Aryana Libris

Authors : Goldstein Myrna Chandler - Goldstein Mark Allan
Title : Healthy foods Fact versus fiction
Year : 2010

Link download : Goldstein_Myrna_Chandler_-_Goldstein_Mark_Allan_-_Healthy_foods.zip

Introduction. Every day, consumers are bombarded with information about food. Wherever they go and whatever they do, consumers are confronted with a neverending commentary on the topic. And, all too often, the material that is presented may be heralded one day and denounced the next. Dietitians and nutritionists may sing endless praises for certain foods; later, consumers may be advised to eliminate these same foods from their diets. For example, for years, all fats were lumped together in one giant pot. People were told to reduce or eliminate fat from their diets. It is now recognized that some fats, such as olive oil, may play an integral role in a healthful diet. The goal of this book is to investigate the research behind some 50 supposedly healthful foods. In many cases, that is relatively easy. There are a number of foods that have been extensively studied. But, that is not true for some supposedly healthful foods. In numerous instances, we were unable to locate a sufficient amount of research to write an entry. Moreover, there are about a dozen healthier foods that are grown with large amounts of pesticides. It is our belief that the benefits obtained from eating those foods may well be compromised by the pesticides. (Those consumers who wish to reduce their intake of pesticides should purchase the organically grown versions of those foods.) It is also important to realize that even truly beneficial foods should be eaten as part of an overall wholesome and nourishing diet. Thus, though blueberries are a superb addition to the diet, no one would advise people to eat them three times a day. It is especially important not to eat large amounts of dried fruit, with their concentrations of sugar. And, while the consumption of organic apples strongly supports good health, they will do very little to assist a daily lunch of pizza and a bag of chips. For most people, their diet should consist primarily of fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. However, their diet should also include lean protein obtained from lean poultry, cold-water fish (such as sardines, halibut, and wild salmon), and tofu, and healthier fatty foods, such as olive oil, sesame seeds, and avocados. Foods with saturated fat, such as red meat, should be consumed sparingly. Sometimes, it is advantageous to eliminate them from the diet. In fact, many vegans, people who eat no animal products, report improvements in their health and well-being and a greater ease in maintaining a healthful weight. At present, about two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese. These conditions are associated with other medical problems such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. If more Americans could find ways to include greater amounts of healthier foods in their diets, the prevalence of these illnesses could be reduced. We hope that this book plays a role in that undertaking. ...