Sue's Healthy News Blog2008-05-09T16:44:06ZSue Roberts sue@youronlinenutritionist.comCopyright 2008, Sue Roberts sue@youronlinenutritionist.comSPHPBLOGHow to find healthy restaurant menu items All you need is your cell phone.
What makes this service so handy is that you can find out the nutritional content of menu items while you are in the restaurant reading the menu and trying to decide what to order. Now that's efficient.
You got it:WINK:
How does it work?
Simply send a text message to 878787 with the words "diet" + "restaurant name" + "menu item" and presto...nutritional info right at your fingertips.
Did I mention that the service is FREE?
The same information can also be accessed from your Mac or PC...just go to Wellternatives. There you can also search the complete list of restaurants that have the nutritional content of their foods accessible.
Think you'll try it? If you do, be sure and post a comment and tell us about your experience.
Bon appetit'!
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080507-1222132008-05-07T00:00:00Z2008-05-07T00:00:00ZAnother nationwide meat recall Used in products such as burritos and chicken salads, the affected brands include Jan's and Archer Farms, in addition to Gourmet Boutique.
No illnesses have been reported thus far, but please be on the lookout for any suspected foods in your refrigerator. Listeria contamination can cause serious, even fatal complications especially in people with compromised immune systems. Pregnant women are also at high risk.
Read more about the recall here.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080505-1025472008-05-05T00:00:00Z2008-05-05T00:00:00ZAre you taking one of these dietary supplements? If you take one of these supplements and are experiencing fatigue, low blood sugar, hyperactivity or muscle cramping you may be affected. High intakes of these trace minerals can also cause liver and kidney problems, so please see your doctor immediately.
The FDA also wants to be informed about people who are affected, so contact them through the MedWatch program at 800-FDA-1088 or online at www.fda.gov/medwatch/how.htm.
For more information on this, click here.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080502-0853292008-05-02T00:00:00Z2008-05-02T00:00:00ZAnother reason to eat those leafy greens That's what a recently reported study from Spain found.
Researchers there examined the diets of 617 adult men and women, half who had lung cancer and half who didn't. Their results showed that those subjects who ate their leafy greens at least once a day had a lower risk of developing lung cancer than those who ate them less than 5 times per week.
Interestingly enough, this result was even true for those individuals who had smoked in the past.
One more reason to go for the greens!]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080501-0912032008-05-01T00:00:00Z2008-05-01T00:00:00ZCan a nutrition expert help? Maybe you are a dieting veteran, trying all the latest fads promising quick results only to end disappointed when all your efforts don't pan out the way you had hoped.
Perhaps you have thought about consulting a nutrition expert for help, yet you are unsure how to proceed. What holds you back? Are you afraid they'll put you on some plan where you'll feel hungry all the time? Maybe you're afraid some of your favorite foods will be prohibited.
Here's a suggestion for you. Don't let your fears stop you from getting the help and encouragement you need.
Where to start? Check out a person's background and credentials carefully before swallowing any advice hook, line and sinker! They may, or may not, know what they are talking about.
Click on the link below to read a recent article from a Dallas newspaper on how to recognize a nutrition expert...you'll be glad you did.
Consumers have reported finding bits of glass and plastic in the products.
Here is a link to the press release to read more about it:
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/st ... 03_08.html]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080402-0918212008-04-02T00:00:00Z2008-04-02T00:00:00ZCheck these out...Thin for Life, a book which describes the real life strategies that people who have been successful at losing weight use to make sure the weight stays off for good.
Her newest book, Weight Loss Confidential, has a similar theme, although it deals strictly with teens. A companion journal to the book is available, too. Click on the links below to view a couple of short videos in which Anne and a number of her teen clients discuss their weight loss journeys:
What do you think? I'd love to hear your comments on these...]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080326-1159232008-03-26T00:00:00Z2008-03-26T00:00:00ZCalling all Honduran cantaloupes... Keep in mind that any cut cantaloupe used in fruit trays or bowls is on the suspect list, too.
Here are two links with further information; one from MSNBC and the other from the FDA:
http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/charlie03_08.html ]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080324-1436232008-03-24T00:00:00Z2008-03-24T00:00:00ZThis is so incredible you won't believe it! Take the following, for example. The president of the American Dietetic Association has a DOG that is a member in good standing of the American Association of Nutritional Consultants. Yes, I did say DOG.
Anybody can sound like they are a nutrition expert, not everybody is.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080320-1111002008-03-20T00:00:00Z2008-03-20T00:00:00ZPicture food journaling If you take you cell phone with you everywhere, you are in luck! This service makes it easy to keep a food journal...
For more information on signing up for this service, click here.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080313-0850372008-03-13T00:00:00Z2008-03-13T00:00:00ZDon't go it aloneJournal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that weight loss is more successful long term when a person gets monthly help and support from a nutrition counselor.
This can be as little as a 10 -15 minute phone conversation! Just enough to just keep you on the right track.
Bottom line...don't go it alone! Yes it may cost you alittle to get professional guidance, but wouldn't you rather keep the weight off than re-gain it again?
