Lifestyle

Goitrogens are compounds found in certain foods that can interfere with iodine absorption and affect thyroid function. Some health influencers argue that foods containing goitrogens are harmful and should be avoided. However, many of the foods that are highest in goitrogens also offer important health benefits. So should you avoid goitrogens, or enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet? And are there ways to reduce goitrogen levels in foods?

Scientists created polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to make our lives easier. But in the process, they’ve created “forever chemicals” that are contaminating our soil, water, and bodies. Find out how scientists at Michigan State University are working on removing PFAS from our environment and food supply.

Summer squash is a versatile and abundant vegetable. But sometimes, it can be difficult to know how to deal with the sheer volume that comes from the garden. Or even what to do with it when it’s available at the grocery store or farmers market. How do you select, store, and prepare summer squash for maximum nutrition and culinary value? And what are some creative ways to cook it and make the most of a summer harvest?

Many people love avocados yet consistently end up disappointed by over- or underripe fruit. How can you tell when an avocado is ready to eat? What are the best techniques for cutting, storing, and eating this beloved fruit? Unlock the secrets to avocado mastery, and discover creative ways to incorporate avocados into your meals with seven delicious recipes.

Reading a recipe may seem pretty straightforward. However, there can be foreign ingredients (looking at you kala namak), unfamiliar measurements (how much is a pinch, exactly?), and prep instructions (don’t forget to soak the cashews!) that you’ll want to know before starting a recipe. And understanding how to read a recipe can set you up for success in the kitchen. In this article, you learn how to follow recipes from start to finish and create knockout dishes every time.

BPA is a chemical that’s used in plastics, food and drink containers, cans, pizza boxes, shopping receipts, baby bottles, and much more. Scientists and public health advocates have been sounding the alarm on BPA for years, pointing out that it may be linked to reproductive health problems, diabetes, asthma, obesity, and harming fetal neurodevelopment. But its health effects may be further reaching than expected, and BPA substitutes may not be any better. Discover the latest research on BPA and similar chemicals — and what you can do about limiting your exposure.

The nutrient choline is essential for human health. But most people understand very little about this crucial compound. In this article, we’ll examine what choline is, how much you need, and what the best sources are. We’ll take a look at the controversies over whether plant-based eaters are at risk of choline deficiency, explore whether supplements are needed, and find out what might happen if you get too much choline.

Craving something sweet in the summertime? Skip the unhealthy processed desserts made with refined sugars or artificial sweeteners. Instead, try one (or all!) of these refreshingly healthy summer desserts. (Hint: You can enjoy many of them in fall, winter, and spring, too!)

Food scraps often end up in the compost pile. But what if you could regrow fruits and vegetables using leftover scraps? See how you can reduce food waste and save money while also providing your family with fresh produce.

Many people regard eggs as essential ingredients in cakes, cookies, and other baked desserts. And eggs definitely do their part in binding, leavening, coloring, and flavoring baked goods. But there are a lot of good reasons you may want to avoid eggs. Does this mean you have to give up dessert forever? Or are there plant-based substitutes that can still give you delicious eggless desserts?

Asparagus can be an intimidating food to tackle if you’re not familiar with this regal vegetable. Uncooked, parts of it are tough and fibrous, and yet it can turn to mush when overcooked. But thanks to its delicious taste, varieties, versatility, and nutritional profile, it’s well worth getting to know — and love — asparagus. Discover how to cook and use asparagus with seven delicious plant-based recipes.

Have you been curious about plant-based eating but unsure where to start? Or perhaps you have successfully made some plant-based meals, but haven’t yet ventured beyond what you know. In this How to Cook series article, we review our top ten tips (plus a bonus tip!) to getting started — or progressing — in a plant-based kitchen.