Nutrition for Noobs is a fun, science-backed podcast where nutrition expert Michelle Pierce-Hamilton teams up with novice foodie Kevin Harries to break down the confusion around modern diets and healthy eating. Updated biweekly, each episode tackles one nutrition topic—from anti-inflammatory seeds and collagen to bone broth, emulsifiers, salt, plant-based eating, healthy pantry staples, and more—with humour, clarity, and evidence-based insights. Michelle, a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, ...
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N4N Productions Podcasts

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Ep 44 - The Truth About Fibre: Why Most People Are Dangerously Deficient (And What to Do About It)
42:19
42:19
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42:19Did you know that most Canadians—and people in developed countries—are severely deficient in dietary fibre (or fiber, for our American friends)? In this eye-opening episode, Michelle and Kevin dive deep into the importance of fibre for digestive health, metabolism, weight management, and disease prevention. Discover the difference between soluble f…
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Ep 43 - Chia vs. Flax vs. Hemp – The Super‑Seed Showdown!
38:30
38:30
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38:30In this seed‑tastic episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle and Kevin dive into one of the most buzzworthy nutrition questions: chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp hearts – which one truly wins? Packed with seed puns and dad-joke flair, they serve up science‑rich nutrition insights that are as fun as they are informative. Tune in to uncover: Which seed i…
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Ep 42 - Bone Broth Breakdown – Is It Really Worth the Hype?
44:04
44:04
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44:04In this savory catch-up of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle simmer down to the core question: Is bone broth truly a nutritional superstar—or just a trendy fad? With their signature blend of curiosity, wit, and science, they crack open the broth world and pour out all the facts. Tune in if you want to: Understand what makes bone broth differe…
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Ep 41 - Collagen Craze – What It Is & Whether Supplements Are Worth It
40:32
40:32
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40:32Is collagen just hype, or truly a health powerhouse for skin, joints, and more? In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle unpack the science of collagen with clarity, warmth, and practical tips for everyday health enthusiasts. What You’ll Discover: Collagen benefits for skin, aging, and joints Choose between collagen supplements vs…
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Ep 40 - Michelle Joins Plant‑Based Canada – Dive into Whole‑Food, Plant‑Based Nutrition
1:04:53
1:04:53
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1:04:53In this special cross‑podcast episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle takes the mic on the Plant‑Based Canada podcast, chatting with host Stephanie Nishi about the power and potential of a plant‑centered lifestyle. Join them as they unpack evidence‑based insights on whole food, plant‑based eating, nutrition myths, and practical tips to fuel vibran…
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Ep 39 - Smart Pantry Staples: Build a Healthy, Plant‑Forward Kitchen in Minutes
30:34
30:34
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30:34Looking for easy pantry stocking tips, healthy pantry essentials, or ways to support a plant-forward lifestyle? In Episode 39 of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle and Kevin dive into “Ideas for Stocking Your Pantry”—perfect for simplifying grocery shopping, reducing meal prep stress, and cultivating long-lasting, nutritious kitchen staples. Discover ho…
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Ep 38 - Are Emulsifiers Wrecking Your Gut? What New Science Says About Food Additives and the Microbiome
32:20
32:20
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32:20In this eye-opening episode, Michelle and Kevin dive into the surprising science behind emulsifiers in food and their impact on your gut health and microbiome. Inspired by a recent Wall Street Journal article and cutting-edge research from France and the U.S., they explore how common food additives—like carboxymethyl cellulose, polysorbate 80, carr…
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Ep 37 - How Much Salt Is Too Much? The Truth About Sodium and Your Health
49:33
49:33
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49:33In this enlightening episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle dive deep into the salty truth behind one of the most common ingredients in our diets: salt. From Himalayan pink salt and kosher salt to Kala Namak and Hawaiian black volcanic salt, they explore the health claims, flavor profiles, and—most importantly—the iodine content (or lac…
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Ep 36 - Redefining Comfort Food at Ronald McDonald House with Chef Kim Sutherland
