Member-Only Articles
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Fitness Trackers May Fail Obese Individuals
Research shows that fitness trackers may not be accurate for obese individuals but the good news is that you may be burning more calories than you think.
How Dietary Protein May Impact the Gut Microbiome
We know that a high-fiber diet and fermented foods help keep your gut microbiome flourishing, but did you know that protein sources may also impact it? 1 New research from North Carolina University suggests that protein in an animal’s diet may affect the population as well as the function of the microbiome. This research may lead to a better comprehension of how to prevent and treat gastrointestinal conditions that affect the quality of life of millions of people worldwide. 2
The Juicy Truth About Juice Cleanses
I periodically have clients who ask (or have done) a “juice cleanse” as a fresh start to their wellness journey. Most have seen health claims of weight loss or improved gut health on TikTok or Instagram. While some boast that they feel better since it helps their bowels move, few have seen any long-lasting effects. In reality, this trend could be harmful.
Does high-fructose corn syrup or cane sugar make a difference in weight and other metabolic parameters?
Here is what the science says about high fructose corn syrup versus sugar for your soda.
Comparing Milk Options
This blog post offers a comprehensive guide to selecting the healthiest milk option from your grocery store, whether you prefer dairy or plant-based alternatives. It emphasizes that the "best" milk depends largely on individual dietary needs and health goals, such as lactose tolerance, allergy concerns, protein requirements, and fat intake.
The article delves into the nutritional profiles of various milk types, including different kinds of cow's milk (whole, skim, lactose-free, A2, grass-fed) and popular plant-based alternatives like soy, almond, oat, hemp, pea, and coconut milk. For each, it highlights key nutritional aspects such as calorie, protein, fat (especially saturated fat), carbohydrate, calcium, and vitamin D content.
A key takeaway is the importance of checking nutrition labels, particularly for added sugars, thickeners, and fortification with essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, which can vary significantly between brands and types of milk. For those avoiding dairy, fortified soy milk often comes closest to cow's milk in terms of protein and nutrient density. Ultimately, the blog encourages readers to make informed choices based on their personal health considerations and preferences.
Scientific Report of 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines Committee
Here is the status update on the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans - where we are, what is next. The report from the committee provides a comprehensive read about American’s health data/status and a summary of the nutrition research since the last round. At this time they seem to have really dug into a lot of details based on data. The joint recommendations that become the official guidelines will be made by the USDA and HHS and be out at the end of 2025.
Delicious Ways to Use Labneh
Labneh, a thick and tangy strained yogurt, is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways, both sweet and savory. Traditionally, it's served as a dip or spread, often drizzled with good quality olive oil and sprinkled with herbs like za'atar, mint, or a pinch of salt, accompanied by pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. It makes a fantastic base for sandwiches or toasts, topped with anything from tomatoes and cucumbers to avocado and honey. Beyond simple spreads, labneh can be incorporated into salads, used as a creamy topping for roasted vegetables or grilled meats, or even as a lighter alternative to cream cheese in certain recipes (though generally not recommended for baking). For a different texture, you can drain it longer to create firmer balls, which can then be preserved in olive oil with herbs for an impressive appetizer.
How to Make Labneh
Labneh, a thick and tangy strained yogurt, is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways, both sweet and savory. Traditionally, it's served as a dip or spread, often drizzled with good quality olive oil and sprinkled with herbs like za'atar, mint, or a pinch of salt, accompanied by pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables. It makes a fantastic base for sandwiches or toasts, topped with anything from tomatoes and cucumbers to avocado and honey. Beyond simple spreads, labneh can be incorporated into salads, used as a creamy topping for roasted vegetables or grilled meats, or even as a lighter alternative to cream cheese in certain recipes (though generally not recommended for baking). For a different texture, you can drain it longer to create firmer balls, which can then be preserved in olive oil with herbs for an impressive appetizer.
Keeping the Kitchen Cool This Summer: Appliances to the Rescue
When the summer heat rolls in, or you just prefer a cooler kitchen, rethinking your cooking methods can make a world of difference. The good news is, you don't have to sacrifice delicious meals. A range of modern kitchen appliances are excellent alternatives to firing up your traditional oven or stovetop, helping to keep your kitchen significantly cooler.
Finding Local Produce: Farm Stands
Here is a guide to finding and shopping at local farm stands this summer.
Microplastics 101
Here is all you need to know about using plastics for food prep safely.
Asian Noodle Glossary
Asian noodles are inexpensive and versatile. Here is a glossary of our top 10 you can add to your shopping list.
Parents and Caregivers: How to Avoid Type 2 Diabetes in Children
Parents and caregivers can help children avoid type 2 diabetes by instilling healthy habits that will last a lifetime. The key is to prevent overweight and obesity, which in turn decreases the risk of kids developing type 2 diabetes. Here are some ways to do this:
Plastics and Water Don’t Mix
No matter how hard we try, it’s not easy to avoid using plastic. Think of the number of times you may have used and reused a plastic water bottle. I almost always accept a bottle of water if offered, and don’t think twice about it.
High Blood Sugar at a Young Age May Raise Risk for Cardiovascular Complications
Adult-onset diabetes used to be an “adult” disease. However, as overweight and obesity are more common in adolescents, more are being diagnosed with this chronic condition at a younger age.
Healthier Summer Picnic Checklist
Are picnic plans in your summer? Maybe you are camping or having a 4th of July get together? If so, there are some fun and delicious tips for making it healthy.
One recent study found that sodium and fat are increasing in cereals marketed to children
One study shows that when manufacturers launch new cereals or they repackage them the nutrition facts don’t always go in the right direction from a nutrition standpoint. We mention this study, show their charts, and provide a comparison of some of the most popular cereals so that people can avoid ones with a lot of added sugar and sodium.
Online Cooking Demo Success Tips
Here are 4 steps you can take if you have to produce a cooking demo as a video.
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