Whether or not you're a vegetarian, veggie burgers are a healthy alternative to meat-based burgers. Veggie burgers vary considerably in their nutritional content based on their ingredients; some have more vegetables and grains making them lower in protein, whereas others have beans or a soy base and are higher in protein. I recommend choosing veggie burgers with at least ten grams of protein to make them a substantial entrée. Most veggie burgers are also a good source of fiber, which aids in weight loss and reduces the risk of heart disease and >type 2 diabetes.

ermouth is a fortified wine that is an ingredient in many cocktails, including martinis, and sometimes used for cooking. Vermouth-containing cocktails can pack on the pounds, increase already high triglycerides, and interfere with sleep. It is best to limit alcoholic beverages, especially if you are trying to lose weight, have type 2 diabetes or gout, or experience irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). That said, drinking moderate amounts of alcohol has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke and boost HDL (good) cholesterol. If you don't already drink, don't start, and if you do, limit your intake to one d...

Vinegar is a low-calorie condiment that is often used as a food preservative or an ingredient in salad dressing. When combined with heart-healthy oils (like olive oil) to make vinaigrette, it’s a good substitute for creamy, calorie-laden salad dressings and a smart choice for people trying to lose weight. There are a number of different kinds of vinegars, including white, balsamic, red-wine, and apple-cider vinegars. You may need to avoid or limit certain types of vinegars (and condiments made with them) if you suffer from migraines. Balsamic and wine vinegars contain amino acids that are common migraine triggers...

Vodka is a very common alcoholic drink that is often combined with high-calorie, sugary mixers like soda and fruit juice. Drinking straight vodka or mixed vodka drinks can pack on the pounds, increase already high triglycerides, and interfere with sleep. It is best to limit vodka and other alcoholic beverages, especially if you are trying to lose weight, have type 2 diabetes or gout, or experience irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). That said, drinking moderate amounts of alcohol has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke and boost HDL (good) cholesterol. If you don't already drink, don't start, and if y...