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Harvard study pegs the worst ultra-processed foods for your heart

A 2024 study of more than 200,000 adults, combined with findings from 19 other studies (for a total of 1.25 million people), tied eating ultra-processed foods-particularly sugary drinks and processed meats-to an increased risk for heart disease.

A healthy diet may help keep prostate cancer growth in check

A 2024 study suggests that men who follow active surveillance for their low-grade prostate cancer may reduce the risk of their cancer becoming more aggressive if they maintain a healthier diet, which can help reduce inflammation.

An action plan to fight unhealthy inflammation

Inflammation serves a vital role in the body's defense and repair systems, but chronic inflammation can be harmful. Learn six of the most effective ways to ward off unhealthy inflammation.

Chips and dip add up to far more snack calories

A small 2024 study found that serving a ranch dip with salty snacks led people to consume far more calories and eat faster.

Soup up your diet

Winter soups containing beans, seasonal vegetables (such as squash, greens, and root vegetables), and whole grains are rich in heart-protecting nutrients. All the ingredients include lots of fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and is filling without adding too many calories. Homemade soups can be made with far less sodium (which raises blood pressure) than the amount found in many store-bought and restaurant soups.

The least unhealthy holiday desserts

Beyond plain fruit, it's hard to find extremely healthy holiday desserts. Dietitians recommend opting for desserts that are at least a little healthier than others. Examples of better options include fruit crisps, fruit or vegetable breads, dark chocolate bark, meringue cookies, or fruit dipped in dark chocolate. Yet even those can have high amounts of saturated fat, sugar, carbohydrates, and calories. Dietitians say it will help to have a smaller portion and savor it slowly.

Try this: Build a healthier sandwich

Sandwiches are the essential everyday, anytime meal. To make a healthy, sandwich, make sure it contains lean protein, whole grains, and a hefty serving of vegetables.

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