The Nutrition Couch

In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Susie Burrell and Leanne Ward share expert nutrition tips to help you sleep better, improve your skin health, and find the motivation to exercise. Discover the benefits of our new Rest Hot Chocolate, packed with sleep-enhancing ingredients like glycine and chamomile, designed to help you achieve deeper, more restful sleep. We also discuss how to nourish your skin from within for a radiant complexion and introduce a healthy, delicious seed-based snack that supports your overall wellness. Plus, we answer a listener’s question: How do you stay motivated to exercise when your energy is low? Our New Hot Chocolate Range We have just launched our very own range of Designed by Dietitians functional hot chocolate blends. Our Rest Hot Chocolate is a wholesome, gluten-free blend that contains a functional blend of dietitian approved ingredients designed for you to savour whilst unwinding after a long day.The Glow Hot Chocolate is a gluten-free, dairy-free blend that has been formulated to combine nutrients, including Vitamin C, to support collagen formation and help protect skin cells from damage. It also contains hydrolysed collagen and coenzyme Q10. We've avoided the nasties by only using natural sweeteners. They are both so delicious and creamy, we can't decide which one we like the best. Lucky they are both designed to be enjoyed daily! Don't Miss an Episode   Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode and follow us on social media @the_nutrition_couch_podcast to ask us questions & see our food product reviews.  It would mean the world to us if you could leave us a 5 star review in the purple Apple podcast app (scroll to the bottom of the app to find the ratings and reviews) as this really helps push up higher in the charts to expose our podcast to more ears.  Please follow Susie on her Instagram & Facebook and Leanne on her Instagram, TikTok and the Leanne Ward Nutrition Podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most women trying to lose weight have been told the same thing their whole lives: eat less. But on this episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell make the case that under-eating may be one of the most common and most overlooked reasons women struggle to lose fat, build muscle, and feel well. If you are tired despite sleeping well, craving sugar and carbs by mid-afternoon, getting sick more than you should, or stuck at the same weight no matter what you do, this episode is for you. Are you under-eating? The signs your metabolism is working against you Leanne and Susie walk through the most common clinical signs of chronic under-fuelling: persistent fatigue, intense cravings, poor gym performance, frequent illness, and hormonal disruptions including irregular or missing periods. They explain why women who train hard, eat clean, and keep portions small are often the most at risk, and why not feeling hungry is not a sign you are doing well. They also break down the restrict-crave-overeat cycle and why eating more, not less, is often the fastest path to the body composition results their clients are actually after. Sausages: what the label is actually telling you Australians eat a lot of sausages, but the nutritional quality varies dramatically across supermarket brands. Susie compares Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi options and reveals exactly what to check on the label, including the three specific additive numbers (250, 251, 252) that indicate nitrates, what total fat and saturated fat thresholds to look for, and why butcher sausages are usually not the healthier choice most people assume. Product review: Peter's Frosty Fruits 50% Less Sugar Leanne tried these on holiday in Noosa and the kids loved them. She breaks down the ingredient list, the sugar comparison versus the originals, and why these are one of the better supermarket ice block options, particularly when you catch them half price. How to choose the right collagen supplement Not all collagen works, and a lot of what is being sold is poorly formulated. Leanne shares five evidence-based criteria for choosing a collagen supplement that actually delivers results: why vegan collagen is ineffective, what hydrolysed collagen peptides means and why it matters, which patented strains have clinical research behind them, how vitamin C improves collagen absorption, and why daily dose consistency matters far more than a large serve size. If you are currently spending money on collagen and not seeing results, this segment will tell you exactly why. For a collagen supplement built to these exact standards, visit designedbydietitians.com. Hit subscribe so you never miss a Wednesday drop, and if this episode helped you, share it with a friend who needs to hear it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cancer is on everyone's mind right now, and the research has finally caught up. In this episode, Leanne and Susie unpack the largest ever study on diet and cancer risk, published just weeks ago in the British Journal of Cancer. With data from 1.8 million people tracked over 16 years, the findings are genuinely surprising, and not always in the direction you'd expect. In this episode: The big cancer and diet study (1.8 million people, 17 cancers, 16 years) A landmark new study compared cancer risk across meat eaters, poultry eaters, pescatarians, vegetarians, and vegans. The