The Afternoon Slump Starts at Lunch - Ask a Nutritionist

PCOS has a new name: polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, or PMOS. Registered dietitians Melanie Beasley and Britni Vincent explain what the new name reveals about this complex hormonal and metabolic condition, including common symptoms, insulin resistance, irregular cycles, and fertility challenges. Learn how real-food nutrition and lifestyle changes can support blood sugar, metabolic health, and better symptom management.

Postpartum hair loss can be alarming, but is it normal, and can nutrition help? Registered dietitian Amy Crum explains why hair shedding often increases after pregnancy, when it may signal another issue, and how adequate calories, protein, iron, healthy fats, and other key nutrients support healthy hair growth. Plus, learn what breastfeeding moms should know about supplements and when it’s time to talk with a healthcare provider.

After struggling with unexplained symptoms and getting few answers, Marlys began to wonder whether food could be part of the problem. On this week's episode, she joins registered dietitian Melanie Beasley to share how identifying histamine intolerance and changing her diet helped her find lasting relief. Hear the practical strategies, support, and real-food habits that helped Marlys feel better and gave her the tools to maintain those changes five years later.

Do your protein needs change as you get older? Registered dietitian Brandy Buro explains why adults may need more protein as they age to maintain muscle, strength, and independence. Learn how much protein to aim for, why spreading it throughout the day matters, and how protein paired with strength training can support healthy aging, especially during and after menopause.

What makes grass-fed beef different, and does the way we raise cattle really matter? Registered dietitian Leah Kleinschrodt talks with Matt Maier of Thousand Hills about grass-fed versus grain-fed beef, confusing food labels, nutrition, regenerative grazing, and the health of soil and animals. Learn what to look for when buying beef and how more informed food choices can support your health, farmers, animals, and the environment.

Hitting an energy wall every afternoon? Registered dietitian nutritionist Caroline Wilcox explains how skipping lunch or eating an unbalanced meal can lead to blood sugar swings, brain fog, cravings, and the dreaded 3PM crash. Learn how a balanced lunch with protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates, plus hydration and a real break from your desk, can help you stay energized and focused all afternoon.

Does ADHD make eating feel harder than it should? ADHD can affect everything from hunger cues and meal planning to food fixations, cravings, sensory preferences, and food noise. Registered dietitians Leah Kleinschrodt and Teresa Wagner explain how simple strategies like consistent meal times and balanced nutrition can make eating more manageable while supporting steady energy, focus, and a well-fueled brain, without striving for perfection.

Feeling exhausted no matter how much you sleep? Registered dietitian Alyssa Krejci explains what people commonly call “adrenal fatigue” and how chronic stress, blood sugar swings, poor sleep, under-eating, and nutrient deficiencies may contribute to ongoing fatigue. Learn how balanced meals, consistent eating, hydration, quality sleep, and key nutrients can support steady energy, a healthy stress response, and help you feel more resilient throughout the day.

If headaches or migraines keep disrupting your life, it may be time to look beyond the pain and ask what’s triggering them. Registered dietitians Melanie Beasley and Britni Vincent explore how blood sugar swings, dehydration, stress, sleep, hormones, food sensitivities, and nutrient deficiencies may all contribute to recurring headaches and migraines. Learn practical nutrition and lifestyle strategies to help identify your personal triggers, reduce your “migraine load,” and support lasting relief.

What supplements actually help you sleep? Registered dietitian Amy Crum explains the science behind today's most popular sleep supplements, including magnesium glycinate, L-theanine, 5-HTP, melatonin, vitamin D, iron, and herbal blends. You'll learn who may benefit from each option, key safety considerations, and how better sleep can improve your mood, energy, brain function, immune health, and weight-loss goals. Amy also explains why identifying the root cause of your sleep struggles is essential to achieving lasting, restorative sleep.