Nutrition for Noobs: Nutrition Science, Plant Based Eating and Beginners Nutrition Tips

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 ho...

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 a...

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 w...

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 a...

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 MVP Simple prep habits for soaking, grinding, and storing Easy recipes: chia...

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 stocks Learn about its real collagen content, amino acids, and mineral be...

Is collagen just hype, or truly a health powerhouse for skin, joints, and more? 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 joints Choose between collagen supplements vs food sources Simple, effective diets and lifestyle strategies to support collagen natural...

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 Highlights Plant‑Based Nutriti...

Looking for easy pantry stocking tips , healthy pantry essentials , or ways to support a plant-forward lifestyle ? 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...

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...

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. Di...

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 re...

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 market...

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 Chocolate How cacao flavanols boost nitric oxide, aiding blood flow,...

Dive deep into the fascinating world of cacao, chocolate, and superfoods in this enlightening episode with cacao expert María Mancini Cenobio. 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...

Kevin and Michelle revisit the biggest food trends of 2024 , exploring what truly stuck—and what fizzled out. They analyze: The real impact of plant-based eating , mindful of when it's beneficial and when it’s just hype The rise of food transparency , clean labels, and traceable sourcing in mainstream markets The comeback of heritage grains , fermented foods, and gut-friendly favorites Where v...

We're back after our short hiatus! Hosts Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton (Holistic Nutritionist) and Kevin Harries (the noob) dive back into the podcast with: A recap of what’s been happening behind the scenes and why the break Fresh nutrition and wellness updates—new trends, research highlights, and practical tips What Michelle’s been exploring lately in holistic and plant-forward nutrition Kevin’s...

Kevin goes solo to share his delicious, dairy-free, egg-free vegan Caesar salad dressing recipe : a perfect plant-based twist on a classic favourite. Learn how to make a creamy Caesar dressing using hummus, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and more. Plus, hear a quick summer dad joke, healthy eating encouragement, and tips for building your ultimate kale salad. Whether you're veg...

Michelle (the resident nutrition nerd) takes over as host and shares her top kitchen tools for stress‑free healthy cooking . Discover why a sharp culinary knife should be your first investment—then explore essential gadgets like avocado knives, microplanes, mandolins, air fryers, pressure cookers, salad spinners, and even veggie‑preserving containers. Whether you're just starting a whole‑foods...

Hosts Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton and Kevin Harries unveil simple, creative plant-based ingredient substitutions for everyday cooking and baking: Dairy-free swaps : milk alternatives like oat, almond, and coconut plus yogurt and cheese options Egg replacements : flax and chia “eggs,” applesauce, mashed banana, and commercial binders Oil alternatives : applesauce, nut butters, mashed avocado, plant-ba...

Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton (Registered Holistic Nutritionist) and Kevin Harries (Noob) tackle one of the most frustrating aspects of summer – hay fever, seasonal allergies, and how nutrition can help you finally breathe easier : Allergy symptom triggers : ragweed, pollen, itchy eyes, and sneezing explained Nutrition-focused coping strategies : anti-inflammatory foods, immune‑supporting nutrients, na...

In this bite-sized Summer Shorts episode of Nutrition for Noobs , Kevin and Michelle dig into the surprising powerhouse that is nutritional yeast (aka nooch). Learn what it is, how it’s made, and why it’s beloved by plant-based eaters. Discover how nutritional yeast adds savoury umami flavour, boosts your B-vitamin intake, including B12, and works as a cheesy topping for popcorn, pasta, and more....

In this continuation of episode 24, co-hosts Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton (RHN) and Kevin Harries explore Blue Zones ( regions where people live exceptionally long, healthy lives) with a focus on the Power Nine lifestyle habits identified by Dan Buettner: Blue Zones deep dive : Learn what places like Okinawa, Sardinia, and Costa Rica share in common The Power Nine habits : Discover the nine cornerston...

Kevin and holistic nutritionist Michelle dive into time-tested longevity insights from the world’s longest-lived communities—those studied by Alexander Leaf (via Healthy at 100 ) such as the Abkhazians, Vilcabambans, Hunzas, and Okinawans. Discover key foundations for a long, healthy life: The power of strong social bonds and respect for elders —“loneliness kills faster than cigarettes.” A whole-f...

Michelle answers a listener’s question about the nutritional differences among unrefined carbohydrates like white rice, brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grains. She explains why choosing unrefined grains is more important than obsessing over nutrient profiles and highlights the benefits of rotating a variety of whole grains for gut health and nutrient diversity. She also shares practical tips o...