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Nutrition

Potatoes may increase risk of type 2 diabetes—depending on their preparation

Three servings weekly of French fries increased the risk of developing T2D by 20%. Baked, boiled, and mashed potatoes were not significantly associated with T2D risk.

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French fries were associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D), while other forms of potatoes—including baked, boiled, and mashed—were not, according to a new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The study also found that swapping any form of potato for whole grains may lower the risk of T2D.

According to the researchers, while previous studies hinted at a link between potatoes and T2D, the evidence was inconsistent and often lacked detail on cooking methods and the potential effects of substituting other foods for potatoes. “Our study offers deeper, more comprehensive insights by looking at different types of potatoes, tracking diet over decades, and exploring the effects of swapping potatoes for other foods,” said lead author Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Nutrition. “We’re shifting the conversation from, ‘Are potatoes good or bad?’ to a more nuanced—and useful—question: How are they prepared, and what might we eat instead?”

The researchers examined the diets and diabetes outcomes of 205,107 men and women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study, Nurses’ Health Study II, and Health Professionals Follow-up Study. For more than 30 years, participants regularly responded to dietary questionnaires, detailing the frequency with which they consumed certain foods, including French fries; baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes; and whole grains. They also reported on new health diagnoses, including T2D, and various other health, lifestyle, and demographic factors, which the researchers controlled for. Over the course of the study period, 22,299 participants reported that they developed T2D.

The study found that three servings weekly of French fries increased the risk of developing T2D by 20%. Baked, boiled, and mashed potatoes were not significantly associated with T2D risk. The researchers calculated, however, that eating whole grains—such as whole grain pasta, bread, or farro—in place of baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes could reduce the risk of T2D by 4%. Replacing French fries with whole grains could bring T2D risk down by 19%. Even swapping refined grains for French fries was estimated to lower T2D risk.

The researchers complemented their study with a novel meta-analytic approach to estimate how swapping potatoes for whole grains could affect the risk of T2D, using data from previously published cohort studies. This involved two separate meta-analyses: one based on data from 13 cohorts examining potato intake and the other from 11 cohorts on whole grain intake, each encompassing over 500,000 participants and 43,000 T2D diagnoses across four continents. The results were closely consistent with those of the new study.

“The public health message here is simple and powerful: Small changes in our daily diet can have an important impact on risk of type 2 diabetes. Limiting potatoes—especially limiting French fries—and choosing healthy, whole grain sources of carbohydrate could help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes across the population,” said corresponding author Walter Willett, professor of epidemiology and nutrition.

“For policymakers, our findings highlight the need to move beyond broad food categories and pay closer attention to how foods are prepared and what they’re replacing. Not all carbs—or even all potatoes—are created equal, and that distinction is crucial when it comes to shaping effective dietary guidelines.”

“Total and specific potato intake and risk of type 2 diabetes: results from three US cohort studies and a substitution meta-analysis of prospective cohorts,” by Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, Xiao Gu, Fumiaki Imamura, Hala B. AlEssa, Orrin Devinsky, Qi Sun, Frank B. Hu, JoAnn E. Manson, Eric B. Rimm, Nita G. Forouhi, and Walter C. Willett, appeared in The BMJ.

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Nutrition

Protein-packed sweet treats

These days, sticking to your wellness goals doesn’t have to mean missing out on delicious, sweet treats.

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Beach vacations, backyard barbecues and long road trips make summer a season of spontaneity. Often cited as memory-making moments, these unplanned adventures can also make it a challenge to stay on track with your health. These days, sticking to your wellness goals doesn’t have to mean missing out on delicious, sweet treats.

When summer throws you off your routine, reach for convenient sources of high-quality protein, like Premier Protein High Protein Shakes. With 30 grams of protein, 160 calories and 1 gram of sugar, you don’t have to choose between summer fun and nutrition. These summer shakes bring joy back to the health journey as easy and delicious grab-and-go solutions, putting a healthier, happier lifestyle within reach. Not to mention the shake’s 24 vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and E, which help support a healthy immune system as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.

