Lauren O'Connor, MS, RDN

Himalayan salt is extracted from salt mines in Pakistan and other areas southwest of the Himalayas. It’s considered one of the purest forms of salt, as it’s free of land surface pollutants. Sea salt, as the name suggests, is derived […]

Ginger root (Zingiber officinale) belongs to the same plant family as cardamom and turmeric. In cooking, you might peel and grate the root for stir-fries or use nickel-sized slices to add fragrance to a stew. Ginger is also valued for

Nuts are packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and key nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and vitamin E. They’re a great snack to help prevent energy dips and mood swings throughout the day. If you’re working on hitting a daily protein

Refined sugar (aka table sugar) is processed from sugarcane into its familiar white crystalline form. It’s a key ingredient that can make holiday treats irresistible. Refined sugar dissolves easily and caramelizes beautifully, creating the textures you know and love. The

Taking certain supplements in the winter can support overall health and combat the season’s challenges. Cooler temperatures, dryer air, and crowded indoor spaces can increase the transmission of respiratory illnesses. Reduced sunlight can lower vitamin D levels, and the “winter

Olive oil has long been a desired staple of the Mediterranean diet, known for its contributions to overall health and longevity. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), a premium type of olive oil, is rich in beneficial monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), like

Olive oil is extracted from the fruit of the olive tree (Olea europaea L.). It is the predominant fat consumed in the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its long-standing benefits for longevity. Several studies have linked olive oil consumption to improved

Nuts are a nutrient-dense food rich in plant-based protein, heart-healthy fats, and essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and vitamin E. Getting adequate protein through your diet can help stabilize blood sugar levels, preventing energy dips and mood swings. Protein also

A standard ketogenic diet (SKD) limits carbohydrate intake to 50 grams of carbohydrates (or less) per day, protein comprises about 20% of the diet, while fat comprises about 70% of the daily intake. While there are variations to how people

Spaghetti squash (Cucurbita pepo L. var. medullosa Alef.) is a member of the pumpkin family. It is a small, yellow, watermelon-shaped edible gourd with a mildly sweet and nutty flavor. Cooking transforms its firm flesh into tender, spaghetti-like strands, making it an excellent