Nutrition & Lifestyle

Coconut Oil: From Food to Medicine and Back

By Kristen Schepker | Contributing Writer - Vol. 15, No. 2. , 2014

For thousands of years, indigenous peoples in tropical regions have recognized the vast nutritional and medicinal value of the coconut palm. Referred to as the “tree of life” among tropical cultures, virtually all parts of the coconut palm have found use in traditional foods and medicines.

An Ancient Grain Eases A Modern Ailment

By Janet Gulland, Contributing Writer

Data from a randomized cross-over trial indicate that Khorasan wheat, an ancient Near Eastern grain better known by its commercial name, Kamut, appears to be a much better option than conventional wheat for people with irritable bowel syndrome.

Root Veggies, Not Other Produce, Cut Diabetes Risk

By Kristen Schepker | Contributing Writer

It’s common knowledge that a healthy intake of fresh fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A recent prospective study and meta-analysis takes this piece of advice one step further, claiming that a specific type of produce may take the (sugar-free) cake when it comes to diabetes prevention.

NANP Fosters Interdisciplinary Forum on Nutrition

By Danielle Hart, Contributing Writer

Last Spring, over 250 holistic health professionals gathered for the National Association of Nutrition Professionals’ annual conference in Del Mar, CA. The organization is committed to building bridges between various healthcare professionals, to improve public access to effective nutritional guidance.

Thylakoids in Leafy Greens May Help Regulate Appetite

By Lauren Brandstadter - Vol. 14, No. 1. , 2013

Everyone knows spinach and other leafy greens are packed with important nutrients. What’s less known is that these veggies come with built-in appetite regulators. Thylakoids—the membrane-enclosed photosynthetic “pouches” inside the chloroplasts of green leaves—trigger satiety signals and slow lipid absorption in humans & other mammals.