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

2935: What Makes a Good Training Programme? AND How to Increase Motivation by Sam Lynch of Fitnitiative

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 2935: Sam Lynch unpacks what truly makes a training program effective: it’s not about the flashiest plan, but the one you can stick to, adapt, and personalize over time. He also breaks down how motivation can be cultivated through action, goal clarity, and a healthier mindset around failure reminding us that progress is built on consistency,...

Apr 06, 202513 minEp. 2935

2934: 9 Things to Think About Before You Give Up by Marc Chernoff of Marc and Angel on Mental Health 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 2934: Marc Chernoff reminds us that giving up is often a story we tell ourselves, not a final truth. By shifting our mindset, learning from pain, and embracing life’s challenges, we create space for growth, resilience, and renewed hope. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.marcandangel.com/2012/11/02/9-things-to-think-ab...

Apr 06, 202511 minEp. 2934

2933: How to Practice Mindful Eating by Elly McGuinness on Healthy Nutrition 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 2933: Elly McGuinness breaks down how mindful eating can transform your relationship with food turning every meal into an intentional act of nourishment, gratitude, and awareness. By slowing down, engaging your senses, and tuning into your body’s signals, you'll discover not only better digestion but also a deeper appreciation for what’s on ...

Apr 05, 202513 minEp. 2933

2932: How to Stay Healthy During Cold & Flu Season - How to Boost Your Immune System

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 2932: Dr. Neal shares how to truly strengthen your immune system during cold and flu season, emphasizing foundational habits over trendy supplements. He explains how proper nutrition, regular exercise, sleep, and a healthy gut all work together to keep your defenses strong, especially in winter climates like Minnesota’s. Quotes to ponder: "P...

Apr 04, 202513 minEp. 2932

2931: Get the **** Over It! By Steve Kamb of Nerd Fitness on Healthy Living Motivation and Inspiration

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 2931: Mistakes and setbacks are inevitable, but letting them define you is a choice. Steve Kamb’s "Get the **** over it" rule is a powerful mindset shift that helps break the cycle of guilt and self-sabotage. By focusing on solutions instead of dwelling on failures, you can take control, build resilience, and keep moving forward toward your ...

Apr 03, 202511 minEp. 2931

2930: Top 3 Mistakes Runners Make In Their Off-Season by Kate Galliett of Fit For Real Life

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 2930: Improving as a runner isn’t just about logging miles, it’s about making the most of your off-season. Kate Galliett breaks down the top three mistakes runners make when training between races, from overloading on high-intensity workouts to relying too much on foam rolling. Learn how to build strength, improve mobility, and set yourself ...

Apr 02, 202513 minEp. 2930

2929: Celebrating Food by Renata Leo of Buffalo Sauce Everywhere on Mindful Eating 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 2929: Renata Leo explores the deep connection between food and emotions, emphasizing how meals are more than just sustenance, they’re tied to memories, relationships, and personal identity. She highlights the joy of indulging in favorite dishes, the nostalgia of family recipes, and the way food brings people together in celebration. By embra...

Apr 01, 202511 minEp. 2929

2928: Why Exercise Won’t Make You Thin: Part II by John Gilbert with Ben Greenfield Life

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 2928: John Gilbert challenges the argument that exercise hinders weight loss by triggering overeating, as presented in John Cloud's Time article. He highlights the importance of exercise beyond aesthetics, emphasizing its role in long-term health and chronic disease prevention. Rather than dismissing structured exercise, he advocates for a b...

Mar 31, 202512 minEp. 2928

2927: Eating Dirty Food as a Clean Eater by Tynan on Healthy Nutrition 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 2927: Tynan explores the benefits of exposing yourself to germs by practicing "eating dirty,” deliberately consuming food that has touched unclean surfaces. He argues that controlled exposure strengthens the immune system, reduces anxiety about cleanliness, and makes life more convenient. By shifting perspective on hygiene, we can cultivate ...

Mar 30, 202510 minEp. 2927

2926: New Research Suggests You Suck At Giving Advice (Especially If You Think You're Good At It) by Margo Aaron

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 2926: Margo Aaron reveals why your eagerness to give advice might be making you insufferable. A high CATB (Chomping At The Bit) score indicates you're more focused on speaking than actually helping. This breakdown of the four worst advice-givers and a three-step formula to lower your CATB score will help you become a better listener and, par...

