Eating For Health

Who knew that simply snacking on baby carrots can have such a health benefit?   Baby carrots are not only a convenient snack, but they also pack a nutritional punch. These little orange wonders are high in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for good vision, immune function, and skin health. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight and digestive system. How would simply snacking on baby carrots lead to improved health? Researchers at Samford University found that adding baby carrots to your day at least 3 times a week resulted in more carotenoids in your skin.   Why is this a good thing?   According to nutritionist , Mary Harper Simmons, “…people who consume and have high levels of carotenoids have higher levels of antioxidant activity going on in the body, which means that there are lower levels of inflammation and lower risk of chronic illnesses such as hea...

Everyone knows that healthy eating promotes good health.   But did you know there are foods you can eat to promote good eye health?   The New York State Department of Health has a great article, Look to Fruits and Vegetables for Good Eye Health .   They note that eating more fruits and vegetables will improve eye health and help prevent some eye diseases.   Choosing foods rich in antioxidants is the key to better eye health.   (Fruits and vegetables are good for your overall health, see “ Why are berries and other fruit and veggies so good for your health ?”)   Fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants but a number of other foods are also rich in antioxidants.    What antioxidants protect our eyes and what foods provide those antioxidants?   Lutein and Zeaxanthin – you may have seen commercials on TV that promote lutein.   If you look at the daily vitamin/mineral supplement you may be taking, you may find “lutein” listed.   T...

Some interesting research and articles in the news.   Do you like guacamole or adding some avocados to your salad?    Good for your overall health and especially good for your eyes.    Have small children around?   Cut up those grapes and cherry tomatoes.   Do you enjoy some KFC?   Healthier KFC is coming soon. Avocados – in the June 2017 edition of Consumer Reports they noted the following question: “Someone told me avocados are good for your eyes.”   True or False? So true.   Consumer Reports notes avocados are rich with two carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin.   Both are great for healthy eyes.   Dr. Lipman, Consumer Reports’ Chief Medical Advisor stated, “..they are thought to filter the blue UV rays from the sun – which can damage these eye parts – helping to prevent macular degeneration and possible cataracts.”    Other vegetables that are also good for eye health are those that are dark green such...