The Weekly Digest
Discover the latest in nutrition – from reliable research to practical tips and wholesome recipes dished out by registered dietitians. Whether you're seeking science-backed insights, expert advice, or delicious ways to nourish your body, we've got you covered!
Traditionally Cured Hams, Cholesterol, and the Power of Nutrition Claims
You may have heard the claim that high-quality Serrano or Ibérico hams are “good for cholesterol” or even contain “no cholesterol.” One such moment appeared on an old episode of Anthony Bourdain’s travel cooking show. In the episode, a man curing ham claimed that once it aged for over a year it contained no cholesterol. Bourdain was clearly skeptical. This moment highlights the kind of surprising health claims that often surround traditional foods.
The Myth of 'Clean Eating': When Gut Health Becomes a Mask for Disordered Eating
Gut Health or Diet Culture in Disguise?
The wellness world has elevated "gut health" to a near-religious status. From Whole30 to anti-inflammatory diets and endless elimination protocols, many people genuinely believe they're making choices for their digestive health. But as a dietitian who works at the intersection of eating disorders and GI issues, I often see something more complicated happening.
For individuals with a history of eating disorders or disordered eating, the language of "clean eating" or "gut healing" can offer socially acceptable ways to restrict and even receive praise for it.
Fueling Resilience: Nutrition for Strength & Recovery from Cancer Treatment
At Northern Nutrition Group, we believe that every body is worthy of nourishment, strength, and care. Resilience is more than “bouncing back” from treatment, it’s the ongoing ability to recover, adapt, and keep moving forward in your cancer journey, even in the face of challenges. Nutrition can play a powerful role in this process, helping us rebuild strength, manage fatigue, and support our body’s natural healing systems.
Nutrition Support for PMS and PMDD
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) affect many menstruating women, often disrupting daily life with symptoms like mood changes, bloating, headaches, and fatigue. While medical and mental health support are essential, nutrition support can play a strong complementary role.
Back-to-School Fuel: Easy Dinners & Balanced Grab-and-Go Snacks for Busy Weeknights
The school year is officially back in full swing in Montana! Between after-school activities, homework, and work commitments, dinner and snacks can easily become an afterthought. But nourishing your family (or yourself!) doesn’t have to mean complicated recipes or hours in the kitchen.
Here are a few simple, nutrient-rich dinner ideas and grab-and-go snack options that keep energy up and mealtimes stress-free. These ideas are designed to support adequate fueling by pairing protein or fats with carbohydrates, and when possible, include fruits or vegetables too!
Ultra Processed Foods: Are They Always Bad?
"Ultra processed foods are driving our chronic disease epidemic,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “We must act boldly to eliminate the root causes of chronic illness and improve the health of our food supply.” This quote is not only untrue, it also reflects a growing misunderstanding about ultra processed foods. This kind of oversimplified messaging ignores the complexity of the issue.
Should Cancer Patients Worry About the Sugar in Fruit?
If you’ve ever been told to cut out fruit during cancer treatment because of its sugar content, you’re not alone, and you're not doing anything wrong by questioning that advice.
Let’s be clear: Fruit is not the enemy
Fermentation in Big Sky Country: Making Sauerkraut with Montana-Grown Cabbage
Montana might be known for its vast skies and rugged terrain, but tucked into its valleys and gardens grows something humble, hardy, and incredibly good for you: cabbage. When that cabbage is transformed through the ancient art of fermentation, it turns into a powerful, gut-supportive superfood: sauerkraut.
Delicious, Easy, No-Oven Summer Meal Ideas
When the summer heat hits, turning on the oven becomes a chore most of us want to avoid. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice healthy eating. With a little planning, you can create balanced, no-cook summer meals that are fresh, fast, and packed with nutrients.
What Does “Healthy” Really Mean?
As a dietitian, one of the biggest hurdles I face is dismantling the social definition of “healthy.” In casual conversation, people proudly tell me they eat “clean,” high-protein, low-carb, unprocessed foods made from scratch.
But the reality? This rigid, trendy view of health can lead to undernourishment, fatigue, and confusing symptoms. Many people are genuinely surprised when I don’t praise their carb-free lifestyle or celebrate their keto, Whole30, or carnivore efforts.