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Ask Leyla: Can I get enough protein from plant-based sources?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My dietitian tells me that as long as I’m eating a broad range of plant protein, I’m getting the requisite essential amino acids making animal protein unnecessary. But will I get enough protein every day eating this way? A:…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: What’s your preferred way to dress a salad?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: What types of salad dressing do you use? Are there any bottled dressings that you prefer? A: There are certain foods I always have on hand and that includes a produce drawer full of salad vegetables. Whether it’s for…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: MNT for Osteoporosis
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I am a 77-year-old woman. On recent bone density test, lumbar spine results range from -2.0 at L4 to -2.9 at L2: left femur neck -2.9, right femur neck -2.6; left forearm -2.6. Can nutritional therapy alone address this,…read more
Categories:Muscle and Bone Health
Leyla Weighs In: Set yourself up for success!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
When it comes to good health practices, we all have the best intentions, right? We try to avoid making excuses to skip exercise, think twice before reaching for another helping of dinner—or a second (or third!) glass of wine, and…read more
Categories:General Medicine
Ask Leyla: Why do veggie smoothies cause stomach discomfort?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: For the past several months, I have been making my husband and myself vegetable smoothies consisting of broccoli or kale, carrots, beets and celery along with a small amount of V-8 juice. I give my husband a 16 ounce…read more
Categories:Digestive Health General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Is soy bad for me?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I read various health newsletters, books, and websites on nutritional advice, and I’d like your opinion on a topic I came across recently. It was one of those click-bait videos whose tagline was: “Which health food you should be…read more
Categories:Food Sensitivity General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Should iron and vitamin C be taken together?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q:Are there some supplements that should not be taken together? I seem to recall reading that supplements containing iron and vitamin C should not be taken together, but I don’t recall why. Can you shed some light on the subject?…read more
Categories:Supplements
Ask Leyla: Help! Why can’t I lose weight post-menopause?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: Any tips for losing weight post-menopause? I eat a healthy diet (salmon 3-4 times a week; no white flour/sugars) and exercise, but cannot lose ten pounds. I never had a weight issue in my entire life until now! A: Here’s the…read more
Categories:Menopause Nutrition and Weight Women’s Health
Ask Leyla: Is Washing Produce Enough?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’m trying to include more fresh produce in my diet, but I’m worried about exposure to pesticides and harmful bacteria. Can you please tell me the best ways to clean fruits and vegetables? A: Fresh produce is an important…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Which matters more—the amount or type of calories you consume?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: What difference does it make if I’m on a low-fat or low-carb diet for weight loss? Isn’t it all about the calories? Don’t I have to burn more calories than I take in? A: It does make a difference what…read more
Categories:Nutrition Controversies
Ask Leyla: What’s your take on low-calorie dieting for weight loss?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I lost about 20 pounds counting calories. I didn’t want to gain it back so I now count the calories needed not to gain it back. Now that I want to lose five more pounds, I lowered my calorie…read more
Categories:Nutrition and Weight
Ask Leyla: Is my doctor recommending too much calcium?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My doctor advised me to take 1,200 mg of calcium daily for bone health. Is this the correct dose? No other vitamins or minerals were mentioned. A: The recommendation made by many doctors to take that dose—or an even…read more
Ask Leyla: What can I do to relieve joint pain?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My mother is otherwise healthy, takes no medications and walks daily for exercise, but she often suffers from joint pain. Is there anything you can recommend to help alleviate her pain? A: Joint pain can occur for many reasons, not…read more
Categories:Arthritis Inflammation Supplements
Ask Leyla: Bariatric surgery side effects
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My daughter had gastric bypass surgery five years ago. She now suffers from gastric reflux and she believes she will have to keep taking proton-pump inhibitors for life. What could she use for an alternative? A: The gastric bypass,…read more
Categories:Nutrition and Weight Obesity
Ask Leyla: How can I reintroduce foods after a period of hypoallergenic diet?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve eliminated my food allergy foods for a period of six months on the advice of my practitioner. What happens now? Will I ever be able to eat those foods again? A: Unlike immediate IGE-mediated food allergies, IGG foods…read more
Categories:Food Sensitivity
How can I encourage someone to live a healthier lifestyle?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: How do you advise a 70-year-old to start a healthier life when they have horrible eating habits and don’t move around much? A: The simple answer? You don’t advise them to do anything. Unless of course, they’re looking for…read more
