The Real Dish

What is going on with the return of the super-skinny celebrity trend we thought we left back in the '90s? From red carpets to social media feeds, a new wave of dramatic weight loss has many women wondering if we're headed back to the era of heroin chic, crash diets, and impossible beauty standards. For those of us who grew up during the Kate Moss years, it feels eerily familiar—and frankly, a little alarming. In this episode of The Real Dish, Mareya takes a closer look at the cultural obsession with being thin and asks a more important question: What is it costing us? As celebrities grow visibly smaller, women everywhere are being sold the same old message in a new package—that thinner is better. But science tells a different story. Muscle, not skinniness, is one of the greatest predictors of longevity, independence, metabolic health, and quality of life as we age. Mareya shares her personal journey from growing up in the age of diet culture to becoming a passionate advocate for strength, resilience, and healthy aging. She also tackles the rise of GLP-1 medications, what happens when appetite disappears but nutritional needs don't, and why so many women are unknowingly sacrificing muscle in pursuit of a smaller number on the scale. If you're tired of shrinking yourself and ready to build a body that supports the life you want to live, this episode is for you. Because the goal was never to be skinny. The goal is to be strong. In this episode: Why the return of extreme thinness should concern women How the Kate Moss era shaped a generation's relationship with food and body image The surprising link between muscle and longevity What women need to know about GLP-1 medications and muscle loss Why protein becomes more important after 40 Strength training strategies for every age and fitness level How to measure progress beyond the scale What it means to age with power, not fear It's time to stop chasing smaller and start building stronger. Your future self will thank you.

Welcome to the season of life where you stop living on autopilot. In this episode of The Real Dish, Mareya dives into the Midlife Audit—a simple but transformative process for evaluating where you are, where you've been, and where you want to go next. We'll unpack the signs that it's time for a reset, why change often feels uncomfortable before it feels liberating, and how to embrace reinvention as a natural part of growth. Whether you're navigating menopause, an empty nest, a career shift, or simply a desire for something more, this conversation will help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of possibility. A midlife audit isn't about judging the life you've built. It's about making sure the life you're feeding next still fits who you've become. Because your most powerful era isn't behind you - it's right now.

The FDA is finally banning a few food dyes... but why are we still swallowing chemicals that Europe kicked to the curb over a decade ago? Your protein bar, your salad dressing, even your kid's cereal — they're all hiding ingredients that mess with your brain, hormones, and gut... and you probably have no idea. And here's the kicker: There are over 14,000 food additives approved for use in the U.S. — many of which have never been tested for long-term safety. So yeah, pulling Red 3 is a start… but it barely scratches the surface. As consumers, we've been left to play detective — trying to decode labels, memorize chemical aliases, and guess whether what we're eating is actually safe. So in today's episode, we're breaking it all down. What the FDA's announcement really means, why it's taken so long, and what you can do right now to stop being a food system guinea pig and start taking back control of your plate. JUST FOR YOU: Grab my FREE 7-day smoothie challenge recipe guide here and fuel up on high-powered sustenance to get you ready for summer. https://chefmareya.com/ Superfood Sprinkle: It's your last chance to grab our Superfood Sprinkle Gift Box before she goes buh-bye. Over $32 worth of freebies for just $34.99. https://www.mysuperfoodsprinkle.com/products/buy-1-get-a-free-refill-shipping Welcome to The Real Dish, the podcast where we break down what's really going on in our food system — without the fluff, fillers, or funky additives. I'm your host, Chef Mareya — chef, nutritionist, mom, food activist, and the creator of Superfood Sprinkle and EatCleaner. And today, we're peeling back the label on something that should be good news… but needs a deeper look. The FDA just announced that artificial colors — like Red 3, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 — are being phased out within the next two years. Yes, they're finally listening to the science, the petitions, and the parents who've been shouting this from the rooftops for decades. And while that's a step in the right direction, here's the truth: it's not enough. Cleaning up our food supply isn't just about removing bright red cereal dye. It's about looking at everything that's slipping into our food system — and what it's doing to our bodies. So in this episode, we're unpacking the Top 10 Food Issues You Should Actually Be Paying Attention To — with real talk, real solutions, and zero guilt. Let's dig in. 🥄 SEGMENT 2: The 10 Food Issues That Deserve Our Attention (And What To Do Instead) 1. Ultra-Processed Foods Are Still the Real Villain We're talking beyond junk food — this includes "healthy" snacks like protein bars, frozen meals, and meat substitutes. If it's shelf-stable for 3 years and made in a lab, it's not fuel. It's filler. 🎯 Instead: Think real food first. Keep it simple — fruits, veggies, eggs, nuts, lentils, clean protein. Snack on what your body recognizes as food. 2. Artificial Sweeteners: The Bitter Truth Sucralose, aspartame, and friends are marketed as "guilt-free," but studies show they can wreck your gut microbiome, mess with insulin, and leave you craving even more sweets. 🎯 Instead: Try monk fruit or stevia in their purest form, or use spices like cinnamon and vanilla to retrain your sweet tooth. Fruit's sweetness + fiber = win-win. 3. Artificial Colors & Flavors = Chemical Confetti Sure, Red 3 is on its way out — but others are still around. These synthetic ingredients don't nourish you — they trick your brain and burden your liver. 🎯 Instead: Turmeric, beet juice, spirulina, and real herbs pack both color and health benefits. Bonus: they actually do something for your body. 4. Inflammatory Oils Are Still Sneaking In Cheap seed oils like soybean, corn, and canola are oxidized, processed, and high in omega-6 fats that can increase inflammation — especially harmful for your heart, joints, and hormones. 🎯 Instead: Cook with avocado oil, olive oil, ghee, and grass-fed butter. These support hormonal balance and have a better heat profile. 5. Endocrine Disruptors in Packaging Plastics, can linings, and waxy wrappers often contain hormone-disrupting chemicals that mimic estrogen — which is especially risky during perimenopause and beyond. 🎯 Instead: Use glass, stainless steel, and silicone storage. Look for BPA-free cans and never, ever microwave plastic. Hormone health starts with what you store your food in. 6. Pesticide Residues on Produce Even your "healthy" kale could be laced with chemicals. Pesticides like glyphosate have been linked to gut issues, hormone disruption, and even cancer. 🎯 Instead: Buy organic for the Dirty Dozen, rinse produce thoroughly, and use a food-safe wash (like EatCleaner!) to help remove waxes and residues. Cleaner food = cleaner cells. 7. America's Fiber Deficiency = Gut Dysfunction Less than 5% of Americans get enough fiber. That means bloating, slow digestion, blood sugar spikes, and poor detox. Gut health isn't optional — it's foundational. 🎯 Instead: Aim for 25–30g a day. Add chia, flax, lentils, oats, berries, leafy greens, and eat the peel when you can. Your microbiome will thank you. 8. Additives & Preservatives with Hidden Side Effects From titanium dioxide to carrageenan, many additives are legal… but are they safe long-term? Some disrupt digestion, immunity, and even your brain fog levels. 🎯 Instead: Stick to foods with short, recognizable ingredient lists. If it sounds like a lab experiment, skip it. Cook from scratch more often — your body deserves the real thing. 9. Antibiotics in Livestock Are Still a Problem Antibiotics in meat don't just affect animals — they disrupt your gut bacteria and fuel antibiotic resistance. 🎯 Instead: Look for "antibiotic-free," "organic," or "pasture-raised" labels on meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy. Quality matters more than quantity. 10. Genetically Modified Ingredients (GMOs) Are Harder to Spot Than Ever Most corn, soy, and canola in the U.S. are genetically engineered to tolerate heavy pesticide spraying — which means you're likely consuming those chemicals, too. 🎯 Instead: Choose USDA Organic or "Non-GMO Project Verified" when buying processed or packaged goods. Avoid hidden GMOs by limiting processed foods altogether. 🔁 QUICK SUMMARY: What You Can Start Doing Today * Read ingredient labels like you're scanning a dating app — no red flags. * Eat more plants, especially in their whole form. * Cook at home more often with real, colorful, nourishing ingredients. * Switch out seed oils and artificial sweeteners for gut-loving, hormone-supportive options. * Store food in materials that love your hormones back. * Support brands doing better. Vote with your fork. 🎙️ OUTRO So yes, we're getting rid of some food dyes — finally. But that's just the appetizer. If we want the full entrée of health, we need to look at what's in our food, how it's made, what it's stored in, and how it fuels or fails us. The good news? You don't need to overhaul your life overnight. Start small. Make one better swap this week. Upgrade one meal. Read one more label. Awareness is the gateway to action — and once you know better, you eat better. If this episode gave you something to chew on, make sure to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with someone who's still living on rainbow-colored cereal and Splenda coffee. Until next time, stay spicy, stay smart, and keep dishing the truth.

