Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition - podcast cover

Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition

Optimal Living Daily | Dr. Neal Malikoldpodcast.com
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...

Episodes

2905: The 80 20 Rule - Get Results Without Heavy Restrictions by Lea Genders of Lea Genders Fitness

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 2905: The 80/20 rule offers a sustainable approach to nutrition, allowing 80% of your food intake to support your health goals while reserving 20% for indulgences. Lea Genders highlights how balance, not rigid restrictions, fosters long-term success and a healthier mindset. Rather than meticulously planning treats, she suggests letting life ...

Mar 11, 202512 minEp. 2905

2904: Can You Catch Heart Disease From A Chair by Bryce Hastings with Les Mills on How to be Healthier

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 2904: Sitting may be the new smoking, as Bryce Hastings explores the surprising link between prolonged chair use and heart disease. Studying the Hadza people of Tanzania reveals that it's not just sitting, but how we sit that matters; squatting and kneeling activate muscles, reducing harmful triglyceride buildup. Simple changes, like standin...

Mar 10, 202510 minEp. 2904

2903: When Life Hands You Problems, Use This Flowchart by Nia Shanks on Personal Growth and Development

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 2903: Life’s problems can feel overwhelming, but many have a simple solution. Nia Shanks shares a refreshingly honest approach using a straightforward flowchart: if you can influence the outcome, take action; if not, let it go. By applying this mindset, everyday frustrations lose their power, and real change becomes possible, whether it’s he...

Mar 09, 202510 minEp. 2903

2902: 5 Things That Harm A Girl’s Body Image by Maryann Jacobsen with Real Mom Nutrition on Mental Wellbeing

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 2902: Girls’ body image can take a major hit during puberty, but parents can help shape a healthy perspective. Maryann Jacobsen highlights five common mistakes, such as restricting portions, labeling food as “good” or “bad,” and neglecting the impact of media and friendships, that can harm a girl’s self-image. By fostering trust in appetite ...

Mar 09, 202513 minEp. 2902

2901: New Benefits of Mind-body Interventions by Carolyn Joyce with Psych Alive on Meditation and Yoga

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 2901: Mind-body interventions like yoga, meditation, and tai chi do more than just reduce stress, they may actually alter gene expression and lower the risk of inflammation-related diseases. Carolyn Joyce explores research showing how these practices counteract the harmful effects of chronic stress on a molecular level, potentially slowing c...

Mar 08, 202512 minEp. 2901

2900: How to Manage Hypertension or High Blood Pressure Without Prescription Medication

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 2900: Dr. Neal Malik explains how blood pressure naturally rises with age and what can be done to manage it without relying on medication. Regular high-intensity interval training, reducing sodium intake, increasing potassium-rich foods, and following the DASH diet all support heart health and may lower hypertension risk. Even modest weight ...

Mar 07, 202513 minEp. 2900

2899: [Part 2] From Weight Loss to Maintenance: How to Navigate a Tricky Transition by Rachel Trotta

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 2899: Weighing yourself regularly can be a powerful tool for weight maintenance, helping to catch small fluctuations before they turn into significant gains. Rachel Trotta highlights how monitoring trends, rather than obsessing over daily numbers, allows for subtle course corrections that keep progress on track. She also emphasizes the impor...

Mar 06, 202511 minEp. 2899

2898: [Part 1] From Weight Loss to Maintenance: How to Navigate a Tricky Transition by Rachel Trotta

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 2898: Losing weight is one thing, but keeping it off long-term requires a shift in mindset and habits. Rachel Trotta challenges the myth that maintaining weight is harder than losing it, emphasizing the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes. She shares key strategies for navigating the transition, including keeping exercise a priority ...

Mar 05, 202511 minEp. 2898

2897: Is Eating While Standing Up Bad for You by Alina Petre with Healthline on How to Improve Digestion

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 2897: Alina Petre explores how eating while standing affects digestion, metabolism, and hunger levels. While standing may speed up digestion and slightly boost calorie burn, it can also increase hunger, cause bloating, and lead to faster food consumption. For those with acid reflux, standing upright while eating could help reduce symptoms, b...

Mar 04, 202513 minEp. 2897

2896: Always Dominate Monday AND Is It Really Worth It? By Steve Kamb of Nerd Fitness on FitSpo

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 2896: Steve Kamb emphasizes that Mondays set the tone for the entire week, and how you approach them can make or break your momentum. By establishing solid routines, prioritizing the right tasks, and maintaining a strong mindset, you can transform Mondays from a dreaded chore into a powerful launchpad for success. Small, intentional changes ...

