By Diane Lofshult
How many times have you found yourself driving home from work with no idea what to make for dinner—or not even a clue as to what’s in the fridge? These are the tim...
By Diane Lofshult
Have you ever tried to stretch a meal when guests arrive unexpectedly at dinnertime? According to a book published by Better Homes and Gardens magazine, anyone can whip up a m...
By Diane Lofshult
Although some skin conditions are best treated by a dermatologist, you can enhance the appearance of your skin by improving the content of your diet. According to the editors ...
By Diane Lofshult
People who suffer from conditions such as celiac disease, lactose intolerance, food allergies, diabetes and other gastrointestinal disorders are often required to be on a rest...
By Diane Lofshult
Coming to your supermarket this summer is a bevy of citrus fruits that should sweeten and surprise your palate. Here’s a look at five rising stars in the citrus family:
...
By Diane Lofshult
Little is known about the effectiveness of behavioral strategies to prevent long-term weight gain in female adolescents and young adults. That’s why researchers set out ...
By Diane Lofshult
What could be more refreshing on a sultry summer day than a frozen, no-fat, low-calorie ice treat made from healthy green tea and ginger? Finish this delightful desser...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that there are more than 60 types of basil, all members of the mint family? This fresh herb is a powerhouse of flavor that can be used in myriad ethnic cooking st...
By Diane Lofshult
Marketing experts who studied current food trends among children say that “natural” foods are “here to stay” and that kids today have become more indep...
By Diane Lofshult
Adding to the literature on the potential health benefits of alcohol is a new study suggesting that drinking may improve insulin sensitivity. While this was a small-an...
By Diane Lofshult
If frozen diet dinners tasted better, would more people avail themselves of these products? According to the editors at Consumer Reports, food manufacturers have made grea...
By Diane Lofshult
Who wants to cook on a sultry summer night? For those of you who did not raise your hands, here is a quick salad that will draw applause from vegans and meat eaters alik...
By Diane Lofshult
Experts agree that recording what you eat each day makes people more aware of their calorie intake, which in turn can help expedite and even maintain weight loss. Advise your ...
By Diane Lofshult
How many times have you come home from the market and gone
to put away a new can of pinto beans, only to realize you already had three cans lurking in the farthest regions o...
By Diane Lofshult
A recent study by Consumer Reports found traces of bacteria in packages of salad greens, even in bags that claim to be “prewashed.” While these bacteria traces...
By Diane Lofshult
Juicy melons are synonymous with the start of summer. They travel well to picnics, are beloved by children and adults alike and are the perfect solution for those with a sweet...
By Diane Lofshult
With the steadily rising cost of a college education, who doesn’t want their child to perform optimally in school? Can you help your kids land a full 4-year scholars...
By Diane Lofshult
While it may be tempting to shuck corn on the cob while still in the grocery store, doing so may be hazardous to this veggie’s nutrient content. Better to buy and store ...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the American Dietetic Association (ADA), about one-third of Americans currently take some kind of dietary supplements, especially nutrient supplements, such a...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a quick salad with different flavors that will explode in your mouth:
the sweetness of the watermelon is a perfect balance for the sharpness of
the pickled on...
By Diane Lofshult
answer: Our bodies definitely pay the price after drinking too much alcohol, and the sobering fact is that there is no real cur...
By Diane Lofshult
It isn’t always easy to find fresh blueberries when you need them without paying a princely sum. But don’t worry: frozen blueberries are actually more nourishing t...
By Diane Lofshult
Most Americans get far too much salt in their daily diet, thanks to our nation’s high consumption of processed foods. While no one wants to eat bland food, there are way...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the September/October issue of Nutrition Today, data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III reveal that individuals get approximately 19% o...
By Diane Lofshult
Next month is the start of cherry season, which extends to August. This stone fruit, a relative of apricots, peaches and plums, comes in two species: sweet cherries and sour (...
By Diane Lofshult
According to a study published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine (November 2009), physical education (PE) classes can make a real difference in the weigh...
By Diane Lofshult
It seems that more kids are being diagnosed with allergies these days, and this may be the result of how old the children were when they were introduced to solid foods, accord...
By Diane Lofshult
People who eat greedily and quickly should slow down if they want to keep off the pounds, says a study published in the online version of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the results of a recent study conducted by the American Dietetic Association (ADA), consumers are hungry for accurate nutrition information. The ADA researchers d...
By Diane Lofshult
Looks like healthy meals make for happy lives. This adage appears to be in keeping with the findings of a study published in the November 2009 issue of The British Journal of ...
By Diane Lofshult
This spicy blend of crisp apples, brown rice, tomatoes, curry and ginger will make your
family view lentils in a new light. Plus, this dish can be served as a hearty main di...
By Diane Lofshult
For those without a self-cleaning oven, this odious chore usually requires nasty and toxic sprays that should only be handled by a fully outfitted HAZMAT squad. But there is a...
By Diane Lofshult
A nifty website now allows users to plug in their ZIP code or city and—presto—find
real-time sources of locally grown healthy foods at farmers’
markets. ...
By Diane Lofshult
Answer: The good news is that tea is steeped in health benefits. The bad news is that tea contains compounds called tannins that can bind to iron in the body and inhibit absor...
By Diane Lofshult
Looks like a spot of tea may be a way to lower blood pressure. A recent study out of Tufts University found that people were able to lower their systolic pressure by drinking ...
By Diane Lofshult
One way to save money in hard times is to
repurpose what you already have on hand. In your home, this can mean finding dual purposes for pantry staples; for example,...
By Diane Lofshult
Running late in the mornings shouldn’t mean your kids have to skip breakfast. Children can eat on the run and still get a nutritious boost to their day with their very o...
By Diane Lofshult
Why can some teens lose weight and keep it off, while
others try and try again, to no avail? According to a recent study, teenagers who do lose weight appear to share certai...
By Diane Lofshult
Like its fancy cousin the truffle, the morel is a unique variety of mushroom found in woodlands. These spongy mushrooms have a distinctive honeycomb texture and a nutty, earth...
By Diane Lofshult
Despite questionable anecdotal evidence
espoused by celebrities like Jenny McCarthy,
a panel of experts led by a Harvard Medical School researcher has determined that spec...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the December 2009 issue of the Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter, the Agricultural Research Service,
a research arm of the U.S. Department of Agric...
By Diane Lofshult
Switching over to low-sodium food products may do more than simply lower your blood pressure: it may also benefit bone health by reducing calcium loss, according to findings p...
By Diane Lofshult
For years, government experts have been advising consumers to read food labels in order to track and curb their calorie intake. Now a new study
conducted by Tufts University...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s the day before the big race, and it’s time to carbo-load. This simple pasta dish is quick
to prepare and easy to digest, two features that can loom large on...
By Diane Lofshult
George H.W. Bush wasn’t the only one who hated broccoli. According to the findings of a 2007 survey reported in The Journal of Psychology, broccoli ranks high in foods d...
By Diane Lofshult
Nutrition experts often point to today’s supersized plates and glasses as one cause of America’s rising obesity rates. Now
researchers are pointing to another cu...
By Diane Lofshult
Put down your kitchen knife: researchers have found that carrots cooked whole contain 25% more of a potential cancer-fighting compound than those cooked after being sliced or ...
By Diane Lofshult
Try fighting the seasonal flu with food this year. Here’s a look at some foods that are rich in antioxidants, which help fortify the immune system:
By Diane Lofshult
Want to save money while sitting at your computer? Click and print out cost-cutting Groupons, online coupons offered daily from a group collective that uses the power of group...
By Diane Lofshult
They may have placed number 8 on the list of most-hated foods (see “Top 10 Most-Hated Foods”), but Brussels sprouts really get
a bum rap. That’s probably b...
By Diane Lofshult
Childhood obesity in America is higher among ethnic minorities. One reason may be their limited access to affordable, healthy food options, according to researchers who report...
By Diane Lofshult
Increased consumption of sweetened beverages has been linked to higher energy intake and weight gain in children. Now a new study
has shown that a girl’s beverage inta...
By Diane Lofshult
Eating a high-protein diet may make the brain lighter, which can ultimately make you more vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease (AD), according to a
recent animal study.
By Diane Lofshult
People who follow a conventional Mediterranean diet have reason to cheer: they are less likely to develop clinical depression, according to a report in
the October issue of ...
By Diane Lofshult
According to estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA),
organic food sales in America have
quadrupled since 1997, growing like weeds from $3.6 billion to $2...
By Diane Lofshult
Soup can be a great comfort when the wind is howling outside your door. But
commercially made soups are often high in salt and highly processed. Here is a soup
that is hea...
By Diane Lofshult
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and sweethearts everywhere will be flocking to their favorite restaurants for a night of romance and risotto. You may
be cra...
By Diane Lofshult
The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) recently issued a list of the top 10 riskiest foods regulated by the FDA, based on the number of related outbreaks of food...
By Diane Lofshult
Answer: The quick answer is to “starve a fever, feed a cold.” But don’t take this old adage too much to heart, because starving yourself is...
By Diane Lofshult
Cauliflower is often overshadowed by its more flashy and colorful cousin broccoli. Although broccoli is slightly higher in nutrient content, the lowly cauliflower does supply ...
By Diane Lofshult
Use these helpful hints to stretch your food budget
in this down economy:
Take to the Internet Highway. Click on websites
such as www.tipnut.com for low-cost recipes or e...
By Diane Lofshult
Although exotic fruits have long been seen in specialty supermarkets and health food stores, a growing number of mainstream markets are now offering an array of unfamiliar pro...
By Diane Lofshult
We all know that parents and other role models, such as teachers, can influence a child’s lifestyle and food choices. Until recently little was known about the dietary h...
By Diane Lofshult
According to a recent study published online by the journal Pediatrics, at least 1 in 5 kids in America under the age of 11 doesn’t get enough daily vitamin D, which can...
By Diane Lofshult
A recent study conducted in the Canadian provinces found that adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa may suffer from lifelong brain damage and loss of cognitive function&mdash...
By Diane Lofshult
Men who want to lower their risk of developing hypertension may want to up their daily intake of whole-grain products, according to a study in the September 2009 issue of The ...
By Diane Lofshult
In late October, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a strong warning that the agency was considering taking regulatory action against food manufacturers that m...
By Diane Lofshult
Where you live may actually contribute to your risk of someday developing type 2 diabetes, says a study published in the October 12, 2009,
issue of the Archives of Internal ...
By Diane Lofshult
Baby, it’s cold outside. This hearty but healthy chili will warm your heart
and your senses. Plus, it’s fast and easy to prepare, even after a hard day at work.
...
By Diane Lofshult
Clients always want to know how many
calories they are burning while exercising. Now they can use their smart phone or PDA to count calories instantly while jogging along a ...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s January, and clients everywhere are coming out of the woodwork looking for that magic bullet to get in shape. Armed with New Year’s resolutions and good inten...
By Diane Lofshult
Veterinarians across the country are reporting an increase
in the number of dogs poisoned by a common ingredient used
in sugar-free products. The chemical xylitol is used ...
By Diane Lofshult
Fresh ginger is a tasty and healthy addition to all kinds of meals and beverages. But those knobby roots can quickly
dry up, which can be frustrating—not too mention a...
By Diane Lofshult
These days, everyone is trying to find ways to cut corners in the household budget. One place to do that is in the kitchen. Here are some cheap tricks to try that will lower c...
By Diane Lofshult
By now, even kids know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. A new study provides yet another ringing endorsement for starting the day with that old breakfast ...
By Diane Lofshult
By some estimates, dates may be the oldest tree crop cultivated by man. For more than 5,000 years, this healthy fruit has helped sustain the diets of people living in the Midd...