results are more nuanced than the headlines suggest. Pescatarians showed lower rates of colorectal, breast, and kidney cancers. Vegetarians had lower rates of pancreatic, breast, prostate, kidney cancers, and multiple myeloma. But here's what almost nobody is reporting: vegans showed a statistically higher risk of colorectal cancer, and vegetarians had a significantly elevated risk of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Leanne and Susie break down what this actually means in real life, including how much red meat is too much, why processed meat is a completely different conversation to lean red meat, and whether most of us really need to go vegetarian to meaningfully reduce our cancer risk. Easter hot cross buns: what the nutrition actually looks like They're in supermarkets from Boxing Day and some of this year's flavours are genuinely surprising (yes, there's a Dorito one). Susie and Leanne rank the best and worst options, break down the calorie difference between mini, standard, and indulgent varieties, and explain when a hot cross bun can actually be the right pre or post workout nutrition choice. Product review: Noon protein milk drink A new breakfast-on-the-go drink has landed in Woolworths and the nutrition panel is genuinely impressive. 18 grams of protein, 6.3 grams of fibre, 580 milligrams of calcium, and a clean, milk-first ingredient list. Leanne breaks down whether it stacks up against Up and Go and who it is and isn't suitable for. Listener question: the best vegetarian meat replacements If you are vegetarian or cooking for one, this segment is worth listening to twice. Leanne and Susie name the specific products and brands they actually recommend in clinic, explain why Quorn mince beats most of the plant-based aisle on protein and fat, and cover the marinated tofu options that even tofu-sceptics tend to enjoy. Whether you eat meat every day, are trying to eat less of it, or are navigating a vegetarian household, this episode gives you real, evidence-based clarity without the extremism that tends to surround this topic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever been told your blood tests are “normal”, but you’re still exhausted, flat, foggy, struggling with weight changes, or just not feeling like yourself? In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie unpack the difference between normal and optimal blood test results, and why women need to look beyond a quick “everything’s fine” from the doctor. They break down the key markers worth tracking over time, including glucose, HbA1c, ferritin, vitamin D, cholesterol, thyroid, and estrogen, especially for women in their 30s, 40s and beyond. They also dive into a new warning linked with GLP-1 medications, including how appetite suppression can reduce diet quality and increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies if you are not actively protecting your intake. Plus, they review a high-protein granola topper and answer a listener question on the healthiest takeaway options. In this episode, we cover: Why normal blood tests are not always optimal The blood markers women should track over time Low ferritin, fatigue, brain fog and poor exercise tolerance Glucose, HbA1c and the early signs of insulin resistance Vitamin D, cholesterol, thyroid and estrogen changes to watch Why women in perimenopause and menopause need to pay closer attention The new GLP-1 nutrient deficiency concern Why eating less can still mean poor nutrition Product review: Coastal Crunch Protein Crunch Listener question: the healthiest takeaway choices If you’ve ever felt dismissed by “normal” results, this episode will help you ask better questions and understand what to look at more closely.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are low sugar lollies actually healthier… or just clever marketing? This week on The Nutrition Couch, Susie and Leanne take a deep dive into the booming “better-for-you” confectionery trend and unpack whether these fibre-based, low-sugar lollies are genuinely a smarter choice — or simply another ultra-processed product wearing a health halo. With brands like Fun Day dominating supermarket checkouts, are we being lured into a false sense of security? But that’s not all. Leanne shares compelling new research (January 2026) linking body fat distribution — not just body weight — to brain structure, cognitive performance and neurological disease risk. The findings raise important questions about muscle mass, abdominal fat, rapid weight loss, and long-term brain health. Plus: A practical review of convenient pre-prepared vegetables and whether they’re worth the price The truth about Aldi’s lower carb white bread and why not all “low carb” options are created equal A bigger conversation about ultra-processed foods and health star ratings This episode cuts through marketing noise and brings you back to what truly matters for long-term health, metabolic function and cognitive protection. If you’ve ever stood in the lolly aisle wondering “Is this actually better?” — this one’s for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you eat the same breakfast on repeat because it “fits your macros”, this episode is for you. This week on The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie unpack the biggest breakfast mistake they see in clinic, why it can quietly stall gut health and fat loss, and the simple way to fix it without overhauling your