About
Dr. Sarah Chen is a board-certified nutritionist and wellness researcher with over 15 years of experience in evidence-based dietary science. She holds a PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry from Stanford University and has published over 40 peer-reviewed papers on micronutrient metabolism and dietary interventions.
Articles by Dr.
Absorption
The process by which nutrients from digested food pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream.
The Mediterranean Diet: Why Doctors Recommend It Most
Explore the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, including heart protection, brain health, and longevity, with a 7-day starter meal plan.
The Complete Guide to Nutrition: Eating for Optimal Health
Everything you need to know about evidence-based nutrition, from macronutrients and micronutrients to meal planning and dietary patterns that promote long-term health.
Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin You Are Probably Missing
Up to 42% of adults are vitamin D deficient. Learn the signs, optimal dosing, food sources, and when supplementation is necessary.
Intermittent Fasting: What the Science Actually Shows
A balanced look at intermittent fasting research, including who it helps, potential risks, and how to try it safely.
Hydration: How Much Water Do You Really Need?
The 8-glasses-a-day rule is a myth. Learn how to calculate your actual hydration needs based on body weight, activity, and climate.
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)
The number of calories your body needs at rest to maintain basic life-sustaining functions like breathing and circulation.
Cholesterol
A waxy substance in blood needed for cell building. High levels of LDL cholesterol increase heart disease risk.
Dopamine
A neurotransmitter that plays roles in pleasure, motivation, movement, and reward-driven learning.
Free Radical
An unstable molecule that can damage cells through oxidation, contributing to aging and disease when not balanced by antioxidants.
Hypothyroidism
A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity.
Lymphatic System
A network of tissues and organs that helps rid the body of toxins and waste, playing a key role in immune defense.
Digestive Enzymes: Who Needs Them and How They Work
Digestive enzyme supplements are popular but not universally needed. Who genuinely benefits and what the evidence shows.
Nutrient Density
The ratio of beneficial nutrients to calories in a food. Nutrient-dense foods provide more vitamins and minerals per calorie.
Food Combining Myths: What Science Actually Says
Food combining diets claim certain foods should not be eaten together. Digestive physiology explains why most of these rules are baseless.
Quercetin
A plant flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, found in onions, apples, and berries, studied for allergy relief.
Vitamin C for Immune Function: Dosage, Sources, and Limits
Vitamin C is essential for immune function, but mega-doses do not provide extra protection. Optimal intake and best food sources.
Zinc for Immune Health: Benefits, Dosage, and Cold Duration
Zinc can shorten cold duration when taken early. Optimal forms, dosage, and the risks of taking too much.
Vitamin D and Immunity: The Sunshine Vitamin's Critical Role
Low vitamin D is linked to increased infection risk. Testing, supplementation, and how much sun exposure you actually need.
Thyroid
A butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones regulating metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature.