Diet & Nutrition focuses on healthy eating habits, meal planning, and the benefits of various nutrients, providing tips for maintaining a balanced diet and improving overall health.

Wasabi peas are prized for their crunchy bite and sharp heat. They’re a well-liked snack in Japan and have gained fans worldwide. (img by Nouri Brothers) These snacks are made from dried, roasted green peas coated in a blend of oil, salt, sugar, and wasabi — a potent, pungent paste. Despite their rising popularity, many wonder whether this zesty treat is nutritious and if it can fit into a balanced…

Cold-pressed extraction is a widely used method to obtain olive oil without applying heat or chemical solvents. The process entails crushing olives into a paste and then separating the oil from the solid material by mechanical pressing or centrifugation. Under European food regulations, processing temperatures must not exceed 81°F (27°C) (1). Because cold pressing avoids high temperatures, it may help the oil preserve more of its nutritional components, since valuable…

Some people claim that sipping olive oil can help purge toxins from the body, calm digestive issues, and aid weight loss. Still, further investigation is required to confirm these assertions. Olive oil is well known for its favorable effects on health. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds and may help protect against certain chronic conditions. Although it’s frequently used for cooking and as a dip, some individuals think that consuming…

Yeast extract is a flavoring ingredient derived from the same species of yeast used to bake bread and brew beer. It’s commonly incorporated into products such as soy sauce and various cheeses to provide a savory, full-bodied taste often described as “umami.” You’ll also find yeast extract in canned soups and stews, frozen entrees, and many salty snack foods. In countries like the UK and Australia it’s even sold as…

When apples are pressed into juice, their hydration potential is enhanced and some phytochemicals remain. However, juicing diminishes other advantages of whole apples, such as fiber content and the capacity to curb appetite. Apples contain many health-promoting compounds that may support cardiovascular, cognitive, and physical well-being. Apple juice is produced by extracting liquid from apples. There are certain health perks to drinking apple juice, but consuming it in large amounts—particularly…

Nopal cactus, often called the prickly pear, grows natively across the southwestern United States and Mexico. Its flattened pads are edible when young, though they become too fibrous to eat as the plant matures. In many regions of Mexico, nopal is a staple ingredient in traditional dishes. (img by Rancho Natura) There are multiple uses for nopal cactus: it’s used in jellies and confections, and even historically as an additive…

Hyperkalemia, or elevated potassium, occurs when potassium concentration in the bloodstream rises above about 5.0 mmol/L. Choosing foods lower in potassium can help reduce the risk of cardiac and renal complications. Vitamins and minerals are essential for proper cellular, nerve, and muscle activity. But excessive amounts of certain minerals — potassium included — can be detrimental. Hyperkalemia is defined when blood potassium exceeds the normal window of 3.5 to 5.0…

Following a diet low in phenylalanine can prevent intellectual disability and other complications in people with phenylketonuria. The meal plan emphasizes low-protein choices and excludes high-protein items. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic disorder in which a mutation leads to reduced or absent activity of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH). PAH normally helps break down the amino acid phenylalanine (Phe). In individuals with PKU, Phe builds up in the body. Because…

Graham crackers likely evoke images of campfire s’mores or convenient snacks you might hand to the kids in your life. They’re a sweet, crunchy treat enjoyed by people of all ages, but you may be curious whether they’re a nutritious option. This piece examines the nutrition of graham crackers and evaluates whether they’re a sensible choice for heart health, blood sugar management, and children’s diets. (img by Bigger Bolder Baking)…