Papaya is a tropical fruit with significant culinary versatility and nutritional benefits — and considerable global popularity. But is it good for you? And if so, which varieties are best for your health and the environment? And are there people who should avoid papayas entirely? Let’s take a deep dive into one of the world’s favorite tropical fruits.

Potassium is an essential nutrient for health, participating in every biological process that relies on electrical signals, including heartbeat, muscle firing, and nervous system activity. But many people in the modern world are potassium deficient, which has contributed to an epidemic of high blood pressure and other chronic diseases. So why is this? Is potassium hard to obtain from food or necessary to supplement? Get the facts on this critical mineral and electrolyte.

Lysine is an essential amino acid that’s crucial for optimal health and well-being. It possesses antiviral properties and also contributes to muscle building, bone health, skin vitality, and brain function. But there’s some debate about whether plant-based eaters get enough of this vital nutrient. How much lysine do you need? And is it possible to meet this requirement on a plant-based diet?

Papayas are less well-known than some other tropical fruits. But they deserve just as much attention as, say, pineapples or mangoes. This article provides tips on how to select and use papayas, including how to pick a ripe one, how to cut and store them, and a variety of recipe ideas to incorporate papayas into your diet.

Goitrogens are compounds found in certain foods that can interfere with iodine absorption and affect thyroid function. Some health influencers argue that foods containing goitrogens are harmful and should be avoided. However, many of the foods that are highest in goitrogens also offer important health benefits. So should you avoid goitrogens, or enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet? And are there ways to reduce goitrogen levels in foods?

Scientists created polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to make our lives easier. But in the process, they’ve created “forever chemicals” that are contaminating our soil, water, and bodies. Find out how scientists at Michigan State University are working on removing PFAS from our environment and food supply.

One strategy recommended for people struggling to control their weight has been portion control: intentionally eating less than they otherwise would. To help people eat less, government and nutritional experts have identified serving and portion sizes to aim for. But what’s the difference between a serving and a portion? How can you use these guidelines to eat enough but not too much? And what other strategies work best to prevent overeating?

Food insecurity is a problem that touches many communities, but some more than others. In this article, we explore how the LGBTQ+ community is disproportionately affected by food insecurity, the organizations that are leading the charge to support food access, and how you can help make a difference in fighting for healthy, ethical, and sustainable food for all.

Summer squash is a versatile and abundant vegetable. But sometimes, it can be difficult to know how to deal with the sheer volume that comes from the garden. Or even what to do with it when it’s available at the grocery store or farmers market. How do you select, store, and prepare summer squash for maximum nutrition and culinary value? And what are some creative ways to cook it and make the most of a summer harvest?

Limes are the other sour little citrus fruit: the green, less popular cousin of the bright and cheerful lemon. But limes pack a unique culinary and nutritional punch — both their fruit and, in some varieties, their leaves can fight diseases from cancer to heart disease to cognitive decline. So how can you buy and prepare limes to maximize both their health benefits and culinary goodness?