Sound Bites With Melissa Joy Dobbins

Parents are bombarded with and overwhelmed by complex cultural, environmental, economic and political issues that impact their parenting skills, choices and confidence. By approaching various parenting challenges and questions from a science and social justice lens and parenting based on values, we can be more aware of the systemic forces that harm kids, differentiate what we can and cannot control, and build more fulfilling relationships with our children. Tune in to this episode to learn about: ●        the connection between science and justice ●        science curiosity vs. science literacy ●        values-based parenting ●        food-related topics including: o   infant formula o   clean eating o   MSG o   PFAS/forever chemicals o   Fat phobia ●        Hazard vs risk ●        The origins of and history behind BMI ●        Resources and related episodes Full shownotes, transcript and resources: https://soundbitesrd.com/290             

Unbottled Potential: From Sober Curious to Sober Serious  As the sober curious movement gains traction, more people are reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and changing their habits. Challenging societal myths around alcohol’s role in relaxation, celebration and socializing can result in mindset shifts to begin exploring an alcohol-free lifestyle and discover how sobriety can impact core areas of life and enhance both personal and professional success. Tune in to this episode to learn about: ●       the sober curious movement ●       how sobriety impacts life pillars ●       why alcohol can be a barrier to success ●       perceived norms about alcohol ●       alcohol, sobriety and weight ●       how drinking impacts women in particular ●       how to address shame in a healthy way ●       a quiz to assess your feelings about drinking ●       tips for embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle ●       common challenges and how to stay on track ●       information on moderation, portion sizes

Beyond Thirst: The Crucial Role of Hydration on Health & Performance The connection between hydration and health is a relatively new and still under-researched area of science. However, emerging evidence suggests that staying well-hydrated plays a far more significant role in our health than most people realize. While it's widely known that adequate hydration supports healthy bowel function and helps regulate body temperature, research shows it also impacts a variety of health factors ranging from exercise performance to kidney function and even the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Tune into this episode to learn about: ●        the difference between dehydration and underhydration ●        the paradox of hydration ●        common myths about hydration ●        what happens in the body when you’re not optimally hydrated ●        what research shows regarding the impact of hydration on kidney function, UTIs, kidney stones, cortisol levels, glucose re

Despite the growing body of research, we are still in the early stages of understanding the gut microbiome. Consumer interest in biotics is growing and this trend is driving more research into pre, pro, post and synbiotics and their potential health benefits. This episode focuses on prebiotics, which are defined as “a substrate that is selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit” and are often associated with dietary fibers but may also derive from non-fiber substances such as polyphenols. Tune into this episode with Hannah Ackermann, MBA, RDN to learn about: ●        what prebiotics are and what they have to do with fiber ●        research regarding the known and emerging health benefits of prebiotics ●        health claims for prebiotics ●        trends in consumer interest in biotics ●        low FODMAP diets ●        what to look for on food labels ●        how different prebiotic fibers may impact GI symptoms ●        the prebiotic fiber ingredient Arrabina Wheat Fibe

“Low” Carbohydrate Diets and Metabolic Health: What Does the Research Show?   Commercial support has been provided by Simply Good Foods. Dr. Jim Painter was sponsored by an unrestricted grant from Simply Good Foods to speak on the podcast. No products or brands are discussed or promoted. Lower carbohydrate, higher protein and higher fat dietary patterns have seen a resurgence in interest in both the research community and in popular culture in the past decade. This has been accompanied by a clearer understanding of who may benefit from dietary patterns that reduce carbohydrate and increase other macronutrients and the ways in which these approaches change human metabolism to facilitate weight loss and improve glycemic control. While often regarded as fad diets, there is a significant amount of clinical evidence that can be used to evaluate the potential upsides and downsides of these types of dietary approaches. This research can be leveraged to understand what dietary factors should be considered wh

When you or your loved ones are in the hospital it can be overwhelming and stressful. You may feel unsure about speaking up and asking questions or sharing information with your healthcare team. But research indicates that up to 70% of patient harm events are due to communication breakdowns, and most people don’t realize how much power they have in managing their own care—and how understanding their rights and speaking up can truly make a life-saving difference. Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       understanding your healthcare consumer rights ●       taking charge of your own healthcare ●       how to help a loved one in the hospital ●       staying safe in the healthcare system ●       tools to navigate the healthcare system ●       how families and patients can speak up when they feel intimidated or reluctant ●       the 3 “P”s and “CUSS” words to empower conversations ●       stories and examples of healthcare harm that can impact patient safety ●       how to choose the best hospita

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 40% of American adults have obesity, costing the U.S. healthcare system an estimated $173 billion annually. The development of incretin-based therapies, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), marks a major advance in obesity treatment. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) play a crucial role in providing medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to people using these medications as part of comprehensive obesity care. Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       the new paper published in JAND about injectable weight loss medications and lifestyle interventions ●       the unique and evolving role of RDNs in obesity care ●       why this new class of obesity medications has become so popular ●       how these medications work ●       the amount of weight loss needed to reduce obesity related comorbidities ●       the evolution of different terms for these medications ●       the

