Sound Bites With Melissa Joy Dobbins

School-age children, including adolescents, fall short on consuming essential nutrients to support learning, activity and development. In fact, the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans highlights how many children and adolescents aren’t getting enough high-quality protein, iron, zinc, choline and vitamins B6 and B12. These nutrient deficiencies are especially alarming given the significant growth and development that happens during this life stage. When you consider this and the additional risks of hunger and the long term consequences of food insecurity and nutrient deficiencies, it becomes apparent that we need to change the assumptions, mindset and conversation around childhood hunger. Tune into this episode to learn about: Nutrition, hunger and social responsibility The prevalence of food insecurity and risk factors for childhood hunger How the pandemic and rising food costs are impacting families with school age children Why childhood/adolescence is a pivotal time for proper nutrition yet nutrient de

Digestive or “gut” health is a hot topic today and understandably so. The National Institutes of Health estimates that approximately 60-70 million people are affected by digestive diseases. Additionally, the science surrounding the microbiome and how our digestion can potentially affect other aspects of our health and wellbeing continues to grow steadily. While proper diagnosis is important to determine the best care plan for those suffering from a specific digestive disease, we do know there is a lot that can be done to support a healthy digestive system through our personal meal habits. Being more aware of how we eat, maintaining enough fiber and adding fermented foods, including those from the dairy aisle, are all ways to give back to our gut. During this episode you will hear from Dr. Bob Murray, MD, Pediatric Gastroenterologist and Amanda Sauceda, RDN, lecturer at California State University of Long Beach and Owner of the Mindful Gut, LLC, on pre and probiotics, lactose intolerance versus milk allergy an

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, or POTS, is the most common type of dysautonomia – a dysfunction of the nerves that regulate nonvoluntary body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure and sweating. POTS is characterized by symptoms in multiple organ systems and an abnormal increase in heart rate upon standing. Because POTS affects multiple organ systems, patients report a wide range of symptoms with approximately 90% reporting gastrointestinal distress. Front line management of POTS is diet and lifestyle, however medications may also be indicated. Tune into this episode with guest Cheryl Harris, MPH, RD, to learn about: Current research on dysautonomia and POTS Why POTS is often misdiagnosed and underdiagnosed Why POTS is associated and confused with anxiety, eating disorders and other The link between the autonomic nervous system and digestion Dietary considerations and recommendations including salt/sodium and fluid intake How some patients show a worsening of symptoms with high glycemic foo

The topic of food packaging is broad and complex, ranging from materials, functionality and sustainability to innovations, labeling and health claims. Tune into this episode with global R&D leader Dr. David Smith to learn about: Challenges and opportunities in food packaging The pros and cons of different food packaging materials The role of packaging in shelf life, decreasing food waste and other functions Packaging design to minimize waste, reducing “overpackaging” How packaging impacts shopping behavior and product satisfaction How consumer insights guide package innovations and trends How the pandemic impacted packaging trends and innovation What consumers can do to be better recyclers How companies are communicating with consumers about recycling The importance of understanding what your municipality offers and handles regarding recycling The clean label trend and tradeoffs Qualified health claims Full shownotes and resources at: https://soundbitesrd.com/222  

By the time dinnertime arrives, most of us are already experiencing a long day’s worth of decision fatigue. And if you’re like me, you’re always looking for that simple, yummy and healthy “go-to” recipe that will satisfy every family member and yet not require too much time in the kitchen or too many dishes to wash. Look no further because my friend, registered dietitian and author Jen Haugen, has solved the dinnertime dilemma for good with her new book “Dinner, Done!” I like to call this a “cookbook/workbook” because it is more than just a collection of recipes. In addition to the simple, tasty and healthy recipes, she shares her “forever dinner menu map” that literally puts an end to weekly meal planning. Tune into this episode to learn about: the “kitchen quiz” to help assess your individual needs and priorities family-friendly recipes that are fast and healthy the benefits of pressure cooking, air frying, smart grilling, one pot recipes and pizza night the forever dinner menu map that is a game changer f

It’s no secret that body image and self esteem are closely related and that many women (and men) feel dissatisfied with their body shape, size and/or weight. A person’s relationship with their body and with food can have a significant impact on quality of life. Body image disorders, eating disorders and disordered eating are too often the result of body dissatisfaction and chronic dieting. Tune in to this episode with guest Ilene Leshinsky, MSW, to learn about: the history and trends in weight and diet culture how a woman’s sizes relates to her “currency” the relationship between body image and weight, food and exercise why having “weight” as your primary focus keeps you stuck perspectives on whether intentional weight loss is healthy or not intuitive eating principles and how to begin implementing them staying on track with intuitive eating when it’s easier to rely on habits and autopilot how our bodies have innate wisdom that we can tap into to guide us on a healthful journey Full shownotes and resources

Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread globally, and not just in low- and middle-income countries. This is especially the case in population groups with increased needs and where diets are often inadequate in iron, zinc, folate, vitamin A, calcium, and vitamin B12. Current research is focusing on understanding the density of these micronutrients and their bioavailability across diverse foods. Tune in to this episode to learn about: how micronutrient deficiencies exist in every country in the world important concerns about dietary intakes in the U.S. and how they can be improved six specific micronutrients of public health concern strategies to achieve more diversity in our diets food sources that are rich in micronutrients we are often lacking the intersection of human health and planetary health how plant-based and animal-source foods have complementary nutrient profiles and contribute to healthy diets in different ways how all foods are capable of being produced sustainably when produced in the appropri

We often hear that dietary fat is bad for us, that there are good fats and bad fats, and that the ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 fats in our diets is important. However, current research on the topic is more complex and nuanced. This episode addresses questions regarding how much fat Americans are consuming, what fat intake requirements and recommendations are and the current research on omega 6 polyunsaturated fats and health outcomes. Tune in to this episode to learn about: Omega 3 vs omega 6 fats and the ratio of 3:6 Metabolic syndrome, adipose distribution and adiponectin what NAFLD is and why it’s important to address this condition dietary fats and inflammation research on PUFAs and health the role of oxylipins in fat metabolism and health the different types of dietary fat and common food sources fatty acid intake requirements and recommendations essential fatty acids, linoleic and linolenic acid data on U.S. fat intake how different types of fat intake impacts health outcomes Full shownotes and resour

Tune in to this episode to learn about: the many factors contributing to rising food prices trends in shopping habits tips for shopping healthy on a budget what consumers and retailers can do to decrease food waste meal planning and preparation resources how retailers are responding to consumer interest in health and wellness the role of the dietitian in the grocery store setting Full shownotes and resources at: https://soundbitesrd.com/217

The consumer mindset around health and wellness has shifted and expanded with consumers focusing more on preventative measures instead of reactionary approaches to support overall well-being. These changes in attitudes and behaviors provide an opportunity to explore the concept of satisfaction from eating, including the role of satiety and our emotional responses, as well as the impact on one’s relationship with food, body and overall health.  Tune in to this episode with guest Andrea Mathis, MA, RDN, LD to learn about: recent consumer insights about health management research on the relationship between nutrient intake, appetite and satiety how a combination of fat and fiber (found in foods like avocados) can promote feelings of satisfaction how a mindful eating approach can support health and wellness goals RDNs, DTRs, and CDCESs can earn 1.0 FREE CEU for listening to this podcast episode. This episode is sponsored by Fresh Avocados – Love One Today®  For more information and resources visit: https://bit.

Through the Protein PACT, the North American Meat Institute and partners across the supply chain are uniting in the largest-ever effort to strengthen animal protein’s contributions to the people, animals and climate of tomorrow. Committed to improving the sustainability of meat and poultry (including sustainable animal feed, corn and soy), the PACT has five focus areas: environment, health and wellness, animal welfare, labor and human rights, and food safety. Tune in to this episode to learn about the sustainability metrics and targets for these five areas: Environment – optimize contributions to healthy land, air and water Health & Wellness – provide wide variety of high-quality protein for balanced diets Animal welfare – provide the most humane care and raise healthy animals Labor & Human Rights – support a diverse workforce and ensure safe workplaces Food Safety – produce safe food without exception Full shownotes and resources at: https://soundbitesrd.com/215           

The topic of sweet taste and the relationship to diet and health is one that has been of interest to food and nutrition scientists for many years. To assist in reducing sugar consumption, some authoritative bodies currently recommend reducing the consumption of sweet-tasting foods and beverages, regardless of the source of the sweet taste (i.e., caloric or low-calorie sweeteners). These recommendations stem from concerns that human attraction to sweetness may be a potential risk for developing less healthy eating patterns. Despite the need to measure sweetness of the diet to help us further understand the relationship between nutrition and health and sweetness, currently there is no consensus method to measure the total sweetness of the diet. There are well-established sensory techniques in laboratory settings for individual foods, but agreement on the optimal approach for measuring the sweetness of the total diet is lacking, particularly for large-scale population-based studies. Recently a practical approach

Nearly twenty percent of adults (or 50 million) experienced a mental illness in 2019. One in four adults with a mental illness report an unmet need for treatment, and this number has not declined since 2011. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in American affecting 42.5 million U.S. adults, with major depression affecting 21 million U.S. adults. In addition, sleep is closely linked to mental and emotional health and has demonstrated connections to depression, anxiety and other conditions. Research into the potential benefits of cannabis therapy is ongoing and promising, with preliminary research suggesting benefits including improvements in pain, sleep, and anxiety disorders as well as various brain-related issues from headaches to inflammation to traumatic brain injuries. Tune in to this episode with Holistic Cannabis Practitioner and Registered Dietitian Janice Bissex to learn about: definitions of cannabis, CBD, THC, terpenes, anandamide, endocannabinoid system why the term “marijuana” i

