More and more often we hear that the path to good health takes us through the garden gate to fresh, local food. But what about protein? We know we need it.

For example, the study estimated that replacing one serving per day of processed meats, like hot dogs, sausage, deli meats or bacon, with a serving of whole grains, nuts or beans was associated ...

Beans and nuts — along with cheese and eggs for non-vegans — offer versatility, too. Add cooked or canned beans to a soup or stew. Puree them with some of the liquid in a dish to create a ...

The model predicted that starting at age 20, switching from a standard American diet to one rich in beans, whole grains, fish, produce, and nuts could add 10.7 to 13 years to one's life.