Taste for Life

More Men Are Cooking These Days

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

The amount of men preparing meals at home has reached a historical high of 18 percent, according to a study of 2,000 households by the NPD Group, a provider of consumer information. The study showed that younger men who live with others cook most frequently and that 67 percent of men under age 25 will make one or more of the next 10 meals. The increase in male cooks has also led to an increase in year-round grilling, up 7 percent to 38 percent from 10 years ago.

The Obesity-Sleep Connection

Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

A recent government study of over 87,000 Americans conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics, part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is linking too much (more than nine hours per night) or too little sleep (fewer than 6 hours per night) directly to obesity. The study also associated light sleepers to higher smoking rates, higher alcohol use, and less physical activity. Although other potential factors such as depression can effect sleeplessness and even overeating, researchers feel the study is conclusive enough to show a connection between weight management and sleep.

''We're getting to the point that they may start recommending getting enough sleep as a standard approach to weight loss and the prevention of obesity,'' said James Gangwisch, a respected Columbia University sleep researcher, who was not involved in the study.

Poor Soil Effects World's Food Crisis

Fri, 9 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

Poor soil is partly to blame for the continuing worldwide food crisis. While global economic factors as well as natural disasters such as floods and droughts are the driving reasons for drop off in enough sustainable crop yields to feed the world, researchers are calling for much needed attention to the usage and quality of soil as the next big issue at hand. According to a March 2008 report by a worldwide consortium of agricultural institutions, nearly 1 million square miles of cropland in sub-Saharan Africa have shown a "consistent significant decline." Even with genetic improvements in corn making the majority of poor African farmers yield considerably less than they should because their lands have become drastically infertile. And for many of the poor farmers of these regions, purchasing costly fertilizers is not an financial option. Researchers suggest the issue can be reversed with investment in farming education, crop rotation, high quality seed, and proper fertilizer.

May is Bike To Work Month

Thu, 8 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

With each mile you bike, rather than drive, you can save about 1 pound in CO2 emissions. So why not join the nationwide call this May to cut back your usage of fossil fuels (and save gas money in the process) by taking part in the national "Bike To Work" month? The League of American Bicyclists is promoting Bike-to-Work Week from May 12-16 and Bike-to-Work Day on Friday, May 16. Across the nation, local organizations and riding groups are offering a number of educational and safety courses to help promote safe and practical bicycling. To check out what your state and city are doing to promote turning off the car and taking to two wheels, visit http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bikemonth/events.php. To learn more about the League of American Bicyclists and "Bike To Work" events, visit www.bikeleague.org.

Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

Wed, 7 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

The National Association of Letter Carriers in conjunction with the United States Postal Service will be collecting food donations to help serve families in need in your community during their "Stamp Out Hunger" food drive on Saturday, May 10. To participate, leave non-perishable food items in a bag near your mailbox before your regular mail delivery and your letter carrier will pick it up and it will be delivered to local food banks. Recommended foods include canned goods, juice, pasta, cereal and rice. They are unable to accept any expired foods or glass containers. For more information, go to www.helpstampouthunger.com.

Ibuprofen Can Reduce Risk Of Alzheimer's Disease

Tue, 6 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

A recent study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, reports that long-term usage of pain-management drugs such as ibuprofen may actually help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The five-year study followed over 250,000 individuals over the age of 55, some with existing diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and some with no symptoms of dementia. Only non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were used and evaluated. Those who were given ibuprofen over the five year study were 40 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease and the longer the drug was taken directly impacted the lower risk of developing dementia.

"Some of these medications taken long term decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease, but it's very dependent on the exact drugs used. It doesn't appear that all NSAIDs decrease the risk at the same rate," said study author Steven Vlad, MD, with Boston University School of Medicine. "One reason ibuprofen may have come out so far ahead is that it is by far the most commonly used."

FDA Finally Approves IBS Drug

Mon, 5 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

The first IBS-C (irritable bowel syndrome accompanied by constipation) treatment to be approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) was announced April 30. The drug, Amitiza (lubiprostone), was approved to treat women 18 and older with IBS-C. IBS, which possesses symptoms including cramps, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea, affects twice as many women as men. Amitiza’s effectiveness was proven in two separate studies covering over 1,000 subjects (of which 90 percent were women). The FDA reported that the effectiveness of the drug in men wasn't conclusively established during clinical testing.

For more information on Amitiza, visit the FDA’s web site.

