Nutrition for Noobs: Nutrition Science, Plant Based Eating and Beginners Nutrition Tips

[As Michelle gets her ducks in a row as the newly-solo host, we'll dig deep into our past archives to bring you one of our most requested episodes. New episode coming in 2 weeks!]

Michelle dives into the science of hydration. She explores the varying recommendations on daily water intake, discusses the factors that influence individual hydration needs, and debunks common myths surrounding water consumption.

From understanding the difference between thirst and actual hydration needs to evaluating the impact of climate and activity levels on water requirements, this episode provides...

Could the “healthy” foods in your fridge be affecting your gut?

In this encore presentation of one of our most popular episodes, Michelle and Kevin unpack the surprising science behind food emulsifiers and what they may be doing to your gut microbiome and digestive health.

From polysorbate 80 and carrageenan to xanthan gum and carboxymethyl cellulose, they explore the latest research linking common food additives to gut disruption, inflammation, immune responses and chronic disease.

You’ll learn how emulsifiers work, the difference between natural and synthetic additives, what emerging research says about conditions like Crohn’...

What can a remote village in Sardinia teach us about living longer, and living better? In this episode, Michelle and Kevin explore the newly identified Blue Zone of Boletana, where women appear to have an extraordinary chance of reaching 100. They dig into what makes this community so unusual, from its predominantly plant-based diet and naturally active lifestyle to its strong family and social connections, while considering the possible role of genetics and culture.

The conversation also looks beyond individual habits to the bigger question: Can we actually create Blue Zone communities by changing the environments where people...

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have gone from relatively unfamiliar diabetes treatments to mainstream weight-loss drugs almost overnight. Kevin and Michelle unpack why these medications have become so popular, how GLP-1 receptor agonists work in the body, and what people should know before treating them like a quick-fix solution. They discuss appetite suppression, digestion, blood sugar regulation, potential side effects, muscle loss, nutritional adequacy, exercise, weight regain after stopping treatment, and the growing concern around counterfeit and unauthorized products. Michelle also explains why protein, fiber, micronutrients, hydration and resistance training become especially important when appetite is dramatically reduced.<...

Why do some nutrition messages seem to be everywhere while others struggle to be heard?Michelle and Kevin unpack the powerful marketing systems that influence what we believe about food.

They explore agricultural checkoff programs and levies, government-supported marketing, industry-funded research, and why the loudest nutrition messages aren't always the most evidence-based.

Along the way, they discuss the importance of reading research critically, supporting farmers while evolving our food systems, and becoming more aware of the forces shaping our everyday food choices.

Visit our site at https://nutritionfornoobs.com for resources, a comprehensive...

Is weight loss really just a matter of "calories in, calories out"? Listen as Michelle and Kevin dive into two landmark nutrition studies that challenge one of the most common beliefs about weight management.

They explore where calorie counting came from, why ultra-processed foods make us eat more without realizing it, and how food quality influences hunger, metabolism, and long-term success.

Along the way, they unpack the fascinating history of calories, from steam engines to modern nutrition science, and explain why whole foods make healthy eating easier, even when calories are the same.

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The Netherlands has updated its national dietary guidelines, and they may be among the most progressive in the world.

In this Summer Short, Michelle and Kevin explore the country's newly revised "Wheel of Five," which places greater emphasis on plant-based eating, provides clear weekly food targets, and considers both personal health and environmental sustainability.

From reducing red and processed meat to increasing legumes and offering practical tools like government-supported food swaps and meal planning apps, the new guidance goes beyond simply telling people to "eat healthier."

Join us as we discuss what makes...

Summer is all about simple, refreshing desserts that help you stay cool without turning on the oven.

Kevin and Michelle share easy, crowd-pleasing recipes perfect for backyard gatherings, family barbecues, book clubs, and lazy summer evenings. Kevin walks listeners through his surprisingly elegant homemade mango sorbet: a vibrant, make-ahead dessert made with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Michelle contributes her favourite tea popsicle ideas, including fruit teas, green teas, and refreshing hibiscus-based frozen treats.

Along the way, the conversation explores creative variations, presentation tips, summer entertaining, and the surprising connection between food...

Summer is peak produce season, and Michelle and Kevin are celebrating everything that makes local, seasonal food so special.

From roadside farm stands and farmers' markets to berry picking, apple orchards, and childhood memories of fresh-picked sweet corn, this episode explores the joy of reconnecting with where our food comes from. Michelle and Kevin discuss why seasonal fruits and vegetables often taste dramatically better than their out-of-season counterparts, how freshness can impact nutrient content, and why supporting local farmers benefits both communities and consumers.

The conversation highlights some of Canada's best summer produce, including strawberries...

Michelle and Kevin explore the connection between nutrition, skin health and sun exposure.

While sunscreen remains the most important tool for protecting your skin from UV damage, research suggests that a nutrient-rich diet can help improve your skin's natural resilience. Michelle explains how antioxidants, carotenoids, polyphenols, and other plant compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods may support skin health, reduce oxidative stress, and help the body recover from sun exposure.

The conversation also examines the potential impact of ultra-processed foods on inflammation and skin aging, why "eating the rainbow" matters, and how a...

Summer is here, and so are the questions: Do people with darker skin need sunscreen? Is sunscreen safe? Are chemical sunscreens harmful? And what about mineral sunscreens?

Michelle and Kevin separate sunscreen facts from fiction. Michelle shares a personal story about a severe sunburn during the Camino de Santiago and explains how her father's experience with skin cancer changed her perspective on sun safety.

Together, they explore what the global scientific evidence says about sunscreen effectiveness, common concerns about chemical ingredients, the differences between chemical and mineral sunscreens, and why proper application matters more than...

Michelle shares key takeaways from the 7th Annual Canadian Plant-Based Nutrition and Health Conference, including powerful research on how diet impacts cancer risk, recovery, and overall health. From the role of fiber in satiety to the real-world benefits of a whole food, plant-based diet, this episode highlights how small, sustainable changes can make a big difference.

You’ll also hear:

Perimenopause and menopause can feel confusing, overwhelming and often misunderstood. Michelle and Kevin welcome naturopathic doctor Dr Marianne Trevorrow for an in-depth, evidence-based conversation that cuts through the noise.

They unpack what perimenopause and menopause actually are, how to recognize early (and often overlooked) symptoms, and why so many people don’t realize what’s happening until it disrupts their daily lives. Dr Trevorrow also breaks down the history and misconceptions around hormone therapy, including the lasting impact of the Women’s Health Initiative study, and explains what current research really says about safety and effectiveness.

The...

In this refreshing pre-summer episode of Recipes for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle dive spoon-first into the world of gazpacho, with two wildly different takes on the classic chilled soup. Kevin brings the traditional tomato-forward “summer in a bowl” version packed with ripe farmer’s market tomatoes, garlic, cucumber, and fresh herbs, while Michelle counters with a surprisingly creamy and protein-rich pea gazpacho made from frozen peas and onions.

Along the way, they chat about:

“Forever chemicals” (PFAS) are everywhere, but how concerned should you really be?

Michelle and Kevin are joined by toxicologist Dr Deborah Keil to break down the science behind PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a group of persistent chemicals found in water, food packaging, cookware and more.

You’ll learn:

Margarine might seem like an ordinary kitchen staple, but its history is anything but boring. A listener question sent Michelle down a surprising rabbit hole that includes government bans, dairy industry lobbying, smuggling across Canadian borders, and even a literal “colour war” over whether margarine could be yellow.

What seems like a simple butter substitute has a surprisingly dramatic past. Margarine has sparked political fights, government bans, and even a black market. And just when it was celebrated as the healthier choice, science uncovered a twist that changed how we think about it entirely.

So is m...

Michelle and Kevin sit down with radiation oncologist Dr Zahra Kassam to unpack one of the most important, and personal, topics in health: the relationship between nutrition and cancer.

