Dishing Up Nutrition

In this final episode of our 3-part series on menstrual health, we’re diving into the later menstruating years - aka perimenopause. If your once-predictable cycle has become irregular, heavier, shorter, or totally unpredictable, you’re not alone - and you’re not imagining things. Licensed nutritionists Kara Carper and Leah Kleinschrodt unpack what’s actually happening with your hormones during perimenopause, why symptoms like sleep struggles, mood swings, and heavier periods can show up, and how nutrition can help you feel more balanced through the transition.

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

Ever feel like life just gets in the way of eating healthy? You’re not alone. In this Ask a Nutritionist episode, licensed dietitian Amy Crum breaks down the biggest challenges- emotional eating, cravings, lack of time - and shares real-life tips to stay on track. From quick meal ideas to smart planning for social events, Amy's got practical, doable advice to help you eat well, even when life gets chaotic.

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

Ever feel like life just gets in the way of eating healthy? You’re not alone. In this Ask a Nutritionist episode, licensed dietitian Amy Crum breaks down the biggest challenges- emotional eating, cravings, lack of time - and shares real-life tips to stay on track. From quick meal ideas to smart planning for social events, Amy's got practical, doable advice to help you eat well, even when life gets chaotic.

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

Thinking about meeting with a dietitian but not sure what to expect? In this episode, licensed dietitians Melanie Beasley and Britni Vincent break down what really happens in a nutrition appointment - from how dietitians are trained, to the common reasons people come to see us, to what makes our approach different from quick-fix diets and generic plans.

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

Got young athletes in your life? In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition’s Ask a Nutritionist, Registered Dietitian Teresa Wagner tackles a great question from a mom wondering how to fuel her active teens. Teresa dives into what real food nutrition looks like for young athletes - from muscle-building proteins and energizing carbs to hormone-supporting healthy fats. She also shares snack ideas, hydration tips, and smart supplement options (plus a few not-so-great trends she’s seeing on the sidelines!). Whether your kid is on the field, in the gym, or just loves to move, this episode is packed with practical, doable ways to help them feel and play their best.

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

In this informative episode, registered dieticians Britni Vincent and Brandy Buro explain why your gut microbiome—home to trillions of microbes—impacts everything from digestion and immune function to mental health and even weight management. Learn how to identify signs of poor gut health beyond just digestive symptoms, including skin issues, joint pain, anxiety, and food cravings. The hosts share practical strategies for resetting your gut through real food choices, key probiotic-rich foods, and therapeutic supplements.

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

On this week's episode of Ask a Nutritionist, our dietitian Britni Vincent tackles the timely topic of enjoying brunch without suffering from that dreaded post-meal fatigue. As popular brunch holidays like Easter and Mother's Day approach, Britni shares the secret to sidestepping a food coma through balanced portions and mindful eating, and will show you how to craft a balanced brunch plate that keeps you energized throughout the day and prevents that post-brunch crash. Tune in to our latest episode for a nourishing look at keeping your meals light and lively!

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025

Fatty liver is more common than you think—and more serious than many people realize. In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, dietitians Leah and Theresa break down what fatty liver is, what causes it (hint: it’s not just alcohol), and how to actually reverse it through nutrition. Learn what foods are hard on your liver—and which real foods support healing. This episode offers practical, food-first strategies to protect and repair your liver.

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

Ever wonder what to do after a round of antibiotics wrecks your gut? In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, Leah, a registered dietitian with Nutritional Weight & Wellness, explains how to restore balance in your gut microbiome after antibiotics—starting during the prescription and continuing after. Learn which probiotics help, how food can support healing, what to avoid (hint: sugar), and why gut TLC matters more than ever.

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

Are you constantly reaching for that morning coffee? Wondering if your caffeine habit is helping or hurting you? Whether you're a coffee lover, struggling with caffeine addiction, or simply curious about how caffeine impacts your body, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. Learn how to break free from caffeine dependency and find more sustainable ways to energize your day.

