In 2025, nutrition information may be available at the click of a few keyboard letters or a click or two of a mouse. The real question is whether such information is credible, especially when an alternate source of information may offer an opinion totally contradictory. Through their “Fresh Focus Podcast,” dietitians at the Marion, Illinois VA Medical Center offer a safe place for veterans and their families to hear the same advice they would likely hear from dietitians they can access in their own clinic or VA Medical Center.  

The dietitians share evidence-based material, taking on today’s hot nutrition topics, encouraging veterans, their families, and caregivers to stay connected with a dietitian. Series 1 contains six episodes based on what is termed “the healthy plate”. The team is working on additional content on pregnancy and lactation nutrition, diabetes meal planning, nutrition-led cardiac rehabilitation, caregiver support, intuitive eating, and gardening.

Episodes last an average of just 14 minutes. Close to a hundred have been produced during 16 different seasons and over several years. Specific titles include “Diversify Your Plate,” “Personalize Your Plate for Weight Loss,” and “Meal Planning and Cooking for One.”

Click the button below for additional information or to access all available episodes. While the Fresh Focus Podcast is produced by VA dieticians, the Department of Veterans Affairs does not endorse or officially sanction any entities that may be discussed in any episode, nor any media, products, or services they may provide.