Peachy Takes Your Questions

FAQ

On Inflammation

Question: Is there something I can eat that reduces inflammation in the body? 

Yes! Think of your plate as a natural pharmacy. To lower inflammation, I recommend the 'Big Three': Omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon and walnuts), antioxidants from deeply colored berries, and polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil. A simple daily habit? Swap one processed snack for a handful of walnuts or a bowl of blueberries. It’s not about a 'detox'—it's about consistent, colorful choices.

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On Heart Health

Question: How can I lower my cholesterol with diet alone? 

The secret weapon for cholesterol is Soluble Fiber. It acts like a sponge in your digestive tract, soaking up cholesterol before it hits your bloodstream. I tell my students to focus on the 'Power O's': Oats, Okra, and Oranges. Aim for 5–10 grams of soluble fiber a day—that’s as simple as having oatmeal for breakfast and adding a side of beans to your dinner.

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On Gut Health

Question: How much fiber do I actually need to stop feeling bloated?

Most adults only get about 15g, but for a happy gut, we want to hit 25g for women and 38g for men. However, the trick is to 'go low and slow.' If you increase your fiber too fast without drinking enough water, you’ll actually feel more bloated. Add one high-fiber food (like chia seeds or lentils) every three days and keep that water bottle handy!

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On Protein & Muscle

Question: How do I hit my protein goals without eating meat at every meal?

Plant proteins are your best friend here! I love using tempeh, tofu, and edamame—they are 'complete' proteins, meaning they have all the amino acids your muscles need. In my classes, we often whisk up a savory soy-based sauce (like the one you saw me making!) to pour over quinoa and black beans. That combo gives you a massive protein punch without the saturated fat of red meat.

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On Ultra-Processed Foods (UPF)

Question: How do I identify 'Ultra-Processed Foods' on a label?

Don’t let the front of the box fool you! Turn it over and look at the ingredient list. If you see items you wouldn’t find in a home kitchen—like high-fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, or artificial emulsifiers—it’s likely ultra-processed. My rule of thumb: If the ingredient list looks like a chemistry final, put it back and look for 'whole-food' alternatives.