Health

Watermelons are among the largest and heaviest fruits available at most grocery stores, but is lugging them home worth the effort? Are they nutritious, or just an unwieldy delivery system for water and sugar? Here’s what to know about the nutrition benefits of watermelon — plus the pros and cons of eating it.

Lectins are a type of protein found in some plants. There are thousands of kinds of lectins, and some of them are now blamed for digestive problems, obesity, brain fog, and a slew of autoimmune diseases. But many of the plants that contain lectins could be among the healthiest foods in the modern diet. So what’s the truth? Should you eat them or not?

Cherries are a versatile fruit beloved for their sweet-and-sour flavors, vibrant red and black hues, and ability to enhance both desserts and savory dishes. But beyond their delicious taste, are cherries good for you? How can you incorporate them into your diet? And what potential drawbacks should you be aware of before indulging? Discover the surprising health benefits of cherries, as well as practical tips for choosing, storing, and using them.

Despite all that we've learned about the power of food from tens of thousands of medical studies, rates of chronic disease continue to rise. And the medical establishment has continued to apply brilliant science to the treatment of disease, while practically ignoring the central role of nutrition in promoting illness or preventing it. But the times, they are a-changin'. Find out how medicine is evolving — fast — and what you can do to accelerate the transformation.

The B vitamins are commonly grouped as “B-complex,” but each plays a unique role in your health, metabolism, and overall bodily function. Here’s why the B vitamins are so important, which ones may deserve extra attention, and where you can find them on a plant-based diet.

Soy is celebrated as a superfood by some who claim it can fight heart disease, hormone-related cancers, and osteoporosis while providing a potent plant-based protein source. But others tell us that it’s a central driver of breast cancer, thyroid problems, dementia, and environmental problems like deforestation. So what’s the truth? Is soy good for you? And what are the health and environmental consequences of consuming it? Here’s what you need to know about soy.

Does your blood type matter only in case you need to give or receive a blood transfusion? The still-popular Blood Type Diet begs to differ. In fact, its founder and advocates argue that your blood type should determine how you eat, exercise, and deal with stress. But what does the research say? Let’s look at the science, debunk some persistent myths, and explore what the diet gets right and where it falls short.

The word “detox” is used in many ways. But what is a detox? Do detox regimens work? Can detoxifying foods help you cleanse your body without relying on powders, pills, and pricey products?

Dates, a fruit with a history spanning over 6,000 years, are more than just one of the world's sweetest natural sweeteners. Are dates healthy, or just a sugary indulgence? This in-depth article explores the surprising health benefits of this “fruit of kings,” including the surprising truth about their glycemic index. Find out about the most popular varieties and the best ways to incorporate them into your diet. And stay until the end for three amazing date-based recipes (including one of the most popular we’ve ever published!).

Fiber is probably the world’s most underestimated nutrient. Despite the profound role it plays in just about every aspect of our health, most people aren’t getting nearly enough. But why is fiber good for you? Is it one thing, or are there different kinds you should know about? How much is enough? And what foods can provide that fiber? Here’s the scoop on fiber, along with a sample meal plan to easily reach your daily fiber goal.

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are quickly moving beyond hummus to become a versatile, global kitchen staple. Is that a good thing? Are chickpeas good for you? Is there anything special about them compared to other legumes? And what are the best ways to prepare them to maximize nutrient absorption? Read on to discover their health benefits and the best (and most delicious) ways to add them to your diet.

Peanut butter is a popular, affordable, and versatile food. It's a beloved pantry staple in many places, but behind the simple, creamy taste lies a complex nutritional profile. Is peanut butter healthy? Or is it a high-fat food that’s at risk of being contaminated with aflatoxins? Find out what you need to know about this classic spread.