Healthy Eating

Q. I just heard that the latest recommendations say we dont have to worry about how much cholesterol we eat. Is that true? Why the big change?

Q. Are flaxseed crackers nutritious, and can they help lower cholesterol?

According to surveys, the two most popular New Years resolutions involve losing weight and getting fit-and for good reason. Moving toward a healthier dietary pattern and being more physically active are crucial steps toward achieving well-being-with or without weight loss.

A review and analysis published recently in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggested that eating walnuts could improve blood lipid levels (cholesterol and triglycerides) without causing weight gain or increasing blood pressure.

The popular Korean condiment, kimchi, is simple to make and is an excellent introduction to making your own fermented vegetables. Kimchi can be eaten on its own, or used to liven up stir-fries, scrambled eggs, tacos, and grain bowls. Before you begin preparation, make sure you have a clean 2-qt (or two 1-qt) mason jar(s) on hand. This recipe makes a fairly large batch. Cut the recipe in half, if you prefer.

Q. I heard that the heat from cooking makes oil dangerous. Is oil safe to cook with?

Q. Ive heard that drinking lemon water can help with my acid reflux. Is this true?

Q. Potatoes are a vegetable, so why arent French fries good for you? Are the nutrients destroyed in the frying process?

The market for plant-based alternatives to dairy products continues to grow, as lactose intolerance, dairy allergy, veganism, environmental concerns, and other factors lead Americans to look for alternatives to dairy. So where do these beverages fit into a healthy dietary pattern?

According to the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), 20 percent of all cancers diagnosed in the U.S. are related to poor dietary choices and lack of exercise. So what should we eat, and what should we avoid? News outlets and the internet are full of (sometimes conflicting) reports claiming links between specific foods or nutrients and cancer. Many of these claims are based on a limited number of studies. But when researchers analyze all of the research on cancer and nutrition together, it becomes clear that increasing intake of individual foods or popping dietary supplements doesnt work. Overall dietary pattern, however, can make an important and significant difference.