To be very clear, fostering a healthy gut is not just about improving digestion and avoiding tummy aches. Establishing a diverse microbiome can enhance immune function and even support your mood. Sure, the food you eat influences gut health, but the drinks you consume play a bigger role than you think. Sugar-sweetened sodas and juices, alcoholic beverages, and coffee with more creamer than coffee can all wreck your gut. Instead, focus on creating a happier, healthier microbiome with the beverages in this article. 

Kombucha

This fermented beverage is more than a fizzy health trend. Kombucha contains live probiotics that can help improve gut microbiome. It is also rich in antioxidants, which work to combat inflammation. Kombucha’s gut-improving benefits stem from its fermentation and probiotics. Fermentation creates fatty acids, which work to reduce inflammation and aid the production of enzymes and B-vitamins, which help enhance immune function.

Jun

We remain on the fermented beverage train with this healthy option made with green tea and raw honey. It contains living probiotics that help support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. Unlike kombucha, Jun tastes a little gentler and is softer on the digestive system, primarily because of its lower acidity and honey-based fermentation. The probiotics in Jun work to repopulate healthy bacteria, while the green tea contains antioxidants that reduce gut inflammation.

Kefir

The third and final fermented drink on this list is kefir, a fermented dairy product made by two types of fermentation. The first method is lactic acid fermentation via the fermentation of milk sugar known as lactose. The second method is alcoholic fermentation done by the fermentation of yeast via kefir grains. The fermentation process creates bioactive compounds, including organic acids, peptides, and kefiran. Research notes that these compounds contribute to kefir’s ability to fight harmful bacteria in the gut. 

Ginger Tea

Supporting gut health by stimulating digestion and promoting motility, ginger tea may encourage daily bowel movements. Add some fresh ginger root to a mug and pour hot water over it. That’s it! You can sweeten it with raw honey, agave nectar, or stevia for a better taste. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory and carminative properties work to soothe the digestive tract and reduce bloating. That’s why it is an excellent option for gut health!

Peppermint Tea

Just like ginger tea, peppermint tea is a wonderful beverage for your gut. Research shows that peppermint tea can help relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal system. It may also help reduce bloating, indigestion, and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The refreshing flavor of peppermint makes it a great post-meal drink to soothe the stomach and keep you feeling light as you get ready for bed. 

Prune Juice

According to nutritional data, one serving of 100% prune juice contains four grams of fiber, which is necessary for optimal digestive health. Several studies indicate that drinking prune juice can help relieve constipation naturally, due to the fiber and sorbitol. 

Beet Juice

Researchers note that beets boost blood flow, especially to the digestive tract, because they are rich in nitrates. Not only does increased circulation to the gut promote healthy digestion, but it also helps relieve sluggish bowels and may even reduce gut inflammation. Beets also contain fiber, polyphenols, and compounds such as betaine, which has been linked to improved liver function and digestion. If you don’t like the earthy flavor of beets, you can add in some fresh orange, carrot, or apple juice to make it more palatable.

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If you understand flavors, you know that you cannot go wrong with the combination of lemon and basil. You typically see those two ingredients in a classic pesto recipe, but they work in salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and even this hummus. Because hummus is incredibly versatile, you can doctor it up to create a unique and memorable dip. You can enjoy hummus with pita chips, vegetable sticks, or as a spread on a sandwich. With so many flavor combinations, the hummus possibilities are endless!

Some of you might be wondering, “Why can’t I just buy hummus in the store? There are so many options that I enjoy.” Well, there is nothing better than making your own food. Secondly, hummus is a very easy dip to make and you know exactly what goes into it when you make it yourself. There are no added sugars, excess sodium, preservatives, or other ingredients that you cannot pronounce. Plus, you can whip up this batch of lemon basil hummus in about 10 minutes…and that includes prep time!

