Supplement News Blog Is Atkins Diet Most Effective? Many experts believe that the potential benefits and risks of popular diets have not been adequately studied. Four popular diet plans including Atkins (a very low-carb, high-fat diet), Zone (a low-carb diet), LEARN (a low-fat, high-carb diet based on U.S. guidelines) and Ornish (a very high-carb diet) were recently compared. The study found that overweight and obese women on the Atkins diet lost the most weight. The randomized study, published in the Journal of the... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on March 27, 2007 02:35 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Black Soy Bean Protein Helps Weight Loss Black soy (rat's eye) bean protein (Rhynchosia volubilis Lour.) has traditionally been used in Asian medicine to help treat diabetes. Previous studies suggest that soy protein may affect fat tissue metabolism and prevent fatty acids and cholesterol production. Now research reports that black soy protein can help prevent weight gain and lower cholesterol. The study, published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, investigated the effects of black soy protein on weight... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on March 10, 2007 03:49 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Omega-3 DHA Prevents Fat Cell Production Previous studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish, flaxseeds and walnuts lower the risk of heart disease, inflammation and other health problems. Now research reports that the omega-3 fatty acid DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) may prevent the production of human fat cells. The study authors suggest that DHA supplementation may prevent obesity by stopping the production, development and growth of fat cells. The study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, investigated the effect... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on February 27, 2007 03:24 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Mediterranean Nutrients Benefit Heart The Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, olive oil, and whole grains, has been shown to prevent heart disease, cancer, obesity, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Heart-healthy nutrients in the Mediterranean diet include fish oils (EPA and DHA), oleic acid (from olive oil), folic acid, and vitamins A, B-6, D, and E. Now research reports that supplementation with these nutrients can lower heart disease risk factors in heart attack patients. The study, published in the... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on February 12, 2007 03:18 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Fish Benefits Outweigh Risks Although fish and fish oils have known health benefits, they also contain contaminants such as mercury, dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). As a result, experts debate if fish should be included in a healthy diet. Beneficial omega-3 essential fatty acids are found in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines. Fish omega 3s consist of biologically active EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are a precursor to beneficial prostaglandins. Omega 3s have... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on January 28, 2007 03:52 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Kids Influence Adults Fat Intake Experts have determined that parent's eating habits influence their children's diets. Now research reports that kids can also influence their parent's diet behavior. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend that total fat intake should be 20 to 35 percent of total calories and saturated (harmful) fat intake should be less than 10 percent of total calories. However, the study found that parent's daily fat intake is about 5 grams higher than adults in childless households. The... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on January 27, 2007 03:17 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Nutrition For Strength Experts recommend eating nutrient-rich foods to help boost strength and immunity. Eating right is especially important when fighting serious health problems such as cancer, arthritis and depression. However, certain medical conditions and medications can often affect appetite and make nutritious eating difficult. Here are some simple nutritional suggestions to help build strength when you're feeling under the weather. 1. Protein- Healthy, protein-rich foods such as lean meats (like chicken and turkey breast), dairy products (like... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on January 25, 2007 03:22 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Folic Acid Levels Fall in Women of Childbearing Age Contrary to what was expected, the Center's For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that levels of folate in women of childbearing age fell between 2000 and 2004. The full report was published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report earlier this month. It documented the findings from two national surveys that assessed blood levels of folate in women who may become pregnant. Folic acid, or folate, is a necessary vitamin for women of childbearing... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on January 22, 2007 04:50 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Diet Helps Hypothyroid and High Blood Pressure High blood pressure and hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) are common medical conditions in the US. About 65 million American adults have high blood pressure and 20 percent of women and 5 percent of men have hypothyroidism. Now research reports that diet can help improve both hypothyroidism and high blood pressure. Since iodine is essential for production of thyroid hormone, insufficient dietary iodine can cause hypothyroidism. This deficiency can cause the thyroid gland to swell at... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on January 15, 2007 01:31 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) 100-Calorie Snacks That Keep Your New Year's Resolution Many of us have made a New Year's resolution to lose weight. Weight loss is the most popular resolution for good reason: two out of every three Americans are overweight or obese. Even more alarmingly, half of women between the ages of 20 and 39 are now considered overweight or obese. Although we may have good intentions to lose weight, it often gets derailed when we experience a "snack attack", those between-meal urges that make... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on January 12, 2007 04:04 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Fish Consumption During Pregnancy Everyone has heard the recommendations to eat fish for the health benefits. Fish is a high source of omega 3 fatty acids, is low in saturated fats, and high in many vitamins and minerals. However, certain fish are also high in mercury, a known neurotoxin. There are certain populations that are cautioned against eating fish, especially those known to be high in mercury. Pregnant women and children should not eat high amounts of fish because... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 29, 2006 03:17 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Olive Oil Lowers Oxidative Damage Numerous epidemiological studies have found a common trend. Cancer rates are higher in Northern European countries compared to Southern European countries. One very relevant difference between the two regions is diet. Those persons living in the Southern region consume a higher quantity of olive oil versus butter or other saturated fats that are consumed in higher amounts in the Northern region. So to test out a theory that olive oil helps lower cancer risk, researchers... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 28, 2006 05:14 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Is the Vegetarian Lifestyle the Smarter Choice? Could intelligence be a factor in one's decision to become vegetarian or vegan? According to a new report in the British Medical Journal IQ exerts a significant effect on this decision for both men and women, whether they are aware or not. There are a variety of reasons that one may give for making the decision to become a vegetarian or vegan. Many people make the choice for health reasons, siting the strong relationship between... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 27, 2006 03:22 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Fish Oil Helps Kidney Cancer Previous studies suggest that fish oils with omega 3 fatty acids may help certain cancers, including prostate and bowel cancers. Omega 3 essential fatty acids are found in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines. However, previous studies have not consistently found that total fish intake (not including fatty fish intake) is associated with a lowered risk of cancers. Now for the first time research reports that fish oils with omega 3 fatty acids... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on December 24, 2006 01:03 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) More Benefits of a Fishy Diet Men who consume fish on a regular basis may have lower incidence of colorectal cancer according to a new study presented last month at the American Association of Cancer Research. The Harvard School of Public Health analyzed data from more than 22,000 men enrolled in the Health Professionals Study for dietary fish intake and compared that data to colorectal cancer incidence. The mean follow-up was almost twenty years. Colorectal cancer is in the top three... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 12, 2006 03:08 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Certain Meats Tied to Bladder Cancer According to a new study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition the types of meats you choose in your diet could affect your risk for developing bladder cancer. The study gathered information on more than 135,000 men and women who were enrolled in the Nurse's Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. The mean follow-up period was about 20 years and during that time about 0.5% or 808 enrollees developed bladder cancer. The... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 11, 2006 01:18 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Dietary Influences on Breast Cancer Past studies found that high fat diets may increase a woman's risk for breast cancer and recommended limiting fat in the diet, especially after menopause. But new evidence from the Nurse's Health Study that involved information from more than 80,000 women over 20 years found no connection between fat intake and breast cancer risk. For the study women filled out questionaires every two years during the 20 year follow up. The questionaire inquired about dietary... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 11, 2006 12:43 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) A New Spin On Peanut Butter Peanut butter is a popular, high-energy food. Although peanut butter is a healthy food mostly made of ground peanuts, certain commercial brands also contain 'bad fats' such as partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats) and high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. Trans fats raise bad cholesterol levels, while lowering good cholesterol. The American diet is known to be too high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can lower good cholesterol. Fortunately, there are food manufacturers that now... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on December 9, 2006 03:32 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Easy Ways To Cut 100 Calories Studies continue to show that the conventional prescription for achieving and maintaining your best weight is still the healthiest - through lifestyle education, eating a healthful, balanced diet, cutting calories, and daily exercise. Cutting only 100 calories per day is an easy way to manage weight that can be sustained in your daily routine. By simply shaving 100 calories every day, you can lose up to 10 pounds in a year. The simple weight loss... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 25, 2006 03:58 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) The CDC Obesity Map Health experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that over two-thirds of the adult population is now overweight, and about half of those people are fully obese. They also warn that over 17 percent of American children and teens are overweight or obese. Obesity has put a huge toll on the healthcare system. Experts have estimated about 325,000 deaths in the U.S. per year are linked to obesity, which makes... More» Posted by Brad Chase on November 23, 2006 11:43 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Are Artificial Sweeteners Really Bad For You? A growing list of artificial sweeteners including saccharine (Sweet-n-Low), aspartame (NutraSweet or Equal), sucralose (Splenda), and D-Tagatose (Sugaree) are substituting for table sugar (sucrose). These sugar substitutes offer the sweetness of sugar with fewer calories. Table sugar contains 4 calories per gram, as compared with artificial sweeteners which often contain zero calories per gram. Artificial sweeteners are used in many food products, ranging from ketchup to soft drinks to chewing gum. More than 180 million... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 21, 2006 04:15 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Brown Seaweed Burns Fat Wakame, a brown seaweed commonly consumed in Japan, is used in traditional Japanese miso soups and salads. Brown seaweed contains fucoxanthin, a brownish pigment and antioxidant. Now research reports that fucoxanthin extracted from brown seaweed burned fat in obese mice and promoted weight loss. The researchers hope to develop a fucoxanthin supplement from brown seaweed as an anti-obesity pill for consumers. The study, presented at the September 10-14, 2006 American Chemical Society's 232nd National Meeting... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 15, 2006 12:49 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) How Dietary Choices Affect Pregnancy Outcomes The proper diet for pregnancy has always been an interesting debate. In general rich in all nutrients is prefered. For some women this may mean high protein and others this may mean high complex carbohydrates. But one thing is known for sure, diets high in sugar and simple carbohydrates are not well suited for pregnant women. But what about the baby? It is true that the only source of fuel for a growing baby is... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on November 14, 2006 09:41 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Wendy's Healthier Cooking Oil Wendy's, the third largest hamburger chain in the US, has switched to a healthier, non-hydrogenated cooking oil that doesn't contain any trans fats. Wendy's is the nation's first major fast food chain to switch to a healthier cooking oil. Trans fats raise bad cholesterol levels, while lowering good cholesterol. A diet high in trans fats increases the risk of heart disease, obesity and certain cancers. Trans fats are found in solid fats like margarine and... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 14, 2006 03:29 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Coffee Drinking Lowers Alcoholic Cirrhosis Risk Coffee is a major dietary source of antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals (toxic byproducts of metabolic functions) and protect against inflammation and age-related diseases. Now research reports that drinking coffee may help protect the liver against alcoholic cirrhosis. However, the study didn't indicate what substances in coffee may help protect the liver. The study, published in Archives of Internal Medicine, investigated the association of coffee drinking and the risk of liver cirrhosis. Researchers from... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 14, 2006 03:23 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Using Foods To Treat Diabetes Diabetes rates are on the rise in the US, with numbers topping 15 million expected to double in the next 2 decades. Conventional medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes target specific enzymes that modulate the bodies response to glucose. Type 2 diabetics respond abnormally to the rise in blood glucose, or blood sugar, that occurs after consuming food. This response can be exaggerated if the food is high in sugar or simple carbohydrates and... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on November 13, 2006 03:59 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Dark Chocolate Beautifies Skin Dark chocolate and non-Dutched cocoa contain potent antioxidant flavanols called proanthyocyanidins that may contribute to heart health and boost immunity. Non-Dutched cocoa is much richer in flavonoids than Dutched (alkali-treated) cocoa, because the Dutching process destroys the flavonoids. Now research reports that regularly cocoa intake can beautify and enhance the skin by making it smoother and more resistant to damage from the sun's ultra-violet (UV) rays. The study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, investigated... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 12, 2006 02:38 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Simple Changes to Reduce Risk for Diabetes Diabetes, mainly adult onset, is becoming an epidemic worldwide. More than 194 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes and that number is expected to top 300 million by the year 2025. It is a condition of irregular glucose metabolism that is fueled by the rise in obesity. A new study in the Lancet found that lifestyle changes alone can dramatically reduce one's risk of diabetes without having to take any medication or supplement. The... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on November 10, 2006 02:18 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Eating Nuts Lowers Cholesterol Phytosterols are plant substances that are similar in structure to human cholesterol. Nuts and seeds are rich sources of phytosterols. Previous studies suggest that plant foods rich in phytosterols may lower blood cholesterol and prevent certain cancers. Cholesterol, found in all of the body's cells, is essential for most bodily functions. However, too much cholesterol, called hypercholesterolemia, is a major risk factor for heart disease. Determining the phytosterol content of plant foods, such as nuts,... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 8, 2006 02:41 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Do You Know How To Snack Correctly? Snacking has gotten a bad reputation because of the fattening treats it's associated with such as chips, cookies and candies. However, eating healthful snacks in between meals will help you eat less overall and keep your blood sugar levels and metabolism steady. Nutritious snacks such as small amounts of fruits, vegetables and nuts will help you avoid overeating or binging at your next meal. Knowing what snack to eat and when is important in order... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 7, 2006 03:29 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) New US Institute of Medicine Report on Fish Consumption The worlds population of fish is becoming more polluted each day. Yet, fish offer many health benefits as an alternative to beef and poultry. A new report from the US Institute of Medicine (IOM) addressed the issues concerning fish consumption. Many fish, especially large predatory ones, contain toxic levels of mercury and PCB's, both of which can contribute to the development of a variety of conditions. Because of the contamination of fish with these and... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on November 3, 2006 01:41 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) How Glycemic Index Affects Weight Gain in Women A foods glycemic index is determined by the speed at which glucose, or sugar, enters the blood stream. Foods with a high glycemic index rapidly increase one's blood sugar and include white bread, table sugar, and bananas. Foods with a low glycemic index usually take longer to digest and slowly increase the blood sugar and include brown rice, leafy greens, and apples. The glycemic index of foods can effect the development of diabetes and metabolic... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on November 2, 2006 01:49 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Poor Diet As Bad As Smoking Smoking is a worldwide public-health concern and a major preventable cause of premature death and disease. Now research reports that a poor diet is as bad for the health as smoking. A report published by the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) has found that insufficient intake of fruits, vegetables and fish reduces life expectancy and causes the most serious cases of illness and death in The Netherlands. The researchers recommend... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 29, 2006 03:38 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Should Your Child Be On A Diet? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), obesity in children has more than tripled since 1980. Many parents are wondering whether they should put their overweight child on a diet. Most experts agree that children can achieve and maintain their healthiest weight by eating appropriate amounts of high-quality, fresh food and participating in daily play activities. To help parents raise a normal weight child, experts recommend the following guidelines: 1. Intermittent healthy snacks-... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 29, 2006 03:21 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) High Intake of Magnesium Lowers Diabetes Risk in African American Women African American women are more likely to develop diabetes during adulthood than their Caucasian counterparts. Several factors may play into this increased susceptibility, but researchers and physicians are still not 100 percent clear. Several studies have proven that certain diet and lifestyle choices decrease risk for developing Type 2 diabetes in white women, but few studies have looked at their effect in African American women. A study published this month in Diabetes Care investigated which... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on October 27, 2006 02:17 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Vanishing Bananas Bananas are the world's most exported fruit and the fourth most important food crop. India is the world's premier banana grower, producing over 20 percent of the world's banana output. Bananas remain an essential food of over 400 million people worldwide and are eaten raw, baked, fried, and boiled. Bananas are also used in traditional medicine. However, overexploitation and the destruction of forests due to slash-and-burn cultivation and urbanization in India are rapidly causing an... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 27, 2006 01:56 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Should The Government Regulate Obesity? The growing obesity epidemic has become a top public health challenge not only in the U.S. but worldwide. Over 300 million adults worldwide are now considered obese or overweight. Since 1980, adult obesity in the 25-nation European Union (E.U.) has tripled and continues to escalate. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), obesity in children has also tripled since 1980. Worldwide, there are over 3 million obese or overweight children and the number... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 27, 2006 01:51 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) How To Shop For Healthy Foods At the supermarket, learn to recognize the most nutritious foods so you can make your own smart choices and buy good-for-you foods for a healthy diet. Avoid foods in the supermarket aisle that can challenge your healthful grocery shopping. Plan healthy, balanced meals in advance and make a shopping list of healthful foods. Arrive at the supermarket with your healthy foods shopping list and a full stomach to resist the temptation to impulse buy. Here... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 25, 2006 02:36 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Reduce Alzheimer's Risk With Mediterranean Diet The Mediterranean diet has been proven to lower risk for cardiovascular disease, heart attack and stroke. Now a new study found that men and women who eat a similar diet are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. The Mediterranean diet is centered around the consumption of olive oil, fruits, vegetables, grains, and less meat products. It is believed to be high in antioxidants and low in saturated fats. Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center studied... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on October 15, 2006 12:35 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Ultra-Fat Diet May Benefit Parkinson's Previous studies suggest that an ultra-fat diet may help neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease and Lou Gehrig's disease. Now research reports that an ultra-fat diet may also benefit Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a degenerative neurological disorder that has no cure. The symptoms include tremors, a shuffling walk, muscle stiffness, stooped posture, and a mask-like, expressionless face. The study, published in Neurology, investigated the effects of an ultra-fat diet in patients with Parkinson's disease. Researchers... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 11, 2006 02:38 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Vegan Diet Benefits Diabetes A vegan diet consists of vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes and eliminates all animal products and by-products. However, this diet may be low in essential nutrients, including vitamin B12, and may require dietary supplementation. Previous studies suggest that vegetarians have a lower risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and obesity. Now research reports that a vegan diet can benefit individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study, published in Diabetes Care, investigated the effects of a... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 11, 2006 02:34 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Soy Benefits Bones Eating soy foods such as tofu, soy milk, and tempeh, has been shown to benefit bone health and increase bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. Soy contains bone strengthening minerals such as calcium, magnesium and boron, as well as isoflavones that can inhibit the breakdown of bones. Now research reports that eating soy foods helps lower the risk of bone fractures. The study, published in Archives of Internal Medicine, investigated the association of soy intake... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 10, 2006 02:46 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Salad Consumption Improves Nutrient Status People who regularly consume salads, including raw vegetables, are getting more of the essential nutrients needed to stay healthy. This new information comes from a report published in the Journal of American Dietetic Association this September. The study came from diet and health information of nearly 19,000 men and women who completed the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Study. Each participant was given a dietary questionaire and asked to recall their dietary intake over... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on October 9, 2006 03:57 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Eating the Benefits of Soy Soy and its constituents have recieved much acclaim for its health promoting effects. As a whole food soy is high in fiber and protein while being low in saturated fats. Taken apart, the soy isoflavones act as phytoestrogens and may protect against cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis, and the soy protein has proven to lower cholesterol. A recent review published in the American Journal of Cardiology concluded that we may best be served by soy... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on October 6, 2006 02:09 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Some Diet Rules Should Be Broken Many of us automatically follow certain food and dieting rules, hoping they'll make our weight loss program successful. Many rules are useful, but some are either half-truths or myths. To help you with your weight management goals, here's some of the most common diet rules you should break. Rule 1: Midnight Snacking Causes Weight Gain- It's widely believed that nighttime snacking can lead to an increased tendency to gain weight. However, studies show that a... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 5, 2006 03:07 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Fuel Your Next Workout Most experts agree that a balanced diet of whole foods including fruits, vegetables, whole unrefined grains, lean proteins such as fish or chicken, and nuts is essential to fuel a daily workout and maintain optimal health. Knowing what to eat and when is important in order to maximize training and supply sustained energy before and after workouts. Eating too much or too little before your workout can either weigh you down or leave you depleted.... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 2, 2006 02:30 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Is Test Tube Meat Closer To Being On Your Plate? Meat grown out of a test tube may seem farfetched, but it's closer to being on your plate than you may expect. Meat researchers at the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands are now growing artificial pork meat out of pig stem cells. The scientists hope to manufacture cultivated meat suitable for burgers and sauces within the next six years. The Dutch-government funded project began in April 2005 and is expected to be completed by... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on October 2, 2006 09:54 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) How Sleep Affects Your Weight Sleep is vital for life. Getting adequate, restorative sleep is necessary for your body to function. In fact, recent evidence suggests that the amount of sleep people get can influence their weight. According to the results of the Nurses Health Study (which originally started in 1976), women getting five hours of sleep per night gained more than 33 pounds over the 16 years they were reporting their weight. The findings of the study were presented... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on October 1, 2006 02:20 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Tips for Improving the Health Status of Your Grocery Cart Eating healthier begins with a trip to your local grocery store. If you are fortunate enough to live near a large health food store, some of the work is already taken care of for you. The most basic elements begin with choosing pure foods devoid of artificial sweeteners, dyes, preservatives, pesticides and waxes. This involves reading food labels and looking at the list of ingredients. The most important ingredient to ensure is not contained in... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on October 1, 2006 01:54 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Essential Fatty Acid Ratio Does Not Affect Clot Formation Essential fatty acids (EFAs) such as alpha-linolenic (ALA) , eicosapentenoic acid (EPA) , and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have favorable effects on cardiovascular health. Clinical studies have proven they lower total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, inhibit platelet activation, and influence blood pressure. A new study out of the UK tested the hypothesis that a 3:1 omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acid ratio may lower levels of clotting factors known to influence fatal heart attacks.... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 29, 2006 02:24 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) What will become of Bananas? A staple fruit for many, the future of bananas may be endangered. The most common fruit in the world, and the fourth most important food crop overall, the yellow banana widely available throughout the year may be facing collapse. The New Scientist reports that the Cavendish banana (the single variety of banana traded internationally) is threatened by pandemics of disease in Indian forests, where the only genetic roots of its gene pile lies. The UN... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 29, 2006 01:16 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) GMO Soybean Oils and Lipid Profiles All the recent research proving the negative health effects of partially hydrogenated oils have sent processed food manufacturers for a spin. They have also compelled the public to read labels and look for products that do not contain the harmful partially hydrogenated oils. Partially hydrogenated oils are used because they have a long shelf life, do not go rancid, and can be cooked at high temps. The problem is that in the body and as... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 29, 2006 01:01 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Abdominal Obesity Associated With High Blood Pressure A new study found that not only is abdominal weight associated with high cholesterol and diabetes but also high blood pressure. The study was published in the respected American Journal of Hypertension this month. The study was aimed to understand the relationship between weight gain and high blood pressure, but more specifically abdominal weight gain. More than 2,300 Chinese men and women were followed for 10 years. Statistics including weight, abdominal circumferance, BMI, and blood... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 27, 2006 02:21 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Apple Flavonoids Prevent Inflammation Previous studies have shown that flavonoid antioxidants derived from fruits, vegetables, green tea, and chocolate neutralize the free radicals (unstable molecules that cause damage to cells) associated with degenerative diseases, heart disease, and aging. Now researchers have discovered the molecular mechanism in which flavonoids in apples protect the body. They report that apples protect cells from tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a compound that promotes inflammation and cell death. The study, published in Experimental Biology and... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 22, 2006 03:09 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Americans Not Getting Their Fruits and Vegies This last year the USDA changed its food pyramid recommendation for fruits and vegetables. Now a new analysis by the USDA's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion states that many groups are not stepping up to the guidelines. In the past the recommendation was five servings of fruits and vegetables per day for every person. It was a general guideline, and difficult to follow because there were no amounts or volumes listed. The recent changes... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 22, 2006 12:48 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Weight Management Success Successful weight management includes weight loss and weight maintenance. Research reports that only about one-third of people who lose weight are able to maintain their weight loss. Experts have found that successful weight management depends on a positive change in lifestyle, where long-term weight loss and maintenance is a natural result of healthy diet and exercise. Studies continue to show that the conventional prescription for achieving and maintaining your best weight is still the healthiest... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 18, 2006 02:46 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Wal-Mart Becomes Player in Organic Food Market - Can this be a Good Thing? Wal-Mart, already a source of contention among many in the business world, is now embarking on a major inroad in the organic food industry. The giant retailer plans to double its offering of organic products, including dairy, meats, produce and dry goods. While this may mean lower prices for consumers, it is not welcomed news for many agricultural outfits in America. Privately owned organic farms may be driven out of business due to Wal-Mart's history... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 17, 2006 07:42 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) FDA Re-evaluating the Safety of Aspartame Aspartame is the most widely known and used artificial sweetener in the United States. Trade names the product is sold under include Equal, NutraSweet, EqualMeasure and Spoonful. Individuals trying to improve their health status often choose artificial sweeteners, avoiding the detrimental effects of high amounts of sugar or high fructose corn syrup, but this may not be the best approach for health. According to a statement issued by the United States Food and Drug Administration... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 17, 2006 07:40 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Go Straight to the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Using the proper oils for cooking is one of the key components to a heart healthy diet. There are some vegetable oils that are considered healthy, such as olive oil and canola oil, and others that are not, such as corn or the generic vegetable oil. The primary reason for this distinction is the level of saturation in the oils and the likelihood that cooking with them will create trans fatty acids. Monounsaturated oils such... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 17, 2006 03:55 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Red Grape Juice Extract Reduces Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Prior research has pointed to the heart healthy benefits of red grape extracts. Some confusion has existed regarding the role of wine, specifically red wine, in reducing cardiovascular disease risk. Most of the evidence has suggested that alcohol itself is good for reducing risk of cardiovascular disease. However, scientists have suggested the phytochemicals contained in extracts of red grapes may also have beneficial effects and a new study appears to confirm this. Spanish researchers published... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 16, 2006 06:26 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Is Research on Obesity Drugs a Good Thing? Over the last 10 years research dollars have been directed towards the obesity epidemic in large numbers. But can this direction really be good for humans? In the US more than two-thirds of adult men and women are either overweight or obese. This fact alone is astonishing, especially when compared to the rest of the world, which has very low obesity rates. Now research is focused on finding an obesity gene, or new drugs that... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 15, 2006 11:58 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Switching to Whole Grains Lowers Blood Pressure Diets rich in whole grain are healthy for our hearts because the fiber helps lower cholesterol. Now a new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that whole grain diets can also help lower blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease has many components including family history, cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar control, and weight. Once diagnosed to be at risk for a heart attack or stroke, it can often be difficult to tackle... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 15, 2006 10:38 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Ketogenic Diets Not Worth It Many people who have been overweight or obese, have tried a ketogenic diet like the Atkins diet. Although, the initial results may have been favorable, for many, the long term results are not sustainable. More importantly though, is the fact that ketogenic diets are not advised for people with certain medical conditions, like type 1 diabetes, or those with weakened vitality. A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in May 2006... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 14, 2006 06:52 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Compound In Brown Seaweed Promotes Weight Loss A compound that was isolated from wakame, a brown seaweed used in Japanese cooking, promoted weight loss in animal studies. The compound, fucoxanthin, was found to increase fat burning via a specific protein in mitochondria. The findings from this study were reported on at the 232nd American Chemical Society's national meeting this September. In the study obese rats and mice were fed the compound or placebo. Then cellular expression of UCP1, a protein that upregulates... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 14, 2006 11:34 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Mental Decline May Be Related to Combination of High Copper and Saturated Fat Intake A new study from Rush University in Chicago found that high copper intake combined with high saturated and trans fat intake may speed mental decline in the elderly. The study was published in the journal Archives of Neurology. A total of 3,700 men and women were included in the study that measured daily copper and fat intake from various sources dietary and supplemental. Cognitive decline was assessed over a period of 6 years. Interest in... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 13, 2006 01:59 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Don't be Fooled by New Claims of "Healthier" Potato Chips Potato chips are a multi-billion dollar a year industry. Frito-Lays, the top selling potato chip giant is stepping up to the plate, attempting to tap the health food industry and hoping to appeal to a health conscious group of consumers. Three years ago, they eliminated the use of hydrogenated oils in preparing the popular American snack, certainly a step in the right direction. Now they will switch from using cottonseed oil to sunflower oil, thereby... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 13, 2006 12:48 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Can Stress Trigger Eating Disorders? According to a new study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine stressful life events may trigger eating disorders. The likelihood is increased if an individual suffers from depression or other psychological disorders. The specific etiology or cause of an eating disorder cannot usually be linked to one factor but instead usually involves multiple factors. Stress or stressful life events has always been considered to be one of the primary factors involved in the development... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 12, 2006 03:30 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Honey and Glycemic Index The search for the perfect alternative to sugar is still on. Natural sugar substitutes include honey and maple syrup, both of which are touted as having a lower glycemic index than table sugar. Table or white sugar is pure sucrose, which has the highest glycemic index of all foods. Honey is comprised of both fructose and sucrose and therefore believed to have a lower glycemic index. Honey from different sources is also thought to behave... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on September 11, 2006 04:56 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Death Risk Increases As Weight Gain Continues Extreme obesity has been escalating in the U.S. Obesity is defined as being 20 to 30 pounds above the average weight for a person's age, sex and height, and having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Extreme obesity is a BMI of 40 or higher. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 325,000 deaths in the U.S. per year are linked to obesity. Obesity is a major... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 11, 2006 02:38 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Foods For Healthy Weight Loss Instead of another diet, learn to recognize good-for-you foods, so you can make your own informed choices and put them together for lasting weight management. Most diets are based on what you can't eat, but if you change the type of food you eat, you don't have to be as concerned about the amount. To the degree you eat more healthfully, you'll feel better, lose weight, and improve your health. Including the following nutritionally rich,... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 10, 2006 03:03 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) A Hormone Shot For Weight Loss? Growth hormone not only promotes bone growth, it may also help control the appetite and boost the metabolism. Growth hormone levels have been found to be lower in obese people. These lowered levels can cause fat accumulation, muscle loss, and decreased energy. Now research reports that growth hormone injections helped obese people lose weight and improve their cholesterol levels. The study, presented at the June 19-22, 2003 annual meeting of the Endocrine Society in Philadelphia,... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 9, 2006 02:56 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Are Smoothies Good For You? Smoothies are popular shake-like drinks with a blend of healthful ingredients. Commercially blended smoothie drinks are a $6 million a year business, appearing not only in health food stores but in high-end cafes and coffee shops. More people than ever are enjoying smoothie drinks, but are they good for you? According to nutritional experts, smoothies do have a place in a healthy diet, as long as the ingredients are healthful. Smoothies can be a quick,... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 9, 2006 02:47 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Cut Fruits Keep Nutrients Spanish researchers recently tested fresh-cut fruits such as mangoes, pineapples, kiwi, strawberries, watermelons, and cantaloupes for nutrient loss. They found that the fresh-cut fruits did not lose their nutrients when stored in a refrigerator for several days. Surprisingly, some cut fruits such as mango and watermelon even increased their antioxidant content when exposed to light. The study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, examined the influence of processing and storing on fresh-cut... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 9, 2006 02:43 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Is Your State Fighting the Obesity Crisis? The growing obesity crisis has become one of the nation's top public-health concerns. Obesity has been escalating at an alarming rate in the U.S. and worldwide. Health experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that over two-thirds of the adult population is now overweight, and about half of those people are fully obese. Obesity has put a huge toll on the healthcare system. Experts have estimated that about 325,000 deaths... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 8, 2006 02:41 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Easy Fish Ideas Fish has been considered a wondrous food throughout history. A rich source of low-fat protein, fish contains an abundant variety of vitamins and minerals. In addition, fish is loaded with healthful omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Research has shown that eating fish helps prevents the risk of many chronic diseases including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, mental illness, respiratory disease, and obesity. Previous studies have shown that omega-3 fatty... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 7, 2006 03:02 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Cutting Simple Carbs Lowers Cholesterol Simple (refined) carbohydrates, such as sugars, white flour products (white bread, white pasta, baked goods, junk foods) and white rice cause fat (lipid) levels to increase in the blood and deposit in the body. These harmful effects are linked to obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Now research reports that reducing simple carbohydrates (carbs) improves blood fat levels and increases the breakdown of fats. The study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, examined the... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on September 7, 2006 02:54 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Make Way for the Hybrid Hamburger - Part Soy, Part Meat Although many people have heard that red meat consumption should be limited and replaced by healthier plant-based protein, most are not quick to make the change. Soy-based "meat replacement" products don't have the same mouth feel and taste as the real thing, leading many to stick with meats. However, a new product to hit the market may change that. St. Louis based, Solae is the largest soy protein food innovation company, accounting for 50% of... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 3, 2006 06:22 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Decaf Coffee Good For Diabetes Prevention Coffee consumption has been receiving popular press lately, with new studies showing a reduced risk of various chronic illnesses, and even being referred to as the new health food. Now the latest study shows that decaffeinated coffee is linked to reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. An article published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in late June indicates coffee could become part of the standard diet and exercise recommendations for diabetes. Although prior research... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on September 3, 2006 07:23 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Dramatic Changes to the Women's, Infants and Children (WIC) Food Program For the first time since its inception, the WIC food program has made some sweeping changes in the items it agrees to cover. The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food program was started in 1974 and provided assistance to low income women with children. It is a federally funded program that works similar to food stamps, but covers a smaller list of foods. Traditionally the WIC program covered dairy products, eggs, and some beverages. Other... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 31, 2006 11:22 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Bioavailability of Soy Isoflavones in Infants Researchers in Hawaii wanted to determine the bioavailability of isoflavones from soy in infants by indirect or direct exposure. A small study was conducted that measured isoflavone excretion in urine and plasma in 18 mother/infant couples. The results were published in the August issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The researchers looked at the soy isoflavone content in the urine of mothers after consuming a known amount of soy milk for 2-4 days. Then... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 29, 2006 04:24 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Getting Your Calcium From Water Most people equate think about milk when it comes to getting dietary calcium. But for a growing group of us, milk and dairy products in general are not part of the diet, so where can we get elemental calcium? According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition we may be able to get it from water. Most water is not high in calcium, but designer waters that are high in calcium... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 28, 2006 02:29 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Soft Drinks Dealt Another Blow A review published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition dealt the soft drink industry another blow. A team of researches based at Harvard reviewed more than 30 nutritional studies and concluded that the edition of soft drinks into the standard american diet is a major factor in the obesity epidemic happening today. The report goes so far as to say that having one can of soda per day can add an extra 15 pounds... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 28, 2006 01:40 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) The Good and the Bad About High Fat Meals It seems that even moderation may not be healthy for our hearts. In the past many followed the premise that a little cheating every once in a while could not hurt, but a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that just one meal high in saturated fat may actually impede the ability of HDL, our good cholesterol, to do its job. Cholesterol in the human body consists of... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 25, 2006 03:28 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Mediterranean Diet Lowers Alzheimer's and PVD Risk The Mediterranean diet - rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, olive oil, and whole grains - has been shown to prevent heart disease, cancer, obesity, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have also found that the Mediterranean diet is linked to a longer life. Now research reports that the Mediterranean diet may also prevent the risk of Alzheimer's disease and peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Alzheimer's disease occurs in older adults and causes memory loss, confusion and eventually... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 25, 2006 02:21 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Healthy Eating Out Research suggests that families who frequently eat out may have an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Studies show that children and adults who dine out more than four times weekly eat more starch, sugar, and fat and less fruits and vegetables than those who eat at home. They also have higher blood pressure and lower levels of "good" HDL cholesterol, which are known risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Studies also reveal... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 22, 2006 01:57 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Do You Know How Nutrition Impacts Arthritis? Research suggests that eating nutrient-rich foods can help people with arthritis boost their strength and immunity. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative type of arthritis that develops over time, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. Both forms of arthritis can lead to chronic pain and disability. Here are some simple, nutritious food suggestions to help arthritis: 1. Protein- Healthy,... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 21, 2006 02:56 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Coffee Drinking Lowers Heart Deaths Coffee is a major dietary source of antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals (toxic byproducts of metabolic functions) and protect against inflammatory or oxidative stress. Research suggests that oxidative stress (damage caused by free radicals) is a major factor involved in inflammation, heart disease, and age-related diseases. The link between coffee intake and risk of death from disease due to oxidative stress has not been previously studied. Now for the first time, a study reports... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 18, 2006 02:23 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Chili Containing Meals May Improve Metabolism Many are familiar with the warm in the mouth or belly after eating a spicy meal containing chilis or chili spice. Well this heat may not be for not. Previous studies in animals and humans have shown that chili has the ability to increase metabolism and perhaps affect fat metabolism. This would be great news for individuals trying to lose weight, especially due to the ease of adding a little spice to most of your... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 14, 2006 05:17 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Palm Oil Negatively Affects Cholesterol Partially hydrogenated oils are dangerous to our health. They increase the LDL or bad cholesterol in our blood and also contribute to inflammation in the body by production of free radicals. Partially hydrogenated oils are widely used in many processed foods because of their ease and use under extreme temps and conditions. However, cooking partially hyrdrogenated oils at high temps can increase the formation of trans fatty acids, which are also bad for our cardiovascular... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 14, 2006 05:03 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) The Health of Barbecuing Grilling is the classic American summer pastime. In fact, some believe that grilling is a healthier alternative to other cooking modalities. While grilling may avoid some of the ill effects of frying in oil, there is a dark side - cancer causing compounds are produced when cooking meats on a barbecue. The carcinogenic compounds of concern are called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) which are the result of a chemical reaction where substances in meat are converted... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on August 13, 2006 06:58 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) England Calling for a Junk Food Ad Ban - Should the US? With the dramatic rise in obesity in the US, health officials are constantly evaluating approaches to combat the problem. Obesity affects over two thirds of Americans, resulting in increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and neurological diseases. Authorities in the UK are considering a number of options to ban the advertising of junk foods at various times, mostly associated with marketing to children, such as during pre-school programs, or for shows... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on August 12, 2006 03:26 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) KFC Sued Over its Cooking Fats Trans fatty acids, or hydrogenated oils, are one of the most dangerous products in the marketplace, prompting the Food and Drug Administration to require that food manufacturers clearly label products containing these harmful substances starting at the beginning of 2006. Trans fatty acids are more harmful than saturated fat and independently increases the risk of heart disease and cardiovascular events, raising LDL cholesterol while lowering HDL (good cholesterol). On June 12, 2006 the consumer group,... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on August 12, 2006 02:21 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Vegetable Antioxidants Protect Against Brain Aging Previous research has suggested that oxidative stress (damage caused by free radicals) is a major factor involved in central nervous system declines and age-related diseases. Antioxidants produced by the body neutralize harmful free radicals (toxic byproducts of metabolic functions) and protect against oxidative damage. However, antioxidant production declines with aging and is deficient in the brain. Free radical damage is believed to be a factor in age-related memory and motor performance decline. Now a study... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 10, 2006 03:03 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) How Clean Is Your Bottled Water? More than half of all Americans regularly drink bottled water, although they have access to safe public drinking water. Many consumers believe that bottled water is safer to drink than tap water. Demand for bottled water has been steadily rising, making the $22 billion bottled water business the fastest-growing beverage industry. However, some organizations report that bottled water may not be as safe and clean as we are led to believe. A four-year study conducted... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 10, 2006 02:59 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Healthy Ratio of Omega Fatty Acids Slows Prostate Cancer A new study published this month in the journal Clinical Cancer Research found that rebalancing the ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids slowed the progression of prostate cancer in animals. The study was the first to show such a strong effect of Omega 3 fatty acids on cancer growth. The standard diet for Americans is very high in Omega 6 fatty acids, which are derived from mostly corn and other vegetable sources,... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 8, 2006 04:14 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Reducing Food Allergies in Children: Tips From the Experts The prevalence of food allergies in adults and children in the US has been steadily increasing over the last decades. Many diffferent variables contribute to food allergies including timing of food introduction, types of foods introduced, family history, pesticide and insecticide use, and use of hormones and antibiotics in the foods as well as some foods that are genetically modified. According to the latest report published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology there... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 8, 2006 03:00 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Weight Denial The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that seven out of ten U.S. adults are overweight, and about a third of those people are fully obese. Obesity is defined as being 20 to 30 pounds above the average weight for a person's age, sex and height, and having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Overweight is described as having a BMI of at least 25 but less than 30.... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 8, 2006 02:40 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) High Carb, Low Glycemic Index Diet Burns Most Fat The diet war rages on. Or so one can say when trying to decide which diet may be best for losing weight. So many are turning to low carb diets to lose weight, and pushing protien, but is this really the best way? A new study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that it is not so much which nutrients are higher, but the glycemic load of the food one eats that affects... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 7, 2006 05:32 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Wendy's Revamps Menu Wendy's, the nation's third largest burger chain, has revamped its menu. The chain will switch to a healthier, non-hydrogenated cooking oil, as well as eliminate its "biggie" and "great biggie" beverage portion names. Although Wendy's will be using a healthier cooking oil, nutritional experts are concerned that the name change will encourage larger portion sizes. Wendy's increased the portion size and calorie content of its soft drinks after the name change. The 'biggie' soft drink,... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 7, 2006 01:09 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) FDA Finds Benzene In Soft Drinks Exposure to heat and light can cause the formation of benzene (a cancer-causing chemical) in soft drinks that contain vitamin C (ascorbic acid) or a similar acid and sodium benzoate or potassium benzoate preservatives. Testing on animals has found that repeated exposures to benzene levels above 80 parts per million can cause leukemia and other blood diseases. Federal standards set for benzene specify less than 5 parts per billion (ppb) in drinking water. However, there... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on August 5, 2006 02:41 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Maintain Healthy Heart Function With Fish Heart health is dependent on many factors including blood pressure and cholesterol levels. But what many people fail to address is the electrical activity in the heart, or the heart beat its self. A heart beat is accomplished when an electrical signal travels from a specialized area in the atrium down to the ventricles, which results in the lub-dub, two contraction system of the heart. How efficiently the electrical current travels gives a heart rhythm... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on August 2, 2006 10:59 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) High Fiber and Fruit Intake Benefits Weight Loss Forget the fad diets, sticking to the basic recommendations for food group intake may be the best way to lose weight and keep it off. This is the recommendation from researchers in Los Angeles that studied the diets of 52 normal weight individuals and 52 overweight or obese individuals. They found that normal weight persons had more fiber and fruit in their diets compared to their overweight counterparts. Fad diets often result in the weight... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 31, 2006 02:22 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Coffee - The New Health Food? Emerging evidence suggests that coffee may actually be beneficial in some measures of health and in preventing certain diseases. Not too many years ago, coffee consumption was frowned upon by many health practitioners and researchers. Current research studies suggest compounds found in coffee can reduce the risk of various diseases and improve concentration, memory and athletic performance. Coffee contains powerful antioxidants that can reduce systemic inflammatory processes. A very large study of postmenopausal women just... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on July 30, 2006 10:55 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Mushrooms as a Source of Vitamin D Vitamin D is necessary for absorption of calcium, which makes it essential for bone health. In childhood, vitamin D is necessary to prevent rickets. In adulthood, we still require vitamin D for bone health, but also for its protective effect against muscle weakness, internal cancers, type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Vitamin D can be made in the skin from a precursor of vitamin D, when there is exposure to the sun. It can also... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on July 30, 2006 08:32 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Health Benefits of Fiber When most people think of fiber, they first think of bad tasting drinks to keep the bowels moving regularly. However, getting the recommended 25-35 grams of fiber daily can be much more pleasant and have far reaching effects outside of the colon. Following the dietary recommendations for whole grains and plentiful fruits and vegetables eliminates the need for sloppy concoctions or fiber pills. Starting the day with a high fiber cereal (10-12 grams) and fruit... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on July 30, 2006 07:36 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Fat Blocking Drug to be Sold without a Prescription With no end in sight to the obesity epidemic, policymakers and overweight Americans are interested in a fat blocking drug which has been approved by the FDA for sale over the counter. The drug, Xenical, made by GlaxoSmithKline was approved for sale without a prescription in early April of 2006. This drug is currently available by prescription and is generically known as orlistat (made by the European company Roche). On shelves, the fat blocker will... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on July 29, 2006 02:26 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Room Temperature Watermelon More Nutritious Believe it or not, the temperture that foods are stored and served may have a greater impact on their nutrient value than we think. This comes after a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry found that room temperature watermelon contains more antioxidants than refridgerated watermelon. For most people who enjoy watermelon in the summertime, there can be nothing more satisfying than pulling the fruit from the fridge and slicing off a... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 28, 2006 02:29 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Vegan Diet for Type 2 Diabetes Type 2 diabetes, or adult onset diabetes affects nearly 20 million Americans in the US today. The disease develops due to poor dietary and exercise habits, with some susceptibility linked to childhood and prenatal health. Most individuals with adult onset diabetes are started on a diet plan based on recommendations by the American Diabetes Association that focuses on caloric intake and low carbohydrate, low sugar meals and snacks. But a new study published by the... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 27, 2006 04:54 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Top Nutritional Tips for Arthritis The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative type of arthritis that develops over time, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. Both forms of arthritis can lead to chronic pain and disability. However, research suggests that eating nutrient-rich foods packed with vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants can help control arthritis symptoms, reduce pain medications and slow the progression of... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on July 25, 2006 02:11 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Low Salt Diet May Not Lower Heart Risk Experts are questioning the role of salt-restricted diets in blood pressure regulation and protection against heart disease. The current US Dietary Guidelines recommend less than 2,300 milligrams (about a teaspoon) a day of table salt. Now research reports that a low-salt diet may increase the risk of heart disease. The study, published in The American Journal of Medicine, investigated the association of salt intake on the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Researchers at Albert Einstein... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on July 24, 2006 01:59 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Whole Foods Fight Heart Disease Carbohydrates are divided into two groups, simple (sugars) and complex (starches). Simple (refined) carbs, such as sugars, white flour products (white bread, white pasta, baked goods, junk foods) and white rice are digested and absorbed quickly, causing blood sugar and insulin levels to rapidly increase. These harmful effects are linked to obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Whole foods (complex carbs) such as brown rice, oats, whole grain products (whole grain bread, whole grain pasta), fruits,... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on July 24, 2006 01:47 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Teens Drink More Soda Than Milk The soda debate is in the forefront of local news programs, with many public schools now banning the presence of soda machines on their properties. The evidence is pretty clear that soda consumption is linked to obesity in children and adults. Controlling obesity is a top priority for the Department of Health and Human Services, as it will soon overtake smoking as the leading cause of death. A report published by the Center for Science... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on July 16, 2006 07:21 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Heart Disease Risk Escalates in Diabetics There are two main forms of diabetes mellitus (DM). Type 1 DM is most always diagnosed early in life and results from a lack of insulin production by the pancreas. Type 2 DM (adult onset) is usually diagnosed later in life and results from poor tissue response to insulin and decreased productiving in the pancreas. Type 2 DM is associated with increase risk of many other health conditions including heart disease, kidney disease, eye damage,... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 14, 2006 01:17 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Cherry Juice Decreases Muscle Pain Cherry juice has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties and several compounds have been identified that have produced mixed results in clinical trials. A new study points to cherry juice as a means of reducing inflammation in muscles after intense workouts, therefore reducing perceived pain. The small study enrolled 14 younger males and had them drink 12 ounces of a tart cherry juice/apple juice mixture or placebo (Kool-Aid) twice a day for eight days. On... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 14, 2006 12:55 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Cherry Juice Decreases Muscle Pain Cherry juice has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties and several compounds have been identified that have produced mixed results in clinical trials. A new study points to cherry juice as a means of reducing inflammation in muscles after intense workouts, therefore reducing perceived pain. The small study enrolled 14 younger males and had them drink 12 ounces of a tart cherry juice/apple juice mixture or placebo (Kool-Aid) twice a day for eight days. On... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 14, 2006 12:55 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Marinating Meat Can Cut Carcinogenic Effects Being health conscious does not always mix well with eating meat, especially if you like to grill the meat. Animal proteins, in particular beef and pork, are associated with higher levels of saturated fats and increased risk for heart disease and stroke. If you throw charbroiling or grilling into the equation, the risk for serious health consequences increases. Grilling meats, or any food for that matter can increase the consumption of carcinogenic compounds. Because meats... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 14, 2006 12:18 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Three Ways to Begin Losing Weight Today Obesity will soon take over smoking as the leading cause of death in the United States. Two thirds of Americans are now overweight or obese and the trend is growing. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests that people who are overweight are attracted to each other and this condition is then passed on to their children. Diet and exercise is the only way to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. However there are simple steps that can... More» Posted by Brad Chase on July 13, 2006 10:14 AM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Cutting Calories May Lower Risk of Age-Related Diseases Previous studies have suggested that calorie restriction can increase longevity and decrease oxidative stress (DNA damage) in a variety of species. Now research reports that calorie restriction in humans may provide similar benefits seen in animals, including low levels of insulin and reduced DNA damage. These markers are associated with longevity and a lower risk of age-related diseases including atherosclerosis, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's. The randomized controlled study, published in the Journal of the American... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on July 12, 2006 02:22 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) How to Manage Your Cravings for Sweets Many people who are trying to lose weight often foil their dietary plans because of cravings. One of the most common cravings is that for sweet treats, which is likely an evolutionary behavior. In order for the body to function we need a constant supply of glucose in the bloodstream, so craving sweets makes sense. However, now food is anything but scarce in America and obesity continues to plague society. So what are we to... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on July 12, 2006 12:15 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Decaf Coffee Protects Against Diabetes Numerous studies have shown benefits for coffee consumption from protecting the against diseases of the heart, brain, and diabetes. It has been thought, not proven, that this benefit was due to the caffeine in coffee, but a new study proves otherwise when it comes to diabetes protection. Prior studies had looked at coffee consumption in men and women and found that it lowered diabetes risk when consumed in amounts greater than 3 cups per day.... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 11, 2006 04:08 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Feeling the Heartburn in America It seems that Americans have a greater amount of heartburn than other countries in the world according to a report in the Lancet this June. The report published incidence of heartburn, a gastro-esophageal reflux (GER) related symptom, in Americans and in those in Asian countries. Americans have more than double the amount of heartburn than Asians when comparing daily, weekly and monthly incidence. Results were gathered from more than 30 studies that investigated heartburn and... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 11, 2006 03:17 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Abdominal Fat Increases Colon Cancer Risk Our risk for certain cancers may be increased depending on where those extra pounds rest according to a new study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. The study followed more than 350,000 men and women in Europe to determine which lifestlye factors affected cancer risk. They found that those men and women who carry more abdominal fat may be at increased risk for developing colon cancer. The men and women in the study... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 11, 2006 02:58 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Diet Rich in Healthy Fats Better Than No Fat Diet Many are aware that the Mediterranean style diet has purported benefits for protecting the heart when compared to the standard american diet. But a new study released this July in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that the Mediterranean diet is also superior to the low fat diet when it comes to reducing risk factors for heart disease and stroke. It has been decades since doctors and researchers recognized that those living in the Mediterranean... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on July 11, 2006 02:40 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Health Benefits of Low Fat Dairy The popularity of dairy products as a mean to lose weight is apparent every time we turn on the TV or drive by a billboard. Got milk seems to be a catch phrase for the last decade. Not surprisingly, all the latest research on the health benefits of dairy seems to be conclusive: Consumption of low fat dairy products does a body good. Low fat dairy products offer several nutritional benefits. They are high in... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on June 30, 2006 10:56 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Americans At Increased Risk For Diabetes The risk of developing diabetes is directly linked to weight. Those individuals who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop diabetes. This risk factor is independant of any family history, dietary habits, or lifestyle factors. Simply put, the more weight on your body that is fat and not lean muscle mass, the more likely you will develop diabetes. It is also true no matter what your age is, overweigth adolescents are at just... More» Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on June 30, 2006 08:00 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) The Dangers of Supermarket Meats When consumers buy meat at their local grocery store, they often look at the color of the meat, and usually steer clear of meats that are brown or discolored. However, what many shoppers do not realize is that meats and tuna purchased at most grocery chains are treated with carbon monoxide gas which keeps the cut of meat looking red and fresh. This process is accepted by the FDA and is categorized as GRAS (generally... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on June 30, 2006 07:21 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Are Americans Consuming Too Much Iron? Most people have heard about iron deficiency and anemia, but not much is said about consuming too much iron. When people think of iron sources most think red meat, which can indeed raise iron stores. One study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2002 76;1375-1384) showed that eating more than 4 servings of red meat per week raised the risk of high iron stores 3 fold when compared to those who eat four servings... More» Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on June 30, 2006 05:16 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Can Drinking Coffee Protect Women? Once again, a study has shown that coffee provides some benefit to our sanity and health aside from providing a jolt of energy. Coffee in a brewed form contains very high levels of antioxidants that are effective at scavenging free radicals in the body. A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition this may showed a protective action against inflammatory conditions in women. More» Posted by Kristopher Foster on June 29, 2006 11:12 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Fiber Reduces Disease and Obesity Risks Previous research has reported that high fiber intake helps maintain or improve health. Now a study reports that high fiber intake may reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease. More» Posted by Kristopher Foster on June 29, 2006 11:08 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Fish Oils for Fighting Fat?! A double-blind, parallel, dietary intervention trial, presented at the national meeting of the Australasian section of the American Oil Chemists' Society in Adelaide, Australia, investigated the effect of fish and/or fish oil supplementation in combination with moderate aerobic exercise in overweight participants at risk for coronary disease. More» Posted by Kristopher Foster on June 28, 2006 02:58 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Soybean Oil Risks Trans fats raise blood levels of artery-clogging LDL (bad) cholesterol while lowering HDL (good) cholesterol, and are linked to heart disease. They may also increase the risk of certain cancers. Since January, 2006 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has required manufacturers to list the amount of trans fat on nutrition labels. This requirement has increased the demand for genetically modified soybeans that do not require hydrogenation to create oil. The process of hydrogenation creates... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on June 26, 2006 01:44 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Omega 3s for Back and Neck Pain Relief One of the most common complaints in late adult life is neck or back pain. As a matter of fact it is estimated that more than 25% of Americans suffer from degenerative joint disease, or DJD. DJD affects all joints, but in particular those used day in and day out like the spine, hip, and knee. In most physician visits back or neck pain will be mentioned as a complaint while most MDs do not... More» Posted by Kristopher Foster on June 26, 2006 12:48 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) The Salt Debate Current dietary recommendations for salt intake are being vigorously debated by the medical community. Salt aficionados also debate whether specific types of salt may have certain health benefits. Experts are questioning the role of salt in blood pressure regulation, as new research suggests that other factors in blood pressure control may be more important. Some experts believe that restrictions on salt intake have been overemphasized. However, other experts argue that the current American Heart Association... More» Posted by Elaine Gavalas on June 23, 2006 02:17 PM Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) Dietary Changes Improve Insulin Sensitivity A recent study proves dietary changes improve insulin sensitivity in patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). A recent study in the journal Fertility and Sterility focused on the effect a low carb diet has on insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS.