The Department of Food Science Research at the University of Otago in New Zealand has linked our consumption of raw fruits and vegetables to our mental health. A total of 281 young adults completed an internet-based daily food diary for 21 consecutive days. Researchers concluded participates consuming a higher intake of raw produce (5 times per day) had fewer symptoms of mental illness or depression, and improved levels of well being or satisfaction with life. After eating canned or processed produce, the mental health benefits were significantly reduced. Foods Associated With Better Mood Researchers particularly mentioned carrots bananas apples spinach These foods displayed significant benefits towards your mental health, as…
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Reducing Cancer Risks with Food
It is National Fruit and Vegetables Month and new cancer research just released, affirms a long-held theory that what foods we eat directly influences our health. Since you may not want to read the 12,000-page report, nor the 100-page summary compiled by the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research; here it is in a nutshell… Eat your vegetables Don’t gain excess weight Avoid excess alcohol & processed meats Be active The Continuous Update Project is the world’s largest source of scientific research on cancer preventative and survivor-ship through diet, nutrition, and physical activity. CUP has compiled global research and released its 3rd expert report. The 2nd…
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Should We Worry About Lycopene in Our Food?
At a loyal reader’s request, I am taking a look at Lycopene in our food and if it can benefit a healthy lifestyle. Subscriber, Renee G said, “LYCOPENE: I would love to know what foods have it, how the body uses it, and if there is research showing effects on skin cancer rates.” What is Lycopene? (Lie-co-peen) – is a chemical compound that gives some vegetables and fruits, their vibrant color. Found in watermelons, pink grapefruits, apricots, guava, papaya, and red oranges; and particularly high amounts in tomatoes and tomato products. In North America, 85% of dietary lycopene comes from tomato products such as tomato juice or paste. One…
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Top 5: Fiber Options To Remedy Your Deficiency
The United States Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture designed the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines to help Americans eat a healthier diet and improve their overall eating habits. It offers key recommendations with specific nutritional targets and dietary limits. Americans’ social and economic cultures have resulted in unhealthy eating habits. The recommended daily intake of dietary fiber is 25 grams of fiber for women and 38 grams for men. Yet, most Americans consume less than half of the recommended daily fiber intake and have become one of our most significant dietary deficiencies. Over time, a deficiency in dietary fiber can increase the possibility of developing…
