In this episode of Bite by Bite Nutrition for Life, Monica and Tonya break down why cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of death in the U.S. and Indiana and what you can realistically do about it. Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by health advice, this conversation cuts through the noise with practical, down-to-earth guidance on diet, exercise, stress, biometrics, and even the great beef-tallow-vs-seed-oil saga. Most importantly, you’ll learn how small, sustainable steps can make a real difference in your heart health. Tune in to get informed, get empowered, and start taking action one bite, one move, one small step at a time.
In this episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life, Tonya and Monica dig into key elements of Mike Braun’s “Make Indiana Healthy Again” initiative, nine executive orders signed in April 2025 that chart a new path for nutrition, public health, and welfare policy in Indiana.
The changes to the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) rules, a plan to ban candy and soft drinks from SNAP purchases.
Efforts to tackle diet-related chronic disease via increased transparency around food dyes and additives, a comprehensive study of diet-based illness, and improved access to local farm-to-consumer foods.
Is your wellness routine based on science or just your “For You” page?Wellness trends are everywhere; beef tallow, colostrum supplements, apple cider vinegar shots, and sea moss gel smoothies. But are these rooted in nutrition science or just another round of social media hype? Tonya and Monica are joined by Purdue Dietetic Interns Karen and Prezlee to dig into the facts, myths, and maybe a little marketing magic behind these popular health crazes.
Saliva isn’t just spit... it’s science. In this episode, we chat with Dr. Cordelia Running, director of the SPIT Lab (Saliva, Perception, Ingestion, and Tongues) at Purdue University. She shares her research on how taste and saliva influence what we enjoy, and don’t enjoy, eating and drinking. We dive into her work on encouraging people to eat more vegetables, often bitter and less liked, and reduce sugar-sweetened beverages, typically well-liked and overconsumed. From why some flavors appeal to some people more than others to practical strategies for healthier eating, this episode offers a fascinating look at the science of taste and behavior.
From Red 40 to Yellow 5, synthetic food dyes are in everything from candy to sports drinks, and they’ve been sparking debate for decades. In this episode, Tonya and Monica are joined by Dr. Running where they dig into what dyes are actually approved in the U.S., how they’re regulated, and what the science really says about their health effects. Spoiler: the brighter the color doesn’t mean the bigger the danger. While we’re busy arguing over food coloring, we’re still falling far short on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legume, the true missing colors in our diet.
In this episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life, we’re digging into what keeps our food safe from farm to fork. We explore the responsibilities that U.S. growers and producers have in preventing contamination, how recalls are handled when things go wrong, and what systems are in place to protect consumers. Plus, we take a look across the ocean to compare how the European Union approaches food safety differently than the United States. Whether you're a curious consumer or just interested in food systems, you'll come away with a clearer understanding of what’s behind the label and who’s protecting your plate.
Ever glanced at a food label and wondered how all those ingredients got approved? In this episode, we’re talking about GRAS “Generally Recognized as Safe” a little acronym that plays a big role in what goes on your plate. From flavor enhancers to preservatives, we’ll walk through how certainsubstances earn the GRAS stamp, how the system works, and what’s being done to keep it trustworthy. It’s all about food safety, transparency, and helping you feel more confident in the choices you make at the grocery store.Fact Check: There are 2 types of antifreeze:
Sources:
FDA GRAS Overview: https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/generally-recognized-safe-gras
FDA, GRAS Notification: https://www.fda.gov/food/generally-recognized-safe-gras/how-us-fdas-gras-notification-program-works FDA GRAS Notification: https://www.fda.gov/food/generally-recognized-safe-gras/about-gras-notification-program GAO Report on GRAS Oversight (2010): https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-10-246 FDA Removal of Trans Fats (2015): https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/removing-trans-fatFDA Understanding how the FDA regulates FoodAdditives and GRAS: https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-and-gras-ingredients-information-consumers/understanding-how-fda-regulates-food-additives-and-gras-ingredients Is it really FDA approved? https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/it-really-fda-approved
Are seed oils really the enemy of good health, or is the fear around them overblown? In this episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life, hosts Tonya and Monica sit down with Dr. Martha Belury, a professor of human nutrition at Ohio State University, to separate fact from fiction.
If you've ever heard that seed oils cause inflammation or that you need a perfect omega-6 to omega-3 balance, this episode will help you understand what the science actually says—without the fear-mongering. Dr. Belury breaks down the truth about seed oils and inflammation, and weighs in on the recent push to replace seed oils with beef tallow in frying.
In this episode, we’re shifting the conversation around exercise from weight loss to holistic well-being. Hosts Tonya and Monica sit down with Jen Elliott—a Psychotherapist, Social Worker, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and Personal Trainer—to explore the power of joyful movement.
Jen shares insights on how diet culture has conditioned us to see exercise as a punishment rather than a form of self-care, debunking common fitness myths like "no pain, no gain" and the obsession with calorie burn. We discuss how intuitive eating principles help people reconnect with movement in a way that feels good, supports mental health, and fosters self-compassion.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in an all-or-nothing mindset with exercise or struggled to detach from weight-focused fitness habits, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to redefine movement on your terms and embrace physical activity in a way that nourishes both body and mind.
📌 Resources:
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Are your New Year’s resolutions doing more harm than good? In this episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life, Tonya and Monica break down the ever-popular 75 Hard Challenge—a program that promises mental toughness through extreme discipline. But is it really the path to lasting health, or just another quick fix wrapped in rigid rules?
This episode is for anyone feeling burnt out by unrealistic health goals, those tempted by "all-or-nothing" challenges, or anyone curious about the fine line between motivation and obsession. You'll learn why restriction often backfires, the risks of overtraining without rest, and why daily progress photos might hurt more than help.
