Kristen N. Smith, PhD, RDN, LD
Counting macros is a common phrase in the gym and among athletes. It’s more fine-tuned than simply counting calories among those who want to lose weight or gain muscle, but counting macros still means counting calories. The difference is a focus on the quality of foods eaten, rather than just … Read More
Kristen N. Smith, PhD, RDN, LD
Protein has been the buzzword in every food conversation for a few years now. As more and more people are trying on a plant-based eating pattern, the demand for vegan protein sources has never been higher. If the thought sounds less than exciting, or you’re looking to venture beyond tofu … Read More
Before you reach for a Monster energy drink, consider this: Are energy drinks bad for you? A growing number of studies are finding that products like Monster, Red Bull, and 5-Hour Energy can result in a variety of health dangers without offering any unique benefits. The extreme acidity, high caffeine, … Read More
Instead of reaching for an unhealthy energy drink or soda, try one of the following eight energy-boosting foods. 1. Green Tea Caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, cola, energy drinks) is a drug, a strong stimulant that actually generates a stress reaction in the body. Try going for three weeks without caffeine. … Read More
For reasons yet to be fully understood, people with fibromyalgia feel more pain than normal. Fibromyalgia sufferers’ brains show activation patterns in pain processing areas when only mild pressure or heat is applied.[1] Researchers believe that part of what contributes to fibromyalgia is an imbalance of the neurotransmitter serotonin. This … Read More
If you have a family member with osteoporosis symptoms, you’ve probably noticed what I’ve seen in my own family—a gradual decline of posture, or developing a hunchback spine with age. After spending some time with my 80-year-old mom recently, I went to give her a hug and a kiss goodbye … Read More
Heart attack, stroke, obesity, and high blood pressure can all be avoided or overcome with the right type of low cholesterol diet. The body naturally creates and regulates its own supply of cholesterol, and any that is taken in from the diet is excess. How do you lower cholesterol levels … Read More
Herbs and spices have long been used for culinary purposes as well as medicinal reasons. But one herb in particular ranks high above the rest when it comes to lowering cholesterol naturally: oregano. Oregano was first used by the ancient Greek physicians who prescribed it for a variety of ailments. In … Read More
Sarcopenia, the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, is a major problem as people age. It can lead to disability, osteoporosis, falls, hospital stays, and even death.[1] Wondering how to prevent sarcopenia? Taking a few natural steps now can improve muscle health and help maintain autonomy and well-being into … Read More
Some in the media have touted apple cider vinegar as a miracle cure-all. Wishful thinking, sadly. Miracle cure-alls are few and far between. Having said that, there is some research that supports apple cider vinegar's use in certain conditions. So let’s delve into the science—limited though it may be—of this … Read More
