Nutrition for Noobs

Unlock the secrets of coffee, wellness, and nutrition in this episode of Nutrition for Noobs! Join hosts Kevin and Michelle as they 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 cup.Find Cafezia online at https://cafezia.caFor $12 off your first order from Cafezia, use the promo code "NOOB" - thanks Jenna!Please subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition.Connect with us at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

In this exciting follow-up episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle dives deeper into 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 can wreak havoc on digestion and sleep. Plus, tips to adjust your routine, support your gut microbiome, and optimize your eating for better results—without obsessing over calories.Whether you're a nutrition newbie or a seasoned health nerd, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways, a few laughs, and one of Kevin’s signature dad jokes.Please subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition.Have a question for Michelle? Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

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, humor, and the chemistry that makes this podcast a fan favourite.🎉 Thank YOU for sticking with us for 50 amazing episodes!

In this insightful episode, 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 without complete food deprivation.Whether you're curious about optimizing your meal timing, improving sleep, or understanding how food impacts longevity, this episode offers science-based guidance, personal anecdotes, and practical takeaways to transform your health.Please subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition.Have a question for Michelle? Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

Looking for a healthier dessert that’s still rich, chocolatey, and satisfying? In this solo “Recipes for Noobs” episode, 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:2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely grated1 teaspoon cinnamon1 tablespoon cocoa powder1½ cups all-purpose flour2 teaspoons baking powder½ teaspoon salt1¼ cups black beans, puréed½ cup sugar2 tbsp applesauce1¼ cups chopped pitted dates1 cup (6 ounces) bittersweet chocolate chips or chunksPlease subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, 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—one broccoli cheer at a time.Please subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

In this eye-opening episode, 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.Please subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

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 — with plenty of humor along the way.We discuss:The science behind healthy poop and what "normal" really looks likeWhat different poop colours mean (including green, yellow, black, red, and pale stools)How diet, hydration, fibre intake, and medications like antibiotics affect digestionWarning signs of constipation, malabsorption, and GI bleedingHow bile plays a role in digestion and why it's responsible for the classic brown hueWhy you shouldn't ignore your stool — and when it's time to see a doctorWhether you're curious about your own bathroom habits or just want to understand your body better, this episode is packed with digestive health tips, gut microbiome insights, and practical ways to track your poop for optimal health.Don't be shy — your poop has a lot to say! Tune in and discover how listening to your gut can change your health for the better.Please subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

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 recommendations (28g for women, 35g for men) are just the bare minimum—and how easy it is to meet or exceed them with a whole food, plant-based diet. Learn practical tips for increasing your fibre intake through high-fibre foods like oats, beans, berries, flaxseed, vegetables, and legumes—without the bloat and gas that can come from doing it too quickly.You’ll also hear about fascinating studies, including a prehistoric analysis showing ancient humans consumed up to 135 grams of fibre daily and modern hunter-gatherer societies who still thrive on fibre-rich diets. Plus, discover how fibre impacts satiety, gut health, blood sugar balance, and even cancer prevention.Whether you're plant-based, keto-curious, or somewhere in between, this episode will change the way you think about fibre—and your bathroom habits—for good.Stay in touch! Contact us at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs. And don't forget to rate us on Apple Podcasts (or where ever you listen to us) and leave us a review - it really helps other listeners like you to find us. Thanks!

In this seed‑tastic episode of Nutrition for Noobs, 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:Which seed is the anti‑inflammatory MVPSimple prep habits for soaking, grinding, and storingEasy recipes—chia pudding, flax eggs, granolasThe surprising benefits of variety (hey, sesame & pumpkin are next!)Whether you’re a smoothie lover, inflammation fighter, or curious cook, this episode is a seed-lover’s treasure trove. Be pun-prepared, get seed-smart, and eat your seeds!Don’t forget to subscribe, share your own seed puns or kitchen experiments, and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

