In case you didn’t already know it
Most people either love or hate mushrooms. But hear me out: the beauty of mushrooms is that they take on the flavor of whatever they’re cooked with. They become Asian cooked in a soy or teriyaki-style sauce. They’re Italian sauteed in olive oil, garlic and fresh basil. Sprinkle middle Eastern spices on them such as zaatar or sumac and they become Moroccan or Lebanese. For those who want to cut down on eating meat, a portobello mushroom grilled and placed in a hamburger bun is very satisfying. Mushrooms provide that ‘fifth taste’ (joining sweet, salty, sour and bitter), umami, which […]
For years, protein has dominated the wellness conversation. From protein shakes to high-protein snacks, it became the nutrient everyone focused on. But in 2026, the spotlight is shifting—and fiber is finally getting the attention it deserves. Welcome to the era of “fiber-maxxing.” It may sound like a trend, but this movement is rooted in something much deeper: a growing understanding that fiber plays a central role in gut health, inflammation, metabolism, and even how we age. The Missing Nutrient in Modern Diets Despite all the attention on healthy eating, most people still fall short when it comes to fiber. The […]
Apple Barley Salad Barley is a great source of detoxifying fiber, B vitamins, and selenium. I pair it with apples in this bright, crunchy salad. For the corn kernels, I prefer fresh-roasted corn, but you can use thawed frozen corn kernels, too. The apples can be any variety or color that you like, or even a combination. All apples contain quercetin, a compound that helps support the immune system, thereby “keeping the doctor away.” Raisins provide antioxidants and resveratrol, the same heart-healthy compound found in red wine. My Honey-Lime Dressing increases the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunity-boosting components of this recipe. […]
There are so many things in life that elevate stress—work, family, children, and the day-to-day responsibilities we all carry. Over time, especially as we age, that constant pressure can take a real toll on the body. That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to nourish ourselves with foods that help manage daily stress and support overall well-being. We all experience stress, but when it becomes constant, the body begins to feel the effects. Cortisol—often called the stress hormone—plays an important role in keeping us alert and energized. The challenge comes when it stays elevated for too long. That’s when […]
Spring is one of the most exciting seasons at the market. After months of heavier winter foods, fresh, vibrant produce starts to return—bringing lighter flavors, brighter colors, and a natural boost of nutrients. But with so many choices, one question comes up again and again: Should you always buy organic? The answer today is more balanced than it used to be. It’s not about perfection—it’s about making smart, informed choices that support your health without overcomplicating your routine. What “Healthy & Safe” Really Means Today Being mindful of your produce goes beyond just choosing organic. Today, it’s about: Nutrient density […]
I didn’t grow up eating much dairy as a child in the Philippines. Our milk came from powder, and yogurt simply wasn’t part of our daily table. It wasn’t until I visited the Golden Door spa near San Diego that I truly discovered yogurt—and everything changed. They served the most beautiful breakfast: creamy plain Greek yogurt topped with nuts, raisins, and vibrant fresh organic berries. Sometimes they added warm quinoa or chia seeds for extra nourishment. It was simple, satisfying, and incredibly delicious. Since then, yogurt has become one of my favorite ways to start the day. Not only is […]
A Book That Sparked the Wheat Debate As scientists continue to explore the connection between diet and the gut microbiome, many popular books have helped bring these discussions into the mainstream. One of the most widely talked about is Wheat Belly by cardiologist William Davis. The book ignited a global conversation about wheat, blood sugar, and digestive health—challenging long-standing advice to eat more whole grains. While some of its claims remain controversial, the book encouraged many people to think more carefully about how modern foods affect metabolism, gut health, and overall wellness. Updated Review: Wheat Belly *Wheat Belly: Lose the […]
FoodTrients is Ahead of the Curve! For years, FoodTrients® has encouraged what the new guidelines highlight: colorful vegetables and fruits, clean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, and fewer ultra-processed foods. This is how I was raised, how my father (a physician) taught me to nourish the body, and how I cook for my family — and for all of you. Real food matters. What we eat can help us feel better. And every bite can support graceful aging. As someone who has spent decades studying food-as-medicine, traveling the world to discover healing ingredients, and creating recipes that support longevity, I […]
If you’ve been following a regular workout regime, you deserve applause. I try to walk and swim as often as I can. Whether you run a few times a week, hike on the weekends or go to the gym, regular exercise is one of the most reliable ways to live a healthier life. Whatever kind of workout you practice, there are foods that can help you make the most of any exercise routine. Even though there are performance-enhancing supplements, eating the right foods is the most reliable way to build muscle and recover efficiently from workouts. Some of my favorite […]