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

Are sugar alcohols actually healthy? In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, Leah breaks down what sugar alcohols are, how they affect digestion, and whether they really belong in a real food diet. If you’re wondering about ingredients like xylitol or erythritol—or just trying to make smarter sweetener choices—this one’s for you!

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

Join us for part 2 of our special Dishing Up Nutrition series about the connection between nutrition and menstrual health! In this episode, registered dietitians Leah and Teresa discuss evidence-based approaches for endometriosis, PCOS, and PMS. Learn how real food nutrition can reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar, and support hormone metabolism. They share practical dietary strategies, supplement recommendations, and success stories to help women find relief from menstrual cycle symptoms.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition's "Ask a Nutritionist" segment, licensed dietitian Brandy Buro offers comprehensive advice on preventing and managing kidney stones through nutrition. Whether you've experienced painful kidney stones in the past or want to avoid them in the future, this episode provides practical, evidence-based strategies to protect your kidney health.

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

Looking for natural ways to manage ADHD symptoms? This episode explores the powerful connection between what you eat and how your brain functions. Join nutritionists Kara and Brandy as they discuss how food dyes, sugar, and gluten can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms while sharing practical nutrition strategies that actually help.  Whether you're managing your own ADHD or supporting a child, this episode offers actionable tips to make healthier choices without feeling overwhelmed. Tune in for natural solutions that work!

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

Craving something sweet but don't want the sugar crash? In this episode, dietitian Brandy Buro shares what nutritionists actually eat when they want treats! Discover guilt-free, delicious recipes like the "no-sugar Snickers bar," creamy fruit "nice cream," and decadent dark chocolate combinations that won't spike your blood sugar or trigger more cravings. Learn the simple secret to satisfying sweets: balancing real-food carbs with healthy fats and protein. These nutritionist-approved indulgences are quick to make, use ingredients you probably already have, and taste absolutely amazing.

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

Could a compound from certain plants be the key to a healthier metabolism and weight control? Join our licensed dieticians Leah and Brandy as they unravel the science behind berberine, its role in improving insulin sensitivity, and its potential in weight management, as they offer a unique perspective on natural health solutions.

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

Can you really improve food sensitivities? Is it safe to take probiotics and glutamine long-term? Learn about the differences between food allergies and sensitivities, how to support your intestinal lining, and the role of supplements in maintaining a healthy microbiome.

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2025

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), more than half of the population is affected by diabetes or prediabetes. In this episode, we’ll answer your questions about diabetes, explaining what it is and outlining the different types, including type 1, type 2, gestational diabetes, and prediabetes. We’ll dive into the science behind the bodily processes that contribute to the development of these various forms of diabetes. Additionally, we’ll discuss symptoms, which can differ between men and women, the tests you should ask your doctor about, and the potential complications of unmanaged or untreated diabetes. We’ll also share nutritional tips to help lower your glucose levels and maintain a healthy blood sugar balance, reducing your risk of developing diabetes or supporting the management of an existing diagnosis.

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

Confused about the difference between cholesterol and fats? Overwhelmed by talk about "good" and "bad" cholesterol? You're not alone! Teresa Wagner, one of our registered and licensed dieticians, is here to help demystify these dietary components, untangle these long-standing diet myths and explain why not all cholesterol is "bad" - and help explain how consuming the right fats can support your well-being.

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2025

Are you or have you experienced irregular cycles or severe period pain? Join us as we kick off a series of special Dishing Up Nutrition episodes about the connection between nutrition and menstrual health! In this episode, we lay the groundwork for a healthy, balanced menstrual cycle, why it is important for our health, and how food and lifestyle choices play roles in our monthly hormonal and physical rhythms. We will discuss the reasons for an irregular period, what kinds of pain and discomfort during your menstrual cycle are abnormal, and how inflammation plays a role in our cycle. And we offer ideas of how transitioning to real whole foods and possibly eliminating foods can help you have a more balanced menstrual cycle.

