Healthy Eating

You see them everywhere: “The ten best/worst foods for your health.” “The top five reasons you should eat/avoid particular foods.” These lists are eye-catching and can be fun to read, but they may not be the best way to get your nutrition information. And we’re going to give you the top three reasons why! 1. […]

Q: You have stated that cured meats that say ‘no nitrate or nitrite added’ still contain these potentially cancer-causing compounds. Can you please explain this? A: Alice H. Lichtenstein, DSc, Stanley N. Gershoff Professor of Nutrition Science and Policy at the Friedman School and executive editor of Tufts Health & Nutrition Letter, answers: “Adding nitrates […]

A recent study by Tufts researchers and colleagues looked at the dietary habits of nearly 4,000 participants aged 65 and older and measured the level of specific metabolites in their blood. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events—like heart attacks and strokes—were recorded over 12.5 years follow-up. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, lifestyle, and dietary factors, higher […]

Steps: Place cranberries in a small pot. Add the zest and juice of the orange, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Stir over medium heat until thickened about 8-10 minutes. Cranberries should be tender but still bright in color. Yield: Makes 2 cups (8 ¼-cup servings) Per serving: Calories: 57; Total Fat: 0 g; Saturated Fat: 0 […]

About one in three adults in the United States report routinely not getting enough sleep. Sleep insufficiency is associated with increased risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, mental health problems, injuries, loss of productivity, and death. It also appears to be associated with increased risk for obesity, especially in children. Fortunately, sleep is a modifiable risk […]

Steps: Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut acorn squash in half (cutting through the stem end) and scrape out seeds.* Cut each half into ¾-inch thick slices and place in a large bowl. Toss with the olive oil and half the vinegar; spread in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes; […]

This season, explore the many varieties of colorful, delicious, versatile, nutritious squash. Nutrition. Winter squash, like acorn, butternut, or sugar pumpkin, are a good source of dietary fiber along with vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium. They are also rich in carotenoids, plant compounds responsible for the yellows, oranges, and reds in fruits and […]

The recommended dietary pattern includes a combination of vegetables, fruits, non-fat and reduced-fat dairy, whole grains, fish, poultry, lean meats, and plant oils. “Consuming a variety of foods across all the food groups is important to ensuring you get all the nutrients you need,” says Susan B. Roberts, PhD, senior scientist and director of the […]

Steps: Place tortilla on a flat surface and spread hummus over 2/3 of the tortilla, leaving the top 1/3 empty. Add lettuce and vegetables and roll...

The research is clear: eating more whole or minimally processed plants is better for our health. Knowing how to easily make foods like vegetables taste great can help you consume more of these health-promoting options in place of less healthful choices. Building Flavor. Most U.S. adults don’t meet the recommended intake of vegetables. When we […]