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In a world of influencers posing as experts, and a time when the public’s trust in media is at an all time low, especially when it comes to nutrition and diets, Dr. Melina presents the Practically Healthy podcast. Drawing from her 20+ years experience as a nutrition MD and media contributor, along with cutting edge scientific studies and REAL facts, Dr. Melina will translate the latest health and wellness trends into what you should do, can do and will do to live your happiest, healthiest, best version of yourself. Each week, Dr. Melina will sit down with a preeminent health and fitness expert, celebrity, athlete, or wellness entrepreneur and discuss buzzworthy topics including intermittent fasting, the Ketogenic diet, mental heath, CBD products, HIIT training and more. Each episode will educate listeners and provide practical health and fitness solutions they can implement into their own busy lives. As a multi-tasking mother of two, small business owner and “reluctant cook” herself, Dr. Melina will serve up her tips and tricks with her signature wit and humor that will keep the listener engaged, entertained and coming back week after week.
Episodes

Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Gut Health & Ultraprocessed Foods with Dr. Janese Laster
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Dr. Janese Laster, a quadruple board-certified gastroenterologist, obesity medicine and nutrition specialist discusses the impact of processed foods and emulsifiers on gut health. She explains that emulsifiers, such as polysorbate 80 and carrageenan, make foods shelf-stable but can disrupt the gut's mucosal layer, leading to inflammation and symptoms like bloating and constipation. Laster emphasizes the importance of fiber and natural sweeteners over artificial ones. She also highlights the role of GLP-1 in appetite regulation and weight management, noting that a balanced diet rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats can naturally boost GLP-1 levels. Laster advises against artificial sweeteners and stresses the importance of whole foods for gut health.