We’ve all heard of the cholesterol, and most of us probably have a pretty negative connotation associated with it. After all, we generally only hear about it when it reaches levels that are problematic. The reality is, most of us don’t actually understand anything about cholesterol. Cholesterol is a vital lipid, or fat, that is...
In the quest for a heart-healthy diet, one common fruit stands out: grapes. Often overlooked, grapes have recently been heralded as a superfood capable of significantly lowering cholesterol. Research reveals that this fruit not only benefits cardiovascular health but also offers a host of other advantages, from reducing inflammation to improving gut health. Grapes and...
Pu-erh tea, a type of fermented tea originating from the Yunnan province in China, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. Known for its earthy flavor and unique aging process, Pu-erh tea is not only enjoyed for its taste but also for its medicinal properties. Let’s have a look...
Obesity is a serious health issue globally, with annual rates continuing to rise in both children and adults. In fact, from 1990 to 2022, the percentage of people between the ages of 5 and 19 living with obesity increased from 2% to 8% worldwide. [1] Therefore, it is no surprise that scientists are constantly looking...
Often dubbed the “good cholesterol” due to its cardiovascular benefits, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol has been linked to a surprising risk—dementia. Recent studies suggest that very high levels of HDL, far from being entirely beneficial, might increase the risk of developing cognitive decline in older adults.1 The Study on HDL and Dementia Risk A study...
As we embark on a new year, many of us take the opportunity to reorganize our kitchens, especially the array of cooking oils we keep. Amidst the clutter, it’s crucial to identify which oils truly support brain health and which might inadvertently elevate health risks. Recent studies have revealed that certain oils, often labeled as...
If you walk into any pharmacy, you are likely to be met with a seemingly endless choice of supplements. A multivitamin may seem like the only supplement you need, but there are actually several others that are highly beneficial. Take, for example, fish oil supplements. They are currently very popular, with 8 out of every...
For decades we were told to eat three meals per day: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Then different information started coming out about eating more often but smaller portions and other various “fad” diets. The most recent eating trend to pick up steam? Intermittent fasting. Many people are jumping on the intermittent fasting train, claiming that...
High cholesterol continues to be a health issue for many, with serious implications for heart health. Health experts consistently bring up the importance of making dietary adjustments and using medical interventions to manage levels effectively. While some foods can help lower cholesterol, others only make it worse. Fats are imperative in this equation, as Meghann...
Okra, also known as “lady’s fingers,” is a green flowering plant. Okra belongs to the same plant family as hibiscus and cotton. The term “okra” most commonly refers to the edible seedpods of the plant. Okra has long been favored as a food for the health-conscious. It contains potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C, folic acid, and calcium. It’s low in...
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell in your body that is required to maintain good health. When it is in the right amount, your body uses it to produce hormones and vitamin D while assisting digestion. However, too much cholesterol can pose a problem. At unhealthy levels, cholesterol can lead to...
