Oils are often treated as neutral ingredients in the diet. They are poured, drizzled, sautéed, and baked with little thought beyond convenience or flavor. In most nutrition conversations, oils are discussed simply as fats, and fats are categorized as beneficial or harmful based largely on their fatty acid profile. However, oils deserve closer examination, particularly in discussions about inflammation. Unlike whole food fat sources such as nuts, seeds, olives, or avocados, oi

Protein is often treated as the centerpiece of nutrition. It is linked to strength, metabolism, recovery, and overall health. For decades, conversations about protein focused almost exclusively on animal-based foods, reinforcing the idea that adequacy, quality, and satisfaction required meat, dairy, or eggs. That narrative is shifting. Plant-based proteins are not a trend or a replacement strategy. They are part of a broader evolution in how we understand nourishment, inflamm

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR In winter, nutrition conversations tend to split in two directions. On one side, there is comfort food and resignation. On the other, restriction framed as discipline. Neither approach reflects how the body actually functions. The body does not thrive on extremes. It thrives on cooperation. Macronutrients carbohydrates, fats, and protein are not competing forces. They are part of an integrated system that supports energy availability, immune regulat

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR   The human digestive system is one of the most remarkable systems in the body. It is both physical and emotional, mechanical and intuitive. When we begin to nourish ourselves consistently, the gut begins its own process of balance and renewal. It learns to trust that nourishment will come again, that digestion can occur at a natural rhythm, and that the body is safe to receive and release.   Fiber is one of the key nutrients that helps restore this

How pairing berries with the right foods unlocks a whole world of benefits for your body and mind By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Berries have always been a part of my kitchen. In summer, I keep bowls of fresh blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries out where my kids can see them. In winter, I rely on frozen berries for smoothies, oatmeal, and even savory salads. We all know berries are “good for us” — they are famous for being antioxidant powerhouses. I even wrote a full artic

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR I have always loved vinegar. I like bold flavors and anything with a little bite, and vinegar fits the bill. Yesterday I sliced cucumbers and let them sit in a mix of apple cider vinegar and rice vinegar with salt and cracked pepper. I have drizzled balsamic over cold watermelon on a warm day. The experience is not just about taste. There is something deeply satisfying about how vinegar cuts through richness and wakes up a dish and your senses. As m

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, are essential for maintaining a variety of bodily functions. These nutrients support everything from immune function and cell growth to bone health and metabolic processes. The interesting thing is that they don’t directly supply the body with calories or energy. Instead, they enable the body to metabolize and use the energy stored in macronutrients effectively. For example, think about iron. Iron is

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR What if the sweetener in your ‘healthy’ yogurt is doing more harm than good? Sucralose, aka Splenda, is used in everything from protein shakes to ‘guilt-free’ snacks. But mounting evidence suggests it might be fueling your hunger, disrupting your gut, and confusing your metabolism. Let’s break down the science and uncover the not-so-sweet truth. A Sweet Beginning: The History of Sucralose Sucralose was discovered in 1976 by researchers at Queen Eliz

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Pumpkin seeds are a great source of plant-based protein to fuel your body and support your health goals. 🎃💪 Protein is one of the three essential macronutrients that our bodies rely on to function optimally. It plays a crucial role in a wide range of physiological processes, including tissue repair, immune defense, and the production of enzymes, hormones, and structural components such as muscles, skin, and hair. While carbohydrates are the body’

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Fiber is a fundamental component of a healthy diet, yet most Americans consume significantly less than the recommended daily intake. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest a daily fiber intake of 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men, yet the average American consumes only about 15 grams per day. This shortfall has profound implications for health, as research consistently links fiber intake to improved digestive function, cardiovascular hea

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Good dental health goes beyond brushing and flossing—it starts with nutrition. The foods and drinks we consume, as well as key minerals, impact tooth strength, bacterial balance, and oral conditions like dry mouth and sensitivity. This article explores how nutrition affects oral health, the role of essential minerals, evidence-based products for enamel protection, and safe approaches to teeth whitening. The Role of Nutrition in Dental Health Bone St

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Kidney stones are a painful condition characterized by the formation of solid masses within the kidneys. These crystalline structures arise when substances in urine, such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and struvite, precipitate and aggregate. My personal experience with this condition, which included a week-long hospital stay, highlights the importance of understanding and managing kidney stone risk. As a Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Register

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar, appetite, and weight. Medications like Ozempic and Manjaro leverage this mechanism to help with blood sugar control and weight loss, but these solutions may not be sustainable for long-term health unless paired with meaningful lifestyle changes. For those interested in natural approaches, incorporating GLP-1-stimulating foods into your diet can be a po

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Imagine for a moment: a single human cell, bustling with activity like a miniature city. Each day, around 50 billion cells in your body die, and just as many are meticulously remade. This ceaseless renewal requires precise orchestration and a steady supply of essential nutrients to keep your body humming along in harmony. Among these nutrients, carbohydrates play a critical and often misunderstood role. The Marvel of Cellular Architecture To underst

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Antioxidants provide essential protection to our bodies and support health in countless ways. From brightening our skin to bolstering biological pathways, they’re a key ingredient in a vibrant, healthy life. Let’s explore why antioxidants are so vital, how they function, and the best ways to incorporate them into your diet using whole foods, herbs, and spices. What Are Antioxidants? Antioxidants are molecules that protect your cells from damage caus

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR A Vibrant Hue, A Potent Brew Butterfly pea powder, derived from the vibrant blue flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, has been captivating cultures for centuries. This natural dye, traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine, is now gaining global recognition for its stunning color and potential health benefits. The Science Behind the Sapphire The distinctive blue color of butterfly pea powder isn't just beautiful, it's packed with powerful an

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Iron, a seemingly small player in the human body, holds immense power. This essential mineral influences everything from your energy levels to your brain function. But with so much information out there, navigating iron can be confusing. This guide dives deep into understanding iron, its role in your health, and how to ensure you get enough safely. How Iron Works Iron journeys from the earth's crust into your bloodstream through the food you eat. Th

by Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Your nails are more than just a reflection of personal grooming; they’re a valuable indicator of your overall health and nutritional status. Subtle changes in color, texture, or growth patterns can provide early clues about deficiencies, systemic conditions, or other health issues. Learning to pay attention to these signs can help you stay attuned to your body's needs in a mindful and proactive way. The Whole-Foods Approach to Nutrient Intake While

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR I have a deep fondness for coffee—a love that warms my mornings and fuels my day. While I also enjoy tea and its soothing qualities, coffee holds a special place in my heart, and for good reason. This remarkable beverage offers a variety of health benefits, provided it’s consumed in moderation. Let’s dive into the science behind why coffee deserves a little appreciation, from brain health to its surprising uses in medicine. 1. Brain Health & Cogniti

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR When you think about calcium, strong bones and teeth might be the first things that come to mind. But this mineral does so much more! Calcium is crucial for muscle contraction, heart health, nerve signaling, and even blood clotting. Let’s dive into why calcium is essential, how to get enough, and how it impacts your overall health. What Is Calcium’s Role in Bone Health? Calcium is responsible for supporting the skeletal structure and function in bon