Welcome to DailyZests: Find Your Zest for Healthy Living!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by conflicting health advice, tired of restrictive diets, and just want to eat food that is both delicious and good for you… you’re in the right place.
We believe that managing your health shouldn’t feel like a punishment. Our mission is to translate complex, evidence-based nutritional science into simple, joyful, and practical recipes that fit into your real, busy life.
We’re here to help you find the “zest” in healthy eating, one delicious meal at a time.
Hi, I’m Kristina.
My journey here wasn’t as a professional chef or a registered dietitian. It started as a patient.
For years, I felt “off.” I struggled with chronic fatigue, stubborn weight gain, and a constant feeling of hormonal chaos that doctors often dismissed as “just stress.” After years of advocating for myself, I finally received a diagnosis that explained everything: PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
This diagnosis was overwhelming, but it was also a lightbulb moment. I learned that at the very core of my PCOS was a critical metabolic challenge: Insulin Resistance.
Suddenly, it all clicked. I realized my personal struggle to manage inflammation, hormones, and blood sugar was the exact same challenge faced by millions managing pre-diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes.
From Frustration to Research
The generic advice I received (“just lose weight”) wasn’t working. So, I became a researcher in my own kitchen.
As an independent wellness researcher, I dove headfirst into the scientific literature—PubMed, clinical guidelines, and meta-analyses. I wasn’t looking for trends; I was looking for evidence.
My research kept pointing back to three powerful, science-backed nutritional frameworks:
- The DASH Diet: Renowned for its ability to manage blood pressure and support heart health.
- The Mediterranean Diet: A gold standard for its anti-inflammatory benefits and holistic approach.
- Low-Carb Principles: A practical tool for directly managing blood sugar and insulin levels.
The problem? Most of the recipes I found were either bland, overly complicated, or used hard-to-find ingredients.
I knew there had to be a better way. That’s why I created DailyZests.
Our Philosophy: Evidence-Based & Practical
This website is my personal notebook—a place where I share the practical, family-tested recipes and research I’ve gathered on my own health journey.
Our philosophy is built on three simple pillars:
- Evidence Over Fads: We focus on science-backed dietary patterns. You won’t find quick fixes or trendy detoxes here, just sustainable, proven strategies.
- Flavor is Non-Negotiable: Healthy food must be delicious. We prioritize flavor, using fresh herbs, spices (our “zest”!), and smart techniques to create meals you’ll crave.
- Practicality is Key: Our recipes are designed for busy lives. We love one-pan meals, simple ingredient lists, and meal-prep-friendly ideas that save you time.
What You’ll Find on DailyZests
- Delicious DASH Diet Recipes to support your heart health.
- Vibrant Mediterranean Meals to help fight inflammation.
- Smart Low-Carb & Diabetic-Friendly Solutions for blood sugar management.
- PCOS & Gut-Health Guides based on my independent research.
- Simple Wellness Tips to support your entire body (like our popular guides on posture and “Tech Neck”!).
A Quick Note (Our Medical Disclaimer)
To be crystal clear, I am Kristina Hanson, an independent wellness researcher and recipe developer. I am NOT a medical doctor, registered dietitian, or licensed healthcare professional.
The content on DailyZests is the result of my personal experience and independent research. It is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Please always consult with your physician or another qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise, or health routine.
Thank you for being here. I’m so glad we’re on this journey together.