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Sound Bites A Nutrition Podcast

Sound Bites A Nutrition Podcast

Melissa Joy Dobbins, MS, RD, CDE · Melissa Joy Dobbins

319 episodesEN

Show overview

Sound Bites A Nutrition Podcast has been publishing since 2015, and across the 11 years since has built a catalogue of 319 episodes, alongside 9 trailers or bonus episodes. That works out to roughly 250 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a fortnightly cadence.

Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 41 min and 55 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. It is catalogued as a EN-language Health & Fitness show.

The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed yesterday, with 8 episodes already out so far this year. Published by Melissa Joy Dobbins.

Episodes
319
Running
2015–2026 · 11y
Median length
48 min
Cadence
Fortnightly

From the publisher

Hosted by award-winning Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Melissa Joy Dobbins, the Guilt-Free RD - "because food shouldn't make you feel bad!" Join Melissa's conversations with a variety of experts on topics ranging from fad diets to farming and gain credible information to help you make your own, well-informed food decisions based on facts, not fear. For more information visit www.SoundBitesRD.com.

Latest Episodes

View all 319 episodes

310: Healthy Convenience: How to Select Nutrient-Rich Frozen Foods – Maya Feller

May 13, 202646 min

309: The Dietitian Coach Approach, Insurance Changes & New Opportunities – Jenny Westerkamp

Apr 28, 202650 min

308: Social Media, Food Science & the Food Industry: Getting from Fear to Facts – Hydroxide

Apr 15, 20261h 3m

Ep 307307: GLP-1 Weight Loss: Microdosing, Mental Load & the Maintenance Phase - Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD

Gain Valuable Insights from a GLP-1 Expert and User Cozy Earth coupon code, full shownotes, transcript, and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/307 In this episode, we explore GLP-1 weight loss medications, including emerging conversations around microdosing, the "mental load" of weight management, and what it really takes to maintain weight loss long term. Hear expert insights on how these medications work, what happens after weight loss, and practical strategies to support sustainable results. Whether you're considering GLP-1 medications, currently using them, or supporting patients or clients, this evidence-based conversation helps cut through hype, misinformation, and confusion. Tune in to this episode to learn about: personal insights from a GLP-1 user who is also a dietitian how GLP-1 medications work new meds in the pipeline including oral versions scams and frauds – meds that don't work from patches to certain pills pros and cons of compounded meds the difference between "food noise" and "mental load" the microdosing trend – what is it, does it work, what's the controversy GLP-1 foods – what are they and where are they key mistakes to avoid how to emphasize protein, fiber and fluids when feeling full weird side effects and unexpected benefits potential nutrient deficiencies and recommended supplements considerations for long-term weight loss maintenance the evolving role of the dietitian in patient care how increased access is often hand in hand with decreased care resources for health professionals and the public

Mar 25, 20261h 5m

Ep 306306: Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Why EVOO is Best & How to Use It - Dr. Mary Flynn & Leandro Ravetti

Full shownotes, transcript, resources and free CEU here: https://soundbitesrd.com/306 Commercial Support has been provided by Cobram Estate This podcast episode discusses the nutritional differences between extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and other grades of olive oil and how those differences impact health outcomes. Listeners will learn how olives are harvested, how EVOO is made, and what the science says about EVOO and the Mediterranean Diet. Questions such as what to look for on the label, if smoke point is something to consider when cooking and how much to consume per day are answered. Whether you're looking to debunk common myths, understand the latest research, or get practical tips for recommending healthy fats, this episode delivers evidence-based insights and real-world tips that will transform your approach to dietary oils. Tune in to this episode to learn about: The important differences between extra virgin and other olive oil Specific polyphenols (or "biophenols") unique to EVOO what to look for when choosing the highest quality EVOO the research on the Mediterranean Diet and EVOO chronic disease risk factors that may be improved with olive oil the new DGA recommendations related to olive oil and other fats if smoke point is something to worry about or not how to store olive oil to maximize health attributes the minimum daily amount of olive oil recommended to realize health benefits and how long it takes to see results practical and delicious ways to incorporate EVOO into your daily diet resources for health professionals and the public Click here to earn 1.0 FREE CEU for listening to this podcast episode. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Why EVOO is Best & How to Use It - Dr. Mary Flynn & Leandro Ravetti awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration's CPEU Prior Approval Program.

