Healthy Eating Archive

The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans are a mixed bag. While their advice to choose whole foods, avoid highly processed foods, and limit added sugars is sound, their promotion of animal-based foods like meat and full-fat dairy products is less supported by rigorous scientific research.

Stress eating involves using food as a coping mechanism when life is difficult. Persistently high levels of cortisol can increase appetite, and past experiences can lead people to associate eating with stressful situations. The foods people crave may depend on their form of turmoil.

Dietary changes can make a big difference for people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Foods to limit or avoid include chocolate, onions, and tomato sauce. Adjusting eating habits-by eating smaller portions, for example-might also help people avoid heartburn and other symptoms.

Cutting back on ultra-processed foods that have little nutritional value can help protect your health, but you don't have to make everything from scratch either. Seek out less-processed versions of your favorite foods at your supermarket to turn into healthy meals with minimal effort.

Nutritional yeast is a savory condiment that's often heavily fortified with vitamins. Because high doses may cause side effects, interact with some medications, or cause certain health problems, it's best used sparingly as a flavoring, not as a supplement.

Experts define a low-carb snack as one with 5 grams of carbohydrates or less per serving. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends snacks that are fresh, balanced, and packed with nutrients like protein and fiber.

Muscle loss is common after middle age. To counter muscle loss, it's essential to strength train regularly and consume lots of protein. Whole foods are the best sources of protein, but protein supplements might also be used.

The new year is a good time to focus on cognitive fitness. Exercise, healthy eating, mental challenges, good sleep, controlling stress, and social engagement support neuroplasticity and help keep thinking and memory sharp.

Malaise is a feeling of weakness, fatigue, or being generally unwell. Addressing underlying causes and making healthy lifestyle changes - such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep - can help people with malaise feel better.