Green beans, also known as string beans or snap beans, are a popular side dish at Thanksgiving and a nutritious addition to your diet, offering multiple health benefits. According to registered dietitians Amanda Sauceda and Michelle Routhenstein, they support heart health by providing potassium and magnesium, improve digestion with fiber and prebiotics, strengthen bones with vitamin K, and boost the immune system with antioxidants like vitamin C. Green beans are versatile in preparation, whether steamed, roasted or eaten raw, and are a cost-effective way to increase nutrient intake.

A pescatarian diet, which includes fish and seafood alongside plant-based foods, may offer several health benefits such as improved heart health and metabolic health, writes registered dietitian Jennifer Lefton. The diet emphasizes lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids from fish, which are linked to reduced cardiovascular risks and potential anti-inflammatory effects. However, individuals need to monitor nutrient intake like iron, zinc and vitamin B12, and avoid high-mercury fish for a balanced diet.

Quinoa and couscous are both popular grains often used in salads and side dishes, but they offer different nutritional benefits, say registered dietitian nutritionist Vanessa Imus and RD Anar Allidina. Quinoa is a complete protein, offering fiber and micronutrients like magnesium and iron, making it a good option for vegetarians and those with gluten sensitivities. Couscous, on the other hand, is a quick-cooking grain that provides selenium and B vitamins, though it contains gluten.

Survey data presented by Nigel Denby, a registered dietitian, at the Menopause Society's annual meeting showed that 94% of perimenopausal and menopausal women experienced digestive health issues. Bloating, constipation, stomach pain and acid reflux were common and about half of participants sought professional help.

The US obesity rate has dropped to 37% from 39.9% three years ago, driven by increased use of injectable drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, according to a Gallup survey. However, access to these medications remains a challenge, as many insurers plan to stop coverage next year, potentially increasing out-of-pocket costs for patients.

A global study of more than 17,000 adults found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, reduced the risk of heart attack or stroke by 20%, even among those who lost little or no weight. The findings, published in The Lancet, showed that smaller waistlines were linked to heart benefits, but about two-thirds of the drug's cardiovascular protection appeared to come from mechanisms beyond weight loss alone.

A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggested that longer walks are more beneficial for heart health than shorter ones. Researchers found that walking 15 minutes or more, rather than doing multiple shorter walks, was associated with lower risks of heart disease and mortality over nearly a decade. The study involved 33,560 adults with a median age of 62.

A study in JAMA Network Open suggests sleeping in total darkness may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Participants exposed to the brightest light at night had a significantly higher risk of heart failure, coronary artery disease and stroke. The study tracked nearly 89,000 people using wrist wearables to monitor light exposure.