As with any hummus, you need chickpeas, which are naturally rich in protein and fiber, two nutrients that help keep you from unnecessary eating between meals. According to research, protein and fiber work together to slow digestion, a process that promotes feelings of fullness. Additionally, protein may increase levels of hormones in the body that reduce appetite. In fact, the filling effects of protein and fiber in chickpeas may help you reduce your total caloric intake.

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The last thing you want to be after enjoying a full meal is hungry. You should feel content and satiated post-meal. What we mean by this is that you should not have a growling stomach or low energy levels that typically indicate that you need to eat. If you want to indulge in a little dessert after a meal, that is something completely different, as that refers to appetite. We are talking about hunger!

The hunger you experience between meals and snacks typically means that you are not eating enough of the right foods. What do these foods have that others don’t? Focus on foods that are naturally rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Don’t know where to start or what to incorporate into your meals in order to stay full between meals? Continue reading to learn more about them. 

Potatoes

Potatoes have a high water content and lower energy density when compared to other carbs like pasta or rice. That means that you can eat a bigger portion to enjoy the same amount of carbs. Potatoes also contain resistant starch, which is a type of carb that helps slow the digestive process. Here’s a pro tip: cook and then chill your potatoes for several hours before eating to increase the resistant starch content.

Greek Yogurt

Offering a combination of protein and fat, plain Greek yogurt works to slow gastric emptying. Basically, that means that it slows the emptying of the stomach, which helps keep you fuller for longer. Additionally, yogurt helps maintain blood sugar levels, reducing your urge to snack between meals. Try to begin your day with a filling yogurt bowl that contains some chopped nuts, mixed berries, and just a drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar. 

Avocado

Rich in monounsaturated fats and fiber, avocados are excellent foods to help you maintain feelings of fullness. The healthy fats work to slow digestion, while the fiber (about 13 grams in one avocado) helps keep blood sugar stable, which reduces the likelihood of sudden hunger or energy crashes. According to research, eating one whole avocado per day can help improve cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and help you make healthier food choices throughout the day. 

Quinoa

Although technically a seed, quinoa is typically associated with grains. The reason for this is because its nutritional properties are more similar to grains than seeds. No matter how you categorize quinoa, one thing remains: it is an excellent source of protein. In fact, quinoa provides all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. Additionally, quinoa is high in fiber, which helps increase feelings of fullness and reduces your desire to eat unnecessarily. 

Legumes

Beans, peas, lentils, and peanuts (yes, they are technically legumes, not nuts) exhibit impressive nutritional profiles. Notoriously, legumes are great sources of fiber and plant-based protein, yet they have low energy density. That means that you feel quite full after eating a serving of legumes. An older article reviewed nine randomized trials that examined post-meal fullness from pulses, which belong to the legume family. The results indicated that participants were 31% more full from eating pulses compared with eating meals without pulses that contained the same amount of calories. 

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Some energy balls are just more delicious and nutritious than other recipes, and this is one of those recipes. It combines the natural sweetness of dried apricots and Medjool dates with the rich, creamy texture of Brazil nuts. You make these bite-sized treats by blending the ingredients into a sticky paste. This takes some time and you’ll have to scrape down the sides of the processor to ensure everything is fully incorporated. Using your hands, roll that sticky mixture into bite-size balls, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking. They are also great little pick-me-up snacks to boost your energy levels during long days.

The apricots provide a natural source of antioxidants, including vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber, which increases feelings of fullness, helps stabilize blood sugar, and supports digestion. Brazil nuts are known for their high selenium content, an essential mineral that benefits thyroid function and exhibits antioxidant potential. Together, all of these ingredients create a nutritious and delectable snack that helps you sustain energy keep you full between meals. Whether you are an athlete, busy professional, or anyone seeking a wholesome treat, these energy balls are for you!

These energy balls are also versatile and customizable. If you want to enhance their flavor with raw vegan additions like cinnamon powder, ground nutmeg, or a sprinkle of chia seeds, then go for it. The prep work is minimal because all you need to do is pulse in the food processor and roll. Freeze them immediately after rolling to accelerate the hardening time. The quicker they firm up, the sooner you get to eat them!