That sounds cheaper in the long run to me! :HAPPY:
You can read the original study in JAMA here, or a summary article in USA Today here.
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080312-0916032008-03-12T00:00:00Z2008-03-12T00:00:00ZYour brain on Krispy Kremes Read the release (with the same title) about some interesting new research.
What do you think?]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080307-1102172008-03-07T00:00:00Z2008-03-07T00:00:00ZThis is just unbelieveable... What is going on? This time the culprit is Salmonella, or should I say potential Salmonella contamination associated with Aunt Jemima Pancake and Waffle Mix, the original, original complete and the buttermilk complete varieties.
Check your cupboards for any 2 or 5 pound boxes with "Best Before" dates between Feb 8 - 16, 2009.
Here's the consumer toll free number to find out all the details: 1-800-407-2247.
This recall does not include any other Aunt Jemima products.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080305-1118052008-03-05T00:00:00Z2008-03-05T00:00:00ZAnother dietary supplement disaster If so, have you heard about the $23.3 million lawsuit against the manufacturer for false advertising?
Check out the info here...you may be eligible for a refund!]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080304-1050422008-03-04T00:00:00Z2008-03-04T00:00:00ZWhat Can a Dentist Teach You? Dr. Joe Capista has just released a new book, not about nutrition specifically, although there is a chapter devoted to the importance of health and fitness. His book..."What Can a Dentist Teach You about Business, Life and Success?" addresses dreams, goals and achievement...the "inner game" of choosing a healthy lifestyle.
Order you own copy of What Can a Dentist Teach You about Business, Life and Success? within the next 24 hours and receive over $2,551 in bonus gifts from experts around the globe. Go to http://www.joecapista.com/amazon.htm]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080304-0922242008-03-04T00:00:00Z2008-03-04T00:00:00ZNeed some motivation for losing weight?motivation to keep your focused on losing weight?
Well, here's a new approach.
A music CD just for dieters. You can check out the details in the following news story:
What do you think? Is it worth trying?]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080222-1000032008-02-22T00:00:00Z2008-02-22T00:00:00ZIn case you haven't heard... http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080217/ap_ ... ouse_abuse
Looks like most of the beef involved was used for school lunch programs or in fast food restaurants. At this point there doesn't appear to be a major public health threat, but be sure and check the source of any beef you may have in your fridge or freezer. If in doubt where it came from, pitch it!]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080218-1651412008-02-18T00:00:00Z2008-02-18T00:00:00ZGot energy?a conversation between the couple in front of me. The woman turned to her companion and said, "I am feeling so tired." The reply back was, "Here you go, try one of these," as her friend reached over and grabbed a Red Bull from the nearby refrigerated case.
Does this sound familiar?
Have you gotten into the habit of reaching for that "instant energy" when you are feeling run down and out of steam?
I ran across an article about energy drinks that was pretty enlightening. Its a good summary, so rather than just repeat the information for you, here's the link so you can read all the details yourself:
Bottom line: Try a nap :)]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080201-1755092008-02-02T00:00:00Z2008-02-02T00:00:00ZWhat's your supplement IQ? If you do, you are in a minority, according to a recent survey reported on in the following article:
Add your opinion as a comment...why do you think this confusion exists and can be done about it?]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080118-1301032008-01-18T00:00:00Z2008-01-18T00:00:00ZNow this sounds like a great New Year's resolution! How about adding one more?
Try living 14 years longer.
Doesn't sound bad, does it? Well, if the results of a recently published study are accurate you may be able to do just that.
You can read the summary of the article on msnbc.com, or access the complete study here.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry080108-1049512008-01-08T00:00:00Z2008-01-08T00:00:00ZYou can survive the holidays without gaining weightnervous, make you wonder if you can make it through till January without gaining weight, I'm here to tell you that you can.
Yes, you really can.
Its going to take some thinking, some planning, some preparation, but you can do it. You can stay true to your healthy eating and weight loss goals during this season...a season when most people are overindulging (and often feeling sluggish and gross afterwards).
First, and probably most important, is to make time for yourself!
Schedule in "me" time on your daily calendar.
Remember that in spite of all the glorious culinary delights you will find yourself facing this month, January still comes.
Close your eyes for a minute and think about January.
Imagine that the holidays are over.
Will this year be like others in the past?
Do you usually have to crash diet or join some fad program to try and lose all the weight you gained since Thanksgiving?
How will you feel about yourself once this season has come and gone?
Treat yourself well during this time of year by reigning in the overindulging so there aren't the regrets come January.
If you are looking for weight loss support come January, be sure and sign up for my FREE teleclass, "7 Secrets to Weight Loss Success" which will be held on Jan. 3. For all the details, go to http://www.youronlinenutritionist.com/n ... truth.html]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071207-1224082007-12-07T00:00:00Z2007-12-07T00:00:00ZAdding omega-3s... Here's another alternative.
Healthy Harvest pasta will now be manufactured with omega-3s added.
Click here for a short announcement about the new product line.
