Cats often nibble on plants, out of curiosity, boredom or because they like the texture of leaves. Choosing non-toxic plants lets you have greenery without the risk. The ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plants database is the best reference to check any plant. Cat-safe houseplants These are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA: Non-toxic … Read more
Sooner or later you will cook for someone who cannot or does not eat certain foods. Some restrictions are a matter of preference; others, like food allergies or celiac disease, can make someone seriously ill. The aim is a meal everyone can enjoy safely, without cooking five different dinners. Ask clear questions Ask guests in … Read more
Mindful eating means paying attention to what and how you eat, without judgment. It is not a diet and it has no forbidden foods. Its aim is to reconnect with hunger, fullness and taste, which many of us lose when eating in front of a screen or on the run. Notice hunger and fullness Before … Read more
Cooking for one has a reputation for being a hassle: recipes serve four, produce goes bad and eating the same dish four days in a row gets old. A few strategies make it easy and even enjoyable. Shop for one Cook once, eat differently Rather than four identical dinners, make a base and transform it: … Read more
Cooking for a family means feeding different ages, tastes and schedules every day. The goal is a routine that is sustainable for the cook, not perfect meals. Plan the week Spending 15 minutes on a weekly plan saves time and money. A simple structure helps: a pasta night, a soup night, a “tacos or wraps” … Read more
Cooking without a recipe is less about talent than about knowing a handful of techniques and templates. Once you understand why recipes work, you can improvise with what you have. Learn a few core techniques Most dishes are combinations of these. Use templates instead of recipes Remember a few ratios Balance flavor Most dishes taste … Read more
Cooking for 15 or 30 people is a logistics project as much as a cooking one. Choosing the right dishes and planning ahead make it relaxed instead of stressful. Plan the menu How much food? Rough guidelines for a buffet-style meal per adult: When offering several dishes, people eat less of each. Leftovers are better … Read more
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
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
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