Researchers continue to explore and build on existing knowledge regarding the role of the gut microbiome and food choices in the pathophysiology and management of numerous chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, and even mental health disorders. This episode addresses the impact of food choices in shaping the gut microbiome, including what nutrients feed the gut microbiome, and the current science on the gut microbiome’s impact on health outcomes and disease. Guests on this show include a renowned endocrinologist who has spent his career in diabetes care and research focused on the role of the gut in diabetes management, and a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist who is well versed in this science, nutrition management and the use of probiotics. Tune in to this episode to learn about: the gut microbiome’s impact on various chronic diseases the impact of proper nutrition in shaping the gut microbiome, a

Changing the Dialogue Around Science From research related to COVID-19 to more sustainable foods, scientists are developing amazing new ways to build and support a healthier planet. But if the vast majority of the world’s population cannot access and benefit from these incredible innovations, their value is limited. Dr. Michelle McMurry-Heath, the head of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, tells us that the distribution of scientific progress is the social justice issue of our age. She discusses how biotechnology can help solve food safety, sustainability and food access issues – and the importance of delivering these advancements into people’s lives no matter where or how they live. Tune in to this episode with guest Dr. Michelle McMurry-Heath to learn about: the intersection of science and social justice the important role that science, biotechnology and innovation play in human health, environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture broadening access to scientific progress so more people fro

All parents want what is best for their child and that includes growing up strong, healthy, and enjoying a wide variety of foods. However, children may go through a period of “picky eating” which can start at any age, but it is most common in toddlers. The introduction of new tastes, textures, smells and temperatures can be frightening to a child. It’s important to provide parents with strategies and reassurance that picky eating is part of normal development. It’s also important for health professionals to assess if picky eating is influencing weight changes, nutrient deficiencies or ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) which is an extreme form of picky eating that impacts normal development. Tune in to this episode with guest Dr. Elizabeth Zmuda to learn about: the definition of picky eating how eating is learning, exploring and building skills responsive feeding and feeding with the 5 senses how parents bring their own stories and histories to the dinner table just because a child spits out a

Tackling Wellness One Step at a Time: Interconnectedness of Exercise, Nutrition, Sleep & Social Connection According to the CDC, about 80 percent of deaths from premature heart disease and stroke are preventable with lifestyle changes. When Ohio-based cardiologist Dr. David Sabgir had the realization that only 5 percent of his patients were meeting physical activity recommendations and he wasn’t enacting meaningful behavior change, he decided to change his approach. Listen in for an inspiring discussion about how he started an international movement to get people exercising more. Learn what inspired him and why he also incorporates heart-healthy foods like avocados, getting enough sleep, and social connection in his call to action.   Tune in to this podcast with guest Dr. David Sabgir to learn about: How an action plan that includes physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and social connection parameters can address preventable risk factors of cardiovascular disease. The nutritional attributes that make cer

There is a difference between animal welfare and animal rights. The term “animal welfare” refers to an animal’s current state of being, including whether the animal is healthy, calm and well-nourished. In contrast, the idea of “animal rights” is that animals should enjoy rights analogous to those we have as humans – including that they should not be used for food, regardless of how well they are cared for. Tune in to this episode with guest Hannah Thompson-Weeman to learn about: The many differences between animal welfare and animal rights Common misunderstandings about animal rights organizations Examples of animal rights organization activities such as pressure campaigns How the animal ag community handles and responds to these tactics How the public and health professionals can understand the animal ag industry better Where people can access accurate, balanced information about animal agriculture   Full shownotes and resources at: https://soundbitesrd.com/208    

History, Consumption & Dietary Guidance on Sugar, Sugars and Added Sugars “Despite claims and concerns that we are eating more sugar than ever before, consumption of added sugars is actually on a 30% decline in the last 20 years. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of calories per day, and we’re at 12.9% right now. Back in 1910 we were at 11% - probably because of all the various functions that sugar has in food beyond sweetness.” – Courtney Gaine, PhD There are many common myths and misunderstandings about sugar such as: sugar causes hyperactivity and diabetes, reducing sugar in foods always reduces the caloric content, and Americans consume more added sugars now than ever before. But there are many other narratives about sugar and added sugars that are taken at face value or taken out of context that warrant a closer look. Tune in to this episode with guest Dr. Courtney Gaine to learn about: The difference between sugar, sugars and added sugar

Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating & Dysfunctional Eating Behaviors When you hear the words “eating disorder” most people get an image in their mind of what that means and what that “looks” like. Unfortunately, that can lead to many missed opportunities to help people. If we use different terminology, such as disordered eating or dysfunctional eating behaviors, we can appreciate the fact that anyone who eats can have problematic eating behaviors. They don’t even have to rise to the level of an eating disorder to be an issue. There's no reason that someone couldn't or shouldn't get help just because they don't meet certain criteria or fit a certain stereotype. In addition, this approach can feed into some outdated treatment for eating disorders if the treatment is based solely on the outward symptoms. There are many different origins of disordered eating that can and should be taken into consideration during evaluation and treatment. Tune in to this episode with eating disorder expert Jessica Setnick to l