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Diet & Nutrition

As a matter of fact, the consumption of garlic is now believed to be beneficial in decreasing the chances of developing both colon and stomach cancer. In a review of 19 studies, researchers at the University of North Carolina concluded that with the ingestion of only six cloves of garlic per week, our likelihood of developing stomach cancer drops by 50% and colon cancer by 30%, compared to those who do not consume garlic.

Please settle a squabble with a friend. Isn't stick margarine better for us than butter?
 

Well, I hope you haven't invested too much into your bet, because your friend has just won . . . but neither choice is a very good one for our health. The culprit in margarine is the high level of trans fatty acids, which have been found to increase LDL cholesterol (the bad form) and decrease HDL cholesterol (the good form). While the saturated fat in butter raises LDL, it does not negatively affect HDL. Of course, there are much healthier choices such as using olive oil as a substitute or to look for margarines that are low in saturated fat and contain no trans fatty acids. According to information from the FDA, removing all TFAs from margarine would prevent approximately 7,000 heart attacks each year.

Irradiation of food products has been promoted as a safe way to kill bacteria without depleting nutritional content of food. Is this true?
 

I personally wonder if we will ever get the true facts about the safety of irradiated food products. While the FDA says that irradiating eggs, for instance, to kill bacteria like Salmonella, is effective, it also recently admitted that this does lower the Vitamin A content of this food. The consumer group Public Citizen is concerned that along with the loss of Vitamin A, heat sensitive nutrients such as Omega 3 Fatty Acids and B Vitamins will also be diminished. My belief, as always, is to stay away from foods processed with procedures in which we have no clue as to the long-term risks to the human body.

Is it true that the best diet to eat for gaining muscle is one of meat vs. vegetable source?
 

The argument could probably be won by either side of this equation: the meat believers/users or the vegetarian sect. However, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition stated that animal protein may get the edge in its ability to build muscle in humans. This could be related to its bio-availability, although I've seen other studies that rate soy protein very close in bio-availability when compared to beef, chicken, fish, etc. A varied diet may be the best one to follow as the benefits of soy protein are well founded in its supposed influence in decreasing the chances of acquiring certain cancers as well as minimizing menopausal symptoms and enhancing immune system functioning.

Is it true that raw foods are better for us than cooked foods?
 

This battle has been going on forever between raw food devotees and those who believe that a balance between the two food groups is necessary. I love the incorporation of more raw foods/veggies, nuts, seeds, etc. due to the high amount of fiber, vitamins and minerals these foods normally contain. There is no doubt that we are consuming diets that are too processed — white breads and pastas, rice and deserts — that are void of most nutritional benefits. Fast food after fast food meals . . . leading to an increasing number of health problems. Even with my enthusiasm over eating more raw foods, there may be a nutritional benefit that is achieved by cooking certain veggies. Take for instance a recent study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, where they found that when carrots were cooked, the antioxidant levels available for use by the body increased by 34%. Balance, balance, balance.

Is it true that cinnamon can help with certain types of diabetes?
 

According to studies done by USDA researchers in Maryland on lab animals, cinnamon improved their blood sugar levels, which could have a positive impact on people with type 2 diabetes. The equivalent of 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per day was recommended. Make sure to speak with your doctor about any possible benefits. No correlation was given for insulin-dependent diabetics.
 

Is it true that green tea can help you burn more fat?
 

This was first reported about ten years ago and now recently confirmed in a very small study reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. In this study, 60% of the men taking a green tea supplement, roughly the equivalent of one cup of this tea with each meal, burned about 80 more calories per day than those taking a placebo pill or caffeine supplement. Since the "caffeine group" did not see this change, study researchers believe it may be the flavonoids in the green tea that increased the metabolic rate.

I haven't heard you mention any new information regarding benefits of soy lately. Is this just another heath food fad?
 