1:11:23
1:11:23
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1:11:23Join Kevin (the nutrition noob) and Michelle (the holistic nutrition expert) for a heartwarming and insightful conversation with Chef Kim Sutherland, Manager of Nutrition & Wellness at Ronald McDonald House Southwestern Ontario. In this episode, they explore the transformation of traditional “comfort food” within RMH—from satisfying cravings to nur…
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Bonus - Ep 35 - The Myth of Chocolate Ceremonies
29:56
29:56
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29:56Dive into a delightful, bite-sized conversation with Kevin (our resident nutrition noob) and Michelle (Registered Holistic Nutritionist) as they unravel the truth behind chocolate ceremonies. In this bonus episode, with special guest María Mancini Cenobio from Mayana Cacao, they break down: What exactly is a “chocolate ceremony”? Are ceremonial cac…
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Ep 34 - Food of the Gods Part 2: The Nutrition of Chocolate
45:27
45:27
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45:27Join Kevin (our Nutrition Noob) and Michelle (the Registered Holistic Nutritionist) as they nerd out with special guest María Mancini Cenobio, who owns and operates Mayana Cacao, continuing their two-part deep dive into cacao, the "Food of the Gods." In this rich, flavorful episode, they unpack: Health Benefits of Quality Chocolate How cacao flavan…
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Ep 33 - The Food of the Gods - Unlocking the Magic of Cacao: From Bean to Chocolate Elixir with Maria
37:44
37:44
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37:44Dive deep into the fascinating world of cacao, chocolate, and superfoods in this enlightening episode with cacao expert Maria. Discover the rich history and varietals of cacao—from Criollo, Forastero, to Trinitario—and how terroir shapes the unique flavors of this ancient plant, much like fine tea. Learn about the difference between craft chocolate…
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Ep 32 - Top Food Trends of 2024 – What Stayed & What Was Overhyped
46:16
46:16
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46:16In Episode 32 of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle revisit the biggest food trends of 2024, exploring what truly stuck—and what fizzled out. They analyze: The real impact of plant-based eating, mindful of when it's beneficial and when it’s just hype The rise of food transparency, clean labels, and traceable sourcing in mainstream markets The …
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Ep 31 - Post-Hiatus Comeback + What’s New in Healthy Eating
44:13
44:13
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44:13Episode 31 of Nutrition for Noobs marks an exciting return after our short hiatus! Hosts Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton (Holistic Nutritionist) and Kevin Harries (the noob) dive back into the podcast with: A recap of what’s been happening behind the scenes and why the break Fresh nutrition and wellness updates—new trends, research highlights, and practic…
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Ep 30 - Vegan Caesar Dressing Recipe & Plant-Based Summer Salad Tips
7:18
7:18
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7:18In this summer mini-episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin goes solo to share his delicious, dairy-free, egg-free vegan Caesar salad dressing recipe—a perfect plant-based twist on a classic favourite. Learn how to make a creamy Caesar dressing using hummus, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and more. Plus, hear a quick summer dad joke, …
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Ep 29 - Essential Kitchen Tools for Beginners: Knives, Air Fryers & More
18:10
18:10
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18:10In Episode 29 of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle (the resident nutrition nerd) takes over as host and shares her top kitchen tools for stress‑free healthy cooking. Discover why a sharp culinary knife should be your first investment—then explore essential gadgets like avocado knives, microplanes, mandolins, air fryers, pressure cookers, salad spinners…
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Ep 28 - Easy Plant-Based Ingredient Swaps – Dairy, Egg & Oil Alternatives
22:25
22:25
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22:25Hosts Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton and Kevin Harries unveil simple, creative plant-based ingredient substitutions for everyday cooking and baking: Dairy-free swaps: milk alternatives like oat, almond, and coconut plus yogurt and cheese options Egg replacements: flax and chia “eggs,” applesauce, mashed banana, and commercial binders Oil alternatives: ap…
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Ep 27 - Summer Sneezes & Hay Fever Relief – Allergy Nutrition Tips
14:35
14:35
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14:35In this 15‑minute summer short episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton (Registered Holistic Nutritionist) and Kevin Harries (Noob) tackle one of the most frustrating aspects of summer – hay fever, seasonal allergies, and how nutrition can help you finally breathe easier: Allergy symptom triggers: ragweed, pollen, itchy eyes, and sn…