Don't know the details yet on how much a serving of Ronzoni's whole wheat pasta will contain, but it will be interesting to find out.
I'll keep you posted.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071206-1048482007-12-06T00:00:00Z2007-12-06T00:00:00ZSmall is Big (yes, you read that right) Check out the story by clicking on the link below:
It appears that FINALLY the message has gotten through that big is not always better when it comes to food.
Wonder if the fast food chains will follow suit?
What do you think?]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071129-1445322007-11-29T00:00:00Z2007-11-29T00:00:00ZReal food now...check it out Check it out by clicking here.
This was created and produced by freerangestudios.com]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071126-1637562007-11-26T00:00:00Z2007-11-26T00:00:00ZMetabolife in trouble...big time Take the latest example from the weight loss industry...Metabolife.
Michael Ellis, former president and founder of Metabolife International has been found guilty of lieing to the FDA.
What about?
Apparently the company had received thousands of complaints regarding their supplement that contained ephedra, but Ellis instead told the FDA they hadn't received any complaints.
Particularly when it comes to supplements, its buyer beware!]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071116-1136192007-11-16T00:00:00Z2007-11-16T00:00:00ZHow big is big? Ponder these outrageous (but true) examples*:
- In the 1970's, 7-11 stores sold soda pop in 12 and 20 ounce sizes. In 1988 they introduced the Double Gulp which was ½ gallon (64 ounces)!
- In 1954, Burger King sold one size of French fries, called regular at 2.6 ounces, today that's the small size. How about the king at 6.8 ounces!
- Get this one...Starbuck's originally offered a "Short" 8 ounce coffee, which is no longer sold. Now your choices are Tall (12 oz), Grande (16 oz) or Venti (20 oz).
- Think about this one...in 1984, the recipe for Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies on the bags of Nestle's chocolate chips made 100 cookies. Three years later, in 1987, the exact same recipe only made 60 cookies!
Need more convincing? Click on the following links to take 2 short quizzes which will test your knowledge of portion size. Try your hand at guessing the calories contained in some of these foods... you'll be surprised!
How often do you see the words "Super size", "Value-sized", "King size", "Jumbo-sized" or just plain "Big" and think you are getting a great deal?
All of these certainly give the impression that bigger is better, don't they?
It all comes down to what your description of better is...MORE FOOD for the money, or MORE CALORIES for the money?
Chew on that one for awhile!
*Source: The Portion Teller by Lisa Young.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071113-1203492007-11-13T00:00:00Z2007-11-13T00:00:00ZWeight Loss Made Simple Here is your answer!
Weight Loss Made Simple: 7 Secrets to Success 45 minute audio /MP3 download $15.99
Click here to purchase.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071107-1526322007-11-07T00:00:00Z2007-11-07T00:00:00ZOh yes, and don't forget the frozen pizza This time its frozen pizza from General Mills. Several varieties of both Tortinos and Jeno's may be contaminated with E.coli.
View the complete list and what to do about it here.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071105-1046142007-11-05T00:00:00Z2007-11-05T00:00:00ZIs it really possible? More beef recalled... Cargill is the latest company to join those that have had to recall beef because of possible E.coli contamination.
Click here for all the details.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071105-1039052007-11-05T00:00:00Z2007-11-05T00:00:00ZAnother reason to get your kids off the couch... But, according to a study reported on at a recent Obesity Society meeting, daily exercise may also fire up kids' brain power.
You can read about the study in this USA Today article, here.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071102-0931032007-11-02T00:00:00Z2007-11-02T00:00:00ZWhat to do for that candy hangover... Cheer up...its not the end of the world, and certainly not the end of your healthy eating.
Understandably though, you may be starting to think about the upcoming holiday season, and how easy it is to pack on a few pounds at this time of year.
Did you know that keeping a record of everything you eat (called a food record or food journal) is one of the most effective things you can do to keep from overindulging?
That's right. Simply being aware of what you are eating, keeping track of it helps curb the overeating.
There is a very easy, convenient way to keep a food journal, too, by using your cell phone camera or digital camera. Simply "click" on what you eat, and send the picture to your very own webpage, which I can then peek at and offer some helpful suggestions to optimize what you're eating.
Its really a fun tool. And very affordable with a monthly plan. You even have the option to get video feedback from me on a regular basis.
Check it out here. Be sure and contact me if you have any questions.
Act now...and prevent the holiday weight gain from getting catching you!]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071101-1218222007-11-01T00:00:00Z2007-11-01T00:00:00ZHappy Healthy HalloweenRDs Weigh In.
Remember, though, Halloween is a fun time so resist the temptation to turn it into just another occasion when you have to do without. Moderation and portion control are the keys to enjoying the day without letting it destroy your healthy eating intentions.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071031-1412022007-10-31T00:00:00Z2007-10-31T00:00:00ZE. coli strikes again Read all about it in yesterday's MSNBC article.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071026-1128072007-10-26T00:00:00Z2007-10-26T00:00:00ZChocolate 101 More than likely it involves chocolate!
Because of our love of this sweet treat, I thought you might find the following facts about it interesting...
Q: Where does chocolate come from?
A: Chocolate is made from beans which grow on cacao trees. After harvest, the beans are first removed from their pods, fermented, then dried and roasted and finally ground into cocoa liquor. From there the liquor is pressed into cocoa butter and cocoa cake. These are then ground to make cocoa powder.
Q: How long has chocolate been around?
A: Chocolate has been consumed for centuries, both as a medicine and as a food. The cacao bean and its products have been used as both spiritual and physical nourishment by many South American cultures. Its even been considered an aphrodisiac! (Sounds like a great reason to indulge......lol)
Q: Is it true that chocolate is really a health food?
A: You may have heard or read this somewhere, but actually that is only a half truth. Chocolate does contain important antioxidants known as flavonoids, which are part of a larger group known as polyphenols. Polyphenols can be found in a number of different foods, most notably tea, red wine and some fruits and vegetables. These antioxidants may help protect the body against damage normally caused by aging and chronic disease.
Be careful, though, because chocolate is not a calorically-free food, it contains saturated fat, sugar and caffeine.
Q: Can chocolate help your love life?
A: More than likely, no. Chocolate does contain a chemical called phenylethylamine (aka PEA) which is also found in the brain of people when they first fall in love. You may have heard that chocolate, through its PEA content, can turn on that warm fuzziness that just plain makes you feel good! Sadly, there is not enough PEA in a candy bar to do much good in this respect (darn!), but other foods such as salami and cheese contain even more.
Salami? An aphrodisiac?]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071026-1117172007-10-26T00:00:00Z2007-10-26T00:00:00ZDoes exercise cause overeating? According to a recent study presented at the Obesity Society meeting, for some individuals this may be the case.
What do you think? Do you eat more when you exercise more?
Be sure and post your opinion...this is a great topic for discussion! ]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071025-1004402007-10-25T00:00:00Z2007-10-25T00:00:00ZFight wrinkles with sugarwithout sugar.
Its true. Researchers now believe that high sugar intake throughout ones life can cause skin wrinkles.
Perhaps this will make you think twice before dipping into your Halloween treat bowl :sad]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071022-0844512007-10-22T00:00:00Z2007-10-22T00:00:00ZShould you dump your diet? If you are anything like me, its words like deprivation, depressing , drudgery, hardship or disappointing --- talk about negativity! No wonder diets don’t work…. they are so difficult!
So how does one lose weight? The first secret to ensuring weight loss success is to take some time to plan and prepare what you going to eat. That may be difficult to hear, but its true. Lasting change won’t happen unless you plan for it.
Planning seems so impractical in this “obesogenic” we live in. What do I mean by that? Everywhere you look there is food or an advertisement encouraging us to think about food and eat, eat, eat! As a result, it becomes second nature to overeat and gain weight as a result.
If we don’t think about what we’re going to eat ahead of time and plan our meals and snacks, we are then left at the mercy of these messages that come at us from all sides at all times of the day and night ---“ Taco Bell’s open late” or what is commonly heard in fast food restaurants, “For only 30 more cents you can supersize your order and get twice as much. What a deal!”
If we don’t prepare ahead and have some kind of plan to deal with these messages, then the sights, sounds and smells of food (that maybe we don’t even really want to eat) becomes just too much for us .
One thing that’s very helpful in planning is to prepare some lower calorie snacks that you can carry with you at all times-- put some in your desk drawer at work, in your purse, in your car --so that when you get hungry you’ve got something handy that you can snack on that will squash those hunger pangs.
What are some snacks that you could choose? Raisins and apricots or really any dried fruit are good choices. Did you know that now you can even buy an individually packaged dried plums? A couple or three of those make a wonderful snack that can kind help get you over the hump. Of course fresh fruit is an excellent option, too.
Small packaged bags of nuts or even a granola bar would work. Have you noticed how many varieties of granola bars are out there now on the market? Make sure and examine labels carefully, as some contain very few vitamins and minerals and usually loads of sugar. All Bran has some new ones that are relatively high in fiber and low in calories. Another tasty one is Country Choice Organic Oatmeal Squares. These are loaded with fiber, good taste and a relatively small amount of calories, however they are not sugar-free. By the time you finish eating the bar you feel satisfied, not like you’ve got to order some French fries at McDonald’s to get filled up!
Try not to go more than 3 or 4 hours without eating; plan the times for your meals and snacks. Research has shown that people who eat on a regular basis have an easier time with weight loss. You don’t have to eat large meals, maybe it’s only 500 calories every three or four hours. This way it’s easier to avoid high calorie binges, because you never allow yourself to become super hungry at any time during the day.
How many of you can relate to this—its Monday morning and you skip breakfast (thinking you’ll cut down on calories) before you head off to work. By midmorning your stomach is growling and you are so hungry you go out to get a drink of water at the fountain down the hall, and in the process pass by the employee break room. What's on the table but a nice, fresh box of Krispy Krème donuts … hard to resist even when you’re not hungry... but when you’re super hungry, it’s downright impossible to resist!
