DiscoverOptimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition
Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition

Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition

Author: Optimal Living Daily | Dr. Neal Malik

Subscribed: 42,425Played: 1,586,671
Share

Description

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...

2876 Episodes
Reverse
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 2875: Having trouble losing weight despite sticking to your diet? Matthew Benetti breaks down three ways dieting could be slowing your metabolism, leading to frustrating weight-loss plateaus. From metabolic adaptation to decreased movement and muscle loss, understanding these factors can help you make smarter choices and push past stagnation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://idealnutrition.com.au/3-ways-dieting-could-be-slowing-your-metabolism/ Quotes to ponder: "You feel frustrated that the scale is not changing." "Metabolic adaptation is a real phenomenon to be aware of." "In some dieters, their motivation to do ‘everyday-activities’ decreases." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2874: Matt McLeod shares how questioning long-held beliefs about fitness, success, self-love, and even food can lead to a more fulfilling life. By letting go of misleading ideas and embracing brutal honesty, we can remove unnecessary suffering and focus on what truly matters. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://mattmcleod.org/unlearning/ Quotes to ponder: “It’s clear how this played out, but the crucial lesson was this: to get closer to the Truth, I have to be willing to unlearn at any given moment.” “What got you here won’t get you where you want to go. It’s time for something different; it’s time to unlearn.” “True self-love is brutal honesty. You need to have the courage to recognize every dreadful thing about yourself, then actually work towards improving it.” Episode references: Goodfellas (1990): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099685/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2873: Christian Finn dismantles the "eat big to get big" myth, explaining that while adequate nutrition is necessary for muscle growth, there’s a limit to how much your body can actually use. Overeating beyond that point just leads to fat gain, not faster muscle development. Finding the right balance between training and diet is key to building muscle efficiently while minimizing fat accumulation. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://muscleevo.net/eat-big-to-get-big/ Quotes to ponder: "What do I mean by permissive? I mean that nutrition can permit the growth of muscle tissue but it is not the root cause. That is the function of training." "You can train to grow, but you cannot truly eat to grow." "The last thing you want is to have a large proportion of your weight gain come from fat, and then have to waste time and energy getting rid of it all." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2872: Bret Gornik and Jason Loebig break down the subtle yet powerful ways peer influence affects what we eat whether at work, with friends, or at home, and provide practical strategies to stay on track. From logging meals to planning ahead, cleaning out the pantry, and gaining support from loved ones, they share how to take control of your choices without feeling isolated or judged. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://livebetterco.org/food-social-pressure-why-support-matters-how-to-combat-it/ Quotes to ponder: "You put the fork (or glass) to your mouth every single time you take a bite (or drink). Nobody 'forces' you to do it." "Discipline creates freedom, plain and simple." "People are either helping or hurting, and it’s time to get everyone playing for the same team. YOUR TEAM." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2871: Emma Hogan shares insights from Dr. Jinger Gottschall on the importance of scheduled rest days and even short exercise holidays to prevent injury, boost motivation, and maintain overall well-being. While consistency is key, periods of reduced activity especially for seasoned exercisers can refresh both the body and mind, ensuring sustainable progress without burnout. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.lesmills.com/fit-planet/fitness/exercise-and-vacation/ Quotes to ponder: "A break from exercise prevents injury by allowing the working muscles to rebuild and prepare for future training." "Chances are, their body doesn’t need a fresh new training innovation - it may well need a rest!" "There’s a fine line between exercise that produces health benefits and exercise that can actually cause health detriments." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2870: Brian Tracy reveals how self-discipline is the key to overcoming financial problems and achieving financial independence. By practicing habits like budgeting, saving, and investing wisely, anyone can build long-term wealth and security. With a focus on personal responsibility and smart money management, this approach empowers individuals to take control of their financial future. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.briantracy.com/blog/financial-success/eliminate-financial-problems-through-self-discipline-financial-independence/ Quotes to ponder: "Self-discipline is the key to personal greatness. It is the magic quality that opens all doors for you and makes everything else possible." "The fact is that if you do not deliberately plan to be wealthy, the default mechanism in our society is that you will end up poor." "The more money you save and accumulate, the more freedom and options you will have throughout your life." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2869: Randi Kay challenges the common belief that deep pressure equals deep relief, explaining how excessive force can cause tension rather than relaxation. Whether in massage, stretching, or daily exertion, learning to listen to your body's limits can lead to greater healing and overall well-being. Plus, discover the therapeutic power of water from saunas to hydrotherapy and how simple rituals can improve your health and quality of life. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://www.naturallyrandikay.com/blog/nopainallgain & http://www.naturallyrandikay.com/blog/healyourselfwithwater Quotes to ponder: "No pain, all gain, when we don’t feel pain, that’s when the magic happens." "Remember, if you don’t listen to your body whisper, you will have to hear it scream." "Cold water is stimulating and causes the blood vessels to constrict. Hot water is calming and opens up the blood vessels. Switching between the two causes a flushing action that can be good for cleansing the muscles and other tissues." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2868: Dr. Neal Malik breaks down how the body's energy systems reset between workouts and explains why consistency and performance matter more than timing. Learn how to structure your routine for optimal results without burnout. Quotes to ponder: "It’s a really nice way to trick your body into tapping into its fat stores for energy." "If you enjoy doing cardio in the morning more so than in the afternoon, you’re gonna keep doing it." "When it comes to fat loss, consistency is key." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2867: Nia Shanks challenges the obsession with weight loss, encouraging actions that build strength, confidence, and long-term success. When you shift your focus to performance and consistency, physical changes become a natural side effect no more guilt, just progress. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://niashanks.com/screw-fat-loss/ Quotes to ponder: "I started feeling proud, strong, and energized, and guess what happened when I changed my mindset to being more and not less? I fit into smaller pants, my muffin top faded, my arms became gorgeously toned." "Obsession and intent don’t produce results, but action does." "Screw fat loss, get strong, be more, not less." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2866: Nia Shanks challenges the relentless pursuit of fat loss, exposing its damaging effects on body image, self-worth, and overall well-being. Instead of obsessing over shedding pounds, she encourages shifting focus to strength, confidence, and feeling good in your own skin. By rejecting diet culture and the punishment mindset, you can build a healthier relationship with food, exercise, and yourself. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://niashanks.com/screw-fat-loss/ Quotes to ponder: "Slimming down your waistline doesn’t have to be the dominant thought prodding your return to the gym each week." "You could choose to move your body and eat well because, oh, I don’t know, you’d like to feel good about yourself instead of hating your body and relentlessly berating yourself." "Obsessing over fat loss for an extended time is brutally effective for one thing, making you chronically dissatisfied with your body." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2865: Anthony Ongaro shares practical strategies like starting small, shifting your language to reinforce positive choices, setting achievable goals, and finding support through social connections. By focusing on long-term sustainability rather than quick fixes, these simple yet powerful habits can become a natural part of your lifestyle. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakthetwitch.com/keep-healthy-habits/ Quotes to ponder: "If it’s fast, it’s probably not going to last." "Instead of saying, 'Ugh, I have to go to the gym today,' realize it’s not true. It’s a choice you’re making, and one that not all people get to make." "Being kind to yourself during challenging times will help you move forward and remain more consistent." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2864: Drinking liquids with meals has been debated, but Alina Petre clarifies that science does not support claims that it harms digestion. Contrary to myths, beverages do not dilute stomach acid or hinder nutrient absorption. Instead, they can aid digestion, prevent constipation, and even help regulate appetite and calorie intake. Unless it causes discomfort or reflux, drinking water with meals is beneficial and supports overall hydration and well-being. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/drinking-with-meals Quotes to ponder: "Drinking liquids water, alcohol, or acidic drinks with meals is unlikely to harm your digestion." "Whether consumed during or before meals, liquids play several important roles in the digestion process." "Drinking water with meals may help regulate your appetite, prevent overeating, and promote weight loss." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2863: Rachel Trotta explains how to distinguish between real hunger, cravings, and emotional eating while emphasizing that occasional hunger isn’t harmful, it’s a natural sensation. By practicing mindful eating and tuning into physical cues, you can create a healthier, more intuitive relationship with food. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.racheltrotta.com/making-the-changes-that-matter/the-hunger-scale-recognizing-hunger-and-fullness/ Quotes to ponder: "The easiest way to use a hunger scale is to give yourself a spectrum from 1-10, ‘1’ being ravenous, and ‘10’ being uncomfortably stuffed." "Cravings and thirst can often masquerade as hunger. Having several large glasses of water between breakfast and lunch can be enough to eliminate the need for a morning snack." "Feeling your stomach rumble a little is not an unhealthy or undesirable experience. It’s simply slightly uncomfortable, and you should attend to it." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2862: Josie Michelle Davis shares five simple yet effective practices to regain balance, from changing self-talk and being mindful of media consumption to seeking help, practicing gratitude, and focusing on overall well-being. These practical steps can make a meaningful difference in navigating life’s inevitable ups and downs. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://josiemichelledavis.com/blog/2019/03/12/2019-3-7-5-mindful-practices-for-pulling-yourself-out-of-a-rut/ Quotes to ponder: "Take a good look at how you’re talking to yourself and make a conscious effort to stop and correct yourself when you feel you’re going down a negative self-talk track." "I’ve found being mindful of what I’m taking in during times I’m feeling in a funk can make such an impact on how long I feel stuck." "Taking time to think about and focus on the good things instead of wallowing permanently on the bad can really help pull you out of a bad spot." Episode references: Daring Greatly: https://www.amazon.com/Daring-Greatly-Courage-Vulnerable-Transforms/dp/1592408419 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2861: Jessi Kneeland explores how obsessive body checking serves as a coping mechanism, distracting from deeper emotional struggles. By stepping away from the scale, Zuri began confronting long-ignored feelings, ultimately reclaiming control over her life beyond numbers. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jessikneeland.com/post/scale-obsessed Quotes to ponder: "You are not crazy or abnormal." "In short, once we stopped talking about Zuri’s weight, we started talking about her life." "And until you identify and directly face whatever that thing is, you will always find yourself struggling with the feeling that something outside of you (such as the scale, or other people’s opinions of you) is controlling your life." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2860: A listener asks whether supplements can help with fat loss or bloating, and Dr. Neal Malik breaks down the science behind popular weight-loss supplements like green tea extract, capsaicin, and ketones revealing why they often don’t work as advertised. He also shares practical, research-backed strategies for sustainable fat loss and managing bloating, including diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments. Quotes to ponder: "There is no safe supplement that I know of that will directly reduce body fat." "The real secret is combining aerobic activity like walking, jogging, swimming, or bicycling with resistance training." "Adequate sleep helps control hunger hormones, and managing stress prevents cortisol from increasing appetite and fat storage." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2859: Steve Kamb challenges the mindset of entitlement, emphasizing that real progress whether in fitness, business, or personal growth requires dedication, consistency, and resilience. Instead of waiting for rewards, embrace the struggle, put in the work, and take ownership of your journey. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nerdfitness.com/blog/earn-it/ Quotes to ponder: "You don’t deserve success just because you want it you have to earn it through effort, sacrifice, and persistence." "No shortcuts. No handouts. Just hard work, patience, and a refusal to quit." "Nobody is coming to hand you your dream life on a silver platter. You have to fight for it." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2858: Susan Kolon shares practical strategies for maintaining wellness routines even during stressful times, emphasizing the power of small, realistic changes. By setting specific goals, tracking progress, and identifying meaningful rewards, you can regain control and sustain healthy habits in any environment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://kolonperformancestrategies.com/2020/04/27/today-were-tackling-health-habits-during-tough-times/ Quotes to ponder: "I WILL eat a side salad three times a week at lunchtime for two weeks." "One healthy choice you can make to get a little control back in a seemingly uncontrollable time." "Every habit has a reward, so make sure you note yours, it will be a good motivator and reminder on days when it gets hard and you ask yourself - why am I doing this again?" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2857: Mark Fisher explains why running can be hard on the joints, ineffective for many, and often leads to injury if done improperly. Instead, he advocates for weight training and metabolic resistance workouts as safer, more efficient fat-loss strategies, while still acknowledging that running has its place if you genuinely enjoy it and do it correctly. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://markfisherfitness.com/running-for-fat-loss-mostly-sucks/ Quotes to ponder: "If you hate running and you’re doing it for fat loss - you’re blowing it." "In the fitness industry, we have a saying: ‘You can’t run to get fit, you need to get fit to run.’" "The goal is to be healthy and hot, not busted and in the physical therapist’s office." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 2856: Ben Greenfield shares lessons from his own Ironman experiences, revealing how a strategic approach prevents burnout and leads to a stronger finish. By training, working, and living with balance and foresight, we can cross life's finish line with energy, joy, and unforgettable memories rather than exhaustion and regret. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/article/lifestyle-articles/life-is-an-ironman/ Quotes to ponder: "You tried to push through the race relying upon fitness alone, didn't pace accordingly and burnt all your matches far too early in the race." "Think ahead. Plan. Pace. Care for your body. But also for your brain and your spirit. Manage." "Then, when the time comes around when most folks quietly slip into a nursing home you'll be steamrolling happily along with plenty of gas in the tank and plenty of adventures left to live." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
loading
Comments (17)

sweet dee is azor ahai

some decent advice tainted by cringy language. writer needs to grow up.

Jan 1st
Reply (2)

victoria lisa

💚CLICK HERE Full HD>720p>1080p>4K💚WATCH>ᗪOᗯᑎᒪOᗩᗪ>LINK> 👉https://co.fastmovies.org

Feb 4th
Reply

sweet dee is azor ahai

good advice - people forget you can't stretch cold muscles!

Jan 14th
Reply

Magalí Bernard

I really needed to hear this. Thanks!

Oct 18th
Reply

Aleesha

❤️

May 8th
Reply

Samsung USB Drivers

Howdy sir, you have a really nice blog layout “  https://www.samsungusbdriverss.com/

Jan 20th
Reply

Adam Rothstein

Dr. Neil delivers again. Keeping things simple really does keep your mind at peace.

Jan 17th
Reply

Linda Soman

Good news. By limiting calories and consuming HCG drops https://purehcgdietdrops.reviews, you can direct your body to reduce fat retention while accelerating your own weight loss regimen. By combining HCG drops with a reduced calorie diet, people found they lost more weight than any other competing diet.

Aug 13th
Reply

Ruba Ali Al-Hassani

Did you seriously bleep out "vaginal" canal?

Jun 4th
Reply

Discernment Queen

Thank you

Apr 2nd
Reply

Unknown user

Best podcast ever I listen..

Aug 28th
Reply (1)

Nelly Ardito

optimal health

Jan 16th
Reply

Kit Tan

No ads today????? wow!!!!

Jan 5th
Reply

Jason Gordon

vml h. .nn.

Aug 10th
Reply