Categories:Exercise General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: Identifying your stage of change
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
How close are you to making a change in your lifestyle, behavior, or habits? How you eat, how you move, your outlook, has everything to do with your health status and any expected outcomes for success. Are you even considering…read more
Categories:General Medicine General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Should I drink liquids with a meal?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: Is drinking liquids with meals bad for digestion? I routinely have a pint of water with my main meal and continue drinking water throughout the day. A: Over much of my career in nutrition, I’ve seen recommendations for fluid…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Help! My weight is creeping up
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’m a 58-year-old female and my height is 5’9”. Three years ago, I lost 20 pounds – reaching my weight goal of 150 pounds. But over the last six months, about six pounds have crept back. I eat practically zero…read more
Categories:Nutrition and Weight
Leyla Weighs In: Maintaining food safety at home
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
The importance of food safety cannot be overstated. Every year there are an estimated 48 million cases of foodborne illness. Proper handling of food is critical to keeping it safe to eat. Preventing cross-contamination is key. When checking out at…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: The importance of maintaining muscle mass
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
As we age, the risk of sarcopenia increases. Sarcopenia is diminishing muscle mass associated with older age. We’re finding out it has less to do with age and much more to do with inadequate high biological value protein intake (primarily…read more
Categories:Muscle and Bone Health
Ask Leyla: What is the relationship between hormones and weight loss?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: One of the weight loss systems advertised on radio claims that you have to balance hormones in order to lose weight. What exactly does this mean? Which hormones are involved the most in weight loss (or gain), and how can…read more
Categories:Hypothyroidism Nutrition and Weight Obesity
Ask Leyla: What’s the difference between common inflammatory markers?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My husband’s high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is 1.62 and his homocysteine is 13.1. If they both measure inflammation, why is one result normal and the other one high? A: While both hs-CRP and homocysteine are markers of inflammation, they…read more
Categories:Inflammation
Ask Leyla: What’s causing my low testosterone?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve been told I have lower-than-normal testosterone levels. Can you shed some light on what might cause that and if there is anything I can do to help raise my testosterone levels? A: Many things can lower testosterone levels,…read more
Categories:Men’s Health
Ask Leyla: Why is my vitamin D still low?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve been taking a daily vitamin D supplement for a long time and my levels are still low. Can you offer any advice as to why that might be? A: There are many reasons serum vitamin D levels remain…read more
Categories:Supplements
Ask Leyla: How can I maximize my sun exposure to get the recommended amount of vitamin D?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve read that twenty minutes of sun exposure will give us 10,000 to 20,000 IV of vitamin D. If I am fully clothed with a long-sleeved shirt am I still getting 20,000 IU? Short-sleeved shirt? How about without a shirt?…read more
Categories:Skin and Hair Supplements
Leyla Weighs In: The Dangers of Artificial Sweeteners
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Breaking the sugar habit can be tough, but replacing sugar with artificial sweeteners carries its own challenges and risks. By making the change to artificial sweeteners, we’re not really breaking the sugar habit. Instead, we’re using a substitute that tastes…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: Fat—our primary fuel
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
At this point in time, and in science, we know that low-fat diets aren’t helpful. Indeed, they’re harmful. The Dietary Guidelines which encourage the substitution of fats with carbohydrates have caused our rampant epidemics of obesity and type 2 diabetes….read more
Categories:Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Problems Alzheimer’s General Nutrition Ketogenic Diet Nutrition and Weight
Ask Leyla: Does it matter whether I consume protein before or after exercise?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’m a 70-year-old man and I eat well and exercise. I’m curious about protein supplements. I drink a protein mix about an hour before I work out. Is it better to use whey powder or a plant-based powder as…read more
Categories:Exercise
Leyla Weighs In: It’s Food Allergy Awareness Month – What is allergic addiction?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Based on evidence in the scientific literature and case studies of my patients over the years, I can say with certainty that as many as 60 percent of the population suffers from hidden food allergies. According to Alan Gaby, MD, “hidden food…read more
Categories:Allergy
