Eating For Health

Caffeine – who doesn’t enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning? Whether a K-cup, Starbucks or Mr. Coffee, most people enjoy starting their day with a cup of coffee.  But in the news recently is the story of the teen who died, according to the coroner, from drinking too much caffeine.   So how much caffeine is safe to drink? Are there any health benefits to drinking coffee and other beverages that provide caffeine? How much caffeine is safe to drink? The teenager who died drank three caffeine drinks over a two-hour period, a large Mountain Dew, a latte and an energy drink. According to some reports, it is estimated that this was about 300 mg of caffeine – which should be safe for most people. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), most adults can safely consume 400 milligrams of caffeine a day, which is about four 8-ounce cups of coffee. According to WebMD , drinking more than this can lead to some symptoms, such as insomnia, nervousness, increased...

Last week we discussed some diet tips from dietitians.   Here are 5 more tips from the nutrition experts. 6.   Eat more Fruits and Vegetables I always tell my students to eat 5 fruits and vegetables a day, minimum.   The World Health Organization recommends nine servings a day.   But 5 is a start for most people.   It is really hard for some people to get used to eating 2 fruits/vegetables at lunch or dinner.   I was just reviewing some lunch and dinner menus my students planned for a 4 year old.   Even though the meals were supposed to comply with MyPlate, very few students served the child 2 fruits and vegetables at lunch and dinner.   So get in the habit of having 2 fruits and vegetables at lunch and dinner. Fruits and vegetables are not only packed with vitamins and minerals, they also offer the antioxidants that have so many beneficial health effects.   Packing lunch – include 2 fruits/vegetables in lunches.   Pack carrot...