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Ep 26 - What Is Nutritional Yeast? Health Benefits, B12, and Umami Flavour
14:44
14:44
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14:44In this bite-sized Summer Shorts episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle dig into the surprising powerhouse that is nutritional yeast (aka nooch). Learn what it is, how it’s made, and why it’s beloved by plant-based eaters. Discover how nutritional yeast adds savoury umami flavour, boosts your B-vitamin intake—including B12—and works as …
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Ep 25 - Lessons in Longevity part 2 – Blue Zones ‘Power Nine’ Hacks for Healthy Aging
52:33
52:33
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52:33Dive into Episode 25 of Nutrition for Noobs (a continuation of episode 24) as hosts Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton (RHN) and Kevin Harries explore Blue Zones—regions where people live exceptionally long, healthy lives—with a focus on the Power Nine lifestyle habits identified by Dan Buettner: Blue Zones deep dive: Learn what places like Okinawa, Sardinia…
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Ep 24 - Longevity Secrets of Blue Zones & Centenarian Cultures
1:00:19
1:00:19
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1:00:19In Episode 24 of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and holistic nutritionist Michelle dive into time-tested longevity insights from the world’s longest-lived communities—those studied by Alexander Leaf (via Healthy at 100) such as the Abkhazians, Vilcabambans, Hunzas, and Okinawans. Discover key foundations for a long, healthy life: The power of strong so…
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Ep 23 - Choosing Carbs Wisely: The Truth About Brown Rice, Quinoa & Whole Grains
21:42
21:42
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21:42Michelle answers a listener’s question about the nutritional differences among unrefined carbohydrates like white rice, brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grains. She explains why choosing unrefined grains is more important than obsessing over nutrient profiles and highlights the benefits of rotating a variety of whole grains for gut health and nu…
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Ep 22 - Are Carbs Bad? Debunking Carb Myths & Understanding Healthy Carbohydrates
42:04
42:04
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42:04Are carbohydrates really the enemy? In Episode 22 of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle tackles one of the most misunderstood topics in nutrition: carbs. Learn why your body actually prefers healthy carbohydrates as its main fuel source, and how to choose the right kinds—from whole grains, fruits, and legumes to unrefined plant-based carbs. She breaks d…
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Ep 21 - Is Alcohol Bad for You? Latest Canadian & WHO Guidelines Explained
48:45
48:45
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48:45Michelle dives into Canada’s 2023 alcohol guidelines and the World Health Organization's declaration that no amount of alcohol is safe. They break down what constitutes a standard drink, explain the stark new recommendations (just 2 or fewer drinks per week, with anything over 7 drinks highly risky), and unpack the associated health concerns—cancer…
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Ep 20 - Is Ghee Healthy? The Truth About Ghee, Saturated Fat & Oil-Free Cooking
33:57
33:57
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33:57In Episode 20 of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle tackles a listener question about ghee and dive deep into the health effects of saturated fat and oxidized cholesterol. Is ghee really a healthy fat, or does it carry hidden risks for heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and more? Michelle explains the science behind oxysterols, and both hosts share practical s…
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Ep 19 - Exploring the Latest Food Trends – Plant-Based Innovations & Market Shifts
1:07:23
1:07:23
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1:07:23In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, hosts Kevin and Michelle delve into the latest food industry trends, focusing on plant-based innovations and the evolving market dynamics. They discuss how millennials and Gen Z are driving demand for plant-based products, the rise of whole food plant-based options, and the impact of these trends on food deve…
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ENCORE - Ep 2 - Canada’s Food Guide Explained: Healthy Eating Tips, Plate Portions & Nutrition Science
31:41
31:41
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31:41We're taking a short break this week, so we're rebroadcasting our very first 'food' episode. Back in 2019, Canada made one of its first major updates to the food guide since 1977. Discover how Canada’s updated Food Guide promotes healthy eating habits, balanced meals, and science-based nutrition. Learn what to put on your plate—from fruits and vegg…