Ask Leyla: Can the order in which I eat my food impact my blood sugar?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve heard about studies that indicate eating your foods in a certain order can impact blood sugar. For example, vegetables first, then fats/proteins, and then starchy carbs to avoid glucose spikes. I’ve also read that drinking a glass of…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Can dietary changes help improve my anxiety?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My husband suffers from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). He has been on antidepressants for a long time but they don’t seem to be helping. Are there any nutritional recommendations to support him? A: Barring any emotional/psychological issues that can…read more
Ask Leyla: When should we give insulin to type 2 diabetics?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: Is it ever a good idea to give insulin to a type 2 diabetic without first testing to see if their pancreatic beta cells are functioning and producing insulin? A: With the exception of administering insulin to a patient…read more
Categories:Diabetes
Leyla Weighs In: What’s behind the rise in high ferritin?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Last week, I discussed possible reasons for low ferritin levels. As with most blood tests, too low or too high isn’t necessarily optimal. Here are some possible reasons for high ferritin levels. This is not an exhaustive list. Too much…read more
Categories:Fatty Liver General Nutrition Supplements
Ask Leyla: What can you tell me about low ferritin?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: According to my latest bloodwork, I have low levels of ferritin. Can you shed some light on what could be causing this and what the health implications are for low ferritin? A: While not an indicator of overt anemia…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Supplements
Leyla Weighs In: Eat more fat!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
There’s a misconception among low-carb dieters. Many people believe a low-carb diet is much higher in protein. Folks are opting for ‘lean’ protein like sirloin steak and grilled chicken breast, keeping fattier portions like rib-eye, ribs, and dark meat poultry…read more
Categories:Nutrition and Weight
Leyla Weighs In: Autoimmune disease is on the rise
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
According to the Lancet, autoimmune disease affects one in ten people globally and it’s now estimated to be growing at a rate of between three to nine percent per year. While the scientific community lacks consensus on how autoimmune disease…read more
Categories:Autoimmune Diseases
Leyla Weighs In: Good soil equals good food
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
March is National Nutrition Month and, needless to say, good nutritious food is essential to a healthy life. Remember that when it comes to animal protein, we eat what our food eats. But it needs to go further than that:…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: How should I prepare for pregnancy?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: What basic supplements and foods should I choose when considering starting a family? It’s not happening just yet, but I want to get my body ready. I understand it may be a good idea to have a checkup and…read more
Categories:Women’s Health
Ask Leyla: What are the health benefits of apple cider vinegar?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve heard that apple cider vinegar is good for your health, although I’m a little unclear on how. I don’t think I’ve ever heard you talk about it—could you discuss its benefits, if any? A: Besides being a favorite…read more
Categories:General Medicine General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: How can I lower my triglycerides?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: You’ve talked about high triglycerides being an important risk factor for heart disease—even more so than cholesterol. What can I do to lower mine? A: Yes, that’s right. It’s not all about cholesterol when it comes to heart disease. High triglycerides are…read more
Categories:Heart Health Metabolic Syndrome
Ask Leyla: What does my elevated LDL say about my heart risk?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I am a 71-year-young man in excellent condition. At my last physical, my HDL was 63, triglycerides 55, and LDL was 173. I’ve been told this is on the high side for LDL. How do I reduce my LDL…read more
Categories:Atherosclerosis Heart Disease Heart Health
Ask Leyla: When it comes to supplements, how much is too much?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I know supplements can go a long way toward helping me maintain optimal health, but I’m a little lost as to the correct dosages. Is it OK to just follow the instructions on the bottle? With regard to my supplement intake,…read more
Categories:Heart Health Liver disease Menopause Supplements
Leyla Weighs In: My tried and true pot roast
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Pot roast is a tried and true comfort dish in my home. And because it’s a low and slow cook, I’ll take the time on the weekend—on a snowy Saturday or Sunday afternoon like we’ve had lately—to get it started…read more
Categories:Recipe
Ask Leyla: What’s your opinion on avocado oil?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: What do you think of avocado oil so widely used today in mayonnaise? A: Avocadoes are a superfood, rich in monounsaturated fats and beneficial plant sterols—that’s the plant’s cholesterol, in case you didn’t know. Avocado oil in its native form…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: Take your thyroid medicine with water, not coffee
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
January is Thyroid Awareness Month! If you have low thyroid and are taking thyroid medicine, you were likely advised to take it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning, preferably 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. This advice…read more
Categories:Endocrinology Hypothyroidism Medications
Leyla Weighs In: Start 2024 with a winning mindset
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
