Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition
Health & Wellness Podcasts
Optimal Health Daily, hosted by the esteemed Dr. Neal Malik, a tenured professor, registered dietitian nutritionist, and certified exercise physiologist, is a treasure trove of health and wellness insights. Dr. Neal delves into the latest research and timeless wisdom in nutrition, fitness, and diet, presenting them in easy-to-understand, digestible episodes. His expertise shines through as he handpicks and narrates the most informative and inspiring blog posts, offering practical tips and motivational stories to help listeners on their journey to optimal health. Each episode is a blend of science-based information and real-life application, making it a unique resource for anyone looking to improve their health and wellbeing. Dr. Malik's approach is holistic and inclusive, recognizing the importance of balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness. By focusing on diet, fitness, and nutrition, each episode provides you with the tools needed to achieve your health goals. His engaging narration and the podcast's diverse range of topics make it an essential daily listen for you as you seek to lead a healthier, more balanced life. This podcast is designed for those passionate about diet, fitness, and nutrition. It’s your go-to source for practical advice on managing your diet, improving your fitness, and understanding nutrition. Each episode offers actionable steps to foster a healthier lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of diet, fitness, and nutrition in achieving optimal health. Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...
Location:
United States
Description:
Optimal Health Daily, hosted by the esteemed Dr. Neal Malik, a tenured professor, registered dietitian nutritionist, and certified exercise physiologist, is a treasure trove of health and wellness insights. Dr. Neal delves into the latest research and timeless wisdom in nutrition, fitness, and diet, presenting them in easy-to-understand, digestible episodes. His expertise shines through as he handpicks and narrates the most informative and inspiring blog posts, offering practical tips and motivational stories to help listeners on their journey to optimal health. Each episode is a blend of science-based information and real-life application, making it a unique resource for anyone looking to improve their health and wellbeing. Dr. Malik's approach is holistic and inclusive, recognizing the importance of balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness. By focusing on diet, fitness, and nutrition, each episode provides you with the tools needed to achieve your health goals. His engaging narration and the podcast's diverse range of topics make it an essential daily listen for you as you seek to lead a healthier, more balanced life. This podcast is designed for those passionate about diet, fitness, and nutrition. It’s your go-to source for practical advice on managing your diet, improving your fitness, and understanding nutrition. Each episode offers actionable steps to foster a healthier lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of diet, fitness, and nutrition in achieving optimal health. Listen now, and become an OLD friend--your optimal life awaits...
Twitter:
@OLDPodcast
Language:
English
Contact:
908-941-2454
Website:
http://oldpodcast.com/
Episodes
3221: Holiday Fitness: Healthy Christmas Food Choices by Rachel Trotta on Balanced Holiday Eating
12/13/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3221: Rachel Trotta shares how to enjoy holiday meals without compromising your health, emphasizing balance over restriction. Her approach blends practical nutrition tips with emotional awareness, helping you make intentional choices while still savoring festive traditions. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://racheltrotta.com/healthy-eating/holiday-fitness-healthy-christmas-foods/ Quotes to ponder: "Cooking is empowering, because you have the power of choice when you start your meal at the grocery store." "Focus on self-care, meaningful experiences, and human connection, not the food." "Making healthy food choices does not mean withdrawing from society during the holidays." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:44
3220: The 75 Hard Challenge Advice - Habit Formation - Starting & Maintaining Habits on Keystone Habits
12/12/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3220: Dr. Neal Malik explains why breaking one healthy habit can often unravel the rest, using the concept of keystone habits to illustrate how certain routines can drive overall momentum. He offers practical strategies for regaining consistency by identifying inspiring, achievable goals that reignite motivation and restart the ripple effect of positive behavior. Quotes to ponder: "A keystone habit is the pebble that triggers the ripple effect." "We don’t need health information, we need health inspiration." "What inspires you?" Episode references: The Power of Habit: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:23
3219: Have Yourself a Merry Little Fitmas by Victoria Jung with Free Form Fitness on Staying Festive-Fit
12/11/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3219: Victoria Jung offers smart, practical strategies to help you stay on track with your health goals during the festive season without sacrificing the joy of holiday celebrations. By keeping things simple, managing stress, and indulging mindfully, you’ll glide through the holidays feeling balanced and in control. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://freeformfitness.ca/merry-little-fitmas/ Quotes to ponder: "Hitting the gym more during/after the holidays to work off those holiday treats makes exercise a punishment for indulgence." "Your health is there with you 365 days of the year for your entire lifetime so make the holiday season a phase in your yearly training plan." "A simple check-in with yourself will help you to avoid overindulging!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:08:53
3218: The Christmas Survival Guide: 12 Tips to Keep You Feeling Your Best by Sophie Szczudlo with Ideal Nutrition
