Intermittent fasting: Benefits, how it works, and is it right for you?

Intermittent fasting is likely something you’ve tried or heard of a friend trying. This weight-loss trend continues to gain a lot of attention for people looking to slim down. UC Davis Health Registered Dietitian Melinda Gong explains intermittent fasting and some of the pros and cons of the eating plan. Where did fasting originate? To […]

Your guide to low sodium eating and how to lower blood pressure

To keep a heart-healthy diet and help lower blood pressure, it’s important to watch the amount of salt (sodium) in your diet. Eating foods with a lot of sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health conditions. Your total amount of sodium per day should be no more than 1,500-2,000 milligrams (mg). Sodium and salt are often […]

Food safety in hot weather: 4 tips to keep your family safe

The heat is on this summer, which means many of us will be enjoying the great outdoors with our family and friends. If you’re having a picnic or barbecue outside, here are some tips to keep mind to ensure everyone stays healthy and safe. 1. Pack food safely When you’re packing up food at home and […]

Bad eating habits: When, what and how often you eat matters

When it comes to eating, everyone has different habits. Some of us enjoy three meals a day, while some of us would rather enjoy little snacks and meals spread throughout the day. Additionally, we also must compete with the demands of our everyday lives affecting our meals. You might work two jobs and take care […]

4 tips to reduce added sugar in your diet and the health risks if you don’t

Most of us can relate to craving a sweet treat or soda to get through the day. These foods contain added sugars. An occasional treat is okay, but too much sugar can negatively impact our health. In this blog, we offer some information and tips from UC Davis Health registered dietitians to reduce added sugars in your […]

Dietitians’ tips for sustainable eating that are good for you and the planet

March is National Nutrition Month, and the theme for 2023 is “Fuel for the Future.” It underscores the importance of choosing nutritious foods that are also good for the environment. One example of choosing foods that benefit our plant would be eating legumes (beans, lentils, peas) instead of meat as a source of protein. “Generally, plant-based foods […]

Dark chocolate health benefits? The good and the bad to this sweet treat

Nothing celebrates Valentine’s Day like a lovely heart-shaped box of chocolates. In recent years, chocolates – specifically dark chocolates – have been praised as a healthy treat. Most dark chocolate is rich in plant chemicals called flavanols. Flavanols are antioxidants linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Read more: 5 ways to keep your heart healthy and happy In […]

4 ingredients that can add nutrients to your soup

For some, colder months are synonymous with soup season. From creamy tomato to hearty chili, soup is a great way to add local produce. While some soup recipes are already pretty healthy, there are even more ways to add nutrients to your cozy bowl. Here are four different substitutions and additions you can make to […]

How do energy drinks affect your health?

Many people enjoy energy drinks for that quick boost of energy they provide. However, these drinks can have some negative impacts on your health and heart. Energy drinks are very easy to get, and many people drink them without thinking about how they might affect their health. With the rise in popularity of these drinks, […]