Nutrition Articles

Legume of the month: Mung beans

Many Asian cuisines use olive-green mung beans in soups, curries, and savory pancakes. Americans may be more familiar with slender, white mung bean sprouts, which are used in Chinese and Thai stir-fries. More »

The larger role of micronutrients

Many older men don’t get enough micronutrients from their diet. These vitamins and minerals are needed to support heart health, keep bones strong, and improve the immune system, among other health benefits. Adopting a plant-based diet that features abundant amounts of multicolored foods and trying different styles of cuisines can help people get enough variety in their diet to ensure they receive adequate amounts of vital micronutrients. (Locked) More »

5 food and drink fads you can skip

Food and drink fads that claim to be healthy aren’t always a wise choice. For example, water with added vitamins probably doesn’t have enough nutrients to make a difference in health. Coconut oil—touted as an all-natural way to boost brain function, ward off heart disease, burn fat, and improve digestion—is mostly saturated fat, which is linked to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. And there’s no evidence that adding mushroom powder to coffee or tea can reduce caffeine jitters or improve digestion, thinking skills, energy, and immune response. (Locked) More »

Fiber: The carb you can count on for heart health


Keeping your weight stable in older age

To gain weight safely in older age, eat several smaller meals and focus on nutrient-dense foods. Examples include oatmeal with berries and walnuts; a salad with spinach, tomatoes, cheese, beans, shelled sunflower seeds, and avocado dressing; brown rice with raisins, almonds, chicken chunks, and asparagus pieces; or simple meals and snacks such as scrambled eggs with cheese or whole-wheat crackers with peanut butter. A healthy weight gain should happen slowly. Aim for gaining 2 or 3 pounds per month. More »