October 18, 2015 Beware of Available Nutrition Information A research article recently published by the American Dietetic Association has piqued the interest of nutrition and health professionals. The research evaluated the accuracy of reported nutrition values on frozen meals and restaurant foods. It found the analyzed restaurant foods (both fast food and sit-down), contained an average of 18 percent more calories than their stated values, while the frozen meals evaluated were an average 8 percent higher. Free (as in no additional cost with the purchase of an entree) side dishes more than doubled the stated calories for a meal when combined with the entrees they accompanied.
October 18, 2015 Detox Diets I would guess many dietitians don't support the use of detoxification diets simply because in most cases they're nutritionally inadequate. Lasting anywhere from 24 hours to two weeks, these diets often cut out entire food groups in an effort to cleanse the body of harmful toxins that build up from foods we eat. Most detox or cleanse diets have rules that include eating mostly fruits and vegetables and increasing water intake with the hope of increasing elimination and purifying the body. It's like Drano for your digestive system. So what - if any- truth is behind them?
October 18, 2015 Achieving Healthy Weights for Kids An article by the American Dietetic Association reports that there is substantial science supporting kids drinking flavored milk. Simply put, it's better for them to drink chocolate milk than drink no milk at all. Researchers have not found flavored milk drinkers to have higher rates of obesity than non-milk drinkers or even higher energy intakes. This reminded me to do a little refresher on helping your children achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
October 18, 2015 Nutrient Loss During Cooking There is some misinformation out there about the benefits of eating everything raw. Specifically, raw vegetables are often credited for providing the most nutritional bang for your buck. This is only partially true. While some nutrients get lost in cooking, others rely on cooking to perform their best. Not only are certain nutrients released in higher temperatures, but cooking can also make certain nutrients more digestible. Better digestion yields better absorption.
October 18, 2015 Allergy Alert: Fight The Bite! Well, how do we avoid the itch and discomfort from insect and mosquito bites? In my household I rarely get bitten however with my wife it's a different story.She will get covered with bites pretty quickly.Now why is that? Some research indicates the "estrogen" content of women's skin may provide a source of insect attraction. Some researchers also feel that scented products found in perfume and skin and hair care products that may attract those pesky insects.
October 18, 2015 Allergy Alert: Tired, Cranky Kids? Allergies Could Be To Blame! [caption id="attachment_828" align="alignleft" width="90" caption="Dr. Bassett"][/caption]
October 18, 2015 Infant Formula 101 First and foremost, as a registered dietitian and mother of three, I support breastfeeding as the ideal source of nutrition for infants. In my practice, I recommend for new mothers to breastfeed exclusively for at least 6 months and to continue breastfeeding with complementary solids until 1 year of age. Research supports the long list of breastfeeding benefits to Mom and baby. Simply put, human milk cannot be duplicated. It is rich in nutrients, easily digestible, full of antibodies and growth factors, and best of all, it's free!
October 18, 2015 Tanya's Tasty Tips: Meal Makeover (Grilled Veal Parmesan) I love veal parmesan, but the customary recipe calls for breading and fried cutlets-a no-no if you're trying to eat healthy. This grilled version offers the same flavors without the extra fat and calories. You save 500 calories and 14 grams of fat!
October 18, 2015 Tanya's Tasty Tips: Meal Makeover (Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce) I love cheesecake, but at more than 500 calories a slice, it's an infrequent indulgence. This recipe will satisfy your craving for the creamy taste of cheesecake- at a fraction of the fat and calories! Plus with the addition of berries it gives you an extra boost of fiber. Place these in large goblets and serve as a delectable dessert to your guests.