Free Asthma Screenings in May

Fri, 2 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

As part of National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, 250 locations across the United States are offering free asthma screenings during the month of May. Sponsored by the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, the screening program has tested more than 108,000 people during it’s run. More than 22 million Americans, 6.5 million of them children, suffer from asthma, a chronic inflammation of the airways in the lungs.

Allergist John Winder, chairman of the Nationwide Asthma Screening Program, said that “the screening program gives patients who are still having breathing problems a chance to meet with an allergist, discuss their symptoms and learn how to feel better." A list of free asthma screening locations and dates, online versions of the breathing questionnaires, and more information on treating and controlling asthma are on the ACAAI Web site at www.acaai.org.

The Numbers on Rising Grocery Prices

Thu, 1 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

Rising food costs are on the minds of many American families these days. Escalating grocery costs could actually be worse for consumers than rising gas prices, as most families spend three times more of food than they do on gas. On the average, gas is only about 4 percent of the American household budget while food is 13 percent.

To see how much food prices have risen, compare what some of these basic foods cost in 2006 versus March 2008.

Loaf of white bread: $1.05 (‘06) — $1.28 (‘08)
1 dozen eggs: $1.45 (‘06) — $2.18 (‘08)
1 lb. of red delicious apples: $0.96 (‘06) — $1.16 (‘08)
1 lb. of ground beef: $2.28 (‘06) — $2.33 (‘08)
1 lb. of whole chicken: $1.06 (‘06) — $1.16 (‘08)
1 gallon of whole milk: $3.20 (‘06) — $3.87 (‘08)

Bush Calls To Buy From Local Farmers

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

President George W. Bush said in public address April 29, 2008 that to offset the increasing grocery costs, Americans should buy food and products from local farmers. The suggestion was followed by Bush challenging the impact of existing large subsidies to multimillionaire farmers. Many across the nation, including Sustainable Table, a non-profit group that celebrates the sustainable food movement, have applauded the president's recommendation at a time when economic strain is influencing consumerism across the board.

“For the first time ever, Sustainable Table agrees with President Bush’s statement made today that large subsidies to multimillionaire farmers should be cut,” said Diane Hatz, Founder/Director of Sustainable Table. “We also think people should buy locally grown, sustainably produced food from small family farmers because it can save people money since it does not have to be shipped long distances, and saves consumers the added costs of transportation, which has helped make the price of food skyrocket because of the rising costs of oil and energy.”

Acne Starts at Your Mouth

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Recent research shows that eliminating junk food from your diet results in a clearer complexion, debunking the widespread belief that food plays no role in the development of acne. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows a link between high-glycemic foods (those high in sugar and processed grains) and acne. When a group of young men aged 15 to 25 abandoned their typical diet of overprocessed and high-sugar foods for 12 weeks of healthy eating (whole grains, lean meat and fish, and fruits and vegetables), their pimples were reduced by 51 percent.

The theory is that foods with a high-glycemic index cause blood sugar to spike. The body reacts by releasing a surge of insulin to bring down the blood sugar. This extra insulin stimulates oil-producing hormones and accelerates cell growth in the pores, which can lead to acne.

For those seeking additional relief, several over-the-counter treatments have proven relatively effective in fighting acne. Benzoyl peroxide is the most common and is believed to kill the bacteria that cause pimples. The treatment comes in different concentrations; it is advisable to begin with lower dosages because the product can cause irritation.

Glycolic acid, which is considered helpful in opening clogged pores, is another popular acne-fighting ingredient, as is salicylic acid, thought to work by cleansing the skin of dead cells.

Reduce Cataract Risk

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

A 10-year study of almost 40,000 women revealed that a high intake of vitamin E and the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin significantly decrease the risk of developing cataracts. Foods high in lutein include corn, kiwi, pumpkin, zucchini, spinach, yellow squash, and red seedless grapes. Zeaxanthin is found in orange juice, honeydew, and mango. Egg yolk has high concentrations of both carotenoids, and almonds and hazelnuts are particularly good sources of vitamin E.

Strawberries Can Aid Your Brain

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Luscious-looking strawberries are more than just a tasty treat. Their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory polyphenolics help protect brain function as we grow older. Research at the Harvard School of Public Health also links two or more servings a week with reduced risk for cardiovascular disease. Other research finds that strawberries inhibit the oxidation of LDL (lousy) cholesterol, promote plaque stability, lower the risk of thrombosis, and improve vascular endothelial function.

