Fact vs. Fiction

Decoding the latest food & health headlines

People are confused about diet and health, we often hear. One reason: the steady drumbeat of surprising news about the latest study—often about chocolate, cheese, sugar, ultra-processed foods, or some popular diet. Sometimes, it’s not a new study, but advice on news websites that muddies the picture. Here’s a sampling of the latest.

Saucy Paprika Chicken

The secret to juicy chicken breasts: Only brown the side you’ll see on the plate. An easy, punchy pan sauce like this one doesn’t hurt, either. Want to use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts? In step 3, simmer for 8–10 minutes.