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Ep 18 - Michelle’s Bali Adventure – Yoga, Food & Travel Insights
1:06:09
1:06:09
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1:06:09In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, hosts Kevin and Michelle reconnect after a six-week hiatus. Michelle shares her transformative experience in Bali, where she achieved her goal of becoming a 200-hour certified yoga instructor. She reflects on the challenges and rewards of the journey, including the physical demands and cultural insights gaine…
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Ep 17 - The differences between plant-centered diets
29:59
29:59
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29:59Vegetarian. Vegan. Plant-based. Whole foods plan based. There are so many different terms being used these days, it’s hard to keep up. And it’s not just me getting confused! Michelle tackles a listener question who asks for some clarity around the differences between some of these nutritional plant-centered models. Connect on Facebook or email at n…
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Ep 16 - The Science-Backed Health Benefits of Tea – Immunity, Heart Health & Cancer Prevention
24:49
24:49
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24:49In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle continue their deep dive into the powerful health benefits of tea. Discover how compounds like catechins, theaflavins, and EGCG found in green, black, and oolong teas contribute to immune system support, cardiovascular health, and cancer prevention. Backed by recent studies and practical ta…
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Ep 15 - The Nutrition of Tea – Cognitive Benefits, Antioxidants & Chronic Disease Prevention
37:32
37:32
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37:32In this enlightening episode of Nutrition for Noobs, hosts Kevin and Michelle build upon their previous discussion about tea’s chemical properties and dive into fresh highlights from a recent scientific symposium. Discover how compounds found in green, black, and oolong teas—like catechins, L‑theanine, and caffeine—support attention, stress respons…
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Ep 14 - Should You Drink Tea When You're Sick? – Exploring Herbal Remedies & Immune Support
54:07
54:07
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54:07In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Kevin and Michelle sip their way through a discussion on whether drinking tea can actually help you recover from illness. They explore the science behind herbal teas like ginger, chamomile, peppermint, and echinacea, and how their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting properties may affect com…
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Ep 13 - What Are Phytonutrients? Benefits of Plant Compounds for Health & Disease Prevention
54:10
54:10
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54:10Discover the power of phytonutrients as Kevin and Michelle explore the diverse family of plant compounds that go beyond basic nutrition to support your health—like antioxidants, flavonoids, carotenoids, and more. Learn how these bioactive compounds help reduce inflammation, protect against chronic diseases, and promote overall wellness. Whether you…
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Ep 12 - How to Eat Healthy at Restaurants: Smart Dining Out Tips
30:30
30:30
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30:30Struggling to eat healthy when dining out? In a continuation of last episode's discussion, Michelle shares practical tips to make better food choices at restaurants—without sacrificing flavour or fun. From plant-based ordering hacks to global inspiration from Japan, Myanmar, and Ireland, learn how to navigate menus, plan ahead, and stay aligned wit…
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Ep 11 - Tips and Tactics for Changing Eating Habits - Sustainable Nutrition Strategies
1:01:57
1:01:57
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1:01:57Discover effective tips and tactics for changing your eating habits in this insightful episode of Nutrition for Noobs. Join Kevin Harries and Michelle as they share practical strategies for sustainable nutrition, including goal setting, overcoming food triggers, and building healthier habits gradually. Whether you're looking to improve your diet, b…
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Ep 10 - Understanding Dietary Fats & Food Labels: Your Guide to Healthy Fats
47:12
47:12
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47:12Michelle breaks down the essentials of dietary fats—what they are, the differences between saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats, and how to read food labels to make healthier choices. Learn why some fats are beneficial while others can raise your risk for heart disease, and how plant-based diets can help you optimize fat intake. This episode prov…
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Ep 9 - Exploring Human Evolution: Were We Hunters, Gatherers, or Both?
