“I’m finally going to eat Cap’n Crunch every single day.” That was my freshman-year declaration of independence. Growing up, sugary cereals were never allowed in our house. My mom was all about balanced breakfasts and actual nutrients. Meanwhile, I was convinced I’d been deprived of a fundamental childhood joy. So, when I got to college, I exercised my freedom with crunchy bowls of sugar every morning. The irony? My 8 a.m. class was biology. And without fail, I fell asleep. Daily. I swapped my cereal rebellion for protein and fiber and voilà, no more mid-lecture sugar crash. It was devastating to realize my mother was right (again).

This month’s Feature Story, Using Food To Heal: A Look at Anti-Inflammatory and Elimination Diets [page 15], explores how what we eat directly influences inflammation, energy and even immune balance. “Healing the gut is the backbone of my practice,” shares Lorraine Maita, M.D. She cautions against setting unrealistic goals, “We are looking for progress, not perfection. You will never reach perfection—relax. Experiment with it.” Fortunately, I experimented early on and learned that a small tweak in nutrition can have a big impact.

In Insights From The Gut Biome Lab A Conversation With Ravinder Nagpal [at my-NA.com], we learn that the microbiome affects digestion, metabolism and even brain health. “We have a symbiotic relationship with our microbiome,” says Ravinder Nagpal. In other words, when we feed it well, it returns the favor. “Avoid overeating and stay away from ultra-processed foods. Prioritize a nutrient-rich rather than calorie-rich diet, so, for example, have a raw orange or apple rather than fruit juice,” he says. And Fiber’s Fun Side: Delicious Ways To Boost Daily Intake [page 18] reminds us you don’t have to overthink it; just add more plants, more colors, more crunch.

This issue is full of bite-sized inspiration. Explore personalized health insights in Data-Driven Wellness: Functional Lab Testing To Personalize a Healthy Lifestyle [page 24]. Create order and reduce waste in Sustainable Pantry Solutions: Maximize Space, Minimize Waste [page 22]. Support your kids’ focus in The Hydration Habit: Helping Kids Thrive With Every Sip [page 26]. In our online exclusives at my-NA.com: discover how balanced movement supports recovery in Stress-Free Fitness: The Role of the Nervous System in Exercise Recovery; learn how to ease dietary discomfort in pets in Pet Reactions to Food; and find inspiration for new beginnings in Gardening Our Dreams.

Sometimes rebellion leads us right back to wisdom.

Crunch thoughtfully,

Kris Urquhart
Publisher