Actually, there have been several new studies touting the benefits of soy which I believe reinforce the fact that the "soy craze" is much more than a health food fad. A study from the University of Minnesota proved that women who consumed a soy drink that contains the estrogen components in soy, called soy isoflavones, saw a significant reduction in blood cholesterol levels. The only caveat with soy consumption may exist with women who have breast cancer. Some researchers believe that this product may actually encourage tumor growth. As always, check with your doctor or a naturopathic physician (to find one in your area, contact the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians) for the latest findings if you do have any serious illness.

What protein/meal replacement bars do you use?

Two of my favorites are Pure Protein (high protein/low carb) and MET-Rx (high protein/moderate carb). Both of these options can be worked well into your daily meal plans, allowing us to stay on schedule and eat every three hours, regardless of how busy our day might be. Add a piece of fruit and several glasses of water to one of the above meal replacement bars and you are set until your next meal. Please check past FAQ's for more information on meal planning.

Are there additional dietary changes I can make besides reducing sodium to help with high blood pressure?

At the University of Naples, Italy, a recent study involving people with mild to moderate high blood pressure showed a positive correlation between intake of olive oil and the reduction of blood pressure. As reported in the Archives of Internal Medicine, two groups of people were fed diets consisting of 26% fat, where one used olive oil and the other used sunflower oil. At the end of the study, the people on the olive oil diet had resting blood pressures that were significantly lower, hence their blood pressure medications were significantly reduced. Just think of the increased benefits that these people would experience if they added one more lifestyle change that has also been proven to lower blood pressure — transcendental meditation.

Please share with me a variety of choices when it comes to healthy protein options.

Ok . . . cottage cheese (low/fat free), egg whites (as an omelette or egg white salad for sandwiches, etc.), tofu, soy burgers and soy dogs, beans of all types as salads or burritos, protein powders for shakes or to use in oatmeal, waffle and pancake mixes, lean cuts of turkey, canned tuna, salmon, etc. (while higher in fat, they offer essential fatty acids), fat free or low fat yogurt, protein bars. As you can imagine, the list goes on and on. Please check our past FAQs on this page for more info on healthier eating.
 

How many calories does one need daily to maintain weight and not gain any.

If you multiply your weight by 10, that's the number of calories you need per day to maintain your current weight, if all you did was lay around all day and not move. If you weigh 125 pounds, you need 1,250 calories per day to fuel your bodily systems. If you are semi-active (walk a little, light exercise), multiply your base calories by 1.2 (in this case, you'd need 1,500 calories per day). Someone who exercises regularly, multiply base calories by 1.3 (1,625 calories needed per day to maintain). To lose weight, read our past FAQ's on this page regarding the truth about our need to eat multiple meals per day (5 meals a day) combined with a sensible strength training program for women and men.

A friend of mine heard on your show your concern with regular consumption of Nutrasweet. Is this an unhealthy product?

I never really paid much attention to the associated health concerns of Nutrasweet (aspartame) until I received a letter three years ago from a listener, who after doing extensive research on this product, connected her depression and insomnia to her intake of three diet colas every day. After weaning herself off the diet sodas, her symptoms disappeared within 30 days — a brief period of time considering that she'd been suffering for over ten years. No other changes were made that would equate with the disappearance of her health problem. And now, a recent guest, Christine Lydon, M.D., is offering a free article she wrote entitled "The Dangers of Aspartame." An extremely thorough researcher, Dr. Lydon plainly points out the potential problems brought on by the consumption of aspartame that range from dizziness, headache, tinitus, chronic fatigue syndrome, and more. Call for your free article today 1-800-255-2690.

Do you believe in fasting as a way to help detoxify the body?

For years the general concensus was that juice or water fasting helped to eliminate toxins from the body. However, recently, Ann Louise Gittleman, author of  The Living Beauty Detox Program, presented intriguing information that stated to truly detoxify we must continue to eat and drink, and it's the correct combination of food and supplements that can really make a difference in the way our bodies heal. She hightlights the need for specific fats to help the body cleanse itself along with certain protein sources and purifying drinks containing unsweetened cranberry juice. This book is an excellent resource that I highly recommend. If you mention our show or web site, her company will offer you a 10% savings on the cost of this book. Call 1-800-888-4353.

