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.

Struggling to “be good” at restaurants, scanning every barcode, or wondering why your GLP-1 isn’t moving the dial? In this practical, myth-busting episode, Leanne and Susie unpack three big topics that drive real-world results: 1) Head vs body hunger (how to order smarter when eating out) Ditch “shoulds” that trigger later overeating and learn a simple decision flow to feel satisfied without blowing your goals. Real menu tweaks that reduce calories while keeping satisfaction high, plus how to balance the rest of your day when a meal is heavier. 2) Ultra-processed foods (UPFs): what the labels miss Why some cereals, breads, and convenience options can be smart choices despite scary ingredient lists, and when UPFs truly become a problem. A quick guide to reading labels without panic: fibre first, added sugars down, protein where it counts, and context over fear. Recent critiques of NOVA and simplistic scoring apps are pushing for more nuance.  3) GLP-1 reality check: “I’ve only lost a couple of kilos — is it working?” What matters most alongside medication: strength training to protect muscle, appetite awareness to actually reduce intake, and realistic timelines by starting weight. Why results vary, and the red flags that signal you need tailored nutrition support, not just a script. Real-world data and 2025 trend reports show usage is surging — but habits still drive sustainable outcomes.  Product watch (no endorsements): we analyse a new supermarket mini muffin aimed at kids. It’s still a packaged treat, but the fibre profile and ingredient order make it a comparatively better pick than many lunchbox snacks — and a handy freezer back-up for busy families. Need support with sleep, recovery, and daily collagen? Explore our Triple-Magnesium blend and Collagen powderfrom Designed by Dietitians — formulated to complement a balanced diet and active lifestyle. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you could lower your long-term dementia risk with everyday food choices, would you do it? This week we unpack new ANU-led research linking higher dietary magnesium with healthier brain ageing, then show you how to close the magnesium gap with real food and smart, practical routines. We also tackle a silent progress-killer for many women, unstructured weekend eating, and finish with a clear verdict on protein water. What you’ll learn Magnesium → brain health, in plain English: What the study actually found, why midlife matters, and how much most adults should aim for in Australia.  Food-first ways to lift intake: Leafy greens, nuts and seeds, legumes and whole grains that fit busy lives, plus simple swaps that add up fast. When supplements help: A quick checklist for choosing a quality magnesium, including forms and tolerability. If you want a dietitian-formulated option, see our Designed by Dietitians Triple-Magnesium blend in cranberry lemonade. Plan meals, not all-day grazing, especially on sport and errands days Allow two indulgent meals, not two indulgent days Do a Thursday or Friday top-up shop so fresh food is on hand Be the venue booker, choose places with sides and veg so you enjoy the meal and still feel good Drop the all-or-nothing mindset and reset at the very next meal Weekend eating without the blow-out:   Are “nitrate-free” turkey slices actually better? Why they can still count as processed, what matters on the label, and why home-cooked poultry is the gold standard.  Listener Q: Protein water explained, where it came from, who it was designed for, and why most listeners are better off with whole-food protein or a standard shake.  Why this episode matters Dementia risk rises with population ageing, so earlier, consistent habits give you the best shot at protecting brain health, especially for women who are often under the magnesium RDI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How would you describe your relationship with food? For many women, it’s complicated — shaped by childhood diets, family comments, or decades of restriction that leave deep imprints on how we eat today. In this week’s Nutrition Couch, Susie and Leanne open up the conversation on food trauma: What it is, how it starts, and the hidden ways it can sabotage eating patterns and weight goals. Why early experiences like dieting with your mum or comments from a grandparent can echo into adulthood. The first steps to bringing awareness and healing so you can finally enjoy food without guilt or fear. We also unpack two big nutrition talking points making headlines: New research on diet soft drinks — why one diet soda a day may raise type 2 diabetes risk even more than sugary soft drink, and what this means for everyday choices. Creatine and kidney health — is it really dangerous? We break down the science and bust one of the most persistent supplement myths. Plus, we share a new wholefood snack bar find that might just earn a spot in your trolley. Whether you’re navigating food struggles, curious about the latest health research, or just looking for practical dietitian-approved advice, this episode is packed with insights to support both your health and your mindset.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all have them… those little food habits that creep into our week and quietly derail our goals. Maybe it’s finishing the kids’ lunchbox leftovers, grabbing a sausage sizzle at Bunnings, or rewarding yourself with late-night snacks after dinner. In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell unpack the most common bad food habits holding women back — and how to break them without guilt or restriction. Here’s what we cover: The everyday food habits that add hundreds of extra calories without you realising Why “just in case” snacks, grazing all weekend, and skipping meals can backfire New research on ultra-processed foods showing they reduce weight loss and increase cravings Our supermarket product review: a better-for-you dip and cracker snack pack Listener question: Are two-minute noodles and other noodles really that bad? Whether you’re trying to lose weight, improve your gut health, or just feel more in control of your eating, this episode is packed with practical strategies and fresh insights you can use straight away.