From aging to genetics, we’re exploring the balance between nutrition and metabolism in this four-part series.On this episode, Chuck Gaidica is joined by Registered Dietitian for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Shanthi Appelö. Together, they explore how the nutritional value of food plays a bigger role than just calorie count.In this episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast, we explore:* How nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other beneficial nutrients, beyond just calories.* How consuming nutrient-dense foods can support overall health, immune function, and disease prevention, beyond just weight management.* How it's still possible to overeat even nutrient-dense foods, so calorie awareness is still important.* Examples of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods.Calories aren’t the full story, but timing our nutrients could be the next big piece of the puzzle. Tune in for our final episode, where we’ll break down nutrient timing and if it can optimize our long-term health.