Herbs & Spices for Better Health: What to Know - Ask a Nutritionist

Had your gallbladder removed and not sure what’s next? In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, dietitians Leah Kleinschrodt and Teresa Wagner explain how to support your digestion, balance bile flow, and feel comfortable again after gallbladder surgery. Learn what to eat (and what to avoid), how to use enzymes and bitters for better digestion, and why small, balanced meals can make all the difference. From gentle soups to protein shakes and healthy fats, this is your guide to thriving without a gallbladder.

Can you enjoy Halloween candy without the sugar crash? In this festive episode of Ask a Nutritionist, registered dietician Alyssa Krejci shares practical, family-friendly strategies to celebrate the holiday without the post-candy meltdown. Learn how to balance real food with sweets, create fun non-candy traditions, and keep kids (and parents!) energized all night long. From balanced dinners and creative snack platters to the Teal Pumpkin Project, these tips make Halloween a little healthier, without losing the fun.

If you’ve been struggling with unexplained headaches, hives, heartburn, or itching, histamine intolerance might be the hidden cause. In this episode, dietitians Melanie Beasley and Britni Vincent explain what histamine intolerance is, why it happens, and how to start feeling better. Learn how foods, stress, hormones, and gut health all play a role - and what simple changes can bring real relief.

Ever wonder if that sprinkle of cinnamon or dash of turmeric does more than just flavor your food? In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, Amy Crum, RD, unpacks the powerful health benefits of everyday herbs and spices. Learn how these kitchen staples can support blood sugar balance, reduce inflammation, boost heart health, and even improve mood. Amy shares simple ways to add more herbs and spices to your meals, tips for storing them, and how to spot quality products when you shop.

Registered dietitian Leah Kleinschrodt sits down with longtime client Mary McCormick to share a heartfelt, practical look at caregiving through Parkinson’s - what day-to-day symptoms really look like and how real-food meals plus targeted supports helped Mary care for her late husband while protecting her own health. You’ll hear honest lessons about stress, sleep, meds, and the mind–body connection, along with time-saving cooking tips, how to build a resilient routine, and why “eat like your grandmother” still works. If you are a caregiver for a spouse, parent, child, or any other person you love, then this talk will give you the gift of hope, understanding, and achievable next steps. 

Ever wondered when you should take your supplements, or if timing really matters? In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, registered dietitian Britni Vincent shares simple, practical strategies to get the most out of your vitamins and minerals. Learn the best times to take key supplements, which ones work better with food, how to avoid common absorption mistakes, and easy tips to stick with your routine so you can truly benefit from every capsule.

Cold and flu season doesn’t have to mean endless sick days! In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, licensed nutritionist Kara Carper and registered dietitian Brandy Buro unpack common immunity myths and share what really works to keep your body strong. They highlight the everyday foods and lifestyle habits that build lasting immune resilience. Tune in for practical, real-food strategies that support your health year-round.

Intermittent fasting is everywhere right now - on podcasts, social media, and in books - but is it right for you? In this Ask a Nutritionist episode, Leah Kleinschrodt, registered dietitian at Nutritional Weight & Wellness, breaks down the research, shares real-world insights from her clients, and explains the potential benefits and drawbacks of different fasting methods.

Tired of the 5:30 p.m. dinner scramble? In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, dietitians (and busy moms) Leah Kleinschrodt and Teresa Wagner share tips to make healthy weeknight meals doable. From quick meal planning and smart grocery shortcuts to batch-cooking proteins, sheet-pan suppers, and even fun "snackle-box" dinners, you’ll get practical ideas to feed your family well without the stress.

Amino acids are more than just a fitness buzzword - they’re the building blocks your body needs for muscle, mood, energy, and recovery. In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, dietician Teresa Wagner explains the difference between essential and non-essential amino acids, how to meet your protein needs through real food, and when supplements like whey protein, collagen, or creatine might be helpful. Learn how amino acids support your metabolism, immune system, sleep, and more, and walk away with practical guidelines to fuel your body at any age.