Latest news with #SamanthaDeVito
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
The #1 Late-Night Drink for Better Sleep, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDKey Points Tart cherry juice may help you fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality. The fruit juice contains melatonin, antioxidants and tryptophan—all of which support quality sleep. Tactics like limiting screen time and being active during the day can help you sleep better at night.A good night's sleep can feel out of reach when your mind won't quiet or your body won't relax. But reaching for a calming beverage can help set the stage for deeper, more restful sleep. While plenty of drinks may support relaxation, one option stands out for its research-backed benefits: tart cherry juice. 'Tart cherry juice contains melatonin and tryptophan, two key compounds that help regulate sleep-wake cycles and promote better sleep quality,' says Samantha DeVito M.S., RD, CDN. It's linked to increased melatonin levels, longer sleep duration and improved sleep efficiency in both healthy individuals and those with insomnia. Read on to learn why dietitians recommend tart cherry juice for deep sleep, plus simple strategies for incorporating it into your nighttime routine. Why Tart Cherry Juice is the Best Late-Night Drink for Deep Sleep Natural Source of Melatonin Tart cherries are one of the few foods that naturally contain melatonin. 'Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle,' says Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD. While your body makes melatonin on its own, several things can disrupt the body's natural production of melatonin, including light exposure, irregular sleep schedules and alcohol and caffeine intake, just to name a few. Drinking tart cherry juice can gently boost melatonin levels, which may help improve sleep onset and overall sleep quality without the grogginess often associated with certain sleep medications and supplements. Contains Sleep-Enhancing Tryptophan Thanksgiving turkey isn't the only thing that contains the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan—tart cherries have it, too. 'Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that plays a key role in the production of melatonin,' says Claudia Salinas, M.S., RDN, LD. Your body uses tryptophan to produce serotonin, which is then converted into melatonin, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Rich in Antioxidants to Support Recovery In addition to its sleep-supportive nutrients, this deep purple beverage delivers powerful antioxidants that play an indirect role in promoting better sleep and brain health. 'Tart cherry juice is a natural source of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that may help support deeper, more restful sleep,' says DeVito. Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which can negatively impact sleep quality and efficiency, the difference between the time spent in bed and the actual time spent sleeping. Reducing oxidative stress through the consumption of antioxidant-rich foods—like tart cherry juice—can support both restorative sleep and long-term cognitive health. , How to Enjoy Tart Cherry Juice Enjoy an iced mocktail. Pour tart cherry juice over ice and top with sparkling water and a splash of citrus for a sleepy mocktail. Add a scoop of magnesium glycinate powder—another nutrient known to help with sleep—to increase the sleep-enhancing benefits of the tart cherry juice. Have it with a light snack. 'Drinking tart cherry juice alongside a small snack—like whole-grain toast with almond butter—may help support tryptophan absorption and promote relaxation,' DeVito tells. Drink it 1-2 hours before bed. DeVito says this timing will help limit middle-of-the-night bathroom trips. Other Strategies for Deep Sleep Reduce end-of-day stress. It's hard to fall asleep when your mind is racing, so Salinas recommends incorporating relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, meditation, yoga or some light stretches to help manage stress. Establish a consistent sleep schedule. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. A regular sleep-wake rhythm helps regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling rested. Limit screen time before bed. Blue light can disrupt the production of melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep. 'I usually encourage shutting off screens at least 30-60 minutes before sleeping,' says Salinas. Get active during the day. Research suggests that consistent, moderate-intensity exercise can help you fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality.6 Aim to avoid high-intensity workouts close to bedtime. Avoid caffeine later in the day. Drink your last caffeinated beverage at least 4–6 hours before going to bed. Our Expert Take Drinking tart cherry juice before bed may help you fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality thanks to its melatonin, tryptophan and antioxidant content, but it's not a band-aid. If you're having difficulty sleeping, take a moment to assess your habits. A consistent sleep schedule, along with a nighttime routine, can help signal to your body that it's time for sleep. For deep sleep, consider adding more movement to your day, limiting afternoon caffeine intake and turning off devices an hour before lights out. With these daily habits—and a glass of tart cherry juice—you'll be catching more quality zzzs in no time. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