You had referred a while ago to a method designed to help people who eat emotionally. I have struggled with this for years and need your input.

Many leading edge experts in nutrition believe that through amino acid supplementation we can help correct brain chemistry, decreasing the chance of overeating due to emotional ups and downs. It seems the key supplements to consider are: 1) Tyrosine (decreases the desire for sugar, carbohydrates, caffeine, etc. that temporarily give us a lift of energy); and 2) GABA (decreases the desire for sugar, alcohol, etc. that temporarily gives us a calming effect). There are additional supplements that help as well such as glutamine and 5HTP, helping to stabilize our moods, thereby leading to a decrease in emotional eating. One of the best books ever written on this subject is The Diet Cure by Julia Ross.

You recently read a study regarding how we can decrease our risk of prostate cancer through the consumption of certain vegetables. What were they?

A listener from Seattle sent us the conclusion of a study at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, showing how we can cut the risk of this disease by almost 50% when we consume three or more servings of vegetables per day. The most effective were the cruciferous veggies like cauliflower, brussels sprouts, broccoli and cabbage. Since a service size is only 1/2 cup, this is extremely easy to accomplish if we simply plan a little bit in advance. And it's worth the minimal effort, as prostate cancer is the second leading cancer killer of men next to lung cancer.

I know that losing and keeping weight off is a challenge for many people. What do you think are the keys to long-term success?

There really is no magical formula to weight loss, but it doesn't have to be complicated. First, forget about a special supplement, especially those that claim you don't have to change your lifestyle to drop the pounds. Pure hogwash. Understand that worthwhile accomplishments take effort. It's pure and simple. If you're not willing to do something different in regard to your lifestyle (like getting up 30 minutes earlier every day to walk), then get used to the body you have right now and prepare yourself for more weight gain in the future.

Eat more fiber. Studies have proven that a diet high in fiber helps maintain energy levels and decreases binge eating. Slowly build up to 30-45 grams/day.

Eat 5 small meals per day, each one balanced with some protein and whole grain products or vegetables. Eat every 3 hours, which will eliminate almost all of your binge eating by keeping your blood sugar levels more normalized and metabolic rate burning at a higher level.

Commit yourself to keeping a journal for the first 90 days, 7 days a week, writing down the foods and amounts and time you are eating (7 am, 10 am, 1 pm, 4 pm, 7 pm), and the exercise you are doing. This will keep you very aware, very conscious.

Add strength training to your routine.

Change activities often, work out with a buddy, create a space for gratitude that you are an amazing person for choosing to live healthier and throw out the bathroom scale.

Meditate/pray every day with a long range goal of 30 minutes per day. Even beginning with a few minutes each day can yield some unexpected benefits. These practices will allow you to become more centered, less anxious.

I know fiber is important, but how many grams do we need daily? Are supplements a good way to get it?

While the average American consumes only 12 grams of fiber per day, studies have shown that the optimum amount is between 30 grams - 50 grams per day. But be careful when increasing your intake daily — adding too much too quickly can result in bloating and cramping of the intestines. Along with moving dietary wastes through the intestines quickly and effortlessly, an increase in both soluble (i.e., oat bran) and insoluble (i.e., wheat bran) fibers may enhance our heart health, decrease the chance of certain cancers and help us to maintain more normalized blood sugar levels, decreasing our desire to overeat. Begin to look for more natural, less processed foods and incorporate them into your diet. Beans, salads (except for iceberg lettuce), vegetables, oatmeal, brown rice and sunflower seeds, are all good sources of fiber. I highly recommend psyllium fiber capsules (1-800-634-1800), which have no added sugar or aspartame vs. the popular powders on the market today.

My daughter is moving east to pursue a career in modeling and I'm concerned about her staying with a sensible eating plan. Do you have any information on the special needs of models regarding nutrition?

