
2893: How To Amp Up Your Fire with These Ten Energy Hacks by Susan Kolon of Kolon Performance Strategies
Explore ten energizing strategies to boost your vitality and enthusiasm for life. Learn how improving sleep, exercising, and reducing screen time can elevate your energy levels. Discover the power of laughter and social connections in combating fatigue. Small achievements, like crossing off a to-do list, can significantly enhance mental energy. This is not about energy drinks; it's all about natural habits to keep you motivated and refreshed throughout your day!

9 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 12min
2892: Q&A - Should I Start a Ketogenic Diet or Supplement with Ketones?
Delve into the intriguing world of the ketogenic diet and its growing popularity, particularly among celebrities and athletes. Discover its origins and how it fundamentally contrasts with the standard American diet. Dr. Neal Malik explores the safety of ketosis and addresses potential side effects. The discussion also highlights genetic factors that may impact individual responses to the diet, emphasizing that not everyone may benefit from ketosis. Supplementing with ketones is examined, shedding light on its effectiveness compared to a full ketogenic approach.

10 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 12min
2891: Million Dollar Question: Can I Lose Weight Without Exercise by DIYActive
Weight loss isn't just about hitting the gym; it's largely driven by what you eat. Hydration, portion control, and minimizing processed foods are key strategies for success. Discover how small dietary changes can lead to sustainable weight loss without rigorous exercise routines. Quitting soda is highlighted as a powerful step towards reducing calorie intake. Emphasis is placed on forming lasting habits and setting realistic goals to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

8 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 13min
2890: Protein Timing: Does It Really Matter? by Eric Bach of Bach Performance
The podcast dives into the ongoing debate about protein timing and its impact on fitness. It reveals that total daily protein intake is far more important than when you consume it. Myths surrounding post-workout protein windows are debunked, urging listeners to focus on their overall protein goals instead. Consistent planning and meeting dietary needs take precedence over the timing of meals. Listeners are encouraged to stop stressing about when to eat protein and concentrate on hitting their daily targets for better muscle growth.

10 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 13min
2889: Do you Lack Energy and Motivation AND The Benefits of Muscle by Chalene Johnson
Feeling stuck? Discover simple strategies to boost your energy and motivation. Setting attainable goals and moving your body regularly can transform your daily life. Lifting heavy weights won’t bulk you up; in fact, strength training is key for burning fat and enhancing overall health. Explore effective workout methods like high-intensity interval training, and debunk myths surrounding heavy lifting for women. Get ready to embrace fitness and regain your zest for life!