5 Foods to Avoid After 5 P.M. If You Struggle with Constipation, According to Experts
Reviewed by Dietitian Katey Davidson, RD, CPT1. Choosing the right foods to eat before bedtime can help prevent constipation. 2. Avoid foods high in fat and low in fiber to improve digestion, especially at night. 3. Establishing a consistent night routine can help improve bowel you're already dealing with constipation, the last thing you need is a nighttime snack that makes things worse. What you eat before bed can have a surprising impact on your digestion, and in some cases, it might be the reason you wake up feeling even more backed up. Nearly 16% of adults in the U.S. suffer from constipation, and that number doubles after the age of 60. While fiber and hydration are key for keeping things moving, certain foods—especially when eaten right before sleep—can slow digestion even more. We spoke with digestive experts to learn which foods are the worst to eat before bed if you have constipation, plus what to choose instead. 'If you're prone to constipation, it's best to steer clear of high-fat foods before bed—think cheese, processed snacks or heavy takeout,' says Samantha DeVito, M.S., RD, CDN. 'These types of meals can slow digestion and may make things worse overnight when your gut naturally slows down.' Even large servings of nut butters before bed can be problematic, according to Kerry Conlon, M.S., RD, a dietitian specializing in digestive diseases. 'Although they are healthy fats, eating too much nut butter before bed can slow down gastric emptying, which means food moves through your digestive system slowly, which can lead to constipation,' she explains. Your digestive system follows a circadian rhythm, or 24-hour clock, meaning it's more active during the day and winds down at night. Eating foods that are high in fat too close to bedtime can delay stomach emptying and reduce the natural morning urge to go. Instead, choose lighter, high-fiber meals in the evening to support regularity and work with your body's natural rhythm—not against it. If you're used to having a nightcap or a glass of wine before bed, you may want to rethink it if you're not as regular as you'd like to be. Alcohol acts as a diuretic by lowering levels of vasopressin—a hormone that helps your kidneys hold on to water. When vasopressin is suppressed, your body loses more fluid through frequent urination, which can lead to mild dehydration. Dehydration can cause harder, drier stools that are more difficult to pass. Drinking alcohol can also disrupt your sleep, says Mikhail Yakubov, M.D., a board-certified gastroenterologist at Manhattan Gastroenterology. 'Sleep and digestion are closely linked through your body's circadian rhythm,' says Yakubov. 'Poor sleep quality or insufficient rest can slow gut motility, making it harder to have a morning bowel movement.' Refined grains like white bread, white pasta, white rice and desserts may be a comforting nighttime snack, but they can make things worse if you're feeling backed up. These foods are stripped of most of their fiber during processing, which means they lack the bulk that helps move stool through the digestive tract. 'Fiber acts as a broom sweeping through to help keep us regular and remove waste products,' says Rhyan Geiger, RDN. 'Highly processed foods that are low in fiber may contribute to slower digestion and movement through the system, causing constipation,' Conlon adds. Instead, opt for high-fiber fruits like kiwi or dates or high-fiber grains such as oats. Protein is an essential nutrient that everyone needs, but not all proteins are created equal—especially when it comes to digestion. 'Many of the high-protein snacks on the market—such as protein bars, cookies, pretzels and chips—contain protein isolates and sugar substitutes that can contribute to uncomfortable bloating and gas in people with sluggish digestion,' says Conlon. While these foods are a convenient way to increase your protein intake, they may cause constipation in some people. Conlon recommends chia pudding as a high-protein, high-fiber snack to enjoy before bed. 'Dairy-based snacks like yogurt, milk and cheese might contribute to constipation if you're sensitive to lactose or have a tendency toward sluggish digestion,' says DeVito. These foods contain protein and fat that take longer to break down in your digestive system. While slower digestion can help keep you feeling full longer for some people, it can be challenging if you already struggle with regular bowel movements. If you notice that dairy products tend to leave you feeling backed up, especially in the evening, it's a good idea to limit how much you consume before bed. Choosing lactose-free alternatives or plant-based options can be easier on your digestive system and may help support smoother digestion overnight. Eat a light snack rich in fiber and fluids. DeVito recommends berries with probiotic-rich kefir or a small bowl of oatmeal with chia seeds. Establish a nighttime routine for good sleep. 'A consistent sleep schedule helps. Your gut thrives on routine just like the rest of your body,' says DeVito. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to help maintain bowel regularity. Practice gentle movement. Conlon recommends some form of light movement after dinner to encourage digestion, such as walking. Studies show that higher levels of activity are associated with a lower risk of constipation. Eat consistent meals and snacks. 'The timing of your meals matters when it comes to bowel regularity,' says Conlon. Avoid eating too close to bedtime and aim to spread meals and snacks evenly throughout the day. Just as there are things that can relieve constipation, there are some things that could be making it worse, particularly things you consume before bed. Much like your sleep, your digestion operates on a circadian rhythm, with things naturally slowing down at nighttime. Eating foods that slow digestion or drinking alcohol before bed can worsen constipation and leave you feeling even more backed up in the morning. Since everyone responds differently, some trial and error may be needed to find which foods are best to avoid before bed. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The #1 Food to Limit to Reduce Your Risk of Acid Reflux, According to Experts
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDDietitians agree that fried foods are the No. 1 food to limit to avoid acid reflux. Instead, aim to eat more lean proteins, high-fiber grains, legumes and cooked vegetables. Eating smaller meals, skipping carbonated drinks and getting regular exercise can also reflux is when the contents in your stomach (like partially digested food and acids) reverse direction and make their way back up your esophagus and into your throat. This can lead to abdominal pain, burping, a sour taste, nausea and chest pain. Over time, frequent reflux can erode the esophagus, impacting your quality of life. While triggers vary from person to person, there's one common culprit that dietitians agree can exacerbate symptoms: fried foods. Here's what you need to know about why fried foods top the list of reflux triggers and the swaps that can help you feel better. There are many strategies for managing acid reflux, and making changes to your diet is usually the best place to start. 'Fried foods are high in fat, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and delay stomach emptying, two key contributors to acid reflux,' says Samantha DeVito, M.S., RD, CDN. This combination makes it easier for stomach acid to creep back up into the esophagus, leading to that familiar burning sensation. 'Reducing high-fat meals has been shown to improve reflux symptoms, so avoiding fried foods can help,' DeVito adds. Registered dietitian Lisa Andrews, RD, LD, agrees. 'Fried foods may increase stomach acid production, a trigger for acid reflux.' When food remains in the stomach for an extended period, like after consuming a high-fat meal, the body may produce more stomach acid to help with digestion, which can cause heartburn. Andrews notes that fried foods also tend to be higher in calories, which can contribute to weight gain over time, a known risk factor for reflux. Studies show that excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can increase pressure on the stomach and weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of developing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease or chronic acid reflux). For those seeking relief from acid reflux, cutting back on fried foods is a helpful first step. Some foods are well-known for causing reflux, but individual triggers can vary, says Michael Schopis, M.D., a gastroenterologist with Manhattan Gastroenterology. His advice: Track your eating habits to pinpoint reflux triggers and cut back on those specific foods. Here are some foods that are generally beneficial for individuals who suffer from reflux. Instead of fried foods, opt for those that are lower in fat, such as grilled chicken and baked fish. These are less likely to trigger reflux compared to other options that are high in saturated fat. 'Grilled chicken, fish or plant-based proteins like lentils are lower in fat and easier on the digestive system,' says DeVito. Skinless chicken breasts, in particular, are an excellent source of lean protein. 'Baked, broiled or grilled lean meats are better than high-fat or fried foods because they are easier to digest and may also support a healthy weight,' explains Andrews. You can also try air-frying proteins with little to no oil. This may or may not trigger reflux symptoms depending on the food. Instead of refined grains or foods high in added sugar, which may worsen reflux, consider choosing fiber-rich whole grains, such as oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, whole-wheat pasta and whole-grain bread. Fiber supports healthy digestion and may help with acid reflux. High-fiber foods are generally neutral in acidity and can help absorb excess stomach acid, which may help reduce symptoms. A diet high in fiber, which includes whole grains and other complex carbohydrates, has been shown to improve lower esophageal sphincter pressure, a factor that can contribute to GERD. Legumes (beans, lentils and chickpeas) are protein-rich meat alternatives that are low in fat. 