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Welcome to the snack that is as charming as it is chewable. These little green dehydrated slices of kiwi pack a somewhat sour and flavorful punch. Think of dehydrated kiwi like the healthier, tropical, sweet, and tangy version of those unhealthy sour candies with artificial dyes and preservatives. Not only is this snack conveniently portable, but it is also loaded with beneficial nutrients, which we’ll discuss in this description. If you love fresh kiwi, then you will love this snack, which is great for hikes or any sort of travel. They’re perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but want to avoid the guilt of indulging in candy or processed snacks.

Beyond the delightful taste, provide a lot of vitamin C, which helps to give your immune system a boost to fend off foreign invaders in the body. Kiwis also offer a healthy dose of dietary fiber, which works to aid digestion and promote feelings of fullness, helping to curb those unhealthy snack cravings. Rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols, kiwis work to combat oxidative stress and may even contribute to healthier aging, specifically on a cellular level. Plus, kiwis contain potassium, which is not only beneficial for maintaining proper muscle function, but also for keeping your blood pressure in check.

Add these dehydrated kiwis to your diet for the healthy perks and to elevate your snack game with a touch of tropical flair. Believe it or not, these dehydrated kiwis are versatile enough to toss into oatmeal, trail mixes, or yogurt. You can also enjoy them as is for a quick, nutritious pick-me-up. The concentrated nutrients make every bite a mini health boost, so next time you want to reach for a snack, consider keeping these at the ready. There’s no reason for snacking to be an unhealthy practice!

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Everyone could use some more healthy fats in their life. Enter avocado into the equation, but fear not because this is not guacamole in dessert form. This is a splendid citrusy dessert that tastes like a healthier version of key lime pie (just without the pie crust and whipped cream). This recipe is actually akin to chocolate avocado pudding. If you have tried that, you know that the avocado flies under the radar of your taste buds. The avocado is simply an ingredient that enhances creaminess.

This avocado mousse does resemble a velvety smooth guacamole, but that’s only because of the color. Once you get over that hurdle, you unlock a whole new world of flavor. The lime juice and zest provides that tart flavor, which is mellowed by the creamy avocado and sweet raw agave nectar. Don’t have agave on hand? Feel free to use grade A or “pure” maple syrup. The flavor may change slightly because of the maple syrup, but it will not alter the texture of the mousse. As long as you blend the ingredients thoroughly, the mousse will have a creamy texture. If you want to really get fancy with it, feel free to bust out an electric hand mixer and whip the blended mixture.

A quick word about avocados: they contain a wide variety of nutrients and may help prevent bone loss, improve heart health, and boost digestion. They provide a substantial amount of monounsaturated fatty acids, which can help you feel fuller between meals. Eating healthy fats can help slow the breakdown of carbohydrates, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.

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On average, a person spends one-third of their life sleeping, equating to an average of 26 years. What’s even more impressive is that a person spends an average seven years trying to get to sleep during their lifetime. What is so special about sleep and why is it integral to your overall health? Additionally, are there nighttime habits that negatively impact your sleep, or make it harder to fall asleep? 

Sleep impacts how well you focus during the day and can influence what you eat, how you think, and more. Trying to reduce the amount you sleep in order to get more things done in the day is ill-advised. Short sleepers (those who sleep minimal hours per night) make up about one to three percent of the population. The rest of you who want to sleep less are only putting your health in jeopardy. 

There are many things you can do at night for better sleep, but what about the things you shouldn’t do? If your sleep is suffering, one of the following habits could be to blame. Sleep experts want you to avoid these common habits that interfere with your sleep. 

Drinking Alcohol

It’s true that a glass of wine or cocktail before bed can help you doze off faster. Nervous system specialists agree that alcohol can negatively affect overall sleep quality. Alcohol can make you feel like you are getting deeper sleep, but it causes problems with sleep architecture. Sleep experts explain that alcohol primarily affects the second half of sleep, so you spend less time in REM sleep. Alcohol also has diuretic properties, so it can cause you to wake up and use the restroom in the middle of the night. 