whole routine. Then, they cut through the noise on ultra-processed foods, sharing realistic supermarket swaps that reduce additives while keeping your grocery bill (and your sanity) intact. Plus, a surprisingly decent chocolatey lunchbox snack gets reviewed, and they answer the question everyone asks after we’ve “bagged out” wraps, which ones are actually worth buying? In this episode, we cover: The number one breakfast mistake for gut health and metabolism (and why “same breakfast every day” backfires) The 30 plant foods per week idea, what counts, and how to rack up plant points without trying Easy ways to rotate breakfasts while still hitting protein goals Why your weight loss can plateau even when you’re doing everything “right”, and how variety helps Ultra-processed foods: the difference between “some processing” and foods that genuinely drive poor outcomes Practical UPF swaps that actually make a difference (cereal, milks, breads, yoghurts, chips, crackers) The truth about additives like emulsifiers, when they matter, and when social media fear has gone too far Cracker chat: why some “party crackers” are basically biscuits, and what to buy instead for everyday Product review: Nestlé Milo 40% Less Sugar Dairy Snack, is it a solid option for active kids? The “maths isn’t mathing” moment, how the lower sugar version stacks up against the regular one (and why we’re investigating) Listener question: wraps, which ones are okay, and why “spinach wraps” are usually marketing, not veggies Best buys: the simple, budget-friendly wholegrain mini wraps Leanne and Susie actually recommend As always, this is practical, evidence-led nutrition advice without the all-or-nothing nonsense. Designed by Dietitians If your diet needs a little extra support, explore our scientifically formulated supplement range including protein, creatine, collagen, magnesium, and hydration at designedbydietitians.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re trying to lose weight, manage stress, or just feel better in your body, this episode connects the dots between what’s on your plate and how you actually feel. This week on The Nutrition Couch: A viral article claims cottage cheese, berries and seeds are the “best breakfast for weight loss.” We unpack whether it’s genuinely superior — or just smart marketing. Plus, a major Australian dataset of over 45,000 people has found a strong link between higher fruit and vegetable intake and lower psychological distress. Women in particular saw greater benefits at higher vegetable serves. We break down: Why protein + fibre still matters at breakfast Whether cottage cheese is worth the hype The gut–brain connection and mood regulation How many veggie serves actually make a difference The sugary drink–depression link A new high-protein Coles Perform barramundi option And the viral “Japanese cheesecake” trend (and why it’s not actually cheesecake) If you want simple, science-backed ways to support fat loss, mood and energy — without extremes — this one’s for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is brain fog getting worse in menopause? Trying to lose weight but nothing works anymore? This episode explores new research on creatine and cognition — and why willpower isn’t the real reason weight loss stalls. Here’s what we cover: A new 8-week randomised controlled trial on creatine in peri- and menopausal women What actually improved: memory, mental fatigue and cognitive performance Why women may store less creatine than men Whether all forms of creatine are equal Plus: CSIRO data from 78,000 Australians shows why structured meal planning leads to more weight loss Why willpower fails when planning is absent The psychology behind “starting again Monday” We also review the new Cobs Popcorn Bars — are they really a healthy lunchbox option? And we answer a listener question: why are your measurements dropping but not the scale? Leanne and Susie are dietitians and co-founders of Designed by Dietitians. As always, the discussion is evidence-led and practical.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peptides are the newest anti-ageing obsession. Injected. Micro-dosed. Marketed as skin-saving, hormone-balancing, fat-loss miracles. But are peptides actually evidence-based… or just another expensive wellness trend? In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, we break down the truth about peptides, influencer marketing, regulation gaps, and what the science really says before you spend hundreds of dollars chasing “anti-ageing”. 🧬 Peptides: What You Need to Know What peptides actually are (and why you already consume them daily) The crossover with GLP-1 medications Why buying peptides online is risky The regulation problem most people don’t realise The anti-ageing basics that outperform supplements 🌾 TikTok “Fibremaxxing” Are Australians really low in fibre? Whole food fibre vs added inulin and chicory root How to increase fibre without bloating The weekend eating trap that ruins gut health The simple formula to hit 25–30g per day 🥣 Product Review: High-Protein Cereal Coles’ new high-protein cereal analysed Why protein on the label isn’t enough The key ingredient missing Who it might suit 🥤 Coke Zero vs Diet Coke Is diet soft drink actually bad? Aspartame and cravings How often is too often? How to reduce reliance without extremes If you care about anti-ageing, gut health, fibre intake, weight regulation, or cutting through online nutrition misinformation — this episode will give you clarity. For evidence-based supplements, explore Designed by Dietitians at designedbydietitians.