StarTalk Radio Busting Nutrition Myths with Jessica Knurick
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Apr 17, 2026 
Jessica Knurick, PhD, nutrition scientist who debunks popular food myths. She tackles seed oil scares and explains polyunsaturated fats. Talks about protein trends and who actually needs more. Covers ultra-processed foods, dietary guideline shifts, industry influence, and how misinformation spreads online. Practical, evidence-based eating advice is highlighted.
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Protein Hype Is Largely A Fad With Targeted Needs
- Most Americans already get adequate protein; the recent protein hype is largely fad-driven.
- Specific groups need more protein: older adults, people recovering from injury, and some under-informed vegetarians.
Eat More Protein Only If You Train Hard
- If you do resistance training, increase protein to support muscle repair; otherwise excess protein adds calories not muscle.
- Dr. Knurick notes active lifters benefit from higher protein, but ordinary daily activity usually does not require extra.
Food Visuals Matter Because They Teach Behavior
- Dietary guidelines produce visuals (pyramid, MyPlate) to simplify recommendations, but graphics can mislead if poorly designed.
- Dr. Knurick explains visuals shifted over decades and MyPlate was easier to teach than confusing pyramids.