Dishing Up Nutrition

Fiber is having a moment, but it's much more than a trend. In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, registered dietitians Leah Kleintrot and Teresa Wagner explain why fiber is essential for healthy digestion, balanced blood sugar, gut health, appetite control, heart health, and long-term wellness. They break down the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber, how much you really need each day, and why most people fall far short of the recommended amount.
 
You'll also discover the best real food sources of fiber, practical ways to increase your intake without digestive discomfort, and why whole foods often beat processed "high-fiber" products. If you're looking for simple nutrition changes that can make a big impact on your health, this episode is a great place to start.

Looking for a healthy summer meal that actually keeps you full? In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, registered dietitian Teresa Wagner shares her favorite strategies for building high-protein salads that support steady energy, balanced blood sugar, and lasting satisfaction. She explains why many salads leave people hungry an hour later, how much protein you really need at a meal, and simple ways to create delicious, nutrient-dense salads using convenient ingredients.

Feeling bloated, puffy, or uncomfortable during the summer months? You're not alone. In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, Melanie Beasley and Britni Vincent explain why bloating and water retention often become more common during hot weather and how factors like dehydration, excess sodium, alcohol, summer treats, travel, and blood sugar swings can all contribute. They break down the difference between bloating, water retention, and actual body fat gain, while sharing practical strategies to help you feel lighter, more comfortable, and energized.

Looking for healthier snack ideas your kids will actually eat this summer? In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, registered dietitian Alyssa Krejci shares practical, kid-friendly snack ideas that support steady energy, better moods, hydration, and growing bodies.

From pool days and sports tournaments to summer camps and busy afternoons at home, Alyssa explains how to build balanced snacks with protein, healthy fats, and real food carbohydrates while reducing reliance on sugary snacks and drinks. She also shares simple strategies for making healthy foods more visible, accessible, and appealing to kids, plus fun ways to get children involved in snack prep and kitchen confidence.

Are today's kids facing more health challenges than previous generations? In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, Kara Carper and Brandy Buro explore the growing impact of ultra-processed foods on children's health and why nutrition habits formed early in life can influence health for decades to come. They discuss the rise in childhood obesity, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, mood disorders, digestive issues, and other chronic health concerns, while explaining how blood sugar balance, protein, healthy fats, and real food can support better energy, focus, mood, and long-term wellness. Parents will also walk away with practical, realistic strategies for helping children build healthier eating habits without perfection or pressure.