Now what would have the situation been like if you would have started the day with a nice filling breakfast ? (This doesn’t have to be a lot of calories, by the way.) Then when you see that box of Krispy Kremes they might not look quite so enticing. Granted, they will probably always look tempting, but it will be easier for you to pass them by because your stomach is not growling and you are not in such a terrible state of misery.
Planning ahead does pay off.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071019-0823052007-10-19T00:00:00Z2007-10-19T00:00:00ZDoes stress make you run to the fridge? Eating in response to stress often causes us to make poor food choices which usually lead to overeating which eventually results in weight gain.
Admittedly, this tends to really hit home for me. Even as a nutritionist I struggle with wanting something ooey, gooey and simply scumptious to eat when particularly stressed about something.
We learn from an early age to associate food with comfort and love, feeling good. Special occasions and holiday celebrations often revolve around food. Its natural, then, when stressed to run to food seeking the comfort of something delicious to eat.
Take a minute and think about some times in your life or situations where the amount of stress or distress that you were under caused you to over eat.
So what to do?
Well the answer really is to learn some other responses to stress that are not destructive to you, those that don't involve food.
This isn’t so easy and it will not happen overnight. Like anything else in life, learning new skills (which this really is, by the way) take some practice. It’s going to take some time.
First, go easy on yourself .
Next, spend some time thinking about something that you really really enjoy doing… something small and easy to do…like soaking in a long, hot bubble bath , relaxing on your deck with a spy or romance novel, taking a walk, playing the piano, listening to soothing music…whatever. Every individual is going to have their own activities, their own personal activities that tend to calm them, helping to relax them.
Here are a few more activities to try: • Practice relaxing every day. Sit quietly, breathe slowly and deeply, paying attention to each inhalation and exhalation. Clear your mind of unpleasant thoughts. • Keep a journal, writing about your deepest feelings • Take a short nap • Develop a support system of friends you can confide in when the going gets tough
What about preventing stress? The following suggestions may help: • Stop multitasking, and concentrate on one activity at a time • Learn to say “no”, recognizing your limitations. You do not have to be all things to all people • Find “me” time each day. Treat yourself to something special…a massage, a soothing bath, quiet time out in your garden • Get an adequate amount of sleep each night, at least 7 hours • Eat a well balanced diet
So now an assignment. (Merely reading this won’t help, action steps are necessary, too.) Take some time to think of three or four activities that you can easily do when you are under stress and that urge to eat becomes terrifically strong.
Follow through!
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071016-0907172007-10-16T00:00:00Z2007-10-16T00:00:00ZHave you heard about the pot pies? This time its pot pies from ConAgra, produced under both the Banquet and generic store brand labels. Both chicken and turkey pot pies have been implicated as the source of Salmonella poisoning, which has affected individuals across the US.
Check your freezer for any of these that you may have on hand..."P9" is the identifier found on the side of the packages.
Read more details from an article in the USA Todayhere.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071011-0800392007-10-11T00:00:00Z2007-10-11T00:00:00ZAlongside: Your Virtual Weight Loss Solution™ starts next week If so, you will be interested in this new weight loss program, Alongside: Your Virtual Weight Loss Solution™ starting Oct. 15th.
Its not a diet!
Hurry and take advantage of early bird pricing...until the 15th, save 51% off the regular price.
Pass it on...]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071008-1441552007-10-08T00:00:00Z2007-10-08T00:00:00ZAntioxidant supplements: yay or nay? But what actually are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are potential disease-fighters found naturally in some foods and also in synthetic supplements. They work by ridding the body of harmful free radicals, the "nasties" responsible for cellular destruction which may lead to a number of conditions such as heart disease and cancer.
Keep in mind that even though the media is big on antioxidant consumption (ever heard of "superfoods"?), the research on these is not conclusive. This means that some studies have pointed to the health benefits of antioxidants, while others haven't.
Take a recent example...a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. You may have heard about his one...researchers in Denmark reviewed thousands of clinical studies, omitting those which were poorly designed or had flawed conclusions. Their results pointed in the opposite direction of what you would think, stating that antioxidants may actually increase your risk of death!
Confusing to say the least!
What to believe? Its helpful to keep in mind that the results of one study alone are not sufficient proof, the whole body of research must be examined. That is what these Danish researchers attempted to do, but other scientists have disagreed with the conclusions they reached. One argument is that if antioxidants, especially supplements, were that harmful, we should have seen evidence of this in an increasing number of deaths.
We haven't.
Here's what I see as the bottom line now...there is insufficient reason to stop taking antioxidant supplements if you are currently doing so, with the exception of excessively large doses of vitamins or minerals which may be toxic at high levels.
At this point I don't feel comfortable recommending supplementation, though; there is just so much yet to be discovered in this area. I do recommend a diet with ample servings of fruits and vegetables, foods that are natural sources of antioxidants.
Here are some examples... Vitamin E is found in fortified cereals, nuts, seeds, avocados, peanut butter, wheat germ
Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, strawberries, cauliflower
Beta-carotene is found in the orange-colored fruits and vegetables such as carrots, cantaloupe, peaches, apricots, tomatoes, pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes.
