Food » Viral Chatter

Man Spills the Beans on Wood Pulp in Popular Cheeses

May 27, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: LiudmylaChuhunova/DepositPhotos

Did you know some popular brands of cheeses include fillers like wood pulp? Well, it’s technically called cellulose – an additive derived from wood pulp that prevents cheese from clumping. A recent video¹ exposé by a food enthusiast has gone viral, revealing some unsavory facts about these cheese products. Calling out brands like Kraft, Sargento, and Great Value. What’s the Deal with Wood Pulp in Cheese? Cellulose, often sourced from wood pulp, is a common food additive used in shredded and grated cheeses to prevent clumping and improve texture. While the FDA considers cellulose safe to consume (ref), some consumers …

13 Superfoods That Naturally Banish Parasites

May 22, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: fuzullhanum/Deposit Photos

Parasites are more common than most people think, and they can wreak havoc on your body. But fear not! Your kitchen is full of secret weapons to combat these unwelcome guests. Here are 13 foods that have been shown to help kill parasites naturally. 1. Garlic: The Vampire Slayer of Parasites Garlic isn’t just for warding off vampires. Its potent sulfur compounds, like allicin, are effective against various parasites. Studies have shown that garlic can inhibit the growth of parasites like giardia and roundworms. Plus, its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties make it a powerhouse in maintaining overall health. (ref) …

12 Foods That Will Help Make You Smarter

May 22, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: bit245/Deposit Photos

Have you ever wondered if you could boost your brainpower by tweaking your diet? While we can’t promise you’ll turn into Einstein overnight, incorporating certain brain-boosting foods into your meals can help sharpen your memory, improve your focus, and enhance cognitive function. Ready to eat your way to a smarter you? Here are 12 foods that can give your brain a nutritious edge. 1. Blueberries: Tiny Berries, Big Brain Benefits Blueberries are often hailed as a superfood, and for a good reason. Rich in antioxidants, especially flavonoids, blueberries have been shown to enhance memory and cognitive function. Studies have demonstrated …

10 Foods That Could Slow Down Digestion & Cause Discomfort

May 1, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: Hugo Felix/Shutterstock

Ever felt like your digestive system is on a go-slow? Sometimes, the culprit could be right on your plate. While a variety of factors contribute to constipation, your diet plays a pivotal role. Understanding which foods might be gumming up the works can help you make better choices for your gut health. Here’s a look at some common foods that are known to make some people feel constipated, complete with the why and the how and a few surprising facts that might help you keep things moving smoothly. 1. Red Meat Red meat can take center stage in many decadent …

Hooked on Fish? Think Twice Before Dining on These Ocean Dwellers

April 30, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: RossHelen/Shutterstock

When the bounty of the sea is just a menu selection away, it’s easy to forget that not all fish are created equal—especially when it comes to our health and the environment. While fish is celebrated for its nutritional benefits, certain species come with a hefty side of concerns. From mercury levels to environmental impact, let’s dive into the fishy details about which fish might be better left off your plate. 1. King Mackerel King Mackerel is a fish that’s as regal as its name suggests, but its high mercury content might make you think twice about consuming it regularly. …

10 Healthy Snacks That Tickle Your Taste Buds & Benefit Your Heart

April 29, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: MiniStocker/Shutterstock.

Who says snacking is a no-no when you’re watching your heart health? Toss aside that outdated notion and prepare to indulge—responsibly, of course! From the tantalizing crunch of nuts to the creamy delight of avocado dips, we’ve handpicked some scrumptious snacks that not only satisfy those mid-day cravings but also do wonders for your heart. So, get ready to snack your way to a healthier heart with these irresistible options! 1. Almonds Almonds are like the superheroes of the snacking world. A small handful of these crunchy delights can pack a punch for heart health. Rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, …

10 Foods You Can Indulge in Without Packing on Pounds

April 29, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: Olga Pink/Shutterstock

Let’s be real—the idea of eating whatever you want without gaining weight sounds like a dream come true. But believe it or not, certain foods can help make that dream a reality. From nutrient-dense veggies to fiber-rich fruits, these low-calorie powerhouses will keep you feeling satisfied without expanding your waistline. 1. Popcorn (Air-Popped) Who doesn’t love a big bowl of popcorn while binge-watching their favorite shows? Well, you’re in luck because air-popped popcorn is a whole-grain snack that’s low in calories but high in fiber, making it a filling and nutritious choice. A 3-cup serving contains a mere 93 calories, …

10 Perfect Midnight Munches That Won’t Spike Your Blood Sugar

April 29, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: innovatedcaptures/DepositPhotos

It’s midnight, and your stomach is growling. While reaching for a snack might feel like navigating a minefield if you’re watching your blood sugar levels, the good news is that not all snacks are created equal. Choosing the right bedtime nibble can satisfy your cravings without throwing your glucose levels into a frenzy. Here, we share five delicious snacks that are proven to be friendly to your blood sugar, making your midnight snacking guilt-free and healthful. 1. Greek Yogurt with a Dash of Cinnamon Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and low in carbohydrates, which means it won’t …

6 Foods That Naturally Boost Your Hydration: Eat Your Water

April 29, 2024 by davin

Image Credit: kapitonenko/DepositPhotos

We’ve all heard the advice to drink more water, but did you know you can also eat your way to better hydration? Incorporating water-rich foods into your diet is a delicious strategy to help meet your daily fluid needs. Staying hydrated isn’t just about quenching thirst – it’s essential for overall health and bodily functions. Proper hydration aids digestion, circulation, nutrient absorption, and even cognitive performance. So why not make hydration a flavorful pursuit? 1. Watermelon This quintessential summer fruit is a hydration heavyweight, with its flesh consisting of a whopping 92% water. Each juicy bite not only refreshes but …

How Corn Evolved from Inedible Wild Grass to a Global Staple

April 27, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: lovelyday12/Shutterstock.

Corn isn’t just a staple on our plates—it’s a triumph of human ingenuity in agriculture. This ubiquitous grain has journeyed from its wild roots as a tenacious grass to become the backbone of civilizations and a culinary chameleon in our kitchens. Here, we trace corn’s extraordinary evolution, revealing how this simple grain shaped history and continues to innovate our meals. Nine thousand years ago, the ancestor of modern corn was not the robust, kernel-packed cob we know today. It was teosinte, a wild grass native to southern Mexico, bearing little resemblance to contemporary corn. Teosinte’s cobs were minuscule, with just …