Gut health doesn’t only have to do with the digestive tract and how it functions. The term has come to mean a state of physical and mental wellbeing enabled by what occurs within the digestive tract — including the activities of the 38 trillion microorganisms (bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses) that support the healthy functioning of the human body.

Food additives may be natural or synthetic. For example, vitamin C is a natural preservative. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are synthetic preservatives. To ensure your safety, both the natural and synthetic food additives used in the United States come only from the group of substances known as the generally recognized as safe (GRAS) list.

People have been fasting (in other words, not eating for a while) for centuries to prevent disease and strengthen the body. Fasting is also a safe way to lose weight.This Cheat Sheet gives you an overview of the basic principles of fasting, including what you should and shouldn't drink, so you can implement it into your routine and start your journey toward more vibrant health.

Nutrition is the science of how your body uses the food and drink you consume to build new tissues and power every organ and part from your brain down to your toes. Get the most from your daily diet by making healthy choices. © ARTFULLY PHOTOGRAPHER / Shutterstock.comHow to Cut Calories the Easy WayYes, it’s hard to control your weight.

A diet can be successful or disastrous, depending on your dieting approach. Start by finding your healthy weight range to establish a goal for your diet. Study some facts about calories and fat, and follow a few simple tips to make your eating habits healthier and your diet will become a lifestyle — which will lead to weight loss.

Before you start the 5:2 Diet or any other fast, make sure you talk to your physician or health professional about fasting, its benefits and drawbacks, and the status of your health. What days and times to fast The 5:2 Diet prescribes two days of modified fasting and five days free from calorie counting. When deciding which days during the week to fast, understand that you may have to be flexible.

What is a serving size for fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and fats and sweets? Determine serving-size equivalents and exercise portion control and you'll ensure proper nutrition -- and even lose weight if need be.