Dr Kassam is a radiation oncologist at the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre, Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto, co-founder of Plant-Based Canada, and co-author of Eating Plant-Based. With more than 30 years in medicine, she brings both clinical expertise and deep compassion to the conversation.

Together, they explore:

Grocery prices are up, budgets are tight, and consumers are more health-conscious than ever. So where does that leave us when it comes to organic produce, pesticide residues, and the popular “Dirty Dozen” list from the Environmental Working Group?

Michelle and Kevin dig into the pros, cons, and context behind the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists. Are strawberries really a toxic nightmare? Should you only buy organic? And what’s the real risk when it comes to pesticide residues in Canada and the U.S.?

Michelle breaks down:

Kevin and Michelle are feeling punchy after a long, dreary winter, and it shows. What starts as cold remedies (ginger, garlic, lemon, honey, and a serious kick of cayenne) turns into a fiery, flavour-packed conversation about one of Kevin’s favourite appetizers: Bang Bang Cauliflower.

In this episode, Kevin walks through his easy, three-step recipe for crispy, spicy cauliflower bites made with maple syrup, sambal oelek, and panko, perfect for the air fryer or oven. Michelle shares her own buffalo cauliflower variation using chickpea flour and a powerhouse spice blend inspired by Dr Greger’s approach to plan...

Are microwaves actually safe, or have we all been “nuking” our food for decades? Michelle dives into the surprising science, history, and health implications of microwave ovens, from Percy Spencer’s accidental candy-bar discovery to how modern microwaves really work.

Kevin and Michelle break down common microwave myths, explain the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, and explore whether standing near a microwave or eating microwaved food poses any real risk. They also examine nutrient retention across cooking methods, the truth about microwaves and cancer risk, acrylamide in starchy foods, and why ultra-processed meals, and their packaging, are th...

Tofu has a reputation problem: bland, mushy, or downright traumatic. No fear! Kevin and Michelle set out to demystify tofu once and for all. From silken tofu disasters to crispy, crave-worthy success stories, they break down everything beginners need to know about cooking tofu properly.

You’ll learn the different types of tofu (silken, soft, medium, firm, extra-firm, and pressed tofu), how water content affects texture, and exactly which tofu to use for stir fries, air fryers, smoothies, scrambles, soups, and desserts. Kevin shares his fail-proof shredded tofu recipe that even meat-eaters love, while Michelle shares her to...

The new 2025–2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines have ignited controversy, and for once, nutrition policy is trending. From an upside-down food pyramid stacked with red meat, butter, and full-fat dairy to confusing messaging on saturated fat, processed foods, and plant-based diets, many experts are asking: How did we get here?

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Matthew Nagra, Canadian naturopathic doctor, nutrition researcher, and science communicator, to break down what actually happened behind the scenes. We unpack the disconnect between the 20-member Scientific Advisory Committee and the nine-person review panel, the role of ideology and industry ties...

Are seed oils actually harmful, or is the internet just shouting louder than the science? In this myth-busting episode, Michelle and Kevin go deep into the evidence behind seed oils, saturated fats, omega-6 to omega-3 ratios, and the real health risks hiding in ultra-processed foods.

Michelle breaks down how different oils (canola, soybean, olive, corn) vary in fatty acid composition, why polyunsaturated fats consistently lower LDL cholesterol, and how studies often misinterpret outdated data from the 1960s that involved trans-fat-laden margarine. They also explore why anti–seed oil arguments often confuse mechanism with real-world outcomes, and how li...

In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, Michelle and Kevin sit down with physician, researcher, and global health advocate Dr Tushar Mehta to explore how our food system impacts human health, environmental sustainability, pandemic risk, and social justice.

Dr Mehta breaks down the evidence behind whole-food, plant-based and Eat-Lancet dietary patterns, clarifying what the science actually says about optimal nutrition, minimal animal-product consumption, and the role of processed foods. The discussion goes deep into zoonotic disease origins, antibiotic resistance, climate impacts, and what it will take to feed a projected 10 billion people by 2050 without compromising ecosystems, human dignity...

