NewsWorthY
Dana Nahai is an accomplished authority on nutrition science and wellness with published written and video content. Check here for recent and notable media coverage.
FEATURED IN WELL+GOoD | February 5, 2019
”7 Herbs for inflammation to start sprinklinG InTO your DieT.”
Considering its rap sheet, it’s not surprising that battling inflammation has been a hot topic for quite some time now. Although there a slew of tactics you can use—some of the easiest and most potent to work into your daily routine are herbs. For a full rundown of the ones to stock in your home to help deal with inflammation, I spoke to Care/of‘s integrative physician Jeffrey Gladd, MD, and Dana Nahai, RDN. It’s good intel to take to your doctor, who you should consult before starting any new treatment regimen.
Ready to spice things up? Here are 7 herbs for inflammation and how each one can help soothe your system.
1. Ginger
2. Rosemary
3. Turmeric
4. Cinnamon
5. Yarrow
6. Fenugreek
7. Chili Peppers
FEATURED IN NET-A-PORTER | January 21, 2019
“HOW TO FEEL MORE CALM”
“Research has shown that when cells are exposed to stress, adaptogens stimulate the central nervous system to help promote a sense of calm,” says Atlanta-based dietitian and nutritionist Dana Nahai, who reveals the benefits include combating fatigue and depression, and leaving us feeling more settled while still alert.
FEATURED IN BON APPETIT: HEALTHYISH.com | December 28, 2018
“Why You Shouldn't Start a Cleanse on January 1st”
“I’m thinking of doing a cleanse,” is a refrain I hear a lot this time of year. As a dietitian, I know my clients like the idea of “cleansing” because it makes them feel healthier while avoiding the hard work that’s required for real dietary changes.
The trouble is, there is scientifically no such thing as a cleanse. Diet books and wellness brands will make us believe that our bodies have fallen asleep on the job and are desperately in need of a spa day. Cleanse programs tell us that we must purge to atone for the overindulgences of the holidays. By restricting calories and giving inflammatory foods the boot, a cleanse mimics health but it doesn’t mirror real eating. Because, when the cleanse is done, you’re left with a dilemma: how to confront the eating patterns and behaviors that cued your need for a cleanse in the first place. Here’s why you should ditch the cleanse and what to do instead.
FEATURED IN BON APPETIT: HEALTHYISH.com | December 3, 2018
“How to stop eating sugar?”
I’m a Dietitian and I’m Here to Tell You You’re Not Going to Stop Eating Sugar
You need to limit added sugar for the sake of your health, but if you're trying to cut it completely, it's time to relax. Let’s start by admitting you like sugar. Perhaps you’re hardcore and into Skittles, Lemon Drops, and Pixy Stix. Or you’re a lesser devotee who just won't let a doughnut pass you by. Or maybe you’re the delusional type who says, “I completely gave up sugar; I only use honey now.” It’s okay; you’re not alone.
FEATURED IN WEll+good | November 24, 2018
”EVER WONDERED ABOUT ANISE? HERE ARE 5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF THE LICORICE-LIKE SPICE”
“Anise is a culinary cousin of caraway, cumin, and dill,” says Dana Nahai, RDN. “The flavor profile of anise will range from fruity to bitter depending on the variety of the plant.” She adds that it’s an ingredient that’s been used across cultures for thousands of years.
“The anti-inflammatory effect of anise is both historically and scientifically documented,” Nahai says, citing a study that showed that anise capsules improved symptoms in people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
5 Health Benefits of Anise
1. It’s anti-inflammatory
2. It can help keep you regular
3. It’s an antimicrobial superstar
4. It could be an immune system booster
5. Anise has unique phenylpropanoids (AKA health multitaskers)
Learn more about the benefits of anise by reading full article.
FEATURED IN WEll and good | November 17, 2018
"BEFORE YOU JUMP ON THE GINSENG BANDWAGON, BE SURE YOU KNOW ITS BENEFITS—AND SIDE EFFECTS"
As more people around the world start working with the plant, it’s important to understand both how it can boost your health, as well as its side effects, says Dana Nahai, RDN. First of all, when speaking about ginseng, Nahai notes that we’re talking about a specific Panax variety, which is native to China, Korea, and North America.
“It’s bitter on the palate, and the pharmacological effect is far more potent when used as a tea, tincture, or powder than when infused, fried, or eaten raw,” she says.
And when you’re looking for the herb, “quality and bioavailability count for everything,” she explains, adding that you should do your research on the herb or supplement before you buy it. The registered dietitian nutritionist advises buying the whole root intact.
Ginseng’s Supercharged Benefits
1. It combats inflammation
2. It’s a potentially natural stimulant for focus and attention
3. It could improve sex drive in both women and men
4. It could prevent and alleviate side effects of cancer.
5. It can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes
6. It helps prevent and combat the flu
Learn more about ginseng benefits and potential side effects in full article.