As humans, when it comes to changing a behavior (such as an attempt at self-improvement or establishing a healthy habit) we often start off all gung ho with an “all or nothing” attitude—especially at the start of a new year….read more
Categories:Exercise
Ask Leyla: I’ve been diagnosed with diverticulosis—what foods should I avoid?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I have recently been diagnosed with diverticulosis, and I am researching which foods to avoid and which to eat. However, I’m getting conflicting information. Can you provide some guidance? A: Diverticulosis is very common, especially in those over the…read more
Categories:Digestive Health
Leyla Weighs In: Holiday eating done right!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Sometimes the best way to stick to a diet plan is to break all the rules. Yes, that’s just what I said. The holidays are a perfect time to help you stick to your diet. You just have to follow…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Nutrition and Weight
Leyla Weighs In: Five tips for staying well during the holiday season
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
It’s important to maintain your self-care regimen, especially this time of year when stress levels tend to run high. Here’s how: 1. Eat right: Sugar, white flour, and factory-made trans fats wreak havoc on the immune and cardiovascular systems. Eliminate them…read more
Ask Leyla: What can I do to reduce menstrual cramps?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My granddaughter suffers terrible cramps during her monthly periods. She is 27 years old. I mentioned to her it may have something to do with her diet. Any suggestions? A: Many women are plagued with primary dysmenorrhea, which is the…read more
Categories:Women’s Health
Ask Leyla: What can be done to improve bone mineral density?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My sister is 59 years old and her bone health has progressed to osteoporosis. A year ago she started Fosamax, strontium, calcium, 1000 IU vitamin D, and magnesium among other vitamins including fish oil. She is fairly active every…read more
Categories:Muscle and Bone Health
Ask Leyla: How do I raise my HDL?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve been working on optimizing my cholesterol levels: Total cholesterol: 202 LDL: 150 HDL: 39 Triglycerides: 67 How can I increase my HDL without also increasing my LDL? I exercise regularly and adhere to a low carb, moderate fat diet….read more
Categories:Heart Disease Heart Health
Ask Leyla: Why am I craving fat?—A follow up
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: Recently I emailed you that I had decreased my carbohydrate intake significantly but developed a new obsession: nuts, cheese, and seeds! Well, my co-workers threw me a going-away party and guilted me into eating cake (they were fully aware…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Why am I craving fat?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I used to eat myself into a sugar coma most days of the week, so it came as a pleasant surprise when I did not experience withdrawal symptoms from significantly decreasing my total carbohydrate intake. However, over the past…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: How do I determine my healthy weight?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: How do I determine what’s a healthy weight for me? I’m a 49-year-old female and my height is 5’7”. A: The guidelines for determining a healthy weight is called the HAMWI method, which is typically used in healthcare to…read more
Categories:Nutrition and Weight
Ask Leyla: What are some good sources of BCAAs?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I know that branch chain amino acids (BCAAs) are popular supplements for people who are strength training. But I’m not a huge fan of whey. Are there any other sources of BCAA? A: There is a great misconception that BCAAs are…read more
Categories:Exercise General Nutrition Supplements
Ask Leyla: What is the key to recovery after exercise?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I try to maintain an active lifestyle and am an avid runner. However, I know that distance running can sap my body of important nutrients. After running nine miles and perspiring heavily, what nutrients does my body need to…read more
Categories:Exercise Nutrition and Weight Supplements
Ask Leyla: What’s causing my brittle nails?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My fingernails are so brittle! Do you have any suggestions? A: Onychoschizia, or brittle nails, is more common in women than men according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD). The first thing to find out is what’s…read more
Categories:Skin and Hair
Ask Leyla: When should I get follow-up bloodwork?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve just embarked on my therapeutic diet and supplement program to help correct metabolic abnormalities pertaining to inflammation, blood sugar, and my lipid profile (which is out of whack), as well as micronutrient deficiencies that were found like B12…read more
Categories:General Medicine
Ask Leyla: Do I have to give up eating eggs?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I have a problem with eating eggs lately. After eating them hard-boiled, scrambled, or as an omelet, I’m fine until the next meal a few hours later. Then I get abdominal pain and need to use the restroom. It…read more
Categories:Food Sensitivity
Ask Leyla: Could poor diet be causing ADHD?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My girlfriend eats fast-food at least once a day. Her daughter has been raised with no vegetables, no fruit, packaged chicken nuggets, and tons of soda for the most part since age two. Now 12 years old, she is about…read more
Categories:ADD/ADHD Allergy Digestive Health Food Sensitivity General Nutrition Nutrition and Weight Pediatric Health
