Dr. Ann

Popeye loved his spinach and his Olive Oil and you should too. In a study including 30,000 Italian women followed for about 8 years, those who reported eating at least 1 serving of dark leafy greens a day were 46% less likely to develop heart disease versus those who ate two or less servings a […]

  For those who enjoy the enhanced flavor marinating meats imparts, this study gives us an additional reason to engage in this culinary practice – much safer food. In line with other studies, researchers found that marinating meats prior to cooking at high temperatures dramatically reduces the formation of a class of cancer-causing compounds known […]

Of all the things you could do to improve your health and quality of life, eating a healthy diet is right at the top of the list. In fact, I do not know of any other strategy in all of modern day health and biomedical science (except possibly exercise) that comes close to providing the […]

Thankfully, an enormous body of solid science supports that there are a variety of eating styles from vegan to Mediterranean to omnivorous that can lead to optimal health. That is, if the following two ESSENTIAL features are regularly adhered to: Eating unprocessed or minimally processed real foods that are as close as possible to their natural state. Eating predominately […]

In an intriguing scientific twist that really grabbed my attention, scientists have uncovered new insight on how the “type of calories” we eat – in this case protein vs. carbs – can have totally different effects on special brain cells involved in wakefulness and metabolism. Housed in our brains are specialized neurons called orexin cells. […]

Berries are low in calories, high in fiber, loaded with phytochemicals, and totally adaptable—they can be eaten fresh or frozen, tossed into salads, smoothies, yogurt, cereal, cottage cheese, or eaten alone. And, if you are wondering why I am so fond of this fruit – read on!     Raspberries are packed with more fiber […]

Dark chocolate is a treat you can indulge in and feel great about. In fact, dark chocolate may be the very best reminder that eating healthy can taste great too. Here is my advice for best results: Choose the highest percentage cacao that your palate will accept. The higher the cacao, the more antioxidants and […]

All varieties of nuts are off-the-charts great for you, but walnuts deserve especially enthusiastic praise. In fact, this remarkable nut is so special it is always available in my kitchen. Here are 6 compelling reasons to join me in including walnuts in your diet regularly: 1.Walnuts are one of the few foods and the only nut […]

Many Americans do not achieve optimal levels of dietary potassium. Here are my top strategies for boosting your intake of this critical nutrient. Include beans in your diet each day. Consume plain non-fat or low-fat yogurt in your diet each day. Use tomato sauce or paste (low sodium) regularly in your recipes and dishes. Snack […]

In the largest and most rigorously conducted study to date, organic foods came out on top. This new evaluation included an unprecedented 343 peer-reviewed publications comparing the nutritional quality and safety of fruits, vegetables, and grains grown in organic vs. conventional conditions. The researchers noted three very clear areas of superiority for the organic crops […]

All vegetables have something beneficial to offer the body, but dark leafy greens and cruciferous veggies tend to always shine most brightly in the studies. Make a point to include a serving from both of these stellar veggie groups in your diet each day.  

Brown rice is a classic example of a physically intact whole grain and a far superior choice than white rice.  Unlike its refined white counterpart, brown rice contains the full package of wholesome nutrition Mother Nature intended for us, and will not spike up your blood sugar level.  The refining process that turns brown rice […]