Mar 11, 202650 min

Ep 305305: What's in Your Freezer? The Science, Myths & Benefits of Frozen Foods – Jennie Norka

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/305 Frozen foods are having a moment – and the science, policy, and nutrition research behind them is more nuanced than most people realize. In this episode, we take a fresh (and frozen) look at how freezing works, why it matters for nutrition, and how frozen foods fit into today's evolving dietary guidance and food systems. From debunking persistent myths to exploring how frozen fruits and vegetables can support healthier eating patterns, reduce food waste, and improve access to nutrient-dense foods, this conversation connects the dots between research, real-world eating habits, and public health programs. We also dive into emerging policy efforts and pilot programs that recognize frozen produce as a powerful tool for improving food security and diet quality—especially for communities using SNAP and nutrition incentive programs. If you're curious about how frozen foods stack up nutritionally, practically, and sustainably, this episode offers a timely, evidence-based perspective. Tune in to this episode to learn about: the science behind the freezing process how and why foods are frozen the benefits of frozen foods common myths about frozen foods what drives shoppers to purchase frozen foods how frozen foods fit in the context of evolving nutrition science and dietary guidelines nutritional equivalency of frozen foods compared to fresh or home prepared foods innovative ways to include frozen foods into a healthy diet how frozen produce can improve fruit and vegetable consumption how the frozen food industry supports food waste reduction GusNIP pilot to integrate frozen produce into the nutrition incentive program for SNAP participants SHOPP Act legislation that ensures frozen produce is represented in the Produce Prescription Program resources for health professionals and the public

Feb 25, 202653 min

Ep 304304: SNAP, School Meals, New DGAs: What's Changing & Why It Matters – Dr. Sara Bleich

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/304 Federal nutrition programs impact the lives of tens of millions of Americans each year, yet they are often misunderstood, politicized, or reduced to headlines without context. This episode unpacks what federal nutrition assistance programs actually do, why they matter, and how recent policy shifts are reshaping the nutrition safety net. This conversation cuts through myths and confusion to explore how nutrition policy plays out in real life, for real people. We dig into the science, the policy decisions, and the downstream health implications, along with what health professionals and the public can do moving forward. Tune in to this episode to learn about: An overview of federal nutrition assistance programs and who they serve The evolution from "food insecurity" to the broader concept of "nutrition security" The steepest rollback of nutrition assistance in decades Common myths about SNAP—and what the evidence actually shows The elimination of SNAP-Ed and why nutrition education matters The Thrifty Food Plan and how it determines benefit levels The role of school meals, including how many children rely on them and why they are critical How the newly released Dietary Guidelines for Americans shape federal nutrition programs What comes next: the public health implications of current policy changes Practical calls to action for registered dietitians, nutrition professionals, and the general public Resources for health professionals and the public

Feb 4, 202641 min

Ep 303303: New DGAs: The Good, The Bad & The Upside Down – Alex Turnbull

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/303 The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans were released on January 7, 2026 by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins. These new guidelines state that they had concerns with the DGAC report because it framed it's analysis through a health equity lens and therefore disregarded most of the report instead relying on their own independent report. Tune in to this episode to learn about: · An overview of the new DGAs · The new upside down pyramid that replaces MyPlate · What has changed from the previous version and what has not changed · Hits, misses and inconsistencies · What the DGAs mean for people/families at home · What the DGAs mean for federal nutrition programs like school meals · What health professional organizations have to say about the new DGAs · Practical takeaways and tips for the public and health professionals · Resources for more information

Jan 20, 202652 min

Ep 302302: Alcohol & Damp January: The Research on Moderate Drinking – Jennifer Tujague

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/302 The health risks of heavy drinking are well-established. But what about the health risks of light to moderate drinking? More people, especially the Gen Z population, are leaning toward moderation of alcohol intake rather than going completely dry, shifting the popular "Dry January" challenge toward more of a "Damp January" trend. While the role of alcohol in health-related outcomes is complex and nuanced, a new meta-analysis of 23 major studies from 2000 to 2024 found that light-to-moderate drinking carries the same – or in some cases lower – risk of death compared to abstaining, while lifestyle factors like diet and exercise play a huge role in outcomes. Likewise, a new report published in September sheds light on alcohol and health including WHO data showing reductions in alcohol-related morbidity and mortality with many countries on track to meet targets for reducing harmful drinking. Tune in to this episode with guest Jennifer Tujague, MPH, to learn about: · the different and conflicting reports on alcohol intake and recommendations · the research on alcohol consumption and health · how moderation is defined · different drinking patterns and associated risks · combined effects of obesity and alcohol · alcohol and weight · GLP-1s and alcohol · Non-alcoholic beverages · The Damp January trend · resources for health professionals and the public

Dec 29, 202546 min

Ep 301301: Hidden Hunger: Closing the Gap for Healthy Growth in Children – Dr. Caree Cotwright

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/301 This episode is sponsored. Commercial support has been provided by Danone North America & Danimals. Dr. Caree Cotwright is a paid consultant to Danone North America. No brands are discussed or promoted. Many kids don't consume the proper amount of nutrients that are vital for healthy growth, chronic disease prevention, and overall health. This episode examines hidden hunger - when children consume enough calories but not enough essential nutrients for growth and development. Listeners will explore the nutrient gaps most common in U.S. children, the role of picky eating and access in shaping dietary patterns and practical ways to help families close nutrient gaps with affordable, nutrient-dense foods. Tune in to this episode with guest Dr. Caree Cotwright, PhD to learn about: · the prevalence and main drivers of hidden hunger · myths about hidden hunger and who is at risk · common nutrient gaps in children's diets · how 'picky eating' and food preferences impact nutrient intake · how issues of equity and nutrition security impact hunger · real-world ways hidden hunger shows up in schools and communities · challenges parents/families face and how health professionals can support them · practical strategies parents can employ even when resources are tight · the important role that 'nutrition resilience' plays · the power of collaboration between healthcare professionals, teachers and families · addressing the view that "eating healthy is too expensive" · resources for health professionals and the public This episode (Hidden Hunger: Closing the Gap for Healthy Growth in Children) awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration's CPEU Prior Approval Program. Visit https://soundbitesrd.com/301 to access the CPEU activity.

Dec 17, 202539 min

Ep 300300: GLP-1 Meds and Then What? Turning Weight Loss into Lifelong Wellness – Dr. Gitanjali Srivastava

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/300 This episode is sponsored. Commercial support has been provided by Danone North America & OIKOS. Dr. Gitanjali Srivastava is a paid consultant to Danone North America. No brands are discussed or promoted. This episode explores strategies for maintaining weight loss and overall wellness following the use of GLP-1 medications. Listeners will learn how behavioral, nutritional and clinical approaches can help patients sustain progress and build long-term healthy habits with shifts to their dosage or after discontinuing treatment. Tune in to this episode to learn about: · the STEP and SURMOUNT 4 trial findings · the chronic pathological state of obesity · how GLP-1 meds curb food noise and disordered eating · how GLP-1 meds are intended to be used for weight loss · the crucial role of behavior change · statistics about how and why people plan to stay on or go off the meds · key behavior changes that GLP-1 users can adopt to maximize their success · the importance of structured exercise · how "clock genes" play a role in metabolic function · the power of fiber, protein and fluids in dietary habits · the three pillars: protein, portions and patterns · various reasons that people stop taking GLP-1s · what happens when people stop taking GLP-1s · stigma and bias with weight loss medications · the many challenges in maintaining weight loss · how dietitians are an essential part of the care team · the importance of communicating with patients about side effects · how to support patients who are pausing, cycling or microdosing their GLP-1s · resources for health professionals and the public This episode (GLP-1 Meds and Then What? Turning Weight Loss into Lifelong Wellness) awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration's CPEU Prior Approval Program. Visit https://soundbitesrd.com/300 to access the CPEU activity.

Dec 3, 202550 min

Ep 299299: Food, Culture, and Care: Type 2 Diabetes Risk Reduction & Management – Constance Brown-Riggs

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/299 This episode is sponsored. Commercial support has been provided by Danone North America & Light + Fit. Constance Brown-Riggs is a paid consultant to Danone North America. No brands are discussed or promoted. This episode explores how culturally relevant, patient-centered nutrition strategies can support Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) risk reduction. Through an evidence-based lens, it highlights the role of flexible eating patterns and nutrient-dense foods in promoting sustainable dietary change across diverse populations. Tune in to this episode to learn about: · why culturally relevant care matters · what can happen when nutrition guidance doesn't align with cultural foodways · what the science says about flexible eating patterns in T2DM · what the science says about the role of yogurt in supporting T2DM risk reduction · the qualified health claim regarding yogurt and T2DM · how RDNs can help patients navigate barriers to change · the role of patient centered care and communication · tips for empowering patients to adopt flexible eating patterns · how to emphasize achievable and enjoyable habits vs. restriction · building trust and supporting sustainable changes · how to approach culturally relevant conversations more confidently · resources for health professionals and the public This episode (Food, Culture, and Care: Type 2 Diabetes Risk Reduction & Management) awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration's CPEU Prior Approval Program. Visit https://soundbitesrd.com/299 to access the CPEU activity.