Ask Leyla: How do I manage morning hunger with intermittent fasting?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I want to start intermittent fasting (IF), but I’m quite hungry in the morning when I get up—which is early—and especially after my morning exercise. And shouldn’t I be eating some protein after a workout? How does IF fit…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: What causes constipation and how can I relieve it?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I find that periodically, I suffer bouts of constipation. I’ve had a hard time pinpointing what might be at the root of it. Can you share some of the common causes of constipation, and what can be done to…read more
Categories:Digestive Health
Leyla Weighs In: Got high blood pressure? Check your meds!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
If you’ve been told of recent high blood pressure, you are likely concerned about its impact on your health. Most often, high blood pressure is due to weight gain, stress, and a poor lifestyle. Losing five to seven percent of…read more
Categories:Hypertension
Ask Leyla: Bowel Movements: What’s regular?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: A lot of health gurus brag that they move their bowels three times daily. It seems one consistent bowel movement around the same time every day seems more natural. How important do you think it is to move your…read more
Categories:Digestive Health
Ask Leyla: Should I have metal dental fillings removed to reduce mercury exposure?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My daughter is seriously considering having the silver fillings in her teeth removed in order to protect her future children from toxicity and possible learning disabilities. What are the health risks to her—not getting it done vs. getting it…read more
Categories:Dental Health Environmental Health General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: The role of sodium in hypertension
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
The sodium controversy is ongoing with proponents of lower-sodium recommendations asserting, along with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, that it be restricted to less than 2,300 mg per day (a teaspoon) and no more than 1,500 mg per day for…read more
Categories:Hypertension Nutrition Controversies
Ask Leyla: Help! I’ve hit a weight loss plateau!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve been following the low carb diet religiously, and it worked – at first. But now I’ve stopped losing weight. What could be causing this weight loss plateau? A: There are many reasons for hitting a plateau while losing weight….read more
Categories:Nutrition and Weight Paleo Diet
Leyla Weighs In: Causes of adult acne
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Acne is not just the scourge of teenagers swimming in raging hormones, but also for adults who may have hormonal imbalances (i.e., perimenopause) or other health conditions that present as inflammation leading to a breakout. Rather than resorting to antibiotics…read more
Categories:Skin and Hair Skin Conditions
Leyla Weighs In: An easy summer salmon salad
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
This is an easy favorite of mine with any leftover salmon I’ve prepared on a weeknight. While I can eat cold salmon for breakfast straight out of the fridge, I like to prepare a simple salad hearty enough for lunch or…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Recipe Salmon & Salad Diet
Ask Leyla: More on lifestyle changes to prevent atrial fibrillation
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I read your article on atrial fibrillation (AF) and was intrigued by the emphasis on the importance of lifestyle changes for prevention of the condition. Can you elaborate? A: What I find striking about AF is its recent prevalence. That might be explained…read more
Categories:Heart Health
Ask Leyla: What’s your take on popular meat substitutes?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: What is your take on meat substitutes that have become popular lately, like Beyond Beef or Impossible Burger? Are the ingredients above board? A: Food science, with its creation of flavors and macronutrient substitutions, is a fascinating field. I…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Nutrition Controversies
Ask Leyla: What are your guidelines for going off PPIs?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My sister, who is in her mid-sixties, has been treating her acid reflux with Nexium for years. Her new doctor would like her to go off Nexium. I’ve heard you talk about how difficult that can be. What are…read more
Categories:Digestive Health GERD
Leyla Weighs In: Is atrial fibrillation a lifestyle-related condition?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
We are seeing more and more cases of A-fib and the medical management that such a diagnosis requires. But in an article in Medscape, Dr. John Mandrola writes that his approach to treating patients with atrial fibrillation has changed “completely…read more
Categories:Exercise General Nutrition Heart Health
Ask Leyla: Is my struggle to lose weight on a new diet due to my hypothyroidism?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve been trying to lose weight on a low fat, low calorie, mostly plant-based diet—about 1200 calories a day—with little success. I feel I have to go this low because of my hypothyroidism. Why isn’t it working? A: One…read more
Categories:Endocrinology
Leyla Weighs In: Impacts of nutritional deficiencies on mental health
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Micronutrient malnutrition, or deficiencies in one or more critical vitamins or minerals, can adversely impact both mental and physical health and potentially lead to chronic illness. According to national statistics, there are several nutrient shortfalls that are common, chiefly, potassium,…read more