How safe are the food dyes found in many of the products we consume daily? Are concerns about their effects based on scientific evidence or misinformation? With government agencies and researchers continuously evaluating these additives, what changes might we see if more regulations and bans are put in place? As food products evolve in response to shifting policies, how can consumers stay informed and make the best choices for themselves? Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       What types of foods/beverages contain food colors and why ●       Artificial vs. natural food dyes ●       What the research shows about the safety of food dyes ●       Common myths and misconceptions about food dyes ●       Challenges in making food color changes or product reformulations ●       The California food dye acts ●       Red dye number 3 ●       The differences and similarities between the US and EU approach to risk management ●       The truth about the differences between what the EU has banned compared

New Research on Food Allergy Prevention Indicates Crucial Timing of Allergen Introduction Current research shows that how we feed babies during infancy can help reduce the risk of food allergies. However, feeding guidelines regarding allergens have changed radically in the past decade, so it’s important to make sure we’re not following outdated advice that doesn’t align with new research. In addition, infant feeding guidelines in general have also changed. To address these updated guidelines and help parents navigate all the latest research and the process of starting solids, Malina Malkani recently released an evidenced-based baby-led feeding guide and cookbook that makes it easy to feed your baby with confidence, introduce allergens early and consistently, and offer delicious, stress-free meals the whole family will enjoy. Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       Why food allergy prevention strategies are necessary for all babies, not just those at increased risk ●       What the current research

UMF™ Mānuka Honey is A Functional Food: Look for the Quality Mark New Zealand mānuka honey is a powerful functional food. For centuries, the unique and powerful healing properties of the mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium) have been understood by the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand. With more than 2,300+ natural compounds identified in New Zealand mānuka honey it has captured the attention of scientists and health professionals across the globe. Research has identified mānuka honey’s Unique Mānuka Factor (UMF™), a unique group of bioactive compounds, such as methylglyoxal (MGO) and leptosperin, which in synergy contribute to its science-supported antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Today, UMF™ quality rating system is the most comprehensive, independently certified and internationally recognized quality assurance system for New Zealand mānuka honey. It’s designed to validate mānuka honey potency, authenticity, purity, shelf life and freshness for honey producers, b

The International Food Information Council (IFIC) conducts consumer research focused on attitudes and behaviors surrounding nutrition, food safety and food production. Their popular annual Food & Health Survey provides information about how Americans connect  food and food purchasing decisions to physical health and overall wellbeing. Other consumer surveys IFIC conducts, called “Spotlight Surveys”,  focus on various topics and also inform federal regulatory decisions, provide members with insights into consumer values and behaviors and help to shape public communications and education initiatives.  Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       key takeaways on surveys focused on three trending topics ●       why IFIC wanted to do a survey on snacking ●       if snacking is becoming more prevalent ●       what constitutes a “snack” ●       what consumers are looking for in a snack ●       opportunities to leverage snacking for better nutrition ●       how sodium impacts our eating experience beyo

The public continues to have a strong interest in food and health information, yet media sources vary in their credibility. Health professional communicators help shape public knowledge and attitudes by translating complex information while facing the challenge of processing large and often complex amounts of information in order to provide clear guidance to audiences with diverse literacy levels. This transmission of information influences public health outcome trends, scientific understanding, and information-sharing. The International Food Information Council has created a scientific communication guide with the goal of enhancing communicators’ ability to interpret scientific publications, ultimately helping the public make informed food and health choices. Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       who consumers trust for food/nutrition advice ●       the difference between misinformation, disinformation and malinformation ●       what it is about the scientific process that makes communicating sc

There are many essential aspects of diabetes management, but it’s no surprise that one of the most common questions people have about diabetes is “What can I eat?” The American Diabetes Association’s nutrition philosophy is: “informed food choices are essential for living well” and there are 7 key meal patterns as well as the Diabetes Plate to help guide food choices. However, food is more than just simply nutrients – it plays an important role in our culture, communities and celebrations – and it’s only one of many factors that influence our health.  Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       seven key meal patterns for managing diabetes ●       the Diabetes Plate and who might benefit from using it ●       the ADA’s new sister organization focused on obesity ●       the ADA’s approach to “food as medicine” ●       diabetes distress and how it impacts behaviors and outcomes ●       fasting and diabetes ●       including cultural and celebratory foods into healthy meal patterns ●       lifestyle

Many parents feel enormous pressure to raise fit, slender children. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 5 U.S. children and adolescents aged 2-19 have obesity, and approximately 4.1% were classified as underweight (in 2017-2018). As overweight and obesity rates are increasing, so are weight bias and stigma, especially regarding kids and teens. The “health at every size” movement and “anti-diet” approaches are becoming more popular – but can children really be healthy at any size? Is adopting healthy lifestyle behaviors truly an effective solution?   Tune into this episode to learn about: ●       what people get wrong about children with overweight or obesity ●       the key to helping kids with larger or smaller sized bodies ●       how to get beyond the basic advice and utilize practical strategies ●       the 8 pillars of wellness ●       the “learner, striver, thriver” concept ●       what a family manifesto is and why it is important ●       how to build intrinsic motivation ●       fosterin