In this savory catch-up of Nutrition for Noobs, 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:Understand what makes bone broth different from other broths and stocksLearn about its real collagen content, amino acids, and mineral benefitsDiscover how to make your own broth safely—or how to choose a good store-bought optionAvoid common pitfalls like over-sodium, heavy metals, and misleading labelsDon’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share your own bone broth recipes or questions—your feedback helps other noobs get smarter and healthier! Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

Is collagen just hype, or truly a health powerhouse for skin, joints, and more? In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle unpack the science of collagen with clarity, warmth, and practical tips for everyday health enthusiasts.What You’ll Discover:Collagen benefits for skin, aging, and jointsChoose between collagen supplements vs food sourcesSimple, effective diets and lifestyle strategies to support collagen naturallyEvidence-based discussion on anti-aging nutritionTune in now for an honest, science-based exploration of collagen—with practical advice, fun banter, and real-world takeaways for healthier skin and joints.Subscribe, leave a review, and share your collagen experiences or questions—your feedback helps fellow noobs on their nutrition journey! Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

In this special cross‑podcast episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle takes the mic on the Plant‑Based Canada podcast, chatting with host Stephanie Nishi about the power and potential of a plant‑centered lifestyle. Join them as they unpack evidence‑based insights on whole food, plant‑based eating, nutrition myths, and practical tips to fuel vibrant health.Episode HighlightsPlant‑Based Nutrition 101 – What defines it, the science‑backed health benefits, and how it compares to standard diets.Key Benefits – Discussing improved heart health, metabolic wellness, digestive health, and potential role in chronic disease prevention.Whole Foods vs Processed – Why whole‑food sources (legumes, grains, fruits, veggies, nuts) matter more than meat alternatives or ultra‑processed options.Vitamin & Mineral Strategies – Smart guidance on protein, iron, calcium, omega‑3s, B12, and say‑no‑to‑nutrient‑gaps advice.Mindful Meal Planning – Michelle and Stephanie share real‑world tips for beginners: pantry staples, easy swaps, balanced plates, and sustainable habits.Inspiring Stories – Real‑life examples of people who’ve thrived on plant‑based nutrition, and the dos and don’ts to avoid overwhelm.Tune in to this inspiring replay featuring Michelle and Stephanie Nishi’s deep dive into the world of plant‑based nutrition! And if you're interested in subscribing to the Plant-Based Canada podcast, you can connect with them here:Instagram (@plantbasedcanadaorg)Facebook (Plant-Based Canada, https://m.facebook.com/plantbasedcanadaorg/)Website (https://www.plantbasedcanada.org/)X / Twitter @PBC_orgListen to the Plant-Based Canada Podcast here (https://plantbasedcanadapodcast.buzzsprout.com/) or wherever you listen to podcastsDon’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your plant-forward journey with us here at N4N—the best way to help fellow noobs sprout their healthy habits. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

Looking for easy pantry stocking tips, healthy pantry essentials, or ways to support a plant-forward lifestyle? In Episode 39 of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle and Kevin dive into “Ideas for Stocking Your Pantry”—perfect for simplifying grocery shopping, reducing meal prep stress, and cultivating long-lasting, nutritious kitchen staples.Discover how to build a balanced pantry full of whole grains, nutrient-rich staples, canned beans, nuts & seeds, spices, and healthy fats—all designed to support gut health, add flavour, and make last-minute meal prep easy.From buying in bulk to choosing the best dried goods, they cover smart strategies for stocking:Whole grains like quinoa, rice, oatsCanned & dried legumes for protein and fiberNuts, seeds & healthy fats (olive oil, nut butters)Herbs, spices, and low-sodium sauces for flavour without processed additivesShelf-stable plant-based staples to support quick, creative cookingAlso included: savvy tips on meal prep, grocery budgeting, reducing food waste, and how pantry essentials can fuel a whole food, plant-based diet even on busy days.Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned meal-prepper, this episode gives realistic, practical pantry ideas to support long-term nutrition, wellness, and healthy eating habits—so you're never stuck with dinner panic again.Don’t forget to subscribe, share your own pantry staples and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