By Diane Lofshult
Americans are finally beginning to understand the link between a better diet and improved health. The problem is, they often don’t know how to incorporate beneficial fun...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation recently reported that local school districts can make a significant difference by adopting policies that govern the sale o...
By Diane Lofshult
Studies conducted over the years have shown a link between moderate alcohol consumption and a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes in the general population. Up until now, howeve...
By Diane Lofshult
Despite the current lagging economy, many consumers are still willing to pay more for organic foods, believing these foods are higher in nutritional quality
than conventiona...
By Diane Lofshult
Happy holidays to all you cooks (and eaters) out there. Here is a brightly colored relish
that will brighten your festive table and act as a sweet and savory accompaniment t...
By Diane Lofshult
Does all the jargon listed on “natural” food product labels sound like Greek to you? Here is a cheat sheet for decoding some of that confusing green lingo.
Organi...
By Diane Lofshult
Nutrition experts often warn against consuming large quantities of red meat, mostly due to the associated health risks. Cooking red meat at high temperatures can lead to the f...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to amp up the nutrients and reduce the calories in your traditional mashed potato recipe? Blend in a half cup of cooked and mashed turnips, which adds only 18 calories bu...
By Diane Lofshult
Even the most avid meat eaters tend to like eggplant, owing mostly to the vegetable’s meaty, fleshy texture. The term eggplant was used to describe the first varieties ...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to save money while also saving the planet? Try composting. Not only is this technique environmentally friendly, it can also nurture your own vegetable garden.
To start ...
By Diane Lofshult
Next time your child asks for a smear of mayonnaise on his or her sandwich, pass a bottle of ketchup instead. While not a replacement for fresh fruits and veggies, a tablespoo...
By Diane Lofshult
Although it occurs in only 3% of cases, babies who are breast-fed run the risk of developing iron-deficiency anemia during their first 6 months of life. Now a study in The Ame...
By Diane Lofshult
A new nationwide survey conducted by the School Nutrition Association found that almost two out of three schools in the United States now offer vegetarian fare as part of thei...
By Diane Lofshult
Many consumers have replaced their sweetener of choice with agave nectar, which is produced from the sap derived from the agave plant. Agave nectar has become popular because ...
By Diane Lofshult
People who want to lose weight should make it a point to eat breakfast to avoid craving high-calorie foods later in the day,
say researchers who presented their findings at ...
By Diane Lofshult
Fortified foods—products that claim to confer health benefits beyond simply providing nutrients—are flying off store shelves all across the nation. According to Th...
By Diane Lofshult
Impress your family and friends with this quintessential recipe that is based on
the much-touted Mediterranean diet. Serve it with a healthy green salad and a bowl
of whol...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to curb your food cravings without sabotaging your diet? Researchers recommend lighting a peppermint candle the next time you’re overcome with the munchies. The min...
By Diane Lofshult
With all the attention paid to whole wheat and oats, barley remains the odd child of the grain family. But new research shows that regular consumption of barley can significan...
By Diane Lofshult
Nobody likes to clean out their pantry, but this month is a good time to brave the battle. All year long, common insects like flour beetles and Indian meal moths have been set...
By Diane Lofshult
Yogurt has long been consumed for its health benefits and is a diet staple enjoyed by many cultures across the globe. Now, experts say that yogurt may also reduce the risk of ...
By Diane Lofshult
The herbal supplement red yeast rice has been touted in the news
recently for its alleged ability to decrease harmful LDL cholesterol
levels. Some reports have gone so far...
By Diane Lofshult
Scientists have long known that
restricting calories can extend the life spans of primitive creatures, such as mice, worms and flies.
Now a large longitudinal stud...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to get your brood to up their fruit intake? As my mother always said, you can get more bees with honey than you can with vinegar. Plus, studies show that honey increases ...
By Diane Lofshult
Now ubiquitous at salad bars around the world, the root
vegetable called jicama was originally grown in Central America and Mexico, where it is sometimes called a Me...
By Diane Lofshult
Grilling meat can certainly enhance its taste, but it may also increase your risk of developing certain cancers. That’s because cooking beef, pork, poultry and fish at t...
By Diane Lofshult
Groceries are going, going, gone: the latest food craze to grip the nation is bidding on groceries at local auctions. As shoppers try to cut food costs, grocery auctio...
By Diane Lofshult
Mixing caffeinated drinks, like sodas or coffee, with an older class of
antidepressants can be dangerous. Ingesting caffeine while taking monoamine oxidase inhibit...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a simple and easy way to ramp up your daily supply of antioxidants: squeeze some citrus fruit juice into every cup or glass of green tea you drink. According to o...
By Diane Lofshult
Long a symbol of the dog days of summer, water-
melon may now be a precursor to summer romance. Researchers for the USDA report that certain
compounds found in watermelon c...
By Diane Lofshult
With children everywhere about to start a new school year, one company is doing its part to ensure that vending machines offer smart choices for snacks and drinks sold on camp...
By Diane Lofshult
Previous research studies have linked full-calorie, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) with greater weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Now a new study has loo...
By Diane Lofshult
Americans’ attempts to improve their health are plummeting faster than the Dow Jones Industrial Average, according to the results of a new study
published in the June ...
By Diane Lofshult
In early May, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers to immediately cease using Hydroxycut®, a popular weight loss supplement linked to serious liver dama...
By Diane Lofshult
Because pregnant women are “eating for two,” it’s easy to lose track of or
ignore weight gained during gestation. Not a good idea. For the first time
sin...
By Diane Lofshult
Two recent studies recommend that you include walnuts in your diet if you want to reduce your
risk of developing CHD or certain cancers.
The first study, which appeared in...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a quick, healthy dessert to try while the berry harvest is still in full swing this summer. Once reduced, the balsamic vinegar glaze becomes sweet and syrupy, a p...
By Diane Lofshult
All too often, we hear about the Internet’s negative influence on our kids’ mental and physical health. That’s why it is a pleasure to report on a new websit...
By Diane Lofshult
Question: I keep hearing people rave about new health foods, such as acai, goji and mangosteen. What are these foods, and do they really live up to all the acclaim?
Answer...
By Diane Lofshult
With its pointy, prickly leaves, the artichoke is a rather daunting-looking plant. But don’t let its odd looks deter you; getting to the heart of this plant may take som...
By Diane Lofshult
Are you giving your kids a multivitamin every day to keep them healthy? You may want to reconsider that position in light of recent findings by ConsumerLab.com, a consumer wat...
By Diane Lofshult
Metabolic syndrome is a constellation of different risk factors—such as hypertension, elevated LDL cholesterol levels and obesity—that increase an individual&rsquo...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s one way to relieve pain after a heavy workout: get your sweaty self to the nearest coffee shop!
Researchers who examined the effects of moderate caffeine intake ...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers have known for years that infants possess a form of fat that helps protect them when they are cold. This so-called “brown” fat works at the cellular le...
By Diane Lofshult
On the heels of the recent pistachio nut recalls, a new government report says there has been little progress in protecting our nation’s food supply over the past decade...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a crowd-pleasing dish that is high in nutrients, simple to prepare and just sweet enough to lure your kids to the table. This salad can be served as a light lunch...
By Diane Lofshult
Stir-frying is a fast and healthy way to cook meals. The high temperature used in this method sears food quickly and preserves the natural juices, leaving meats tender and veg...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that the acids in many foods can soften the enamel on your teeth? This can make the enamel vulnerable and cause damage when brushing.
That’s why experts r...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to up the nutrients in your diet this summer? Make sure you store your watermelons on your kitchen counter instead of in the refrigerator. Melons stored at room temperatu...
By Diane Lofshult
Recent studies suggest that spices and herbs may play a protective role in food safety by reducing the growth of dangerous bacteria. For example, cloves, cinnamon, thyme, oreg...
By Diane Lofshult
Stop the presses! The results of a new randomized clinical study that compared different popular diets are in, and researchers have discovered what fitness professionals have ...
By Diane Lofshult
Arm yourself with the latest findings from
nutrition-related studies while sitting at your computer screen. You can now browse findings from the studies conducted by the Sta...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to improve the heart health of the men in your life? Maybe you need to stop trying to change their minds and instead start changing their diet.
By Diane Lofshult
You can pose your own question to our contributing editor Jennie McCary, MS, RD, LD, a registered dietitian and the wellness coordinator for the Albuquerque Public School Dist...
By Diane Lofshult
The term heirloom is used to describe any tomato plant that is naturally pollinated by wind and bees and has been cultivated for more than 50 years. Growers save the seeds fro...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to building muscle mass, men of a certain age should probably pass on the protein
supplements, says a new study in the February 2009 issue of The American Jour...
By Diane Lofshult
With springtime in full swing, a cook’s thoughts turn
to quick meals that don’t require a lot of time in a hot
kitchen. Poaching fish is a healthy way to feed ...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to buy less junk food and save money in the process? One novel way may be to choose your food delivery system carefully. Shoppers who use big carts at the supermarket ten...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a simple and easy way to ramp up your daily supply of antioxidants: squeeze some citrus fruit juice into every cup or glass of green tea you drink. According to o...
By Diane Lofshult
No wonder kids hate cauliflower: most cooks boil the vegetable within a mushy inch of its life. (This is not pork, people!)
Try roasting cauliflower instead of steaming or b...
By Diane Lofshult
Most Americans get way too much sodium in their diets, mostly by way of eating processed foods, which are heavily salted. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), th...
By Diane Lofshult
Do you suffer from cold sores that seem to appear on the eve
of special occasions that invariably involve your participation in group photos? You may be able to ward off you...
By Diane Lofshult
You can pose your own question to our contributing editor Jennie McCary, MS, RD, LD, a registered
dietitian and the wellness coordinator for the Albuquerque Public School Di...
By Diane Lofshult
Want more information on the types of fish to seek out and those you should avoid? Need a quick overview of seafood safety guidelines and recommended intake levels? Answers to...
By Diane Lofshult
Readers who have traveled to the Grecian islands may recall seeing villagers selling yogurt out of clay pots or
in goatskin bags. While we may all pine to see the ancient la...
By Diane Lofshult
Are today’s kids more prone to developing a peanut allergy at an earlier age than past
generations?
Researchers at Duke University examined the number of children di...
By Diane Lofshult
The American Dietetic Association (ADA) recently released a special supplement to its monthly journal, spotlighting an analysis of our nation’s school nutrition policies...
By Diane Lofshult
Talk about irreconcilable differences between husband and wife! A recent study has found that spouses can have a “ripple effect” on their partner’s efforts t...
By Diane Lofshult
Can eating more protein after a training session help enhance the anabolic effect of resistance exercise? The answer is a qualified “yes,” according to the results...
By Diane Lofshult
Many recent studies have examined the health benefits of following the classic Mediterranean diet, which
encourages people to eat lots of healthy fruits and vegetables and l...
By Diane Lofshult
Health-conscious consumers who order salads to cut calories are defeating themselves once they coat those greens with fat-laden, store-bought salad dressings. But you can easi...
By Diane Lofshult
The latest federal nutrition guidelines encourage Americans to increase their consumption of healthy nuts, whole grains and beans. Now that we’re stocking up on these ki...
By Diane Lofshult
Nonstick pots and pans can be very convenient in the kitchen, especially for cooks who hate to clean up. Here are some cautionary guidelines to follow when cooking with nonsti...
By Diane Lofshult
With the economy tanking, even health-conscious consumers are starting to think twice before forking out the extra money for organic products. According to Newsweek magazine (...
By Diane Lofshult
Soft cheeses, like mozzarella, can be difficult to slice or grate: their high moisture content makes the cheese hard to cut. Try this tip next time a recipe calls for cutting ...
By Diane Lofshult
No, that’s not a typo. By merely clicking onto a website called www.freerice.com, you can make a difference in the world
and help feed the hungry across the globe. Oh, a...
