Wake Up and Read the Labels!

Can a chip company actually make a difference in your health—and in the world? Sarah Tanus, founder of Tatemada, thinks so. In this episode, she shares how she built a clean-label snack brand rooted in tradition, purpose, and real ingredients. From nixtamalization to avoiding inflammatory oils, Sarah explains how her chips and salsas deliver bold flavor without compromise—and why consumers should care about what goes into their favorite snacks.

Key Takeaways:

• Tatemada chips are oven-baked, never fried in seed or inflammatory oils
• Made from whole nixtamalized corn, not processed corn flour or fillers
• No preservatives or artificial ingredients — just real, recognizable food
• The nixtamalization process enhances flavor, nutrition, and digestion
• Salsas contain 5 ingredients or less, like tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and pink salt
• Only use non-GMO citric acid when needed to maintain safe pH
• Woman-owned and B Corp certified, with a mission to support rural women farmers
• Available at Sprouts, Whole Foods (Southwest), select Costco locations, and more

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Can your blender really transform your health? Best-selling author and blending expert Tess Masters—aka The Blender Girl—joins Jen to share how one powerful kitchen tool can unlock better digestion, tastier veggies, and hormone balance. From ditching dairy to smoothie wow-factors and menopause transformations, Tess unpacks the small daily habits that create big results.

With over 30,000 women supported through her programs, Tess offers practical strategies for joyful eating, strategic nutrition, and gut-first wellness—no extremes required.

Key Takeaways:

• Why plastic vs. glass blenders matter more than you think
• Smoothie “wow factor” tips: lemon zest, red bell pepper, and even red onion
• Extreme dieting vs. strategic eating—why under-eating may be sabotaging your health
• The #1 key to thriving in menopause: gut health
• How to make veggies craveable using bold sauces and blender-made dressings
• Mindful living defined: “Paying attention without judgment”
• One clean swap to make this week: cut back on non-nutritive sweeteners and sugar-free products

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Show Notes: 

Anxiety isn’t always just a mental issue—it can start in your gut. In this eye-opening episode, Jen sits down with Dr. Nicole Cain, a naturopathic doctor and clinical psychologist, to explore how food, trauma, and environmental toxins play a hidden role in anxiety, panic attacks, and brain fog. Dr. Cain breaks down the science behind the gut-brain connection, explains why your symptoms are signals—not problems—and shares simple ways to reclaim your health, naturally.

Key Takeaways:

• Your anxiety isn’t the problem—it’s your body’s way of communicating what needs healing.
• The gut microbiome plays a major role in anxiety, and it’s inherited through generations.
• Every bite you eat changes your gut bacteria, for better or worse.
• Hidden ingredients like dyes, additives, and artificial sweeteners can fuel anxiety.
• Childhood gut health shapes adult brain function—what your kids eat matters.
• Overstimulation from phones and screens can mimic the symptoms of a panic attack
• Practical tip: Sleep with your phone out of the room and use a real alarm clock.
• The 3-Minute Hack: Dr. Cain’s simple method for rewiring anxiety through body awareness.
• Clean eating = clear thinking—use tools like Read the Labels and EWG to spot toxic ingredients.

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Think all tea is healthy? Think again. In this episode, Jen Smiley sits down with Stephanie Wakefield from Your Tea to expose the truth behind trendy detox teas and why traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) blends are different. From digestive support to fertility breakthroughs, Stephanie shares how Your Tea’s herbal formulas address root causes—without the gimmicks, sugar, or harsh laxatives. If you’ve ever sipped a “detox tea” and wondered why you still feel bloated or burnt out, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Most detox teas use senna leaf, a harsh laxative that can harm your body when overused
• Your Tea blends use traditional Chinese herbs, formulated to target root causes, not just symptoms
• “Phlegm and damp” in Chinese medicine refers to digestive buildup—often mistaken for weight gain
• Peppermint tea can worsen bloating, especially for those with cold digestion
• Fennel and licorice are better choices for digestive support and hormonal harmony
• Chinese herbs can work on an energetic level, improving sleep, emotions, and digestion over time
• Low energy has multiple causes—Your Tea offers different blends for adrenal fatigue vs. gut fatigue
• Your Tea has helped many women conceive naturally, thanks to its fertility-focused blends
• Common store-bought teas often contain chemical additives, synthetic flavors, and pesticide residue
• Your Tea’s herbs are grown in the Fujian province, meeting strict international safety standards

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Show Notes: 

Most detox programs promise results in 3, 7, or maybe 21 days—but Troy Casey has been detoxing for 35 years. In this episode, Jen sits down with the Certified Health Nut himself to explore what it really takes to maintain long-term wellness in a toxic world. From dry fasting and parasite cleanses to rebuilding gut health and boosting testosterone naturally, Troy shares his unconventional (and highly effective) protocols to raise your body’s vibration, avoid chronic illness, and reclaim your health at any age.

Key Takeaways:

• Detox isn’t a quick fix—it’s a lifestyle built around seasons, intuition, and personal testing
• Fasting means more than food—it can be digital, dry, juice-based, or herbal
• Parasites are everywhere—but you can stop being a host by strengthening your body
• Most people’s guts are inflamed—due to processed food, antibiotics, and toxic exposures
• Clean food = clean skin, clean hormones, and real energy
• Walking, tai chi, and sleep are more powerful than high-intensity workouts for many
• Natural testosterone boosters include going to bed by 10pm, detoxing, and eliminating seed oils
• Recovery and nervous system regulation are essential, especially as we age
• The food supply is broken—but there are still ways to eat clean and support ethical brands
• You can’t outsource healing—your mirror and your mindset are your best health trackers

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Show Notes: 

You’re doing “everything right”—eating clean, working out, and taking supplements—but you still feel tired, inflamed, or bloated. Sound familiar? In this episode, Jen is joined by Erin Holt, a functional nutritionist and founder of the Functional Nutrition Academy. Erin shares the hidden reasons your body might be fighting back, even when your habits look healthy on paper. From trauma and stress to restrictive eating and the nervous system, this conversation reveals what wellness routines often leave out—and how to truly heal from the inside out.

Key Takeaways:

• Clean eating isn’t always enough—stress and trauma matter too
• Your nervous system directly impacts digestion, hormones, and inflammation
• Over-supplementing or under-eating can keep you stuck in “healing mode”
• Functional labs are helpful, but context and coaching are key
• Erin’s Functional Nutrition Academy teaches practitioners a full-body approach to healing
• Gut health, hormone balance, and metabolism are all connected through nervous system function
• You’re not broken—your body’s just asking for something different

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Most of us think our homes are safe—but what if your bed, your humidifier, or even your receipts are making you sick? In this episode, Jen talks with Dr. Tania Elliott, a dual board-certified physician in internal medicine and allergy & immunology, about the surprising ways everyday habits and home environments may be harming your health. From dust mites and mold to hormone-disrupting toxins, Dr. Tania shares powerful insights and practical fixes—without the fear-mongering.

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t make your bed right away—it traps dust mites and moisture
• Avoid going to bed with wet hair—it can lead to mold and dandruff
• Your humidifier may be making you sick—clean it or switch to a dehumidifier
• Freezer trick for stuffed animals—kills dust mites and bacteria
• Allergy meds vs. immunotherapy—why the long-term fix may be worth it
• Healthcare isn’t health-focused—Dr. Tania breaks down the broken system
• Top labs to request—Ferritin, B12, and thyroid for women’s health
• Her new Healthy Home Guide walks through room-by-room changes with science-backed advice

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

Everyone’s asking: What should I stop eating in 2025? Jen breaks it all down with five sneaky "health" foods that are secretly spiking your inflammation, disrupting your gut, and keeping you tired and bloated. From sparkling water to yogurt and bread, she reveals what to ditch—and what to swap in instead—for more energy and less confusion at the grocery store.

Key Takeaways:

• LaCroix and other flavored sparkling waters may contain PFAS—“forever chemicals” that mess with hormones, thyroid, and immune health.
• Nut Pods and other “plant-based” creamers use synthetic emulsifiers like dipotassium phosphate, which inflame your gut and drive cravings.
• Veggie sticks are mostly seed oils and additives, not vegetables. Swap them for clean brands like Lesser Evil, Siete, or Tatamata.
• Chobani and most conventional yogurts contain milk from GMO-fed cows and pasteurized probiotics. Try coconut-based yogurts like Kalina or Coconut Cult instead.
• Dave’s Killer Bread is ultra-processed and loaded with omega-6s and gluten. Jen recommends Pasha Bread (with code “WAKEUP” for 20% off) as a clean, fermented alternative.

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Jen’s Links:

After nearly 15 years as an executive and talent scout for four NBA franchises, Jared Ralsky looked like he had it all. But behind the scenes, he was struggling with anxiety, inflammation, and feeling “skinny-fat.” In this episode, Jared joins Jen Smiley to share how clean eating, ancestral health, and learning to read labels transformed his life. From boardrooms to infrared saunas, Jared’s story proves that peak performance starts with what’s on your plate—and what you believe about your body.

Key Takeaways:

• Jared worked in the NBA for nearly 15 years before becoming a certified health coach
• Ancestral health helped him reduce anxiety and body fat while increasing energy
• Clean eating isn’t about giving things up—it’s about choosing better ingredients
• You can’t solve health with a pill—environment and food are foundational
• Even “healthy” foods and labels can be misleading without the right knowledge

You’ve cleaned up your diet, ditched the seed oils, and started reading labels—but you still wake up feeling puffy, tired, and inflamed. What gives? In this solo episode, Jen Smiley breaks down one of the most overlooked tools for detox and inflammation: infrared saunas. She explains how they work (spoiler: it's not like the steam room at the gym), why they’re a game-changer for your lymphatic system, and how to get started without breaking the bank. Plus, Jen shares her personal routine and the brand she trusts in her own home.

Key Takeaways:

• Infrared saunas reduce inflammation by penetrating deeper than traditional heat or steam
• You sweat out toxins—not just water (think: plastics, heavy metals, and more)
• Infrared light boosts mitochondrial function for more natural energy
• Puffiness and bloating could be signs your lymphatic system needs support
• You don’t need to spend $10K—start with local sessions or a sauna blanket
• Jen’s go-to sauna brand? Sunlighten, with a discount code linked below
• Hydrate, rinse, repeat: how to make the most of your sweat session

At just 21, Kyle Fitzgerald was sitting in a hospital getting infusions for Crohn’s disease—until one day, he decided to take his health into his own hands. In this episode, Kyle joins Jen to share how he went from chronic inflammation and medications to reading labels, prioritizing real food, and building a thriving online community through Clean Kitchen Nutrition. They talk gut health, what most people misunderstand about fatigue, and simple swaps that make a big difference.

Key Takeaways:

• Chronic inflammation often starts with poor food quality, not genetics
• Most Americans are overfed and undernourished—calories ≠ nutrients
• Clean eating reversed Kyle’s Crohn’s symptoms without medication
• Plant-based diets aren’t always gut-friendly—bio-individuality matters
• Ground beef, fruit, and cooked veggies became Kyle’s healing staples
• You can feel full and energized by changing what you eat, not just how much
• Don’t overlook non-toxic living—start with water, detergent, and skincare
• Grocery tip: Shop the outer aisles first for whole, real foods
• For better mornings and sleep, get sunlight first thing and consider grounding

You wake up, reach for your coffee, and rely on that first sip to power your day—but what if your daily brew is secretly working against you? In this solo episode, Jen breaks down what’s really in your coffee: from mold and pesticides to plastic and toxins leaching from pods. She also reveals exactly what to look for in a clean cup—from roasting practices to third-party testing—and names nine coffee brands that go the extra mile. If you’re relying on sugar-laden creamers to mask the bitter taste or feeling jittery and bloated after your morning cup, this episode will open your eyes to what’s really brewing.

Key Takeaways:

• Coffee should just be coffee — no mold, pesticides, plastic, or toxins
• That bitter taste? It’s likely low-quality beans or contaminated coffee
• Pod users beware — hot water over plastic can leach chemicals into your drink
• Organic ≠ mold-free — look for brands that test for mycotoxins and toxins
• Common symptoms of tainted coffee include bloating, fatigue, IBS, and jitters
• Creamers can be the real problem too — loaded with gums, fillers, and oils
• Clean coffee is a great first step — but full results come from clean eating overall

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Jen’s Links:

Ever feel like everything you’ve been told about healthy eating doesn’t actually make you feel healthy? You’re not alone. In this episode, Jen is joined by Brian Sanders, creator of the upcoming Food Lies docu-series and host of the Peak Human podcast. They dive deep into the shocking truth behind the food pyramid, how marketing has hijacked our nutrition labels, and why conventional health advice is making us sicker.

From beef and grains to calories and cholesterol, Brian unpacks decades of misinformation—backed by science and common sense. If you’ve ever questioned your food labels, your cravings, or even your doctor’s advice, this episode will open your eyes.

Key Takeaways:

Trying to eat more protein but still feeling bloated or inflamed? The problem might not be how much you're eating—but what kind. In this solo episode, Jen Smiley breaks down the hidden dangers of conventional grocery store meat, why it’s often loaded with hormones and antibiotics, and what it’s doing to your body. She dives into the nutritional, environmental, and ethical differences between conventional and pasture-raised organic meat, plus how to decode misleading meat labels at the store.

From grain-fed cows to glyphosate-laced feed, you’ll learn why you are what your cow eats—and how choosing better protein can help build muscle, reduce cravings, and improve your health.

Key Takeaways:

• Every cell in your body needs protein—but not all meat supports that repair
• Conventional meat comes from animals raised in confined, unsanitary conditions with grain-based diets (mostly corn + soy)
• You are what your cow eats: If they’re fed GMOs and junk, it ends up in you
• Grass-fed ≠ grass-finished — always check the brand’s website to confirm
• Organic ≠ Pasture-Raised — organic feed still matters, but access to pasture is better
• Pasture-raised meat is higher in omega-3s, antioxidants, and flavor
• Conventional meat is cheaper, but the health cost is high (inflammation, cravings, hormone disruption)
• Best clean meat brands:
• Force of Nature
• Holy Cow
• Clean eating = fewer cravings, more energy, and better long-term health

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Jen’s Links:

If you’ve been battling bloating, sugar cravings, or gut issues—and your doctor says everything looks “normal”—this episode is for you. Jen Smiley sits down with Dr. Daryl Gioffre, a leading gut microbiome and longevity expert known for his acid-kicking approach to nutrition. From the truth about acid reflux and hidden sugar to the long-term impact of antibiotics, Dr. Gioffre explains how most people are suffering from low stomach acid and leaky gut—and what you can do to start healing now.

He shares simple daily hacks, the five supplements everyone needs, and a powerful post-antibiotic protocol to repair your gut lining. You’ll also learn how to spot food sensitivities, reduce inflammation, and finally understand why the foods you think are healthy may be holding you back.

Ever wondered why you can eat bread in Europe without the bloating, breakouts, or fatigue—but suffer in the U.S.? In this solo episode, Jen Smiley breaks down the real differences between American and European bread, from gluten content to glyphosate exposure. She explains why traditional fermentation, fewer additives, and better ingredients make all the difference—and shares her favorite clean bread brands and grain-free swaps you can find in the freezer aisle or order online.

If you’ve been told to ditch bread altogether, don’t worry—Jen has your back with clean swaps that support your digestion and energy, not work against them.

Key Takeaways:

• American bread is highly processed and often contains additives, enzymes, and glyphosate.
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• European breads use traditional fermentation and heirloom grains, making them easier to digest.
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• Additives like dough conditioners and high-fructose corn syrup disrupt digestion.
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• Refined flours = blood sugar spikes, cravings, and inflammation.
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• Real bread goes in the freezer, not the shelf—watch out for shelf-stable traps.
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• Look for clean ingredients like sprouted buckwheat, almond flour, flaxseed, and coconut flour.
• 
  

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Jen’s Links:

Show Notes: 

Could inflammation be the reason you're bloated, fatigued, or struggling with your cycle? Naturopathic doctor Dr. Erin Ellis joins Jen to explain the real signs of chronic inflammation, what most lab results don’t tell you, and how hormone imbalances are often overlooked in conventional care. Learn how to support your health naturally—starting with awareness, better choices, and listening to your body.

Key Takeaways:

• Inflammation is natural, but chronic inflammation is not—and it often goes undetected.
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• Common signs include brain fog, bloating, puffiness, joint pain, and fatigue.
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• Stress, poor sleep, toxins, and processed food are key inflammation drivers.
• 
  
• Hormone imbalances may present as mood swings, hair loss, irregular periods, and weight gain.
• 
  
• Most doctors only test what’s “normal”—not optimal. Don’t stop at normal.
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• Fun isn’t frivolous—it’s essential for hormone balance and nervous system health.
• 
  
• Reduce your toxic burden by becoming ingredient-aware and making clean swaps.
• 
  
• Learn more from Dr. Ellis through her free Menstrual Cycle Nutrition Guide and 7 Hormones Affecting Weight Loss video.

🔗 Dr. Erin Ellis Resources & Links:

Is your “healthy” breakfast secretly the reason you feel tired, bloated, or foggy by 10am? In this episode, Jen Smiley breaks down the hidden truth about oatmeal—from its effects on your blood sugar and gut health to the anti-nutrients and pesticides lurking inside. Plus, she shares easy clean swaps to satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your health.

 ✅ Oatmeal spikes blood sugar like ice cream—causing energy crashes and cravings.
✅ It contains phytic acid, an anti-nutrient that blocks mineral absorption.
✅ Most oat-based products are contaminated with glyphosate, a toxic pesticide.
✅ “Non-GMO oats” is a marketing myth—there’s no such thing as GMO oats.
✅ Bloating? Fatigue? Leaky gut? Oats may be the silent culprit.
✅ Clean swaps: Use nut milk pulp (like almond or macadamia) or try Wella grain-free oatmeal for the same texture without the toxins.
✅ Make your own anti-inflammatory nut milk at home—Jen shares how!
✅ Use the Read the Labels app to scan foods and spot hidden toxins.

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.


 

Are you tired all the time, gaining weight unexpectedly, or struggling with brain fog? You might have Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism—and not even know it! Over 20 million Americans suffer from thyroid disease, but nearly 60% go undiagnosed due to incomplete testing.

In this episode, Jen Smiley sits down with Inna Topiler, board-certified clinical nutritionist and host of Thyroid Mystery Solved, to reveal why conventional thyroid testing misses the real problem, the 5 thyroid types, and how to get your energy, metabolism, and health back on track!

 ✅ Standard thyroid tests are incomplete—you need a full panel to uncover issues.
✅ 95% of hypothyroidism cases are actually Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune disease destroying the thyroid.
✅ Your thyroid affects EVERYTHING—energy, weight, digestion, brain function, and even mood.
✅ The 4 biggest triggers of thyroid issues: Food, infections, toxins, and stress.
✅ You CAN feel better! Supporting the immune system and understanding your thyroid type is the key to healing.

If you start your day with tea, you need to hear this! Many popular tea brands contain pesticides, heavy metals, and harmful additives—even the ones labeled “healthy.” In this episode, Jen Smiley uncovers the truth about toxic teas, how misleading labels trick consumers, and the clean tea brands you should be drinking instead. Learn how to choose the best teas, why loose-leaf beats bagged, and how to brew the perfect cup.

 ✅ Popular teas like Lipton, Twinnings & Celestial contain pesticides—avoid them!
✅ Natural flavors & citric acid in tea? 🚨 Red flag! That means lower-quality ingredients.
✅ Loose-leaf tea is best—no plastic tea bags or hidden chemicals.
✅ Organic & tested for heavy metals—these are the teas you should be drinking.
✅ Top clean tea brands: Kauai Pharmacy, Your Tea, Zealong Tea

Show Notes: 
Type 1 diabetes is often misunderstood, but for Sarah Bristow, it became the catalyst for a healthier, more intentional life. Diagnosed in 2014, Sarah transformed her approach to nutrition, exercise, and overall well-being—now empowering others through Thrive Coaching. In this episode, she shares her journey, the biggest myths about diabetes, and practical tips for managing blood sugar while still enjoying life.

• Type 1 diabetes is autoimmune, not caused by sugar intake or body weight.
• Blood sugar management is about more than just numbers—stress, sleep, and overall health play a role.
• Many common “health foods” can spike blood sugar more than expected—learn what to watch for.
• Tracking blood sugar patterns is helpful, but don’t let it consume your life.
• Food quality matters—choosing real, whole foods can help stabilize blood sugar.
• Sarah’s biggest advice for those with Type 1? Find support, educate yourself, and don’t live in fear!

🔗 Connect with Sarah:

Show Notes: 
Are you paying extra for foods labeled "non-GMO" without knowing what it actually means? In this episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, Jen Smiley exposes the seven real GMO crops and how food companies use misleading marketing to make their products seem healthier than they are. From non-GMO salt (which doesn’t even exist!) to deceptive claims on bread, juice, and cereal, Jen reveals the food industry’s tricks and how to truly avoid GMOs for better health.

Plus, learn why autoimmune diseases and inflammation are skyrocketing, and how GMOs may be playing a role. If you’re tired of being misled at the grocery store, this episode is a must-listen!

• There are only seven GMO crops: Corn, soybean, canola, sugar beets, alfalfa, cotton, and potatoes—plus some papaya, pink pineapple, and summer squash.
• Non-GMO labels are often misleading: There’s no such thing as non-GMO salt, wheat, oats, dairy, or oranges, but companies use this label to charge more.
• GMOs contribute to inflammation and autoimmune diseases: Many processed foods made from GMO corn, soy, and sugar beets can damage gut health and trigger immune responses.
• The government subsidizes unhealthy ingredients: Grains, seed oils, sugar, and dairy products are mass-produced because they’re cheap, not because they’re healthy.
• How to actually avoid GMOs: Buy organic, shop the perimeter of the store, and check ingredient lists—not just marketing claims.
• Use the Read the Labels app: Scan foods at the grocery store to instantly see if they contain sneaky inflammatory ingredients.

🎧 Tune in now and learn how to truly read the labels!

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.


 

Show Notes: 
If you’ve ever been told to "just eat less and move more" but still struggle with bloating, inflammation, or stubborn weight, this episode is for you. Jen sits down with Micaela Riley, a functional nutritionist and practitioner, to uncover the root causes of thyroid dysfunction, gut issues, and hormone imbalances. Micaela shares her personal journey overcoming PCOS, Hashimoto’s, and leaky gut—plus, she breaks down why standard nutrition advice often fails women.

We also dive into Ozempic, GLP-1s, and hormone replacement therapy, discussing who they actually help and how to approach weight loss and metabolic health the right way. If you’re ready to take control of your health and finally see real progress, don’t miss this episode!
 

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.
 

Key Takeaways:
 

• The difference between functional nutrition and conventional nutritionists
• Why gut health is the first place to start for thyroid and hormone issues
• The role of stress, inflammation, and environmental toxins in metabolic dysfunction
• How functional lab testing reveals hidden health problems doctors often miss
• The truth about Ozempic & GLP-1 medications—who benefits and how to use them safely
• Why hormone replacement therapy is a game-changer for perimenopause & menopause
• Practical steps to reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar, and improve thyroid function

In this episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, Jen Smiley exposes the hidden ingredients in popular yogurts that may be causing inflammation, bloating, and gut issues. She breaks down why “healthy” options like Danon Light & Fit, So Delicious, Chobani Zero Sugar, and Silk aren’t as clean as they seem—and what to look for instead. Learn how to spot artificial flavors, dead probiotics, and gut-disrupting additives, plus discover the best clean yogurt brands that actually support your health.

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.
 

Key Takeaways:

• Many popular yogurts contain artificial flavors, preservatives, and gut-disrupting additives.
• Non-fat dairy often comes from cows fed inflammatory diets, impacting the quality of the yogurt.
• Pasteurization after culturing kills beneficial probiotics, leaving you with “dead” yogurt.
• Stevia isn’t as natural as it seems—it undergoes a harsh chemical process that can cause bloating.
• Truly clean yogurts, like Kalina, Coconut Cult, and CocoJune (pure coconut), contain live probiotics and high-quality ingredients.
• Fat in yogurt isn’t the enemy—healthy fats help keep you full and satisfied.
• The food industry’s misleading labels make it difficult to identify clean options, but the Read the Labels app can help you scan and verify your yogurt choices.

In this episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, Jen Smiley sits down with Chef Jamie Simpson from The Chef’s Garden and Culinary Vegetable Institute in Ohio. Chef Jamie shares his journey from the kitchen to the farm, his passion for growing nutrient-dense vegetables, and the importance of eating with the seasons. Learn how the way your produce is grown affects its flavor, nutrition, and sustainability, plus how you can maximize your own kitchen’s potential by reducing food waste and embracing the entire plant.


 

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• Eating with the seasons leads to more nutrient-dense, flavorful food
  
   
• The industrial food system prioritizes shelf life over nutrition—here’s how to avoid it
  
   
• You can minimize food waste by using all parts of the plant
  
   
• Cooking methods impact the nutritional benefits of your food
  
   
• Regenerative farming replenishes the soil, creating healthier crops for the future

Where to Find Jamie: