High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a workout that alternates vigorous cardio intervals with periods of lower-intensity exercise. According to the American Council on Exercise, high-intensity intervals last anywhere from 30 seconds to three minutes while rest intervals are the same length or longer. Research shows that HIIT workouts are effective for improving aerobic and anaerobic fitness, improving insulin resistance, and decreasing belly and subcutaneous fat. In addition to the valuable health benefits, here are five more reasons to try HIIT.

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When most people hear "malnutrition," they picture someone who is dangerously thin. That's only half the story — you can carry extra weight and still fall short on the nutrients your body needs. Researchers call this "hidden hunger," and it's more common than you'd think.

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Seasonal fruit turns into a delicious dessert when warmed by the grill and topped with sweet yogurt. If you don't own a grill, you can broil the plums for a few minutes to get similar results.

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Ever wonder why some people seem built for marathons while others excel at sprinting or heavy lifting? Part of the answer lies in muscle fiber type. Your muscles are made up of two main fiber types — slow-twitch (Type I) and fast-twitch (Type II) — and understanding how they work can help you set realistic expectations for your training.

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Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for improving long-term health, but more isn't always better. Understanding both the benefits and the risks can help you build a routine that keeps you safe while maximizing the payoff.

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Jicama is a starchy root vegetable that provides a crunchy texture to fresh salads. It is low in calories and high in vitamin C, with a mild flavor that complements both sweet and savory ingredients.

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High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets come in many forms. Doctors prescribe some to help manage conditions like diabetes, while others may put you at risk for nutrient deficiencies. Before cutting carbs, it's worth taking a close look at what the plan actually involves and whether it supports your long-term health, rather than serving as a quick fix for weight loss. Here are six things to consider first.

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Minimize muscle loss.

When you're trying to lose weight, cutting calories too aggressively can cause you to lose lean muscle along with fat. Regular strength training helps counteract this effect. Pairing strength training with adequate calorie and protein intake supports muscle growth and helps prevent further muscle loss.

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Peanut flour is rich in protein and fiber and has a light, airy texture that blends well into shakes, cereals, and yogurt. It boosts the nutritional value of your breakfast while adding a pleasant nutty flavor.

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Easy On the Joints

When you are waist-deep in water, your body carries only 50 percent of your body weight. When the water is chest level, only 25 to 35 percent of your body weight is carried. Whether you are swimming laps or taking a deep-end aquatics class, water exercise gives your joints a break from the pounding common in other activities such as running, tennis, or kickboxing. It has also been shown to increase joint use and reduce joint pain among those with osteoarthritis.

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