By Diane Lofshult
Pity the poor, misunderstood rhubarb. For years, people have argued over whether this hearty stalk is a fruit or a vegetable. Technically speaking, rhubarb is a vegetable, but...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers know that people who sleep for only a few hours each night are more likely to be obese. But now a new study has shown that those who are sleep deprived during chil...
By Diane Lofshult
missing
By Diane Lofshult
Older people who take the dietary supplement ginkgo biloba to sharpen their memory should “forget about it,” says
a study in the November 19, 2008, issue
of The ...
By Diane Lofshult
The annual American Dietetic Association’s Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo in Chicago attracted the cream of the crop within the industry. Here’s what s...
By Diane Lofshult
Nutrition scientists worry about the growing popularity, availability and misuse of
vitamins and over-the-counter (OTC) dietary supplements. It may be hard to imagine, but w...
By Diane Lofshult
Most people need to increase their daily intake of fiber and whole grains. One way to do that is to try cooking with bulgur, a stellar whole grain that is just gaining in popu...
By Diane Lofshult
Ever been accused of not knowing how to boil water? Well, there is more to the process than you might think. Here are a few things you should know before you watch that pot bo...
By Diane Lofshult
Easter Sunday falls on April 12 this year,
so you’ll have enough time to master the following egg-decorating tips:
Don’t Wait Until Easter Morning! Hard-boil a ...
By Diane Lofshult
Nutrition experts urge us to eat more healthy kinds of fish. While upping our fish intake may be beneficial to our health, it is already decimating whole populations of the wo...
By Diane Lofshult
question:answer: Use of the word natural is supposed to signify that products have been minimally processed and are free
of all arti...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to make your kitchen a “greener” place? Try these environment-friendly tips at home.
Never put hot dishes right into the fridge. Doing so makes your
refri...
By Diane Lofshult
BAM! is a new website operated by the federal government that is specially designed to be an online educational tool for kids. The site (www.bam.gov) appeals to children by la...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s no wonder fashion designers use fabrics with apricot hues to sell their summer clothing lines:
that blush of color conjures up visions of sweet, sun-drenched days...
By Diane Lofshult
To save money, many mothers are trying to find ways to cut back on food costs. But one cost-saving measure can be dangerous and perhaps even fatal: Diluting your infant’...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to type 2 diabetes, all
diets are not equal. While research has shown that low-fat vegan diets can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their health, little...
By Diane Lofshult
The American Medical Association (AMA) is trying to rid the country of harmful trans fats, one restaurant at a time. Toward that end, the AMA recently issued a position st...
By Diane Lofshult
Have you ever been asked by a client if vitamins work? Two new studies have raised doubts among nutrition experts as to whether vitamins can protect against cardiovascular dis...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a taste of what’s cooking in the world of nutrition:
The popularity of the açai fruit is damaging the rainforest as international food conglomerat...
By Diane Lofshult
How often have you slaved over a recipe, only to emerge with a product that does not meet up to your expectations and effort? Whether your concoction is too salty, too sweet o...
By Diane Lofshult
Everyone knows fresh herbs are
superior to their dried counterparts, but they are also pricey and spoil
easily. Here’s how to pick the best
of the bunch and how to...
By Diane Lofshult
Have you been to the grocery store recently and suffered sticker shock? Not only are food manufacturers shrinking their packaging way down; they are also charging you cons...
By Diane Lofshult
When baking recipes call for shortening, try substituting granules of lecithin instead. Two tablespoons of the granules equal about one-half cup of shortening or margarine...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to improve your child’s overall nutrition? One way to do that is to stock up on 100% fruit juice, according to an article in the June issue of the Archives of P...
By Diane Lofshult
Stock a few bags of lentils in your pantry, and
you’ll always have the basis for a hearty and healthy
dinner. Unlike other legumes, lentils don’t require preso...
By Diane Lofshult
Previous research has indicated that age-related cataracts can be influenced by oxidative stress in the body. Now a study suggests that long-term intake of antioxidant...
By Diane Lofshult
The Mediterranean diet is making a splash among American food enthusiasts, but this way of eating is
as old as the hills that dot the Mediterranean coastline. However, until...
By Diane Lofshult
Most of us have been told by our mothers that good table manners dictate eating our food more slowly. Good manners aside, it appears that slow eating can also lead...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a taste of what’s cooking in the world of nutrition:
Researchers at the University
of Washington in Seattle have developed a new, “improved&rdquo...
By Diane Lofshult
To help you and your clients make healthy food choices,
Yale University’s Griffin Prevention Research Center
recently developed a cheat sheet that rates the ...
By Diane Lofshult
What spells winter like maple syrup and root veggies? This side dish contains both ingredients and is quick and easy, to boot.
Your kids won’t even notice they’r...
By Diane Lofshult
The first chill of winter is the perfect time for picking parsnips. That’s
because this root veggie needs the frost to convert starch to sugar
and fully develop its ...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that one in seven Americans has a sensitivity to gluten, the elastic-like protein found in grains, such as wheat and barley? Many astute restaurant owners have ta...
By Diane Lofshult
Energy drinks can spell real trouble for teens, according to two new studies and a stern warning from a major medical center—even just one can a day may be harmful. ...
By Diane Lofshult
Can’t remember where you put those dang car keys? The key to bettering your memory may be through your stomach, according to researchers from the Medical University ...
By Diane Lofshult
Tomatoes, green beans, cilantro, spinach, ground beef, candy, peanut butter . . . The inventory of recently recalled foods reads like a grocery list. Are food recalls really...
By Diane Lofshult
Finally, some good news on the health front:
a recent study suggests that making even small changes in lifestyle can significantly lower your chances of developing metabolic...
By Diane Lofshult
By now, most clients know that drinking carbonated cola beverages is not the way to the fountain of youth. But what about other carbonated drinks, like spring water or that pr...
By Diane Lofshult
In a ruling in May, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that brown rice, a 100% whole grain, is one of a growing list of foods permitted to bear a label clai...
By Diane Lofshult
Next time you are on vacation and looking for a restaurant, whip out your Blackberry for advice. Two new websites are dishing out destination dining choices that won’t l...
By Diane Lofshult
How many mornings have you thought you would die for a cup of coffee? According to a study in the June 17 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine, that cup o’ Joe may a...
By Diane Lofshult
Chronic inflammation occurs when the body’s natural preventive mechanisms go into overdrive and overreact to a stimulus. Left unchecked, this overstimulation can lead to...
By Diane Lofshult
Most people associate kiwifruit with New Zealand, where it got its name because of its resemblance to the kiwi bird. But the fruit originated in China, which is why it was onc...
By Diane Lofshult
Next time you are buying fruit juice, go for the murky kind. Experts warn that if you can see through your glass of juice, you are probably missing out on important nutrients....
By Diane Lofshult
A pilot school lunch program that involved six middle schools in three different states has apparently made the grade. The schools altered their existing lunch programs to enc...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s another reason to turn off the boob tube: a study in the April issue
of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that a staggering number of food ...
By Diane Lofshult
Experts tell us to increase our intake of whole grains and heart-healthy fish, such as salmon. This chowder is a “two-fer” because it combines both ingredients int...
By Diane Lofshult
First, the good news: a recent study found that the prevalence of iron deficiency among U.S. toddlers (1–3 years old) remained unchanged from 1976 to 2002. However, the ...
By Diane Lofshult
To glean more health benefits from tomatoes, eat them cooked rather than raw. The heating process alters the molecular structure of the
antioxidant lycopene, making i...
By Diane Lofshult
Ever wonder about those mysterious ingredients listed on the nutrition label of your child’s favorite food? Now you can figure out all that chemical mumbo jumbo by s...
By Diane Lofshult
In July, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued new cholesterol screening and treatment recommendations for children in a policy statement that appeared in that m...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to recover more quickly after a hard workout? Stop for a large
coffee and whole-wheat bagel on the way home from the gym. That’s the conclusion of a recent report i...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a salad that can be made all year long and will appeal to both kids and adults. It is quick to fix and colorful enough
to perk up any dinner table spread.
...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s no secret that fitness professionals are seeing an alarming increase
in the number of clients with diabetes. To help your diabetic clients eat more healthful food...
By Diane Lofshult
Also known as celery cabbage or Chinese cabbage, napa cabbage is mellower in taste than the pungent variety most people eat only on St. Patrick’s Day. Readers wh...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers reporting in the February issue of the Journal of Hypertension recently investigated the association between red meat and poultry intake with the risk of d...
By Diane Lofshult
Quinoa is a healthy alternative to other types of whole grains. When paired
with high-fiber black beans, quinoa is a great backdrop for a healthy and unique sala...
By Diane Lofshult
Most people have trouble keeping and/or building muscle mass once they reach middle age. Now researchers at Tufts University say that increasing dietary potassium levels by ea...
By Diane Lofshult
Many cancer patients suffer terrible effects from the ravages of conventional chemotherapy treatments. Now a recent study published online by the Proceedings of the Na...
By Diane Lofshult
According to researchers from The Miriam
Hospital and Brown University, those clients of
yours who manage to lose pounds and maintain a healthy wei...
By Diane Lofshult
Many recipes call for a cup or two of chopped canned tomatoes. Rather than create a mess by cutting whole tomatoes on a cutting board, try this tip, courtesy of Cooking Light ...
By Diane Lofshult
Most “foodies” know that famed chef and visionary Alice Waters is often credited with being the person most responsible for promoting healthy eating in res...
By Diane Lofshult
Parents know that milk provides key nutrients and fortifies bones and teeth in children. But it can be like pulling teeth to get some kids to drink plain, unflavored milk,...
By Diane Lofshult
2 teaspoons (tsp) olive oil
1 large onion, halved and thinly sliced (2 cups)
11/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into 3/4-inch pieces
3 cloves g...
By Diane Lofshult
Along with pumpkins and gourds, a startling variety of winter squash is now making its way into markets everywhere. The array of choices—including spaghetti, acorn and b...
By Diane Lofshult
Valentine’s Day is just weeks away, which means only one thing to many lovers: Time to bust out the chocolate! With all the recent media hype about the health benefits o...
By Diane Lofshult
Kids will especially love these tasty and quick roll-ups, which are fun to eat and to prepare. Try using whole-wheat instead of white-flour tortillas to increase the fiber con...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s been called everything from “incredible” and “Nature’s perfect food” to “lowly.” For years, the egg was maligned by the sc...
By Diane Lofshult
Who says organic food isn’t worth the extra cost? A new study suggests that buying healthier but costlier ingredients may be the better deal in the long run. Replacing less ...
By Diane Lofshult
’Tis the season to stock up on juicy, ripe raspberries. These ephemeral delicacies are hard to resist, especially since they are teeming with healthy nutrients.
Healt...
By Diane Lofshult
Moms (and dads) who want to find out what their kids are eating at school have a new weapon in their arsenal. MyNutriKids monitors what your children consume in the cafeteria....
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that egg yolks are one of the few foods that contain all of the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K)? Still, the lowly egg yolk continues to be much maligned, due...
By Diane Lofshult
Consumers who are dealing with the effects of cancer treatment now have a place to turn for questions about diet and general nutrition. The American Institute for Cancer Resea...
By Diane Lofshult
Store shelves are bursting with the weight of the summer’s crop of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries. Enjoy them now, but know that you can also freeze berries to ea...
By Diane Lofshult
The television show The Biggest Loser encourages viewers to lose copious amounts of weight in order to live longer (and compete for the top prize). But fitness professionals k...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s summertime, and the tomato vines will soon be as heavy as the humidity in the air. Here is the perfect recipe to try when the tomatoes in your garden are ready for pick...
By Diane Lofshult
Adolescent girls who compete in athletic events sometimes fall victim to disordered eating, which has been linked to low bone mineral density (BMD). To explore the specific ...
By Diane Lofshult
Cooks who want to save the planet can help by taking small steps to conserve water. Adopt these water conservation habits, and make your kitchen a little greener in the proc...
By Diane Lofshult
Food prices are escalating at an alarming rate these days. Blame it on the rising cost of fuel to ferry food from farms to market and also the demand for ethanol gas, which ...
By Diane Lofshult
Low-carbohydrate diets may lure clients with promises of rapid weight loss, but the long-term health effects of these popular diets are unknown. Researchers recently conduct...
By Diane Lofshult
Magnesium is vital for good bone health
and the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. Deficiencies in this key mineral
can increase the risk of developing
migraine h...
By Diane Lofshult
Consumers are starting to realize that healthy eating is all about moderation. They have been bombarded with advice about portion control and encouraged to stick to single ser...
By Diane Lofshult
Is your place of business a dieter’s worst nightmare? Are the vending machines stocked with potato chips and cookies? Does the boss order in for pepperoni pizza when eve...
By Diane Lofshult
Albertsons grocery chain has launched a new program that offers school kids a field trip to local stores to learn about healthy eating habits. The Albertsons Healthy
Eaters&...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s another reason to encourage eating meals together as a family: your teenagers will have a lower risk
of developing any type of disordered eating behavior.
...
By Diane Lofshult
For people at risk for hypertension, reducing fat intake may be key to protecting the heart. According to a study published in the American Heart Association’s journal H...
By Diane Lofshult
Caffeine can be your enemy if you are pregnant, says a new study that appeared in the March issue of the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Too much caff...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s almost
summertime, and the living will soon be easier. Fish are jumping, and the
barbeque is turned up high. Try this quick and healthy recipe on the first
balmy...
By Diane Lofshult
We’ve all heard that kids need to eat
breakfast to sustain their energy over the course of their active days. But a
Taiwanese study published in the November 2007 issu...
By Diane Lofshult
Ever wonder
what those sticky labels are on the fruit and veggies you buy? According to
IDEA contributing editor Jennie McCary, MS, RD, the labels identify whether
prod...
By Diane Lofshult
Before you
dump that little pink packet of Sweet’N Low into your next cup of tea, consider
this: a new study has found that using an artificial, no-calorie sweetener i...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes
to your health, drinking hot water straight from the tap may get you into,
well, hot water. While it can be tempting to simply drop a tea bag into
piping-...
By Diane Lofshult
Want that
dewy, flawless skin that you see in ads in women’s magazines? One way to
achieve that healthy glow may be by improving the food you put into your body.
...
By Diane Lofshult
It’s hard
enough to remember to bring along a shopping list to the grocery store. How are
we supposed to keep track of which foods and beverages have been recalled
la...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to stature, there may be an
advantage to being short, says a study published in the February issue of The American
Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
In
...
By Diane Lofshult
Cutting up
round fruit, like apples, can be dicey. Instead of apple slices, you may end up
with real finger food! To avoid injury, try this neat tip from the editors of ...
By Diane Lofshult
Like the first
flowers appearing out of the snow, the first spring onions are peeking out of
produce bins right about now. Spring onions are basically more developed tha...
By Diane Lofshult
Surveys have
shown that the majority of adult consumers now check nutrition facts labels
when they first try new products. Many shoppers use these helpful labels to
mak...
By Diane Lofshult
Just when consumers have finally learned to avoid foods that contain dangerous trans fat, someone has created a substitute ingredient that’s just as bad for you.
Pass ...
By Diane Lofshult
Much has
been made of the different approaches used to maintain weight loss in adults.
However, there is scant data on how to help children keep off the pounds over
tim...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers at
the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital have found that kids
who get little sleep may end up getting a bigger waistline. The study,...
By Diane Lofshult
Fitness
professionals may sometimes take products containing acetaminophen (e.g.,
Tylenol®) to soothe their
aching muscles after heavy exercise bouts. They might also ...
By Diane Lofshult
We are always
hearing that dark-green, leafy vegetables should form a large part of our diet.
These veggies are packed with vitamin K and lutein,
two nutrients that opt...
By Diane Lofshult
Going to a
restaurant while trying to lose weight or adopt healthier eating habits can
present a real challenge. For many dieters, dining out is a time when
temptations...
By Diane Lofshult
You know it’s
almost spring when bright green bunches of asparagus start popping up like
crocuses in your local market. Considering how delicious these young spears
a...
By Diane Lofshult
There is a dangerous new trend among teenagers with
type 1 diabetes: it’s called “diabulimia,” and it’s coming to a city near you.
Diabulimia occurs when young p...
By Diane Lofshult
Consumers
concerned about food safety may have another reason to be anxious: in January,
the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the sale of cloned meat and
dai...
By Diane Lofshult
This Italian
omelet can be served as either a quick dinner or a weekend brunch. Replacing
some of the whole eggs with egg whites keeps the fat and calorie count low.
Th...
By Diane Lofshult
Many pregnant
women experience morning sickness, usually during their first trimester. In
fact, 70%–80% of pregnant women report having some degree of morning sickness...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know
that the majority of people keep spices for more than 4 years? That’s a full 2 years past their prime,
according to the spice producer McCormick. The long...
By Diane Lofshult
Have you ever been in the middle of mixing up a
cocktail when you realized you did not have the “superfine” sugar that is one
of the key ingredients? No worries: You...
By Diane Lofshult
The American Heart Association (AHA) issued an
alert in November to warn consumers that energy drinks may pose a health risk
for people who have high blood pressure or h...
By Diane Lofshult
When
it comes to olive oil, more is sometimes less. Reserve that pricey extra virgin
olive oil for dishes that will showcase its unique taste; for example, use the
high...
By Diane Lofshult
Type 2 diabetes is on the rise among all Americans, but African American women are at particularly high risk for developing the condition. Scientific research to date has li...
By Diane Lofshult
Enjoy some rich, dark-chocolate cocoa and lower your blood
pressure in the process, says a report in The
Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). Prior resear...
By Diane Lofshult
Who doesn’t
want some “comfort food” after a hard day of working and exercising? Trouble
is, most traditional comfort foods tend to be full of unhealthy fats and
...
By Diane Lofshult
In what some
called a “remarkable” admission, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
recently issued a report saying the agency is unable to adequately safeguar...
By Diane Lofshult
Italy is a
hugely popular destination for travelers. But first-time visitors often commit
culinary crimes that make Italians cringe. Here are some simple tips that will
...
By Diane Lofshult
Fitness professionals,
especially group instructors, exercise their vocal cords almost as much as they
exercise their muscles. Here are some sound tips from speech patho...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to add
something exotic to your usual salad or baked goods? Pick up a few persimmons
next time you’re in your supermarket. These brightly colored fruits are healt...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to get
your youngsters interested in making healthier meals? You may want to enroll
them in cooking classes designed exclusively for kids. These classes, which can
...
By Diane Lofshult
The conventional
wisdom is that most children will snub their noses at healthy foods, especially
nutritional school lunches. Yet this wisdom is being challenged by the r...
By Diane Lofshult
A study in the
December 6 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine gives new credence to keeping kids fit throughout
childhood: children who carry excess weight are ...
By Diane Lofshult
Put that beer glass down if you want to decrease your risk of colon or rectal cancers, says a recent report in the International Journal of Cancer. The study researchers warn ...
By Diane Lofshult
Heart failure (HF) is the leading cause of hospitalization among older adults in the United States. Eating whole-grain and high-fiber foods has been shown to reduce the risk o...
By Diane Lofshult
Southern Californians know how confusing it can be to pack up the right items when evacuating during a natural disaster, such as the recent wildfires. It is hard enough to rem...
By Diane Lofshult
Biodynamic wine is making a splash among eco-friendly consumers; the term refers to wine from grapes grown by vintners who integrate organic agriculture with the rhythm of the...
By Diane Lofshult
Myriad studies have shown that skipping breakfast is one of the worst ways to try to lose weight or maintain optimal health. But it can be a real challenge to find healthy bre...
By Diane Lofshult
Low-carbohydrate diets continue to be quite popular, especially among clients trying to lose weight by exercising. But can these diets actually backfire by causing frustration...
By Diane Lofshult
Turkey meatloaf may be healthier than traditional meatloaf made with beef or veal, but it also tends to be drier and less tasty. This turkey meatloaf recipe is guaranteed to b...
By Diane Lofshult
Sometimes health professionals pay so much attention to the science behind weight loss that they forget to ask consumers for their opinions. Thankfully, you have only to look ...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to fend off or fight a cold sore? Experts recommend that you avoid foods such as chocolate, peanuts, sunflower seeds and coffee. These foods are rich in a nutrient called...
By Diane Lofshult
The scientific body of research is replete with studies that confirm that a diet high in fruits and veggies contributes to optimal respiratory health. But few studies have exp...
By Diane Lofshult
Dietary supplements are a way of life for many health-conscious consumers. With products ranging from vitamins to weight loss aids, the supplement business is booming. You may...
By Diane Lofshult
By now, most people know that peanut allergies are a very real concern, especially among children. But parents and educators need to be aware that kids may react more severely...
By Diane Lofshult
The American Diabetes Association has some advice for you: the organization’s latest 2006–2007 Nutrition Recommendations: Issues for Practice Translation encourages all he...
By Diane Lofshult
Parents can blame outsider influences for a lot of their children’s behaviors, but generally not for an aversion to trying new foods. According to a study in the August 2007...
By Diane Lofshult
How would you rate the vending machines in your child’s school? Did you know that schools throughout America are now required to adhere to strict national nutrition standard...
By Diane Lofshult
Add an avocado as a topper to your next salad to boost its health benefits. Your body will absorb 3–5 times more cancer-fighting nutrients, such as beta carotene and lycopen...
By Diane Lofshult
How often have you plucked a package of food from your freezer only to find that it is crusted with enough ice particles to build a snowman? What is freezer burn, and is it sa...
By Diane Lofshult
To clean all that gunk out of your electric can opener, run a paper towel through the mechanism. This will trap most of the grease and food particles. ...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a new free online source for clients seeking reputable nutrition information: www.NutritionPedia.com. Geared to consumers, this searchable database lists nutrition fa...
By Diane Lofshult
What would you get if you crossed a blackberry with a red raspberry? Believe it or not, there is such a hybrid and it is called “olallieberry” (pronounced oh-LA-leh-berry)...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to keep your choppers pearly white? Try these quick and easy techniques, which—when performed regularly—just might brighten your smile!After eating any food that leav...
By Diane Lofshult
Research has determined that drinking fat-free milk after resistance exercise promotes a greater positive protein balance than consuming soymilk or other types of soy protein....
By Diane Lofshult
Asking the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to qualify a food to be labeled as having a health benefit is a little like asking Oprah Winfrey to pick your book for her b...
By Diane Lofshult
This new section encourages IDEA readers to pose a question to our contributing editor Jennie McCary, MS, RD, LD, a registered dietitian and the wellness coordinator for the A...
By Diane Lofshult
untitled
Fitness professionals are hungry for knowledge, and most are chomping ...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a taste of what’s cooking in the world of nutrition:
As of July, the cost of food has been rising at a rate of 5.7% this year, compared with the 2.1% inc...
By Diane Lofshult
Here are some juicy tips for handling, storing and cooking with citrus fruits:Always wash, rinse and thoroughly dry oranges before peeling. Then remove the zest (the colored r...
By Diane Lofshult
Most doctors will advise patients to stop taking any herbal remedy at least 1 week prior to undergoing surgery. That’s because many herbal supplements can cause problems dur...
By Diane Lofshult
Dubbed the “Jewish penicillin” by mothers around the world, chicken noodle soup appears to have a medicinal effect on cold sufferers. At the very least, a hot bowl of this...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to help your children or young clients eat more healthy foods? A new resource is just a click away on the Internet.The Team Nutrition Activity booklet is now available fo...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to contribute to a greener Earth? You can make every day Earth Day at your house (and teach your kids to respect the environment in the process) by following these simple...
By Diane Lofshult
Nutrition experts and cooks alike have long extolled the virtues and taste sensations of a traditional Mediterranean diet. But until recently, few randomized, controlled clini...
By Diane Lofshult
Looking for a healthy drink to replace your daily can of soda, which has recently been linked to an increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome? Try making a jug of iced t...
By Diane Lofshult
Body mass index (BMI) during adolescence is a known predictor of what a teen will weigh as an adult. However, because BMI cannot distinguish between lean and fat body mass, is...
By Diane Lofshult
Milk has long been the whipping boy when it comes to health scares about the dangers of excess fat in our diets. Now nutrition experts are saying that milk does have a place o...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers have known for some time that drinking soft drinks, such as sodas, is linked to obesity
in children and adolescents. It is equally well recognized that peopl...
By Diane Lofshult
No doubt about it, today’s kids are savvy consumers who know what they want and how to get it from mom and dad. This fact has not been lost on fast-food marketers, who have ...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that handling pet food or treats can put you at risk for salmonella? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health alert to pet owners...
By Diane Lofshult
The best way to ensure that your utensils are squeaky clean is to load forks, spoons and knives individually before running your dishwasher. Bunching your utensils in the ...
By Diane Lofshult
Somewhere in your cupboard, chances are you have a can of baking soda and a box of baking powder. But do you really know the difference between these two products? While both ...
By Diane Lofshult
Do you often rely on a sandwich when you need a quick meal? You are not alone. According to a recent Harris Interactive Quick Query online survey of 2,604 people, the most pop...
By Diane Lofshult
On June 22, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a final rule that establishes regulations requiring manufacturers of dietary supplements to adopt “current ...
By Diane Lofshult
Fitness professionals who work with clients with high blood pressure can now access a free online recipe book that conforms to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DAS...
By Diane Lofshult
While delicious, French cassoulets are traditionally high in calories and animal fat, owing to the inclusion of sausages, duck and pork. This low-calorie version substitutes c...
By Diane Lofshult
In many parts of the country, autumn is giving way to winter, a time when fresh vegetables are harder to come by. However, this is the season to celebrate the arrival of winte...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a taste of what’s cooking in
the world of nutrition:
With clean water in short supply
in many Third World countries,
manufacturers are experimenting ...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers in Cologne, Germany, recently conducted a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials to determine whether cocoa and tea had any effect on blood pressure. The g...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to weight loss, the news about soy is somewhat sorry. According to a study published in the March 2007 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association,...
By Diane Lofshult
Schools may be able to teach adolescents more than reading, writing and arithmetic: Diet and exercise may soon be the new math. According to a study in the June 2007 issue of ...
By Diane Lofshult
A new website developed by the FDA provides a single, user-friendly resource where consumers can find a variety of health and nutrition information. The website tackles topics...
By Diane Lofshult
Are you raising picky eaters? Do you want to encourage your children to eat healthily and adopt good food habits? Well, parents, the onus is on you to set the right example, a...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to spice up your next dinner party? Experiment with one of the following exotic herbs, which are finding their way to a supermarket shelf near you!
Aged Garlic. Organic ...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that eating more slowly and mindfully can actually reduce
the amount of food you consume at each meal? That’s one reason why so
many nutrition experts r...
By Diane Lofshult
Talk about weird science! Here’s a finding out of left field: Overweight and obese men actually have a lower risk of suicide than their leaner counterparts! The reason t...
By Diane Lofshult
Red or green, the grape has a long and storied history. In fact, the Bible says that Noah planted a grape vineyard, and the fruit was
a known favorite of ancient and prosper...
By Diane Lofshult
Many health-conscious consumers are convinced that the garlic supplements they take each day offer many health benefits, including lowering their dangerous cholesterol levels....
By Diane Lofshult
Based on the findings of a recent study regarding gestational weight gain and childhood obesity, health experts may need to revise long-standing guidelines on how much weight ...
By Diane Lofshult
Few studies have looked at the impact of school meals on a child’s educational performance—until now, that is. Researchers recently reported on a study that evalua...
By Diane Lofshult
Ladies and gentlemen: Start your barbeque engines. It is time for some heavy grilling and chilling! This simple but satisfying summer meal can be rounded out with a green sala...
By Diane Lofshult
Tired of those tired meals the airlines serve in coach (assuming you even get a meal these days!)? With today’s restrictions on beverages and carry-on luggage, packing a...
By Diane Lofshult
Can taking antioxidant supplements extend the length of your life? Or are these supplements just taking a big bite out of your wallet?
Researchers in Denmark, Serbia and Ital...
By Diane Lofshult
According to data obtained from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, the number of kids and teens under the age of 20 who underwent bariatric weight loss surgery more than...
By Diane Lofshult
In the aftermath of the recent spinach health scare, congressional leaders have introduced legislation to house all food safety responsibilities under a single new Food Sa...
By Diane Lofshult
Who doesn’t enjoy a chilled popsicle on a hot, muggy summer day? Trouble is, too many of the store-bought varieties are loaded with sugar and other nonhealthy ingredient...
By Diane Lofshult
Women who want to lose weight and keep it off might want to read...
By Diane Lofshult
Next time you bring home a juicy watermelon, think twice before storing it in your refrigerator. According to the USDA, studies have shown that melons stored at room tempe...
By Diane Lofshult
Consumers have been bombarded with news reports
that eating ...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you ever dream about going to Harvard University? Now consum...
By Diane Lofshult
With their soft, downy fuzz and sunny-red color, peaches are ...
By Diane Lofshult
A recent study in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine (2007; 161 [1], 58–64) found that prenatal vitamin supplementation may help underweight pre....
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a taste of what’s cooking in
the world of nutrition:
Researchers at the University of Iowa and the University of Michigan Health System found that people...
By Diane Lofshult
Functional foods continue to be all the rage these days. According to Datamonitor, an industry watchdog group, the functional food market in the United States has already reac...
By Diane Lofshult
The FDA has ruled on the safety of introducing cloned animals into the nation’s food supply, marking the way for the United States to become the first country to allow p...
By Diane Lofshult
News services reported recently that the best way to sterilize sponges at home is to heat them in a microwave oven for 2 minutes. After these reports were published, numerous ...
By Diane Lofshult
We all know that childhood obesity is at an all-time high in many developed nations. Health experts say that the earlier a child is identified as having a weight problem, the ...
By Diane Lofshult
Nothing says springtime is in full swing better than fresh, green asparagus spears on store shelves. This light and flavorful pasta dish can be served with a tossed green sala...
By Diane Lofshult
More and more health-conscious cooks are adding oats to their pantries and pastries these days. No wonder, considering all the emerging research proving
that this whole grai...
By Diane Lofshult
Strange as it may seem, higher body mass index (BMI) has been associated with reduced risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women. Researchers recently conducted a longitudin...
By Diane Lofshult
The cleverest kitchen gadgets are rolling off the shelves this year. Here are a few to sink your teeth into, as described by the editors at Parade magazine.
High-Tech Refrige...
By Diane Lofshult
Recent studies suggest that kids who learn how to cook become more self-sufficient and more health-
conscious adults. Cookbooks aimed at getting parents cooking with their ki...
By Diane Lofshult
Many cooks thing it is best to cool leftover foods on the counter before putting them in the refrigerator. They (mistakenly) believe that allowing the food to cool more slowly...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to maintaining strong bones as we age, is it better to lose weight by severely reducing your caloric intake or by exercising instead? Researchers recently set ou...
By Diane Lofshult
Does frequent self-weighing make adolescents and teens more vulnerable to body image disorders and yo-yo dieting? Researchers recently tried to answer that question in a 5-yea...
By Diane Lofshult
The Mattel Corporation has found a new avenue for teaching kids about proper nutrition. The company’s Mattel Children’s Foundation recently allocated $15,000 to a ...
By Diane Lofshult
Women are notorious for losing weight and then gaining it all back again in a vicious cycle of weight fluctuation. Now a new study says that this kind of weight cycling can be...
By Diane Lofshult
A study conducted by The American Physiological Society has raised interesting questions about why some people seem to be born to move while others prefer to hibernate like sl...
By Diane Lofshult
Want your teens to improve their diets and learn to make healthful choices when they leave your nest? One way to improve their chances is to involve them in food buying and di...
By Diane Lofshult
We all know we shouldn’t drink too much soda. In addition to being chock-full of sugar, most sodas eat away at the protective enamel of our teeth, causing tooth decay. B...
By Diane Lofshult
From portobellos to white truffles, mushrooms are taking center stage on the dinner plate at many of the world’s best restaurants. Although mushrooms are typically found...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers in Sweden recently examined the association between long-term fish consumption and the risk of renal (kidney) cell carcinoma (RCC) in a group of more than 61,000 w...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the latest federal dietary guidelines, we should all be eating more whole grains on a daily basis. The good news is that manufacturers are introducing a cornucopi...
By Diane Lofshult
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently filed complaints in four separate cases against marketers of weight control pills for what the commission called “decept...
By Diane Lofshult
Supper clubs in friends’ homes are all the rage these days, according to a recent article in Cooking Light magazine. The trend toward communal cooking may be a ref...
By Diane Lofshult
To ensure your children get enough whole grains each day, try this tip: Sprinkle a little bit of bran or wheat germ powder into your family’s favorite recipes, from past...
By Diane Lofshult
We all know that we should be getting more fruits and vegetables in order to stay healthy. But can the produce we eat help ward off negative cognitive changes, such as short-t...
By Diane Lofshult
A growing number of shoppers are apparently making use of the new self-checkout
option at their local grocery stores. Do-it-yourself cash registers are becoming so
popular...
By Diane Lofshult
The New York City Board
of Health recently adopted the country’s first major
municipal ban on the use
of artificial trans fats in
city restaurants, a move
appl...
By Diane Lofshult
What would happen if you banned all sugary soda beverages and asked a group of teens to try a healthier substitute? Would they rebel and demand their sugar high? Or would they...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that feta cheese contains about one-third less fat than other types of cheeses? No wonder consumers are flocking to feta! This tangy cheese made headlines this ye...
By Diane Lofshult
Eating red meat may increase a premenopausal woman’s risk of getting breast cancer, according to a study published in the November 13, 2006,
issue of the Archives of I...
By Diane Lofshult
Most clients are aware that they should be getting enough vitamins in the food they select each day. Minerals, the bastard child of vitamins, tend to get
less attention.
Ye...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a taste of what’s cooking in the world of nutrition:
People who ascribe to a
calorie-restricted food plan are touting the merits of Quorn,
a patented...
By Diane Lofshult
This tasty but simple meal can be churned out in less than 30 minutes. Top it over a serving of whole-wheat pasta for a complete dinner that’s ready in no time!
Ingre...
By Diane Lofshult
Anyone who has a child who suffers from a food allergy knows just how difficult it can be to dine out or attend a birthday party. Even cookies-and-milk time
at school can be...
By Diane Lofshult
Pity the poor fig: Once a mainstay in the winter months, this fruit has fallen out of favor in the last few decades. But now the fig is making
a comeback, and manufacturers ...
By Diane Lofshult
Soft drinks are high in calories and low in nutritional value. While that doesn’t stop most of us from hoisting a soda occasionally, maybe a report in the October 2006 i...
By Diane Lofshult
The polyphenols in green tea have long
been thought to offer protection from heart disease and cancer. Recently, researchers
in Japan conducted a population-based prospect...
By Diane Lofshult
Several studies have shown that e-mail counseling can improve weight loss attempts among users of self-directed Internet diet programs. Some people think that computer-tailore...
By Diane Lofshult
The International Marathon Medical Directors Association (IMMDA) recently revised its fluid replacement guidelines for those who run marathon races. The updated recommendation...
By Diane Lofshult
Baby Boomers who border on pudgy when entering middle age may have more to worry about than just fitting into their designer jeans. A recent study says being even a little bit...
By Diane Lofshult
The introduction of fresh, triple-washed bags of salad and spinach was a boon to time-pressed consumers trying to eat more healthily. That’s why so many nutrition expert...
By Diane Lofshult
Cooks who want to ensure the safety of the fresh fruit they buy may want to consider the art of poaching. Not only does the cooking discourage bacteria growth, but the poachin...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers in Israel recently announced that they have found a link between childhood obesity and vitamin B12 deficiency. More than 300 children and adolescents were divided ...
By Diane Lofshult
The William J. Clinton Foundation recently announced that it has partnered with the American Heart Association to encourage food manufacturers to make school snacks healthier....
By Diane Lofshult
Past research studies have suggested that a low intake of vitamin K may be linked to an increased rate of bone fractures. Researchers in Japan recently examined numerous r...
By Diane Lofshult
Looking for a holiday treat that is brimming with healthy ingredients but still sure to appeal to kids and adults alike? Try these hearty muffins for breakfast or as part of a...
By Diane Lofshult
Coffee drinkers know that a little bit of caffeine can go a long way in getting their days off to a bright start. But can a cup of Joe also give habitual drinkers a bette...
By Diane Lofshult
Prompted in part by the rising rate of obesity among school-age children, the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) recently rel...
By Diane Lofshult
All medications—whether prescription or over-the counter—have some type of side effect, according to nutritionist Madelyn Fernstrom. Side effects run the gamut fro...
By Diane Lofshult
If that last onion in the bag has started sprouting little green tendrils, don’t cry. Instead, repurpose it for future use by planting it. Put the sprouted bulb into a ...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a taste of what’s cooking in the world of nutrition:
Managed by a team of registered dietitians, the website www.nutrition resource.com offers practical ...
By Diane Lofshult
Those of you who want to satisfy your sweet tooth with a natural sugar substitute now have a plethora of products to try out. Here is the lowdown on some of the most popular ...
By Diane Lofshult
An extra can of soda a day can add as much as 15 pounds in a single year, warned a report in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. According to...
By Diane Lofshult
Two studies this year have debunked the belief that vitamin B and folic acid can lower cardiovascular risk. In fact, both reports, which appeared in the March 16 issue of The ...
By Diane Lofshult
Is it safe to use plastic food wrap for microwave cooking? Which wraps work best for preserving perishable foods? Can aluminum foil actually cause certain foods to spoil more ...
By Diane Lofshult
We all bemoan the effect the media have had on the health of our nation’s children. For reasons ranging from unrealistic beauty images on magazine covers to the countles...
By Diane Lofshult
The American Dietetic Association (ADA) has issued a new Position Paper to help parents, educators and other health professionals stem the tide of childhood obesity on a grass...
By Diane Lofshult
Pressed for time but still want to provide healthy fare for your family and friends? The editors of Health magazine recently convened a panel of nutrition experts who voted on...
By Diane Lofshult
Do you wait till the last minute to cut up fruits, in order to preserve valuable nutrients? Well, wait no more. A new study found that cutting and packaging fruit has no effec...
By Diane Lofshult
People who constantly diet tend to have lower body satisfaction than those who are content with their weight. Now a new study shows that dieting itself may be a precursor to e...
By Diane Lofshult
Confused about the merits of margarine versus butter? Uncertain if you should buy a cooking spray instead of shortening squeezes or spreads? Worried about trans fats in sticks...
By Diane Lofshult
This refreshing salad is great for those dog days
of summer. Serve it as a side dish to your main meal or as an entrée with a loaf of crusty whole-wheat bread...
By Diane Lofshult
June is the month when those delicious summer fruits start to appear on store shelves. Recently, the USDA measured the disease-fighting antioxidants in a bevy of &ldqu...
By Diane Lofshult
This year’s Fancy Food Show, a veritable Mecca for foodies,took place in San Francisco. More than 80,000 specialty food products were on show at the annual convention, w...
By Diane Lofshult
Energy bars are a great way to get occasional, nutrient-dense shots of energy and vitamins while on the run. But these meal replacements can be too much of a good thing when i...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 75 million Americans get sick from tainted food each year, resulting in 325,000 hospitalizations and 5,0...
By Diane Lofshult
If you are confused about some of the latest scientific findings from the ongoing, large-scale Women’s Health Initiative, welcome to the club! One recent finding, in...
By Diane Lofshult
Known as the “poor man’s asparagus,” the lowly leek is actually part of the onion and garlic family of vegetables. Similar to scallions, leeks have a mild, s...
By Diane Lofshult
Do you need a translator every time you try a new, exotic recipe?
You are not alone. All cooks need occasional help with food terms that can seem like Greek to anyone not flu...
By Diane Lofshult
The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) has ...
By Diane Lofshult
Attendees at the first-ever International Conference on Prevention of Dementia last summer had cause to raise their glasses to celebrate the findings of a recent study. Resear...
By Diane Lofshult
Are you in over your head when it comes to all the bottled waters flooding the markets? If so, here’s a cheat sheet for deciphering the label on your favorite water bott...
By Diane Lofshult
Late last December, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FD...
By Diane Lofshult
Enjoying dinner as a family is a good way to instill healthy habits in your kids—especially in young girls at risk of developing eating disorders, say the authors of a ...
By Diane Lofshult
Kids may have a whole new reason to skip school: A new study suggests that schoolwide food practices and policies can actually lead to weight gain in adolescents.
As rep...
By Diane Lofshult
Citing public pressure, the FDA has lowered the amount of lead allowed in children’s candy to one-fifth of the previous standards established in 1995. Candy manufacturer...
By Diane Lofshult
Taking the time to savor your food is one way to eat less at each sitting, say a growing number of food experts. One way to do this is to eat mindfully, which helps you no...
By Diane Lofshult
Plant-based diets are typically associated with improved health and increased disease protection. However, some researchers have uncovered nutritional deficiencies in people w...
By Diane Lofshult
Still fielding questions from clients as to which diet works best in the long term? Here’s some food for thought from the editors of Health magazine, who recently survey...
By Diane Lofshult
New parents confused about the proper age at which to introduce solid foods to their babies now have a nifty resource at their disposal. Starting Solids: A Nutrition Guide f...
By Diane Lofshult
Wanting to teach your own kids about healthy food choices, but still perplexed by the government’s revised MyPyramid on the Internet? Check out a new website called Groo...
By Diane Lofshult
Studies have shown that drinking certain wines can have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health. But which wines pair best with which foods? And what else do you ...
By Diane Lofshult
A recent study presented at a meeting of the American Chemical Society garnered a lot of media attention when it confirmed what many nutrition experts already suspected: Ameri...
By Diane Lofshult
The good news is that you can substitute potatoes for the parsnips or carrots for the squash in this quick and easy casserole.
2 parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
...
By Diane Lofshult
Jewish mothers around the world rejoiced when scientists proved that chicken soup can reduce the inflammation associated with the common cold. Now research is revealing that o...
By Diane Lofshult
You have probably seen those funny TV commercials that show harried men fighting at the dairy counter for the last carton of milk, ostensibly to bring it home to wives who are...
By Diane Lofshult
Is it possible to eat beef on a regular basis and not get beefy in the process? Absolutely, says an article that appeared in a supplement to the October 2005 issue of Tufts Un...
By Diane Lofshult
More than 1 in 3 British children are clueless when it comes to knowing what chips (french fries) are made of, says a new—and discouraging—study conducted by t...
By Diane Lofshult
Randomized clinical trials have shown that increasing potassium intake can lower blood pressure. However, most of these trials involved the use of potassium chloride supplemen...
By Diane Lofshult
Children across America now have their own kid-friendly version of the government’s online MyPyramid Food Guidance System. Appropriately titled MyPyramid for Kids, the n...
By Diane Lofshult
The idea that restricting calories can lead to a longer life has been intriguing scientists for some time. Studies involving small animals, such as mice, have led some res...
By Diane Lofshult
Ever get to the middle of a recipe and realize that your cupboard is bare of an essential ingredient? This can be particularly vexing when the item is not one easily f...
By Diane Lofshult
Nutrition experts say that a good way to scale back on calories is to eat smaller portions. One way to accomplish this is to invest in a reliable kitchen scale, which can ...
By Diane Lofshult
Popeye got it right: He really was strong to the finish because he ate his spinach!
Health Effects. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin A and is also rich in vitamin C...
By Diane Lofshult
With the school year half over, many parents are running out of ideas about what to pop in the old lunch box. Here are some new products to consider that will up the fun f...
By Diane Lofshult
Think that you are being virtuous when grazing at the salad bar instead of grabbing a burger for lunch? Well, think again: Many of the items lurking under that plastic pro...
By Diane Lofshult
The American Dietetic Association (ADA) recently released its first Position Paper on the topic of nutritional fortification and supplementation. This paper, which appeared in...
By Diane Lofshult
High-school students who are provided nutrition information in cafeterias are more likely to make healthy food choices than those who do not have access to such guidelines...
By Diane Lofshult
A recent meta-analysis of research on different types of nuts indicates that almonds, pecans, peanuts and walnuts can lower cholesterol levels. This finding confirms the r...
By Diane Lofshult
After suffering a stroke, older adults have a two to four times greater risk of fracturing a hip. Is there a way that diet can reduce this risk?
Yes, says a group of scienti...
By Diane Lofshult
Here’s a healthy way to use up all your turkey leftovers during that long Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Pair this soup with some crusty whole-wheat bread and a simple gr...
By Diane Lofshult
It has long been known that iron deficiency anemia...
By Diane Lofshult
Iron poisoning is a major cause of unintentional poisoning death in young children under 6 years of age. What, if anything, has anyone been doing about this real danger?
Rese...
By Diane Lofshult
Does the thought of planning a holiday menu leave you feeling bewitched, bothered and bewildered? Composing a festive bill of fare is a cinch if you follow these tips from...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to spud choices, is your family divided over their preference for white potatoes over sweet potatoes? Although all potatoes are practically fat-free (at least, ...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to diet, teenage girls need a lot of...
By Diane Lofshult
The herbal supplement echinacea has been gaining favor among health-conscious people who prefer a “natural” remedy for those pesky symptoms of the common cold....
By Diane Lofshult
Diet and lifestyle modifications can substantially reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Although a strong inverse association has been found between dairy consumption and i...
By Diane Lofshult
We Can! (Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity & Nutrition) is a new national program designed to be a one-stop Internet resource for parents and other caregiv...
By Diane Lofshult
Whether you are a teetotaler or simply concerned about your younger guests, there are occasions when it is advisable to replace the alcohol in a recipe with a less potent pot...
By Diane Lofshult
French women, move over. Some new gals are going to be the talk of the town for their ability to stay slim.
According to a study published in the June 2005 online edit...
By Diane Lofshult
Did you know that carrots come in a rainbow of colors beyond the lowly orange commonly seen in grocery stores? In fact, up until the Middle Ages, carrots were available only i...
By Diane Lofshult
Until recently, little has been known about the health effects of a raw-food vegetarian diet. Now a study published in the March 28 issue of the Archives of Internal ...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers attending the 96th Annual Meeting of t...
By Diane Lofshult
Eating fish on a regular basis can substantially lower levels of inflammation associated with heart disease risk, according to a study that appeared in the July 5 issue of th...
By Diane Lofshult
Fitness professionals have long suspected that a client’s attitude and belief system can make or break any serious attempt to lose unwanted pounds. A recent study on ov...
By Diane Lofshult
Ironman® wannabes, take note: Zinc may provide a winning edge when it comes to achieving your optimal physical performance. According to a study published i...
By Diane Lofshult
Anyone concerned about the escalating rise in obesity among children should take a gander at the February issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, which is d...
By Diane Lofshult
In a brilliant bit of marketing, produce manufacturers are now offering a veritable cornucopia of healthy convenience products for today’s busy kids (and even busier par...
By Diane Lofshult
This spring, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) unveiled a new food pyramid designed to fit Americans like a glove. According to an April 19 USDA press release, MyPyram...
By Diane Lofshult
Recent studies have extolled the virtues of different varieties of tea, which contains powerful antioxidants that can ward off cancer and heart disease. But most studies to...
By Diane Lofshult
By Diane Lofshult
Group fitness instructors reveal the businessrelated purchases that gave them the biggest bang for their buck in terms of career success.
It has been said t...
By Diane Lofshult
Short-term trials involving the dietary supplement conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) have suggested that it may reduce body fat mass (BFM) and increase lean body mass. Howev...
By Diane Lofshult
Past experimental and epidemiological studies have suggested that vitamin E supplementation may prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, most of these studies h...
By Diane Lofshult
Women experiencing the symptoms of menopause may want to increase their daily intake of soy protein, according to the findings of a study published in The American...
By Diane Lofshult
A recent study by British researchers found that regular use of high-performance sports drinks can corrode teeth enamel and cause extensive dental damage. Reporting in the...
By Diane Lofshult
Kids who up their consumption of milk aren’t necessarily going to strengthen their bones, according to a new study published in the March 3, 2005, issue of Pediatri...
By Diane Lofshult
A new study conducted by the Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA) indicates that consumers are buying more nutritious foods than in the past—and the food industry is...
By Diane Lofshult
Research has shown that an extract found in apples contains strong antioxidant properties that can inhibit cancer growth. Now a recent study has found that the phytochemicals ...
By Diane Lofshult
Studies have shown that higher intakes of fish can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, until recently, scientists were uncertain whether eatin...
By Diane Lofshult
In our April issue, we reported on revisions to the federal dietary guidelines, which are updated every 5 years to reflect current scientific knowledge. But a little knowl...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to preventing cancer, green tea should be your cup of tea. Researchers reported in the December 1, 2004, issue of Cancer Research that compounds in green tea c...
By Diane Lofshult
Chitosan is a primary ingredient in many of the dietary we...
By Diane Lofshult
19% = the number of overweight people who would risk death to be thin.
33% = the number of obese people who would risk their life to lose 10 pounds.
4% = the number o...
By Diane Lofshult
A study published in the journal NeuroImage is lending wei...
By Diane Lofshult
Serve this fiber-rich entrée over a whole-grain side dish, like brown rice, barley, bulgur or quinoa.
2 (15- or 19-ounce) cans of white kidney beans,
drained and ...
By Diane Lofshult
A lot of baking recipes call for superfine sugar, which is typically found in the alcohol section of the supermarket (it is a key ingredient in certain cocktails). Howev...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to get your family or clients to eat more of the healthy green stuff? Test out these simple toppings on any fresh or frozen veggie dishes:
Orange-Sesame Drizzle. Whisk ...
By Diane Lofshult
Infants who are regularly fed oranges and bananas before age ...
By Diane Lofshult
Scientists have identified a possible link between attention- deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and insufficient iron stores in children. According to a report published ...
By Diane Lofshult
Looking for a fun-packed cyber source to encourage healthy habits in your children? Check out KidsHealth for Kids (www.kidshealth.org/kid/index.jsp). This health- oriente...
By Diane Lofshult
More and more manufacturers are touting their new and impr...
By Diane Lofshult
A consumer watchdog group that conducted an independent evaluation of different popular nutrition bars is urging the public to “know your bar” before indulging. A...
By Diane Lofshult
Are you trying to avoid red meat but getting sick of dinners that feature chicken or fish as the protein mainstay? You may want to consider tofu, a dietary staple in Asian...
By Diane Lofshult
Peeling a hot potato can be a daunting task. Try this tip:
Spear the hot potato with a fork, and then hold onto the fork with one hand while peeling the potato with the oth...
By Diane Lofshult
Bone mineral density (BMD) during adolescence has been found to be key to preventing osteoporosis later in life. According to the World Health Association, osteoporosis, a bri...
By Diane Lofshult
Despite the plethora of diet books available today, there is a scarcity of scientific research on the health effects of popular eating plans. To assess how well four o...
By Diane Lofshult
Although mothers today commonly opt to breastfeed their babies, many infants are still fed formula. Now, a study published online in Pediatric Research last December suggest...
By Diane Lofshult
The U.S. government ushered in the new year with a brand-new set of food and exercise suggestions for the American public. The guidelines form the basis of recommendations the...
By Diane Lofshult
A novel study involving people and their dogs found that buddying with Buddy may increase your chance of losing weight. Sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, the People...
By Diane Lofshult
According to a new wave of diet books, the latest weight loss aid will leave you feeling as though you were on a tropical island. That’s because the centerpiece ...
By Diane Lofshult
The recipe for this quick and easy appetizer can be doubled to serve as an entrée.
1 tablespoon (tbs) olive oil
3 1/2 cups thinly sliced fennel bulb
1/4 teaspoon ...
By Diane Lofshult
On November 1, 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it had approved a rare qualified health claim that olive oil can reduce the risk of co...
By Diane Lofshult
Trying to cut down on sugar, fat and calories, but not wanting to sacrifice flavor? Then get ready for flavor enhancers like Senomyx®, which food manufacturers are prepari...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the November 2004 issue of Consumer Reports on Health, the following foods just may be your prescription for some common ailments:
Bad Breath. A touch of cinnam...
By Diane Lofshult
For the past decade, many health-conscious consumers have upped their intake of vitamin E in an attempt to prevent diseases and increase longevity. Now a new study has found...
By Diane Lofshult
Men who increase their intake of whole-grain foods appear to have a hedge against weight gain, according to a study published in the November 2004 issue of The Americ...
By Diane Lofshult
Gaining weight during childhood apparently takes a heavy toll on future heart health. According to a report in the November 23, 2004, issue of Circulation: Journal of the Amer...
By Diane Lofshult
Lutein, a nutrient found in green vegetables, is thought to protect against common eye conditions such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, both of which cause ...
By Diane Lofshult
Food experts often recommend including colorful fruits and veggies in everyday meals to add both visual interest and more healthy foods. Here is a breakdown—by color...
By Diane Lofshult
Breastfeeding a baby can be a wonderful experience. In addition to providing an infant with the essential nutrients in breast milk, nursing is a great way to create a str...
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to rating diet books, Tufts University is a tough critic. The university has panned everyone from Dr. Phil to Dr. Atkins, while snubbing the Zone and South B...
By Diane Lofshult
Healthy foods are no longer the exclusive domain of humans. Man’s best friend can also benefit from eating fruits and vegetables.
According to animal expert an....
By Diane Lofshult
A team of researchers from Duke University has suggested that caffeine may interfere with the body’s ability to control blood sugar levels, thus worsening type ...
By Diane Lofshult
We all know that getting adequate calcium during childhood is essential to building strong teeth and bones. But what effect does a calcium-rich diet have on weight gain in y...
By Diane Lofshult
Women who eat large amounts of carbohydrates with a high glycemic load may be at much higher risk for developing colon cancer, according to a study that appeared in the Februa...
By Diane Lofshult
Older people who want to live longer and healthier lives would benefit greatly by adhering to a Mediterranean-style diet, says a report in the Journal of the American Med...
By Diane Lofshult
Any cook who has ever tried to guess how many asparagus spears equal a pound when a scale is not available knows how hard this can be. (Try stuffing a measuring cup with those...
By Diane Lofshult
For some time now, researchers have been extolling the virtues of functional foods, those whole, fortified, enhanced and enriched foods that provide health benefits beyon...
By Diane Lofshult
Looking for a nutrient-dense food that is healthy, requires no cooking or cleanup, can be eaten on the run and appeals to kids? Then consider yogurt, which satisfies all of th...
By Diane Lofshult
Although this recipe is quick and easy, you can save even more time by using minced garlic from a jar and/or frozen mixed vegetables!
1 tablespoon (tbs) extra-virgin olive...
By Diane Lofshult
Are you having trouble waking up on these cold, dreary mornings? Have your clients seemed more lethargic or grouchy during training sessions lately? Do your students complain ...
By Diane Lofshult
With so many children today at risk for obesity, where can concerned parents and health professionals get credible advice on how to instill healthy food and exercise habit...
By Diane Lofshult
Even as dietitians are urging kids to give up soft drinks, another group of researchers is waiting in the wings with a replacement carbonated product called Fizzy Fruit™...
By Diane Lofshult
Broccoli is far richer in vitamins and minerals - especially vitamins A, C, and D - than cauliflower.
By Diane Lofshult
That’s the advice from researchers
in the United Kingdom who recently reviewed the body of scientific literature on the effectiveness of dietary supplements in losing ...
By Diane Lofshult
If you had ever told me that I would look forward to cleaning dog kennels on my days off, I would have thought you were one sick puppy. Yet that’s exactly what I rush of...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers reporting in the August issue of Pediatrics say that a large percentage of pediatricians fail to identify and treat early signs of obesity in their young patients.
By Diane Lofshult
Ever wonder how chefs in fancy restaurants produce those
tantalizing slivers of carrots and celery that top your salad?
By Diane Lofshult
Are you one of the 1–2 million Americans who are gluten-intolerant and need to avoid products that contain wheat? If so, you may want to investigate a whole grain known ...
By Diane Lofshult
Food poisoning can fell the best of us when and where we least expect it.
By Diane Lofshult
Serve this tasty chutney
as a dip or as a topping for
whole grains, steamed veggies,
chicken, fish or tofu.
4 cups diced cantaloupe
(about 1 melon)
1⁄3 cup go...
By Diane Lofshult
When first diagnosed with cancer, many people feel helpless about their ability to fight the disease. In addition to trying conventional therapies like radiation and chemother...
By Diane Lofshult
According to a recent scientific advisory
issued by the American Heart Association (AHA), there is no justification to fork over money for expensive antioxidant dietary supp...
By Diane Lofshult
Would it surprise you to learn that food bought and consumed in the office setting is now a multimillion dollar enterprise?
By Diane Lofshult
Want to give your daughters or young female clients a boost in life?
By Diane Lofshult
Two new articles in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association examined the factors that influence kids’ beverage selection at home and at scho...
By Diane Lofshult
Severe mineral and vitamin shortages are
the cause of a worldwide decrease in brainpower, says a report issued this past spring by the United Nations Children’s Fund (...
By Diane Lofshult
Sweet news for parents trying to help their kids cut back on sugar: A leading candy manufacturer has announced plans to reduce the number of calories and sugar in some of its ...
By Diane Lofshult
What will health care look like in the near future?
What impact will the Baby Boomer generation have on
tomorrow’s medical policies and priorities? Where will
the ...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers may have uncovered a seemingly small behavior that could make a big difference in childhood weight gain: starting the day with a simple, ready-to-eat cereal. Accor...
By Diane Lofshult
1⁄2 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon (tsp) olive oil
1⁄2 cup thinly sliced celery
1⁄2 cup thinly sliced carrot
1 tsp finely chopped garlic
1 can (28 ounces...
By Diane Lofshult
When the weather turns cold, many smart cooks turn to the comfort and convenience of their crock pot for hearty, healthy, one-dish meals. According to a study by Betty Crocker...
By Diane Lofshult
Tired of guessing if that avocado will be ripe or rock hard when you go to use it? Food experts say you should squeeze the fruit to judge ripeness; the flesh should yield to m...
By Diane Lofshult
Women who are wanting to get pregnant should throw out their Atkins diet books along with their birth control pills, suggests new research presented at a June meeting of the E...
By Diane Lofshult
A study published in the July 7 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that milk may have a protective effect against colorectal cancer, most likely due t...
By Diane Lofshult
Having trouble finding blueberries in your favorite grocery store?
By Diane Lofshult
When it comes to calorie intake and longevity, less is proving to be more. Researchers recently compared 18 people who had followed a nutrition-dense, calorie-
restricted die...
By Diane Lofshult
Think your kindergartner is too young to worry about dieting? You might be surprised to learn that girls as young as 5 years old who dabble in dieting are at higher risk for f...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to boost your brain power? Make sure to load up your grocery cart with these 14 “brain foods,” shown here in alphabetical order: beans
blueberries
...
By Diane Lofshult
Although manufacturers are required to list trans fat content on Nutrition Facts Labels by January 1, 2006, many consumers will still need help translating
the new terminolo...
By Diane Lofshult
how to limit your
exposure to mad cow disease
With the first case of mad cow disease (bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or BSE) uncovered in the U.S. recently, several orga...
By Diane Lofshult
Food can be a real challenge for kids who are diabetic. Now a new book teaches diabetic kids how to take control of their diets and have fun in the process.
Cooking Up Fun fo...
By Diane Lofshult
Children who regularly skip breakfast are far more likely to have dental cavities, according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association. Int...
By Diane Lofshult
The national institutes of Health (NIH) recently released a 5-year strategic plan entitled "Promoting Quality Science in Dietary Supplement Research, Education and Communicati...
By Diane Lofshult
According to a study in the December 2003 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, children can reduce their body fat by 0.4% by simply adding one 8-ounce gl...
By Diane Lofshult
Proving that anybody can threaten to sue anybody over anything, a Wisconsin man recently sued his cable company for the 50 pounds his wife allegedly gained by watching too muc...
By Diane Lofshult
Aspartame, neotame, saccharin, sucralose. Do you know how these common sugar replacements differ? Or how they stack up in terms of nutrient quality against other sweeteners li...
By Diane Lofshult
Dietary supplements will now be subject to government scrutiny in Canada, under the country’s new Natural Products Regulation law. Products such as herbal remedies, vi...
By Diane Lofshult
Source: Health (January–February 2004).
question of the month:
What is the most common question your clients ask you about nutrition or weight
management?
Please s...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers recently evaluated data from 10 prospective cohort studies on different types of dietary fiber to determine their effect on heart disease risk. For every 10 g of f...
By Diane Lofshult
All types of fish suggested for this recipe from the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) are rich in healthful omega-3 fatty acids.
4 portions (4 ounces each)...
By Diane Lofshult
missing body
By Diane Lofshult
What’s red, green, black and sometimes white, but always healthy? The answer is “tea,” which is increasingly being hailed by scientists for its ability t...
By Diane Lofshult
Personalizing Postrehab Programs
With the medical community, consumers and even insurance companies recognizing the benefit of exercise conditioning after an injury, postreh...
By Diane Lofshult
Does this sound familiar? You just got home from the grocery store and are about to put away a week’s worth of carefully selected fresh fruits and vegetables. Sure, thes...
By Diane Lofshult
Want to increase your revenue stream in 2004 using the resources you already have at hand? Here’s a formula for success: One personal trainer plus several cl...
By Diane Lofshult
“Explore New Frontiers” was the theme of the 2003 American Dietetic Association (ADA) Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo held in San Antonio, Texas, th...
By Diane Lofshult
Wondering what the future holds for careers in the fitness industry? According to a recent government report, job prospects for fitness professionals will be more favorable in...
By Diane Lofshult
Is your kid coming down with a cold? Do you think that herbal remedies offer a safer, more effective approach than traditional cold medications? Well, you might want to th...
By Diane Lofshult
Kickboxing continues to be popular among consumers, but fitness professionals have long been concerned about the rate of injuries in classes.
Although researchers have studi...
By Diane Lofshult
While Congress is reviewing a proposal that restaurants be required to publish nutrition information on their menus, consumers now have a new tool in their arsenal to make inf...
By Diane Lofshult
With obesity on the rise among our nation’s children, we need to do everything we can to underscore the importance of physical activity in childhood. One way to do t...
By Diane Lofshult
Because today’s kids are spending more and more time glued to the computer (see related story on this page), some Web-savvy experts advise using the computer to en...
By Diane Lofshult
Wonder where all those computers and video games purchased during the holidays will end up? According to a new study conducted by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, ma...
By Diane Lofshult
Curious about which cities in the United States have the most health club members? According to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), the...
By Diane Lofshult
Metabolic syndrome is a collection of health risks that increase an individual’s chances of developing heart disease, stroke and diabetes. These health risks include exc...
By Diane Lofshult
Fitness facility managers, you may want to think before outfitting your group exercise room with floor-to-ceiling mirrors on the wall: Doing so may lead your members to be...
By Diane Lofshult
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) was recently granted accreditation for all its fitness certification programs by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)....
By Diane Lofshult
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) was recently granted accreditation for all its fitness certification programs by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NC...
By Diane Lofshult
Programs Wanted!
Have you created an innovative new program that you would like to share with our readers? We are currently looking for group fitness instructors and pers...
By Diane Lofshult
Ever wonder about the reliability and accuracy of those pedometers that more and more walkers are sporting these days? Well, so did a group of researchers who recently...
By Diane Lofshult
Saddled with a growing number of at-risk employees who are overweight or obese, more companies are recognizing the importance of preventive health measures. Toward that en...
By Diane Lofshult
If you’ve noticed recently that some of your clients are looking a little “nipped and tucked,” it’s probably not your imagination. According to
resea...
By Diane Lofshult
Take one dose of vitamin E daily and exercise regularly. That’s the prescription for staying young and healthy, according to a new study that appeared in the July is...
By Diane Lofshult
U.S. government agencies are teaming with the Canadian federal health department to combat fraudulent health claims on the Internet. The campaign—part law enforcement, p...
By Diane Lofshult
There have been several new developments in the ongoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) debate:
A recent study found that estrogen-progestin medications can cause an...
By Diane Lofshult
Ever wonder about the reliability and accuracy of those pedometers that more and more walkers are sporting these days? Well, so did a group of researchers who recently compare...
By Diane Lofshult
We’ve all been told that what we eat for breakfast can have a profound effect on our energy levels for the rest of the day. Now the American Institute for Cancer Res...
By Diane Lofshult
1. fitness walking
2. stretching
3. treadmill exercise
4. golf
5. freshwater fishing
6. recreational vehicle camping
7. training with free weights
(hand weights)
...
By Diane Lofshult
Today’s older adults are a frisky and diversified bunch, according to a recent poll conducted by the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association. Here’s a loo...
By Diane Lofshult
Although many people have adopted a vegetarian diet as part of an overall healthy lifestyle, this kind of diet may actually be a marker for detecting eating disorders in some...
By Diane Lofshult
While most women’s magazines are reporting on the latest fall fashions,
fitness apparel and athletic footwear are also making headlines. The Sporting Goods Manufactur...
By Diane Lofshult
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. But what if your favorite man’s waist circumference is expanding, putting his health at risk? A new stu...
By Diane Lofshult
Despite recent news reports linking high cholesterol levels to different life-threatening diseases, the message has apparently been lost on many consumers. At least, t...
By Diane Lofshult
This year marks the 18th anniversary of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) campaign. Fitness professionals can use this occasion to get the word out to...
By Diane Lofshult
Trends
By Diane Lofshult
Today's Sports Conditioning Classes Got Game!
Looking for a new profit center that attracts well-heeled elite athletes and recreational sports enthu...
By Diane Lofshult
One of the reasons you joined IDEA was to find out what others in the industry are doing. Each year IDEA conducts an annual survey of the most innovative fitness professio...
By Diane Lofshult
As we go to press, a new disease called “severe acute respiratory syndrome” (SARS) is frustrating public health officials worldwide. First identified in Asia, ...
By Diane Lofshult
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is launching a new study to assess the effectiveness and safety of St. John’s Wort for the treatment of minor depression. The 4-y...
By Diane Lofshult
Studies like the one reported above underscore why fitness professionals need to get involved in combating childhood obesity through grassroots community efforts designed to g...
By Diane Lofshult
In February, Congress finalized a 20 percent increase in funding for the Physical Education for Progress program, since renamed the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers know that 1 in 7 kids today is obese, yet few studies have measured how obesity affects a child’s quality of life. Now, a new study in the April 9 issue of t...
By Diane Lofshult
For the third straight year, athletic footwear sales have increased, according to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) International’s 2003 edition of...
By Diane Lofshult
In yet another blow for women hoping to improve their quality of life after menopause, researchers have found that a popular hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has no effect on...
By Diane Lofshult
Cancer rates worldwide are expected to increase by 50 percent to 15 million new cases over the next 20 years, according to the newly released World Cancer Report, published by...
By Diane Lofshult
As we go to press with this issue, images of the war in Iraq have been a constant presence in our lives. From newspaper headlines read at the breakfast table to nightl...
By Diane Lofshult
It wasn’t that long ago that only the most cutting-edge health clubs offered yoga classes. Now, programming schedules are rife with yoga offerings for people at all fitn...
By Diane Lofshult
It has been only 2 years since IDEA began tracking the popularity of core conditioning classes versus conventional abdominals classes on our annual Fitness Programs & Equi...
By Diane Lofshult
Most industries nowadays recognize the incredible buying power of teenagers and go out of their way to appeal to this demographic. Not so the fitness industry, which in the pa...
By Diane Lofshult
W
What today's most innovative program directors predict your members will be asking for in the future.
By Dia n e L o fshul t
GROUP FITNESS
Trendwatch
The world has changed...
By Diane Lofshult
For years, physicians and medical organizations have been espousing the benefits of annual mammograms as one way women can take charge of their health. Then in October 2001, a...
By Diane Lofshult
Despite a setback in the national economy, fitness facilities in this country are in good health. According to IHRSA, the total number of U.S. health clubs and fitness centers...
By Diane Lofshult
. . . a new investigation—spearheaded by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration—that questions the safety of kava, an herbal sedative taken to relieve anxiety, stre...
By Diane Lofshult
Researchers at the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) think they may have uncovered one reason why overweight, inactive individuals have a higher risk for many canc...
By Diane Lofshult
ACSM has issued a new Position Stand advising fitness professionals on the proper way to add load or resistance to an existing weight training regimen. “Progression Mode...
By Diane Lofshult
Since we last reported on automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in a Special Report that appeared in our March issue, several new developments have taken place. In the Marc...
By Diane Lofshult
Do you know your target blood pressure? If you do, you are in the minority. Even when this question was posed to those who are hypertensive and most need to control their bloo...
By Diane Lofshult
Curious as to what you will be serving in the year to come? According to a recent report in the San Diego Union-Tribune, nutrition experts are forecasting that the following f...
By Diane Lofshult
Since 1995, the fitness industry has been changing its profile in Norway. Many new and more exclusive clubs have arrived. The marketing of these clubs to consumers has also ch...
By Diane Lofshult
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls account for the highest number of accidental injury deaths in adults 65 years and older. To address this con...
By Diane Lofshult
The body of research has shown that soybean protein and other dietary fiber can help reduce serum cholesterol levels, which increase the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). ...
By Diane Lofshult
Our sixth annual report on what today's cuttingedge program directors are planning for tomorrow-- and why you should be, too!
Group Fitness Trendwatch 2001
Now that the econo...