In this eye-opening episode, Michelle and Kevin dive into the surprising science behind emulsifiers in food and their impact on your gut health and microbiome. Inspired by a recent Wall Street Journal article and cutting-edge research from France and the U.S., they explore how common food additives—like carboxymethyl cellulose, polysorbate 80, carrageenan, and xanthan gum—could be silently affecting your digestive health, increasing inflammation, and even contributing to chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.You'll learn:What emulsifiers actually do in processed and ultra-processed foodsWhy synthetic emulsifiers may disrupt your gut microbiome—even in "healthy" foods like yogurt and plant milksThe difference between natural vs. synthetic emulsifiers (e.g., soy lecithin vs. polysorbate 80)What recent studies say about emulsifiers’ links to inflammation, immune response, and Crohn’s diseaseHow to read food labels and make smarter, gut-friendly choicesWhether you’re a health-conscious shopper, someone struggling with digestive issues, or just curious about what’s really in your food, this episode is packed with research-backed insights to help you navigate the modern food landscape.Got a question for Michelle? A topic suggestion? Contact us at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs. And don't forget to rate us on Apple Podcasts (or where ever you listen to us) and leave us a review - it really helps other listeners like you to find us. Thanks!

In this enlightening episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle dive deep into the salty truth behind one of the most common ingredients in our diets: salt. From Himalayan pink salt and kosher salt to Kala Namak and Hawaiian black volcanic salt, they explore the health claims, flavor profiles, and—most importantly—the iodine content (or lack thereof) in today’s trendy alternatives.Did you know that most processed foods and fancy salts lack the iodine your body needs to maintain thyroid health? Michelle explains how a historical iodine deficiency led to a public health crisis—goiter outbreaks across North America—and why it’s making a quiet comeback today.Topics covered in this episode:Why iodine is essential for thyroid function and brain developmentThe real difference between iodized salt vs. sea salt vs. Himalayan saltThe hidden risks of salt substitutes and sodium-free dietsHow to avoid iodine deficiency without overdoing salt intakeNatural sources of iodine, including seaweed, kelp, and noriFun facts from nutrition history—like how dairy disinfectants once caused iodine overloadWhether you're a health-conscious eater, plant-based foodie, or just trying to make smarter grocery choices, this episode delivers science-backed insights without the fluff..Listen now to learn how to balance salt intake, choose the right type for your needs, and avoid the modern trap of being salted but iodine-deficient.Got a question for Michelle? A topic suggestion? Send them to n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs. And don't forget to rate us on Apple Podcasts (or where ever you listen to us) and leave us a review - it really helps other listeners like you to find us. Thanks!

Join Kevin (the nutrition noob) and Michelle (the holistic nutrition expert) for a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Chef Kim Sutherland, Manager of Nutrition & Wellness at Ronald McDonald House Southwestern Ontario. In this episode, they explore the transformation of traditional “comfort food” within RMH—from satisfying cravings to nurturing healing.What you’ll learn:How RMH revamped their menus to engage families in thoughtful, balanced meals during stressful timesClever strategies to win over picky eaters—especially kids—with nutrient-packed versions of classic dishesWhy comfort food matters in nutrition and recovery, and how to make it both delicious and wholesomeReal-world tips on crafting healing meals that nourish both body and soul in coping environmentsWhether you’re a parent, caregiver, or anyone curious about the role of nutrition in healing environments, this episode delivers real-life inspiration.Tune in to this nourishing and enlightening episode to discover how comfort food can truly feed more than just the belly—it can heal the heart. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and drop a line to n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

