Eating for Happiness

Happiness centers around several important neurotransmitters: serotonin, dopamaine, endorphins, phenylethylamine, and anandamide. Serotonin is popularly known as the “feel-good hormone,” or your body’s own natural tranquilizer, hence the happiness factor. This is the neurotransmitter that antidepressants target in order to boost overall happiness levels. Up to 90 percent of your body’s total serotonin is located in your gut, […]

Understanding ANDI Scores

The Aggregate Nutrient Density Index (ANDI) score, developed by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, measures calcium; the carotenoids beta carotene, alpha carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene; fiber; folate; glucosinolates; iron; magnesium; niacin; selenium; vitamins B1 (thiamine),  B2 (riboflavin), B6, B12, C, and E; and zinc, plus the antioxidant capacity. Since the original calculation of the ANDI scores, […]

Steel-cut oats with blueberries, flax seeds, and grated brazil nut

Counting on Carbohydrates

Most carbohydrates contain four Calories per gram. They can be simple or complex, depending on the number of sugar units they contain. Simple carbohydrates (sugars) contain one sugar unit, while complex carbohydrates (starches and fiber) contain three or more. Simple sugars are absorbed quickly, and raise blood sugar levels rapidly. This spike in blood sugar […]