Part 3: Perimenopause 101: How and Why Your Cycle Starts to Change

Feel like your metabolism is broken? You’re not alone - and it’s not hopeless. In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, licensed nutritionists Kara Carper and Brandy Buro debunk metabolism myths and walk you through real, doable steps to reset and repair a sluggish metabolism and take back control of your weight. 

Ever wondered where dietitians turn for trusted nutrition advice during pregnancy, postpartum, and when feeding their little ones? In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, Leah Kleinschrodt shares top resources recommended by multiple dietitians at Nutritional Weight & Wellness. From books and blogs to social media accounts and expert tips, we’re covering the best go-to guides for nourishing both moms and kids. Whether you’re expecting, breastfeeding, or navigating mealtime with toddlers, this episode is packed with practical, real-food wisdom to support you every step of the way!

It might be water retention. In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition, Kara Carper and Brandy Buro break down what water weight really is, what causes it - from salty foods to hormone changes - and how to naturally reduce it. Learn real-food solutions to minimize swelling, support circulation, and feel more comfortable in your body.

Need faster, healthier weeknight dinners? Chef and culinary nutrition educator Marianne Jurayj shares easy kitchen shortcuts to help you get nutritious meals on the table without stress. From prepping proteins ahead to using your slow cooker, instant pot, and air fryer, she’s got practical tips to make healthy eating doable—even on the busiest nights.

In this final episode of our 3-part series on menstrual health, we’re diving into the later menstruating years - aka perimenopause. If your once-predictable cycle has become irregular, heavier, shorter, or totally unpredictable, you’re not alone - and you’re not imagining things. Licensed nutritionists Kara Carper and Leah Kleinschrodt unpack what’s actually happening with your hormones during perimenopause, why symptoms like sleep struggles, mood swings, and heavier periods can show up, and how nutrition can help you feel more balanced through the transition.

Ever feel like life just gets in the way of eating healthy? You’re not alone. In this Ask a Nutritionist episode, licensed dietitian Amy Crum breaks down the biggest challenges- emotional eating, cravings, lack of time - and shares real-life tips to stay on track. From quick meal ideas to smart planning for social events, Amy's got practical, doable advice to help you eat well, even when life gets chaotic.

Thinking about meeting with a dietitian but not sure what to expect? In this episode, licensed dietitians Melanie Beasley and Britni Vincent break down what really happens in a nutrition appointment - from how dietitians are trained, to the common reasons people come to see us, to what makes our approach different from quick-fix diets and generic plans.

Got young athletes in your life? In this episode of Dishing Up Nutrition’s Ask a Nutritionist, Registered Dietitian Teresa Wagner tackles a great question from a mom wondering how to fuel her active teens. Teresa dives into what real food nutrition looks like for young athletes - from muscle-building proteins and energizing carbs to hormone-supporting healthy fats. She also shares snack ideas, hydration tips, and smart supplement options (plus a few not-so-great trends she’s seeing on the sidelines!). Whether your kid is on the field, in the gym, or just loves to move, this episode is packed with practical, doable ways to help them feel and play their best.

In this informative episode, registered dieticians Britni Vincent and Brandy Buro explain why your gut microbiome—home to trillions of microbes—impacts everything from digestion and immune function to mental health and even weight management. Learn how to identify signs of poor gut health beyond just digestive symptoms, including skin issues, joint pain, anxiety, and food cravings. The hosts share practical strategies for resetting your gut through real food choices, key probiotic-rich foods, and therapeutic supplements.

On this week's episode of Ask a Nutritionist, our dietitian Britni Vincent tackles the timely topic of enjoying brunch without suffering from that dreaded post-meal fatigue. As popular brunch holidays like Easter and Mother's Day approach, Britni shares the secret to sidestepping a food coma through balanced portions and mindful eating, and will show you how to craft a balanced brunch plate that keeps you energized throughout the day and prevents that post-brunch crash. Tune in to our latest episode for a nourishing look at keeping your meals light and lively!