What is it: HPMC is a chemically modified cellulose polymer that is off-white in color and considered safe for human consumption. It is most commonly used as an alternative to gelatin and gluten in vegan-friendly products. Common uses: Alternative to…
Is Vitamin D2 or D3 Better for Human Health?
Vitamin D refers to a group of 5 similarly structured vitamers–compounds with generally similar structures that show biological activity–the most important of which (for human health) are plant-produced vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and endogenously-synthesized vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Related: Vitamin D Production,…
Do Artificial Sweeteners Cause–Not Cure–Glucose Intolerance?
The big nutrition scare last week was the study in “Nature” finding that in mice and, maybe, humans, artificial sweeteners mess up the microbiome and make some people even more intolerant of glucose. The authors conclude that their results call…
8 Health Benefits of Strength Training for Women
Gender Barriers Strength training is a type of exercise that involves combatting external resistance (e.g. lifting weights) to build muscles. Typically, the number of male weightlifters will significantly outnumber the number of female weightlifters at the gym. Many women hesitate…
Hold the Sugar: Understanding the Sugar Content of Popular Beverages
Ever wonder how much sugar a typical Grande White Chocolate Mocha from Starbucks has? Or even a seemingly healthy Mango-A-Go-Go smoothie from Jamba Juice? These amounts are often larger than expected. Find out below: Infographic: Demah Alsinan Cola Nutrition Facts…
Whole Foods’ Class Action Lawsuit
Whole Foods’ Lawsuit Regarding Sugar Amount in Yogurt Whole Foods Market Inc. recently found itself in a lawsuit regarding the sugar content in their store brand 365 Everyday Value Plain Greek yogurt. The class-action lawsuit, which was filed in early…
Do You Know What’s Inside Supplement Capsules?
Most consumers know what supplements they are buying, but the ingredients of the capsule containing the supplement is often overlooked or unknown. Below are some of the main ingredients found in gelatin and vegetarian capsules. Gelatin What is it: Gelatin…
Timing Probiotic Supplement Intake
Probiotics are the “good” bacteria meant to re-establish intestinal floral balance by repopulating beneficial bacteria and keeping the growth of “bad” bacteria in check. Long-term antibiotic use and/or immunosuppressive therapy are known to significantly alter the gut’s floral composition and…
Nutritional Supplements That Boost Brain Activity
Have you ever wondered if it would be possible to hack your way to an enhanced state of awareness and improved memory, cognition, and concentration with a single pill? While an exact replica of the Limitless pill may not exist,…
A Guide to Understanding Food Labels
Consumers will often rely on food labels to navigate their local grocery stores and make informed purchasing decisions. However, product labels can be very confusing; this is due, at least in part, to oft-used and ill-defined phrases that include Organic,…