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you know what’s really in your supplements… or your sourdough? In today’s episode of The Nutrition Couch, Susie and Leanne dive into four hot-button nutrition topics making waves right now — from vitamin overload to supermarket marketing tricks. Here’s what we cover: 🧠 Supplement overload & B6 toxicity Why more isn’t better when it comes to vitamins. We unpack the growing number of B6 toxicity cases, signs and symptoms to watch for (like numbness and tingling), and how supplement stacking could be silently harming your nerves — even if you think you’re just boosting your energy. 🍞 Is sourdough bread actually healthy? Sourdough has a health halo, but not all loaves are created equal. We bust the biggest myths around supermarket vs. traditional sourdough and reveal why your favourite brunch toast might not be the gut-friendly option you think it is. 🥛 High protein full cream milk: who is it really for? We review the new Dairy Farmers High Protein Milk hitting Aussie supermarket shelves. With 15g of protein per serve, does it live up to the hype — or is it more marketing than meaningful? 🌱 What even is tiger nut milk? Spoiler: it’s not from a tiger. We review this trending plant-based milk and compare it to almond, soy, and oat options — is it worth the switch?  PLUS: 🎉 We reveal three exciting new products just launched from our Designed by Dietitians range — including the highly-requested RESTORE Magnesium in Cranberry Splash flavour, our new unflavoured collagen powder RENEW, and our pink hand mixers for perfect blends on the go.   👉 Loved this episode? Don’t forget to follow, rate and share it with a friend who’s always taking supplements or obsessed with sourdough!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do our kids actually eat — and is it as healthy as we think? This week on The Nutrition Couch, we unpack brand new research showing that 81% of snacks marketed to children are ultra-processed, raising major concerns about how packaging, peer pressure, and manipulative marketing are shaping kids’ diets. Leanne and Susie share practical advice for parents, including the best snack brands that pass the dietitian test. Then — the creatine gummy scandal you need to know about. A wave of independent testing reveals that most popular gummy brands contain only a fraction of the creatine they claim, with some delivering as little as 16%. We break down why it’s happening, why the science matters, and what to look for in a legitimate creatine supplement. We also dive into the surprisingly heated debate over broccoli stalks (do you eat them or snap them off?), and Susie shares her thoughts on a new product she’s loving: Riverina Dairy’s high-protein feta, which delivers 12g of protein per serve with a clean ingredient list. And in our listener question of the week: “I’ve just been diagnosed with osteopenia — what should I do next?” We explore the key nutrients, lifestyle changes, and exercise strategies to help strengthen your bones and reduce future risk. Whether you’re a parent, a supplement user, or just someone trying to eat better without the overwhelm — this episode will leave you informed and empowered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are 6am HIIT classes in winter actually doing more harm than good? In today’s episode of The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell unpack the rising chatter around early morning workouts, metabolic health, and whether you’re better off staying in bed (especially if you’re freezing, exhausted, or juggling toddlers). Also this week: A surprising new study suggests a low-fat vegan diet might beat the Mediterranean diet for weight loss and inflammation. But does it hold up in real life — or just in research labs? Our product spotlight reveals why Woolworths’ budget Potato Minis might be a smarter choice than you think (yes, even if you’re trying to lose weight). We break down the best supermarket pre-made meals for nutrition, convenience, and value — including Coles Perform, Strength Meals Co, and good old roast chooks. It’s a jam-packed episode full of science, straight talk and a few laughs — plus some practical wins for your next grocery shop. Tune in now for smart, no-fluff nutrition advice that actually fits into your life. Brought to you by Designed by Dietitians — real supplements for real life. Explore the range at designedbydietitians.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Australia is rolling out a new policy banning junk food advertising on public transport — but the headlines are causing quite a bit of confusion. Are rice cakes, soy milk, and ham sandwiches really on the banned advertising list? In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie break down the facts behind the ad ban, explain why it’s causing so much confusion for parents, and weigh in on whether the government has taken the right approach — or missed the mark entirely. You’ll learn: What South Australia’s new ad ban really targets — and why it’s not a food ban Why lunchbox staples like soy milk and ham are caught in the confusion Susie’s take on processed meats — and when restrictions make sense A simple Friday strategy that makes Sunday meal prep (finally) work Also in this episode: Frozen chip face-off: peri-peri vs. potato gems Is farmed salmon safe? Susie shares her insider view PLUS: ✨ We preview what’s coming next to DesignedByDietitians.com: premium collagen and magnesium blends, formulated by expert dietitians to support women’s sleep, energy, and strength. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by food rules, conflicting health advice, or just want smarter strategies to make your week easier — this episode is for you. 