Categories:Depression/Anxiety General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: My go-to weeknight salmon
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
I like to make this main course on weeknights because it truly is quick and easy. No muss, no fuss. I take two to four salmon fillets and lay them skin side down in my favorite glass Pyrex casserole dish….read more
Categories:General Nutrition Protein Entrees Recipe
Ask Leyla: Why can’t I build muscle?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: Why is it so difficult for some people to build muscle? I have been lifting weights for twenty years and have seen no increase whatsoever in my arms and legs. My son has the same problem. I have had testosterone…read more
Categories:Exercise General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: Practical ways to lower blood pressure
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
More and more people are being diagnosed with high blood pressure. The changing guidelines for diagnosing hypertension certainly play a role, but the twin epidemics of obesity and diabetes – collectively known as diabesity – and their associated metabolic disturbances (metabolic syndrome)…read more
Categories:Hypertension
Ask Leyla: Is olive oil safe for high-temperature cooking?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I often see recipes using extra virgin olive oil with oven temperatures of 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Doesn’t that produce harmful free radicals? What cooking oils do you recommend when cooking or baking at high temperatures? A: Vegetable oils that…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: Want to eat less? Sleep better!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Are you snacking much? More than usual? It may have to do with how much sleep you’re getting—or not getting which is more to the point. We know that not meeting sleep recommendations contributes to poorer health and increased risk…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Sleep
Ask Leyla: I’m diabetic; what’s the best way to shed stubborn weight?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I am a 46-year-old male, weighing 260 pounds at 5’9” tall. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes several years ago. My most recent Hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1c) was 8, and I currently take Metformin, Lantus, and Altace. I am…read more
Categories:Diabetes Nutrition and Weight Obesity
Ask Leyla: Should I include cold cuts in my Mediterranean diet?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: Please weigh in on the effects of including cold cuts such as salami, prosciutto, and capicola in one’s diet. Are all cold cuts created equal? I’m confused because of the recommendation to eat a Mediterranean diet. Cold cuts seem…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: What symptoms can tell us
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
In my experience, the development of a symptom(s) is your body trying to tell you something. Your approach to it may be one of curiosity. This is good because curiosity ushers in information. For example, in the event of a…read more
Categories:General Medicine
Leyla Weighs In: Standard Medical Assessment vs. Integrative and Functional Medicine Assessment
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Recently, I was asked to look at the labs of a woman in her late forties complaining of fatigue and malaise, despite eating healthfully and exercising regularly. Basically, her physician looked for anemia and low thyroid—both are possible causes of…read more
Categories:Endocrinology General Medicine
Ask Leyla: Could green tea be causing me adrenal stress?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I drink about three to five cups of organic green tea every day. I mentioned to my chiropractor that menopause has brought me disrupted sleep and difficulty burning fat and building muscle even though I’m a CrossFitter, do yoga, play…read more
Leyla Weighs In: Grocery shopping tips
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
It’s National Nutrition Month, and it’s all about eating better! Now that you’ve arranged your kitchen, pantry and refrigerator for ease of use for food preparation and cooking, let’s tackle grocery shopping. The lament I hear from most people is lack of…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: My go-to chicken soup
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
This isn’t a soup I make only when I feel like I’m coming down with a cold or flu, it’s hands down, my favorite chicken soup. My eldest auntie taught me that wings impart the best flavor. She wasn’t kidding!…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: How to get a good night’s sleep
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I am a 78-year-old man in great health. My weight is excellent and I exercise and run on a regular schedule. My problem is waking up after four hours and not being able to fall back to sleep. What causes…read more
Leyla Weighs In: Health or disease? You choose
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
March is National Nutrition Month. Health or Disease? YOU choose. Believe it. In many cases, you have a choice. The state of our health care system today doesn’t promote health. It is more like a “sick care system” in my opinion,…read more
Categories:General Medicine General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: February is Heart Disease Month
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Last week, I highlighted the American Heart Association’s misguided stance on saturated fats and vegetable oils. The focus of this week’s article is on the more critical risk factors for heart disease. Let’s talk inflammation. We know for a fact that those with…read more
