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Dietary patterns Archive

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Smarter food shopping

Nutrition does not have to be expensive. Some of the healthiest foods at grocery stores also are some of the least costly. By following some basic shopping strategies and knowing how to properly prepare and store produce, people can keep their refrigerator and pantry stocked with nutritious and inexpensive foods that support their health and their budget.

Less heart disease in people with a dairy-rich diet?

People who eat more dairy fat—which is plentiful in whole milk, yogurt, and cheese—may be less likely to develop heart disease than people who eat smaller amounts of dairy.

Harvard study: Healthy diet associated with lower COVID-19 risk and severity

A study published online Sept. 6, 2021, by the journal Gut suggests that people who eat the most fruits, vegetables, and legumes have a lower risk of getting COVID and its complications, compared with people who eat the least.

Anti-inflammatory food superstars for every season

Inflammation is part of the body's healing process, but chronic inflammation can contribute to a range of health issues. In every season, regularly eating a variety of anti-inflammatory foods can benefit your health.

Walnuts: A worthy addition to your daily diet?

Research has found that people who eat nuts regularly are less likely to have heart disease. While all varieties of nuts are full of important nutrients, a two-year randomized trial shows a daily dose of walnuts lowered levels of harmful blood lipids that affect cardiovascular health -- and without adding extra pounds.

Healthy eating through the holidays

At this time of year, with parties and food gifts it's extremely easy to give in to temptation and overindulge. If you have been trying to make healthier eating choices (or want to start), here are some suggestions for how to get through the holiday season and still enjoy yourself.

What are postbiotics?

Postbiotics are created by digestion. Like probiotics and prebiotics, they may contribute to gut health and overall health.

Nationwide sugar reductions projected to save health and lives

A study published Aug. 27, 2021, in Circulation suggests that reducing sugar from packaged foods and sweetened drinks would prevent about 2.5 million heart attacks, strokes, and cardiac arrests, and prevent half a million cardiovascular deaths.

Are these "healthier" choices really better for you?

Foods promoted as healthier options to traditional favorites are sometimes nutritional winners and sometimes not. Chicken sausage does have advantages over traditional pork sausage, but processed veggie chips are often no better than potato chips. People shouldn’t assume that a product is nutritionally superior until they read the label. Things to compare include calories, saturated fat, added sugars, sodium, and fiber.

Keep ultra-processed foods off the menu

A study published online July 14, 2021, by the BMJ suggests that eating ultra-processed foods is associated with substantially increased risks of developing inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

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