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

Hemoglobin is an important, iron-rich protein found in our red blood cells, responsible for transporting oxygen throughout our bodies. In this episode, registered dietitian Britni Vincent shares the causes and impact of low hemoglobin, particularly when linked to iron deficiency. She discusses how to approach this common issue and offers guidance on how to manage it effectively with the help of your healthcare team. Tune in this week for an insightful, educational discussion on how to better understand your body’s needs and improve your health.

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2025

To continue our conversation on National Heart Month, we’re going to be talking all about women’s heart health in today’s show. Heart disease is the #1 cause of death for women. In this episode, our dietitians will give a basic overview: what does heart health and heart disease actually mean, and how can nutrition play a role? Tune in if you’ve been diagnosed with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugars, or know someone who has been diagnosed with heart disease or has had a heart attack or stroke. We’ll share lifestyle and nutrition tips to protect your heart.

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

Looking to diversify your healthy fats? We'll observe American Heart Month with nutritionist Brandy Buro as she discusses two often-overlooked options: ghee and tallow. Learn about their origins, cooking properties, and health benefits, plus get practical tips for choosing and using these traditional fats in your kitchen.

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

Heart disease strikes men 10-15 years earlier than women - but conventional medical advice may be outdated. Join licensed nutritionist Kara Carper and registered dietitian Melanie Beasley as they reveal the surprising truth about cholesterol, saturated fat, and heart disease prevention. Learn about essential testing, risk factors, and evidence-based dietary solutions that could save lives, get practical nutrition tips, and discover the unexpected connection between erectile dysfunction and heart health that every man needs to know.

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

February is American Heart Month, which is a time to raise awareness of heart disease and give tips for prevention. Heart disease is the number one cause of death for both women and men in the United States. In this episode, we’ll focus specifically on men and heart disease. We’ll discuss the most common type of heart disease, the average age that men experience cardiac incidents versus women, risk factors for men, and which foods will support your heart and cardiovascular system. There are many myths and misunderstandings in the health and nutrition community when it comes to heart health, so we’ll cover those too to make sure you have a great plan to protect your heart health.

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

In this episode of "Dishing Up Nutrition's Ask a Nutritionist" series, registered dietitian Brandy Buro explains what it means to have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and provides practical dietary solutions. She discusses the symptoms and complications of hyperthyroidism, including Graves' disease, and offers detailed guidance on beneficial dietary changes—from eliminating gluten to managing iodine intake. Listeners will learn about important nutrients, therapeutic supplements, and specific food recommendations that can help manage hyperthyroid conditions naturally, alongside medical treatment.

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2025

Do you ever feel like the stress in your life just won’t let up? Do you feel these effects of stress on your health? Do you feel exhausted all the time you’re your brain feeling tired but wired by bedtime? If this sounds like you, today’s episode is for you! We’re talking about cortisol—the stress hormone—and how it affects your energy, weight, mood, and overall health. We’ll be answering questions like What causes high cortisol? Can high cortisol cause weight gain? And What can I do about it? If you’re feeling tired but wired, gaining stubborn belly fat, or more anxious than usual, you’re not alone—and cortisol could be to blame.

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

Is allulose the next big thing in sugar alternatives, or just another health fad? In this episode, we’re breaking it all down—what allulose is, how it affects blood sugar, and whether it’s actually a good option for you. We’ll cover the benefits, potential downsides, and what to look for when shopping for allulose. If you’re curious about sweetening your foods without the sugar spike, this episode is for you!

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2025

Join us today for a very special guest interview with one of our longtime clients Linda! She’s worked with our founder, Dar Kvist, for many years to support herself through managing a multiple sclerosis diagnosis. Listen in as our dietitian Leah chats with Linda on how she has been able to incorporate real food into her life for the long haul and the ways she maintains her health for the best quality of life through food and supplements.

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

Ever wonder if your thyroid might be why you’re feeling tired, cold, or just “off”? Our registered and licensed dietician Brandy Buro breaks down everything you need to know about hypothyroidism in a super simple and relatable way. From common symptoms to the tests you actually need, plus the foods and nutrients that can make a difference, Brandy’s got you covered. If you’ve been struggling with hypothyroidism, this episode is packed with tips to help you start feeling better—naturally! Don’t miss it!