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US has released new dietary guidelines, and they’ve already caused a nutrition firestorm. Higher protein targets. More dairy. Fewer carbs. A tougher stance on ultra-processed foods. But do these changes actually matter, especially if you live in Australia? In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell break down what’s changed, why it’s controversial, and what’s genuinely useful versus what can be ignored. Then we get practical, because real nutrition decisions happen in lunchboxes and supermarket aisles, not food pyramids. In this episode: The new US dietary guidelines and why they’ve divided dietitians Higher protein targets, dairy’s comeback, and the carb rethink What this could signal for future Australian guidelines Why ultra-processed foods are finally being called out Plus: A simple lunchbox formula that actually works Why kids’ lunches are often low in protein, and easy fixes The truth about protein meat snacks and “no nitrate” options A high-protein milk worth considering Are fermented veggies really worth it for gut health? If you want clear, practical nutrition advice without hype or fear-mongering, this episode is for you. Hit play, and subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January is hectic, decision fatigue is real, and eating well can start to feel exhausting. In this episode, Leanne and Susie break down meal prep that actually works in real life, the sneaky way fries creep into your week, and what to order when fast food is the only option. No extremes. No guilt. Just systems that make healthy eating easier in 2026. In this episode, we cover: The simplest meal prep system to save time and mental load (without cooking every meal) The best foods to batch prep and what not to prep because it turns soggy Why convenience foods are not “cutting corners” and how to drop the guilt How long common prepped foods actually last in the fridge and freezer Freezer hacks that reduce waste and stop boredom The “Fry Creep” problem, how many fries is really a serve, and the once-a-week rule Leanne’s fry quality filter and how to enjoy chips without overdoing it A new freezer-friendly, high-protein seafood option for busy nights Smarter picks at Maccas, KFC, and Subway when you need something fast This episode is perfect if you want to eat well this year without burnout, perfectionism, or overthinking every meal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cravings feel powerful, frustrating, and often completely out of your control. But what if most cravings aren’t random at all? In this first episode of The Nutrition Couch for 2026, Leanne and Susie unpack what’s really driving cravings, why willpower is not the problem, and how simple changes to your day can make a huge difference. They also break down new research linking diet quality to better sleep, review a popular lower-calorie ice cream, and tackle a listener question on why low-carb wraps aren’t the health food they’re marketed to be. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why blood sugar dips are one of the biggest hidden drivers of sugar cravings How restricting carbs earlier in the day often backfires by 4pm The difference between true cravings and habit-based or emotional eating Why after-dinner cravings are often learned, not physiological How stress, fatigue, boredom and “reward eating” can disguise themselves as hunger A simple way to interrupt cravings without relying on willpower New research showing higher fruit, vegetable and whole-grain intake is linked to better sleep quality that same night Whether lower-calorie ice creams are worth it nutritionally Why low-carb wraps are more processed than many people realise, and what to choose instead Subscribe so you don’t miss a Wednesday episode, and send your listener questions or word of the year via Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to enjoy Christmas without the food hangover? Leanne and Susie share simple, realistic strategies to enjoy the festive season without overeating or falling into the “all or nothing” trap. In this episode: The mindset that leads to festive bingeing Portion and pacing tricks that actually work How to enjoy your favourites without feeling stuffed When to get back on track (hint: it’s sooner than you think) Press play to feel lighter, calmer and more in control this Christmas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we’re tackling the big one for party season: alcohol. Leanne and Susie break down how much is too much, why “just one glass” is rarely one glass, and the simple rules that prevent Christmas weight gain. Inside the episode: The truth about alcohol, hormones and cancer risk Why you might be drinking more than you think Party-season rules to protect sleep, energy and metabolism The canapé traps that lead to hidden weight gain Susie’s new favourite Woolies protein find Listener question: Is swimming actually good exercise for fat loss? Perfect if you want to enjoy December without the blowout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie unpack three huge topics women are constantly asking about: fasting, constipation, and whether “natural Ozempic” supplements like berberine are worth the hype. First up, they dive into