Diet and nutrition Archive

There are a number of steps to take when starting an anti-inflammation diet, such as the Mediterranean diet. The steps boil down to some dos and don’ts. For example, don’t eat processed foods such as microwaveable dinners, hot dogs, white bread, dehydrated soups, baked goods, sugary cereals, processed meats, biscuits, and sauces. But do eat a diet of whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (beans, lentils), fish, poultry, nuts, seeds, a little bit of low-fat dairy, olive oil, spices, and herbs.

Intermittent fasting-a diet that focuses on when rather than what a person eats-may be a good way to lose weight and improve cardiovascular health. One version, time-restricted feeding, involves eating only during a certain time window (usually eight hours) over a single day; another approach limits a person to just 400 to 600 calories daily for several days over the course of a week. The diet may reduce risk factors linked to heart disease, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, unhealthy blood lipid levels, and inflammation.

Gallstones can trigger painful attacks and concern about surgery. See how calorie control and low fat eating might ease symptoms and delay the need for surgery.

Dairy-related diarrhea, constipation, and ongoing gut discomfort may point to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, or another condition.

A busy schedule can make it challenging to adhere to heart-healthy habits, but there are steps you can take that don't require much time and can fit easily into almost anyone's life.

Virtual cardiac rehabilitation offers heart-related education and supervised exercise classes that people can access at home using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This growing trend may help make cardiac rehab more convenient and accessible.

A Harvard study of over 159,000 people found that following any of six healthy diets-especially the DASH diet-was linked to significantly better cognitive function in later life, with the strongest benefits seen in those who were following a healthy diet in middle age.

A 2026 review of six studies found that people with diabetes or obesity taking GLP-1 medications were prone to developing a number of nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamin D, iron, and B vitamins.

A plant-forward, varied diet can help people manage gout. Other helpful steps are to lose weight if needed, stay hydrated, avoid overeating and excessive alcohol, and take medications as prescribed. Small, sustainable changes can mean fewer flares and better quality of life.