Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yetit’s often misunderstood, overlooked, or avoided altogether. This episode is for anyone who thinks they’re “too young,” feels fine but hasn’t been screened, or wants to better understand colon cancer from both a scientific and deeplypersonal perspective. Joined by colon cancer researcher Patricia Wolf and nurse practitioner Brittany Koopman, who is also living with colon cancer herself, we break down common myths, early warning signs, screening options, and why women in particular may be missed or dismissed.Listeners can expect an honest, approachable conversation that blends research, real-world clinical insight, and lived experience, plus practical takeaways on nutrition, prevention, and why keeping up with all cancer screenings couldsave your life.

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.

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,

National Institutes of Health

Poison Control

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 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.

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

In this episode, we uncork the mysteries surrounding the relationship between wine and health, posing the question: Is wine truly good for your health? Join us as we navigate the complex landscape of antioxidants, moderation, and the impact of wine on various aspects of health. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or someone exploring the intersections of lifestyle and health, this episode promises a fascinating exploration of the age-old question: Can a glass of wine a day truly keep the doctor away? Tune in for a spirited conversation that uncovers the truths and myths swirling in the world of wine and health.

In this episode, we explore the often overlooked relationship between grief and nutrition. If you're navigating the challenging journey of loss, this episode is for you. Discover the profound impact of grief on our bodies and how thoughtful nutritional choices can support emotional well-being. Join us for a compassionate discussion, offering practical tips and insights into the intricate connection between nourishment and the healing process.

The new year evokes a sense of renewal and fresh starts. As many as 2/3rd of Americans set New Year's resolutions. Across time the most frequent resolutions have been to "eat better" and "loose weight." While these seem like worthy goals, we challenge you to examine your true motivation behind those resolutions and dig down to find out what you really what to achieve. Wellness wheel resources:  https://www.unh.edu/health/wellbeing-wheel 

Join us in this episode to explore if continuous blood glucose monitoring is necessary, unravel the secrets of how your body reacts to the food it consumes, and discover the pivotal role played by blood glucose in your overall health. If you've ever had concerns about your blood glucose levels, this episode is a must-listen, providing valuable insights and answers to your questions.

Join us as we navigate the complexities of this modern dietary dilemma and uncover the hidden truths behind the foods that dominate our supermarket shelves. We begin by defining what ultra-processed foods are and how they differ from minimally processed or whole foods and explore their varying degrees of health impact, from obesity and diabetes to their influence on eating behaviors. Throughout the episode, we scrutinize the notion that all ultra-processed foods are created equal. We discuss the role of ingredients, food additives, and nutritional profiles, highlighting the vast spectrum within this category. Is that bag of potato chips the same as a soy burger? Are there better choices within the world of ultra-processed foods that can align with a healthier lifestyle?

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of plant-based eating, shedding light on the misconception that it's synonymous with going completely meat-free. Tune in as we unravel the nuanced aspects of a plant-based diet and reveal creative ways to seamlessly infuse more nourishing plant foods into your daily meals. Get ready to explore a balanced and vibrant approach to nutrition that embraces a plant-based eating style.

In this episode, we delve into the critical link between nutrition and exercise, providing valuable insights and evidence-based information for your overall fitness journey. Whether you're a seasoned athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone just starting on the path to a healthier lifestyle, understanding how nutrition affects your performance and recovery is essential. Listeners can expect expert advice from exercise physiologist and dietitians, empowering them to make informed dietary choices to support their exercise goals effectively. Tune in to discover how proper nutrition can maximize energy levels and enhance performance bringing you closer to your fitness aspirations.

Do you wonder how the timing of your meals can affect your workout results? In this episode, we break down complex concepts into easily understandable terms, providing you with practical tips and insights that can make a real difference in your health journey. Tune in to learn how to align your exercise routine with your body's natural rhythms and gain a deeper understanding of the science behind exercise timing. Get ready to take your physical activity routine to the next level with evidence-based insights and actionable strategies.

Source: PMID: 31952250

Men’s Health Month is an annual campaign that occurs in June that encourages men to take stock of their health choices and become aware of their health risks. Guys, it's time to take charge of your health, men live sicker and die younger. Did you know that men are more likely to skip their health checkups than women? This episode we discuss ways to help break the trend and make men’s health a priority and encourage regular checkups.

Referenced Resources:

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6342698/
• https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html

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.

Soy is everywhere, is this a good thing? Listen to this episode to find out if foods containing soy raise your risk of breast cancer. Abbi and Monica breakdown the research on soy and if it is beneficial to include in a healthy diet. 

