Theresa “Sam” Houghton - Author - Center for Nutrition Studies

Are Humans Similar to Cows? Genetics, Digestion, and Implications for Diet

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Sat, 29 Oct 2022 05:40:37 +0000

The debate over the optimal human diet is less about whether we can eat animal-based foods than whether we should. Additionally, comparing ourselves to cows raises the question: are animal dairy products a natural part of the human diet?

The post Are Humans Similar to Cows? Genetics, Digestion, and Implications for Diet appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Plant-Based Baby Formula: Alternatives When Breastfeeding Isn’t an Option

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 10:48:03 +0000

The benefits of breastfeeding are indisputable. That’s why leading health organizations recommend women breastfeed exclusively for at least six months. However, breastfeeding is not always an option. Here’s what parents need to know about plant-based baby formula.

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Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Is Pasta Plant-Based? The Delicious (and Healthy) Answer

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 19:24:57 +0000

A lot of people adopting a whole food, plant-based (WFPB) lifestyle wonder whether pasta is off limits, especially because there are so many different types of pasta.

The post Is Pasta Plant-Based? The Delicious (and Healthy) Answer appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Plant-Based Diet for Diabetes: What About Carbs?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 15:26:42 +0000

Carbohydrates are often criticized in very simplistic terms, especially when it comes to diabetes, but does that tell the whole story?

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Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Protein Isolates: Do They Have a Place in a Whole Food, Plant-Based Diet?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 16:59:04 +0000

Science has found a way to turn plants into something impressively meat-like; do these mock meats have a time and place in a whole food, plant-based diet?

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Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Mycotoxins in Food: Should Plant-Based Eaters Worry?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:00:28 +0000

What if the foods we’re eating to keep us healthy are actually harming us? We explain what mycotoxins are, how they can affect us, and outline ways to avoid them.

The post Mycotoxins in Food: Should Plant-Based Eaters Worry? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Is Stevia the Safest Sweetener?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 13:00:08 +0000

Although stevia comes from a plant and is often marketed as healthy and even plant-based, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to this natural sweetener. Make sure you know the pros and cons before you sweeten your next recipe with stevia.

The post Is Stevia the Safest Sweetener? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Autoimmunity and Diet: Is There a Connection?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 13:00:28 +0000

Autoimmune disorders are a fact of life for many, and frustratingly, the causes of autoimmunity are unknown. What research does suggest, though, is that diet can have a negative or a positive effect, and many signs point to the benefits of a whole food diet.

The post Autoimmunity and Diet: Is There a Connection? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Can Using Regenerative Practices Save Agriculture?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Sat, 05 Jun 2021 13:00:26 +0000

The term “regenerative agriculture” may be new to you, but it has a long history. Here we discuss what regenerative agriculture is, whether it’s a realistic process to adopt, as well as its criticisms and benefits.

The post Can Using Regenerative Practices Save Agriculture? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

How to Start a Sustainable At-Home Garden

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Mon, 03 May 2021 13:42:16 +0000

Sustainable gardening is great for the planet and for your health, there’s no doubt about that, but the endeavor can feel a little daunting at first. Have no fear, though: these practical tips will help you acquire green thumb status this growing season!

The post How to Start a Sustainable At-Home Garden appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

How Is Cell-Cultured Meat Changing the Future of Food?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 13:00:57 +0000

Here we take a look at cell-cultured meat and whether it has a place at the table within a healthy diet, including with a whole food, plant-based diet. Although science is getting closer, many consumers and scientists alike remain unconvinced.

The post How Is Cell-Cultured Meat Changing the Future of Food? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Future Food Trends: What Will Plant-Based Diets Look Like?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 18:48:43 +0000

Most people don’t think about what’s on their dinner plate as a technological revolution, but reading about these future food trends will enlighten you.

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Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Collagen Supplements: Does Science Support the Alleged Benefits?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 15:42:31 +0000

What is collagen and are there proven benefits to consuming it? We answer these questions and whether vegan collagen supplements are healthy and effective.