It's well-established that nutrient adequacy in adolescence affects physical development and academic performance, as well as long-term health – yet research is woefully lacking for this life stage and dietary guidance lacks specificity for these unique needs. In fact, the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans noted that the nutrient gaps among adolescents are so significant, that this “constellation of potential nutritional risk factors” is a public health challenge. To help address this gap, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, partnered with Dr. Mario Ferruzzi and his team at the Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center, one of 6 USDA national nutrition centers, to convene 50 leading nutrition scientists, physicians, registered dietitians, and public health experts. This podcast episode is a result of conversations with many of the esteemed experts who presented there.   This podcast episode is sponsored by The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contracto

Commercial support for this podcast has been provided by Avocados – Love One Today® Cancer is a complex disease that is influenced by many factors including genetics, environment, and lifestyle behaviors. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, emerging evidence suggests that people who eat very little or no fruits and vegetables are at the greatest risk for developing certain cancers. In this episode, we explore the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and cancer risk, highlight current research on diet and cancer risk reduction including new research related to avocado consumption and cancer, as well as strategies to help increase fruit and vegetable consumption and other habits that help to mitigate cancer risk.  Tune into this episode with Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, CSO to learn about: ●       Gaps in awareness about the link between diet and cancer ●       New research about cancer prevalence and risk factors ●       Challenges and limitations in cancer/nutrition research ●       Risk reducti

Charcuterie boards have become very popular and are certainly a fun way to entertain guests – but did you ever think this creative concept might be a solution to healthy eating? Snack trays can be a fun way for kids and adults alike to explore new foods and flavors while making snack time (and even mealtime) less stressful and definitely more playful. This approach to feeding your family - or friends - encourages a healthy relationship with food, can help fill nutrient gaps, and can decrease food waste, too! Tune in to this episode with Frances Largeman-Roth, RDN, to learn about: ·       Snacking trends ·       Child nutrition insights ·       Why some parents are so stressed about feeding their kids ·       How a snack tray helps people try new foods ·       The “rules” of snack trays (hint: there are none!) ·       Practical tips for building a tray ·       Tips for a balanced, nutritious tray ·       The difference between a snack tray and meal tray ·       Considerations for building

Despite the extensive research available, there remains significant confusion amongst consumers regarding the health effects of soy on various population groups. In this episode, we delve into several misconceptions and examine the latest scientific findings on contentious issues including the relationship between soy and breast cancer, the impact of vegetable oils on cardiovascular disease risk, and the role of processed soy products in the diet. Tune in to this episode with guests Jill Castle, MS, RDN and Karen Collins, MS, RDN, CDN, FAND to learn about: ·       Four pervasive myths surrounding soy foods ·       Sensational headlines regarding seed oils, breast cancer, hormones and processed foods ·       Consumer and health professional insights about each myth ·       Current research on each myth ·       Practical takeaways and helpful resources for the public and health professionals Full shownotes, transcript and resources at:  https://soundbitesrd.com/273    

Pulses are the nutritionally dense, dry edible seeds of legumes including dry peas, beans, lentils and chickpeas. They are high in fiber, folate, potassium and plant protein, and contain several micronutrients such as iron and zinc. While many people may not be familiar with the term “pulses”, chances are they are familiar with the food itself. Nutritious, versatile and affordable, pulses are also a climate-friendly crop. This episode dives into all things pulses with a farmer/agricultural economist and a registered dietitian nutritionist.   Tune in to this episode to learn about: ·       what pulses are ·       what the difference is between pulses and legumes ·       why chickpeas are also called garbanzo beans ·       current intakes vs. recommended intakes ·       the nutritional profile of pulses ·       benefits of pulses beyond nutrition ·       tips for preparing pulses ·       swaps and recipes to try ·       what makes pulses a climate-friendly crop ·       what benefits farmers

New health, nutrition and weight loss trends are popping up daily on social media. Many of these fly-by-night trends are simply that, but a new study focusing on the platform TikTok found that these trends may have more of a hold on people than once thought. To expose the inaccurate information being extracted from TikTok, MyFitnessPal, the #1 nutrition and food tracking app, partnered with Dublin City University on a two-part research project called “Health and Nutrition Inaccuracies on TikTok”.  Part 1 looked at social media influencers and Part 2 looked at Gen Z TikTok users. Study findings ranged from determining that only about 2% of content being classified as accurate to Gen Z users trusting influencers more if they claim to be qualified dietitians. Tune in to this episode to learn about: ·       how and where Americans are getting their health information has changed ·       improving our digital literacy is necessary to make better choices ·       MyFitnessPal’s ‘Nutrition IQ’ surveys’ key them