Macronutrients

THE BASICS: Where Do I Get My Protein? (And, Incidentally, My Fiber?)

March 14, 2025 |

This is without a doubt the most common question asked about plant-based diets….and no wonder.  Protein bars and drinks are available everywhere, advertised to provide boosts in protein that are touted to prevent fatigue and provide energy for exercise, to help recover from a workout and to rebuild damaged muscle fibers.  The disquieting thing is…

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Does the Source of Your Protein Matter?

February 28, 2025 |

Proteins are essential for a vast array of functions in living organisms.  They provide structure for cells.  They allow muscles to contract.  They are a part of our skin and our connective tissues. Antibodies, a feature of our immune system that protects us from diseases, are proteins.  The hemoglobin that transports oxygen in our blood…

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Is Olive Oil an Indispensable Part of a Mediterranean Diet?

August 30, 2024 |

Plant-based diets, including the Mediterranean diet, are leading the pack in the popularity of healthy diets.  There is, however, continuing debate about which aspects of a Mediterranean diet are the most important.  Is it the olive oil that is mainly responsible for the heart health benefits of the Mediterranean diet for health?   ABOUT HEALTH…

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The Effect of a “Keto-Like” Diet on Heart Disease

July 21, 2023 |

A large portion of the population of the developed world is now overweight or obese.  A survey from January 2020 showed that 69% of Canadians surveyed had tried the keto diet for weight loss.  Another 48% were considering adopting a keto diet to improve their health. (1)  Keto diets, consisting of low amounts of carbohydrates…

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What’s the Best Protein for Building Muscle?

July 8, 2023 |

It has already been established that muscle building in humans is augmented by eating a high-protein diet.  However, there is an ongoing debate within fitness circles about whether plant-sourced protein is as good at creating muscle as protein sourced from animals.  A recently published study investigated this very question. In February 2023 results were published…

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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.