Articles by Kathleen Zelman

Iron is a mineral that plays many roles in human health, including supporting metabolism, growth and immunity.

Mercury is considered the most toxic heavy metal in the environment and, according to the World Health Organization, one of the top 10 chemicals of public health concern.

An essential mineral for dental health, fluoride has been added to water in the U.S. for more than 70 years. Despite research on its safety and efficacy, fluoridation sparks a heated debate.

Determined to be an essential nutrient for humans in 1963, zinc is an antioxidant and trace mineral that we need to consume daily, since our bodies cannot store it. Zinc primarily is involved in supporting

Essential to many of the body’s regulatory and metabolic functions, selenium is part of at least 25 proteins called selenoproteins, many of which are oxidant defense enzymes. Roles in health Selenium is involved in reproduction,

Chromium’s primary function appears to be enhancing the action of insulin, which plays a role in carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism and storage.

An essential micronutrient not commonly found in food, iodine is needed for the synthesis of thyroid hormones and is critical for normal neurodevelopment in utero.

The third most-abundant mineral in the human body, potassium is an electrolyte, regulating fluid balance by transferring nutrients and waste in and out of cells.

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, with the majority found in the skeleton and the rest in muscle, soft tissue and blood.

Fried foods traditionally have been limited in healthy dietary patterns. But when you use small amounts of healthy unsaturated oils and the technology of an air fryer, fried foods can be back on the menu.

Often described as “vitamin-like” for its water soluble vitamin properties, choline is a unique micronutrient that is crucial for many biological functions.

Emulsifiers made from plant, animal and synthetic sources commonly are added to processed foods such as mayonnaise, ice cream and baked goods to create a smooth texture, prevent separation and extend shelf life.

With today’s desire for less adulterated foods, some question the need for and safety of color additives.

Processed foods that sit on supermarket shelves for a while would deteriorate if certain food additives were not included. Humectants and anticaking agents contribute to consumer expectations for quality and performance of favorite foods if certain

Consumers demand a certain quality and eating experience from processed foods. This is achieved, in part, by the addition of stabilizers, thickeners and gelling agents, which give foods consistent texture, taste and mouth feel. Definition

An ancient practice designed to prevent spoilage, among the first food preservation practices were the salting of meat and fish, adding sugar in canned foods and pickling vegetables. Today, preservatives continue this important role. Definition

Few ingredients cause as much confusion, or consternation, as food additives. For some, it might be the long chemical names found on labels, uncertainty of how the use of additives is regulated or skepticism in

Whole foods are the hallmark of a healthful diet — not to mention a resounding message from the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. But the whole foods movement is manifesting in other areas of nutrition