Categories:Heart Disease Heart Health Inflammation Metabolic Syndrome
Leyla Weighs In: American Heart Association is still saturated fat phobic
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Despite so much scientific evidence absolving saturated fats as dangerous to the heart and promoting heart disease, the AHA is still having trouble discerning fact from fallacy when it comes to informing the public about health. As Dr. Hoffman referred to in…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Heart Health Nutrition Controversies
Ask Leyla: Which type of exercise is best—HIIT or endurance training?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: Which is preferable for health and conditioning, long, grueling marathons or relatively short bursts of intense aerobic activity? Some say the latter is more natural. A: Let me first say, I think all forms of exercise are beneficial to…read more
Categories:Exercise
Ask Leyla: Why is my arachidonic acid so high?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Arachidonic acid is a pro-inflammatory fatty acid responsible for the production of series 2 prostaglandins, a hallmark of inflammation associated with conditions such as asthma and arthritis, to name a couple. However, arachidonic acid is not altogether a foe. It…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: My go-to roast chicken
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
I come home from work on a typical weekday and pull out of the fridge an approximately 3 ½ pound organic chicken I purchased the other day with my other groceries—salad greens and other veggies to roast in the oven…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: What are the benefits of DHEA?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I keep hearing about DHEA. What exactly is it, and how important is DHEA to health? Should I take a supplement? How can I boost my DHEA levels naturally? A: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a vital hormone secreted by the…read more
Categories:Endocrinology
Leyla Weighs In: Red food dye and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
A recent study from McMaster University concludes long-term consumption of certain artificial food dyes can be a potential trigger to IBD such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Allure Red food coloring, which includes FD&C Red 40 and Food Red 17…read more
Categories:ADD/ADHD Crohn's Disease IBD
Ask Leyla: Diet compliance and your busy life; Navigating your therapeutic diet
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’m on a strict therapeutic diet for an autoimmune condition and am worried about being able to stay on my plan and maintain a social life. How do I navigate this without wrecking my diet? I don’t want to risk a…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: Focus in the New Year: Your terrain
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
2023 will be a time to think differently about health, wellness, disease and even contagion as our great awakening unfolds. The health of your terrain is a determinant of your vulnerability to illness. Whether it’s cold and flu or autoimmune…read more
Categories:General Medicine
Ask Leyla: Is my waist-to-hip ratio a health risk despite my daily exercise routine?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: My BMI is 19.8 but my waist-to-hip ratio is 0.96. My body fat percentage as measured in a health club ranges from 38 to 40 percent! My doctor said it’s hereditary—both my mother and grandmother carried weight around the…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Obesity
Ask Leyla: How much water should I be drinking every day?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I hear a lot about how important it is to be hydrated, but I’m not always sure if I’m drinking enough to make sure that happens. What is your recommendation for how much water I should be drinking in order…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Eat the rainbow
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: How can I ensure that I’m getting the most nutrition possible from my food? A: The digestion and absorption of the nutrition from your foods depends on the health and well-being of your gastrointestinal tract, microbiota, and any medications…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Can I still have my morning coffee during intermittent fasting?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve read about the health benefits of intermittent fasting and want to incorporate it into my routine. But does fasting mean I’ll need to give up my morning coffee? And can intermittent fasting slow my metabolism over time? A:…read more
Categories:General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Can vitamin C raise blood sugar?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I am a type 2 diabetic who takes 4,000 mg of vitamin C each day. I recently heard that vitamin C can raise your blood sugar. Is this true? A: Vitamin C is an important antioxidant for maintaining optimal…read more
Categories:Diabetes Supplements
Leyla Weighs In: The benefits of cocoa flavanols
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Chocolate lovers rejoice! Now you can have your chocolate and eat (and drink) it too thanks to the proven benefits of flavan-3-ols. Flavonoids in foods are shown to confer a vast array of health-promoting benefits due to a synergy of…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Heart Health
Leyla Weighs In: A strong immune system starts with a healthy gut
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
If you’re concerned about the state of your immune system this cold and flu season, focus on your gut. Seventy percent of immunity is in the Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT) which is part of the gastrointestinal tract. The most…read more
Categories:Immunity Microbiome
Leyla Weighs In: The dangers of very low cholesterol