Eat a wide variety each day and you can rest assured that you are getting a great supply of antioxidants.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071008-0832442007-10-08T00:00:00Z2007-10-08T00:00:00ZWhite chocolate woes Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include fever, diarrhea and stomach cramps. The severity of these may be worse, even fatal, in older adults or those with compromised immune systems.
Recalled packages have a UPC code of 0043000252200 with best-when-used-by dates of 31 March 2008 XCZ; 01 April 2008 XCZ; 02 April 2008 XCZ; and 03 April 2008 XCZ.
Read more about the recall in this Chicago Tribune article.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071005-1138102007-10-05T00:00:00Z2007-10-05T00:00:00ZVideo, cell phones and food Actually its a great one.
I think you'll agree, especially if you have ever tried to keep a food journal, logging everything in that you eat each day.
That recording process becomes tedious and boring after awhile, yet research has consistently shown that individuals who keep food records have higher rates of success with weight loss and changing their eating habits.
The folks at MyCa Nutrition have now made the process simpler, convenient, and down right fun to do.
How?
By using your phone to take pictures of what you eat and sending it to your own special web page where you can get feedback on how close you come to reaching your nutrition goals daily.
Click here to find out more about how MyFoodPhone works.
Plus, there is video feedback provided by nutrition professionals (like me) who have access to your "picture page". This allows for frequent, personalized encouragement and guidance. Email support is provided, too!
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071003-1623472007-10-03T00:00:00Z2007-10-03T00:00:00ZFood court 101 And for most of us that means plenty of trips to the mall, to get those special gifts for those on our holiday shopping lists.
With all that shopping comes more opportunities to eat out, the food court being a handy place to grab something to eat on the run.
Food at these spots is notoriously high in fat and calories, although there are ways to minimize the caloric damage!
Check out some of the healthy food court tips in this short article; you may find them helpful.
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry071002-1726512007-10-03T00:00:00Z2007-10-03T00:00:00Z7 secrets to weight loss success Armed with enough information and support, you CAN lose weight and keep it off permanently.
If you are ready to take action, and begin to see some long lasting changes in your weight, join me for a free teleclass,
"7 Secrets to Weight Loss Success" Thurs. Oct 4th 1 - 2pm PST (that's 4 - 5pm EST).
The call will be recorded, so if you can't make the live one, a link to the audio file will be emailed to you after the teleclass ends.
Either way, registration is required and you can do that here.
"See you" on the call!
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070928-1604452007-09-28T00:00:00Z2007-09-28T00:00:00ZEat whole grains to prevent weight gainEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that individuals who eat more whole grains are less likely to become overweight or obese than those who don't.
The Holland researchers are quick to point out that their study was not designed to show a cause and effect relationship between whole grain consumption and the probability of becoming overweight, but there does seem to be an association between the two.
Certainly more studies are needed to confirm this relationship, however this study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that whole grain consumption influences a person's propensity to become overweight.
You can read more about the study and its findings here.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070928-1243322007-09-28T00:00:00Z2007-09-28T00:00:00ZBeef patties recalled This time its frozen beef patties that were distributed in the Northeast by Topps Meat Company.
So far several individuals have been hospitalized as a result of eating the E. coli bacteria-contaminated patties. These people experienced intense stomach cramping and bloody diarrhea. In older adults or those with a compromised immune system, illness caused by E. coli can be fatal.
A total of 351,882 pounds of beef produced on June 22, July 12 or July 23, packaged with the number "Est. 9748" inside the USDA inspection mark were possibly affected.
You can read more about the recall here. ]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070926-1105012007-09-26T00:00:00Z2007-09-26T00:00:00Z3 Secrets to healthier eatingThe Journal of Nutrition, researchers at the University of Southern California, San Diego found that telephone counseling was an effective means for changing eating habits.
That's right. The support is crucial.
This study was done with a large number of women (over 3,000) and healthy eating behaviors were maintained for 4 years!
What were the factors that made this change to healthier eating so long lasting? The authors say the following 3 reasons are what made all the difference: --*accountability via the phone counseling sessions --*individualizing the eating plans --*setting goals
Think for a minute about times in your life when you have tried to change your eating habits, whether it was to lose weight or just to improve your overall health. Did you include all 3 of these elements?
Perhaps you never had the support from a caring, trained person. If you are looking to make changes in your eating habits, let me know! Give me a call (1.888.609.2211) or email me at sue@YourOnlineNutritionist.com.
I'm here for you! ]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070924-0822452007-09-24T00:00:00Z2007-09-24T00:00:00ZGoodbye love handles or hello health problems? You may have heard of it...Lipodissolve.
The name says it all. This is a minimally invasive procedure that causes extra fat to disappear, no matter the location on the body--love handles, stomach or thighs.
What's involved? Injections of a drug which works by "dissolving" fat, essentially breaking down areas of its accummulation. Result: a slimmer and trimmer body.
Sounds like the next magic bullet, doesn't it? Is it really so wonderful, or are there some serious consequences involved?
