In a study involving 559 teens, the more fructose (a component of sugary foods and beverages) they consumed, the higher their blood pressure and fasting blood sugar, and the lower their HDL (good) cholesterol. These finding were most marked in teens with excess belly fat. (Journal of Nutrition, February 2012) In a study that sought […]
In an analysis of four former studies including a total of 352,384 study subjects, those consuming the most white rice were 27% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes relative to those eating the least. The relationship between white rice and diabetes was especially marked in Asian populations with a 55% higher risk in the […]
Cardiovascular researchers recently presented some alarming and ominous scientific findings that should be a huge wake up call for all of us, especially parents. For the report, scientists evaluated the presence of seven cardiovascular risk factors in a representative sample of 5,547 American teens between the ages of 12 and 19. The data was particularly […]
Red meat took a couple of bruising scientific hits this past month. In the first, Harvard researchers reported that men who consumed the most red meat (about two 4-6 oz. servings daily) were 28 percent more likely to have a stroke vs. those consuming one-third of a serving (2 oz. or less) a day. For […]
In the largest study of its kind to date, researchers from UT South Western Medical Center and the Cooper Institute reported a clear link between low levels of vitamin D and depression. In this four-year evaluation involving almost 12,600 subjects, investigators found that higher vitamin D levels were associated with a significantly lower risk of […]
Here are my key strategies for lowering your blood pressure through diet and lifestyle, no medications required. Eat as many fruits and vegetables as possible. Aim for 7 or more servings daily. Countless studies have shown that diets high in fruits/veggies can lower blood pressure and protect against hypertension. Superstar veggies for lowering blood pressure […]
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, add this healthy dessert to your meal plans. Eating healthy doesn’t have to mean no dessert! Healthy Blueberry Crumble 6 cups berries of choice, frozen or fresh ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 tsp. cinnamon, divided 2/3 cup whole-wheat flour ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats […]
Chocolate and dessert lovers rejoice! I have a recipe for a healthy chocolate sundae that will have your mouths watering. 2 scoops of “Purely Decadent” brand coconut milk ice cream (vanilla bean or coconut flavor), smothered with 2 ounces of melted 72% cacao, or higher, dark chocolate (I like Ghiradelli’s “Midnight Reverie”), and topped with […]
Summer is long gone, fall flew by, and winter is here! As the days get shorter and cooler, here are some simple tips for beating the winter blues. Make sure you move. As little as 20 minutes of aerobic activity, like a brisk walk, has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress for up to […]
In one of the biggest studies ever conducted to examine the influence diet has on genes that boost the risk of heart disease – we have some heart-warming good news! In an analysis of 27,000 individuals from five different ethnicities, those consuming lots of plant foods were able to totally negate the harmful effects of […]
In 2009, 86 percent of all TV adds for foods and beverages targeted at children 11 years and younger were for unhealthy foods. Fast foods were the most frequently featured foods. (Protect your child’s health by limiting TV.) (Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, August 1, 2011) A review of 53 studies looking at sedentary activity […]
Cardiovascular disease and other heart-related ailments are as rampant as ever amongst Americans. Protect your heart, and include these superstar foods in your diet regularly. Roasted soy nuts – This crunchy, nutty, great-tasting whole soy food is loaded with heart-healthy goodness including B vitamins, vitamin E, omega 3 fats, and soluble fiber. Whole soy foods […]