12/10/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3218: Sophie Szczudlo shares twelve practical strategies to help you enjoy the festive season without sabotaging your health goals. From mastering mindful eating to managing alcohol intake and embracing guilt-free indulgence, her tips make it easier to stay energized, nourished, and in control during the most tempting time of year. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.idealnutrition.com.au/the-christmas-survival-guide/ Quotes to ponder: "Turning up to a party hungry means you’re more likely to over-indulge on energy-dense party foods." "Eating in moderation means to eat healthy nutritious foods most of the time and to be able to indulge in pleasurable foods without any guilt on special occasions." "It’s important to treat yourself from time to time and Christmas is a perfect opportunity." Episode references: NHMRC Alcohol Guidelines: https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/health-advice/alcohol Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:13:57
3217: [Part 2] 7 Big Benefits of Blending, 5 Shocking But Healthy Foods You Can Safely Put In Your Blender and Does Blending Destroy Fiber by Ben Greenfield
12/9/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3217: Ben Greenfield explores the unique advantages of blending fruits and vegetables over juicing, emphasizing how blending preserves fiber, slows sugar absorption, and boosts satiety. Backed by research and practical tips, his insights help health-conscious readers make smarter, more nutrient-dense choices in their daily routines. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/article/nutrition-articles/benefits-of-blending/ Quotes to ponder: "Blending maintains the fiber, which slows down the rate of sugar absorption and promotes a feeling of fullness." "Juicing strips away the fiber, causing a rapid spike in blood sugar levels followed by an inevitable crash." "Blending makes it easier to consume a wider variety of vegetables in a single serving." Episode references: Glycemic Index and Blood Sugar: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/glycemic-index-and-glycemic-load-for-100-foods4/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:45
3216: [Part 1] 7 Big Benefits of Blending, 5 Shocking But Healthy Foods You Can Safely Put In Your Blender and Does Blending Destroy Fiber by Ben Greenfield
12/8/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3216: Ben Greenfield breaks down why blending might be your best-kept secret for boosting nutrient absorption, digestion, and energy. Learn how properly blended smoothies can enhance bioavailability, unlock hard-to-digest plant compounds, and help you maximize the health benefits of whole foods without sacrificing convenience. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/article/nutrition-articles/benefits-of-blending/ Quotes to ponder: "Blending is like pre-digesting your food, your blender becomes your second stomach." "Some of the most nutrient-dense parts of fruits and vegetables are trapped in fibrous matrices that your teeth and gut can’t easily break down." "When you blend, you increase the surface area of the food, allowing digestive enzymes to act more efficiently." Episode references: Nourishing Traditions: https://www.amazon.com/Nourishing-Traditions-Challenges-Politically-Dictocrats/dp/0967089735 The Bulletproof Diet: https://www.amazon.com/Bulletproof-Diet-Lose-Pounds-Increase/dp/162336518X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:12
3215: The Myth of Special AND Start Where You Are by Roger Lawson of RogLaw Fitness on Practical Personal Growth
12/7/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3215: Roger Lawson dismantles the belief that success is reserved for the extraordinary and urges us to stop waiting for perfect conditions. With equal parts honesty and motivation, he reframes progress as something built through consistent effort, not specialness, reminding us that starting from where we are is more than enough. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://roglawfitness.com/the-myth-of-special/ & https://roglawfitness.com/start-where-you-are-%E2%80%93-successful-people-series-part-3/ Quotes to ponder: "Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." "There is never a perfect time, perfect place, or perfect situation to begin." "When you let go of the need to be special, you free yourself up to simply do the work." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:46
3214: How Do Important Relationship Events Impact Our Well-Being by Dr. Bonnie Le with Luvze on Significant Relationship Changes
12/7/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3214: Dr. Bonnie Le unpacks how major relationship milestones, like moving in, marrying, or ending a relationship, affect our happiness and emotional health. Her research-backed insights reveal that while we often expect lasting emotional highs or lows from these events, our well-being tends to stabilize more quickly than we anticipate. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.luvze.com/how-do-important-relationship-events-impact-our-well-being/ Quotes to ponder: "Major life events, especially in romantic relationships, can have powerful effects on well-being, but not always in the ways we expect." "While many assume that breakups will devastate us, research suggests that the impact is often less severe and more short-lived than we predict." "Getting married is associated with a temporary increase in well-being, but over time, people generally return to their prior level of happiness." Episode references: Journal of Personality and Social Psychology: https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/psp Daniel Gilbert’s research on affective forecasting: https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_gilbert_the_psychology_of_your_future_self Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:41
3213: The Benefits Of Simplicity by Eric Leija on Minimalist Fitness
