Nutrition Archive

Articles

Using weight loss or sports supplements? Exercise caution

Magical claims are made in ads for dietary supplements marketed to enhance well-being and solve health problems. But the reality is that most do little or nothing to improve your health, and in some cases weight loss or sports supplements might actually harm you.

By the way, doctor: Is spirulina good for you?

I read that spirulina is the next wonder vitamin. What can you tell me about it?

Potassium and sodium out of balance

The body needs the combination of potassium and sodium to produce energy and regulate kidney function, but most people get far too much sodium and not enough potassium.

Get savvy about sauces

Many commercial sauces and dressings contain a lot of sodium, added sugars, and saturated fats. For example, two tablespoons of an average supermarket barbeque sauce has more sugar than a glazed donut. But there are a number of healthier toppings that can be used on salads, fish, chicken, and pasta, such as homemade fruit salsa, pesto sauce, and olive oil and vinegar–based dressing.

Five a day for better health

Eating two fruits and five veggies a day may lead to a longer life, according to a recent study.

The numbers add up for eating your five-a-day of fruits and vegetables

Nutritional guidelines continue to advocate eating five daily servings of fruits and vegetables—the so-called five-a-day. New research found that eating more than this amount does not offer extra benefits, and that a ratio of two servings of fruit and three of vegetables might offer the most health benefits.

Coming out of COVID

As Americans begin to slowly move out of the COVID-19 pandemic, they may face old and new challenges. People should use this transition period to prepare mentally and emotionally for a post-COVID world. Steps include planning how to safely return to social gathering, restarting health habits that have fallen away, and addressing mental health issues.

Facts about fiber

Fiber improves digestion and may help lower a person’s risk for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. But according to the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most people meet only half their daily fiber needs. The main reason is not following a basic healthy diet with foods high in fiber. Making small changes in dietary habits and adopting new fiber-rich foods can help people reach their quota.

Fruit of the month: Berries

Strawberries and blueberries are rich in beneficial plant compounds known as anthocyanins, which give berries their vibrant red, blue, and purple hues. Several studies have linked diets with anthocyanin-rich foods to better heart health.

A longevity formula: Three vegetables plus two fruits a day

Eating two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables daily is linked to a lower risk of dying of cardiovascular disease. The healthiest choices include leafy greens, carrots, berries, and citrus fruits.

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