Acai berries, known for their dense nutrient profile, offer numerous health benefits including possible protection against chronic illnesses, cholesterol reduction, brain health support and digestive aid. Registered dietitian Julia Zumpano highlights their powerful antioxidant content, which helps guard against free radicals and chronic diseases. Fresh acai berries spoil quickly, so they are often available in juice, powder, or frozen forms. "You can reap the benefits from all forms of acai berries, just be sure there are no added sugars, sweeteners or fillers," says Zumpano.

Individuals who added Greek yogurt to their daily diet reported significant health improvements, including weight loss, increased energy and better digestion. Suzanne Andrews and Joy Grout experienced weight reduction and sustained energy levels and satiety, respectively, while Jeremy Gurewitz noted enhanced gut health. Registered dietitian nutritionist Mary Sabat emphasizes Greek yogurt's role in supporting muscle growth and reducing belly fat due to its protein and probiotic content. "Look for unsweetened versions with live cultures," Sabat says.

For the first time, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee recommends prioritizing plant-based protein over animal sources, including traditionally healthful options like chicken and fish. Beans, peas and lentils are now suggested as top protein choices, while red meat is placed at the bottom of the list. "Based on our research, most people should aim to get about a third of their protein from plants, and older adults and those at high risk of heart disease should aim for closer to 50 percent," registered dietitian Andrea Glenn says.

A study to be presented next month at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes's annual meeting found that more than 75% of people who were at risk for Type 2 diabetes lived with another person who had diabetes or carried risk factors for it. Researchers noted that almost 30,000 adults with Type 2 diabetes lived in the same household as an adult with prediabetes.

Teenagers with food allergies experience significant social discomfort, particularly those with multiple, according to a study in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. The study found that 35% of teens with food allergies fear dining with adults other than their parents, and many are anxious about eating at school or camp, highlighting the need for mental health support and coping strategies in allergy management.

Elevance Health is expanding a food as medicine program to Medicaid members through a partnership with the National Association of Community Health Centers. This initiative will train primary care teams to provide personalized nutrition support, including medically tailored interventions and coaching, with a focus on telehealth to increase access. The partners aim to establish a Nutrition Center of Excellence as a model for food-as-medicine care.

Mount Sinai Hospital has partnered with the Real Dads Network in an initiative to offer free heart health screenings for Black men in New York City. The partnership aims to detect heart conditions early and encourages Black men to prioritize their health. Dr. Icilma Fergus from Mount Sinai Hospital explains the role of social and structural determinants of health, such as food deserts and access to health care, in contributing to cardiovascular health disparities.

The HelloFresh recipe development process for the ReFresh menu began with customer insights from the State of Home Cooking report, guiding the team to prioritize convenience, variety, and health. Executive Chef Kristin Bryan and her team experimented with new flavor profiles, such as "swicy" and "swalty," and incorporated feedback to diversify recipes. Registered dietitians were involved to ensure meals met specific nutritional standards, including high-protein and low-calorie options. Extensive recipe testing and iteration were key steps before finalizing the new lineup.

The Alabama State Department of Education is considering changes to hiring requirements for Child Nutrition Program directors in districts that have fewer than 2,500 students. The aim is to make it easier for smaller districts to hire directors. The proposed changes would require candidates to have a high school diploma, three years' experience in food service management, state-approved training and a level four SNA certificate.

Middle Eastern in origin, savory-stuffed pancakes called murtabak are meant to be eaten similar to the South American empanada. For convenience, in this recipe, the meat mixture is "stuffed" in whole-wheat tortillas instead of homemade dough. eatright.org

Fully updated, this edition of the authoritative reference guide on infant and pediatric feedings addresses the most up-to-date information on human milk and formula storage, handling, and preparation techniques. Learn More