Delaying Bedtime

It’s common to have a night when your bedtime is later than usual. Perhaps you went to see a movie, concert, hung out late with friends, or you wanted to catch one more episode of a new series. The urge to stay up late and put off bedtime is sometimes referred to as “revenge bedtime procrastination.” This can lead to chronic fatigue overtime, according to sleep experts. A 2014 study found that bedtime procrastination is related to general reports of insufficient sleep that extend beyond self-regulation. Basically, you just have to go to bed at a reasonable hour and your morning self will appreciate it. 

Getting Into Bed Before You Are Ready For Sleep

Sleep experts explain that the optimal time to get into bed is when you are ready to fall asleep. There is no sense in lying down before you are tired. If you cannot fall asleep, you should try again when you are really sleepy. That way, you can feel more confident in your ability to fall asleep. Just make sure you don’t do anything to get in the way of feeling tired. 

Eating A Late Dinner

It’s true that eating too close to bedtime can interfere with proper digestion, which can negatively affect sleep. Your circadian rhythm, though, loves routine, which is why it’s best to eat dinner at roughly the same time every night. Ideally, eat dinner more than three hours before your bedtime. Late-night eating can affect metabolic health and make it more difficult to stay asleep once you fall asleep. Research suggests that eating dinner at roughly the same time every night can benefit your body’s internal clock, which benefits your sleep. 

Staring At Your Screen

This should not come as a surprise, but it is a very common bedtime habit. Scrolling through social media, watching YouTube videos, or streaming a movie or show on your laptop before bed can affect circadian rhythm and melatonin production, due to the blue light that screens give off. If you experience difficulty falling asleep and have a screen habit in bed, try to ditch the screen and opt for a book instead. Sleep experts suggest avoiding screens for at least one hour before you go to bed to ready your brain and body for sleep. 

Cranking The Heat

According to sleep studies, the optimal bedroom temperature for high-quality sleep is about 65-68 degrees Fahrenheit. The body temperature naturally dips just a little when you get ready for bed, so a warm bedroom is not ideal for sleep. Heat exposure ultimately decreases REM sleep and slow wave sleep, in addition to increasing nighttime wakings. Depending on the time of year, you will have to adjust your thermostat or open up windows to set the stage for a somewhat chilly sleep environment.

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It may come as a shock to you, but different fruits contain protein. They are great sources of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, natural sugars, a bit of fat, and even some protein. An apple, for example, does not offer the same amount of protein as a piece of salmon, but it comes with a diverse mix of micro and macronutrients. 

Protein is having a moment, to say the least. This is partially due to the popularity of the carnivore, Paleo, keto, and other high-protein diets. We aren’t here to talk about those diets, though, as many of them discourage the consumption of fruit. That’s because fruits contain carbs and less sugar than animal-based foods. An egg, for example, has about six grams of protein, whereas fruit may only offer a couple grams per cup. 

If you are trying to up your protein intake and diversify your fruit consumption, the fruits in this article may come to your aid. Whole fruits offer key nutrients that support other aspects of total bodily health, so don’t neglect them. They are relatively low in calories and high in water and fiber, two things that benefit gastrointestinal health. So if you are looking to snack healthily and get a little protein in the process, consider the fruits listed below.

Passion Fruit

Passion fruit is a lovely tropical fruit that grows on a vine. The fiber content in one cup of passion fruit is very high, exhibiting a whopping 24.5 grams, which is nearly 88% of the daily value (DV). Fiber works to regulate digestion and promote healthy cholesterol levels. The same cup of passion fruit provides five grams of protein.

Blackberries

One of the great things about blackberries is that they are very high in antioxidant compounds. They also happen to be the berry with the highest amount of protein, exhibiting about two grams per cup. Blackberries are low in calories, rich in fiber, and high in anthocyanin, a phytonutrient that has demonstrated abilities to influence immune function and improve gut microbiome. 