intermittent fasting and why it often backfires for women, especially if you’re training hard, in your perimenopausal years, or constantly battling cravings and afternoon blow-outs. They talk through what the research actually says, how female hormones and muscle mass change the picture, and why a simple 12-hour overnight break from food may be the sweet spot for most women rather than extreme fasting windows. Next, they break down the brand-new constipation guidelines from the British Dietetic Association, including the now-famous kiwi fruit recommendation, mineral-rich water, magnesium and that slightly outrageous “six to eight slices of rye bread a day” advice. You’ll hear what’s genuinely useful, what’s unrealistic in real life, and how to build a gut-friendly routine that goes beyond just “eat more fibre”. In product spotlight, the ladies share their new favourite dip for summer entertaining, Yumi’s Capsicum & Roasted Cashew, and explain why it beats many cream-cheese-based dips nutritionally. They also give practical platter strategies to keep portions, costs and calories in check without feeling like you’re on a diet at the party. Finally, they tackle a listener question about berberine, the supplement being pushed online as “nature’s Ozempic”. Leanne and Susie explain what the science really shows for blood sugar and weight, the doses used in research, why side effects are more common at effective doses, and why it is absolutely not equivalent to GLP-1 medications. They share the simple, proven strategies that do more for metabolic health than chasing a miracle capsule. In this episode: Fasting and female physiology: why skipping breakfast can tank performance, worsen cravings and backfire for many active women, and when a gentle overnight fast may still have benefits. New constipation guidelines: the role of kiwi fruit, mineral-rich water and magnesium, why “more and more fibre” isn’t always the answer, and realistic ways to get things moving again. Summer platter upgrade: a healthier capsicum and cashew dip, smart portion tricks, and how to build a party platter that tastes amazing without blowing your goals or your budget. Berberine under the microscope: why calling it “natural Ozempic” is misleading, what it can and can’t do for blood glucose, and when you’re better off with lifestyle changes or prescribed medication. If this episode helps you rethink fasting or finally sort your gut and “magic pill” confusion, please follow the show, tap 5⭐, and share it with a friend who’s always starting a new diet on Monday. To explore our evidence-based supplement range, including our new Hydrate mix for summer, head to Designed by Dietitians.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most people wait for January to “start fresh” — but the research shows 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February. So in this bonus episode, Leanne and Susie flip the script and show you why starting small now is the real secret to lasting results. You’ll learn how to use December to build momentum, not lose it, and how a few simple habits can make 2026 feel completely different from every other “new year, new me” attempt. In this episode, we cover: The real reasons resolutions fail — and why January is actually the hardest time to overhaul your habits Why waiting for motivation never works (and what to focus on instead) How to set SMART goals that fit your real life, not your perfect-life fantasy The one small daily “anchor point” that keeps your goals front-of-mind Simple progress tracking that works even for the busiest women Holiday “healthy hacks” to help you stay balanced without feeling restricted How to avoid your personal “Achilles heel” habits that derail you every year Our own 2026 health and lifestyle goals and how we’re starting early If you’re tired of restarting every January, this is the episode that finally shows you how to start small, stay consistent and build habits that last. Press play — and start now, not later.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trying to eat more without gaining weight? Wondering how much protein you actually need — or if you’ve gone overboard? And what about that burning reflux that ruins your sleep? In this week’s episode of The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell cut through the confusion with practical, no-BS advice that real women can use every day. Here’s what you’ll learn: The truth about “free foods” and fat loss — what dietitians really mean by low-calorie “free” foods, and how to use them to bulk up meals, feel satisfied, and enjoy more flavour without blowing your calories. Protein myths busted — how much women actually need for fat loss, hormones and muscle support, what “too much” looks like, and why overdoing protein can leave you bloated, gassy, and tired. Healthy, affordable protein swaps — the best whole-food and budget-friendly sources of protein (and why most “protein everything” snacks aren’t helping your gut or your wallet). Smarter drink choices for summer — the surprising truth about tonic water sugar, and the best low-sugar options for your next G&T or alcohol-free spritz. Reflux fixes that actually work — how to eat at night without triggering reflux, which foods make it worse, and the simple evening habits that can finally help you sleep better. If you want to eat well, feel full, and still hit your health goals — without tracking every calorie or giving up your favourite foods — this episode is your blueprint.