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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?

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?

Why are so many people talking about bone broth? Let’s explore why health enthusiasts seem to be jumping on the bandwagon, what the research says about some of the most prominent bone broth benefits and claims, and the potential downsides of participating in this popular food trend.

Eczema is a common skin disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, the causes and effective treatments for eczema remain elusive. So why do people develop the condition in the first place? What triggers symptoms? How can flares be prevented? And might a plant-based diet provide relief for eczema sufferers?

Juicing fruits and vegetables involves separating the stuff you consume — the juice — from everything else — the pulp. That can make it easy to get lots of plant-based nutrients into your body, but it also involves a lot of food waste and can keep you from getting enough fiber in your diet. So are there ways to reuse juicer pulp that can solve both problems?

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.

BPA is a chemical that’s used in plastics, food and drink containers, cans, pizza boxes, shopping receipts, baby bottles, and much more. Scientists and public health advocates have been sounding the alarm on BPA for years, pointing out that it may be linked to reproductive health problems, diabetes, asthma, obesity, and harming fetal neurodevelopment. But its health effects may be further reaching than expected, and BPA substitutes may not be any better. Discover the latest research on BPA and similar chemicals — and what you can do about limiting your exposure.

Organic fruits and vegetables cost more than conventional ones — sometimes a lot more. But if you want to avoid pesticide exposure, is it always necessary to choose organic? Or are some conventional fruits and veggies less contaminated? In this article, we go in depth into the Environmental Working Group’s US-based report on the 12 dirtiest and 15 “cleanest” items of produce, to help you make smart decisions to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful pesticides.

Acrylamide sure doesn’t sound like something edible. But nevertheless, the compound is in many of the most popular foods, including baked goods, fried and roasted potatoes, and even coffee. Some evidence suggests that acrylamide can trigger cancer growth — at least in rodents. But is there a cancer risk to humans? And should we try to completely eliminate acrylamide from our diets, or are there ways to cut back on exposure that reduce any potential health effects?

Learn the truth about inflammation, what an anti-inflammatory diet looks like, and seven foods that fight chronic inflammation in your body.

If you or anyone in your home loves coffee, then here’s some good news: It can bring joy and value even after all cups are empty. Coffee grounds can be reused in many different ways, including while gardening, baking, cleaning, and a few other surprising options. In this article, you’ll discover how to keep coffee grounds out of landfills while performing a bunch of useful functions around your home.

Industrialized society moves material on a one-way trip — we buy it new, replace it soon, and throw it “away” when we don’t want it anymore. On a finite planet groaning under the weight of all our waste, this way of living isn’t sustainable. One model seeking to replace it is called Zero Waste. And we don’t have to wait for the whole world to embrace it — we can do our part to take care of the earth by implementing Zero Waste strategies in our homes and kitchens.