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Intentionally eating more protein has become one of the most popular diet changes in the past couple of years. In 2023, searches for the phrase "high protein" were the highest they had been in five years, with a 32% increase from 2022. Whether you're an omnivore or choose to eat a plant-based diet, eating enough protein can help you feel full and satisfied after eating, build muscle mass and strength, lose or manage your weight, and improve overall health. Research shows that high-protein diets are more than just a fad. A…

Setting your sights on losing belly fat is not just a commendable goal; it's a move toward a healthier, happier life. Especially when you consider that visceral fat—deep-seated abdominal fat—is tied to a whole host of health problems. According to Harvard Medical School, this troublesome type of fat is linked to metabolic troubles and escalates the risk of chronic diseases such as heart ailments and diabetes. For women, it can even heighten the chances of breast cancer. But here's the silver lining: making savvy drink…

Who said that weight loss has to be a dreary journey filled with bland snacks? Let's flip the script! An exciting diet brimming with delectable foods you adore can be your secret weapon in sticking to those weight loss goals longer than you'd think. It’s all about finding treats that nourish your body while tantalizing your taste buds. The magic lies in selecting snacks that are packed with nutrients—think fiber and protein galore—yet sit pleasantly low on calories. This delightful combination keeps those hunger pangs at…

If your goal is to lose weight around your stomach, it's important to know that there is no quick fix for targeting belly fat. Healthy, sustainable loss of belly fat requires a holistic approach that takes into account factors such as exercise, stress, alcohol consumption and overall lifestyle. When it comes to your diet specifically, avoiding or limiting certain foods that can contribute to belly fat is a key part of achieving your goals. Foods that contribute to belly fat are often high in added sugars and trans fats, such…

If you enjoy the occasional adult drink, you're not alone. According to a recent National Institutes of Health (NIH) surveytwo-thirds of American adults report drinking alcohol in the past year, and 52% say they have consumed alcohol in the past month. While a drink or two can be a fun way to unwind, regular alcohol consumption can take a toll on your body over time, affecting your heart, liver and pancreas, increasing your risk of chronic disease and affecting mental health. But what happens to your body when you stop…

High-protein breakfast foods often seem like a smart, nutritious choice to jumpstart our day. They're hailed as morning heroes, offering sustained energy and keeping you full until your next meal. From protein shakes to egg white omelets, there are a variety of options that make it easy to add more protein to your mornings. But despite all their benefits, some high-protein breakfast foods can have hidden pitfalls that may compromise our weight loss efforts. Many high-protein foods that seem healthy often hide ingredients…

Deciding how to prepare a turkey for Thanksgiving is a real mission. Cooking this traditional holiday poultry comes with a handful of potential difficulties, such as finding the right size turkey for your group, adding enough flavor, leaving enough time to thaw, and avoiding one of the most common turkey-related problems: making sure it makes t dry out. One way to avoid a dry turkey is to brine it, but exactly how do you properly brine a turkey? Brining involves immersing the turkey in a salt water solution, which not only…

Growing up in the Midwest, it should come as no surprise that cheese is one of my favorite foods. Americans share this love of cheese, consuming about 42 pounds per person per year, according to Statista. The US is one of them top cheese producing countries globallywith Wisconsin, California and Idaho leading US production. While many consider cheese a healthy dairy food, some advise against it due to its saturated fat and sodium content. With over 1,500 types of cheese, the nutritional content can vary greatly. Here's a…

You've probably heard the motto "Everything in moderation." This of course applies to all foods and (unfortunately) also cheese. As a dietitian, member of a family that owned a New York City cheese shop, and a wholehearted cheese lover, I understand that it can be hard to resist this beloved dairy food. However, since most cheeses are higher in saturated fat and sodium, they may not be the best choice for those dealing with high cholesterol. According to Centers for Disease Control and Preventionabout one in 10 Americans has…

Americans love their peanuts. Last year alone, a staggering 5.9 billion pounds were produced in the United States, according to Extras. Whether roasted or salted as a snack, spread on toast or added to recipes for extra flavor, peanuts are a beloved, versatile food. But are peanuts good for you? In addition to their deliciousness, Peanuts pack a nutritional punch. Rich in protein, healthy fats and various vitamins and minerals, they can support everything from heart health to muscle recovery. However, like all foods, peanuts…