Nov 20, 202535 min

Ep 298298: Support Gut Health & Holistic Wellbeing with Science-Based Strategies – Dr. Hannah Holscher

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/298 This episode is sponsored. Commercial support has been provided by Danone North America & Activia. Dr. Hannah Holscher is a paid consultant to Danone North America. No brands are discussed or promoted. Gut health and the gut microbiome play an important role in overall wellbeing, including digestion and immunity. This episode explores the latest research and practical strategies for promoting gut health through nutrient-rich dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and the inclusion of probiotic and fermented foods. Tune in to this episode to learn about: · why the gut is such an important foundation for overall health · what the gut microbiome is and how diet shapes it · key roles of the digestive tract and how the microbiome factors in · how long it takes for the microbiome to respond to dietary changes · research on how diet quality and variety impact the gut microbiome · how plant-based foods and fermented foods impact microbial diversity · definitions of prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics and postbiotics · strain-specific probiotic effects · lifestyle factors that impact gut health · practical steps to support gut health · how dietitians can simplify the science for clients · resources for health professionals and the public This episode (Support Gut Health and Holistic Wellbeing with Science-Based Strategies) awards 1.0 CPEUs in accordance with the Commission on Dietetic Registration's CPEU Prior Approval Program. Visit https://soundbitesrd.com/298 to access the CPEU activity.

Nov 17, 202559 min

Ep 297297: Weight Bias, Diabetes Distress & Trauma Informed Care – Dr. Robyn Pashby

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/297 We know that there is not one single treatment approach that works for every person with obesity, however there is one type of approach we can use when discussing weight with every person: trauma-informed care (TIC). TIC is an approach that recognizes the possibility that many people may have a history of trauma exposure, and how this past or ongoing trauma such as abuse, neglect or food insecurity can shape a person's relationship with food, body and health behaviors. Data show that 64% of adults in the U.S. reported they had experienced at least one type of adverse childhood experience (ACE) before age 18 and nearly one in six adults reported they had experienced four or more types of ACEs. Compared to women with 0 ACEs, women with 4+ ACEs are 62% more likely to have obesity, 41% more likely to report a hypertension diagnosis, and 36% more likely to report a diabetes diagnosis. Tune in to this episode to learn about: · why TIC is so important · how TIC is different from motivational interviewing · benefits of TIC to patients and practitioners · the obesity-trauma connection · weight stigma and diabetes distress · adverse childhood experiences · shared decision making · resources for health professionals and the public

Oct 29, 202555 min

Ep 296296: Ultraprocessed Foods in Focus: How is the Food Industry Responding? – Rocco Renaldi

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/296 Are processed foods truly undermining our health, or are they an essential part of a safe, nutritious, and affordable food supply? Should the way we classify foods based on processing outweigh decades of national dietary guidelines—or are these systems flawed from the start? And what happens to public health policy when decisions hinge on classifications that may not be scientifically sound? Tune in to this episode to learn more about: · how UPFs are defined · the NOVA classification system · how much of our diet is UPF · benefits of UPFs in the diet · how and why the current public discourse on UPFs is "superficial" · growing global distrust of science · how the food industry is responding to criticisms around UPFs · actions the food industry has taken to improve products · how the food industry gains insights into consumer preferences · the roles and responsibilities of food companies to educate and inform consumers · collaboration between the food industry and policymakers · what the future of UPFs might look like · resources for more information

Oct 16, 202535 min

Ep 295295: Healthy & Sustainable: Exploring Food Values and Their Impact – Lauren Hoffman

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/295 In this episode, we explore the FoodMinds Conscious Consumption Index, revealing insights into consumer sentiment on healthy and sustainable food systems. Despite growing familiarity with the topic, less than half of consumers report purchasing healthy, sustainable options regularly. What's driving this gap between awareness and action? Join us as we explore how people are thinking about healthy, sustainable foods. We'll discuss how definitions of sustainable foods are evolving, the generational differences in engagement, and the main drivers and barriers to purchasing. Discover why price, taste, and skepticism about marketing claims are significant obstacles, and learn how stakeholders—from companies to individuals—can help transform our food systems.

