Some of you have emailed me with questions and concerns about preparedness with regards to a possible Swine Flu Pandemic. I have decided to devote an article to that topic in next Tuesday's Forum. Until then: take obvious precautions, such as: Handwashing, avoiding unecessary physical contact and if your immune system is low: face masks for air travel, and when in large groups of people, or around sick people, avoiding salad bars or buffets, as well as foods imported from Mexico. If you become sick PLEASE STAY HOME!!!!
Next week we'll devote our time to boosting our immune systems. The month of May will feature a new calendar of events with articles such as eating with the seasons: changes to make in spring, do you need to detox, and updates on our drugged waters...stay tuned...and watch your emails this week for our MAY WEBSITE, YEAH!!
The WHO has upgraded the pandemic risk to Phase 4 which is concerning. Still, remember, thousands of people get sick and some even die each season from influenza viruses so let's not panic. I am waiting until next week so we'll hopefully have better information as far as how dangerous this flu is in the U.S. If you have specific things you would like addressed please post them and I'll answer them here next week.
This week I'd like to update you about foods that have become friends versus foes for many of us. Obviously, if you are allergic to the food or a component then it is NOT for you! Most nutrition information has to be individualized to be of benefit to anyone. This week we'll discuss new information about: wine, coffee, chocolate, butter, eggs & potatoes.
WINE: A preponderance of studies show that antioxidants particularly reservatrol may lead to reduced risk of: heart disease, cancer, lowering of blood pressure and cholesterol, and better insulin utilization. Other studies show it reduces tooth decay, boosts immunity, and reduces risk of dementia. Still, according to leading nutrition researchers there has not been enough study in actual humans to support recommendations for everyone. Risks include: alcoholism, damage to blood sugar levels, and increased weight so these factors should be considered. Wine also raises estrogen levels so it should be avoided by some women.
Other sources: 4 ounces of grape juice will provide similar benefits but is still not a good idea for those with blood sugar issues. Reservatrol supplements may be a better option.
COFFEE:
Recent research as hailed coffee as a preventive for Alzheimer's liver cancer, type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's, and gallstones. It is also hailed as a preventative for depression. According to the Harvard school of Public health current results are enticing but as yet inconclusive.
Possible cons: short-lived rise in blood pressure, blood sugar problems, adrenal fatigue, high cholesterol.
My advice: the dose makes the poison. While some cardiac patients should completely abstain, most people can enjoy some coffee up to 10 ounces daily with no adverse reactions. Still if you are drinking espresso in that quantity or venti mochas you'll run into even more trouble namely weight gain, and excess sugar and fat. If you are relying on caffeine to give you energy beware you'll run into adrenal problems down the road.
CHOCOLATE:
Dark chocolate sorry milk and white do not count, contain some antioxidants that may be beneficial to your health. Studies have demonstrated that chocolate may improve brain function, reduce blood pressure, decrease risk of heart attack, and lower cholesterol. Every woman knows that chocolate is a powerful anitidote to monthly PMS!
Cons: chocolate is not a low calorie food and it can be hard to moderate its intake. ALso, it is high in fat and sugar and the benefits can be obtained by non glamourous old fruits and vegetables! My advice a little goes a long way. A couple of ounces a week are sufficient for obtaining whatever benefits chocolate has while not displacing more nutritious foods.
BUTTER:
It was bad, and margarine was good now it is good and margarine is bad right? ...Well....butter is better than chemical fats like transfatty or hydrogenated fats, or most margarines, but it is a saturated fat like chicken skin, best to minimize. Better sources of fats are olive oils, nuts, seeds avocados and some fish. Coconut oil may also be useful in moderation versus butter...see this months: Nutrition News for more information.
EGGS:
Once nature's perfect food than maligned as a cholesterol maker what is the correct story?
Most experts now advise that 6 eggs per week are unlikely to raise cholesterol. Very little cholesterol is obtained from the actual food content instead it appears to be more of a function of saturated fats from animal sources. Eggs are a great source of protein, iron and other nutrients and low in calories so enjoy a veggie omlette skipping the ham and cheese of course!
POTATOES:
Seem to improve immune function and have more potassium than bananas, plus they are low in calories, and contain fiber especially when baked with the skin. Potatoes have gotten bad press due to their carbohydrate content, and high glycemic index. My advice: eat them baked a couple times per week avoiding cheese and bacon toppings, also sweet potatoes have a better overall nutrient profile and lower glycemic index when baked and can be enjoyed more frequently.
SO ENJOY!
Taryn DeCicco ND, LAc, LDN
4/48/09
847-577-4455
Best of Health!
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