Dishing Up Nutrition

In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, licensed nutritionist Kara Carper explores the connection between depression and gut bacteria, explaining how the gut-brain axis, serotonin production, inflammation, and microbiome diversity may influence mood and mental health. She shares current research on the link between depression and the gut microbiome, along with practical nutrition steps to support healthier gut bacteria.
 

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers, and research continues to show the important role nutrition and gut health play in prevention and recovery. In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, Kara Carper and Brandy Buro explain how diet, inflammation, and the microbiome influence colon health. Learn practical food strategies that support digestive health, including increasing fiber, prioritizing whole foods, and limiting ultra-processed foods.

What causes shingles to flare up later in life? In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, registered dietitian Amy Crum explains how the shingles virus can reactivate when the immune system is weakened. You’ll learn common shingles risk factors and simple nutrition and lifestyle strategies that may help support immune health, including the role of vitamin D, zinc, quality sleep, stress management, and balanced blood sugar.

In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, dietitians Melanie Beasley and Britni Vincent discuss what causes kidney stones, warning signs to look out for, and how nutrition plays a crucial role in prevention. Find out why hydration is the most vital factor, how sugar, soda, sodium, and ultra-processed foods increase your risk, and why a balanced, real-food diet with enough magnesium and calcium can help protect your kidneys. If you’ve had a kidney stone before or want to lower your risk, this episode shares practical strategies to help prevent them from coming back.

In this Ask a Nutritionist episode, dietitian Alyssa Krejci explains the difference between fish oil and cod liver oil and how to choose the right one for your needs. Learn how omega-3 fats support heart, brain, and inflammation health, why EPA and DHA matter, and when cod liver oil’s added vitamin A and vitamin D may or may not be helpful. Alyssa also shares simple tips for choosing a quality omega-3 supplement and getting more omega-3s from foods like salmon, sardines, and mackerel.