Your 1-Week Meal Plan for a Sharp, Focused Mind

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Feeling like you can't focus on anything as the craziness of the holidays is starting to ramp up? Facing brain fog that just won't budge? The Mediterranean diet just might be able to help. Sure, eating Mediterranean meals is delicious, but it can also offer you a whole host of health benefits. And one key perk of going Med is better brain health, especially as you age. 

We've created a new one-week meal plan that's designed to take the go-to foods of the Mediterranean diet and use them to nourish your brain. With brightly-colored plant-based foods, a whole lot of healthy fats and the addition of nuts and seeds, the recipes included in this plan will give you all of the antioxidants, phytochemicals and anti-inflammatory fats you need for a sharper brain and a more focused mind. Plus, they're delicious! Just take a glance at the vibrant Spanish Chickpea & Red Bell Pepper Soup or Mediterranean Salad. 

Download your shopping list and get the meal plan here »

Want to Make Sure Your Holiday Meals Are Healthy? Try Highlighting These Nutrients

Holiday meals have a bad rap. Sure, they're absolutely delicious – and it's the only time of the year we indulge in classics and plenty of indulgent, sweet treats. But just because you're enjoying all of your favorite seasonal meals doesn't mean your health has to take a backseat. With the right nutrients and a few key ingredients, you can make every dish a little healthier and feed your body what it needs.

We've got all of the advice you need to build a healthy holiday spread from Thanksgiving to New Year's and every gathering in between. We're sharing which nutrients matter most and how you can incorporate them with ease. Just take a look at turkey, for example. This Thanksgiving main is rich in iron, which makes it a great lean meat to enjoy (and you'll get plenty if you treat yourself to Thanksgiving leftovers!). If you add these nutrients into the mix throughout the holiday season, you'll stay satisfied both flavor- and nutrient-wise.

Learn how to make your holiday meal extra-healthy »

The Key to Healthy, Graceful Aging?

These Foods Have All the Nutrients You Need:

Flavonoids Keep Your Brain and Memory Sharper Longer

Here's another reason to eat plenty of fruits and veggies: It'll help your brain age better. Flavonoid-rich foods, which include fresh produce, can help prevent cognitive decline later in life. Find out which foods make the biggest impact.

Black Seed Oil is So Antioxidant-Rich, You've Got to Try It

Have you heard of black seed oil? Both a finishing oil for recipes and a dietary supplement, black seed oil boasts an almost unbelievable nutrient profile. It's packed with antioxidants and can fight inflammation, obesity and more.

These Foods Are Secret Weapons for Better Aging

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What you eat can help you age well in every possible way, from fighting off common diseases to keeping you looking your best. Which foods are the best? Try these 9 foods that feature key nutrients for healthy aging. 

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What we've been reading this week:

Next week is bound to busy with the holiday fast approaching, so why not try Oxygen's must-have pantry staples for hectic weeknights?

If you're feeling tense or sore, Yoga Journal has 8 poses designed to relieve neck pain (and they can even work on headaches!).

Still searching for just the right recipes for your Thanksgiving menu? Try these plant-based ideas from chefs, all curated by Vegetarian Times.

If you're in need of some new side dish inspiration, Vegetarian Times also has all the exciting, fresh veggie sides you'll need for the holidays.

Could eating your veggies really be as easy as taking a pill? Better Nutrition breaks down broccoli supplements and if they're worthwhile.

Oxygen has expert advice that's a must-read right now: Nutritionists sharing their tips for a healthy, happy holiday season.

Looking for something fresh to tune into? Outside shares 3 new documentaries you'll want to stream this weekend. 

RECIPE

You're going to want to keep these delicious gluten-free macaroons handy for the holidays

RECIPE

Make cranberries more than a side in this sweet and seasonal classic clafoutis

RECIPE

This dreamy no-bake "cheesecake" is the perfect dessert for every holiday meal