Of all berries, strawberries and black raspberries show the most significant anticancer effects in cell studies. And strawberry extract exhibits anticancer activity in other investigations.

Fresh and plentiful this time of year, strawberries taste best at room temperature. Don’t wash them until you’re ready to eat them, and freeze any extra berries so that you can enjoy this healthy fruit year-round. Whenever possible, buy organic, as conventional strawberries are high in toxic and persistent pesticides.

Babies, Eat Your Veggies

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Babies who get to taste a variety of fruits and vegetables may eat more of them and learn to like their flavors, finds a new study. Seventy-four infants exposed to eight days of a variety of vegetables and fruits showed the ability to discriminate between flavors and ate more green beans, carrots, and spinach. Interestingly, breastfeeding may enhance babies’ acceptance of fruits and vegetables if mothers eat these foods on a regular basis. And taking it one step further, researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, write, “Prenatal experiences with food flavors, which are transmitted from the mother’s diet to the amniotic fluid, lead to greater acceptance and enjoyment of those foods during weaning.” So, Moms, eat those fruits and veggies if you want your child to grow up grabbing for a carrot stick instead of candy!

Cranberries Have Healing Powers

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

The small red cranberry packs a big punch healthwise. Tufts University researchers find that polyphenols in the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) have important cardiovascular benefits, helping prevent oxidation of LDL (lousy) cholesterol and reducing blood pressure.

Flavonoids in cranberries also protect against Streptococcus mutans. And hippuric acid in cranberries can inhibit E. coli bacteria, often linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs).

A recent review of 10 studies shows that cranberry juice is effective for UTIs, particularly among women with recurrent infections. It’s a good idea to drink cranberry juice (either diluted or lightly sweetened) to prevent infections. One study found that women who consumed about 10 ounces of cranberry drinks daily for six months had pathogenic bacteria counts only half as high as women drinking a placebo.

Yogurt Is Even Better Than We Thought

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

A fermented dairy product, yogurt has long been a popular health food, largely because it provides beneficial bacteria that help support digestion and your immune system. Now researchers are discovering that yogurt (and the friendly flora it contains) may also enhance nutrient absorption. One study shows that yogurt increases blood levels of several B vitamins, for example.
Two other investigations—one using Lactobacillus casei, the other combining lactobacillus with bifidobacterium—link yogurt (and its healthy bacteria) with higher blood levels of antioxidants. One study, in fact, finds that a combination of prebiotics and probiotics may help fight atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. “The improvement in antioxidative stress . . . may warrant further research in diseases in which oxidative stress plays a role [such as coronary vascular disease] or in populations in which the gut microbiota composition has been disturbed,” researchers conclude. So take your daily multivitamin/mineral formula with yogurt.

Take Vitamin E to Breath Easier

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Several new studies look at environmental and nutritional links to respiratory ailments. One study suggests that the rise of childhood asthma may be linked to an inadequate amount of vitamin E in the diet during pregnancy. In another, prenatal exposure to passive smoking has been shown to be a risk factor for wheezing and asthma in children. Yet another recent study indicates that exposure to secondhand smoke in early infancy increases the risk of sensitization to indoor inhalant allergens and food allergens in children. Preliminary research indicates that antioxidant supplementation can offer some protection. Particularly good dietary sources of antioxidants include apples, dark chocolate, pecans, blueberries, strawberries, cranberries, and beans.

Women in Their Reproductive Years

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Women in their reproductive years are advised to take a daily multivitamin/mineral with folic acid (0.4 to 1.0 mg) to minimize the chance of specific birth defects. A diet of folate-rich foods including fortified grains, spinach, lentils, chickpeas, asparagus, broccoli, peas, Brussels sprouts, corn, and oranges, in addition to a daily multi with folic acid, is recommended for at least two to three months before conception, throughout the pregnancy, and four to six weeks postpartum or as long as breastfeeding continues. Women who have special health concerns or risks are advised to talk with their healthcare practitioner to establish an optimal level of folic acid supplementation (generally requiring additional amounts for longer periods of time).

Organic Foods Are Indeed More Nutritious

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Organically grown plant-based foods are 25 percent more nutrient dense, on average, than nonorganic foods. And for those who enjoy a glass of cool lemonade in the warmer months, organic lemonade was shown to contain ten times more eriocitrin (an important anti-oxidant in lemons) than its conven-tional counterpart.