Avocado

Although avocado seems like a vegetable, it is actually a fruit of the savory variety. Avocados offer three grams of protein per cup, in addition to lots of healthy fats that help you feel full. You can enjoy avocado with a spoon and some sea salt, transform it into guacamole, or add it on toast. Just keep in mind that avocados have more calories than other fruits, with one cup of avocado containing 234 calories. 

Kiwi

Didn’t think a kiwi would have protein did you? Well, one cup of kiwi has nearly two grams of protein, which is not bad! Kiwi is also naturally rich in vitamin C, offering about 167 milligrams per cup. That amount is nearly double the DV of vitamin C! Several studies also found that kiwis work to improve digestion and promote bowel regularity, which researchers attribute to their fiber content. 

Guava

Yet another vitamin C superstar, guava is a tropical fruit that offers a lot of protein, especially for its size. One cup of guava has a little over four grams of protein and nine grams of fiber, which is about one-third of the DV. Research continues to find that increasing your fiber intake can reduce blood pressure and promote healthy cholesterol levels, especially in people with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. 

Apricot

Unlike other fruits, apricots are not typically available year-round, but you can find them in dried form at all times. They typically show up in grocery stores or at farmer’s markets in late spring and summer. Each half-cup of dried apricot halves contains a little over two grams of protein. Dried apricots do not have water, so they are more calorically dense than fresh versions. That same half-cup, then, has about 157 calories, so just keep that in mind when snacking on dried apricots. 

Jackfruit

We are rounding out this article with the largest fruit on the list, the mighty jackfruit. Exhibiting a stringy texture, jackfruit is a common meat substitute for plant-based eaters. If you are swapping jackfruit for chicken, though, keep in mind that one cup of jackfruit offers three grams of protein compared to the 35 grams you’d get from chicken. Because it is not very sweet, it takes on whichever seasonings or flavors you cook with it, but you can enjoy it raw if you like.

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In today’s fast-paced society, many of us have grown accustomed to quick fixes and processed meals. Yet, our bodies are finely tuned to thrive on nutrient-dense, unprocessed foods—the very essence of what nature provides. When we shift our focus from calorie counting and packaged diets to the rich, vibrant world of whole foods, we discover that what we eat is more than just fuel. It’s a dynamic conversation between the earth and our bodies, one that has profound effects on our overall health.

The Living Nutrient Network

Whole foods are not merely a collection of vitamins and minerals; rather, they are a living network of natural compounds that work together in harmony to support our well-being. Unlike processed foods that isolate and strip away many of these vital elements, whole foods retain enzymes, fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that contribute to our body’s ability to heal and regenerate.

Consider the natural integrity of a fresh apple plucked straight from an orchard. Beyond its juicy sweetness lies a complex matrix of nutrients that interact synergistically to aid digestion, support the immune system, and promote cellular repair. This intricate interplay is something modern food production often overlooks, yet it’s precisely this cooperation that can unlock a level of health many of us have never experienced before.

Soil, Sunlight, and Sustenance: The Farm-To-Table Connection

What you consume begins long before it reaches your plate. The health of your food is inextricably linked to the vitality of the soil, the quality of the water, and the care with which it is cultivated. When you embrace a farm-to-table approach, you’re not just choosing fresh produce; you’re reconnecting with the source of life itself.

Local farms that practice organic and sustainable methods work to preserve the natural ecosystem. The result is produce that is richer in natural nutrients, harvested at the peak of its flavor and nutritional potential. This direct connection from soil to plate not only enhances the taste of your food but also ensures that you receive the maximum health benefits—a concept that challenges the conventional reliance on supermarket shelves filled with long-transported, nutritionally diminished goods.

A Nutrient Symphony: Beyond Isolated Vitamins

For years, nutritional science focused on individual vitamins and minerals, often in isolation. However, emerging research suggests that the real power of nutrition lies in the synergy of compounds found in whole foods. These foods deliver a full spectrum of nutrients in their natural form, creating a “nutrient symphony” that supports optimal bodily functions.

