Food

2025 was a year of reckoning and of rising. While climate extremes raged and food politics grew more polarized, millions of people made quiet, powerful choices that added up to a revolution. The American Medical Association endorsed plant-based eating to fight cancer. California phased out ultra-processed foods from school meals. Texas required warning labels on 44 harmful additives. And landmark research confirmed what many have long known: What we eat can help heal our bodies — and the planet we call home. Yes, the year brought serious challenges. But it also brought measurable, meaningful progress.

Strong smell. Bland taste. Uncool reputation. Cabbage doesn’t exactly scream “superstar” — but that might be about to change. From liver detox to gut health, cancer protection to cholesterol support, cabbage has some serious health benefits hiding beneath those leafy layers. And with a few kitchen tricks, it can actually taste great. Here’s how to give this often overlooked veggie the comeback it deserves.

Most of us know oats best in the form of oatmeal. But this isn’t the only way to consume these nutrient-packed whole grains. What are the health benefits of eating oats, and are there downsides to consider? And what are some other delicious and creative ways to get oats into your diet?

You probably start your day with a drink. Maybe it’s coffee, tea, juice, or just a glass of water. But what you sip first thing in the morning can do a lot more than hydrate. The right morning beverage can lift your mood, boost your energy, support your focus, and even help you feel better all day long. In this article, you’ll explore a range of healthy breakfast drinks — with tips and recipes to help you find (or upgrade) your morning ritual.

Holiday side dishes can be comforting, nostalgic, and packed with flavor. But they don’t have to also be packed with sugar, dairy, and processed ingredients. With a few smart swaps, you can keep the tradition and the deliciousness, while upgrading your health (and the planet’s). These five plant-based holiday sides are so satisfying, they just might outshine the main course — and you’ll be glad to have leftovers.

Air fryers are the hottest kitchen appliance since, well, Instant Pots. They promise to give you the taste and crunch of fried foods with little to no oil, and their prices have been coming down for years. But are they healthy? Are there any downsides to using them? Are they convenient to use? And if you have limited kitchen space and finances, is an air fryer worth it?

Nuts and seeds, consumed in moderation, can be among the healthiest foods around. And one of the ways we love our nuts and seeds is in the form of spreads and butters. But store-bought versions can be costly, and sometimes come with not-so-great ingredients. So how hard is it to make our own healthy nut and seed butters at home?

You eat well — but is your body truly reaping the benefits? How your food is grown, prepared, and combined can dramatically affect how many nutrients you actually absorb. In this article, you’ll discover science-backed strategies to boost the nutritional impact of your meals and help your body make the most of every bite.

Oxalates are compounds present in a wide variety of plant foods. Some health influencers tell us that they can cause kidney stones — and that they prevent your body from absorbing essential nutrients. But how warranted are those claims? Here’s what you need to know about oxalates, and whether to include foods that contain them in your diet.

Can everyday herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon help you live a healthier and longer life? The answer turns out to be a resounding “Yes!” But which ones offer the most benefits, and how can you start taking advantage of them without going to chef school? In this article, you’ll meet 11 flavorful anti-inflammatory allies, and come away with practical tips for incorporating them into meals and snacks.

Discover why the humble tomato is the world’s favorite fruit-vegetable and how to make the most of it, from garden-fresh heirlooms to pantry staples. Take a tomato trip around the world. Discover how to choose, store, and ripen tomatoes for peak flavor, and pick up some tips on ethical sourcing. And get a bunch of creative recipe ideas to enjoy fresh and processed tomatoes so that you can enjoy them any time of year.

Does eating a plant-based diet protect you from high cholesterol? Are there other factors besides diet that influence your numbers? Do genetics play a role? What about lifestyle? Here’s the research, some practical food swaps, and three delicious cholesterol-friendly recipes to empower you to do right by your heart.