Diet and nutrition Archive

Naturally fermented foods have been getting the attention of health experts because they contain beneficial probiotics that may help strengthen your gut biome — the bacteria and microorganisms in your digestive tract.

Nitrates are found in both leafy greens and processed meats. But it’s unclear how much these molecules matter compared with other components of those foods, as dietary nitrate levels have no proven link to heart disease risk.

The MIND diet combines Mediterranean and DASH diet principles with an added emphasis on brain-healthy foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and fish. Linked in some studies with slower cognitive decline and lower dementia risk, it’s a flexible eating pattern with benefits at any age.

“Anti-nutrients” like oxalates, lectins, and phytates are found in leafy greens, beans, and grains. They can slightly reduce absorption of some minerals, but aren’t reasons for most people to avoid these healthy foods. Food preparation and meal planning can help minimize such effects.

High uric acid doesn’t always mean daily treatment. Several factors, including gout symptoms and kidney health, can help guide the next step.

Past smoking, heavy drinking, and drug use can raise lasting questions about aging. Find out which factors shape future health and longevity.

A new heart rhythm diagnosis can be unsettling, even when other tests look normal. Find out what to discuss with your doctor next.

The DASH plan is one of the world’s leading heart-healthy diets. While it limits salt, sugar, saturated fat, and alcohol, it doesn’t have to be bland. With some flavor creativity and changes in shopping and meal planning, it can soon become second nature.

Having low vitamin B₁₂ and vitamin D may have several explanations, from diet and sun exposure to conditions that affect nutrient absorption.

Enlarged red blood cells on a routine blood test can have several explanations. Find out what your results may mean and when follow-up is needed.