nutrition

Sergey Kirsanov / Getty images The açai palm—Euterpe oleracea—is a plant native to the Amazon region of tropical Central and South America. It produces small, deep purple-colored berries that are rich in nutrients and antioxidant compounds. Indigenous communities of the Amazon have used açai berries as a food source and …

Protein is one of three macronutrients, which are nutrients your body needs in large amounts on a daily basis. Protein is broken down into amino acids, which are required for critical processes like muscle growth, hormone and neurotransmitter synthesis, and immune function.  While protein is essential for health and high-protein …

Although carbohydrates get a bad rap for causing your blood glucose to rise too quickly, not all carbs are created equal. While a diet high in refined carbohydrates and added sugar (such as white rice, white flour products, sugar drinks, and sweets) is linked to an increased risk of diseases, …

Herbs and spices have been used by people around the world since ancient times for both culinary and medicinal purposes. In addition to adding flavor and nutrients to recipes, herbs and spices contain a variety of compounds that may help reduce inflammation, improve symptoms of certain medical conditions, and protect …

Water is essential to good health. About 50% to 60% of your body is water, and keeping that level in balance through hydration is important. There is actually no universal recommendation for how much water you should drink each day. Instead, there are recommendations for daily fluid intake, which can …

Antioxidants are substances that prevent or delay cell damage caused by compounds called free radicals. These free radicals are highly reactive compounds that can damage cells and lead to the development of chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and more. Antioxidants counter the damage caused by …

Daniel Day / Getty Images Gluten is an umbrella term used to describe a group of proteins called prolamins and glutelins found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten is highly elastic and gives baked goods like bread their chewy texture. In addition to being found present in many …

Every cell in the human body is partly made from protein. Eating protein from foods helps your body repair existing cells and make new ones. These include enzymes that help break down food, hormones, immune cells, skin, muscles, and organs. Eating too little protein can make it difficult for your …

Getting enough fiber in your diet is important for your digestive health, and it can help protect you against common chronic diseases. Even though diets rich in this nutrient have been linked to a longer life, lower rates of heart disease and cancer, and reduced rates of obesity, most Americans …

Hinterhaus Productions / Getty Images A calorie is a measure of energy, often used to express the nutritional value of foods. The energy that food provides is actually measured in kilocalories or kcals, which is the amount of energy needed to raise 1 kilogram of water by 1-degree celsius. Your …