My functional medicine doctor reviews my bloodwork every six months. I can't hide anything! She always knows if I’ve eaten out too much, indulged in breads or bagels, or had a little too much sugar. It’s not just the obvious culprits—those hidden inflammatory oils are sneaky. As Marlaina Donato explains in Cooking With Healthy Oils [page 20], “When eating out, be mindful that most salad dressings and marinades are likely to contain highly processed, inflammatory oils.” That’s why I try to make better choices, but let’s be honest—sometimes, that side of ranch is just calling my name.

It turns out the oils we cook with at home make just as much difference. Not all fats are villains—some are actually superheroes for our health. Donato writes, “Healthy oils can quell chronic, systemic inflammation—a condition that significantly exacerbates the risks of cardiovascular illness, autoimmune conditions and neurodegenerative diseases.” Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, and walnut oil are among the best choices for overall well-being. But many store-bought avocado oils are cut with cheaper seed oils, turning every grocery trip into a detective mission.

As much as I try to make good choices, I know that what works for one person might not work for another. As Monique Ryan explains in Personalized Nutrition [page 15], “Anyone can go on the internet and find a generic anti-inflammatory diet, but what causes inflammation varies from person to person.” She recommends food sensitivity testing and evaluating health history, genetics, and lifestyle to create a truly customized approach.

This month, we’re serving up a full plate of food and nutrition wisdom. The Well-Adjusted Teenager highlights how mindful eating supports teen mental health [page 18], while Canine Gut Health explores how a nutrient-rich diet supports digestive health for our furry companions [page 26]. Sober-Curious examines the benefits of cutting back on alcohol [page 28], and Drought-Resistant Gardening offers tips on cultivating a thriving, water-wise landscape [page 30]. Finally, in Judith Cruz on A Holistic Approach to Food Insecurity, Judith Cruz, president and CEO of the Treasure Coast Food Bank, reminds us that access to healthy food is essential for building strong communities [page 24]. I hope this month’s content inspires you to make healthy choices—one bite at a time.

Here’s to making every bite count!

Kris Urquhart, Publisher