The fan-favorite shakes are best enjoyed as part of a nourishing breakfast, afternoon snack, post-workout boost or as an ingredient in a protein-packed recipe. There’s something for every taste bud, with more than 12 flavors including fan-favorites Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel and Cafe Latte. If you’re interested in trying summertime recipes that taste indulgent and pack a protein punch, consider these tasty treats.

When the sun is beating down and the only reprieve is an ice cold refreshment, let this twist on frosted lemonade be your escape from the heat. With fruity flavor and added protein, Frosted Peach Lemonade allows you to travel to a tropical island from the comfort of home.

From hot days to cool nights, Premier Protein delivers the perfect solution for the classic bonfire indulgence with Protein Marshmallow S’mores. Your new summer classic, this unexpected s’more hack lets you embrace a sticky treat without sacrificing your nutritional goals.

With nutrition that works for you, delicious recipes and nutrition tools help make the ride smoother and more enjoyable as a fun reminder the health journey doesn’t have to be daunting. With easy-to-understand nutritionals, Premier Protein High Protein Shakes deliver tasty fuel for whatever comes next, giving you the confidence to reach your goals and be the best version of yourself without missing summer’s special moments.

To find more information and protein-packed recipes that’ll help keep your summer health goals on track, visit PremierProtein.com.

Frosted Peach Lemonade

2          scoops Premier Protein Vanilla Milkshake 100% Whey Protein Powder
1          cup lemonade
1          cup frozen peach slices

In blender, blend protein powder, lemonade and frozen peach slices until smooth.

Protein Marshmallow S’mores

2          cups Premier Protein Vanilla High Protein Shake
5          tablespoons gelatin
3          scoops Premier Protein Vanilla Milkshake 100% Whey Protein Powder
3          graham crackers
3          chocolate bars

Add protein shake to small saucepan and layer gelatin on top. Let set 5-10 minutes (gelatin will start to “bloom”).

Over low heat, whisk mixture periodically until consistency thins.

Pour into mixing bowl and allow to cool 5-10 minutes until mixture is warm, not hot.

Add protein powder; whisk 10-20 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Mixture should not break and fall immediately when whisk is lifted.

Pour mixture into lined pan and allow to set in refrigerator.

Slice and serve alone or with graham crackers and chocolate bars.

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Nutrition

Power your summer with 100% orange juice

Consider these unexpected ways Florida Orange Juice can help power your day.

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Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hitting the trails for a family hike or bike ride, exposure to summer heat can leave you feeling dehydrated and fatigued.

Comprised of nearly 90% water and delivering essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, 100% orange juice can serve as a healthy complement to your hydration routine. These electrolytes are crucial in helping to maintain fluid balance and muscle function regardless of the time of year, but they’re especially important during the warmer summer months when you are exerting more.

Consider these unexpected ways Florida Orange Juice can help power your day.

Support Immunity
100% orange juice isn’t just a tasty drink; it’s also packed with essential nutrients that support your immune system. An 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, plus it provides key nutrients such as folate, potassium and thiamin, as well as vitamin D and calcium (in fortified juices), that help support the immune system all year long.

Add Healthy Flavor to Meals
Fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free with no added sugar, 100% orange juice is a healthy addition to any diet, adding a burst of flavor to favorite dishes. Consider using Florida Orange Juice as part of the marinade in these Orange Juice Citrus Chicken Kebabs or as a base for salad dressings to create a perfect balance that will delight your taste buds.

Electrolyte and Hydration Support
With many kids participating in summer sports and other outdoor demands on families during the warmer months, it can be difficult to provide your family with healthy, hydrating beverages. However, an option like this On-the-Go Orange Juice Sports Drink helps to replenish carbohydrates and electrolytes during and after physical activity, such as running, biking, exercising or playing sports.

