I didn’t want a plant-based diet to work. But when Eric and I gave it a try, the results in our bloodwork—and in how we felt—were undeniable. Eric’s long-high “genetic” cholesterol dropped into normal range, my inherited lipoprotein(a) cut in half, and our energy soared. We’re not fully vegan, but eating this way most of the time has transformed our health.

Our health didn’t change overnight—it improved step by step. Eric once thought high cholesterol was “genetic,” until going plant-based and cutting back on alcohol dramatically shifted his bloodwork. For me, small changes brought down cholesterol and even improved my lipoprotein(a). The lesson? Real progress comes from sustainable shifts, built over time.

Gut health isn’t about trendy probiotic shots or “miracle” superfoods—it’s about plants. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes feed your gut microbiome with fiber and polyphenols, building lasting diversity. Yogurt and kefir help, but only because of their live cultures—and their effects are temporary. Real gut health comes from everyday plant-based foods layered into your meals, not quick fixes.

The old Eric and Mandy would’ve let birthday indulgence spiral for weeks. This year, we celebrated big—champagne, cake, the works—but then hit reset fast. Three days alcohol-free, plant-based meals, and back to cooking at home. The win wasn’t skipping the fun—it was bouncing back without guilt.

Three weeks post-surgery and I’m feeling better than I have in months. I had my follow-up appointment with my surgeon’s PA this week, and everything is looking great. For anyone else going through this, I wanted to share how recovery has been so far—what’s worked, what I’ve learned, and what’s next.

Considering microdiscectomy surgery? Here’s my day-by-day account of the procedure and first week recovery after a herniated L4-L5 disc—plus what helped me heal pain-free

Walk down any grocery store aisle and you’ll see them — “low-carb” bread, “keto” cookies, “diet” shakes, “sugar-free” ice cream. They all scream healthy! from the packaging, covered in buzzwords like light, skinny, guilt-free, or protein-packed.

I always thought of myself as a steady five-hour marathoner—until Tulsa proved me wrong. With a mix of weight loss, cleaner nutrition, consistent training, cross-training (yes, it matters), and a major mindset shift, I finished in 4:23. Forty-four minutes faster. Proof that progress isn’t magic—it’s small changes stacked over time.

Dealing with chronic back pain, a herniated disc, and microdiscectomy recovery as a marathon runner. A personal story about setbacks, healing, and hope.

Some nights dinner flops—like the okra stew that turned fibrous and inedible. But instead of spiraling into takeout, we pivoted. In 20 minutes, we had rice, crumbled tofu, mushrooms, cabbage, and chili crisp on the table. It wasn’t perfect, but it was nourishing, fast, and stress-free—and that’s the kind of real-life wellness we’re all about.

Do you really need 1.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight? Not unless you’re a bodybuilder. For most people, the real problem isn’t protein—it’s fiber. While 90% of Americans already get enough protein, over 90% fall short on fiber. Instead of chasing protein powders and gimmicky snacks, focus on whole foods that deliver both protein and fiber naturally. Your body (and your wallet) will thank you.

We’re not here to sell you another detox, quick fix, or “eat kale at every meal” plan. At Farm Table Health, we’re sharing the real-life habits that helped us feel better—without giving up wine nights or pastries. If you’re tired of extremes and looking for a balanced way to eat, move, and live, you’re in the right place.

I loved my Apple Watch—until I realized it was running me instead of the other way around. Here’s what happened when I ditched the streaks, rings, and badges, and learned to move for me again.

Eating healthy doesn’t require a fancy kitchen—but the right tools can make it a whole lot easier (and more fun). From the Instant Pot that turns dried beans into dinner in under an hour, to the SodaStream that keeps sparkling water flowing at home, these are the four gadgets we use almost every day to make nourishing food more convenient.

Forget resolutions. Forget the scale. Here’s why I’m focusing on systems and identity this year—and how it’s already changed me.

"This diet worked for me before… so why not just do it again?" We’ve all thought it. But if it really worked, why did it stop? Let’s talk about why diets fail, what actually lasts, and how to build habits that stick.

Is diet soda harmless—or quietly harming your health? From hidden ingredients to conflicting studies, here’s why I ditched it (and what I drink instead).

Nutrition advice feels louder—and more confusing—than ever. One day it’s keto, the next it’s fasting at a magic hour or eating cold pasta. But do we really need another headline, or just a dose of common sense? Spoiler: Michael Pollan had it right all along.

Non-alcoholic beer may not be a cheat code—but it’s been one of my favorite tools for feeling better without giving up Sunday football rituals. Here’s why I’ve made the switch (and the brands I recommend).

Eating better isn’t just about health—it’s about money. The numbers show that even with pricier groceries, you’ll spend thousands less than if you develop diabetes.