It’s fascinating to see how dietary recommendations have evolved over the years. My grade school classrooms were plastered with that colorful food pyramid emphasizing starches and grains for optimal nutrition. Now, I essentially equate carbs with an evil, inflammatory and fat-producing monster. I’m not saying that’s the right attitude because I think there are healthy grains, and balance is important to me. We didn’t always get it right, but the path was paved with good intentions and the science is ever-evolving. My mantra for simplicity these days is to just eat “real” food.

But it isn’t always so simple. The main feature this month on “Nutrition Upgrades” explores how various foods can potentially interfere with and/or promote microbiome balance in the gut. And this becomes so important when 70 percent of the immune system relies on optimal gut health. The business profiled this month, “Go With Your Gut Testing”, offers personalized sensitivity testing for up to 500 foods that may be contributing to inflammation in the gut and related illnesses. I’ve heard countless stories of autoimmune disorders and other diseases directly related to a particular, seemingly benign food. It’s a worthwhile investment in one’s optimal wellness. Finally, it’s more than just what we are eating. Our lifestyles and behaviors surrounding food all intermingle to create an optimal nutrition profile for both ourselves and the planet.

In this month’s Green Living section, we advocate for water conservation. March 22 is World Water Day, a time to take stock of water scarcity, the top long-term global risk for the next decade. How can we reduce our water footprint? Learn helpful and practical everyday solutions and take action!

Best, Michelle