Dr. Ann

On the subject of potent antioxidants, we now know that constantly infusing our bodies with a steady stream of them should be the “bedrock” for healthy living.  A landmark, highly ambitious study that monitored genetic mutations through the human equivalent of 5,000 years — has shown for the very first time that the lion’s share […]

Once again, regular consumption of fish proves to be a very wise move – literally.  Reporting in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found that as the intake of fish increased – the risk of dementia decreased.  The study included over 15,000 older adults from 7 different countries.  For those […]

According to a new report in Gastroenterology (July 09), Celiac Disease is now 4 times more common in the US than it was during the 1950’s. The disease results from an intolerance to the protein gluten, found in wheat, barley, and rye.  When celiac patients consume gluten, they suffer an inflammatory reaction within the small […]

The darlings of the healthy fat world, namely those long-chained omega 3 fats, DHA and EPA, just received a glowing endorsement thanks to a new report in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (August 09).  After an exhaustive review of a slew of studies that included tens of thousands of subjects, cardiovascular experts […]

Restrict the Great White Hazards – white flour products, white rice, white potatoes, and sugar/sweets.  They drive your blood sugar down quickly which triggers sugar cravings. Avoid artificial sweeteners.  These exquisitely sweet agents keep your inner cookie monster primed and ready. Eat regularly – 3 meals a day with a mid-afternoon snack and be sure […]

Through the ages, vinegar has enjoyed a rich and colorful position as an agent of folk medicine and intriguing new science supports that it may be of particular benefit on the weight control front.  Past studies have already shown that it attenuates the glycemic response (rise in blood glucose) when consumed with carb foods (which […]

Here are some of my favorite, healthy substitutions: 100% spreadable fruit for regular jelly/jams Trans fat free spreads for stick butter or margarines Part-skim or 2% cheeses for full fat varieties Omega 3 fortified eggs for standard eggs Romaine hearts for iceberg lettuce Ground turkey breast for ground beef Greek-style plain yogurt for sour cream […]

Cantaloupe is a summer food standout on the healthy living front.  One cup of this juicy, sweet, refreshing fruit provides more than 100% of your daily requirement for vitamins A and C, all for just 56 calories!  To make the tastiest choice, sniff the stem end to ensure a sweet fragrance and choose one that […]

I consider beans to be the most underutilized superfood.  Here are 7 compelling reasons to include them in your diet every day. Beans have megawatt nutritional power.  They provide a hefty dose of vegetable protein, more fiber and folate than any other food group, a load of potent antioxidant flavonoids, and key minerals including iron, […]

Here are some quick highlights from a number of cool, new studies on the weight loss front: High intensity aerobic exercise is effective for reshaping body contour. (Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Oct 08).  If you want to “spot” reduce your waistline, high intensity workouts appear to do the trick.  Spinning has definitely […]

Eating high glycemic carbs like white bread, white potatoes, and sweets (“The Great White Hazards” in my lingo), that send blood glucose soaring, appear to disrupt the function of the all-important cells lining our arteries known as endothelial cells.  Endothelial cells, when functioning properly, work like a Teflon coating in our arteries and maintain a […]

One of the most precious gifts the human body can receive is the gift of physical activity – and a totally uplifting new report found that when it comes to boosting your mood, exercise gives for much longer than previously thought.  Compelling and consistent research has documented that moderate intensity aerobic exercise (like a brisk […]