What We Actually Know About the Microbiome with Dr. Anissa Armet, PhD, RD (ep – 95)

The gut microbiome is everywhere right now, but with new research emerging all the time, it can be hard to know what information is worth your time.In this episode, host Dr. Ginger Hultin sits down with Dr. Anissa Armet, PhD, RD, a dietitian and researcher specializing in the gut microbiome, for an honest look at what we know about gut health and what we’re still figuring out. They break down what the microbiome is, what your gut microbes do for you, and why there’s still no universal definition of a “healthy” gut microbiome. Lastly, the conversation gets practical, asking: How much fiber do you really need? When does a supplement make sense? Do fermented foods live up to the hype? And are prebiotics and probiotics right for me?If you’ve ever wondered how to support your gut microbiome or struggled to separate gut health science from the latest trend, this episode offers a place to start.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:02:36] What the gut microbiome actually is[00:05:19] Can you define a "healthy" or “unhealthy” microbiome[00:08:12] Gut disease vs. gut microbiome: the chicken-and-egg question[00:12:13] Building a nutritional strategy for your microbiome[00:15:27] Fiber supplements: when they help and when food comes first[00:18:10] Fiber maxing and why ramping up slowly matters[00:19:55] Do fermented foods live up to the hype?[00:21:00] Prebiotics, probiotics, and what the research supports[00:22:37] The one place to start with your gut healthConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Anissa Armet on Instagram or LinkedIn Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

Kids' nutrition conversations usually center on what a child eats, but perhaps the how, the why, and the when are even more important… In this episode, Dr. Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, CSO, welcomes back Jennifer Anderson, MSPH, RDN, the registered dietitian behind Kids Eat in Color, for a conversation about children's eating behavior. Jennifer explains what actually counts as picky eating, how the label can stick to a child's identity, and what separates everyday selective eating from ARFID (avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder). She also makes the interesting case for focusing on hyper-palatable foods rather than the ultra-processed debate, and shares how you can decide whether a food headline deserves your attention.Tune in and walk away with practical language for the dinner table and a reminder that as a parent, you got this.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:02:46] The biggest barrier families face with feeding right now[00:04:34] What picky eating actually means, and when it's something more[00:05:34] Why "picky eater" can become a child's identity[00:07:39] ARFID, screening tools, and advocating for your child[00:11:49] Hyperpalatable foods vs. the ultra-processed conversation[00:14:41] A filter for food fear, headlines, and misinformation[00:17:37] Screens, distraction, and what kids miss at mealtime[00:18:51] How to think about supplements for kids[00:20:51] Why parent confidence is part of good nutritionMentioned in this episode: ARFID & Extreme Picky Eating Screener for Kids Connect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Jennifer Anderson on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

When it comes to feeding the kids in our lives, the advice and strong opinions never stop. So how do you know what to prioritize? In this episode, host Dr. Ginger Hultin is joined by Jennifer Anderson, MSPH, RDN, the registered dietitian and public health expert behind Kids Eat in Color. Jennifer walks through her Health Impact Tiers, a framework built around one important question: what will have the broadest impact on this child's health? Together they move through the tiers, from making sure kids get enough energy, protein, sleep, and movement, to fiber, variety, and micronutrients, all the way to the hot-button topics like food dyes and organic foods. This episode leaves you with a repeatable, flexible way to confidently filter through the next headline that comes your way.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:02:30] Tier one: making sure kids are getting enough energy[00:04:07] Tier two: protein needs, food reactions, sleep, and movement[00:06:37] Tier three: why fiber deserves the spotlight[00:08:42] Sugar-sweetened beverages, juice, and milk alternatives[00:11:36] Jennifer's new book and giving parents their confidence back[00:15:15] Tiers four and five: variety, micronutrients, and added sugar[00:17:16] How to run your own at-home food experiment[00:18:14] What Red 40 actually is and where it ranks[00:19:30] Tier six: the identity tier and the hottest topics[00:21:03] Jennifer's core messageConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Jennifer Anderson on Instagram, LinkedIn or her Website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

GLP-1 medications are everywhere right now, but the confusion around them runs just as deep as the excitement. In this episode, Dr. Ginger Hultin sits down with Joe Zucchi, PA and clinical supervisor at Transition Medical Weight Loss, for a deep dive into everything you've been wondering about these medications.Joe walks through the surprising history of GLP-1s, breaks down exactly how they work in the body, and tackles the stigma that still surrounds obesity medicine. The conversation covers real clinical data on side effects, including the truth behind the cancer warnings, what the research shows about muscle and bone loss, and practical strategies for managing GI symptoms. Joe also shares what's coming next in the pipeline, from triple-agonist medications to once-monthly injections.Whether you're considering a GLP-1, currently taking one, or just want the facts, this episode is designed to be a shame-free, evidence-based resource you can trust.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:02:35] The long history behind GLP-1 medications[00:06:03] GLP-1, GIP, and the evolution to dual and triple agonists[00:08:18] Pushing back on the stigma in obesity medicine[00:09:56] What happens when someone comes off the medication[00:13:04] Inside the clinical trial process and what FDA approval requires[00:19:30] Pancreatitis and thyroid cancer concerns, explained[00:21:30] What the research shows about muscle and bone loss[00:25:11] GI side effects and practical ways to manage them[00:28:50] The future of obesity medicine and what's in the pipelineConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Joseph Zucchi on LinkedIn or Website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

Heart disease is the number one cause of death for both women and men, yet so much confusion still surrounds it.In this episode, Ginger sits down with Angela Hartley, RN, a cardiac rehab specialist, personal trainer, and nutritional therapist, for a conversation that reframes heart health as something empowering rather than scary. Together, they unpack the numbers you actually need to know, the tests worth advocating for, and the truth about how eggs, sodium, and saturated fat impact cardiovascular health. Whether you're being proactive or finding your footing after a cardiac event, this episode explains why your heart is not something to fear, it's something to understand.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:02:36] Overview of heart health risk factors and cardiac events[00:03:42] What to get tested for: blood pressure, A1c, and cholesterol[00:09:31] How heart attack symptoms differ in women vs. men[00:11:39] Myth-busting eggs, sodium, and saturated fat[00:13:48] How different foods affect different labs (LDL vs. triglycerides)[00:19:43] Recognizing when something feels "off" in your body[00:21:39] Returning to exercise safely after a cardiac event[00:25:42] Where to start with nutrition after a cardiac event[00:29:50] Angela's biggest takeaway: know your numbersConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Angela on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook or her Website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

Everyone's talking about protein. Not everyone's getting it right. So the question is: how much of the conversation is science, and how much of it is noise?Dr. Michael Ormsbee, researcher, endurance athlete, and protein expert from Florida State University, is back with host Ginger Hultin to give protein the evidence-based conversation it deserves. In this episode, they cover how protein actually functions in the body and why hitting your daily protein target matters more than most people realize. Dr. Ormsbee shares what his decades of research reveal about how much protein you actually need, why the recommended daily amounts have recently been updated. They also tackle the plant vs. animal debate, food vs. supplements, and whether protein timing actually moves the needle.So hit play; your answers are just one click away!In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:00:04] Why protein is having such a big cultural moment[00:03:50] How protein works in the body and its role in muscle, metabolism, and recovery[00:07:35] Resistance training, protein, and preserving muscle during weight loss[00:09:23] How much protein you actually need[00:12:30] Plant-based vs. animal-based protein, and food vs. supplements[00:18:34] Protein timing and how to think about tracking your intake[00:21:32] Staying intentional about protein without becoming obsessive[00:23:14] Prioritizing fitness and building sustainable habitsConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Dr. Michael Ormsbee on Instagram, LinkedIn or Website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

If you have ever pushed hard in the gym and still felt like you were spinning your wheels, the problem might not be your training. It might be everything that happens after.In this episode, Dr. Ginger Hultin sits down with Dr. Michael Ormsbee, Professor at Florida State University and Executive Director of the Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine, to dig into what exercise recovery actually means and how to do it well. Together, they chat about how to approach post-workout nutrition and protein timing, build a smarter hydration strategy, and use sleep as a muscle recovery tool. They also tackle the surprising truth about eating before bed, and what the research actually says.So if you are looking for science-backed strategies to recover faster and come back stronger for your next workout, give this episode a listen.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:00:05] Introduction to recovery and why it matters [00:02:40] The "Toyota of health and fitness" philosophy[00:04:05] What's happening in your muscles and bones during recovery[00:05:55] Recovery nutrition: how to build a plate that supports repair[00:13:35] Myth Bust: "If I'm not sore, I didn't work hard enough"[00:16:16] Hydration for recovery: why most people are starting behind[00:20:35] Sleep as a recovery pillar and why it deserves top priority[00:22:56] Pre-sleep protein: what the research actually shows[00:28:24] Where to start when it all feels overwhelmingMentioned in this episode The Institute of Sports Sciences and MedicineMenopause Episodes with Dr. Wendy Ellis How to Support Your Body Through Menopause (ep – 85)What Women Should Be Testing in Midlife (ep – 86)Connect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Dr. Michael Ormsbee on Instagram, LinkedIn or website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

Would you believe that nutrition for weight health is not about following the strictest diet, cutting the most calories, or chasing one perfect macro? For Ashley Koff, RD, acclaimed weight-health expert, it is about understanding what your body needs to function better. In this episode, she sits down once again with Dr. Ginger Hultin to unpack what nutrition really looks like when the goal is supporting weight health. Together, they explore why better nutrition goes beyond diet labels, calorie counting, or one-size-fits-all advice. Ashley shares how timing, quality, digestion, and total nutrition all play a role, while exploring today’s biggest conversations around protein, fiber, GLP-1 medications, liquid nutrition, and food satisfaction.If you’ve ever wondered what to eat for weight health, this episode offers a more personalized and nuanced way to think about nutrition. In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:02:34] Ashley's four pillars of Better Nutrition[00:03:53] How to navigate popular diet trends[00:07:17] Fiber, GLP-1 medications, and why timing and amount matter[00:13:10] GLP-1 side effects and the nutrients most at risk[00:16:33] Why liquid nutrition can be a game-changer for GLP-1s[00:17:16] The role of food enjoyment and satisfaction in your health journey[00:21:54] How to successfully transition off GLP-1 medications[00:23:33] Understanding protein and getting back to what your body needs[00:26:32] Ashley's book and her approach to weight healthConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Ashley Koff on Instagram, LinkedIn or Website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

The body is complex, and the mechanics are anything but simple. So why does that so often get forgotten in conversations about weight loss?In this episode, Dr. Ginger Hultin sits down with Ashley Koff, an acclaimed weight-health expert and practitioner with more than 25 years of experience, to break down the mechanics of weight change and why the conversation needs to move beyond the scale. For Ashley, weight is a signal, not a personal failure or a simple math equation. Together, she and Ginger unpack why BMI and “calories in, calories out” often miss the bigger picture, and why true health requires looking at digestion, hydration, blood sugar, hormones, sleep, muscle, fat, bone, and daily lifestyle patterns.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or discouraged by the weight loss conversation, this episode brings both science and compassion to the table, offering a clearer starting point for understanding your own journey toward weight health.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:00:04] Why weight loss keeps having cultural moments[00:02:50] The difference between weight loss and weight health[00:06:15] What the weight health ecosystem actually includes[00:10:24] GLP-1 medications and what the research actually says[00:14:11] Caloric windows, meal timing, and your body's recovery phase[00:18:16] What hydration really means and why it's more than drinking water[00:20:12] Blood sugar, metabolism, and the weight health hormones[00:24:59] How to think about GLP-1 medications[00:26:50] How to reframe your weight health journeyConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Ashley Koff on Instagram, LinkedIn or Website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties. 

Midlife health can feel confusing, especially when symptoms are dismissed, testing is overwhelming, or you are told everything looks “normal.”In this episode, Dr. Ginger Hultin once again sits down with Dr. Wendy Ellis, a naturopathic physician and educator specializing in women’s health, to explore how women can better understand, test, and advocate for their health through the menopause transition and beyond. Together, they unpack how to determine which lab markers matter for you in midlife, why more testing is not always better, and how to think about testing thyroid health, cholesterol, blood sugar, vitamin D, ferritin, and more. Dr. Ellis also shares practical insight on bone density, cardiovascular risk, and how women can more confidently advocate for the care they deserve.So hit play if you want a clearer understanding of testing and personalized care during menopause.In this episode, we’ll cover: [00:00:04] Why personalized testing matters in women’s health[00:02:34] How testing can empower patients, but also create overwhelm[00:05:39] The key lab tests to consider in midlife[00:06:48] Nutritional testing, vitamin D, ferritin, omega-3s, and homocysteine[00:14:07] What a DEXA scan measures and why bone health testing matters[00:16:40] Why cardiovascular risk rises after menopause[00:19:04] How to advocate for better testing, referrals, and follow-up[00:23:35] What to do when symptoms are dismissed as aging or stressConnect with Dr. Ginger Hultin on Instagram, LinkedIn or her website. Connect with Dr. Wendy Ellis on LinkedIn or Website. Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast, is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should seek the recommendation of a medical professional regarding a medical condition or treatment or before starting a new nutrition and/or health regimen. Orgain, LLC is providing these episodes on an "as is" basis and makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the podcast episodes. Orgain, LLC nor any of its directors, employees or other representatives will be liable for damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this document. This is a comprehensive limitation of liability that applies to all damages of any kind, including (without limitation) compensatory, direct, indirect or consequential damages, loss of data, income or profit, loss of or damage to property and claims of third parties.