Defining Real

When we talk about "real food vs. processed food," it's easy to get confused. We're not referring to freshly baked bread or neatly packaged goods. We mean food in its most natural state: fresh produce, meat, nuts, legumes, and beans[1]. Modern life has us reaching for convenience — processed foods. But behind their health-promising labels lies a stark reality. Have you noticed how our health and physique as a population have changed drastically in the past few decades?...

Great-tasting meat isn't just a result of the cut or the quality but a harmony of flavor and cooking techniques. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, these tips will assist you in taking your meat dishes to the next level of culinary excellence.

1. Celebrate the Fat

Fatty cuts like chicken thighs or rib-eye are the most flavorful favorites, thanks to marbling. Plus, they're less prone to drying out. Embrace these cuts and let the healthy fats do their magic!

2. Marinade, Rub,...

Embarking on a journey towards healthier eating is a powerful commitment. Whether you're a single parent maintaining your kids' well-being and happiness or sharing an empty nest with a partner who loves potatoes as much as you love greens, you can find harmony. Follow these simple tips to stay true to your wellness goals without imposing on your family's culinary favorites.

Shared Meals, Diverse Diets

Consider mealtime as a home-based, a la carte restaurant. Serve buffet-style meals, allowing...

A Guide to Saving Money Without Sacrificing Nutrition

Healthy eating and budgeting may seem like two conflicting goals. However, with the right approach, you can enjoy a nutritious diet without breaking the bank. At Ovvia® Wellness, we're committed to helping you navigate these challenges. Here are ten tips to help you eat healthily on a budget:

1. Plan Your Meals Around Re-Using Ingredients - "Buy it once, use it twice" is a great principle[1]. Planning meals around reusable ingredients...

Simple Ways to Master Midlife Metabolism

Everyone's weight loss journey is unique, primarily influenced by seven biological mechanisms that regulate body weight. After decades of personal struggle, I found that incorporating five consistent habits sparked a transformative health journey, resulting in a weight loss of 75 pounds, even at now that I'm 56 years old!

Consistent Daily Exercise: Exercise must be an integral part of our daily routine[1], like brushing our teeth. With age, our...

Why are some food additives allowed in the United States but banned in other countries? Several controversial ingredients are still permitted in the US food supply, despite being restricted or banned elsewhere. Here are the top additives you'll want to avoid and look out for in our food supply and where they're commonly found.

# 1 Artificial Food Dyes

Linked to hyperactivity in children and potential carcinogenic effects [1]. These food colors are banned or labeled with warnings in the...

As Memorial Day approaches, the excitement of summer begins! How can you make the most of this three-day holiday weekend while staying healthy and enjoying yourself? We've got you covered with these simple tips:

Stay Hydrated

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you're spending time outdoors in the sun[1].
• Opt for refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages like infused water or iced tea to keep you cool and hydrated.

Choose Healthy Grilling Options

• Opt for lean meats, such as...

Understanding European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Guidelines

Synthetic fibers are common in many packaged foods and supplements in the United States. However, Europe is more cautious, with the safety of synthetic fibers remaining under scrutiny. Ovvia® refers to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidelines as the FDA is still updating its regulations.

Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers

Natural fibers originate from whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole...

Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner, and it's time to prepare for a fun-filled holiday! While festivities often involve delicious food and drinks, enjoying the celebration without compromising your health is possible. Here are five tips to help you maintain your wellness goals during the holiday weekend:

1. Opt for Fresh Veggies Over Chips: Instead of reaching for high-fat chips, choose vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots for snacking. These fiber-rich and nutrient-dense...

Fast-food chicken, particularly grilled chicken, is often considered healthy. However, this is not always the case. You may want to avoid fast-food chicken altogether; I stopped eating it.

Top Five Reasons Why:

#1: High-Fat Content: Fast-food chicken is often fried, coated with flour, breading, and cooked at high temperatures in unhealthy oils. This cooking process causes extra fat to accumulate in the meat. Even grilled and crispy chicken versions contain high amounts of fat due to the...