In an analysis that included the most comprehensive and authoritative to date, nuts proved their efficacy in improving blood lipid levels. After pooling the data from 25 separate clinical tests, scientists determined that including up to a third of a cup of nuts dailylowers LDL (bad) cholesterol by 7.4 percent, lowers triglycerides by 10.2 percent, […]
The darlings of the healthy fat world, namely omega 3’s, may prove to be helpful for preventing colon cancer. In a study including about 1,900 adults, as the intakes of omega 3 fats increased, rates of colon cancer decreased. Among white study participants, those consuming the most omega 3 fats had half the risk of […]
As a family physician, nutrition expert, and mother of 4, I am delighted to share my top picks for the healthiest snacks for kids. Cut fresh veggies (baby carrots, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, broccoli/cauliflower florets, etc.) – serve along with a “healthy dip” like hummus, low-fat salad dressing, guacamole, or salsa. Low-fat yogurt – […]
Did you know that one of the most powerful dietary strategies available to guard and protect your health is to eat foods that keep the level of inflammation in your body low? Well, it’s true – because we now know that inflammation is a key driver of almost all forms of chronic disease. Thankfully there […]
Getting overly hungry is the downfall of dieters everywhere. You know how it works: you think you’re behaving yourself by not eating, but you go too long between meals, and as a result, you grow so hungry that you feel as though your stomach has become a bottomless pit. While you know you should chop […]
Although you may not have recognized them as phytochemicals, many of you are likely familiar with some of the commonly known superstars such as lycopene in tomatoes, anthocyanins in berries, and sulforaphane in broccoli. I am certain that a brief profile of just these three amazing plant chemicals will motivate you to eat your fruits […]
In a study of over 39,000 US females followed over 12 years, those who engaged regularly in brisk walking were 37% less likely to have a stroke. (Stroke, April 2010) Are you getting enough exercise? For more detailed guidance, check out 8 Steps to Lifelong Wellness & Vitality.
For dark chocolate lovers out there like me, I am delighted to share further evidence that dark chocolate is a food you can love that loves you back — a true dietary superstar! After following about 20,000 adults for at least 10 years, European researchers reported those who included as little as a small square […]
A mammoth study involving 1.2 million Swedish men determined that the better the cardiovascular fitness level at age 18, the better the cognitive function throughout adulthood. In this study, there was no relationship between muscle strength at age 18 and future intelligence scores. (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Online, December 2009
Spring has sprung and so have those delectable asparagus spears. Like other green vegetables, asparagus are chock full of nutrients, providing 20 different vitamins and minerals including a huge dose of folate, vitamin C, and vitamin A. This terrific trio makes them particularly valuable for heart health, healthy pregnancy, and keeping the immune system in good […]
The old saying is true, breakfast really is the most important meal of the day! I swear by starting my day off right, with a healthy breakfast packed full of nutrients. Here are 3 of my personal favorite meals/recipes! A bowl of steel cut oatmeal A veggie omelet scramble Breakfast smoothie Get Recipes!
Myth – Omega 3 fat levels in farm raised salmon are less than wild caught. About 70% of the fresh salmon consumed in this country is farm raised. Although I consider farm raised (also know as “Atlantic” salmon”) to be an important source of valuable omega 3 fats (farmed generally a bit higher) and healthy […]
