Dr. Ann

Of all whole grains, quinoa has the best overall nutritional profile. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Quinoa provides complete protein – which is very rare in the plant kingdom. Quinoa is uniquely high in two highly prized and super potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, kaemferol and quercetin. (Even more than in berries!) […]

We already know that fruits and veggies can help us look, feel, and stay younger, and now, thanks to some nifty new science, we can also add sexier to that fabulous list. In a first-of-its-type experiment, scientists set out to evaluate how skin coloration impacts the perception of “facial attractiveness” as well as mate selection. […]

September 15, 2014 • Healthy Living

Quick Tip

  To Control Your Alcohol Intake– Always Use a “Rule of Thumb” Too much alcohol is bad for your health and your waistline. To control your intake, always use a “rule of thumb” when you pour.  Studies show that people who make it a habit to pour a half glass of wine or use the “two […]

A healthy HDL level (>50) is associated with less risk of heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s and colon cancer. Follow these simple strategies to raise your HDL (good) cholesterol level. (Mine is 93!) Lose weight if overweight. Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (brisk walking) most days of the week. (Talk to […]

Based on the current science, here are the most effective parent and home-based strategies for preventing obesity and improving weight control in youth. Be a healthy role model by striving to keep your weight in a healthy range. Sit down for healthy family meals as often as possible and limit dining out. Limit your child’s […]

Dark chocolate is a treat you can indulge in and feel great about. In fact, dark chocolate may be the very best reminder that eating healthy can taste great too. Here is my advice for best results: Choose the highest percentage cacao that your palate will accept. The higher the cacao, the more antioxidants and […]

All varieties of nuts are off-the-charts great for you, but walnuts deserve especially enthusiastic praise. In fact, this remarkable nut is so special it is always available in my kitchen. Here are 6 compelling reasons to join me in including walnuts in your diet regularly: 1.Walnuts are one of the few foods and the only nut […]

In the most robust study of its kind to date, researchers found a very strong link between low vitamin D levels and a greater risk of dementia. For the study researchers measured the blood vitamin D levels in 1,658 people over the age of 65 and then followed their cognitive function over the next 5.6 […]

In a new report published in the American Heart Association’s journal, Hypertension, consuming probiotics as part of a healthy lifestyle appears to significantly lower blood pressure levels, especially in those with hypertension. The analysis combined the results of nine previously published clinical trials and found that regular consumption of probiotics for eight weeks or longer lowered […]

Many Americans do not achieve optimal levels of dietary potassium. Here are my top strategies for boosting your intake of this critical nutrient. Include beans in your diet each day. Consume plain non-fat or low-fat yogurt in your diet each day. Use tomato sauce or paste (low sodium) regularly in your recipes and dishes. Snack […]

In the largest and most rigorously conducted study to date, organic foods came out on top. This new evaluation included an unprecedented 343 peer-reviewed publications comparing the nutritional quality and safety of fruits, vegetables, and grains grown in organic vs. conventional conditions. The researchers noted three very clear areas of superiority for the organic crops […]

Omega 3 fats, specifically DHA and EPA, are essential nutrients that must be obtained via the diet. They play a fundamental role in brain, cardiovascular, and immune health, and most kid’s diets are woefully deficient in these vital fats. Follow these guidelines to be sure your child receives optimal amounts: Seafood, particularly oily fish (salmon, […]