Sep 30, 202550 min

Ep 294294: MAHA: A Call to Action – Dr. Kevin Klatt

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/294 Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) is a public health-oriented slogan and initiative aimed at addressing the health challenges facing Americans led by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Scientists, medical professionals and public health officials have criticized the movement, citing concerns about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s past remarks and views regarding vaccines and public health. Tune in to this episode to learn about: ● a nutrition and public health expert's reflection on the first 6 months of MAHA ● funding cuts to various nutrition programs, research and landmark trials such as the Diabetes Prevention Program ● the administration's focus on food dyes, seed oils and the FoodPyramid ● how health professional societies are responding so far ● opportunities for meaningful changes in public health nutrition ● what the new DGAs might look like ● resources for more information

Sep 10, 202559 min

Ep 293293: New Protein Research: How and Why Are People Prioritizing It? – Lucy Woods

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/293 Food ethnographer Lucy Woods has spent the last several years diving deep into the evolving landscape of protein consumption. Lucy's expertise lies in uncovering the "why" behind the ways people eat, with a specific focus on protein – from red meat and poultry to plant-based options and protein-packed snacks. Her recent research revealed that 61% of Americans increased their protein intake in 2024, compared to just 48% in 2019. She's been on the ground, listening to consumers share their motivations, from wellness and fitness goals to convenience and indulgence. Tune in to this episode to learn about: ● new ethnographic research on protein consumption trends ● shifts in identifying as flexitarian, omnivore or carnivore ● 3 key trends identified in this research ● different motivations for eating protein ● why people are including and/or increasing protein intake ● the types of protein people are seeking ● which types of protein rank highest for flavor, nutrition, convenience ● what people look for on protein food labels ● social micro cultures and their impact on protein trends ● snacking insights and product innovations ● how consumers are navigating higher grocery prices ● how to access the full report

Aug 27, 202548 min

Ep 292292: Vitamin K2 Unveiled: Why It Matters for Heart and Bone Health – Dr. Chris Mohr

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/292 The Forgotten Vitamin: K2's Role in Cardiovascular and Skeletal Health Vitamin K2 might not be the first nutrient you think of when it comes to heart health or bone health – but it should definitely be on your list of important nutrients. This episode explores the science behind vitamin K2, how it differs from K1, and its role alongside other nutrients in supporting cardiovascular and skeletal health. Tune in to this episode to learn about: ● the differences between vitamin K1 and K2 ● why K2 matters for heart and bone health ● food sources and if they are common in the diet ● how much vitamin K2 is recommended ● other nutrients that work with vitamin K2 to support heart and bone health ● research on vitamin K2's role in heart and bone health including the AVADEC Trial ● what to look for in supplements ● ways to assess the quality of supplements ● updated vitamin D recommendations ● preventing deficiency vs. optimal amounts of nutrients ● resources for health professionals and the public

Aug 14, 202542 min

Ep 291291: The Evolution of Truth & How to Rebuild Trust in Science – Charlie Arnot

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/291 Belief-Based Research: The Power of Shared Values Public trust has shifted. Once, experts like scientists were the go-to voices for credible information, earning trust through their ability to solve major societal challenges. Today, "someone like me" is considered just as trustworthy, while social media influencers and opinion-driven podcasts often reach larger audiences than traditional news outlets. Consumers are now "choosing their own adventure" when deciding what information about food and nutrition they believe. In this episode, we explore groundbreaking findings from The Center for Food Integrity's research study, The Evolution of Truth. By uncovering the core values, beliefs, and fears shaping consumer behavior around food, this research offers powerful insights to help listeners navigate a polarized world where truth is increasingly defined by perception rather than science. Tune in to this episode to learn about: ● how truth is a social construct and what that means ● the power of shared values in building trust ● 5 different consumer personalities and how to better connect with them ● what different types of consumers think about MAHA ● the inherent opportunities borne out of MAHA ● nutrition misinformation and consumer behavior ● social media influence vs. facts ● truth in food and nutrition ● building trust vs. defending an interest ● how to build trust in science ● the role of science in building trust

Jul 24, 202539 min
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