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Fran Benedict

Sodium has long been used as a primary flavor enhancer. We need sodium to support the body in maintaining its hydration levels and electrolyte balance, but we tend to rely on it more heavily than we n …

The noodle is far too versatile to be left to one variety or method of preparation. There are multiple types of noodles and even more ways that they can nourish your body and mind.You can stick to the …

Fall brings shorter days, longer nights, cooler weather, and a new menu of seasonal foods to help keep your body balanced and well. The fall harvest is full of antioxidant- and fiber-laden fare from B …

Halloween doesn’t have to be filled with scary, sugary treats. Whether your plans include a costume party or trick-or-treating, you and the kids can honor the traditions associated with All Hallows’ E …

It’s estimated that 48.1 million Americans lived in food-insecure households in 2014, according to Feeding America. And an estimated 100 billion pounds of food are thrown away annually in the United S …

Who said that decadent desserts can’t be good for you? Truth is, when desserts are made with ingredients that slow down the digestive process, offer nutritional benefits, and are enjoyed in moderation …

Ever been curious about ways to prepare food that are conducive to healthy eating? Well, it turns out, you can pair your nourishing foods of pleasure with cast iron cookware to increase health benefit …

To lay a solid foundation for good health, it is important for your body to maintain a balance between two basic types of chemical compounds—acids and alkalis. The measurement of these compounds in yo …

Spring and summer are the seasons of mouth-watering cherries and berries. These fresh, sweet-tasting snacks not only delight the palate; they come with a gift of taming chronic, systemic inflammation. …

Want to give your meals a gluten-free nutritional boost? Try edible seeds. As little nutritional powerhouses, seeds contain micronutrients, healthy fats, plant-based protein, and easy-to-digest fiber— …

With warm summer nights—the primetime season for soirées—quickly approaching, it’s exciting to think about all the upcoming barbecues, rendezvous, and outdoor gatherings for summer fun. Not to mention …

Whether you are an avid gardener, a rookie gardener, or are tinkering with a container garden on your patio—you have a number of opportunities to make a difference in your personal health and the heal …

Identifying the best sources of fish and other seafood can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for seafood sources that benefit not only your health, but also the environment, it adds another layer of …

Stress is abundant and seems to be on the rise. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 75 percent of doctor visits are due to stress.One type of stress to be aware of is oxidat …

In a highly connected, chaotic world, finding ways to become grounded and centered seems more important than ever. A non-stop hurried state increases your stress response, which can negatively affect …

“The core principles of mindful eating include being aware of the nourishment available through the process of food preparation and consumption, choosing enjoyable and nutritious foods, acknowledging …

You’ve heard about the importance of fiber in your diet because of its many benefits—it keeps you regular, creates feelings of satiety, supports the digestive system, and helps in lowering cholesterol …

What comes to your mind when you think of fat? Do you believe it’s good, bad, or are you indifferent? There are many varying viewpoints, and studies show about half of consumers are confused and don’t …

You've probably heard a lot about omega fats and their importance, but what about their unique makeup is so special? Well, it turns out, they are not only special, but they are also essential. Why? Be …

Your diet is supposed to include so many vitamins and minerals and anti-inflammatories and antioxidants and more! If you want to elevate your way of eating for higher energy and vibrant health, you'll …

Thanksgiving is a time when family and friends come together in celebration of the bigger, more important things in life—a connection to something more significant than the minutia of everyday life. I …

The holidays are a time to enjoy delicious mouth-watering meals and sweet delights. From seasonal pies, cookies, treats, and festive alcoholic drinks that abound in our homes and workplaces to delight …

What should you eat during a pandemic? This question seems to come up a lot these days, and rightly so. The focus on strengthening your immunity and steadying your mood is vital when thinking about wh …

Learning to forgive doesn't always come easy, and it's a patient and tender process. Many times, forgiveness can feel more like a weakness than an act of courage and strength.Let's explore how elevati …

It’s not just a myth. Being outside is really good for you. Here’s why spending time in nature can boost your well-being.If there’s one thing for sure, it’s that nature is good for us. It not only ser …

No es sólo un mito. Estar afuera es realmente bueno para ti. Por eso, pasar tiempo en la naturaleza puede aumentar tu bienestar.Si hay algo seguro, es que la naturaleza es buena para nosotros. No sólo …

Many people find themselves asking the question, “What matters most in life in a time of uncertainty?" A top answer is peace. It seems to be a rare asset these days, but it's a practice you can cultiv …

Using herbs to support your nervous system is a fantastic addition to managing mild stress and anxiety. Here are three herbal smoothie recipes for you to try.Are you interested in learning about a not …

From lattes and lasagnas to soups and salads, pumpkin is suitable for endless culinary creations. It’s also a nutritional powerhouse.Pumpkin’s deep orange color means it’s packed with powerful compoun …

Are you ready for a daily dose of vitamin G (gratitude) to help you hold on to the goodness and good wishes for the future? Let's dive in.As we look back on a crazy (understatement, perhaps?) year, it …

“Los principios básicos de la alimentación consciente incluyen ser consciente de los nutrientes disponibles a través del proceso de preparación y consumo de alimentos, elegir alimentos agradables y nu …