Hey fitfam, welcome back to The Real Dish—where we keep it real about food, wellness, and living your best, most nourished life. I'm Chef Mareya, The Fit Foodie, and today we're diving into the sometimes ridiculous, often confusing world of TikTok food myths. We've all seen those 15-second videos that swear one food will change your life, heal your gut, cure your skin, and probably pay your bills. But what's the truth? Today, I'm breaking down 10 of the most viral food myths—and giving you the real deal on what's fact, what's fiction, and what's somewhere in between. Let's dig in! P.S. If this was helpful, would you share it with your friends and family? That's my virtual tip jar. :-) Chef Mareya Recomends For my favorite enzymes to help with digestion, try Masszymes from BIoptimzers and get an additional 10% off: https://bioptimizers.com/shop/products/masszymes I'm a big fan of electrolytes for hydration. Try out Sports Research electrolytes, made with coconut water and no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. https://www.sportsresearch.com/products/hydrate-electrolytes-packets I've been loving the greens, too! https://www.sportsresearch.com/products/organic-greens Show notes: Myth #1: "Raw garlic on an empty stomach kills parasites and viruses." Garlic is powerful, no doubt. It has antimicrobial and heart-loving properties—but eating it raw on an empty stomach like it's some ancient cure-all? That's a bit of a reach. What's real: Allicin—the active compound in garlic—is legit, especially when garlic is crushed and left to sit for 10 minutes. But no, it's not going to wipe out every parasite or virus in your body. And your breath? Let's just say...social distancing might apply. Myth #2: "Seed oils are toxic and should be avoided at all costs." This one has TikTok in a chokehold. While ultra-refined seed oils used in fast food and packaged snacks can contribute to inflammation, the word "toxic" is being thrown around way too loosely. What's real: Balance is the name of the game. Minimize processed foods, yes. But there's no need to panic over a bit of sunflower oil in your hummus. Instead, prioritize whole, anti-inflammatory fats like olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds. Myth #3: "Fruit is bad because it's full of sugar." Let me just say this loud for the people in the back: Fruit is NOT the enemy. What's real: Fruit contains natural sugars, sure—but it also comes with fiber, water, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It supports gut health, brain function, and heart health. Want to balance your blood sugar? Pair fruit with protein or fat. Don't fear the banana. Myth #4: "Chlorophyll water clears your skin and makes you smell better." It sounds magical. Glowy skin and minty freshness just by sipping green water? Mmm… not quite. What's real: Chlorophyll has some antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but the effects from bottled chlorophyll water are minor at best. If it's part of your healthy habits and makes you drink more water, cool. Just don't expect it to replace your skincare or deodorant. Myth #5: "Celery juice cures everything." It's green, it's trendy, and it had a serious moment on TikTok. But the cure-all claims? Overstated. What's real: Celery juice is hydrating and contains some minerals, but there's zero scientific proof that it heals chronic illnesses or balances your gut on its own. Want the benefits of celery? Just eat the whole stalk—and include it in a nutrient-dense, fiber-rich diet. Myth #6: "The carnivore diet is the healthiest way to eat." Meat-only diet = peak health? That's what some TikTokers claim. But science and long-term health markers say otherwise. What's real: Eliminating ultra-processed foods can make any restrictive diet feel good at first. But going completely carnivore cuts out essential fiber, antioxidants, and plant compounds that support your gut, heart, and brain. Long-term? It can increase your risk of nutrient imbalances, inflammation, and chronic disease. Plants matter. Period. Myth #7: "You should never eat after 6 PM." TikTok loves a strict rule. But food timing isn't one-size-fits-all. What's real: Late-night eating can disrupt digestion and sleep if you're overeating or eating heavy, sugary foods. But your metabolism doesn't just shut off at 6 PM. Focus on what and how much you're eating, not just the clock. Myth #8: "Frozen fruits and veggies are less nutritious than fresh." This one's an old myth that keeps getting recycled. TikTok just made it trend again. What's real: Frozen produce is often flash-frozen at peak ripeness, locking in nutrients. In some cases, it can even be more nutritious than "fresh" produce that's been sitting in transit or on store shelves for days. Keep your freezer stocked—it's a budget-friendly nutrition hack. Myth #9: "You need to drink a gallon of water a day." It sounds simple and motivational: a gallon a day keeps the toxins away. But is it necessary? What's real: Hydration matters—but your needs vary by body size, activity, climate, and diet. Forcing a gallon of water can actually flush out electrolytes and leave you feeling off. Instead, drink consistently, watch your urine color (pale yellow is ideal), and eat hydrating foods like fruits and veggies. Myth #10: "Alkaline foods can change your body's pH and prevent disease." The "alkaline diet" trend got a boost on TikTok with claims that it prevents cancer, cures inflammation, and balances your pH. Sounds great, right? What's real: Your body tightly regulates blood pH on its own. You cannot change your body's overall pH through food. That said, alkaline foods like leafy greens, fruits, and veggies are still great for you—not because of their pH, but because they're packed with nutrients. So yes to greens, no to magical thinking. The Real Dish Takeaway Host: Here's what I want you to walk away with: The truth isn't always trending—but it always works. Don't let a 15-second video override your common sense or your body's wisdom. Be curious, question boldly, and nourish yourself with balance, not extremes. If this episode cleared the confusion for you, share it with a friend who's been sucked into the TikTok rabbit hole. And DM me if there's a myth you want me to bust next. I'm here for it. Until next time, eat like you give a fork. Love you, mean it. Bye!

