Try growing healthy microgreens indoors
Microgreens have been popping up as garnishes at high-end restaurants, but they’re more than just a gourmet trick of the trade. The 2-to-3-inch seedlings of edible plants, which add a burst of color and flavor to food, are packed with nutrients and can make for a fun indoor gardening project. At an average retail price of about $30 per tray, the little nutritional powerhouses can... READ MORE
Who knew? A healthy gut helps your heart
Your gut microbiome — a collection of trillions of microorganisms inhabiting your intestinal tract — has wide-ranging effects on your health. Your unique mix of bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses reflects your genes, your age, the medications you take — but most of all, what you eat. Over the past two decades, numerous studies have explored how gut microbes and their breakdown... READ MORE
Warm up mornings with a fresh casserole
On a cool, crisp morning, it’s hard to beat an exciting twist on a breakfast classic. This French Toast Casserole is crisp on top while soft and moist in the middle, coming fresh out of the oven with the aroma of maple syrup and pecans that will have the whole house eager for a bite. It’s easy enough to make fresh in the morning but can also be prepared the night before — so all ... READ MORE
What to do about shaky hands, angina
Q: I have developed a tremor in both my hands. It gets worse when I get nervous. Is this the start of Parkinson’s disease? Can it be treated? A: It’s not surprising that you associate tremor with Parkinson’s disease. But it is much more likely that you have essential tremor, a very common disorder. Tremor is the shaky movements of your hands, limbs, head or voice that you... READ MORE
Drugs may reach brain faster with ultrasound
Scientists have found a way to help Alzheimer’s drugs seep inside the brain faster — by temporarily breaching its protective shield. The novel experiment was a first attempt in just three patients. But in spots in the brain where the new technology took aim, it enhanced the removal of Alzheimer’s trademark brain-clogging plaque, researchers reported last month. “Our goal is to ... READ MORE
The best snacks to eat for energy all day
Snacking often gets a bad reputation, but strategic snacking can help us maintain stable energy throughout the day so we don’t crash and run out of steam. It can also help us avoid dips in mood that may be related to unstable blood sugar, which plays a big role in energy levels. For the most filling snacks that will help keep your energy levels up, aim for a combination of protein, fat ... READ MORE
Is hair loss related to protein deficiency?
Q: My hair seems to be getting thinner, and I see more on my hairbrush now. Should I be eating more protein? A: For most people with hair loss, inadequate protein is not to blame. It’s true that severe protein malnutrition may cause hair loss. But people with adequate access to food, a normal appetite and normal digestion should not lose hair due to low protein intake. In fact,... READ MORE
Ways to improve your piece of the planet
The fight against climate change requires the mass cooperation of industries, companies, governments and communities, but individuals also have a role to play. Little things make a difference and feel good, too. Here are a few small, easily achievable ways to lead more climate-friendly lives: Make the most of groceries Food waste is an enormous environmental concern, yet it’s often... READ MORE
Six high-fiber vegetables to add to your diet
We all know that consuming a good amount of fiber is important for our overall health, but do we know why? “Eating more high-fiber vegetables is one of the best things people can do for their health,” explained nutrition expert Meghan Novoshielski M.S., RDN. “Fiber helps with weight loss, keeps blood sugars stable, protects cardiovascular and digestive health and fuels a healthy... READ MORE
Volunteers with asthma needed for NIH study
If you or someone you love suffers from asthma, you know how frightening an asthma attack can be — gasping for breath, unable to get enough air. Researchers want to know what causes inflammation in the lungs that leads to asthma and other diseases. A study is underway now at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute comparing lung cells from healthy people with those of people with ... READ MORE