Mar 03, 202510 minEp. 2896

2895: Varying Your Exercise Routine by Steve Pavlina on Workout Advice

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 2895: Mixing up your exercise routine prevents boredom, enhances motivation, and leads to better overall fitness. Steve Pavlina explores the benefits of variety in workouts, explaining how adapting to new challenges keeps both body and mind engaged. By experimenting with different exercises, intensities, and environments, you can make fitnes...

Mar 02, 20259 minEp. 2895

2894: Dealing with Debt In A Healthy Way by Andrea Joy of Saving Joyfully on How to Reduce Money Stress

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 2894: Struggling with debt can be overwhelming, but Andrea Joy shares a practical, balanced approach to managing it without sacrificing mental well-being. By creating a realistic repayment plan, maintaining a healthy money mindset, and focusing on progress over perfection, it's possible to regain financial control. These strategies help redu...

Mar 02, 202510 minEp. 2894

2893: How To Amp Up Your Fire with These Ten Energy Hacks by Susan Kolon of Kolon Performance Strategies

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 2893: Getting through the day with energy and enthusiasm is easier with the right habits. Susan Kolon shares ten natural ways to boost your energy, from improving sleep and exercise to tapping into the power of music, laughter, and personal achievement. These simple yet effective strategies help sustain motivation and vitality, no energy dri...

Mar 01, 202511 minEp. 2893

2892: Q&A - Should I Start a Ketogenic Diet or Supplement with Ketones?

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 2892: The ketogenic diet has surged in popularity, but is it truly beneficial for everyone? Dr. Neal Malik breaks down the science behind ketosis, exploring its origins, potential benefits, and risks. He also discusses whether supplementing with ketones offers the same advantages as following a strict ketogenic diet, providing insights into ...

Feb 28, 202512 minEp. 2892

2891: Million Dollar Question: Can I Lose Weight Without Exercise by DIYActive

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 2891: Most weight loss happens in the kitchen, not the gym. While exercise is beneficial for overall health, studies suggest diet plays a much bigger role in shedding pounds. From staying hydrated and downsizing dinner plates to cutting back on processed foods and allowing occasional treats, small, sustainable changes can lead to lasting wei...

Feb 27, 202512 minEp. 2891

2890: Protein Timing: Does It Really Matter? by Eric Bach of Bach Performance

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 2890: Consuming protein at the right time has long been debated in the fitness world, but does it really make a difference? Eric Bach breaks down the myths surrounding protein timing, revealing that total daily intake matters far more than the timing of each meal or shake. Instead of obsessing over post-workout windows, focus on hitting your...

Feb 26, 202513 minEp. 2890

2889: Do you Lack Energy and Motivation AND The Benefits of Muscle by Chalene Johnson

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 2889: Feeling stuck in a rut? Chalene Johnson shares simple yet effective strategies to regain motivation and energy, from setting realistic goals to incorporating exercise into your routine. Plus, learn why lifting heavy weights won’t make you “too big” and how strength training can help you burn fat and boost overall health. Read along wit...

Feb 25, 202513 minEp. 2889

2888: Set (and Achieve) Goals Like Google and Bono with OKRs by Riley Pearce with Free Form Fitness

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 2888: Riley Pearce explains how breaking big goals into smaller, measurable milestones can keep motivation high and progress steady, whether you're aiming for a fitness goal, a career milestone, or a personal achievement. By focusing on both the "what" (objective) and the "how" (key results), OKRs offer a structured approach to success with ...

Feb 24, 202510 minEp. 2888

2887: You Need An Exercise Routine For Your Brain by Tyler Tervooren of Riskology

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 2887: Tyler Tervooren highlights an eight-year study revealing that mentally challenging work helps maintain cognitive health and agility well into old age. By intentionally engaging in difficult tasks at work, home, and in relationships, you can build a brain that stays sharp for life. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://w...

Feb 23, 202510 minEp. 2887

2886: What Are You Hungry For by Heather Aardema with No Sidebar on Essentialism

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 2886: Finding herself constantly chasing more, more experiences, more commitments, and more food, Heather Aardema realized that her relentless hunger was leaving her overwhelmed and unfulfilled. Inspired by Greg McKeown’s Essentialism, she learned the power of saying no and focusing on what truly matters. By embracing a life of “less but bet...

