Q: Hearing alot about ACAI, is it really beneficial? What should we look for or look out for when buying products with ACAI?
A: These berries contain anthocyanins and flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that help the body defend itself against stress and may play a role in the body's cell protection system. Since supplements are not regulated by the FDA. I would recommend talking with your doctor or pharmacist for help.
Q: Is using Splenda instead of Sugar(white) healthy or healthier ?
A: A teaspoon of sugar is about 4 grams. For perspective, consider that one 12-ounce can of a sweetened cola contains 8 teaspoons of added sugar, or about 130 calories. If you're trying to lose weight or prevent weight gain, products sweetened with artificial sweeteners, rather than with higher-calorie table sugar, may be an option.
Q: I am diabetic type 2 hispanic, i have read that every thing has sugar when you eat bread can't have beans and so on...where can I find a 30 day menu from morning to night with the right foods and portions( mexican style)
A: Diabetes.org is a great site with lots of information that will help provide the right information on managing your eating plan. In addition, there are great recipes pertaining to the Latin culture. You can also check out eating well.com.
Q: Is there really a "zero calorie" food?
A: Besides chemically altered foods that are calorie-free such as sugar substitutes, all real foods contain calories. There are some foods, such as celery that burn off more calories during digestion than they contain. Sometimes these can be marketed as zero-calorie foods.
Q: I put a lot of stuff in my salad, so how do you know if it's still good for me?
A: For a healthier salad, start by choosing dark leafy greens instead of iceberg lettuce and vegetables of various colors, such as red pepper, yellow squash and green zucchini. Build lean proteins into your salad, by adding turkey, chicken, low-fat cheese or beans; and choose tuna fish or seafood salad without the mayo. Try to use only 1 tablespoon of dressing and avoid creamy ones if you can.
Q: I love fish and seafood and my question is when your trying to watch your fat intake and chloresterol which do you consider first the fat or the chloresterol. Thank-you
A: Saturated fat and cholesterol in the food you eat make your blood cholesterol levels go up. Saturated fat is the main culprit, but cholesterol in foods also matters. Reducing the amount of both in your diet will help lower blood cholesterol levels.
Q: How would organically raised foods contain carcinogens?
A: Organic produce does contain some naturally occurring pesticides. However, despite that, the Environmental Working Group has stated that organic produce can decrease the amount of toxins you consume by about 80%. For additional information, go to the United States Department of Agriculture website.
Q: My LDL is high,(134) do you know of any special veggies that will bring it down. I know I have to cut out fats, cheese etc.
A: Try to eat at least 5 servings of vegetables per day and keep them colorful. All vegetables have benefits to our health and are full of fiber to help with lowering cholesterol levels.
Q: i am looking for a low cal veggie lazania
A: Check out the Food Network's Healthy Eating tab or eatingwell.com.
Q: Are there any cheeses that are healthier for you than others?
A: Cheese is an excellent source of protein. It is also high in calcium and Vitamin D but may be high in saturated fat. Try choosing cheeses that are part skim, low fat or fat free.
Q: I really don't understand what "crude fat" means. My Vet told me my dog had suffered from Pancreitis, he said no treats absolutely with ANY FAT IN THEM. Well, not only is the doggie treats impossible to find with no fat,but people fat is harder.
A: Crude fat by definition appears to be a combination of various fats composed into a product, in this case, the form of a dog treat. In terms of pancreatitis, it is important to avoid excessive fat intake because of the increased risks of gallstones or an infected pancrease. Therefore, choosing lean protein sources, such as fish, chicken, egg whites, etc. may be more appropriate. You may want to ask your veterinarian for additional help if you are finding it challenging to provide food for your dog.
Q: What kind of foods are best, when trying to get stomach smaller? I walk 3 miles a day and am not overweight and 62 yrs. young!!
A: In terms of decreasing the size of your stomach, cardio exercises, weight-bearing activities, and diet rich in foods that are higher in protein, such as lean meats and low-fat dairy, might be best. It is often a combination of many things. If you feel that your weight is appropriate, then focusing on some core exercises for your stomach area might be helpful in building muscle and burning fat. Check out ACEfitness.org for some core exercises that might be helpful.
Q: I have a kidney disease. I was told by my nephrologist that a change in diet wouldn't be helpful. Is that true?
A: Yes. Diet is helpful in the management of some kidney diseases. There are various stages of kidney disease, and treatment is generally based on the stage that you are at. Some important things to consider in your diet are determining the appropriate amount of calories to consume (especially protein) and adequate nutrients, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and fluids. You may want to talk with a registered dietitian for additional diet guidance, or check out the National Kidney Center website.
Q: WHY IS SOY BAD FOR A BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR?
A: Some studies have suggested that estrogen, which is found naturally in soy, can promote the development, growth, and spread of breast cancer. However, more recent studies have suggested that soy is actually safe and beneficial for breast cancer survivors. Breast Cancer.org provides more detailed explanations more about the data.
Q: My husband eats white rise or wheat noodle every meal, how can I let him to change?
