The number of people identifying themselves as following a vegan diet in the US more than doubled between 2009 and 2013, going from 1% of the population to over 2%.1 Just like vegetarians, people who follow a vegan diet do not consume meat. Along with not eating meat, vegans also stay away from any item that is an animal product such as leather, honey, eggs, dairy, non-cruelty free cosmetics, and fur. There are a variety of reasons people chose to follow a vegan diet, including ethical, health and environmental impacts. With so many grocery stores and restaurants offering vegan options, eating vegan is easier than ever.

If your body isn’t producing important thyroid hormones, you are said to have and underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism. EAT SMARTER will explain what causes this disease, how to prevent it and what you should be taken into account with regards to a proper diet with hypothyroidism.

What are superfoods? Can they help you lose weight? We will help you navigate these questions throughout the course of this article. You may have heard the term superfoods in regard to goji berries or avocados or flaxseed or any other trending health food. The term superfood simply refers to a food item that is rich in dietary nutrients or contains a particularly high quantity of specific nutrients such as antioxidants. For example, quinoa can be considered a superfood because it is a complete protein. The package of gummy worms hiding in your cupboard? Not a superfood.