'These foods are less likely to trigger reflux and still provide satisfying, nutrient-rich meals,' DeVito says. Packed with iron and fiber, legumes help keep you full and satisfied while also helping to alleviate reflux. While they are a nutritious addition to a reflux-friendly diet, be mindful of how they are prepared. Recipes that call for heavy spices and cream, or tomato-based sauces, could be irritating. Instead, look for dishes that use milder seasonings and herbs. Adding more vegetables to your day can help prevent those uncomfortable reflux symptoms you're looking to avoid. Cooking vegetables makes them easier to digest and potentially decreases their acidity, especially when compared to raw vegetables. Cooking also helps soften the fibers in vegetables, making them less likely to cause gas and bloating, which can worsen acid reflux. While veggies are a good choice, how they're prepared makes a difference. Dishes loaded with butter, cheese or spicy sauces may aggravate reflux symptoms. Instead, opt for steamed, roasted or sautéed vegetables seasoned with olive oil and mild herbs like basil or parsley. Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Eating small portions four to six times per day can be beneficial for individuals with GERD. This will prevent you from becoming too hungry or overly full, both of which can cause heartburn. Avoid lying down for two to three hours after eating. Give your body time to digest your food so it doesn't travel back up into the esophagus. 'Consider elevating the head of your bed to prevent nighttime symptoms,' says DeVito. Skip carbonated beverages and soda. 'These may promote the 'bubbling up' of acid in the esophagus,' says Andrews. Instead, stay hydrated with water to support proper digestion and reduce constipation. Stay physically active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to support digestion and promote a healthy body weight, as research suggests that this may reduce the risk of developing GERD by 72%. It's totally normal to experience acid reflux (aka heartburn) from time to time. While occasional heartburn is harmless, chronic reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If your symptoms are more frequent, avoiding fried foods—among other things—can reduce your risk of acid reflux. Instead, opt for leaner proteins that are baked or grilled, and incorporate whole, nutrient-dense foods that are rich in fiber. Other strategies that may be helpful include eating smaller, more frequent meals, sitting upright for two to three hours after eating, and exercising consistently. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
9 Best Foods to Help You Stay Hydrated, Recommended by Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Alyssa Pike, RDNSome fruits and veggies, like watermelon and cucumbers, are made of over 90% water and can help you hydrate. These foods also give your body important nutrients like potassium and vitamin C to keep you feeling good. Eating hydrating foods is extra helpful on hot days, or after playing outside or working get an estimated 20% of your fluid needs from foods, so eating more hydrating foods could help you up your hydration game. Spoiler alert: the most hydrating foods tend to be fruits and veggies. It's one of the many reasons they're central to a healthy eating pattern. We spoke with dietitians to round up the best foods to help you hydrate. All of the fruits and veggies on this list are made up of at least 84% water. Plus, many of them have electrolytes like potassium and magnesium to further aid in hydration. In this article, learn the top nine foods dietitians recommend to help you stay hydrated. It probably comes as no surprise that watermelon is one of the best foods for hydrating. (It is called watermelon, after all). "Composed of about 92% water, watermelon is also rich in vitamin C and lycopene," says Sarah Nash, M.S., RD, LDN. "It's a refreshing option that helps with both hydration and antioxidant intake." "It also contains a small amount of potassium and magnesium—electrolytes that support fluid balance," says Samantha DeVito, M.S., RD, CDN. This helps replenish electrolytes lost in your sweat on hot days. Plus, the sugars in watermelon help rehydrate your body after exercise, making watermelon the ideal snack for an active day outdoors. "This delicious treat is perfect for a hydration pick-me-up after outside play or by the pool on a hot summer day," says Jamie Baham, M.S., RDN, LD. Blueberries are made of 84% water, and their peak season is summer. "In addition to being great sources of hydration, these blue gems are packed with polyphenols, which play a major role in reducing chronic disease risk," says Baham. In fact, research shows that regularly eating blueberries may help protect against cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cognitive health issues. "I love adding these to my pancakes on a Saturday morning or tossing them into my Greek yogurt parfaits for a little flavor burst," says Baham. For an even more hydrating berry, try strawberries, which are made of about 91% water. "Strawberries are full of flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatories that have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer," says Baham. Plus, just one cup of strawberries provides a full day's worth of vitamin C. "I love adding strawberries to my mixed green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette or tossing them into my heart-healthy oatmeal for an extra