7 Things Athletes Shouldn’t Eat Before a Game But Often Do

Fried and Greasy Foods: A Recipe for Sluggishness Fried and Greasy Foods: A Recipe for Sluggishness (image credits: flickr) Fried foods like french fries, onion rings, and chicken wings are incredibly tempting, especially when nerves are high before a game. Unfortunately, these high-fat options can make athletes feel sluggish and heavy right when they need to be light on their feet. Research featured in the Journal of Sports Nutrition in 2024 pointed out that greasy meals before intense activity are a recipe for discomfort, leading to acid reflux and bloating. Nutritionist Dr. Emily Harper explains, “Fats take longer to break … Read more

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7 Clues You’re Missing Out on Deep Sleep—And Foods That Can Help

Frequent Nighttime Awakenings Frequent Nighttime Awakenings (image credits: unsplash) Waking up multiple times in the middle of the night isn’t just annoying—it’s a red flag that your body might be missing out on deep, restorative sleep. The National Sleep Foundation says adults should spend a good chunk of their 7–9 recommended hours in deep sleep, but constant awakenings can cut that short. If you’re groggy and cranky in the morning, these interruptions could be why. Experts in 2024 have noted that stress, caffeine, and even blue light from screens are common triggers for restless nights. Almonds and spinach, which are … Read more

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9 Top Foods That Help Clear Blocked Arteries

Fatty Fish Fatty Fish (image credits: unsplash) Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines have made waves in the nutrition world for their heart-protective powers. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, these fish help reduce inflammation inside the arteries—a major culprit behind dangerous blockages. According to a 2024 study in the Journal of Nutrition, eating fatty fish as little as twice a week can cut your heart disease risk by a jaw-dropping margin. The American Heart Association still stands firm on recommending these fish for a reason: they help lower triglycerides, regulate heart rhythms, and support the overall function of blood … Read more

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Ranking the Healthiest Nuts Americans Commonly Eat—Worst to First

10. Macadamia Nuts: The Richest in Calories 10. Macadamia Nuts: The Richest in Calories (image credits: wikimedia) Macadamia nuts have become a favorite among foodies for their buttery texture and decadent flavor, but when you look at their nutrition profile, the story changes. Packing about 204 calories in just a one-ounce serving, they are the most calorie-dense nut in this ranking. While macadamias are loaded with monounsaturated fats, which are good for your heart, their high calorie count can quickly add up, especially if you snack mindlessly. Nutritionists warn that the low protein content in macadamias—just around 2 grams per … Read more

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4 Grocery Store Items Americans Swear By—and 3 That Are Collecting Dust

If you want to know the secret to the American grocery cart, it’s not what you’d expect. Forget about fancy, hard-to-find ingredients or obscure health foods. Instead, everyday shoppers are fiercely loyal to a handful of humble items—while others are left abandoned on the shelves, gathering dust like forgotten treasures in an attic. What is it about certain foods that make them irresistible, while others are practically invisible? The answer might surprise you, and it might even spark a sudden craving—or have you laughing at what’s hiding in the back of your own pantry. Avocados: The Creamy Green Obsession Avocados: … Read more

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11 Foods That Seem High in Protein—But Actually Aren’t

Peanut Butter Peanut Butter (image credits: unsplash) Peanut butter is often marketed as a protein powerhouse, especially for people looking for plant-based options. But the truth is, two tablespoons of peanut butter contain about 7 grams of protein—far less than most people expect. The real kicker is that peanut butter packs in a lot more fat and calories than protein. According to the USDA Food Database, most of its calories come from fat, not protein, making it a less efficient protein source than lean meats or legumes. Many people use peanut butter thinking it’s a substitute for chicken or eggs, … Read more

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The 11 Healthiest Snacks That Don’t Taste Boring

Greek Yogurt with Fresh Berries Greek Yogurt with Fresh Berries (image credits: pixabay) Greek yogurt mixed with berries is a snack that feels almost like dessert, but it packs a serious health punch. According to a 2024 report from the Harvard School of Public Health, Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, while berries add antioxidants and fiber. This combo has been shown to support gut health and help balance blood sugar. The creamy texture of yogurt paired with the juicy pop of berries is anything but boring. A serving can offer up to 15 grams of protein and … Read more

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The Best and Worst Foods to Eat Before a Workout, Ranked

Complex Carbohydrates: The Ultimate Fuel for Performance Complex Carbohydrates: The Ultimate Fuel for Performance (image credits: pixabay) Ever wonder why marathon runners swear by their pre-race pasta meals? Complex carbohydrates like oatmeal, brown rice, and whole-grain bread aren’t just filling—they’re your workout’s best friend. These foods provide sustained energy because they take longer to digest and provide more sustained energy, delivering a steady stream of glucose to your muscles over time. According to a public survey, about 25% of consumers in the United States who work out at least once a month say that exercise, workouts, or sports are part … Read more

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8 Items You Shouldn’t Microwave—Though People Still Do

Hard-Boiled Eggs Still in Their Shells Hard-Boiled Eggs Still in Their Shells (image credits: pixabay) Think twice before tossing that leftover hard-boiled egg into the microwave for a quick warm-up. Whether in the shell or peeled, hard boiled eggs heated in the microwave release steam. The steam cannot escape the whites, so pressure builds. When you cut (or worse, bite) into the egg, the steam is released instantly. The resulting explosion may burn you. It’s basically like creating a tiny pressure cooker that’s waiting to explode. Exposure to high levels of microwaves can cause a painful burn. Two areas of … Read more

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Low-Carb Fruits, Ranked From Worst to Best for Your Diet

Bananas: The High-Sugar Culprit Bananas: The High-Sugar Culprit (image credits: unsplash) Bananas are a beloved snack for many, but if you’re watching your carb intake, they’re not your best friend. A medium banana packs around 27 grams of carbohydrates, most of which come from natural sugars like glucose and fructose. According to the USDA, this is one of the highest carb counts among common fruits. For anyone following a strict low-carb or ketogenic diet, even a single banana could push you over your daily limit. Some nutritionists warn that the high glycemic index of bananas can cause blood sugar spikes, … Read more

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