12/6/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3213: Eric Leija highlights how stripping back to the basics in fitness and nutrition can lead to more sustainable, stress-free, and long-lasting results. By focusing on natural movement and whole foods, simplicity not only reduces overwhelm but also creates a strong foundation for lifelong health. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.ericleija.com/the-benefits-of-simplicity/ Quotes to ponder: "Simple equals sustainable. Overwhelm and complication often lead to quitting." "Eat as nature intended." "You have to be doing the simple, heavy lifts (squats, lunges, presses, etc.) and bodyweight movements before you worry about adding in the trendy movements with advanced techniques and equipment." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:39
3212: Intermittent Fasting Pros and Cons from a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist on Weight Management Effects
12/5/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3212: Dr. Neal Malik breaks down the science behind intermittent fasting, explaining how it may support fat loss and metabolic health while cautioning against potential downsides like nutrient deficiencies and performance drops. He offers a clear, evidence-based perspective to help you decide if fasting fits your personal health goals. Quotes to ponder: "Short-term intermittent fasting may reduce body weight and body fat because by fasting your body relies more on your fat stores for energy." "Not eating means you're not consuming energy, protein, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients which we know are important for athletic performance and recovery." "Very low calorie diets do not have better long-term weight loss results when compared to less extreme diets." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:23
3211: Cold Weather Training Modifications by Ross Enamait of Ross Training on Winter Strength Training
12/4/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3211: Ross Enamait shares practical, experience-driven strategies for maintaining effective training routines in freezing conditions. From pre-heating your body indoors to preventing damage to gear like jump ropes and resistance bands, his cold-weather adjustments ensure consistent performance and equipment longevity, even in sub-zero garage gyms. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://rosstraining.com/blog/2014/01/cold-weather-training-modifications/ Quotes to ponder: "A frozen rope will not turn as well and it is more likely to snap." "Gloves that are too large will cause interference and could be potentially dangerous with an overhead lift." "The extended downtime means more time for the hands to become cold." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:06
3210: How To Manage Stress Over The Holidays With Exercise and Nutrition by Lea Genders on Reducing Holiday Stress
12/3/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3210: Lea Genders offers practical strategies to help reduce holiday stress through exercise, mindful eating, and self-care, without falling into the trap of perfectionism. Her advice empowers listeners to enjoy seasonal indulgences without guilt, while staying grounded in small, sustainable habits that support both mental and physical well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.leagendersfitness.com/news/how-to-manage-stress-over-the-holidays Quotes to ponder: "Running doesn't make the stressful situations go away, but it can help you think more clearly so you can deal with them better." "Give yourself some grace to enjoy the holidays." "You don't need to make drastic changes to improve your health, one small habit at a time can yield significant results over time." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:54
3209: [Part 2] Health Habits Guide: The How-To's For Body Transformation by JC Deen of JCD Fitness on Starting Healthy Habits
12/2/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3209: JC Deen breaks down how meaningful health transformation begins with identity-based habits, where lasting change stems from believing you are the type of person who lives a healthier lifestyle. By shifting your self-perception and adopting the daily behaviors of someone already where you want to be, you build consistency, discipline, and long-term results. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jcdfitness.com/2016/09/health-habits-guide/ Quotes to ponder: "You have beliefs about the world and yourself. Those beliefs dictate your actions and behaviors." "If you think you can change, and want to bad enough, you’ll start to figure out HOW to make the change." "Consistency is the mother of all progress." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:11:29
3208: [Part 1] Health Habits Guide: The How-To's For Body Transformation by JC Deen of JCD Fitness on Starting Healthy Habits
12/1/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3208: JC Deen lays out a realistic, actionable framework for creating sustainable health habits by emphasizing behavioral change over grand resolutions. Instead of overhauling your entire lifestyle at once, he shows how focusing on just one habit at a time builds real momentum and leads to lasting transformation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jcdfitness.com/2016/09/health-habits-guide/ Quotes to ponder: "Taking calculated action is a combination of being willing to do the daily work and having clarity on what needs to happen." "You start with ONE CHANGE to make, and that’s it." "Building one habit can easily lead into creating another one. Since these goals are related, this is called Habit Stacking." Episode references: The Power of Habit: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:13:02
3207: Should You Avoid Lectins? by Danielle Omar of Food Confidence on Understanding Lectins
