Inflammation

Olive oil gets a lot of great press as a health food. And olives are popular staples of Mediterranean cuisine, which is considered by many to be the world’s healthiest way of eating. But olives are very salty, and olive oil is basically 100% fat. So what’s the truth about this savory fruit? How can we separate fact from myth?

Turnips may not be cool like cucumbers or sexy like cauliflower, but they’re humble and hardworking root vegetables that have sustained human civilizations for millennia. And the more we know about turnips, the more impressive their nutritional and health benefits become. So why are turnips so good for us, and how can we prepare them in ways that make us look forward to seeing them on our plates?

If a food or beverage makes your tongue feel like all the moisture has been sucked out of it, it could be because it’s rich in tannins. These compounds, produced by plants to protect themselves, may also protect us from inflammation, microbes, and free radical damage. But some people see tannins as antinutrients, compromising our ability to absorb minerals and protein. So what’s the truth about these common and strong-tasting phytochemicals?

Hundreds of millions of people suffer from discomfort and disruption during their menstrual cycle because of excess prostaglandins and inflammation. But uncomfortable period symptoms don’t have to be a given. A number of nutrient-rich whole foods are proven to shorten period length, reduce pain, and decrease flow. Learn more about which foods can help reduce inflammation and contribute to feeling better during menstruation.

Hazelnuts are a delicious food with a lot of health benefits. Unfortunately, the vast majority of the world’s hazelnuts are grown in ways that degrade the environment, harm farm workers, and end up in unhealthy processed foods. Is there a way to enjoy these fabulous nuts without contributing to harm to ourselves or others?

Oregano is one of the most well-known herbs in the world, thanks to the popularity of Italian cuisine. Now scientists are discovering that this humble herb that flavors pizza sauce is one of the most powerful aids to immunity in our pharmacopeia (and our kitchens). What are the health benefits of oregano, and how can you add this amazing (and delicious!) herb to your diet?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints, often leading to fatigue, pain, stiffness, and impaired physical functioning. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or immune targeting agents like steroids are commonly used for treatment. But it turns out that lifestyle and nutritional changes can help a lot, too. In this article, you’ll discover how adopting a healthy diet and practicing good gut health can help alleviate some of the hallmark symptoms of RA.

Lycopene is a nutrient that has only recently received the attention it deserves. One of the most potent anti-inflammatory antioxidants, lycopene appears to protect against a staggering array of chronic conditions, including cancer, heart disease, male infertility, and cognitive decline. But there are precious few dietary sources of this wonderful nutrient, and there are questions about its bioavailability. How much lycopene do you need, and what are the best sources?

Peppers, from sweet to wickedly hot, became staples of cuisines around the world almost as soon as they arrived from their original homes in South America. Both mild bell peppers and 5-alarm chili peppers provide significant health benefits. In this article, we’ll look at what those benefits are, whether the hottest of peppers are safe, and how to prepare peppers to please the palates of the people you love.

If you believe the hype, CoQ10 is a wonder supplement that can do everything from helping athletes recover faster to giving tired people more energy to slowing down the aging process. But how much science is there to back up these claims? What does CoQ10 do in the body, and what happens when it’s in short supply? And can we get it from food, or is supplementation the way to go?

Okra isn’t one of the most popular vegetables around, thanks largely to some bad press about its slimy interior texture. But the bright green pods offer amazing flavor, powerful nutritional health benefits, and opportunities for culinary adventure and creativity. Let’s explore the past and future of this unique plant food.

Most plants manufacture compounds to protect themselves from predators. Some of these chemicals act by limiting the plant eater’s ability to fully absorb the rest of the plant’s nutrients. Called “antinutrients,” they’re the subject of heated controversy. Should we avoid foods that contain antinutrients, or do those foods offer more and greater health benefits than potential downsides?