🎧 Hit play now and feel more in control by the end of your walk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Struggling with winter cravings but don’t want to blow your health goals? Wondering if that expensive gut health supplement is even doing anything? In this week’s episode of The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Susie Burrell and Leanne Ward unpack the real nutrition strategies that actually work — no gimmicks, no fads. On today’s show: Why some gut health supplements (yes, even probiotics and greens powders) may be a waste of money — and what’s actually worth it. Our no-guilt winter comfort food guide: practical tips to enjoy pies, pastas, lasagnas, and hearty meals without blowing your calorie budget. The frozen “protein pasta” supermarket trend: are products like FroPro Protein Pots a smart choice or just ultra-processed hype? Listener question: Are sugary kids’ cereals really that bad — and what do two dietitians actually feed their own children? This is a warm, practical, no-nonsense episode packed with real-life food tips and evidence-based advice to help you stay on track all winter long. Check out our scientifically formulated protein and creatine blends, designed by dietitians: designedbydietitians.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever felt like food is constantly on your mind — even after eating — you’re not imagining it. This week, we unpack the growing phenomenon of food noise and why it’s more than just willpower. Inside this jam-packed episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie dive into: What food noise really is — and why it’s affecting more women than ever The link between GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic) and reduced food chatter Meal timing, circadian rhythm, and how eating earlier may improve fatigue and metabolism A product review of Greens Protein Pancake Mix — is it worth it? The 5 supplements worth considering in peri and menopause (and what to avoid) Plus, we share practical advice to help you feel more in control of your hunger, energy, and body — without falling for overpriced gimmicks or restrictive plans. 🎧 Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, thinking about medication options, or just tired of the mental gymnastics around food… this one’s for you. — 👉 Want a science-backed protein, hot chocolate or creatine designed for women’s health? Explore our range at designedbydietitians.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve been told to cut cake, ban wine, and throw out the chips… But what if your favourite soul food is the secret to actually sticking to your weight loss goals? In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie unpack: 🎂 Why eating cake (yes, really) may improve weight loss outcomes New research shows that planned indulgences help reduce cravings, increase satisfaction, and prevent rebound bingeing. Learn how to choose your “soul foods” — and why not all treats are worth the calories. 🧪 The cookware in your kitchen could be disrupting your hormones From non-stick pans to plastic utensils, we break down the evidence on endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including PFAS, BPA, black plastics and silicone bakeware — and what to use instead for safer everyday cooking. 🛒 Supermarket find: Aldi’s Immune Vitality wellness shots They’re viral on TikTok and popping up in trolleys everywhere — but are they worth the $6.99 price tag? We analyse the ingredients, sugar content and when they might actually be useful. 🫒 Cooking oils decoded: what to use when olive oil’s too expensive We get real about extra virgin olive oil, budget-friendly oil swaps, and why canola might not be the villain the internet says it is. Whether you’re rethinking your cookware or finally want to ditch food guilt for good, this episode gives you practical, evidence-based guidance with zero fearmongering. 👩‍🍳 Plus, hear how Leanne swapped out her entire kitchen setup — and which oil Susie still swears by when budgets are tight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rice is a pantry staple — but should you be worried about what’s really hiding inside it? In today’s episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie unpack some eye-opening new data on arsenic levels in Australian rice and rice-based snacks. From lunchbox favourites to your sushi roll, we break down the facts, risks, and simple swaps to help you make safer, smarter choices — especially if you’ve got little ones. Also in this episode: Early puberty in girls: Could diet quality matter more than weight? Breakfast timing: Should you eat if you’re not hungry in the morning? Product review: Cauliflower gnocchi — the low-carb swap worth trying? Whether you’re a health-conscious parent, navigating hormone changes, or just curious about your breakfast habits — this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice you can act on straight away.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you paying $90 for "influencer-approved" collagen or magnesium blends (that cost just cents to make)? In this explosive episode of The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell expose the truth behind overpriced wellness supplements — including why some $90 “hot chocolates” and $5-per-serve hydration drinks are nothing more than marketing spin. Then, they unpack new research that’s a game-changer for women’s health: a study just published in The Journal of Nutrition shows that PMS symptoms can be reduced by up to 41% — simply by adding more nuts, seeds, and legumes into your diet. Meanwhile, giving in to PMS sugar cravings might make symptoms 33% worse. Also in this episode: Aldi soup review: The $2.99 pantry staple that punches above its weight High-protein milk drinks: convenient or ultra-processed minefield? The supplement ingredients you should never overpay for Why Designed by Dietitians keeps ingredient sourcing and clinical doses transparent — unlike many trending brands If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the supplement aisle