Sources: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2019.04.011

If you are frustrated with nutrition myths, you are in the right place! Listen in to this episode as we dissect the top myths ranked by experts and uncover which have merit and which are completely unfounded. 1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889157517300418 2. https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/pdf/S1550-4131(19)30248-7.pdf 3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7884895/

4. https://www.bmj.com/content/347/bmj.f5001

5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5486204/pdf/ajcn154872.pdf

6. https://www.niaid.nih.gov/sites/default/files/addendum-peanut-allergy-prevention-guidelines.pdf 7. https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa1414850

Are you frustrated with the idea that weight defines your health? If so, listen to this episode to learn how research shows our current medical approaches are   not improving out health. We will talk about the new position statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics and filter through the research about weight loss impact on health.

e2022060640 

DOI: 10.1177/2158244018772888

February is American Heart Month. On todays episode we break down the not so fun statistics of heart disease. Discuss the steps to ensure a heart healthy   future, don't worry, no drastic measures need to be taken. 

Resources for this episode: 

• heart.org
• Eatright.org
• National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/american-heart-month

It's the New Year and everyone wants to sell you a new diet. Saying here are 3 signs you need this diet. Well were here to share 3 signs you don't need that cleanse or diet. Hint; our bodies can do it on their own!

Food allergies, food sensitivities, food intolerance. They're not quite the same and it's important to understand the difference. Listen in to learn more.

Join Monica in this episode for an exploration of 2 very popular diet trends Keto and Carnivore. Find out why eating low or no carb isn't the only solution to   weight loss and why some people think plants are toxic!

In this episode Purdue Extension Educator Elisa Worland discusses the pro's of a vegan diet and gives some helpful tips on how to incorporate this lifestyle in to your lifestyle. As always, we discuss if this is the best route for everyone.

Parents: try these simple tricks to get your picky eaters to try a new food.  Grandparents: quit sabotaging your children's efforts!

Lack of sleep makes us irritable and less motived. But lack of sleep could also be adding to excess calorie consumption.

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.

Stress can give us more than just a short temper. It can have profound affects on your physical health making nutrition more important than ever. Join this   episode as we explore the biology of stress and how nutrition plays a role.

A number of products in the supplement aisle claim to "boost" immunity.   Before you spend good money on that bottle of vitamins or herbal remedy, be sure it's going to help the way you think it will. Look out for inflated claims and learn where to go and find out reliable supplement information.

Do alternative sweeteners cause cancer, induce sweet cravings or trigger an elevation in glucose? Listen to this episode to put these myths to bed.

Fermented foods are all the rage, but do they hold up to their hype? In this episode, Steve Lindemann, professor of food science at Purdue University and fermentation expert talks us through the science of fermentation and how, why and when it is beneficial to our gut health.

The diet industry has you believing you need to cut all carbs. When we really the focus should be on the amount of added sugar we are consuming. Listen in for tips on how to reduce added sugar, while still bringing JOY to our life with a little bit of the sweet stuff. 

Do carbohydrates make you fat? Registered Dietitian Gerald Ernat breaks down carbohydrate metabolism. We asked him if carbohydrates make you fat, is sugar addicting and what role do those carbohydrates play in sports performance.  Listen to this episode to find out if you really need to cut carbs.

In this episode we hear from a struggling mom about the baby formula shortage, and we discuss the do's and don'ts to navigating this scary shortage. 

Learn what you need to do to make sure you are prepped and ready for a successful canning season. Find out everything you need to know about lids, recipes and outdated methods you should not be using anymore. 

In this episode we are joined by Karen Richey, Mastering Home Food Preservation instructor for Purdue Extension. Learn what you need to do to make sure you are prepped and ready for a successful canning season.

Local foods is increasing in demand, with a 300% growth in regional food hubs and an almost 200% increase in Farmers Markets since 2007, shows the 2014 USDA census of Agriculture data. Listen to how caterer of Juniper Spoon Lali Hess supports local farmers and provides locally sourced produce in her catering business.

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 we are joined by Josh Gruver an associate professor at Ball State University in Environment, Geology, and Natural Resources. Listen to how Josh is helping one community connect growers with consumers to help reduce waste, improve access to local foods and help eaters understand where their food comes from. Josh will help us understand the difference between a sustainable food system and our current globalized food system. 

Want to keep a clear mind as you age? The time to take action is now! Join us as we discuss how to implement a brain healthy eating plan.

In this episode we are joined by Dr. Julie Garden-Robinson, registered dietitian, professor and Extension food and nutrition specialist at North Dakota State University. Julie shares with us about her work in the connection between nutrition and brain health. Teaser: it doesn't have to be as complicated as you think. Join us to learn how to feed your brain. Follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram @bitebybitenutritionforlife

Join us for this quick "digestion session" as we unpack what it means to have animal products as part of a balanced eating plan.