11/30/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3207: Danielle Omar breaks down the truth about lectins, controversial plant compounds often blamed for digestive issues, and explains why avoiding them entirely may do more harm than good. With practical tips for reducing lectins through cooking methods and a call to personalize your diet based on tolerance, this article helps you navigate trendy food fears with science and common sense. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://foodconfidence.com/2019/03/19/should-you-avoid-lectins/ Quotes to ponder: "Lectins are sometimes referred to as 'anti-nutrients' because they can block absorption of other nutrients during digestion." "The amount of lectins found in the normal food supply is too low to be a real health concern for everyone." "If you have digestive issues and know that you are particularity sensitive to beans or grains, you may need to figure out if you have an issue with lectins." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:09:03
3206: PS: The Less You Spend, The Less You Need To Earn by J. Money on Simple Living
11/30/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3206: J. Money shares a personal finance breakthrough sparked by a powerful insight from Mr. Money Mustache: reducing expenses not only boosts your savings, but also lowers the amount you’ll need to live on, forever. Through his “Challenge Everything” experiment, he slashed $223 in monthly costs without sacrificing lifestyle, proving that simple, one-time changes can create lasting financial freedom. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.budgetsaresexy.com/the-less-you-spend-the-less-you-need-to-earn/ Quotes to ponder: "Every permanent drop in your spending has a double effect: it increases the amount of money you have left over to save each month, and it permanently decreases the amount you’ll need every month for the rest of your life." "Put in the money (time), and then watch the dividends (savings) roll in!" "Those who live off $2,000/mo can retire a lot earlier than those who need $10,000/mo to survive." Episode references: The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/01/13/the-shockingly-simple-math-behind-early-retirement/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:26
3205: Invest in Healthspan by Ryan Frederick of Here.Life on Long-Term Health
11/29/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3205: Ryan Frederick challenges the longevity obsession by emphasizing healthspan, the years lived with vitality and purpose, as the smarter, more fulfilling investment. He reveals how daily lifestyle choices, social connections, and even where we live play a far greater role than genetics in shaping our well-being, and how prioritizing health now can extend not just life but also financial security and quality of life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.here.life/blog/invest-in-healthspan Quotes to ponder: "A longer life is only a true gift if it’s also a healthier one." "Strong relationships are the single best predictor of health and happiness across the lifespan." "Like financial investing, health rewards those who start early, stay consistent, and think long-term." Episode references: 2023 Genworth Cost of Care Survey: https://www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/finances/cost-of-care.html The Harvard Study of Adult Development: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:27
3204: What is Seed Cycling? The Benefits of Seed Cycling and How to Seed Cycle on Hormone Health
11/28/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3204: Dr. Neal Malik breaks down the science and skepticism behind seed cycling, a trending natural approach aimed at supporting hormonal balance through diet. With a focus on women with PCOS, he highlights how specific seeds may influence estrogen and progesterone levels, offering a low-risk option worth exploring. Quotes to ponder: "Seed cycling is based on the idea that consuming specific types of seeds during different phases of a woman’s menstrual cycle will help support hormonal balance." "Flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fats. Omega-3 fats can help reduce inflammation throughout the body." "Sunflower seeds and sesame seeds are high in vitamin E and a mineral called selenium, which may help balance progesterone levels." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:08:14
3203: Check Your Ego at the Door by Jill Coleman of JillFit on Fitness Mindset
11/27/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3203: Jill Coleman explores the liberating power of not taking things personally, especially in emotionally charged spaces like fitness and physique competitions. Drawing from The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz, she challenges us to separate our self-worth from others’ actions, freeing ourselves from ego-driven narratives and victimhood. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jillfit.com/2012/05/17/fitness-egos/ Quotes to ponder: "Consider that what other people do has nothing to do with you." "Allow people to be themselves, without expectation, and you be you, without apologies." "To assume people are going about their lives deliberately doing things to offend us is SELFISH!" Episode references: The Four Agreements: https://www.amazon.com/Four-Agreements-Practical-Personal-Freedom/dp/1878424319 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:26
3202: Feel Free to Ignore This Nutrition Advice by Sally Kuzemchak of Real Mom Nutrition on Real Nutrition Basics
11/26/2025
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3202: Sally Kuzemchak dismantles seven popular but misguided pieces of nutrition advice, encouraging a more realistic and balanced approach to healthy eating. With clarity and humor, she emphasizes that nuance and context matter more than food rules, helping listeners feel empowered rather than overwhelmed at the grocery store. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.realmomnutrition.com/nutrition-advice-that-drives-me-nuts/ Quotes to ponder: "A diet so restrictive that you need to spend an entire day eating all the foods you’re normally not allowed to have is not sustainable in the long term." "So much advice about processed food is unrealistic, like 'avoid anything in a package'. As if!" "Most foods are processed in some way, including plenty of healthy staples, since processing includes canning, freezing, and chopping." Episode references: Environmental Working Group – Dirty Dozen List: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Duration:00:10:35