Can Artificial Sweeteners Damage My Brain and Eyes?

artificial sweeteners such as in diet soda could cause damageArtificial sweeteners have long been marketed as a “healthier” alternative to sugar, especially for those managing diabetes, obesity, or simply aiming to cut calories. But as we explored in a previous article, mounting research suggests these sugar substitutes may come with hidden health risks that cannot be ignored.

Now, new evidence is shining a spotlight on erythritol—a sugar alcohol commonly found in low-calorie snacks, drinks, and specialty foods. While erythritol is often promoted as a safe, natural option, recent studies suggest it may have unexpected and serious effects on our health, particularly when it comes to brain and cardiovascular function. In this article, we’ll unpack the latest research, explore how artificial sweeteners could affect not just your body but also your vision, and share safe, natural alternatives for those seeking a genuinely healthy way to satisfy their sweet tooth. Continue reading “Can Artificial Sweeteners Damage My Brain and Eyes?”

A Healthy Diet Promotes Healthy Aging

What we eat earlier in life has a profound effect on long-term health and aging. Many studies confirm that eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly is essential to long-term health.

Multiple studies have found that proper nourishment can increase life expectancy. The biggest gains come from eating plenty of nuts and legumes, whole grains, fruits, vegetables. Also, indulging in less processed meat, red meat, sugar and refined carbohydrates has a significant positive effect. And, a large study showed that artificially sweetened soft drinks are associated with deaths from circulatory diseases.[1. Mullee A, Romaguera D, Pearson-Stuttard J, et al. Association Between Soft Drink Consumption and Mortality in 10 European Countries. JAMA Intern Med. 2019;179(11):1479–1490. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.2478]

Continue reading “A Healthy Diet Promotes Healthy Aging”

Summer Chickpea-Cilantro-Sesame Burgers

Here’s a summer bonus!  Vege-burgers with a twist.  Easy to make, just put it all in your food processor.

Extra burgers, ready to freeze

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 c cooked chickpeas (garbanzos) – that’s a 15oz can
  • 1/3 c red onion, coarsely chopped
  • 1 large garlic clove or 3 small, chopped
  • 1 t cumin, coarsely ground
  • 3/4 t salt
  • 1 t turmeric
  • 1 t sumac
  • 2 T ground sesame seed (grind in your spice grinder)
  • 1/2 c cilantro, chopped (including all but toughest stems)
  • juice and zest of one large lemon
  • 2 T olive oil
  • 2 T orange juice (optional)
  • 1/4 c breadcrumbs

Here’s the process Continue reading “Summer Chickpea-Cilantro-Sesame Burgers”