The post Collagen Supplements: Does Science Support the Alleged Benefits? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Reducing Food Waste Across the Supply Chain: Statistics & Strategies

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 14:04:11 +0000

Food waste is a long-term problem, and COVID-19 has only worsened and complicated it. Producers, distributors, retailers, and consumers will all need to improve the supply chain to create an environment and society where food waste is a thing of the past.

The post Reducing Food Waste Across the Supply Chain: Statistics & Strategies appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

How You Can Support a More Sustainable Food System for a Healthier Future

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 14:38:20 +0000

Now more than ever people are seeking out a more sustainable food system, which also happens to be a healthier food system. By following a few guidelines, doing so is likely easier than you think.

The post How You Can Support a More Sustainable Food System for a Healthier Future appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Can Viruses in Meat Really Affect Humans? What You Need to Know

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 15:51:34 +0000

Can meat carry viruses? Many people have begun to ask this question and to take a critical look at the issue of meat-borne diseases.

The post Can Viruses in Meat Really Affect Humans? What You Need to Know appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

What Are FODMAPs, and Should You Be Concerned about Them?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Tue, 19 May 2020 14:56:38 +0000

Eating a whole food, plant-based diet is a healthy choice, but what if it causes pain, bloating, and other unpleasant symptoms? You may have a FODMAP sensitivity. This doesn’t automatically mean you can’t enjoy plant-based foods, though; it may just mean you need to navigate the whole food, plant-based lifestyle a little differently.

The post What Are FODMAPs, and Should You Be Concerned about Them? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

5 Tips for Making Your Home Workout Fun and Sustainable

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 01 May 2020 14:00:13 +0000

Half the battle of working out at home is finding a way to make it something you can stick to. Follow these tips for making your at-home working fun, accessible, and sustainable.

The post 5 Tips for Making Your Home Workout Fun and Sustainable appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

A Whole Food, Plant-Based Approach to Autoimmune Diseases in 4 Steps

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 16:09:16 +0000

Research suggests diet can play a role in the development, strength, and behavior of the immune system. A whole food, plant-based diet in particular may be beneficial in several key areas associated with autoimmunity.

The post A Whole Food, Plant-Based Approach to Autoimmune Diseases in 4 Steps appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

How Does Nutrition Affect the Immune System?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 20:07:36 +0000

What you eat plays a big role in how well your immune system is able to wage war against invading viruses. Here’s what you can do to make sure yours is in top shape and ready for action.

The post How Does Nutrition Affect the Immune System? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Fake Meats – How Do Beyond and Impossible Burgers Stack Up From a Health Perspective?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Sat, 19 Oct 2019 15:00:57 +0000

How do Beyond and Impossible burgers stack up from a health perspective? If your goal is to stick to a whole food, plant-based diet, you might want to take a closer look before sinking your teeth into these beefless patties.

The post Fake Meats – How Do Beyond and Impossible Burgers Stack Up From a Health Perspective? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Thyroid Health & Plant-Based Diets – Your Questions Answered

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 04 Oct 2019 17:42:26 +0000

There are many factors at play in the development of thyroid disease. Evidence suggests a plant-based diet may be able to help prevent problems and manage existing imbalances.

The post Thyroid Health & Plant-Based Diets – Your Questions Answered appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Soy Myths vs Facts: Is Soy Healthy or Not?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 16:12:22 +0000

Is soy dangerous or beneficial? Many people are still uncertain whether this plant-based protein has benefits or is a threat to long-term health. The confusion has given rise to numerous conflicting reports about how soy affects the body.

The post Soy Myths vs Facts: Is Soy Healthy or Not? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

3-Day Whole Food, Plant-Based Meal Plan

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 19:33:39 +0000

Need some inspiration to jump-start your foray into a plant-based lifestyle? This easy whole food, plant-based meal plan has some tasty recipes to whet your appetite.

