Keep on Truckin'! Join Health Plus each Wednesday from 11:00am-2:00pm for food trucks behind Light Hall! Each week features two trucks and a Health Plus "Healthy Pick" from each menu to help support the healthy lifestyle practices of the Vanderbilt community. Food Truck Schedule:

You may have heard about all the must-eat fermented foods on the market, the coconut oil craze or daily apple cider vinegar tonics. Everywhere we turn, we are bombarded by food advertisements and nutrition claims, some true, others more of the science fiction sort. Read on to learn about a few of the most current food trends and become a more well-informed consumer!

Recently, the gluten-free diet has become extremely popular. Once considered specialty items, gluten-free products are now available in most grocery stores. However, does the term "gluten-free" make something healthier? Here we will talk about what gluten is, when a gluten-free diet is needed, and its potential weaknesses.
 
 What is gluten?

How Much Sodium Do You Need?

Tasty and nutritious, seafood can shake up your meal routine and be beneficial to your overall health. It is a good source of lean protein and many essential vitamins and minerals. It is also lower in saturated fat than red meat, making it a heart healthy choice. Plus, it can be used in a variety of ways!
 
 What does seafood have to offer?

Lean Mean Plant Protein and the Benefits
 
 When we think about protein sources, we often think of meat. It makes sense: protein is what helps us build muscle, the "meat on our bones." However, there is another category of high protein foods found in certain plant-based sources. Plant proteins such as beans, peas, lentils, and soy have many beneficial qualities that can help boost your health. 
 
 What are the Benefits of Plant Protein? 

What Exactly is Fat?
 
 Fat is one of three macronutrients that make up the foods we eat. It gives the body energy to support cell growth, keep us warm, and protect the organs. Fat also helps with nutrient absorption and hormone production. There are three categories of fat: saturated, trans, and unsaturated. Each type differs chemically and physically, but all fat has 9 calories per gram, which is more than twice as many calories as carbohydrates and protein. 
 
 Saturated Fat

​From Balcony to Table: Growing a Container Garden
 
 If you've ever wanted to grow your own food but thought you needed more space, you'll be glad to know growing a garden does not require a yard! There are several benefits of growing a container garden and it may be easier than you think. Use the following tips and steps for a successful, low-maintenance garden! 
 
 Benefits of Growing a Container Garden 

Shopping for healthy foods can seem difficult, especially when you are on a tight budget. Being prepared can help you choose healthy, low-cost foods and avoid unintended purchases. Use these wallet-friendly tips to eat great without breaking the bank.

There seems to be a lot of buzz about the dairy group lately. You may be asking yourself, "How much should I be eating?" "Is it good for me or should I avoid it?" "What if I am allergic or intolerant?" Dairy is considered one of the 5 food groups, but not everyone can tolerate it. Below you will find the answers to some of your questions!
 
 What is dairy?