A: Maybe ask him first if he is ready to change. Once you have that figured out, explain the benefits of variety.
Q: What is the best foods to eat to regain weight that I lost from being ill ? I need to regain at lest 18-20lbs. I am also on a restricted diet for high blood pressure.
A: Try having ½--1cup of nuts every day. This may add an additional 500-800 calories to your daily diet.
Q: i am diabetic i love fruits and vegetables i know all fruit is not good for diabetic what fruits can i eat lots of and it wont affect my blood sugar as well as vegetables
A: Which fruits and vegetables you can eat depends on how your body reacts to them. Fruits and vegetables have different glycemic indexes, which can affect an individual’s blood sugar. Try eating a fruit and vegetable, and then test your blood sugar afterward to see how your body may be affected by it. All fruits and vegetables have benefits; therefore eating a variety is best.
Q: What foods can I eat to gain weight without elevating my cholesterol. Thanks
A: I think the best way to tackle this question is to think of all the foods you can eat that will not elevate your cholesterol. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fat, such as butter, full-fat dairy products and meats with visible fat. Also be aware of foods that have hidden trans fats, called partially hydrogenated oils. For gaining weight, eat a variety of foods, and if you want to eat fats since they are higher in calories, choose fats that come from nuts, seeds, avocados or fish oils.
Q: I have some low fat cookbooks, but they all use processed foods, like fat free cream of something soup. I don't usually cook with cream or milk, so are those foods still more healthy than just having pan 'fried' (Pam) meat with vegetables and rice or past
A: Eat real food! Eat appropriate portions of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, and nuts and seeds throughout the day. If you choose processed foods once in a while, I think that is fine but do not think they’re a healthier option than real food.
Q: I have acid reflux and really don't know what to eat. I cannot drink any juices, greasy foods or etc. I was just wondering do you have a special diet for people who have acid reflux but still can eat some bad foods. I love my junk food. lol
A: When I talk with people who suffer from acid reflux, my advice is to avoid high-fat foods, such as fried foods and fatty meats, as well as spicy foods, mint, alcoholic beverages and caffeine-containing beverages and foods. I also recommend smaller, more frequent meals and having make your last meal at least 3 hours before bedtime. Know your limits and which of these foods can trigger your heart-burn, and try various cooking techniques.
Q: i had a friend that wants to find a way to make chicken alfrado healthier for her kids. some suggestion i had was using like 2% or tofu to make sauce and maybe use soba noodles but could you give me anymore advice.
A: Some other great suggestions would be to try adding plain Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese.
Q: I have read the sugars in general are not good for you including the natural sugar in fruit. is this true
A: Moderation is key, experts say. For example, the AHA statement recommends that women limit themselves to about 6 teaspoons of sugar a day, or about 100 calories. Men should aim for about 9 teaspoons a day, or about 150 calories.
Q: What is a good method to detox the body?
A: Eat real foods, meaning think local, think fresh and think in season. Try to avoid foods with preservatives and added sugars. Make sure to drink water and stay hydrated and try various types of teas (freshly brewed). Tea is a very rich source of a specific kind of antioxidant called flavonoids. These types of antioxidants may have a detoxifying effect.
Q: What does a good source mean?
A: "Good Source," "Contains," or "Provides" 10%-19% of the daily value - These terms may be used on meals or main dishes to indicate that the product contains a food that meets the definition but may not be used to describe the meal.
Q: Is white sugar bad for bad?
A: White sugar is pure sucrose produced from either sugar-cane or sugar beets; therefore it does not necessarily mean it is worse for you than other sugars. Bottom line: The World Health Organization recommends that you limit your intake of added sugars to no more than 10% of your calories. If you’re an average-sized adult, ten percent of your calories is around 50 grams of sugar, or the equivalent of 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Q: Name the primary Iron rich foods/contents...
A: There are two forms of dietary iron: heme and nonheme. Heme iron is derived from hemoglobin. It is found in animal foods, such as red meats, fish and poultry. Your body absorbs the most iron from heme sources.
Q: What can I eat if I am type 2 diabetic and I have a cholesterol problem when I eat at the buffets?
A: Being a diabetic, it is a good practice to test your blood sugar regularly, especially to see how foods may affect it. With saying that, while eating specifically at buffets, recognize which foods impact your blood sugar most. Avoiding excessive carbohydrates such as rice, pasta and potatoes can help in addition to smaller portions or avoiding desserts. For cholesterol issues, it is always good to try and limit your consumption of red meat, full-fat dairy such as cheese and cream-based soups and sauces and baked goods such as cookies and cakes, since they tend to be high in saturated and/or trans fats.
Q: What is the benefit of taking Vitamin B Complex for a Diabetic person?
A: Thiamine, riboflavin, niacin/niacin amide, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid and pantothenic acid, all of these B Vitamins make up B-complex vitamins, and some research studies suggest that these vitamins can help in the prevention of neuropathy in diabetes
Q: What food is good for constipation?
A: The Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board recommends that women consume 91 ounces of water each day from beverages and foods; men need to consume 125 ounces daily. Remember, this recommendation includes fluids in the foods you eat, variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in addition to proper hydration is best.
Q: Are sugar substitutes a healthier option than regular sugar?
A: A teaspoon of sugar is about 4 grams. For perspective, consider that one 12-ounce can of a sweetened cola contains 8 teaspoons of added sugar, or about 130 calories. If you're trying to lose weight or prevent weight gain, products sweetened with artificial sweeteners rather than with higher calorie table sugar may be an option.
Q: What natural food or drink can I eat or drink to get energy? Are the 5-hour energy drinks good for you?
A: Smart carbohydrates such as whole grains can help to provide some energy and is our body's preferred source of fuel. Nuts, which are high in protein and magnesium, can help support energy as well. Lean proteins such as chicken or turkey are high in the amino acid Tyrosine, which is know, to boost levels of dopamine and norepinephire, which are brain chemicals, that make you feel more focused.
Q: Recently I have been substituting meat products for soy products I would like to know why soy and soy-based products are considered by many to be unhealthy.
A: There appears to be many mixed reviews about the benefits of soy. In July 2011, The Journal of Menopause published a study that reviewed other studies of soy and its findings. Overall, the review supported the benefits of a variety of foods for health, which includes soy, but did not support the idea that soy may help in lowering some cancer risk, relieving hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, and possibly improving mental health.
Q: What is the healthiest type of oil to use in baking?
A: Most vegetable oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which the body makes enough of. Therefore, it is wiser to use oils that contain omega-3 fatty acids, which our bodies do not create. These oils are canola and olive oil. I think canola oil is best because it tends to be neutral in taste vs. olive oil.
Q: What are the healthy grains and how much should I have a day? How can I tell the difference when I buy at the grocery store? What percentage on my plate would a healthy grain be? For example, if I had a 4-oz serving of lean meat or fish?
A: The healthiest types of grains to consume are whole grains, which come from food sources such as brown rice, whole wheat products, buckwheat and popcorn, to name a few. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that at least half of all the grains you eat are whole grains. When reading labels, look for ingredients that state "whole" vs. refined or enriched.
Q: Since carbohydrates turn to sugar, which turns to fat, should I not eat fruit because it has a lot of sugar in it?
A: Moderation and variety is best and fruit is a good choice for part of your total carbohydrate intake per day.
Q: I have a terrible sweet tooth. How can I combat it? I crave something sweet after every meal (and in between meals)...even after breakfast.
A: Try having fruit in between meals or give in a little, meaning it is OK to have a little something sweet once in a while, such as a small cookie or snack-size candy bar. Try not to skip meals and include foods with variety and different tastes and textures to help stimulate your taste buds.
Q: Are organic foods more nutritious than nonorganic foods?
A: Organic foods contain the same nutrients as nonorganic foods and in the same amounts. The only advantage of organic foods is that they contain little or no pesticides or herbicides. Foods may contain carcinogens whether grown organically or not.
Q: Is white sugar bad for you?
A: White table sugar is no better or worse for you than any other. Too much sugar of any kind can be bad for your health, however, because sugar contains calories (which provide energy) but no vitamins, minerals or other nutrients. Sugar is especially bad for the teeth.
Q: How do I order healthier when I eat out?
A: Look for entrees on the menu that are broiled, grilled, poached, steamed, roasted or baked, and avoid foods described as fried, crisp, sauteed, creamy, creamed, au gratin, escalloped or breaded.
Q: Do you have any tips for healthy lunches?
A: Plan the week's lunches in advance to make shopping easier. Make a list, and stick to it. Don't give in to the temptation to buy extra sweets, junk food or fatty deli meats.
Q: Does "sodium-free" mean it's totally sodium free?
A: If a serving contains less than 5 mg of sodium, it can be called, sodium-free.
Q: What does a "good source" mean?
A: If a serving contains 10 to 19 percent of the daily value for a given nutrient, it can be considered a good source.
Q: Buffets are my weakness. Any suggestions?
A: Fill your plate with plain vegetable side dishes before you go for the meat. Look for grilled, broiled or flame-cooked chicken, fish and lean meats and avoid anything breaded, batter-dipped or fried.
Q: Are foods that are high in fiber are also high in calories?
A: High-fiber foods — whole grains, legumes (beans, peas and lentils) and fresh fruits and vegetables — are actually lower in calories than most other foods because they contain practically no fat. It's only when they're mixed with fats and other foods or eaten in large quantities that high-fiber foods provide large amounts of calories.
Q: Do vitamins provide energy?
A: Only calories from carbohydrates, protein and fat provide energy. Some vitamins are essential to use the energy present in the foods we absorb, but consuming an excess of them will not make more energy than what is in the food.
Q: Does fasting eliminates toxins from the body?
A: While fasting for a day or two probably won't do any harm, and might be psychologically useful in slowing down bad eating habits, there's no evidence that it actually "cleans out" the body by eliminating toxic waste. Basically, your digestive system needs time off from doing its job no more than your heart needs a rest.