Macronutrients

Easing Into Eating More Fiber

September 11, 2020 |

There is no doubt that fiber is a healthy nutrient. Our gut microorganisms can extract energy and nutrients from dietary fiber and produce the short-chain fatty acids that have been linked to many health benefits. For example (1,2)… Reduced risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and hypertension (high blood pressure) Reduced risk of diabetes Reduced…

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Red and Processed Meat…To Eat or Not To Eat

June 5, 2020 |

A group of prominent researchers from Harvard University has recently weighed in on the issue of the health effects of eating red and processed meat. To date, dietary guidelines issued by many countries and health-oriented associations recommend lowering consumption of red and processed meats for optimal health. However, in late 2019, an analysis from a…

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True or False: It’s Okay to Eat Red and Processed Meat

November 22, 2019 |

A surprising meta-analysis was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine last month stating that it’s okay to keep eating red and processed meat (1). Given the wealth of research that points out the many health benefits of reducing or eliminating meat from the diet, the conclusion of this study is puzzling to say the…

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Weighing in on Olive Oil

November 8, 2019 |

Olive oil is often praised as the paragon of oils and an essential part of a healthy diet. Upon examination of the evidence however it becomes clear that eating olive oil is not the way to optimal health.   The Basics of Olive Oil Olive oil is not a whole food. It is a processed,…

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The Dairy Dilemma: Part 4: Animal Protein

July 5, 2019 |

Protein from your diet is not all the same. Humans obtain protein through eating both animal-sourced foods and plant-sourced foods. The proteins from these differing sources vary in the amino acids that are their building blocks. Animal proteins, being very similar to our own proteins, are readily and rapidly available for use by human bodies.…

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Promoting a healthy adventurous lifestyle powered by plants and the strength of scientific evidence.

My name is Debra Harley (BScPhm) and I welcome you to my retirement project, this website. Over the course of a life many lessons are learned, altering deeply-rooted ideas and creating new passions.