One thing I’ve been noticing lately on social media is a reference to “struggle meals”. These are easy, economical meals to make when money (and time) is tight. Often these meals start out with staple foods with protein like beans, cheese, canned tuna, peanut butter and eggs and then add in or have with starches and vegetables.

Here are some ideas of typical “struggle meals:” 

Alpha-Gal Syndrome, also known as mammalian meat allergy, is an allergy to meat. This allergy develops after a Lone Star tick bite causes a reaction in the immune system. This condition is becoming more common in the Southeast.

One of the most underappreciated parts of some of the foods we eat is fiber. Fiber can:

• Make us feel more full and satisfied.

• Help with digestion and gut health.

• Reduce "bad" cholesterol 

Question: I have been having issues with constipation and my doctor told me to get more fiber in my diet.  What foods have fiber and how much should I get? 

Question:  I’m really good about eating vegetables in the summer when more of them are in season locally and when I have my own garden, but in the winter I know I fall short.

One of my resolutions for 2024 is to try and incorporate more beans into our weekly meals.