For instance, the fiber in whole grains isn’t just important for digestion; it also works in tandem with antioxidants and phytochemicals to lower inflammation and enhance the absorption of other nutrients. This holistic interaction within whole foods can offer benefits that isolated supplements simply can’t match. It’s a revelation that reminds us: when we eat in harmony with nature, we’re not just surviving—we’re thriving.

Reconnecting With Nature: The Farm-To-Table Advantage

Embracing a farm-to-table lifestyle means more than just choosing organic produce. It represents a commitment to a healthier, more balanced way of living. Local, seasonal foods bring with them the vibrancy and diversity of the natural world, which, in turn, fuels our bodies with energy and vitality.

Imagine a community where farmers, chefs, and consumers are all connected by a shared commitment to healthy, sustainable eating. Each bite becomes a testament to the care taken from the moment the seed was planted until it was harvested and served. This approach does more than nourish your body; it nurtures the local economy, preserves the environment, and strengthens the bond between you and the food you eat. In doing so, you’re not just choosing a meal—you’re embracing a philosophy that honors the natural cycles of life.

How Whole Foods Transform Your Body

The impact of whole foods on the body is both subtle and profound. When you switch from processed options to a diet rich in whole foods, several beneficial changes can occur:

• Enhanced Digestion: The natural fiber and enzymes in whole foods aid in the efficient breakdown and absorption of nutrients. This improves digestion and can alleviate common issues like bloating and constipation.
  
• Balanced Energy Levels: Whole foods release energy more slowly and steadily than processed foods, so you don’t experience the classic spikes and crashes that typically result from eating processed foods. This balanced energy helps maintain focus and sustains physical activity throughout the day.
  
• Reduced Inflammation: The antioxidants and phytonutrients present in whole foods work to combat inflammation, a common underlying factor in many chronic health conditions.
  
• Boosted Immunity: By providing a wide array of natural nutrients, whole foods strengthen the immune system, making your body more resilient to infections and illnesses.
  
• Optimized Metabolism: The nutrient-rich profile of whole foods supports efficient metabolic processes, helping your body convert food into energy effectively.
  

These benefits reveal that healthy eating is not merely about weight management or calorie restriction—it’s about restoring and maintaining the natural harmony within your body.

Embracing a New Perspective on Healthy Eating

The shift towards whole foods and farm-to-table practices invites us to reimagine our relationship with food. It challenges us to look beyond the superficial promises of quick fixes and instead invest in a lifestyle that nurtures our body at its most fundamental level.

This perspective offers a liberating insight: by aligning your diet with nature’s rhythms, you empower your body to tap into its innate ability to heal, regenerate, and perform at its best. The transformation is gradual yet profound—over time, you begin to feel more energized, mentally clear, and physically resilient. It’s a subtle change that, once noticed, becomes unmistakable, inviting you to further explore the deep connection between what you eat and how you feel.

Embracing the Full Spectrum of Natural Nutrition

In a world dominated by synthetic supplements and processed alternatives, whole foods remind us that nature provides the most complete nourishment. Every bite of farm-fresh produce is an opportunity to reconnect with the earth, to experience the full spectrum of natural nutrients that have evolved over millennia to support life.

By choosing whole foods, you are opting for a way of eating that respects the complexity and intelligence of nature. It’s a decision that goes beyond diet—it’s a commitment to a lifestyle that values authenticity, sustainability, and true health. Dherbs stands by this philosophy, offering products and guidance that complement a diet rich in natural, unprocessed foods, thereby supporting a holistic approach to well-being.

Final Reflections

When you truly consider the journey of food—from the fertile soil to your table—you begin to appreciate the remarkable impact that whole, natural foods can have on your body. This isn’t just a nostalgic return to simpler times; it’s a forward-thinking approach to health that leverages the timeless wisdom of nature. Embracing a farm-to-table lifestyle means investing in your body’s natural ability to heal and flourish—a realization that redefines what it means to eat well.