Mar 30, 202511 minEp. 2926

2925: Upper Crossed Syndrome - Why You Need To Fix This AND How Much Protein Do You Need As You Age by Riley Pearce

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 2925: Riley Pearce explains how upper crossed syndrome, a common postural issue from prolonged desk work, leads to muscle imbalances, chronic pain, and even nerve issues. She outlines a structured exercise program to restore proper alignment and mobility. Pearce also highlights the increased protein needs of aging adults, showing how a moder...

Mar 29, 202516 minEp. 2925

2924: Is Soy Milk Healthier Than Dairy and Are Milk Alternatives Bad for Women

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 2924: Drinking soy milk is not only safe but may offer several health benefits, including reducing inflammation, lowering bad cholesterol, and even protecting against certain cancers. Concerns about soy affecting thyroid function or hormone levels are largely unfounded for most people, though those taking thyroid medication should avoid cons...

Mar 28, 202511 minEp. 2924

2923: 5 Ways to Simplify Your Sleep by Melani Schweder with No Sidebar on Restorative Rest

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 2923: Melani Schweder explores how simplifying bedtime routines and decluttering your sleep environment can lead to deeper, more restorative rest. By creating a calming pre-bedtime ritual and disconnecting from digital distractions, you can improve sleep quality and overall well-being. A minimalist approach to sleep fosters relaxation, balan...

Mar 27, 202511 minEp. 2923

2922: Being Fit Without Letting Food and Exercise Control You by Keith Lai 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 2922: Keith Lai explores how true fitness isn’t about obsessing over food and exercise but finding balance, self-compassion, and tuning into your body’s real needs. Instead of rigid diets and punishing workouts, lasting health comes from mindful choices, joyful movement, and a positive relationship with food. Learn how to break free from all...

Mar 26, 202510 minEp. 2922

2921: [Part 2] 11 Easy Steps to Max Nutrition by Summer Banks with Diet Spotlight on How to Boost Metabolism

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 2921: Maximizing nutrition doesn’t require drastic changes, small, intentional steps can have a big impact. Summer Banks outlines simple yet powerful ways to improve your diet, from prioritizing protein and whole grains to eliminating unhealthy fats and sugar. With practical tips backed by science, these strategies help boost metabolism, sus...

Mar 25, 202513 minEp. 2921

2920: [Part 1] 11 Easy Steps to Max Nutrition by Summer Banks with Diet Spotlight on Healthy Eating 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 2920: Summer Banks breaks down simple, research-backed steps to maximize nutrition without drastic diet changes. Swapping sugary cereals for protein-rich breakfasts, choosing whole grains over refined carbs, increasing protein intake, and incorporating healthy fats can enhance metabolism and overall well-being. Practical strategies like redu...

Mar 24, 202512 minEp. 2920

2919: Practicing Self-Care When Time is Hard to Find by Randi Kay with Becoming Minimalist

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 2919: When time feels scarce, self-care can seem like just another task on an endless to-do list. Randi Kay challenges this mindset by redefining self-care as a way of being rather than a checklist item. Through small, mindful adjustments, like changing how you start your day, improving posture, or swapping social media breaks for deep breat...

Mar 23, 202510 minEp. 2919

2918: The Revolution Has Begun by Paula Pant of Afford Anything on How to Have An Abundance Mindset

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 2918: Paula Pant challenges the common mindset of scarcity and limitations, advocating for financial freedom as the ultimate luxury. By shifting from "I can't afford it" to "How can I make this happen?" she demonstrates how prioritization, mindful spending, and an adventurous spirit can create the life you truly want. Financial independence ...

Mar 23, 202512 minEp. 2918

2917: How to Draw the Line and Enjoy Your Food by Mathews McGarry with DIY Active

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 2917: Personalized nutrition is the key to a sustainable, enjoyable diet. Matthews McGarry challenges the ever-changing food rules and encourages finding a balance that works for you, one that keeps you both happy and healthy. Instead of blindly following trends, focus on the foods that make you feel your best and fit seamlessly into your li...

Mar 22, 202511 minEp. 2917

2916: Probiotic Benefits of Kombucha, Yogurt, and Kimchi - Pros & Cons of Probiotics

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 2916: A thriving gut microbiome supports digestion and immunity, but can probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kimchi truly make a difference? While they contain beneficial bacteria, their effectiveness depends on factors like strain diversity, fermentation methods, and survival through digestion. Research suggests that consistent intake and ...

