Vaccines are an exception I can live with. Please hear me out. — A friend recently asked me to speak with his vegan daughter about her vaccine hesitancy. He knew I was a COVID vaccine advocate, and hoped that she would relate to me as a fellow vegan and respect my opinion as a scientist (PhD genetics). Over the next few days, my…

How the risks of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine stack up against the waiting game. — If you were offered a shot of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, would you take it? If you’d hesitate, you’re not alone. Many Canadians would rather hold out for Pfizer or Moderna mRNA vaccines, than take AstraZeneca. The Great COVID-19 Vaccine Dilemma is a problem we’re lucky to have, but is…

Say no to hype and yes to moderation. — It’s time to face the truth about coconut oil. Yes, it’s delicious and versatile. No, it’s NOT a miracle food. It will not melt your fat, rev your metabolism, cure your diabetes, or rid you of inflammation. In fact, excess consumption of coconut oil may be a heart health liability. …

Setting yourself up for success is critical — When embarking on a plant-based journey, setting yourself up for success is critical. A well-planned plant-based diet, with clear goals, can be delicious, healthy, and deeply rewarding. A less thoughtful approach, with unrealistic expectations, can lead you to become a frustrated “ex-vegan”. Before we dive in, let’s get our definitions…

Why a “rushed” COVID-19 vaccine does not mean a riskier one — The prospect of a COVID-19 vaccine before the end of 2020 seemed preposterous just a few months ago. Yet, here we are, getting ready to roll up our sleeves. What are we to make of this “rushed” vaccine? …

Is eating out off the table? Are all gyms and hotels a no-go? — A new study of COVID-19 dynamics generated a flurry of scary headlines regarding the risks associated with restaurants, gyms, and hotels. “Covid Superspreader Risk Is Linked to Restaurants, Gyms, Hotels” Bloomberg News Should you never eat out, go to the gym, or stay in hotel, until we are all vaccinated? …

How do the leading plant-based burgers stack up on taste, environment, and health? — Next-generation veggie burgers are taking off in a big way, with Impossible burger and Beyond burger leading the pack. Both plant-based patties mimic the taste and texture of meat, and promise fewer downsides than the real deal. Which burger is best? Let’s see how the plant-based leaders compare to each…

Should you pack your bags? What does the evidence say? — On the surface, air travel seems like a recipe for COVID-19 disaster — a bunch of strangers packed like sardines into a small space, sharing the same smelly air. Yet, recent news headlines and government policies, suggest that in-flight risks may be smaller than feared. “Flying can be safer than…

An update on COVID-19 exposure and transmission risks — When elementary schools opened this fall, my family opted in. We felt that the small risk of COVID-19 was worth the huge benefits. Yet, as we kissed our three monkeys goodbye, and returned home to a quiet house, our jubilation was tinged with trepidation. We knew that our best efforts…