April 7, 2025

Part I: Which Food Additives Are Safe to Eat?

In today’s world of processed foods, food additives have become a common part of our diets. You may have heard that some researchers believe artificial additives in processed foods contribute to health issues like type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions. However, what you might not know is that some food additives are actually safe and even beneficial. In this first part of a two-part article, I’ll introduce you to food additives that are considered safe for consumption. Can You Have Food Additives and Good Health? I’ll admit—there are certain processed foods I enjoy, like yogurt, peanut butter, and packaged […]
March 18, 2025

Tofu & Veggie Stir-Fry: A Tasty, Nutrient-Rich Delight!

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry Tofu is an excellent alternative to meat, and this stir-fry will provide you with plenty of health-boosting vegetables. Broccoli is a good source of lutein, a hedge against macular degeneration. Cauliflower and kale have phytonutrients that protect against cancer. I use a wok to prepare this dish, but a large skillet will work, too. The tofu doesn’t have to be fried first, but frying gives it a nice texture. SERVES 2-4 Ingredients 1 package (8 oz.) firm tofu 6 Tbs. peanut oil 1 Tbs. grated gingerroot 2 Tbs. minced garlic 1 cup baby carrots 1 cup […]
March 18, 2025

Do You Have Trouble Swallowing?

Sometimes I’ll see patients with the complaint that they’re having trouble swallowing, or a sensation that food is getting stuck in their throat and doesn’t go down easily.  The medical term for this is a hard word to pronounce –dysphagia (dis-faj-ah) – and could stem from a number of causes.  If you experience difficult swallowing, here’s what you should know about it. Dysphagia – What Trouble Swallowing Could Mean Trouble swallowing – dysphagia – rarely occurs on its own.  It usually accompanies some other condition of which it is a symptom.  It most frequently occurs in older people, and those with […]
March 17, 2025

Part II: Bad Food Additives to Avoid

In Part I, I covered some surprisingly safe food additives found in many foods you may already enjoy. The good news? You don’t have to give those foods up. However, on the flip side, there are food additives that I strongly recommend avoiding due to potential health risks. Here’s what you need to know. Does Your Favorite Food Contain These Harmful Additives? Many of us have eaten certain processed foods for years without really checking the ingredient list. Some food additives pose little to no risk, while others can negatively impact health. The frustrating part? Both safe and harmful additives […]
March 17, 2025

Elevate Your Cooking with Tomato-Based Sauces

Everyone has their go-to sauces that add flavor and excitement to their meals. A well-crafted sauce can transform simple foods like chicken, omelets, or pasta into something extraordinary. And with just a few tweaks, you can put a fresh spin on your classic favorites. Let’s start with tomato sauce—an essential in many cuisines, from Italian to Mexican. But did you know that with a few simple changes, you can create unique variations with global influences? Tomatoes are a powerhouse FoodTrient, packed with lycopene, a potent antioxidant in the carotenoid family that also includes beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin—all of which are […]
March 17, 2025

Deliciously Good for Your Gut: Pineapple Black Bean Salsa

Pineapple Black Bean Salsa Party food can most definitely be colorful, delicious, and healthy at the same time. This pineapple black bean salsa is a perfect example. Pineapple, beans, avocado, and other nutrient-dense ingredients combine to create a festive dish that promotes optimal energy levels, digestion, and wellbeing. This dish is also versatile. Try serving it with tortilla chips as an appetizer or use it as a sweet and spicy topping for grilled tofu or fish. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit at your next summer barbecue. Serves 6-8 Ingredients 1 pineapple, peeled and diced (about 2 ½ […]
March 5, 2025

Antioxidant-Rich Kale-Cashew Pesto: Boost Flavor & Immunity

Kale-Cashew Pesto Cashews are a sweet nut that helps to balance the sharpness of kale. I use Tuscan kale, which is mild and tender. It’s also called lactinato kale, black kale, or cavolo nero. This pesto is wonderful tossed with pasta, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or even spread on sandwiches. This recipe is from The Age Beautifully Cookbook, and it’s loaded with antioxidants, which prevent and repair oxidative damage to cells caused by free radicals. Cashews themselves contribute to this antioxidant power, as they are rich in vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress while supporting […]
March 5, 2025

Top 10 Teas for Calming, Sleep, and Anxiety

Going through a stressful time at work or home? Struggling to control your anxiety levels or having troubles falling or staying asleep at night? You could already have a natural remedy right in your kitchen that can make a huge difference: tea! While tea also has properties to calm inflammation, boost energy, or even support the immune system, it can also have a calming effect and help reduce anxiety. While there’s a baseline for self-care during stressful times; lean on your support system, seek professional help from a therapist or counselor, eat a balanced diet, hydrate, focus on sleep, and […]
March 5, 2025

Get a Wellness Tune-Up with Terrific Tonics

With all the stress we juggle—packed schedules, deadlines, work, family responsibilities, and everything in between—we could all use a little pick-me-up sometimes. It’s easy to reach for coffee or even a glass of wine, but both come with drawbacks that can mess with mood, energy, and mental clarity. When I need a little extra support to power through a busy day, calm my mind, or even get better sleep, I turn to something I trust: herbal tonics. These natural remedies have been used for centuries to restore balance, and they’ve become my go-to for staying energized and centered. Tonics Are […]