Dive into a delightful, bite-sized conversation with Kevin (our resident nutrition noob) and Michelle (Registered Holistic Nutritionist) as they unravel the truth behind chocolate ceremonies. In this bonus episode, with special guest María Mancini Cenobio from Mayana Cacao, they break down:What exactly is a “chocolate ceremony”?Are ceremonial cacao rituals powerful wellness tools, or just marketing hype?Nutrient breakdown: ceremonial cacao vs. everyday chocolatePotential health benefits—like antioxidants, mood-boosting theobromine, and gut healthRed flags and cautions: misconceptions around dosage, caffeine content, and ritualistic trendsShort, sweet, and packed with science-backed insight, this bonus episode is perfect for anyone curious about ceremonial cacao, healthy chocolate rituals, or the intersection of nutrition and cultural food traditions. (Listen to episodes 33 and 34 for more completed discussions with María.)Maria's company: https://www.mayana.ca/Whether you're a cacao-curious foodie, a wellness explorer, or just love smart food chats—this chocolate-themed mini-episode delivers a healthy dose of myth-busting and chocolate love.Don’t forget to subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

Join Kevin (our Nutrition Noob) and Michelle (the Registered Holistic Nutritionist) as they nerd out with special guest María Mancini Cenobio, who owns and operates Mayana Cacao, continuing their two-part deep dive into cacao, the "Food of the Gods." In this rich, flavorful episode, they unpack:Health Benefits of Quality ChocolateHow cacao flavanols boost nitric oxide, aiding blood flow, reducing diabetes risk, and protecting heart and brain healthInsights from the Kuna people and Harvard’s Norman Hollenberg: how drinking 5 cups of cacao daily contributed to low rates of stroke, dementia, and hypertensionMood, Mind & MetabolismThe role of anandamide and theobromine in serotonin release, mental well-being, and gentle energy—plus why dark chocolate can outshine coffee for calm alertnessEvidence-backed portion guides: just half an ounce of dark chocolate boosts antioxidant levels and supports LDL oxidation controlEthical & Environmental ImpactWhy paying more for single-origin, ethically sourced cacao helps farmers thrive, protects biodiversity, and ensures premium quality—as María shares from her own small-batch chocolate-making venturePractical Tips & Tasting TakeawaysLearn how to choose high‑quality dark chocolate: minimal ingredients, high cacao percentage, transparency on sourcingDiscover how to enjoy cacao mindfully—whether as a soothing drinking chocolate or baking-grade ingredientExpert advice on balancing taste and nutrition while minimizing sugar and caffeine intakeYou can find María's chocolate at mayana.ca, and she is offering our Noobs 10% off by using code "N4N10" at checkout on her website. Thanks María!Maria's company: https://www.mayana.ca/Ready to fall in love with chocolate all over again? Tune in to rediscover cacao—from its ancestral roots to its modern-day superfood benefits. Subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.

Dive deep into the fascinating world of cacao, chocolate, and superfoods in this enlightening episode with cacao expert Maria. Discover the rich history and varietals of cacao—from Criollo, Forastero, to Trinitario—and how terroir shapes the unique flavors of this ancient plant, much like fine tea. Learn about the difference between craft chocolate and industrial chocolate, and why sourcing ethically and sustainably matters for quality and the environment.Maria shares her passion for creating handcrafted, sugar-free chocolate elixirs made with over 80% cacao and infused with powerful adaptogenic superfoods like medicinal mushrooms, lucuma, cinnamon, and Himalayan salt. Michelle and Kevin unpack the science behind cacao’s health benefits, including its rich polyphenols, antioxidants, and natural mood-enhancing compounds such as serotonin and methylxanthines.Whether you’re a chocolate lover, health enthusiast, or curious foodie, this episode offers valuable insights on how to enjoy chocolate in its purest, most nourishing form. Plus, get a sneak peek at how to make the perfect rich, frothy cacao drink and hear about exclusive listener discounts on Maria’s artisanal cacao products at mayana.ca.Tune in to learn about sustainable cacao farming, chocolate nutrition, and the art of making chocolate elixirs that support both your body and soul.Part two continues in episode 34.You can find María's chocolate at mayana.ca, and she is offering our Noobs 10% off by using code "N4N10" at checkout on her website. Thanks María!Maria's company: https://www.mayana.ca/Don’t forget to subscribe and drop us a review—your feedback helps fellow noobs find their way to better nutrition. Get in touch at n4noobs@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nutritionfornoobs.