Curious about how to succeed on a vegan or plant-based diet? Michelle and Kevin break down the essential nutrients you need to thrive, including B12, zinc, magnesium and chromium, while highlighting why processed plant-based foods can sabotage your health. Learn practical tips on improving diet quality, optimizing nutrient absorption, and understanding common deficiencies that affect vegans and omnivores alike. Plus, discover the science behind supplementation.

Whether you're new to plant-based eating or a long-time vegan, this episode is packed with evidence-based advice to help you feel your best.

Key Topics Covered:

Kevin and Michelle uncover surprising nutrition facts hiding in plain sight. From noodles packed with 40% of your daily sodium to the truth behind fast-food veggie burgers like the new McVeggie.

They dive into the actual nutrition behind these burgers, explore the difference between “healthy” and “less harmful,” explore why ingredient lists can be misleading, and share how to make smarter food choices by simply turning over the label.

Whether you’re curious about plant-based options, tracking your sodium intake, or just trying to eat better, this episode will make you rethink what’s really in your favouri...

Dig deep into the world of grains to uncover the truth about gluten: what it is, which grains contain it, and whether you really need to avoid it. From wheat, barley, and rye to pseudo-grains like quinoa and buckwheat, Michelle explains how gluten functions as a protein and why celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and general sensitivity are very different things.

They also share affordable, plant-forward meal ideas and debate the deliciousness of sourdough bread (spoiler: it might be friendlier for some gluten-sensitive folks!). Plus, a flurry of food puns and dad jokes make this episode equal parts...

Learn about the “whole grain hierarchy” to uncover which grains are the most nutritious, and which ones are best kept as an occasional snack. (It's like a whole grain Game of Thrones this week!) From intact grains like quinoa, barley, and wild rice, all the way down to puffed rice cakes, they explain how processing impacts fiber, protein, and nutrient levels. Along the way, you’ll hear nostalgic breakfast cereal stories, practical cooking tips, and a few laughs about Muffets, Pringles, and dad jokes. If you’ve ever wondered whether whole wheat flour is really better, how long wild rice tak...

Let's reveal the hidden health risks of everyday ultra-processed foods, from childhood lunchbox staples like hot hogs, salami and bologna to the long-term impact on gut health, cancer risk, and overall wellness. Michelle breaks down why colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in North America, how diet plays a critical role in prevention, and why heart disease and cancer remain leading causes of death in the U.S. and Canada.

The hosts share practical tips on making healthier food choices, teaching kids to value nutritious meals, and general guidelines for categorizing types of carcinogenic...

Unlock the secrets of coffee, wellness, and nutrition as Michelle and Kevin dive deep with special guests Jenna Goodhand and Tomas Dobranski from Cafezia.

Explore the fascinating history of coffee, and discover how modern wellness coffees are transforming the way we drink our favourite morning beverage. Learn about the science behind brewing styles, cholesterol, antioxidants, and how small herbal enhancements can boost coffee’s benefits without altering flavour.

This episode blends coffee culture, science, and mindful consumption into a rich, insightful conversation. Perfect for coffee enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, and anyone looking to elevate their daily cu...

Michelle explores the science of chronobiology, the study of how our internal clocks impact metabolism, weight loss, gut health, and overall well-being. Michelle unpacks fascinating research showing that eating the same meals at different times of day can yield dramatically different results, and why syncing your eating habits with your circadian rhythm could be the missing piece in your health journey.

You'll also learn how time-restricted eating, early time-restricted feeding (eTRF), and meal timing impact everything from fat storage to memory. The duo tackles real-life challenges like jet lag, shift work, and how travel across time zones...

Surprise! To celebrate the 50th official episode of Nutrition for Noobs (coming tomorrow), we're dropping this special bonus, packed with two years' worth of behind-the-scenes outtakes, hilarious off-mic moments, and raw banter between your favorite co-hosts, Kevin and Michelle. From digestive hand gestures to cricket recipes, recording flubs, intro confusion, poop talk, and Muppet references, this is Nutrition for Noobs like you’ve never heard it before. (Well, maybe a bit.) Whether you're a longtime listener or brand new to the pod, this episode is a quirky celebration of health, humour, and the chemistry that makes this podcast a fa...