Step into this renewed perspective on healthy eating. Allow yourself to experience the transformative power of whole foods and reconnect with the natural world. In doing so, you’re not just consuming food; you’re nourishing your body, mind, and spirit with the pure, unadulterated gifts of nature.

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By now, it should not be a secret that diet influences many aspects of your health. From digestion and brain function to athletic performance and aging, the foods you eat either boost or take away from your health. In fact, science-backed evidence continues to prove this, especially in recent years. New research indicates that sugar may be a big contributing factor that accelerates cellular aging. 

Not everyone is a big sugar consumer, but it lures in people with its sweet, addictive deliciousness every day. If donuts are out, it’s very difficult to resist grabbing one. You don’t want one. You’re full, actually, and yet you still reach into that box and allow the power of sugar to take over. Some people feel that way about saltier snacks, but many succumb to sugar’s addictive quality. 

A new cutting-edge measure, known as the “epigenetic clock,” helps scientists better understand the link between added sugar consumption and how quickly cells age. Continue reading to learn more about that. 

What Is An Epigenetic Clock?

Before delving into the definition, you must first understand that aging is characterized by different changes that occur at the cellular, sub-cellular, and nuclear levels. One of those levels is epigenetic aging. Scientists understand that epigenetic alterations affect aging. For this reason DNA methylation patterns have been used as a measure of biological age. This is currently referred to as an epigenetic clock. 

An epigenetic clock is essentially a biomarker of age, and various clocks continue to emerge. DNA PhenoAge, DNA GrimAge, and Horvath’s clock are just a few in existence. It’s not a science fiction gadget; rather, it is an advanced marker that helps scientists evaluate changes to DNA to estimate biological age. The study that detected how quickly sugar ages cells involved 342 women at midlife. Researchers collected DNA from saliva in order to measure their epigenetic age, in addition to analyzing participants’ diets.

The Findings

The researchers noted a measurable acceleration in biological aging for every gram of added sugar that participants consumed. Even the individuals who followed an otherwise healthy diet experienced this accelerated aging. That said, people who consumed nutrient-dense, low-sugar diets were linked to slower aging. Let’s examine the key takeaways from this research:

1. Cut back on sugar and you may just turn back the hands of time. In fact, reducing your added sugar intake by just 10 grams per day could potentially reverse biological aging by up to 2.4 months. 
2. Stick to a nutrient-dense diet that focuses on foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E. Additionally, consume foods that contain magnesium and fiber, as all of these nutrients have been linked to a younger biological age. 
3. According to researchers, a Mediterranean-style diet is a smart choice to help slow cellular aging. Most blue zones, which are areas with a high concentration of centenarians, exist in the Mediterranean. The consensus is that these people consume a lot of foods rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

How Does Sugar Impact Your Health?

According to many studies, excess sugar consumption contributes to elevated inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, and DNA damage. What does all of that mean for your cellular health? As you can imagine, it’s not good news. It’s perfectly fine if you decide to indulge in a sugary treat every so often and maintain a nutrient-dense diet the rest of the time. Consistent overconsumption, though, can take a toll on the body’s natural repair processes, which affects your epigenetic age. 

Looking for simple ways to cut back on added sugars without surrendering flavor? There are a variety of sugar swaps that help you satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthier way. They are:

• Opt for oatmeal topped with nut butter and fresh berries for a healthier, sweet breakfast treat. You can also enjoy a fruit and vegetable smoothie in place of sugary processed cereals. Chia pudding is another great option, especially if you need to take breakfast on the go. 
• Indulge in some antioxidant-rich dark chocolate instead of packaged candy bars. Aim for 70% cacao or higher in order to reap the health benefits. 
• It can be difficult to stop drinking soda, as it is highly addictive and overly sweet. Grab a sparkling water or healthy soda alternative instead of reaching for sugar-laden energy drinks or standard sodas. 

The Takeaway

Sugar influences cellular health and longevity, as was proven clear during this recent study. If you shift your focus to consume less sugar and more antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory foods, then your body and health, including your biological clock, will benefit. 

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