Access to food that promotes health and well-being is a struggle for many people. Food as medicine (FAM) is a way for healthcare professionals (HCPs) to incorporate nutrition interventions in patient care to improve health and nutrition security.
It’s widely understood that proper nutrition is essential for brain development. For children, the positive impact of a healthful and varied diet stems far beyond this – it contributes to improved focus, concentration, and ultimately supports learning potential and academic achievement. ...
Over the last decade, the human gastrointestinal microbiome and its role in health and disease has risen as a research hotspot. In addition to its undeniable connection to the brain and immunity, emerging studies have uncovered the link between gut health and skin health, aptly referred to as the gut-skin axis. Researchers have found that gut dysbiosis, or an imbalance of microorganisms in the intestines, not only alters the skin microbiome, but may also contribute to a variety of skin disorders and diseases.1 This includes acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis. To provide patient education on ways to improve skin health through the gut, it’s important for healthcare professionals to understand the role of the skin microbiome, how it is affected by the gut and science-based recommendations that could be beneficial for both areas of the body.
Over the last century, life expectancy has slowly and steadily increased, which has been attributed to the evolution of medicine and changes in the American lifestyle, with an emphasis on healthier habits and regular exercise. However, one thing that remains the same is the gender gap. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women tend to live an average of 5 years longer than men.1 While this gender gap in life expectancy is not a new phenomenon, researchers suggest there are many reasons that contribute to this ratio shift that favors women. This includes biological factors such as hormonal influences on physiology and behavior, and environmental factors, such as cultural influences on gender differences in health behaviors. As a result of perceived vulnerability, denial and traditional macho views on masculinity, men tend to underuse primary and mental health care services and are less likely to seek medical attention early and adhere to medical treatment, if diagnosed.2
Hormones are essential for life as they help to optimize all aspects of health and performance. From growth development and reproduction to metabolism, mood and sleep cycles, hormones play a crucial role in many different processes in the body. While men and women have the same basic hormones, the levels of two of the major sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, are generally higher for women with a vastly different pattern of production that changes over time and throughout their lifespan. This makes hormonal balance especially critical for women’s health. While this balance can be disrupted in many ways, including the natural fluctuations that occur during puberty and menopause, simple dietary and lifestyle changes can help restore proper levels of hormones.
Over the last few years, a mounting body of research has shown that the current process of food production and consumption are major drivers of increases in greenhouse gas emissions, land and resource use, and adverse health effects.1 This is especially alarming considering society will have to provide food security for the growing global population while shifting to healthier diets. Research examining the co-benefits of shifting to universally sustainable diets, that consider dietary needs, nutritional quality, and environmental footprints, may significantly reduce all-cause mortality and cancer risk, alongside a potential reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and land use.2
Aside from water, proteins are the most abundant molecules in the human body and is the major structural component of all cells. In addition to helping the body repair cells and make new ones, protein is important for growth and development in children, teens, and pregnant women. As humans age, it’s even more crucial to consume enough high-quality protein in the diet to better preserve muscle mass and strength, increase the body’s immune function, help decrease recovery time from illness, and maintain a certain quality of life.1
Protein is a macronutrient essential to every cell in the human body. Favored by athletes and fitness enthusiasts, dietary protein is commonly idolized for its muscle-building benefits, but these large, complex molecules are critical for maintaining optimal health during growth and aging...
Every year, millions of Americans look to January as a time for a fresh start for their health and wellness goals. While the act of setting resolutions is easy, successfully implementing meaningful changes to one’s routine over the long run can be challenging.
With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, we must rethink ways to feed a population of this magnitude safely, sustainably…