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kick off summer without blowing your goals. In this episode, Leanne and Susie show you how to enjoy Aussie barbecues while keeping calories, carbs and salt in check — plus the truth about “everyday electrolytes” and a frank review of a trending high-protein pasta. We finish with easy, kid-approved breakfast ideas for fussy eaters. What you’ll learn: BBQ pitfalls that quietly add 500–800+ calories The leaner barbecue blueprint: better sausages, smarter patties, chicken/seafood wins, and veggie sides that actually fill you up Portion strategy that stops the “sausage + chop + kebab” overload Social season survival: pre-event snacks that prevent grazing blowouts Smarter Hydration 101: when water is enough, when a hydration mix helps, and why most “electrolytes” are too salty for everyday use New from Designed by Dietitians: Hydrate (a gentle, low-sugar hydration range) — what’s in it, who it’s for, and how to dose after hard sessions, sauna, or gastro Product Review: the high-protein ravioli everyone’s buying — protein math vs. carbs, sodium and fibre additives; who it suits (and who should skip) Listener Q: fast breakfast wins for fussy kids (yoghurt pot bars, smoothie pops, egg soldiers, upgraded pancakes, freezer-friendly muffins) Helpful links:• Designed by Dietitians Hydrate (Lemon Lime; Blood Orange & Mango).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell tackle two big food questions women are asking right now — and the science behind them. Do You Really Need to Ditch the Dinner-Time Carbs? Why so many of us eat rice, pasta and bread on autopilot — and how to know if your body really needs it. Smart swaps to lighten your dinners without cooking two separate meals. How to balance portions when your partner or kids eat more than you. Real-life hacks for burgers, curries and creamy sauces that still taste amazing. The Fibre That Could Protect Your Liver New research from Nature Metabolism linking inulin — a type of prebiotic fibre — to better liver health and reduced inflammation. What fatty liver actually is (and why it’s not just about alcohol). Easy ways to add more inulin-rich foods like leeks, asparagus and artichokes into your week. Kitchen hacks to save time: how to freeze flavour cubes of onion, garlic and leek for gut- and liver-friendly cooking. The Portion-Control Dessert We’re Loving The Mars Bar frozen dessert bar (yes, really). Why one perfectly portioned treat can work better than “healthy” dessert substitutes. Listener Question: Should You Eat the Dressing in Salad Kits? The verdict on supermarket salad kits — and why those tiny dressing sachets aren’t the problem. How to make them a satisfying lunch or dinner shortcut without the food guilt. Leanne and Susie wrap up with a reminder that balance matters most: simple swaps, not food fear, make nutrition work long-term. Designed by Dietitians Created by Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell, our Designed by Dietitians range gives busy women science-backed supplements that actually work — no fluff, no filler. Protein for strength and recovery Creatine for women Triple magnesium for muscle and sleep support Collagen for skin and joints Hydration range for energy and focus Explore the range at designedbydietitians.com and tag The Nutrition Couch on Instagram while listening to go in the draw to win a Hydration Pack.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you avoiding foods just because you can’t pronounce an ingredient? You’re not alone — but this week, we unpack why obsessing over “seed oils” and additives can sometimes do more harm than good. In this episode, Leanne and Susie explain how to actually read a food label, which additives are worth caring about (and which aren’t), and the 10-year window when your health habits matter most. Inside this episode: Smart label reading: Why a long ingredient list doesn’t always mean “unhealthy,” how to judge the whole food, and what to focus on instead of fear-scrolling for “nasties.” The nuance on additives: The few ingredients dietitians really avoid — flavour enhancers 621/635, nitrates in processed meats (250 range), and certain emulsifiers like CMC, carrageenan, and polysorbate-80 — plus why dose and frequency matter more than perfection. Your 36–46 health wake-up call: New research shows this decade is when silent metabolic and hormonal shifts begin. Leanne and Susie share the simple screenings and habits that can genuinely protect your future health. Product spotlight: The protein pudding everyone’s talking about — how it stacks up nutritionally (hint: the calcium is impressive) and when it fits into a balanced diet. Listener question: “Do I really need protein powder?” The honest truth from two dietitians who own a supplement brand — and still say food first. Take-home tip: Stop aiming for perfection. Focus on patterns — not single ingredients. A balanced diet with mostly whole foods, enough protein, and regular movement will always matter more than avoiding a tiny emulsifier. Connect with us: Follow us on Instagram @the_nutrition_couch_podcast for more product reviews and label breakdowns, or submit your listener question for a future episode. We also mention our own supplement range, Designed by Dietitians, and acknowledge our role as founders when discussed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.