37:19
37:19
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37:19In Episode 9 of Nutrition for Noobs, hosts Kevin Harries and Michelle Pierce Hamilton explore the evolutionary origins of human diet. They examine whether our ancestors were primarily hunters, gatherers, or a combination of both, and discuss the implications of these dietary patterns on modern health and nutrition. This episode offers insights into…
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Ep 8 - Plant-Based Milk Alternatives: Nutritional Benefits & Environmental Impact
50:56
50:56
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50:56Explore the world of plant-based milk alternatives in this episode of Nutrition for Noobs. Hosts Kevin Harries and Michelle Pierce Hamilton discuss popular options like soy, oat, and coconut milk, diving into their nutritional profiles, health benefits, and environmental impacts. Whether you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply curious about dai…
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Ep 7 - Should You Quit Dairy? The Truth About Milk, Hormones, and Health
36:36
36:36
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36:36In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, hosts Michelle and Kevin dive deep into the nutritional pros and cons of dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. From lactose intolerance and ethical concerns to calcium, casein, and hormonal impact, this is your no-BS guide to understanding dairy from a beginner-friendly, evidence-based perspective. Wh…
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Ep 6 - How to transition to a more plant-based diet
42:34
42:34
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42:34In Episode 4 we talked about protein, and in episode 5, we covered the gut biome and how we (literally) are what we eat. But for anyone wanting to transition their diet to being more plant-forward, the big question becomes “how?” Thankfully, we have Michelle to guide us. In this episode, she talks us through some of the steps you can take to improv…
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Ep 5 - Gut Health Explained: Microbiome Myths, Fermented Foods & Probiotic Truths
35:30
35:30
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35:30Curious about gut health and how your microbiome really works? In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle unpacks the fascinating science behind the gut microbiome, its impact on your immune system, digestion, cravings, and mental health. Discover why store-bought probiotics might be overrated, how fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut c…
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Ep 4 - Why Protein Matters: Animal vs Plant Protein Explained
40:34
40:34
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40:34In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, Michelle breaks down everything you need to know about protein — why it’s essential for muscle growth, metabolism, and overall health. They explore the differences between animal-based and plant-based proteins, discussing digestibility, amino acid profiles, and real-world impacts on your diet. Whether you're …
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Ep 3 - How Much Water Should You Really Drink? Hydration Myths & Facts
44:40
44:40
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44:40In this episode of Nutrition for Noobs, co-hosts Michelle and Kevin dive into the science of hydration. They explore the varying recommendations on daily water intake, discuss the factors that influence individual hydration needs, and debunk common myths surrounding water consumption. From understanding the difference between thirst and actual hydr…
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Ep 2 - Canada’s Food Guide Explained: Healthy Eating Tips, Plate Portions & Nutrition Science
30:11
30:11
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30:11Back in 2019, Canada made one of its first major updates to the food guide since 1977. Discover how Canada’s updated Food Guide promotes healthy eating habits, balanced meals, and science-based nutrition. Learn what to put on your plate—from fruits and veggies to quality proteins—and why milk, juice, and meat are no longer mandatory. Please subscri…
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Ep 1 - Pleased to Meet Us! – A Fun Deep Dive into Nutritional Myths & Foundations
36:03
36:03
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36:03Join voice actor Kevin Harries (the “noob”) and certified holistic nutritionist Michelle Pierce‑Hamilton in the inaugural episode of Nutrition for Noobs. Discover how Kevin, approaching his 50s, confronts the confusion around food and eating habits — and why nutrition is more than just “eat this, avoid that.” Michelle shares her journey from projec…
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Trailer - Nutrition for Noobs: Fun, Fascinating Facts & Easy Tips for Better Health
0:53
0:53
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0:53Join besties Michelle (the nutritionist) and Kevin (the noob) in Nutrition for Noobs, the podcast that makes learning about food and health simple, surprising, and fun! From walnuts that look like brains to busting everyday myths, we break down nutrition into bite-sized, entertaining episodes. Whether you're just starting out or want to sharpen you…
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