Those questions have not been adequately answered by the medical community and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
Even though some individuals have experienced great results, others have had side effects such as excessive bloating, darkening of the skin to the point of looking burnt and an intense stinging sensation.
The big question remains unanswered--does the fat actually dissolve away completely, or is it merely re-routed to another part of the body which could ultimately cause health problems in the future?
What do you think...would you try this procedure or not?
Post a comment...I'm interested in what you have to say about this!
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070921-0820082007-09-21T00:00:00Z2007-09-21T00:00:00ZAlongside™...its new This is just what some of you have told me you want and need. An 8 week program which includes everything--tips and tools, support and encouragement plus accountability. If you are serious about losing weight permanently, this is the program for you!
Its called Alongside™, and it truly is a "one stop shop" for losing weight! Those who choose to belong to this special group will have each other's support, plus direct access to me.
Alongside™ encompasses everything...group and individual encouragement plus all the information you need to be successful at reaching your weight loss goals.
Look for more information to be coming out soon.
I'll be offering discounted memberships to those who subscribe to my newsletter, so stay tuned! ]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070919-0822372007-09-19T00:00:00Z2007-09-19T00:00:00ZCleansing and Detoxing...should you or shouldn't you? I'll bet I can guess what you're thinking. "But everyone's doing it, so it must be helpful, right?"
Wrong.
Sure the persuasion to try these products sounds good, perhaps even logical.
We all are aware of the potential hazards of some of the artificial ingredients used in processed foods, not to mention pesticide residues and other chemicals that are found.
So, it makes sense that we should try and reduce our chances of getting some dreadful disease as a result of ingesting these toxic substances. Which, to some, means taking special pills, doing colonic cleanses and the like.
Right?
Wrong again.
There is one thing proponents of these diets, pills and cleanses are forgetting, and that is the incredible defenses that we have already been equipped with in our own bodies, the most natural protection against these dreaded foes possible. Your body doesn't need any extra help in this regard!
Scientists have found no benefit whatsoever to these Hollywood-made- famous detoxification rituals, and there are some very serious potential side effects, most notably a perforated colon, infections, and fluid and electrolyte imbalances which could possibly lead to heart failure.
Don't be fooled by what is popular!
Researchers have found that common sense strategies like drinking more water, eating more fruits and vegetables and getting more sleep at night does a better job (and less expensive, I might add).
Check out this article for more on detox diets. Read more about the hazards of cleansing here:
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070910-1103522007-09-10T00:00:00Z2007-09-10T00:00:00ZPopcorn and lung disease: what's the connection? "Popcorn lung", as its now being called, is potentially caused by daily exposure to the butter flavoring used in microwave popcorn. Rest easy, this doesn't develop overnight, but after years of exposure. Workers in plants that produce the popcorn are at higher risk because of their increased exposure.
While you may not think that you breathe enough of the artificial butter flavor fumes, the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers have asked companies to replace the butter flavors they normally use in their microwave popcorn.
Interesting.
It just might be time to pull out the good old air popper once again.
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070906-1412092007-09-06T00:00:00Z2007-09-06T00:00:00ZHow to lose 15 pounds If you normally consume one regular soda per day, and you cut this out of your daily diet, the calories you save would amount to a 15 pound weight loss in one year!
Sure it won't happen overnight, but what a relatively painless way to go...
BTW...if you are interested in food and health, I'd highly recommend getting a subscription to the Tufts Letter. Post a note or drop me an email and I'd be happy to send you ordering info.
]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070904-1314592007-09-04T00:00:00Z2007-09-04T00:00:00ZIn case you haven't heard the latest The latest on the list are Kroger potato salad with a pull date of Sept. 5 and ground beef from Alaska with an expiration date in July...check your freezer in case you have any left on hand.
Click on the links above for all the details.
What do you think should be done about the seemingly large number of unsafe foods that have been recalled lately? Post a comment and let us all know a possible solution (if there is one!)]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070904-0829252007-09-04T00:00:00Z2007-09-04T00:00:00ZFlaxseed for hot flashes An interesting pilot study conducted at the Mayo Clinic examined the possible relationship between eating ground flaxseed and a reduction in hot flash frequency. Reported on in this summer's issue of the Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology, the researchers emphasize that these results, though promising, are only preliminary.
In their work, 29 women were given 40 grams of ground flaxseed every day for 6 weeks. The 21 who completed the study reported a 57% decrease in the frequency of hot flashes.
Even though follow up studies are needed to prove this relationship, it sure wouldn't hurt to try flaxseed to see if it makes a difference for you. Flaxseed is safe to take, and has added health benefits such as alleviating constipation (its high in fiber), reducing inflammation in arthritis-sufferers, and reducing the risk of developing heart disease by improving blood lipid levels.
One word of caution. Check with your doctor before taking flaxseed if you are on blood thinning medications, have diabetes, are planning on surgery in the near future, or have a history of breast, uterine or ovarian cancer.
If you decide to try your own little experiment with taking flaxseed, let us know what happens...do you have less hot flashes? ]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070831-0933502007-08-31T00:00:00Z2007-08-31T00:00:00ZSpinach again... Read the details in this FDA Press Release.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070830-1314212007-08-30T00:00:00Z2007-08-30T00:00:00Z Developing healthy convenience foods: What's being done? Americans, with our fast-paced, no-time-to-cook lifestyles, are demanding more and more healthy convenience foods to lessen their risk of developing one of these life threatening diseases.
Are food companies really responding to the consumer demand for less junk food? What are they doing to develop foods with lower levels of fat, sugar and sodium?
Check out these articles with summarize the approach that both General Mills and Kraft are taking.]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070830-0838272007-08-30T00:00:00Z2007-08-30T00:00:00ZSupplement shape upNutrition Business Journal, an estimated 125 million Americans spend over $22 billion per year purchasing dietary supplements.
Labeling for these products is not nearly as stringent as those for food and/or drugs, ultimately resulting in much fraud--pills that don't contain what their labels say they do.
Several days ago the FDA enacted legislation intended to help regulate the industry, aiming to clean up this problem.
Large companies are now required to test all of the ingredients used in their products for purity, and to use full disclosure for labeling. Small and medium-sized companies have another several years to comply.
Check out yesterday's Washington Post story covering more details on what changes you can expect to see. ]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070829-1401492007-08-29T00:00:00Z2007-08-29T00:00:00ZDiet reads worth taking a look at Do you need some help sifting through the fads to find books that speak the truth?
Check out this article on 6 currently popular diet books that are worth reading.
Have any of you bought these? What are you thoughts on them? Post a comment and let all of us know your opinion...]]>http://youronlinenutritionist.com/Blog/index.php?entry=entry070828-1144182007-08-28T00:00:00Z2007-08-28T00:00:00ZTips for solving the "What's for dinner?" dilemmanearest phone to order take out? Ever dream about how much more you would enjoy sitting down to a healthy meal with your family if the drudgery of meal preparation was gone from your life?
Well, imagine this...Cranberry Chipolte Pork, Grilled Herb Shrimp, Tuscan Smoked Chicken, Arroz con Pollo, Beef Satay Skewers, Garlic and Balsamic Marinated Sirloin Roast, Pesto Cheese Ravioli with Chicken, Asian BBQ Pork Roast, Cajun Shrimp Pasta and Stuffed Flounder with White Wine Sauce. Or what about Quiche Loredo, Szechuan 5-Spice Stir Fry, Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Garlic Butter, Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with Tomato-Garlic Aioli, Chicken Piccata or Pork Medallions with Mustard Sauce?
Sound like menu items from an upscale restaurant, don't they? Could be, but did you realize they could also be the items found in your freezer?
That's right, even if you are not a gourmet cook, you can order meals like these to be delivered right to your doorstep, or you could pick up and/or assemble these meals yourself. Here's a rundown of several of the options available and how they work.
One popular choice is to assemble meals yourself at stores such as Dream Dinners or Entrees Made Easy. Check in your phone book or online for a location near you.
Ordering meals from either of these works similarly; all of the details are available online, but here's an overview of how things work. First, login to the website (www.EntreesMadeEasy.com or www.DreamDinners.com ) and create a new account with a username and password. After registering, select a convenient time slot from those available to come into the store and assemble your meals. The store has all of the recipes,ingredients and measuring utensils needed at various work stations.
Moving from station to station, you measure out the ingredients needed for each entrée you purchase, putting each in separate containers. Plan to spend roughly 45 minutes for each 6 entrees you choose.
That's it, no preparation or clean up work involved.
Once home, you can assemble each entrée by putting all the ingredients together in a container of your choice. Put the meal in the freezer for use at a later date.
Its just too easy. Of course if you want it even easier, for a small fee you can have your meals all assembled for you, so all you need to do is pick them up. What a time saver. Orders can also be placed in person or over the phone.
What do these meals cost? Both establishments quote prices of approximately $3.50 per serving, with 2 sizes of meals available. The smallest serves 2 adults, with a larger size serving 4 - 6 people. The dozen or so recipes vary each month, so you'll never get bored eating the same meals over and over.
More details on the entrees available and the cost of packages can be found online.
If you prefer home delivery of meals, there are even more options available online, however these tend to be more expensive. Homebistro.com advertises their pre-cooked meals go from freezer to table in 10 minutes. The frozen, pre-cooked gourmet offerings from Familychef.com can be heated in the microwave and served in minutes. Magickitchen.com is another service that is worth investigating. Try googling "home delivered meals"; there are other companies available offering similar services.
Another option is to use a personal chef service. Check out pchefnet.com for a directory of where to find these. What is so great about this is your meals are actually prepared by a skilled individual right in your own kitchen! Usually there are a number of menu items to choose from, and when all the cooking is done you should have dinner all ready, plus several other meals for later in the week.
Yes, with the busy schedules that September brings, its a great time of year to try out one (or more) of these meal assembly or delivery services. Just think, on your way home from work or school or soccer practice, you might actually be looking forward to what's for dinner!