The countdown for summer is on, and for many of us, that means replenishing our tan ahead of beach days and backyard cookouts. While plenty turn to self-tanners (the global self-tan market is expected to surpass $1 billion this year), others still prefer soaking up the sun. But natural tanning comes with risks—UV rays don’t just give you a glow; they also increase the risk of premature aging and skin cancer, which is why sunscreen and sun safety are non-negotiable. Sun beds, too, pose similar...

Earlier this year, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it was banning Red Dye No. 3, a bright, cherry-red dye used in everything from bubble gum to ice pops to fruity cocktails. The reason? Some experts believe the vivid food dye actually has a very dark side. In fact, some are concerned it might increase the risk of cancer. But the evidence on the link between Red Dye No. 3 and cancer isn’t actually clearcut. In the 1990s, one study on rats suggested there might be a link....

Serotonin is vital for our mental health. If we don’t have enough of this particular hormone, we may feel depressed, fatigued, anxious, and have trouble sleeping, which can seriously impact our quality of life. Right now, in the US, around 21 million Americans are facing depression; for many, this is associated with low serotonin. Of course, one of the most common methods to increase serotonin is to take a type of antidepressant medication called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor...

Preeclampsia—a serious pregnancy complication—affects between five and eight percent of expectant mothers in the US, putting both mom and baby at risk. While age, genetics, and overall health play a role, research suggests that what a mother eats could be just as important. Could nutrition be a secret weapon in lowering the risk? We turned to food scientist and nutrition expert Jennifer Pallian, RD, to find out. What is preeclampsia? Preeclampsia often develops around the 20-week mark of...