Lifestyle

Explore the art of companion planting and learn how to create a vibrant and harmonious garden using natural methods. From nurturing soil health to enhancing flavors and controlling pests, pairing certain plants together can give you multiple benefits while cutting down on your labor and the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Discover how to get started, and enjoy five recipes that use companion plants, reuniting them on your plate.

Discover the mouthwatering world of umami, the so-called “fifth flavor.” Recognized in the West only for the last few decades, umami foods have long occupied a place of pride in traditional Asian cuisines. But there’s been concern about the use of the flavor enhancer MSG, a synthetic source of umami often associated with Chinese restaurants. So is there a difference between MSG and natural sources of umami? And can we enjoy umami flavor from plant-based sources?

Advanced glycation end-products, or AGEs, are compounds that live up to their acronym by speeding up the aging process when we consume them or synthesize them from certain foods cooked in certain ways. While AGEs are in almost all foods, some have much higher concentrations than others. And some foods and beverages can actually counteract the damage that AGEs can do to your tissues. So what are the most effective dietary strategies to slow down the aging health problems caused by AGEs?

In a recent study, researchers compared the amount of meat and other animal products in subjects’ diets with the environmental impact of their food choices. Find out why plant-based diets have such a smaller impact on land, water, and other sustainability measures. And what the global impact could be of choosing to eat less meat.

CBD is now widely available in a variety of products, especially in the wellness community. This article delves into its documented health benefits and looks at the pros and cons of various types as well as the different ways it can be consumed. Whether you're a newcomer to CBD or seeking to enhance your knowledge, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the insights you need to make informed decisions about integrating CBD into your health and wellness routine.

Carnivore diets have moved from the extreme fringe into increasing prominence in parts of the nutrition and wellness world. These zero-carb diets contradict pretty much every mainstream nutritional theory. Yet their proponents claim an impressive and comprehensive array of benefits, from weight loss to remission of autoimmune disease to improved psychological health. So what does science say about the pros and cons of living almost exclusively on meat?

Electrolytes are more than just ingredients in colorful sports drinks. They play a crucial role in hydration, and they’re also necessary for nerve function and muscle contractions. In this article, we explore the many ways electrolytes are essential for bodily functions and how to maintain a healthy electrolyte balance with your food and beverages.

Figs are far more than cookie fillings and strategically-placed leaves in Bible paintings. Discover the versatility of figs in enhancing various dishes, from desserts to savory meals. Learn how to choose, store, and make the most of the nutritious fig, a natural sweetener that can elevate your culinary game.

Rutin is a natural compound found in various fruits, vegetables, and grains that offers an impressive range of health benefits — from improving vascular health to reducing inflammation to managing type 2 diabetes to fighting cancer to supporting heart and brain health. But where can you find rutin in your diet? And given how beneficial it is, should you consider supplementation?

If you don’t have a solid plan to use up produce or know how to properly store it, your vibrant, nutritious, and flavorful fruits and veggies can quickly transform into mush. And wasted food is wasted time, money, and resources. It can also put a wrench in your meal plans. And it has a detrimental impact on the planet. This article and video provide tips on how to extend the shelf life of, and use up, fruits, veggies, and herbs in a variety of culinary applications to avoid waste and get the most out of your food.

Dark chocolate is beloved both as a delicious treat and a source of health-promoting antioxidants. But recently, a couple of comprehensive studies have shown that many of the most consumed dark chocolate bars contain potentially hazardous levels of cadmium and lead — toxic heavy metals that can cause serious and long-lasting health problems. How are they getting into chocolate? Are some bars safer than others? And is it possible to still enjoy the flavor and health benefits of dark chocolate without exposing ourselves to these toxins?

Strong muscles aren’t just for athletes, bodybuilders, and actors in superhero movies. Building and maintaining muscle mass as you age is critical for your overall health. Aside from the obvious benefit of being able to move your body, strong muscles can protect against metabolic disorders and even lower the risk of dementia. So what are the best ways to build muscle? What’s the role of exercise and food? And is it really possible to get and stay strong if you don’t eat animal products?