Diet and nutrition Archive

Trillions of cicadas are expected to emerge in the US by the end of June, especially in the Midwest. In many parts of the world insects are considered a low-cost source of calories and protein, but some people still won't want to eat them - and some people shouldn't.

Super-agers are individuals known to maintain peak mental prowess well into their 90s and avoid dementia and Alzheimer's disease. While genetics play a big part in super-agers' cognitive health, adopting healthy lifestyle habits also contributes, and other people might be able to improve their brain health in the same way. These habits include exercising regularly, following a plant-based diet, being social, adopting mentally challenging activities, and getting adequate sleep.

Substances women eat, drink, or use can support or detract from vaginal health. The vagina's microbiome includes trillions of healthy bacteria that inhibit harmful bacteria. Certain conditions, such as an infection called bacterial vaginosis, indicate a harmful shift in the vaginal microbiome. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains benefit the vagina by tamping down inflammation. Other vagina-friendly foods include yogurt and soy. Staying well hydrated helps ward off dryness. Smoking or douching, however, can harm vaginal health.

Coffee and other caffeine sources can interact with many common drugs, changing the way they're absorbed, distributed through the body, processed, and excreted. Coffee (even decaf) makes stomach contents more acidic, accounting for some drug interactions, but caffeine is mostly the cause. Medications vulnerable to coffee or caffeine's effects include those for cold or allergy, depression, high blood pressure, asthma, osteoporosis, anemia, Alzheimer's disease, thyroid problems, and insomnia. Drinking coffee and taking medications at separate times is advised.

People who are at high risk for cardiovascular disease can benefit from driving down "bad" low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels as low as possible to help reduce their risk for heart attacks and strokes. Guidelines recommend that people at high risk aim for LDL levels below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The general population should strive for levels below 100 mg/dL. Taking statins and adopting healthier lifestyle habits like following a plant-based diet and increasing exercise can help manage LDL levels.

A 2024 research review suggests that consuming a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant foods and healthy fats, may reduce depression symptoms in people with depression.