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2025

We are deep into the cold winter here in Minnesota where dry skin starts to become a problem. Check your hands and heels before jumping into this episode! There are helpful things we can do externally to help support our skin through these drier months or if you live in a drier climate, but often the INTERNAL environment within us gets overlooked. Join registered dietitians Teresa and Leah as they discuss ways to hydrate (and how electrolytes can help!), why healthy fat is important to the lipid matrix in the outer layer of your skin, how to incorporate healthy fat through food and supplements into your routine, how omega-3s and omega-6s impact your skin, and other nutrients to consider that help with skin hydration and vibrancy.

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

Fast food is everywhere and you don't always have time to treat yourself to a healthy, well-prepared meal - but convenience doesn't have to mean you're stuck eating unhealthy food! Join registered and licensed dietician Teresa Wagner and discover the smart food choices hiding in fast food chains and gas stations, wherever you may be.

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2025

There is a biochemical reason why you might be feeling down or anxious and we’re going to be talking about why that is and how to get back to feeling good. In this episode we’ll be covering sugar’s addictive properties and how it can relate to mood disorders like depression. Registered dietitians Leah and Brandy will discuss sources of sugar, why it’s addictive, how it impacts your brain and inflammation levels, how to handle sugar withdrawal, and ways to reduce your sugar intake for better moods.

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025

Are you struggling with acne? It might be time to look at your diet! Tune into our latest episode of Ask a Nutritionist and join our very own Melanie Beasley, registered and licensed dietician, to understand how dairy, processed foods, and more could be impacting your skin health, and how nutritional changes can lead to glowing skin!

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2025

With high protein diets getting a lot of attention these days, we’ve received a question from a listener (that we also get in the nutrition counseling room) about digestive changes: “I recently upped my protein intake, but now I’m dealing with constipation. Any suggestions to help?” This is common, but constipation doesn’t need to be your new normal! There are simple solutions to help you get back on track if you are noticing being more constipated since increasing your protein. In today’s episode, we’ll cover why you might want to increase your protein, signs and symptoms of constipation, and tips to ensure you’re having one bowel movement every day.

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2025

How does sugar affect the aging process? Join Britni Vincent on this week's episode of Ask Nutritionist to fight that aging from the inside out, learn about sugar's hidden and inflammatory effects - and how reducing sugar with a few simple diet swaps can improve your health, enhance your skin radiance and boost your energy.

Transcribed - Published: 2 January 2025

Are you a resolutions or goal person? As we jump into 2025 are you brainstorming, planning, or dreaming about how you want your year to look or what changes to make personally, professionally, emotionally, or health-wise? Today in our show, we’re going to tap into some of that energy of making traditional New Year’s resolutions and put a different spin on it: anti-resolutions! We tend to see an “all-or-nothing” mentality when it comes to making nutrition goals, so here are some ideas on simple practices that make a big impact and are likely to stick for longer.

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2024

Are you looking to simplify your time in the kitchen without compromising that healthy lifestyle? Join registered and licensed dietician Brandy Buro as she reveals her top-tier kitchen hacks, essential tools and appliances in this latest episode of Ask a Nutritionist!

Transcribed - Published: 26 December 2024

After trying to lose weight in the past without much success, Cheryl joined our Nutrition 4 Weight Loss Foundations program, took the ongoing support classes, participating in our cooking classes, and worked with our dietitians. Two years later, she’s joining us on our podcast with her dietitian Teresa to share her story of achieving AND maintaining significant weight loss… and even better… finding peace with food, feeling good, and improving her health markers. Tune in to this episode to hear Cheryl and Teresa talk about the before, what she did to lose the weight, and what she’s doing now to enjoy and keep her health for the long haul.

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024

Did you know what’s on your plate could be making your back pain worse—or helping it heal? In this episode, we uncover the surprising link between nutrition and back pain relief, sharing the best foods to eat and the ones to avoid for lasting comfort.