Today, we're diving into a controversial topic: intuitive eating. You've probably heard that intuitive eating is the ultimate way to build a healthy relationship with food. But does it really work for midlife women who want to manage their hormones, optimize their health, and build muscle? The truth is, while intuitive eating has some benefits, it's not always the best approach for midlife women. In this episode, we're breaking down why—and what you can do instead. Show notes; Try my FitLife Foodie Meal Prep App and eat for your specific goals and needs - because no one is like you! https://mealprepapp.chefmareya.com/ Looking to curb your cravings? Does sugar have you by the neck? Try out my Eat To Thrive program and retrain your tastebuds to eat what's best for your body. 90% of your success is at the end of your fork. I'll show you how. https://chefmareya.mykajabi.com/eat-to-thrive-program Fit and Fab over 40 I'm sharing my secrets that help you age backwards and get stronger and fitter (and of course, fabber) than ever. I'll share them all with you. We do this in a safe, supportive community of other like-minded women who want to be FIT and FAB over 40. https://chefmareya.mykajabi.com/fit-and-fab-over-40-sales-page-1

In today's episode, we're diving into our Fit Foodie February series. I'm thrilled to bring you "Cooking Up Confidence and Vitality." In this episode, we're going to explore how the food we eat can boost our energy, sharpen our minds, and build the kind of confidence that transforms our lives. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your journey toward a healthier lifestyle, stick with me for the next 30 minutes for some inspiring insights, actionable tips, and even a delicious recipe that you can try at home. My goal is to help you live your best fitlife and that means you SHINE at every age and stage. Superfood Sprinkle: Upgrade your plate with Chef Mareya's delicious blend of 13 different powerful superfoods and spices to add flavor and function to every dish - including antioxidants, adaptogens, electrolytes, anti-inflammatory ingredients and more. Right now, get over $32 worth of freebies with the purchase of our Starter Gift Box. Visit https://www.mysuperfoodsprinkle.com/products/buy-1-get-a-free-refill-shipping Not sure what to eat every week? Check out our Meal Prep App and get fully customizable meal plans with macros for your specific goals. Head to: https://mealprepapp.chefmareya.com/ Need more guidance? If you're interested in being coached by Chef Mareya, you're in luck! Receive 5 free recipes from her book at www.chefmareya.com and be the first to know when she opens up her next group starting March 4th.

Welcome back to The Real Dish—the place where we serve up no-fluff conversations about health, wellness, and all the juicy details women want to know but might not talk about enough. I'm Chef Mareya, and today we're diving headfirst into a topic that's been the center of many debates, doctor visits, and Google searches: Hormone Replacement Therapy, or HRT, versus the natural approaches women around the world use to manage menopause. Now, menopause isn't a one-size-fits-all experience—it's as unique as we are. And while it comes with its challenges (hello, hot flashes, mood swings, and brain fog), this phase can also be empowering, once you figure out what works for you. So grab your tea, kombucha, or whatever keeps you cool, because we're about to break it all down! Products to help you naturally manage menopause symptoms: Superfood Sprinkle: Spice blends filled with antioxidants and adaptogens. Use code VIP15 for 15% off your first order: https://bit.ly/40ydh8r Sports Research : Magnesium and Blood Sugar supplements, Evening Primrose Oil, D3+K2, Omega 3, L-Theanine, Ashwagandha and more amazing supplements for managing menopause. Use code ChefMareya20 for 20% off: https://bit.ly/4ahLNXT Cozy Earth bedding and loungewear to stay cool at night: Use code mareya40 for 40% off: https://bit.ly/40kqWyC

Today we're diving deep into a powerful shift that's redefining midlife as a time of growth, strength, and vibrant living. I'm interviewing Mimi Ison, known as HeyMiddleAge on social media, whose grown a huge following as she shares all of her experiences navigating midlife and embracing things like boxing, shuffling, jumping rope and natural beauty. And she's doing it WELL. I'd like to think that the days of outdated stereotypes are behind us. The conversation around midlife women is changing, and it's louder, prouder, and more empowering than ever. We're talking about women who are not just surviving these years but thriving, embracing health, wellness, career transitions, passions, and powerful community connections. So, grab a smoothie or cup of tea, or lace up those walking shoes and get your sweat on, and join us as we explore the stories, strategies, and supercharged mindsets that are breaking boundaries and celebrating midlife for what it truly is: a time of unstoppable energy, wisdom, and renewal. Grab a seat at the Chef's Table and let's dig in.