Feb 23, 202510 minEp. 2886

2885: Why Dieting Never Works: 4 Reasons to Stop by Jenn Hand with Tiny Buddha

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 2885: Jenn Hand explains why restrictive eating leads to cravings, disconnects you from your body’s needs, and creates a constant cycle of guilt and failure. True, lasting change comes from self-awareness, intuition, and self-compassion, not another diet. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://tinybuddha.com/blog/why-another-d...

Feb 22, 202511 minEp. 2885

2884: Electrical Muscle Stimulation - Does EMS Work?

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 2884: Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) forces muscles to contract using electrical impulses, bypassing the brain’s natural signals. Dr. Neal Malik explores research showing that while EMS can increase muscle size, it doesn’t necessarily improve strength, and improper use may lead to injury. Since studies on combining EMS with exercise are...

Feb 21, 202510 minEp. 2884

2883: The Action Habit: Put Everything Into the First Step by Leo Babauta of Zen Habits

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 2883: Leo Babauta shares a simple yet powerful method: pick one important action, make it tiny and easy, create positive feedback, fully commit to the task, and repeat. By consistently taking micro-actions, you rewire your brain for productivity and progress, transforming even the biggest challenges into manageable steps. Read along with the...

Feb 20, 202512 minEp. 2883

2882: The Most Important Life Lesson From Kill Bill AND What Should Be vs. What Is by Roger Lawson

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 2882: Roger Lawson challenges us to confront our fears head-on, pushing just beyond our comfort zones to create a life worth living. He also emphasizes the importance of objective measurement, wishful thinking won't get you results, but tracking your progress and adjusting accordingly will. Whether it's fitness, career, or personal growth, t...

Feb 19, 202513 minEp. 2882

2881: Simplify Your Mornings by Melani Schweder of A Brighter Wild on A Perfect Day

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 2881: Melani Schweder shares practical strategies for simplifying your mornings to reduce stress and increase productivity. By preparing the night before, minimizing decision fatigue, and incorporating mindfulness, you can create a calm and intentional start to the day. A streamlined morning routine fosters ease, focus, and a sense of balanc...

Feb 18, 20259 minEp. 2881

2880: Staying Healthy Pays Off by Ryan Frederick of Here.life on How to Reduce Medical Costs

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 2880: Ryan Frederick highlights how good health can reduce costly medical expenses, delay or eliminate the need for long-term care, and ultimately extend your "wealthspan." With simple lifestyle choices like exercise, strong social connections, and a supportive environment, you can boost both your longevity and financial well-being without e...

Feb 17, 202512 minEp. 2880

2879: Weekly Cardio & Strength Sessions & What’s Right For You? & Strong To The Core: Where Movement Starts by Eric Leija

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 2879: Eric Leija breaks down the ideal balance of strength and cardio workouts for muscle gain, fat loss, and overall fitness. Strength training at least three times a week and incorporating 3-5 cardio sessions can maximize results. He also highlights the importance of core strength for posture, injury prevention, and functional movement. Re...

Feb 16, 202513 minEp. 2879

2878: Confident About What? by Greg Audino on How to Build Confidence

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 2878: Greg Audino challenges the conventional idea that confidence is built solely on success, arguing that real self-assurance comes from accepting discomfort without judgment. By acknowledging moments of insecurity and recognizing that external challenges only have as much power as we give them, we unlock a deeper, more sustainable confide...

Feb 16, 202510 minEp. 2878

2877: Something Beats Nothing by Ross Enamait of Ross Training on How to Exercise Consistently

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 2877: Ross Enamait emphasizes the power of doing something rather than nothing, debunking the all-or-nothing mindset that holds many back. With a few focused minutes, consistent effort, and a willingness to adapt, you can maintain strength, health, and momentum, no matter how chaotic life gets. Read along with the original article(s) here: h...

Feb 15, 202511 minEp. 2877

2876: What are the Benefits and Risks with Kombucha

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 2876: Dr. Neal dives into the world of kombucha, exploring its origins, fermentation process, and the science behind its claimed health benefits. While kombucha is often praised for aiding digestion and boosting immunity, research remains inconclusive, and potential risks exist, especially with homemade versions. Learn what to watch out for ...

Feb 14, 20259 minEp. 2876