burst of flavor," Baham adds. At over 90% water, bell peppers are an amazing veggie to up your hydration game. They're also rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, carotenoids and phenolic compounds. For the most benefits, follow the age-old saying "eat the rainbow" with a mix of red, yellow, orange and green bell peppers. Each one has different types and amounts of antioxidants to support overall health. "Peppers can be eaten raw with hummus or Greek yogurt dip or grilled, roasted or sauteed and used in many dishes," says Lisa Andrews, RD, LD. Cucumbers are undoubtedly one of the best foods for hydrating—they're almost entirely made of water. "Cucumbers are naturally about 95% water, making them an excellent food choice for staying hydrated!" says Alexia Zolis, RD, PHEc. You'll also get electrolytes like potassium, magnesium and calcium for additional hydration benefits. "Cucumbers are a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed as a snack or in a salad or sandwich, making them an easy option to incorporate," says Zolis. Summer squash, or zucchini, is a perfect summertime veggie because it's full of water. "With over 90% water, zucchini is hydrating and adaptable," says Nash. "It can be eaten raw or cooked and contributes to overall fluid intake while offering fiber and vitamin C." You'll also get antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, known for their role in eye health. To enjoy zucchini, grill it as a side dish or dice it up raw for a salad. Although you may have heard that dark leafy greens are healthiest, lighter green lettuces are great for hydration. "Iceberg lettuce is often overlooked, but it's about 96% water," says DeVito. "It's an easy way to increase hydration, especially when used as a base for meals or in wraps and sandwiches." Also, one cup of iceberg lettuce has 11% of the daily value (DV) of vitamin K. This vitamin helps with blood clotting and building strong bones. Celery is yet another veggie that can help you achieve your hydration goals. "Composed of about 95% water, celery also contains natural sodium and potassium, which help support fluid balance and hydration," says Nash. These are minerals we lose in sweat, and replenishing them with foods can help promote rehydration. For a hydrating summertime snack, make a veggie tray with celery, bell peppers and cucumbers. Dip the veggies in hummus for healthy fats, protein and fiber. Orange slices are a common post-game snack for young athletes for good reason. "With about 87% water content, oranges offer vitamin C, potassium and natural sugars that aid hydration and electrolyte replenishment," says Nash. Plus, you'll get about 10% of the DV for fiber in just one navel orange—a big bonus for digestive health. Patricia Kolesa, M.S., RDN, especially loves mandarin oranges for easy hydration. "Mandarins can be enjoyed as a stand-alone snack or tossed into yogurts and salads for a touch of sweetness," she says. Drinking water isn't the only way to stay hydrated. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables also helps. According to dietitians, some of the best foods for hydration are watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, strawberries and bell peppers. They also recommend blueberries, zucchini, celery and lettuce. These foods have a high water content along with vitamins, antioxidants and electrolytes. So, especially in hotter months when your hydration needs are higher, make sure to eat plenty of these nutritious, hydrating foods. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Zucchini Regularly
Reviewed by Dietitian Alyssa Pike, RDNZucchini contains a variety of vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin C, beta carotene, potassium and fiber. This humble vegetable supports digestion, eye health, hydration and heart health. From zoodles to grilled to baked into breads and muffins, zucchini is as versatile as it is a versatile and delicious summer squash, has quickly risen to the top of shopping lists for eaters everywhere. Whether spiralized into zoodles or baked into bread, zucchini is a nutrient-packed vegetable that offers numerous benefits—from heart health to eye health to digestion. But what actually happens to your body when you make zucchini a regular part of your diet? Whether you're a zucchini lover or new to this vibrant green squash, keep reading to discover why this veggie deserves a permanent spot in your diet. Zucchini is loaded with dietary fiber, especially in its skin, making it great for promoting healthy digestion. Fiber adds bulk to stool, which can improve bowel regularity and support overall gut health. 'Zucchini's fiber and water content can help soften stool and prevent constipation, while also feeding beneficial gut bacteria,' says Samantha DeVito, M.S., RD. By including zucchini in your meals, you not only enjoy its delicious taste but also help your body meet its daily hydration needs in a natural and refreshing way. 'Zucchini is about 95% water,' says Amanda Godman, M.S., RD, CDN. 