In a recent podcast, Dr. Jen Gunter describes the problems with the phrase “boosting the immune system” (1). The PEN Team wondered if the podcast concepts might be useful to dietitians when clients ask about “immune-boosting” foods and supplements.

The American not-for-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG) has recently published an updated 2024 Dirty Dozen, which lists the fruit and vegetables most contaminated with pesticides. The EWG maintains that children are most likely to be susceptible to pesticide exposure and related health consequences, which has led to the American Academy of Pediatrics listing the Dirty Dozen as a resource for information on pesticide residues in produce.

Recently, there’s been more attention in the media on the sugar substitute allulose. The PEN Team thought a look into allulose’s characteristics was warranted to help guide practitioners when responding to client questions about this sugar substitute.

How accurate is ChatGPT in giving nutrition information and recommendations? Read to the end to fully find out!

Can prescribing ‘food as medicine’ have a positive effect on health outcomes, health care costs and health-related quality of life? A recent U.S. study that looked at the impact of implementing a fruit and vegetable prescription program for adults living with diabetes and food insecurity might provide some answers.

Ultra-processed foods: are they addictive? The message is a bit more complicated.

A U.S. report finds heavy metals in manufactured infant foods. Should we be concerned? Are heavy metals present in infant foods at unsafe levels? What should dietitians be advising parents to do? The PEN Team went looking for answers.