Michelle and Kevin explore the science and lifestyle strategies behind intermittent fasting, time-restricted eating, and the groundbreaking fasting mimicking diet (FMD) developed by Dr. Valter Longo. They dive into how ancient eating patterns influence modern health, discuss the ideal fasting window for longevity and weight loss, and examine why most of us eat far more frequently than our bodies evolved to handle.

Learn how time-restricted eating can boost metabolism, improve sleep, promote autophagy (gesundheit!), and support healthy aging. Michelle also introduces the research-backed FMD protocol for potentially reversing type 2 diabetes, fighting inflammation, and triggering cellular regeneration, all...

Looking for a healthier dessert that’s still rich, chocolatey, and satisfying? Kevin shares his perfected, egg-free, oil-free Mexican-inspired chocolate cake made with black beans, apples, dates, and dark chocolate.

Discover simple ingredient swaps for eggs and fat using pantry staples like applesauce, zucchini, and banana, and learn how to create delicious desserts without sacrificing texture or flavour. Perfect for anyone exploring vegan baking, plant-based recipes, or just trying to eat a little cleaner.

Ingredients:

Kevin and Michelle dive deeper into leaky gut syndrome, how it's linked to microplastics, and, most importantly, how to heal your gut naturally. Learn why small dietary and lifestyle changes can lead to big improvements in gut health, inflammation reduction, and overall wellness. Michelle shares science-backed insights on reversing gut damage, the role of anti-inflammatory foods, and how habits like exercise, hydration, and accountability coaching contribute to long-term healing.

Whether you're battling digestive issues, chronic fatigue, or just curious about improving your microbiome, this episode will empower you to take charge of your health—on...

Michelle uncovers the hidden health threats posed by microplastics in our food, water, packaging, and clothing. Learn how these invisible pollutants contribute to gut dysbiosis, leaky gut syndrome, autoimmune conditions, and chronic inflammation, and how they may even trigger anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline via the gut-brain axis.

Discover the critical role of short chain fatty acids, the dangers of synthetic materials, and the small lifestyle changes that can protect your health and the environment. If you care about your gut health, immune system, and mental well-being, this is a must-listen.

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In this refreshingly candid episode, Michelle and Kevin break the taboo and dive deep into a topic we all think about but rarely talk about: poop. Join us for a surprisingly informative (and entertaining) conversation that explores what your bowel movements can tell you about your gut health, immune function, and overall wellness.

Michelle, a self-proclaimed "poo evangelist," explains why stool consistency, colour, and frequency are key indicators of your internal health. From the impact of antibiotics on the microbiome to the ideal poop shape, texture, and evacuation experience, this episode covers it all...

Did you know that most Canadians, and people in developed countries, are severely deficient in dietary fibre (or fiber, for our American friends)? In this eye-opening episode, Michelle and Kevin dive deep into the importance of fibre for digestive health, metabolism, weight management, and disease prevention. Discover the difference between soluble fibre and insoluble fibre, why prebiotic fibre and resistant starches are crucial for a healthy gut microbiome, and how inadequate fibre intake is linked to chronic illnesses like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, colon cancer, and more.

Michelle explains why Health Canada's dietary fibre...

Michelle and Kevin dive into one of the most buzzworthy nutrition questions: chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp hearts – which one truly wins? Packed with seed puns and dad-joke flair, they serve up science‑rich nutrition insights that are as fun as they are informative.

Tune in to uncover:

Whether you’re a smoothie lover, inflammation fighter, or curious cook, this episode...

Kevin and Michelle simmer down to the core question: Is bone broth truly a nutritional superstar—or just a trendy fad? With their signature blend of curiosity, wit, and science, they crack open the broth world and pour out all the facts.

Tune in if you want to: