Copper is one of those quiet, essential nutrients that you don’t hear much about. Without it, though, you can’t survive. And both too little, and especially too much, can damage your heart, brain, bones, skin, and immune system. So how much do you really need? What are the best sources? How easy is it to get enough on a plant-based diet? And how can you avoid copper toxicity?

Our food system can be cruel — especially for the animals who are raised for meat, milk, and eggs. But in California’s Santa Clarita Valley, a farm animal sanctuary is looking to save both animals and people from trauma and abuse. In this touching interview with the founder of The Gentle Barn, you’ll learn about their inspiring work and discover a message of hope and heart for humanity.

The word “antioxidant” is thrown around a lot in the health and wellness space. But what does it really mean? Why are antioxidants good for you? Are there any you should avoid? And which foods and beverages pack the most beneficial antioxidant punch?

If making homemade vegetable broth is new to you, get ready for a few perks! From a culinary perspective, making your own vegetable broth is fun and flavorful, and it allows you to experiment with a variety of vegetables (and vegetable parts!). From an environmental standpoint, you avoid food waste and unnecessary packaging that comes with store-bought brands. And, from a cost-savings mindset, you’ll save money. Check out this article on how making homemade vegetable broth can be easy and versatile in a variety of plant-based recipes.

Selenium, once thought to be poisonous, is now recognized as an essential nutrient. It plays a key role in many aspects of your health, including metabolism, immunity, and protection against various diseases. But can you get too much of this nutrient? What are the best food sources of selenium, and can you get enough from a plant-based diet?

People who are die-hard meat lovers aren’t always open to going plant-based, even if it could benefit their health in some way. And oftentimes, if you try to convince them otherwise, that can actually fuel their reluctance and resistance. So what can you do to help the people in your life embrace healthier food options and gradually shift toward a more plant-based lifestyle?

Did you know that kitchen waste makes up a significant percentage of garbage worldwide, and that it contributes to climate chaos? In this article, you’ll discover how to easily collect food scraps in your kitchen to create compost and keep them out of the waste stream. Plus, find out the best countertop composting methods — and what to do with food scraps and compost even if you don’t have a garden or yard.

Imagine a food crop that defies drought, thrives in depleted soil, and is easy on the environment. It packs a powerful nutritional punch, and is gluten-free and rich in whole grain goodness. This supercrop not only tastes amazing but also cooks quickly, conserving energy. Introducing fonio, the most amazing cereal crop most people have never heard of. Discover why, despite its many positive qualities, fewer and fewer farmers want to grow it, and what you can do to help.

Halloween isn’t exactly known for its health-conscious treats. But you can have a happy and healthy Halloween by using whole, plant-based ingredients to create your own festive goodies. Indulge in the spirit of Halloween (without overindulging in added sugar) with these seven healthy Halloween recipes that are fun for all ages!

Ready to explore the amazing world of figs? Would you be surprised to discover that they aren’t actually fruits? Or that their pollination can involve a multigenerational family drama? From their unusual biology to their nutritional value and health-giving properties, get ready to dive into the hidden secrets of figs.