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Cholesterol is not a foe in and of itself. Here’s why: Cholesterol is a necessary substance in our bodies. It’s part of all of our cell membranes—the phospholipid membrane. As much as 80 percent of cholesterol is produced by the…read more
Categories:Heart Disease Heart Health
Leyla Weighs In: Are we destined to lose muscle mass as we age?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Sarcopenia is the loss of lean body mass, especially with advancing age. Think frailty. Indeed, physically inactive people can lose between three to five percent lean body mass every year—starting as young as age 30! Current recommendations for daily protein…read more
Categories:Aging Exercise Muscle and Bone Health
Ask Leyla: What is “lean diabetes”?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’m 75 years old and was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I’m skinny and have never been overweight. I was told I have “lean diabetes”. What does this mean? A: There are a number of factors contributing to your…read more
Categories:Diabetes General Nutrition
Ask Leyla: Is salt making me fat?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I think we are all aware that excess sodium intake can cause water retention. However, I guess I wasn’t fully aware of the relationship between a high-salt diet and fructose production? Is salt itself causing weight gain? Do I…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Nutrition and Weight Obesity
Ask Leyla: Which is better for inflammation, borage oil or evening primrose oil?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve heard that both borage oil and evening primrose oil have anti-inflammatory properties, but I don’t know much about them. What makes these oils beneficial? Which would you recommend for someone who is looking to reduce inflammation? A: Borage oil is…read more
Categories:Inflammation Supplements
Ask Leyla: Should I start drinking red wine for heart health?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’ve never been a heavy drinker, but I’ve heard red wine has beneficial compounds for heart health. I’d like to start drinking it, but am unsure which wine is best. How do I know which red wine has good…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Heart Health
Leyla Weighs In: Want to get happy? Eat your veggies!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Might increasing vegetable intake increase happiness? According to a recent study, yes. We know the physical health benefits of eating more vegetables and fruits (like prevention of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer), but a growing body of evidence has revealed that…read more
Categories:General Nutrition Mental and Emotional Health
Ask Leyla: Should I be worried about my granddaughter’s weight?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I have a nine-year-old granddaughter who is quite overweight. The rest of the family, mom, dad and three siblings are all normal weight. They don’t keep a lot of junk food or sodas in the house and she doesn’t…read more
Categories:Nutrition and Weight Obesity Pediatric Health
Leyla Weighs In: Worried about heart health? Take care of your teeth!
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
As a dietitian, some of the most important questions during my intake include an assessment of oral health. Poor dentition can put someone at nutritional risk due to reduced consumption of high fiber foods, instead opting for processed foods that…read more
Categories:Heart Health
Ask Leyla: Why is my vitamin D still low after supplementation?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: I’m a healthy 61-year-old female with an ongoing vitamin D deficiency. My doctor has given me 25,000 IU vitamin D per week over a 10-week period a few times over the last 18 months and my levels continue to…read more
Categories:Supplements
Ask Leyla: Which supplements do you take?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: What supplements do you take and how do you determine which are most important for you given how expensive nutraceuticals can be? A: Let me answer the expense question first. I consider my supplement protocol a very important adjunct to the…read more
Categories:Supplements
Ask Leyla: What should I keep in mind when looking for supplements on a budget?
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Q: What are the most important supplements to take for people on a budget? A: This is a great question because most people are interested in taking supplements to maintain their health and longevity. While getting the best bang for…read more
Categories:Supplements
Ask Leyla: Frequently asked questions about supplements
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Supplements are an important part of your comprehensive medical and nutritional treatment program, but many who are prescribed supplements have questions about their use and benefits. This week, I’ve tried to tackle some of the most commonly asked questions. Why…read more
Categories:General Medicine Supplements
Leyla Weighs In: Benefits of regenerative agriculture (part two)
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Last week I talked about the benefits of regenerative agriculture with respect to healthy soil. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, soil health is measured by the soil’s ability to function as a living system while maintaining air and water quality, performing…read more
Categories:Environmental Health General Nutrition
Leyla Weighs In: Benefits of Regenerative Agriculture
By Leyla Muedin MS, RD, CDN
Industrial agricultural practices like tilling, monocropping and heavy use of chemical and fossil fuel-produced fertilizers disturb and degrade soil health, so much so that the United States lost 1.7 billion tons of it to wind and water erosion in the year…read more