Expect an honest, no-nonsense conversation with a dash of snark, backed by real nutrition science. We'll leave you with practical tips for building sustainable habits that actually support your health—without the extremes.
Are you tired of hearing about the latest food fads on social media? This episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life is for anyone who’s had enough of the most popular nutrition trends circulating online, especially those from TikTok! Hosts Tonya and Monica dive deep into five of 2023’s biggest trends—like proffee, fruit demonization, superfood powders, dry scooping pre-workout, and TikTok’s nature cereal—and give them a much-needed reality check. Expect a mix of science-based facts and a healthy dose of humor as they discuss why these trends might not be as revolutionary as they seem.
By the end of the episode, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to make smarter food choices and laugh at the latest TikTok trends that don't quite live up to the hype.
Cited sources include:
PMID: 30889887,
PMID: 23990623,
This episode is for anyone curious about the hype surrounding metabolism trackers like the Lumen device or who’s been searching for ways to optimize weight loss and energy levels. If you’ve ever wondered whether tracking your metabolism is necessary for better health or just another gadget gimmick, this episode is for you. Join Tonya and Monica as they break down the science of metabolism, explore the concept of metabolic flexibility, and provide insights into whether you really need a device to micromanage your body’s fuel usage. Expect a mix of expert advice, a little snark, and practical takeaways to help you decide if a metabolism tracker is worth the investment.
In this episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life, we’re joined by Jenna Smith, MS, RD, a Nutrition and Wellness Educator for University of Illinois Extension, to explore the crucial next steps in feeding your baby: introducing solid foods. If you’re a parent wondering when to start solids, what the best first foods are, or how to identify your baby’s readiness, this episode is for you! Jenna shares her expert advice, offering practical tips on creating a varied, nutritious diet for your baby without the overwhelm. USDA MyPlate: https://www.myplate.gov/
USDA WIC Infant Nutrition and Feeding guide: https://wicworks.fns.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/document/infant-feeding-guide.pdf
In this episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life, we're diving into the world of baby feeding with Rachel Mannen, MS, RD, a Nutrition and Wellness Educator at the University of Illinois Extension. If you're a new parent or caregiver curious about baby-led weaning, when to start solids, or whether homemade baby food is really better than store-bought, this episode is for you! Rachel shares practical insights from her work with WIC and her latest project, Feeding My Baby, providing guidance on feeding your baby in a way that works for you and your family.
Join Tonya and Monica on this episode of "Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life" as they dive into the fascinating and sometimes controversial world of IV vitamin therapy. Discover the history of this treatment, originally developed in the late 60s and 70s, and explore its current popularity in wellness spas. Tonya shares her recent visit to an integrative health clinic, while Monica discusses the potential benefits and risks. From hydration and nutrient absorption issues to the dangers of bypassing the body's natural regulatory systems, they cover it all. Tune in to find out if IV vitamin therapy is a miracle cure or just another wellness trend.
In this episode of Bite by Bite: Nutrition for Life, Tonya and Monica delve into the world of hydration packets, examining whether these trendy wellness products truly offer superior hydration benefits. Perfect for athletes, health enthusiasts, and concerned parents, this episode sheds light on the role of sodium and other electrolytes in maintaining fluid balance, the science behind hydration, and the potential overuse of these products. Listeners will gain practical insights on how to stay hydrated through natural food sources and regular water intake, helping them make informed decisions about their hydration needs. Tune in to learn if hydration packets are a necessity or just hype.
Join us for an enlightening episode as we shine a spotlight on the Purdue Extension Nutrition Education Program, a beacon of hope in the fight against food insecurity. Funded by SNAP-ed, this program delivers vital nutrition education directly to communities in need. Whether you're a community leader, educator, or advocate passionate about combating food insecurity, this episode is tailored for you. Expect to uncover the innovative strategies employed by the program, the impact it has on individuals and communities, and how you can get involved in this noble cause. If you're eager to make a difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity, this episode is essential listening.
Tune in to our latest episode where we delve deep into the contentious topic of weight loss medications. Designed for individuals navigating the complex landscape of weight management, this episode provides crucial insights into the question: Should people use weight loss medications to manage weight? Whether you're someone considering these medications or simply curious about their efficacy and safety, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration. Expect evidence-based discussions, expert opinions, and practical advice to help you make informed decisions about your health journey. If you're seeking clarity amidst the plethora of weight loss solutions, this episode is a must-listen.
With the prevalence of GMOs in our food supply and the ongoing debates surrounding their safety, it's crucial to separate fact from fiction. By listening, you'll gain a clearer understanding of the scientific consensus, the regulatory landscape, and the broader impacts of GMO technology. Expect practical takeaways that empower you to make informed decisions about GMOs and their role in our food system.
Resources: https://ag.purdue.edu/gmos/index.html
In this episode, we delve into a hotly debated topic: Can pesticides be used on organic produce? Tailored for those navigating the maze of organic food choices, we provide expert insights and evidence-based analysis to shed light on this complex issue. Join us as we explore the nuances of organic farming, deciphering what truly qualifies as "organic" and unraveling the myths surrounding pesticide usage. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how your food choices impact your health and the environment.
References: Journal of Toxicology
USDA Organic Standards: https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards/organic-standards
National Pesticide Information Center – search for any pesticide here for a profile on the chemical and its potential effects on humans: http://npic.orst.edu/ Purdue Extension Organic Agriculture program: https://extension.purdue.edu/anr/_teams/dffs/organic_ag/index.html
Neonicotinoids (conventional insecticide): https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/neonicotinoids/PDF/Neonicotinoidinsecticidesandbeeswhatsallthebuzzabout.pdf