The post 3-Day Whole Food, Plant-Based Meal Plan appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Why Your Microbiome May Be to Blame for Your Bloating – 5 Tips for Gut Balance

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 16:00:01 +0000

The wrong food choices can lead to the wrong type of bacteria flourishing in your gut, resulting in a wide range of health problems. A whole food, plant-based diet can turn your gut health around, which can have dramatic, positive effects on the health of all your other systems.

The post Why Your Microbiome May Be to Blame for Your Bloating – 5 Tips for Gut Balance appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Iodine on a Plant-Based Diet: Why Is it Important & How to Get Enough

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 17:36:33 +0000

While essential to human health, iodine can often be in short supply for people following a low-sodium, whole food, plant-based diet. On the other hand, consuming too much iodine can be just as bad. In this article, we’ll look at why iodine matters and discuss some easy ways to make sure you’re meeting your daily requirement without overdoing it.

The post Iodine on a Plant-Based Diet: Why Is it Important & How to Get Enough appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

The Fiber Dilemma – Eating Plant-Based Without Tummy Trouble

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 31 May 2019 13:08:21 +0000

Fiber is essential for digestive wellness and performs other health-promoting functions. Switching from a low-fiber, standard American diet to a plant-based diet naturally high in fiber can cause some uncomfortable problems. Minimize those problems with these simple steps.

The post The Fiber Dilemma – Eating Plant-Based Without Tummy Trouble appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Unpacking the Science of Lectins – Are They Good or Bad?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 17 May 2019 20:32:09 +0000

Discussions in the continuing debate over dietary lectins often lack details regarding what these proteins are and how they work. Taking a closer look at lectins will shed some light on what purpose they serve in the human body.

The post Unpacking the Science of Lectins – Are They Good or Bad? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Go From Underweight to Healthy Weight With These Plant-Based Tips

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 16 May 2019 13:23:57 +0000

Are you losing too much weight on a vegan diet? Or would you like to gain weight? Here are simple strategies for gaining weight on a whole food, plant-based diet.

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Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Too Busy to Cook? These 3 Tips Make Plant-Based Meal Prep a Breeze!

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 18:58:58 +0000

Switching to a whole food, plant-based lifestyle usually means cooking most of your own meals, but it doesn’t require spending half your life in the kitchen. This is one of the biggest myths about healthy diets.

The post Too Busy to Cook? These 3 Tips Make Plant-Based Meal Prep a Breeze! appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

What Are Lectins? A Look at This Controversial Protein

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 12:57:46 +0000

Lectins are all the rage—or are they? Brought to the public’s attention by Dr. Gundry’s book, The Plant Paradox, and subsequently demonized by dieters and promoters of lectin-free health regimens, lectins represent the latest point of contention in the ongoing healthy food debate.

The post What Are Lectins? A Look at This Controversial Protein appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Why Stress Can Make You Overeat and How to Stop It

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 20:46:11 +0000

If you respond to stress by eating, you’re not alone. Chronic stress has become an epidemic in the U.S. Learn more about the dangers of stress eating and how to avoid it using these three tips.

The post Why Stress Can Make You Overeat and How to Stop It appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Is Your Plant-Based Diet the Reason You’re Underweight?

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 18:15:32 +0000

Weight loss is touted as one of the biggest benefits of switching to a plant-based diet. But what if you’re already at a healthy weight and find the pounds dropping off?

The post Is Your Plant-Based Diet the Reason You’re Underweight? appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.

Does Your Colon Need a Tune-Up? A Simple Solution for Better Gut Health

Theresa “Sam” Houghton — Thu, 02 Nov 2017 20:41:42 +0000

Americans make 104 million visits to the doctor yearly due to poor digestion. When your gut isn’t working right, it is hard to ignore the turmoil!

The post Does Your Colon Need a Tune-Up? A Simple Solution for Better Gut Health appeared first on Center for Nutrition Studies.

Written by Theresa “Sam” Houghton.