Prevent Spring Injuries

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Spring is a busy time of year—for homeowners and hospital emergency rooms. In 2005 alone, medical professionals in this country treated more than 530,000 ladder injuries, nearly 72,000 garden tool–related accidents, and about 239,000 lawn-mowing mishaps. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind to ensure you don’t become a seasonal statistic.

Remember proper lifting techniques. Keep feet shoulder-width apart. With your back upright and stomach muscles tight, bend at the knees. Use your leg muscles to lift as you stand. Don’t lift any object by yourself if it’s an awkward shape or too heavy.
Don’t stand on your couch or chair to clean hard-to-reach places. Instead, always use a step stool.
Ladders for chores such as cleaning gutters and painting should never be placed on an uneven, soft, or wet surface. Make sure the ladder is on a firm, level surface before you begin to climb. To ensure you don’t lose your balance and fall, follow the bellybutton rule: Your navel should never go beyond the sides of the ladder.
Wear gloves while gardening to reduce blistering and protect your skin.
Take breaks and drink fluids often to prevent dehydration.

Doctors and Nurses Take Supplements

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Doctors (72 percent) and nurses (89 percent) are most likely to supplement their diets, compared to 68 percent of the rest of us. Their faves: A multivitamin/mineral tops the list, followed by vitamins C, B complex, D, E, and calcium in descending order. Why? Healthcare professionals believe nutritional supplements play an important role in improving overall health. Specifically, nurses are more likely than physicians to take nutritional supplements for bone health, while doctors tend to take more supplements for heart health.

Omega 3s for Depression

Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Omega 3 essential fatty acids may help ease depression according to a study published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry. Although further testing is necessary, initial results showed that patients who were given a daily omega 3 supplement of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) recorded a 50 percent drop in depression rating. Subjects who were only given the traditionally-prescribed medication fluoxetine recorded a 56 percent drop. Subjects who were given both EPA and fluoxetine recorded an 81 percent drop.

Despite insufficient research to further prove these findings, researchers suggest that the the impact of dietary and or supplementary omega 3s to help ease depression is worth pursuing to offer a non-medicinal alternative to depression sufferers.

Fewer Cavities in Overweight Kids

Mon, 7 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

It surprised researchers and professionals alike, but a recent study published in Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology revealed that overweight kids and teens actually had healthier teeth, including fewer cavities, than their non-overweight peers. The study evaluated over 18,000 children ages 2 to 18, with results of kids ages 2 to 5 showing no difference in tooth decay between overweight and non-overweight kids. Children ages 6 to 18, however, showed that non-overweight children had more cavities on the whole.

Although the results have raised more questions than they brought conclusions, researchers speculate that non-overweight children are consuming more sugary and sweet foods and beverages while overweight children are consuming more fatty foods.

Harnessing Prebiotic Power

Fri, 4 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Society for General Microbiology announced that natural sugars found in breast milk, called oligasaccharides, that help to reduce negative reactions to Salmonella and other bacteria in infants are just as effective when used in prebiotic foods. Although it is not clear how such sugars actually work, researchers theorize that such prebiotics stimulate our stomach’s own natural bacteria that then are prepared to battle more serious bacteria introduced to our bodies from external sources, such as Salmonella from contaminated food. Such findings are particularly intriguing for those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, upset stomachs, and diarrhea. Such research is not only beneficial for humans, but also for animals, particularly livestock. Further research would potentially lead to improved livestock health and reducing economic losses as a result of gastrointestinal infections of farm animals.

Where Dog-Lovers Can Unite

Thu, 3 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

A new web site for all things dogs has been launched to unite dog lovers and dog service workers. DogServicesUSA.com was designed to provide a community portal for anyone looking for dog service workers, such as veterinarians, dog groomers, dog walkers, and breeders. The site also features informative articles, job postings, and community forums, as well as "Lost and Found" postings and dog rescue and adoption opportunities. "With DogServicesUSA, we have created the first comprehensive online hub for families and individuals with dogs and the services they need," stated founder Paul Gordon. "Everything is easy to find and completely relevant to people who love their dogs."

