The Hidden Dangers of Alternative Sweeteners on Liver Health. Registered dietitian Leyla Muedin weighs in on the rising concerns about metabolic dysfunction associated steato liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Leyla discusses the findings of recent research from Washington University at St. Louis, revealing that sugar alcohols like sorbitol, often considered healthier alternatives to refined sugar, may actually be harmful to liver health. She explains how gut bacteria can convert sorbitol into fructose, leading to detrimental effects on the liver. Leyla underscores the prevalence of MASLD in the adult population and its association with obesity and cardiometabolic conditions, emphasizing the need for caution in the consumption of alternative sweeteners.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the importance of maintaining muscle mass during weight loss, highlighting recent research on the benefits of krill oil. Leyla delves into various aspects of the study conducted by Glasgow University’s School of Human Nutrition, which demonstrated that daily supplementation with krill oil helps minimize muscle loss despite significant weight loss. The episode covers study details, the impact of krill oil on inflammation, muscle maintenance, and the potential advantages of krill oil over traditional fish oil. Leyla also emphasizes the critical role of a balanced diet and strength training in preserving muscle mass during weight loss journeys.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the important relationship between gut health and bone health. Leyla delves into the ways gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome can lead to osteoporosis and increased fracture risks. She explains how chronic inflammation, malabsorption, and dysbiosis are common underlying causes of bone loss. Leyla also reviews scientific studies on the link between the gut microbiome and bone mass, highlighting the potential of fecal microbiome transplants as future treatments for osteoporosis.

Challenges of GLP-1 Drugs and New Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the recent findings on weight regain after stopping GLP-1 receptor agonists like OZEMPIC and Wegovy, based on a recent British Medical Journal editorial. The episode also highlights the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025-2030), which recommend focusing on real, nutrient-dense foods, prioritizing protein, and reducing highly processed foods. Leyla addresses the importance of maintaining healthy eating habits during and after using GLP-1 drugs to achieve long-term weight management and overall health.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the crucial importance of Omega-3 fats, particularly emphasizing their role in mental and heart health. She highlights a recent UK Biobank study demonstrating that higher Omega-3 levels are linked to a significantly lower risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation. Additionally, another study in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveals that elevated Omega-3 levels correlate with a reduced risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Leyla underscores the necessity of a balanced diet rich in Omega-3 sources like fatty fish and grass-fed meats, arguing that these nutrients are crucial for optimal mental and heart health.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the renaming of fatty liver disease to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (M-A-S-L-D) to reduce stigma and improve diagnosis. Dr. Mary Ella’s efforts at the University of Chicago Medicine highlight how this change aids in better patient identification and treatment. Leyla emphasizes lifestyle changes like a low-carb diet to manage and reverse the disease. The episode also covers the prevalence of fake extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on the market, ways to identify authentic olive oil, and the importance of choosing quality over mass-produced options.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin details key aspects of supplement use and addresses frequently asked questions. Topics include the importance of targeted supplementation, the rationale behind personalized dosages, best practices for starting new supplements, and managing common issues like nausea and bright yellow urine. Leyla also explains why some supplements may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and provides guidance on how to adjust dosages for optimal results. Emphasis is placed on the benefits of pharmaceutical-grade supplements available on Fullscript and the necessity of regular blood tests to fine-tune supplementation.

The Benefits of Matcha for Women in Menopause: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the potential benefits of matcha for women going through menopause. She explains how matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, offers higher concentrations of antioxidants, amino acids, and phytonutrients compared to regular green tea. These properties can help support cognitive function, mood stabilization, cardiovascular health, and weight management. The episode also touches on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing an anti-inflammatory diet, regular exercise, restful sleep, and meaningful social connections. Leyla highlights how simple daily rituals, such as enjoying a cup of matcha, can provide emotional grounding and routine for women navigating menopause.

Unmasking Hidden Sugars in ‘Healthy’ Drinks: Leyla Muedin, a registered dietitian nutritionist, examines the surprising amounts of sugar found in commonly perceived ‘healthy’ drinks. She discusses how beverages like energy drinks, fruit smoothies, and chai lattes can exceed the daily recommended sugar intake, based on a study by Ben’s Natural Health. Leyla warns that even health-focused products and homemade drinks can contain high sugar levels, which can impact weight, blood sugar levels, and overall health. She emphasizes the importance of being an ‘ingredient sleuth’ and making informed choices. 

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin details a study on the effects of vitamins C and E supplementation in older women with sarcopenia. The study, published in the journal Medicine, found that combining 1000 mg of vitamin C and 335 mg of vitamin E with a 12-week resistance training program significantly improved muscle mass, strength, and certain blood parameters compared to a placebo group. The benefits were attributed to the alleviation of oxidative stress and inflammation. Leyla underscores the importance of adequate animal protein intake to optimize resistance training outcomes.