What are the best ways to eat less salt?

Most Americans eat more sodium than recommended. The Dietary Guidelines advise adults to limit sodium to less than 2,300 milligrams a day, about one teaspoon of salt. Too much sodium raises blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Where the salt comes from The salt shaker is not the main culprit. … Read more

What are the best ways to eat less processed food and more whole foods?

Almost everything we eat is processed in some way: frozen peas, canned tomatoes and plain yogurt are processed, and they are perfectly healthy. The concern is mainly with ultra-processed foods: industrial products made largely from refined ingredients and additives, designed to be convenient and hard to stop eating. Understanding the levels Researchers often use the … Read more

What are the best ways to eat more protein?

Protein helps build and repair muscle, keeps you full and supports many functions in the body. Most Americans eat enough protein overall, but many eat little at breakfast and a lot at dinner, and older adults and very active people may need more. How much do you need? The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults … Read more

What is plant-based meat made of, and is it healthy?

Plant-based burgers, sausages and nuggets are designed to look, cook and taste like meat. They have grown from niche products to supermarket staples, and they raise two common questions: what is in them, and are they actually healthier? What they are made of Most plant-based meats share the same building blocks: How they compare nutritionally … Read more

What are seed oils, and are they bad for you?

“Seed oils” has become a buzzword on social media, often accompanied by claims that they are toxic. The reality is more nuanced. Here is what seed oils are and what the evidence says. What counts as a seed oil Seed oils are vegetable oils extracted from the seeds of plants. The ones most often discussed … Read more

What can you eat after wisdom teeth removal?

After a wisdom tooth extraction, what you eat matters for two reasons: avoiding pain and protecting the blood clot that forms in the socket. If that clot is dislodged, you can develop a painful dry socket. Always follow the specific instructions from your oral surgeon or dentist; the list below covers the usual advice. The … Read more

What can you eat with braces?

You can eat a wide range of foods with braces. The goal is to avoid the few that break brackets, bend wires or get stuck, and to make the first sore days after fitting or tightening easier. Your orthodontist’s instructions come first; the American Association of Orthodontists also has patient guidance. Foods that are generally … Read more