The modeling world is usually perceived as one full of eating disorders and unhealthy living practices (little exercise, long hours, smoking, etc.), but there are numerous positive examples of healthy models with great lifestyle regimens like Cindy Crawford and Kim Alexis. Kim has been running long distance races for years, and at one point was doing 100+ pushups/day. One model I helped on the West Coast actually saw her body change for the better by adopting a program of eating five small meals per day. Her energy levels stayed high even when she was pressed to pose for photographs for over 14 hours/day. She also saw a change in her skin when she began drinking a gallon of filtered water per day, as well. Below is one sample day's menu that you can share with your daughter. Make sure she's taking at least a high potency multi-vitamin/mineral supplement plus 1200 mg. of calcium and 500 mg. of magnesium each day.

7:00 A.M. — 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, 1 banana, 1/2 cup sunflower seeds, water
10:00 A.M. — 1/2 cup trail mix or protein drink, water
1:00 P.M. — chicken breast over Caesar salad, tomatoes/onions, water
4:00 P.M. — 1 cup nonfat yogurt, 1 apple, water
7:00 P.M. — protein shake (protein powder, water, frozen fruit), steamed spinach (frozen or fresh)

On many days, your daughter may not be able to stay with a strict schedule, but encourage her to always carry with her water and packable foods like fruit, trail mix, protein powder and protein bars.

Several months ago you talked about a food index where there are some foods that burn slower, or take longer to raise our blood sugar levels. This, then, I would guess helps keep our energy levels more even. What is the index?

The glycemic index to some researchers is the key to maintaining constant energy levels, as well as decreasing the chances of overeating. When we eat over-processed foods and simple refined carbohydrates regularly, insulin is released to normalize blood sugar levels that rise rapidly after eating these types of food. If we continue to regularly have these foods (bagels, low fiber cereals like Corn Flakes, white rice) the body goes through a constant battle between the surge of blood sugar levels to the normalization via the role of insulin. Some believe this creates the craving for more refined foods, which tricks us into believing we need them to keep our energy levels up. On the contrary, low glycemic index foods are normally digested more slowly, raising blood sugar levels more evenly, thus keeping our energy levels stable and decreasing the carbohydrate cravings many people get. Try to consume higher fiber foods at every meal and also always incorporate protein and some fat at these times as well. Here is a brief list of glycemic rated foods:

Could you comment on the various fat absorbing pills on the market?

At this point in time I would be hard pressed to endorse such products that, to my knowledge, have never really been tested and proven effective. It seems to me that these products are one more attempt to take away from the importance of using our common sense in accomplishing weight loss goals. I am also concerned with the fact that any product that removes fat from the digestive process obviously would also have to remove the important and healthy fats like essential fatty acids found in vegetable sources such as flax seed and fish products, and also remove at the same time important fat soluble vitamins. Until more research is done, I would stay away from these products and go back to the basics of what we know works to decrease body fat, i.e., watching the number of calories we consume on a daily basis and increase our efforts in the weight room and aerobic activities.

I've been following your recommendation of eating more protein and veggies and I do feel better, even more energy. But I'm stuck with ideas for really quick, easy and smaller meals. Ideas are welcome.

Variety can be a challenge initially in our switch to smaller, more frequent meals, but the end result of having more energy and feeling better is well worth it. Chopped egg white and low fat mayo mixed with veggies can be prepared the night before, and beans and rice and veggies can be eaten cold or hot. I also recently found an instant soy based meat-free chili (just mix with 2/3 cup boiling water) that is just superb! I prepare one packet and put it over a baked potato or 1/2 pound of veggies for a quick meal. Lean Entree Veggie Chili Mix can be ordered by calling 800-634-1380 ($14 + S/H for six individual servings).

You spoke of a study condemning U.S. fruits and vegetables, saying that children are at risk for high pesticide intake. Where did this information come from?

One of the most respected consumer magazines, Consumer Reports, shares information monthly on ways that we can all become more educated and aware in life. While at times I believe they are too conservative in their viewpoints, this information was even shocking to me. A report written by the advocacy group that publishes Consumer Reports, Consumer's Union, discovered that almost 80% of five-year-olds who ate only a single serving of winter squash would be exposed to unsafe levels of pesticides, and 40% of this same group would be at risk after eating a single peach. This exposure may cause flu-like symptoms and repeated exposure may lead to brain damage. I could understand if these findings were reported about some foreign grown fruits and vegetables where the use of pesticides is all too abundant, but I was amazed that this information was based on produce grown in the U.S. A report that once again supports our need to eat more organically grown foods. For more information on this report, go to www.consumersunion.org or call 914-378-2000.

Everyone knows we should eat breakfast, yet few of us do. You spoke about the benefits to kids of eating breakfast daily. I'd like you to repeat this so that I can share the information.

Our friend and nutrition expert, Jean Carper, recently wrote an article I quoted from regarding the incredible benefits of breakfast for children, which I'm sure can be applied to adults as well. A study completed at Harvard University showed that kids who ate breakfast had a better attendance rate and 40% higher math grades. Those who did not eat breakfast were 30% more likely to suffer from hyperactivity and twice as likely to be depressed. The good news is that once breakfast was added to their daily routine, hyperactivity, depression and anxiety all declined while their grades improved. The jury is in and breakfast is still the most important meal of the day for children and adults. For those unaccustomed to eating breakfast, protein and fruit shakes (see receipies in our previous FAQs) are probably the easiest meals to make. They're great tasting and full of the nutrients needed to get your day off to a wonderful start.

How do you eat 5 meals a day and not gain weight? I know you personally follow this program and would like information on how to do it.

I know in the last several years two major changes to my eating routine have led to great changes in my energy levels and body composition: 1) eating more low fat protein; and 2) eating 5 meals a day. Here is a sample of my 5 meals a day eating plan:

9:00 A.M. — Protein shake with berries or bananas (either straight whey protein powder or whey & soy) and 1/2 cup oatmeal or Wheatina.
12:00 Noon — 8 hard boiled egg whites (chopped), 1/2 cup brown rice, 2 cups steamed broccoli and 1 tablespoon fat-free mayonnaise (mix all together).
3:00 P.M. — Protein shake (see above), sweet potato.
6:00 P.M. — 8 oz. fish, 1 cup brown rice, 1/2 lb. steamed veggie.
9:00 P.M. — Protein shake (see above).

By eating 5 meals a day, our bodies are constantly fueled so our energy levels stay high. The caloric intake is not so high at each meal where one feels stuffed and lethargic. And, it's not difficult to prepare foods ahead of time to take them to work with you. I have yet to meet anyone who eats this often (and healthy foods!) who complains of low energy. It really works. Weight training is also a very important part of my weekly exercise routine. I follow the rule of thumb of 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight per day.

I just recently started listening to your shows and how uplifting they are. Good job! Could you post the recipe for the breakfast protein drink you mentioned?

For all of the people who have called, faxed and e-mailed for more information about my protein shake, here it is in detail: Solgar Whey to Go (1-2 scoops), Naturade soy protein (1 scoop), 10 ounces of water, 1 banana or 1/2 cup blueberries, 4 ice cubes, 1 teaspoon psyllium fiber powder and 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional). Also, 1 scoop Myoplex if I'm working out with weights that day.

Can you recommend the best audio cassettes on nutrition? As a salesperson in my car all day I could take advantage of this time and be more proactive in my attempt to learn about health. Thanks.

One of the top nutrition experts in our country is Dr. Betty Kamen who has released eight really dynamite audios on everything from antioxidants to osteoporosis. To order, call 1-800-514-5115.

In a perfect world, what do you believe would be the best diet for most of us to follow?

I really do believe that most of us can see dramatic changes in our mental and physical energy with a program that would be 50%-55% complex carbohydrates (heavy on vegetables, dark and bright colors, high fiber -- spinach, carrots, brussels sprouts, broccoli, fruit, etc., light on white pasta and rice), 30% protein (heavy on soy milk, soy protein shakes and seafood, extremely light on full fat dairy foods and meats) and 15% fat. Supplementing this program with added bulk from products like pysillium fiber, hot oatmeal or wheat cereals can help us all come closer to the recommended 30-50 grams of fiber we should be consuming per day, versus the 12-15 grams the average person takes in. The key seems to be consuming a low fat source of protein at every meal followed by a heavy dose of nutrient dense vegetables at most meals.