Childhood Obesity and Beverages

Wed, 2 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Sugary beverages, such as soda, fruit-flavored drinks, and sweetened iced tea, hold a growing influence on the waistlines of U.S. children. According to Children's Hospital Boston obesity program director David Ludwig, M.D., Ph.D., the odds of a child becoming obese increases nearly 60 percent with each sugary drink he or she consumes in a day. His findings were collected independent of the child's food diet, physical activity, and even television watching. ludwig's results also showed that children who regularly drank sugary drinks took in more than 200 more calories than their peers who did not drink sugary drinks. This reveals that children who drink more calories rarely counterbalance that by eating fewer calories.

Instead of high sugar drinks, try giving your kids more water, 100% fruit juice, or fat-free or low-fat milk. And keep the sugary drinks out of the house as best you can.

Recycle Your Old Fridge

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

The U.S. Department of Energy is launching a new campaign called “Recycle My Old Fridge” to help promote the new criteria for ENERGY STAR refrigerators that goes into effect on April 28, 2008. New guidelines require Energy Star-labeled refrigerators to operate at 20% below the minimum energy efficiency standards. The campaigns offers this insight:

Among all household appliances, refrigerators are the largest consumers of energy
A fridge over 16 years old can cost up to $100 per year in energy bills
An Energy Star fridge can cut those bills in half

To find out more about the “Recycle My Old Fridge” campaign and how to responsibly recycle your old fridge, visit their web site at www.recyclemyoldfridge.com.

Grocery Prices Spike

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Federal Labor Department figures recently published reveal a 5.1% increase in U.S. grocery costs over the past 12 months. This increase is the most substantial increase since the early 1990's. Despite a few exceptions, most grocery categories have been effected, including a 17% spike for milk, dried beans, peas, and lentils, 15% spike for cheese, 13% spike for rice and pasta, and 12% spike for bread. The largest spike has been eggs which have seen a 62% spike over the past 2 years. While consumer goods are seeing a drop in prices (such as home electronics, computers, cars, and clothing), economists suggest the increase in grocery costs isa direct reflection of increasing fuel costs, the sloping value of the U.S. dollar which actually increases exporting crops away from the U.S., and rising prices for farm commodities such as milk, corn and wheat.

Shock Your Sense of Smell

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

A recent study shows that your sense of smell may heighten when you are afraid or uncomfortable. Wen Li, lead researcher at Notherwestern University, found 12 healthy volunteers to smell sets of laboratory chemicals with odors distinctly different from ones in every day life. One chemical, the odd chemical, had a normally indistinguishable scent from the other two, and volunteers had trouble guessing what it was. However when the volunteers were shocked just enough to cause discomfort, they could correctly guess the odd odor 70 percent of the time. MRI scans showed this was not just coincidence. The scans showed during the shock tests, the brain better imprints the scent so it can be distinguished more quickly from a similar odor. “Work like this really says that the human sense of smell has much more capacity than people usually give it credit,” Jay Gottfried, Northwestern neuroscientist, said.

These Foods Stain Your Teeth

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

The bad news is that anything that stains a white shirt will stain your teeth. The good news is that changes in diet can help reverse the yellowing trend. Here are a few simple tips from NYC Smile Design that will help you maintain your pearly whites naturally.

Dos:
Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables. Apples, carrots, cauliflower,and cucumbers can work to scrub off stains.
Broccoli, lettuce, and spinach create a film on teeth that prevents stains while high-fiber and whole foods help cleanse teeth.
Drink staining liquids through a straw to avoid direct contactwith teeth.
Don’ts:
Vinegar contains a high amount of acid and reduces a tooth’s protective enamel over time (so limit its intake).
Sports drinks, energy drinks, and fitness waters are great for hydration, but they can also wear down your teeth due to theacids they contain.
High-fructose corn syrup, sugars, and sticky foods that remainon the teeth for a long time can decrease a tooth’s ability to ward off stains.
Don’t smoke! Tobacco is the biggest enemy in keeping your pearly whites white.

Berries Great for Your Cardio System

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

A recent study in Finland has found that the consumption of a variety of berries, including black currants and strawberries, can reduce blood pressure, help raise HDL (healthy) cholesterol, and inhibit platelet function. The study asked participants to enhance their diet by eating a moderate amount of berries in the form of nectar, puree, or juice each day. Researchers attribute the conclusion of greater cardiovascular protection to a rise in polyphenols and vitamin C, which are extremely plentiful in berries. While this study is focused on cardiovascular health, it adds to other berry research that found lower LDL (lousy) cholesterol levels and possible protection against cancer and Alzheimer’s in persons who regularly ate berries.

Breastfeeding to Prevent Baby Allergies

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Doctors agree that breastfeeding for at least four months can prevent or delay eczema, wheezing, and cow milk allergies in children. In contrast, there is no convincing evidence that feeding babies soy-based formulas, avoiding certain foods like peanuts during pregnancy, or delaying the introduction of fish or eggs until a child is three will prevent allergies, according to a report in the January issue of Pediatrics. The new findings replace a previous policy statement of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which recommended such practices.

Discarding Expired Makeup

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Applying makeup may have dangerous consequences if bacteria is transferred from fingertips to cosmetics, resulting in the growth of micro-organisms. Dermatologists generally recommend discarding makeup one year after the initial opening of a product to help prevent risk. Bacteria can also grow in mascara tubes, and due to the risk of eye infection, experts recommend replacing mascara every three months. For your own safety, note when you open a product and monitor its shelf life. Makeup sold in the United States does not need to be labeled with expiration dates although some companies do so voluntarily. Expiration dates should be considered general guidelines. If the product is not stored properly, it may expire well before its expiration date.

Vitamin C Decreases Belly on Women

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Increasing consumption of vitamin C, calcium, and dairy products may decrease abdominal weight in women ages 40 to 60, reports a recent study of 900 women in Iran. Women who did not consume enough vitamin C had a 131 percent increase in their probability to carry excess weight in their abdomens. Low calcium increased likelihood by an additional 30 percent. The study, which stressed the importance of having a healthy diet and lifestyle, cited other factors that contribute to abdominal weight gain, such as menopausal state, smoking, and depression.

Why Garlic Protects Against Cancer

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

A new study appears to shed light on why garlic may protect the body against various cancers. Researchers at the University of Alabama discovered that adding garlic to human red blood cells immediately increased the production of hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide has been found to relax blood vessels and increase blood flow.

The amount of garlic recommended for this beneficial effect is two medium-sized cloves of garlic per day, which may seem like a lot to some Americans. This quota can be met quite easily, however, with a variety of snacks including hummus with vegetables and garlic crackers. You could also try sprinkling fresh garlic on your meals as you cook. Before adding crushed or chopped garlic to your food, let it sit for 15 minutes—this allows the enzymes to react and increases its benefits.

Organic Reduces Pesticide Risk 97%

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST
The Organic Center, a Colorado-based organization devoted to presenting scientific evidence on how organic products benefit human health and environmental quality, has released the first official estimate of the health benefits of converting existing farming and importing practices exclusively to organic. By converting the near eight million acres of conventional farm land to organic and buying imported produce that is only organic, the Organic Center suggests that America could decrease the harmful risks of current pesticides by 97 percent. These estimates are based on residual pesticide data supplied by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency. Dr. Charles Benbrook, the Organic Center’s chief scientist, noted that recent USDA pesticide residue and food consumption surveys show that most people consume three to four residues daily just through fruits and vegetables. “Accounting for residues in conventional milk, tap water and other foods, the average American exposes him or herself to ten to 13 pesticide residues daily,” Dr. Benbrook added.

To read the published report by the Organic Center, visit this link.

Cranberries Offer Protection

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

This small red berry packs a big punch healthwise. Tufts University researchers find that polyphenols in the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) have important cardiovascular benefits, helping prevent oxidation of LDL (lousy) cholesterol, inhibiting platelet aggregation, and reducing blood pressure.

Flavonoids in cranberries also protect against Streptococcus mutans. And hippuric acid in cranberries can inhibit E. coli bacteria, often linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Not surprisingly, a recent review of 10 studies shows that cranberry juice is effective for UTIs, particularly among women with recurrent infections. Since UTIs are common during pregnancy, it’s a good idea to drink cranberry juice (either diluted or lightly sweetened) to prevent infections.

Lower Your Cataract Risk

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

A 10-year study of almost 40,000 women revealed that a high intake of lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin E may significantly decrease the risk of developing cataracts. Found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin can also be taken in supplemental form. Foods high in lutein include corn, kiwi, pumpkin, zucchini, spinach, yellow squash, and red seedless grapes. Zeaxanthin is found in orange juice, honeydew, and mango. Egg yolk has high concentrations of both carotenoids, and almonds and hazelnuts are particularly good sources of vitamin E.

Alcohol Might Increase Blood Pressure

Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Researchers from the University of Bristol (England) have released results of a study intended to test the effects of alcohol consumption on blood pressure. It was concluded that drinking alcohol may actually increase blood pressure more than previously thought. By studying genetic qualities that allow individuals to consume more alcohol and not feel sick, researchers evaluated several case studies of drinkers with and without the "drinking ability" gene and compared this to their level of hypertension and blood pressure. The result revealed that even with moderate drinkers, blood pressure and risk of hypertension was elevated at a higher rate than what was previously found. High blood pressure (also called hypertension) can lead to heart attack and stroke. More testing is required to further prove this study's findings.

Flooding Hurts Farmers

Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

A recent report from the Wisconsin Organic Advisory Council cited massive monetary loss for organic and conventional farmers as a result of widespread flooding in August 2007. In Wisconsin alone, over 400 vegetable farmers across 14 counties suffered severe setbacks from heavy rains and flooding, all at the estimated cost of over $15 million in losses and damages. August is a peak time for high income crops such as tomatoes and peppers. The findings of the report also exposed the lack of comprehensive crop insurance for fresh market farmers which left most with limited aid afterward. The report also called for increased risk management education for farmers and produce handlers to deal with planning for natural disasters as well as handling crops and goods that have been exposed to such disasters. As spring rains and flooding approach, the need for proactive measures to manage the impact of natural disasters on fresh market farms is as important as ever.

March Brings Maple Sugaring

Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Now that March has landed, maple sugaring will be starting up right behind it. March is the perfect time of the season for harvesting the sap from maple trees to refine into a variety of maple products, including the ever-popular maple syrup. As the spring air begins to arrive and the snow begins to retract, maple trees awaken and their sap begins to flow inside. Manufacturers and regular folk alike tap the trees and take advantage of the cold nights and warm, sunny days to collect optimum sap to boil down to maple syrup. The syrup can be further boiled down to make maple sugar, which can be used in cooking or candy-making. The reason pure maple syrup is so expensive? It takes 30-50 gallons of raw maple sap to ultimately make one gallon of maple syrup. Each large maple-sugar tree can produce about 30 gallons of sap per year, making its golden treasure a hot commodity enjoyed on pancakes, in baking, and even poured directly on snow. But once the buds come out on the trees, the sugaring season is over. So be sure to visit a local sugar shack when you see the steam rising from its roof before they close up for the long off season.

Is Your Child a Picky Eater?

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST
If so, it could be all your fault. Studies have revealed that food preferences, especially prevalent in children, primarily come from two sources: genetics and environment. Researchers in England studied the food preference differences between groups of identical twins and groups of fraternal twins and found that identical twins overwhelmingly possessed the same food preferences while fraternal twins possessed a high level of unique tastes. Researchers concluded that genetics have more of play in food aversions than previously thought. It was determined that 78% of food aversions can be linked to inherited tastes from parents, meaning if a parent holds a taste aversion to sour foods, the offspring is most likely to carry the same reaction. 22% of food aversions were factored to be influenced by environment, specifically by the actions of parents not exposing a child to specific foods or tastes based on observations or assumptions of their child's likes or dislikes.

Specialists fear that nurturing a child's dislikes for certain foods or tastes (whether genetic or environmental) could lead to deprivation of needed and balanced nutrients. They recommend exposing your child to new tastes even if they (or you) initially express a negative reaction.

Flu Shot Revamping?

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST
The Center for Disease Control has announced that the current flu vaccine protects against only 40% of flu viruses faced by Americans this year. The FDA is calling for a revision in the strategy of developing the three primary strains for next winter. Possible options would be combining 4 to 5 strains into one single vaccine. Although plausible and potentially effective, such a shot would come with extra concern. Adding multiple strains to one vaccine would require more carrying proteins resulting in a larger shot that could ultimately influence those who get the vaccine: a larger shot could hurt more or may need to be administered in multiple injections. Resulting adverse side effects could occur with potential for developing antibodies for unnecessary strains while not producing enough for more substantial strains. Pharmaceutical companies who develop the vaccines would also come under pressure to produce enough of the larger, more complicated injections. With recent flu vaccine shortages, the industry would be under great scrutiny to mass produce enough to meet national need. Further, with the added research and production costs, the vaccines would surely cost more than they do now, potentially discouraging many from partaking in the preventative measure. Needless to say, more research, planning, and testing is needed by all involved to develop a better flu vaccine that can serve the American public for the future.