Q: What are the nutritional benefits derived from eating fish? A: Beyond adding variety to the normal protein options of chicken, pork, or red meat, fish is a great alternative that provides the additional benefits of being low in saturated fats, lower in calories, and an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Saturated fats found [...]
Q: Does fasting result in weight loss? A: Fasting for weight loss will lead to a short term reduction in weight. However, the long term health negatives greatly outweigh the short term benefits. The negatives include: The initial weight loss is due to a loss of water and not a reduction in body fat. Fasting [...]
Q: A recent study suggested the lack of exercise as the largest contributor to the obesity epidemic and that diet, specifically consumption of soda and other sugary drinks, had minimal impact on obesity. Are sugary drinks getting a bad rap? A: A recent study did suggest that diets high in sugar are not to blame [...]
Q: Why are hot, spicy vegetables a healthy and nutritious choice? A: People that like to spice up their meals with hot, spicy vegetables are generally adding the heat to enhance flavor, but studies have also found these vegetables to have many health benefits: Hot peppers contain a flavorless and odorless antioxidant called capsaicin. Antioxidants [...]
Q: It is grilling season. Is there anything I can do to reduce the harmful carcinogens that form while using this cooking method? A: Grilling is a great low fat cooking method. However, cooking any animal protein at high temperatures leads to the formation of a chemical called Heterocyclic Amines (HCAs). HCAs form when amino [...]
Q: I recently heard of a study that linked high potato consumption to higher rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Are potatoes bad for you? A: The Harvard School of Public Health did release a study in 2014 that reported the above results and painted a bleak picture for potatoes. However, the study grouped [...]
Q: What is the optimal temperature for sleeping? Does sleeping in cooler temperatures impact metabolism? A: Normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. During the day, the body attempts to maintain this temperature. As the body prepares for sleep, there is a mild drop in normal body temperature to help induce sleep and help keep [...]
Q: Which is better: Fresh, frozen or canned fruits and vegetables? A: Research has found little difference in the nutritional value of fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables. Most frozen or canned produce is processed and packaged within hours of being harvested. The quick turnaround allows the produce to maintain most of its nutritional [...]
Q: What is the optimal temperature for sleeping? Does sleeping in cooler temperatures impact metabolism? A: Normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees. During the day, the body attempts to maintain this temperature. As the body prepares for sleep, there is a mild drop in normal body temperature to help induce sleep and help keep us [...]
Q: Should I discard athletic shoes based on volume of use or time of purchase? A: Reviewing the recommendations of athletic shoe manufactures and walking/running enthusiast websites, the general recommendation is to replace your athletic shoes every 500 miles. The average U.S. adult takes about 5,900 steps daily (2.95 miles). If athletic shoes were worn [...]