or frustrated by the health promises plastered across social media, this is your no-BS guide to smarter, evidence-based choices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you eating too much saturated fat without realising it? In this powerful episode, Leanne and Susie unpack: Why saturated fat still matters (even if you’ve moved to low-carb or high-protein) The hidden saturated fat sources most people overlook The latest science on diabetes risk, insulin resistance, and why gestational diabetes is a huge red flag The exact blood tests you need to detect early glucose problems before they escalate How food sequencing, meal timing and simple movement hacks can dramatically improve blood sugar control A full review of Coles’ High Protein Bread: does it live up to the hype? When weight loss medication (like Ozempic or Mounjaro) is — and isn’t — the right option Why seeing a dietitian often unlocks results where nothing else has worked If you care about your long-term health, hormones, fat loss and metabolic future — this episode delivers real, practical answers. PLUS: Our 200-page kids nutrition ebook is now available here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are potatoes really bad for you? Can packaged foods still be healthy? What tomato sauce should your kids actually eat? This week on The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Leanne Ward and Susie Burrell bust myths and share real-world food advice to help you make better choices without cutting out your favourite meals. Inside this episode: The Great Potato Comeback We unpack the surprising research that links cooled potatoes to better blood sugar control and even fat loss. Ultra-Processed Foods, Explained How to tell the difference between smart convenience foods and those silently hurting your health. Budget-Friendly Soup Pick Our favourite $2 winter soup that’s high in fibre, vegan-friendly, and actually tastes good. Kids & Sauce: Smart Swaps The best tomato sauces with less sugar and more flavour — tested by our toddlers (and passed). Whether you’re feeding your family, watching your weight, or just want no-nonsense nutrition advice, this episode has something for you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you find yourself saying, "This is hard" when it comes to healthy eating or staying consistent with your goals? In this empowering episode of The Nutrition Couch, dietitians Susie Burrell and Leanne Ward dive into the uncomfortable truths behind why change feels difficult—and what to do about it. They break down: Why "hard" often just means "emotionally uncomfortable" How to reframe your mindset to stop self-sabotaging progress The top five foods they wish all clients would eat more often A brilliant high-protein, budget-friendly lunch find in Woolworths Everything you need to know about protein powders: who needs them, how to use them, and why they’re not just for gym junkies This episode is your wake-up call and reset in one. If you've hit a plateau or feel stuck in a cycle of "trying but not doing," this conversation will help you shift gears, reframe your mindset, and take action that actually sticks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s leading dietitians, Susie Burrell and Leanne Ward, delve into a pressing health concern: the increasing incidence of aggressive cancers, such as bowel and breast cancer, among young adults. They explore recent research findings, discuss potential lifestyle contributors, and emphasize the importance of early detection and routine health screenings. Also Featured: A novel approach to structuring weekly meal plans from a new diet study. A review of a popular new winter porridge. Listener Q&A: The role of fiber powders in maintaining gut health. Why Listen? This episode sheds light on a concerning health trend affecting younger populations and offers actionable insights into prevention and early detection. Whether you’re in your 20s or 30s, or have loved ones who are, this discussion is crucial for informed health decisions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you’re dealing with a fussy toddler, a snack-obsessed primary schooler or a constantly-hungry teen, feeding kids well can feel like a full-time job. In this special bonus episode of The Nutrition Couch, Susie and Leanne dive deep into the real-life challenges of kids’ nutrition—from daily battles over veggies and treat overload to protein-poor lunchboxes and after-school hunger meltdowns. To celebrate the release of their brand new 200-page eBook Your Kids, Their Food, Susie and Leanne are unpacking: Why fussy eating is more normal than you think—and how to fix it The treat trap: how ultra-processed foods sneak into kids’ diets daily Why your child’s lunchbox might be causing late-day overeating Smart swaps for toddlers, primary kids and teens to fuel them better Practical strategies that actually work (and stories from their own kitchens) Whether you’re a parent, carer or just someone trying to help kids develop healthy habits for life, this episode is packed with relatable advice and expert strategies. Grab the new eBook Your Kids, Their Food now at thenutritioncouch.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Nutrition Couch, Leanne and Susie dive deep into the world of supplements, uncovering what you actually need at every stage of life. From the essential proteins to fiber, magnesium, and more, they share expert insights on how to tailor your supplementation to your age and health needs. The episode covers common supplement myths, why balance matters, and how to avoid falling for ultra-processed products marketed as ‘healthy.’ Plus, get tips on how to navigate the overwhelming supplement choices in stores and online. Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or 40s+, understanding what your body needs at each age is crucial for maintaining health and vitality. Tune in and learn how to make informed choices for a healthier you at every age.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.