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2024

One of our most frequently asked questions on our website is: what are the symptoms of not digesting food properly? Undigested food is a symptom of poor digestion, so it’s on the top of people’s minds because of the uncomfortable digestive issues they experience daily. In today’s episode, we’ll talk about signs and symptoms of undigested food and what to do about them. We’ll address the function of all of your digestive organs, overall gut health, and medical conditions affecting the lower intestinal tract, as well as lifestyle factors like mindfulness practices while eating and ways to make improvements through simple changes.

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024

Charley horses can strike at the worst times—like in the middle of the night! Join registered and licensed dietician Britni Vincent on this week's episode of Ask a Nutritionist as she uncovers the root causes of muscle cramps and shares practical tips to keep them at bay.

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2024

Hosting a gathering can often feel stressful and overwhelming. Even if you’re not hosting a holiday meal, what if a family member, friend, or colleague invites you to a party and asks you to bring a dish? You may be wondering, “What should I bring? What if someone attending has a food sensitivity or allergy? How will I keep my dish warm (or cold) once I arrive?” In this episode, our nutritionists join forces with our chef to give you some tips and recipe ideas to help you feel less overwhelmed if you are hosting in your home or if you are assigned to bring a dish to a gathering. We’re keeping it healthy and simple for a festive holiday season!

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2024

Get inspired once again, this holiday season! Join registered dieticians Brandy Buro and Britni Vincent as they share their hand-picked wellness gift ideas in this week's episode of Ask a Nutritionist. Tune in to the second of this special two-part series and discover even more ideas for holiday gifts to show your loved ones that you care.

Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2024

No matter what precautions we take, we still might end up fighting off a pesky cold or flu bug this time of year. That’s why we want to help you be prepared to handle whatever comes your way this cold and flu season using real food nutrition. In this episode, we’re going to be focused on what to eat when you have the flu, easy recipe ideas to keep it simple, what foods to avoid to reduce your body’s stress when you’re sick, and a few key supplements if you’d like to keep them stocked in your medicine cabinet.

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2024

Unwrap wellness this holiday season! Join registered dieticians Brandy Buro and Britni Vincent as they share their hand-picked wellness gift ideas - from kitchen essentials to nourishing snacks - in this week's episode of Ask a Nutritionist. Tune in to the first of this special two-part series and get inspired to find ways to bring joy and health to your loved ones!

Transcribed - Published: 28 November 2024

In this episode, we tackle a dietitian’s wish list when it comes to getting your labs drawn! Registered and licensed dietitians Leah and Teresa go over common annual lab tests, what the numbers mean, and where you want them to be for optimal health. They cover tests like blood sugar, vitamin D, cholesterol, thyroid, and iron. Sign into your myChart or health portal to follow along or bookmark this episode for the next time you get your results back!

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024

For a long time, we've believed that full-fat dairy products were bad for you. But are they really the enemy? Join registered and licensed dietician Amy Crum as she dives into the often-misunderstood topic of full-fat dairy products and sorts out fact from fiction. Discover why and how these fats are beneficial, crucial for health, how they can aid in weight management, and the importance of choosing quality dairy products on this week's episode of Ask a Nutritionist!

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2024

Much of the spotlight in nutritional science is focusing on healing the gut and supporting the gut microbiome, meaning all of the little bugs that live in your intestinal tract. Your gut bacteria and the integrity of your intestinal tissues influence all areas of your health. In this episode, our dietitians will be discussing why probiotics can be an important tool for overall health, what the different strains of probiotics are good for, and how to make sure you’re taking the right one for you. They will cover food sources of probiotics as well as several types of supplement options we’ve seen successful in our clinical practice.

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2024

Can prediabetes be reversed? Does weight loss affect blood glucose levels? On this week's episode of Ask a Nutritionist, registered and licensed dietician Britni Vincent addresses several common questions about blood sugar management. Whether you're managing prediabetes, working on your weight, or simply aiming for better health, tune in to learn all about the small lifestyle changes you can make that can add up to a big difference.

Transcribed - Published: 14 November 2024