Find more nutritious and delicious recipes to keep your family energized during summer activities at FloridaJuice.com.

Orange Juice Citrus Chicken Kebabs
Recipe courtesy of Aaron Himrod on behalf of the Florida Department of Citrus
Servings: 8 (2 kebabs per serving)

1          large Florida Orange, zest only
1          lime, zest only
1/2       teaspoon ground thyme
2          tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4       teaspoon granulated garlic
1          teaspoon salt
            white pepper, to taste
1          cup Florida Orange Juice
1          cup lemon-lime soda
2          pounds chicken tenders
8          wooden skewers

To make marinade: In medium mixing bowl, combine orange zest; lime zest; thyme; oil; garlic; salt; white pepper, to taste; orange juice; and soda.

Add chicken and completely coat with marinade. Cover bowl and place in refrigerator at least 1 hour.

Soak wooden skewers in water 20-30 minutes.

To make kebabs: Remove chicken from fridge and lace through each skewer using weaving motion. Repeat for all chicken tenders and set aside.

When skewers are prepared, drizzle extra marinade over chicken.

Heat grill to medium. Place chicken on grill. Cover and cook 3 minutes per side, or until center of meat reaches internal temperature of 170 F.

Remove from grill and serve immediately, or cover with foil and serve later.

Tips: Cover kebabs with foil for at least 20 minutes after cooking to trap in flavor and juices.

Add vegetables to kebabs, if desired, to increase flavor.

On-the-Go Orange Juice Sports Drink
Recipe courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus
Servings: 1

8          ounces Florida Orange Juice
8          ounces water
1          pinch salt

Mix orange juice and water.

Add pinch of salt.

Pour into small bottle or reusable pouch.

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Nutrition

Fall for flavor: The new Maple Cloud Cream Collection is here to sweeten, only at Seattle’s Best Coffee

Bold, smooth, and lightly sweet maple flavor, these drinks are crafted for those craving a cozy twist to their usual coffee. 

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Seattle’s Best Coffee is introducing the new Maple Cloud Cream Collection, a limited-edition trio of espresso-based drinks topped with maple-infused foam. Bold, smooth, and lightly sweet maple flavor, these drinks are crafted for those craving a cozy twist to their usual coffee. 

Available starting August 18, 2025, the Maple Cloud Cream Collection offers a limited-edition experience that captures fall-in-a-cup, whether you prefer your coffee hot or iced.

What Makes the Maple Cloud Collection Special?

  • A Maple Moment in Every Blend – At the center of the collection is the Maple Cloud Cream — an airy foam blended with maple flavor. It gently tops each drink, adding a light texture that highlights the delightful notes of the coffee.
  • Crafted for a Multi-Sensory Experience – From the soft foam crowning the iced coffee to the subtle sweetness that lingers, each drink strikes a balance between comfort and caffeine that’s ideal for slow mornings or cool afternoons.
  • Three Signature Creations to Match Any Mood – Whether you like it bold, creamy or somewhere in between, there’s a Maple Cloud drink made just for you. 

Meet the Maple Cloud Lineup:

  • Iced Maple Americano – Classic espresso flavor paired with maple-infused cream for a lighter, smoother finish.
  • Iced Maple Breve – Rich and creamy, this blend of half-and-half, maple foam, and espresso is an indulgent treat with a caffeinated kick. 
  • Iced Maple Latte – Smooth milk, espresso and a comforting maple twist in cloud cream for a satisfying finish.

All drinks are also available in hot — perfect for rainy-day cravings or cool evenings.

This collection goes beyond the usual iced coffee — it’s a maple experience made to uplift and comfort, one cup at a time. 

The Maple Cloud Collection is now available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, or delivery via GrabFood and FoodPanda at all Seattle’s Best Coffee branches nationwide.

Don’t miss the season’s cloud like sip. Treat yourself to the cozy taste of maple and share your favorite drink with #SBCMapleCloud.

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