The Perspective

Three new studies have explored the health benefits of consumption of tree nuts (almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts).

Researchers found that tree nut consumption was associated with a better nutrient profile and diet quality; lower body weight and lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome; and a decrease in several cardiovascular risk factors compared to those seen among non-consumers.

First, researchers at Loma Linda University studied 803 adults using a validated food frequency questionnaire and assessed both tree nut and peanut intake together and separately. [Read more...]

Even though children’s nutrition has received lots of attention the past few years, you’re still more likely to find chicken fingers and fries on kids’ menus than wraps and salads.

Ninety-seven percent of major restaurant-chain children’s meals were deemed unhealthful in a report by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a consumer-advocacy group.

“I think what most restaurants have done is just add one or two meals that meet nutrition standards and left the rest of the menu very unhealthy,” said Margo Wootan, nutrition policy director for the Washington-based organization. “They’re still serving up the same old junk they always have.” [Read more...]

The world would be a healthier place, or at least people would have the knowledge to eat healthier, if everyone could tour a grocery store at least once with a dietitian.

Registered dietitian Laura Stepp of Lexington Medical Center agreed to take us on just such a tour of a Lexington-area Publix. She starts with handouts from the U.S. Department of Agriculture on making healthy choices, creating a comprehensive shopping list and adding more vegetables to a diet.

She also suggests picking up sales circulars from a kiosk near the store entrance and maybe even stopping by the customer desk to ask for any special store coupons. [Read more...]