Mar 21, 202512 minEp. 2916

2915: Mindful Eating: How Eating A Sultana Can Improve Our Attention by Dr. Jenny Brockis on Nutrition 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 2915: Eating is often treated as a secondary task, but Dr. Jenny Brockis highlights how practicing mindfulness can transform our relationship with food. By slowing down and truly engaging our senses, whether with a sultana or a meal, we can improve attention, recognize satiety cues, and derive greater enjoyment from what we eat. Mindful eati...

Mar 20, 202510 minEp. 2915

2914: Why Being Good Enough Isn’t Good Enough Anymore AND Push Up Domination by Roger Lawson of Rog Law 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 2914: Being "good enough" is the fastest way to becoming replaceable. Roger Lawson challenges the idea of settling for mediocrity, urging you to push past average and aim for excellence in every aspect of life. Plus, he breaks down why push-ups deserve more respect in fitness, offering benefits like improved shoulder health, core stability, ...

Mar 19, 202512 minEp. 2914

2913: The One Truth You Must Know for Long Term Success by Mark Fisher on Habits for Healthy Living

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 2913: Perspective is the key to overcoming challenges and staying committed to long-term success. Mark Fisher highlights how shifting our view, whether through historical struggles, personal achievements, or simple progress tracking, can reignite motivation and keep us moving forward. By recognizing growth and resilience, even in small steps...

Mar 18, 202512 minEp. 2913

2912: Effective Training Does Not Require Complexity by Ross Enamait of Ross Training

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 2912: Simplicity is the key to effective training. Complex routines and fancy equipment are unnecessary, what matters most is consistency, effort, and a focus on fundamentals. Ross Enamait emphasizes that real progress comes from mastering the basics rather than chasing trends. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://rosstraini...

Mar 17, 202511 minEp. 2912

2911: How to Set Up A Calorie Deficit for Fat Loss (6 Steps) by Matt McLeod on How to Track Calories

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 2911: A calorie deficit is the key to fat loss, but most people struggle with tracking it accurately. Matt McLeod breaks down a simple six-step system to calculate your personal baseline, track your intake, and adjust accordingly for consistent results. By following this method using scales, food tracking apps, and weight trends, you'll gain...

Mar 16, 202511 minEp. 2911

2910: Whatever Becomes Normal Becomes Invisible by David Cain of Raptitude on How to Be Mindful

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 2910: Our daily routines shape our reality, yet we often fail to notice them. David Cain explores how anything we repeatedly experience, good or bad, fades into the background, influencing our lives without conscious awareness. By recognizing this tendency, we can intentionally design our habits and surroundings to create a more fulfilling a...

Mar 16, 20259 minEp. 2910

2909: Yardwork Workouts, Prisoner Workout and Other Non Traditional Exercises 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 2909: Swing an axe, haul heavy loads, or power through burpees, Leo Babauta redefines fitness with creative, functional workouts that ditch the gym. Whether it's yardwork that builds real-world strength, prisoner-style bodyweight routines, or unconventional tools like kettlebells and sandbags, these minimalist workouts prove you don’t need f...

Mar 15, 202512 minEp. 2909

2908: Are Probiotics Supplements Beneficial?

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 2908: Probiotics are often touted as a cure-all for digestion, immunity, mental health, and even weight loss, but do they really work? Dr. Neal Malik breaks down the latest research on probiotic supplements, highlighting which strains may be beneficial for specific health concerns like IBS, cholesterol, anxiety, and the common cold. Learn ho...

Mar 14, 202511 minEp. 2908

2907: Kickstart Your Journey of Being Fit and Healthy by Ellen Burgan of If It Brings You Joy

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 2907: Ellen Burgan explains that achieving lasting fitness and health isn’t just about knowing what to eat or how to exercise, it’s about mindset. A positive outlook can transform your habits, making healthy choices feel natural and enjoyable. By shifting your focus, telling the right story, and making the journey fun, you’ll create sustaina...

Mar 13, 202514 minEp. 2907

2906: This Is How to Do the Perfect Kettlebell Swing by Eric Leija on How to Improve Body Awareness

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 2906: The kettlebell swing may look simple, but executing it correctly requires precise technique and body awareness. Eric Leija breaks down the movement step by step, highlighting key form cues and common mistakes to avoid. Mastering this exercise will not only improve strength and conditioning but also unlock variations that can take your ...

Mar 12, 202512 minEp. 2906