'This delicious vegetable can actually help prevent dehydration. It's a great choice especially in the warmer summer months (zucchini is actually a summer squash)!" Proper hydration is essential for maintaining energy levels, regulating body temperature, and supporting various bodily functions. Zucchini is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Free radicals occur through natural bodily processes but can also be compounded by exposure to smoke, pollution or an unhealthy diet. When free radicals build up, they can lead to oxidative stress—a process linked to chronic diseases. 'You'll also benefit from its antioxidants, like vitamin C and beta carotene, which help reduce inflammation and support immune health,' says Lisa Young, Ph.D., RDN. Including antioxidant-rich foods like zucchini in your diet may help strengthen your body's defenses against conditions such as heart disease and certain cancers. This humble vegetable is a heart-healthy choice due to its potassium content and low sodium levels. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. 'Zucchini is a heart-healthy powerhouse, rich in potassium and fiber, making it an excellent choice for supporting cardiovascular health,' says Toby Amidor, M.S., RD."'Zucchini is a heart-healthy powerhouse, rich in potassium and fiber, making it an excellent choice for supporting cardiovascular health.'" —Toby Amidor, M.S., antioxidants in zucchini aren't just good for your internal organs; they also benefit your eyes. 'One medium zucchini contains 4,160 micrograms of lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids essential for eye health. Lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the retina, where they exert antioxidant properties to reduce eye damage from age-related macular degeneration,' says Amy Brownstein, M.S., RDN. Zucchini offers a wide range of essential nutrients that your body needs to thrive. Here's what you can find in one small raw zucchini (about 100 grams): Calories: 19 Carbohydrates: 3 grams Dietary fiber: 1 gram Total sugars: 2.5 grams Added sugar: 0 grams Protein: 1 gram Total fat: 0.3 grams Saturated fat: 0 grams Cholesterol: 0 mg Sodium: 8 mg Vitamin C: 18 mg (20% Daily Value) Vitamin B6: 0.2 mg (10% DV) Potassium: 261 mg (6% DV) While zucchini is considered safe for most people, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. Zucchini is part of the Cucurbitaceae family—a group of vegetables that includes squash, pumpkins and cucumbers. If you have a known allergy to cucurbit vegetables, you should avoid zucchini. Additionally, zucchini contains compounds called cucurbitacins, which can sometimes impart a bitter taste. While rare, consuming overly bitter zucchini can lead to adverse side effects like stomachaches. To avoid this, ensure your zucchini tastes fresh before cooking or eating it. For individuals on specific medications, such as diuretics or potassium-sparing drugs, it's a good idea to consult with your health care provider before increasing your zucchini intake, as its potassium content might interact with your treatment. Zucchini can be enjoyed in countless ways. Here are some creative ideas: Make zoodles: Up your veggie intake by making spiralized zucchini noodles. You can top them with your favorite marinara or pesto for a delicious pasta-like meal. Grill or roast: Brush zucchini slices with olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite herbs, and grill or roast for an easy side dish. Bake it into bread or muffins: Add zucchini to your favorite quick bread or muffin recipe for a moist, nutrient-packed treat. Try stuffed zucchini boats: Hollow out zucchini halves, fill with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables and cheese, and bake until tender. Zucchini offers several health benefits, from supporting eye health to boosting heart health. Its high water and fiber content can help keep your digestive system regular, while its antioxidants can help protect your cells from oxidative stress. Plus, it's incredibly easy to incorporate into your diet, whether as a main dish, snack or side. However, like any food, it's important to listen to your body. Monitor for any adverse reactions if you're trying zucchini for the first time, and ultimately enjoy it as part of a balanced, varied diet. With its many benefits and delicious versatility, there's no reason not to make zucchini a regular addition to your meals. Is it OK to eat zucchini every day? Yes, it's generally safe to eat zucchini daily, as long as it's ripe and not overly bitter. Eating zucchini regularly can provide numerous nutrients and health benefits, such as improved digestion and heart health. Can you eat zucchini raw? Absolutely! Zucchini can be enjoyed raw, whether sliced into salads, grated into slaws or paired with dips. Raw zucchini maintains its nutrients and provides a refreshing crunch. What is the best way to store zucchini? Store fresh zucchini in the refrigerator—ideally in the crisper drawer—to maintain its freshness. Try to use it within a week for the best taste and texture. Does zucchini have a lot of carbs? Zucchini is relatively low in carbohydrates, with only about 3 grams per small zucchini, making it an excellent choice for those who need to be mindful about their carbohydrate intake. Why is zucchini sometimes bitter? Bitter zucchini is often caused by high levels of cucurbitacins, naturally occurring bitter compounds found in plants such as cucumbers, pumpkins, melons and squash. To avoid bitterness, taste a small piece of zucchini raw before preparing your dish. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
