In order to improve the texture and shelf life of granular and powdered food products, such as protein powders and seasonings, anti-caking additives are often used. One such additive is silicon dioxide, which the ability to help prevent ingredients from becoming moist and clumping together. What is silicon dioxide exactly, and is it safe? Also…
Dandelion greens may seem like little more than a common weed, sprouting up on lawns across the country as one of the first signs of spring. But did you know that this familiar plant actually doubles as a medicinal herb and versatile ingredient that's packed with health benefits? Besides bringing a pop of flavor and…
Few packaged and portable snacks are a good source of natural fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like iron and potassium. Dried fruits, like sultanas and raisins, are one exception to this rule. Sultanas are sometimes called "golden raisins" because they have a yellow, golden color. They get their color from the seedless, white-fleshed grapes that…
In the U.S., approximately 1 to 2 percent (or more) of the population has a peanut allergy — about 3 million people — a percentage that continues to rise. In the past two decades, the prevalence of peanut allergies has more than quadrupled, up from 0.4 percent of the U.S. population in 1997 to…
Although it may be most well-known as a star ingredient of Italian wedding soup, escarole lettuce is a nutritious bitter green that makes an awesome addition to raw and cooked dishes alike. In addition to being delicious and easy to enjoy, this leafy green also boasts a similar set of nutrients and health benefits to…
C-reactive protein (CRP) levels increase and decrease depending on how much inflammation you're experiencing at any given time. Inflammation is defined as "Redness, swelling, pain, and/or a feeling of heat in an area of the body. This is a protective reaction to injury, disease, or irritation of the tissues." When you aren't sick or injured, it's…
Have you ever ingested phosphoric acid? Most likely, yes — so what is it? This type of acid is used as a rust inhibitor, a dental and industrial etchant, fertilizer feedstock, and as an ingredient in home cleaning products. So wait — why on earth would you have consumed such a thing? Because it's also commonly added…
You probably know that plastics are a huge source of environmental pollution, but it may be surprising to find out that microplastics are now detected in the air, the seafood we eat and even in our bodies. Microplastics are both tiny (smaller than 5 millimeters in size) and toxic. These tiny particles are hiding in…
Fructose is one of the most controversial forms of sugar available. With more and more research emerging claiming it could contribute to obesity, heart disease and liver problems, many have even called for it to be banned or restricted in some parts of the world. Believe it or not, this type of sugar is likely…
All of the vitamins and minerals we eat, plus all of the hormones our bodies produce, need enzymes in order to work properly. Additionally, enzymes, such as proteolytic enzymes, regulate metabolic functions and assist in maintaining our stamina and energy levels. Proteolytic enzymes are the type that specifically aid in the digestion process. They help…