I have changed my whole diet, threw away the junk, refined sugars, chemicals, flour and rice. I feel great about these changes, but I'm also confused about some things I have heard and read. There are people who are promoting "high" animal fats, eating red meats, butter, raw milk, eggs, etc. What are your views?

I have a hard time believing that a high fat, saturated fat diet can be healthy when it has been linked to cancer of the colon and heart disease for more than 50 years. I do believe white flour, white pasta and rice, sugar and refined crackers and cookies, etc., are horrendous for our health and we should make changes to move away from these foods. Make sure your family is on a strong multi-vitamin mineral supplement and consume 30+ grams of fiber per day. Check out our other FAQ comments for more on dietary change.

Wheat Allergies . . .

I regularly recommend Dr. Crook's book The Yeast Connection Handbook for people battling stomach and intestinal problems. Here is a letter from a listener with another option.

I heard your program regarding wheat allergies. I discovered that I was extremely sensitive 20 years ago. I had all the symptoms you mentioned, especially severe depression. My physician had me read the book Winning The War Against Asthma & Allergies - A Drug-Free Cure for Asthma and Allergy Sufferers by Ellen W. Cutler, D.C. It explains the Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Technique. I started treatment this past fall and the results are amazing. I can now eat wheat and other formally "bad" foods without having a mind altering experience. I no longer crave wheat. I am so grateful to have my life back through these treatments that when I heard your program I felt a moral obligation to pass on my experience.

My daughter and I listened in amazement to a recent guest talk about recovering from cravings for sugar and wheat/white flour products through supplements. Who was this person?

My recent guest, Julia Ross, is one of the leading experts in amino acid supplementation to combat food and substance addiction in the U.S. Her company, Recovery Systems (415-458-8446), has an unbelievable 85% success rate for people with eating/addiction problems. The use of amino acids such as L-Tyrosine for arousal/energy, L-glutamine for normalized blood sugar levels and intestinal health, and L-Tryptophan for a feeling of calm/centeredness have been widely researched and are a part of the program needed for many to break the cycle associated with these certain cravings.

My boyfriend just cut back his drinking to two per day and is having intense sugar cravings which I know is not healthy. Any ideas to help?

Going to sugar cravings from alcohol is extremely common and a whole lot healthier, so allow the transition to continue. Do not let your boyfriend feel guilty about consuming more sugar at this point because then the other alternative for him may be going back to alcohol. Most experts recommend 200-400 mcg of GTF chromium, 1500 mg of glutamine and an essential fatty acid supplement like Efamol's Balance to help decrease these sugar cravings. I have had at least 50 people over the past year write to tell me this combination was the ticket to freedom from sugar. Also, you might check out the book Seven Weeks to Sobriety by Dr. Joan Mathews-Larson. AA meetings may also be beneficial.

You mentioned before on your radio show your love for popcorn. How do you make it low fat?

I do love popcorn and here is the infamous recipe: air pop corn in a paper grocery bag, sprinkle 1 or 2 tsp. olive oil over the top and shake bag to spread it around. Spray Pam into the bag and shake, light spray again and shake. Then sprinkle in low sodium salt and/or black pepper and viola! the perfect low fat high fiber snack (the paper bag will absorb much of the oil, but to make it a nonfat snack, omit the olive oil).

I've read that certain types of juicers are better than others, but can they really extract a high enough percentage of nutrients without any adverse effects? I've heard there are some bad effects.

I really believe one of the best food processors/juicers is produced by Vita-Mix (1-800-Vitamix) due to the fact that it utilizes the whole fruit or vegetable including the pulp which is full of phytochemicals and fiber. It seems like such a waste to use a juice extractor that removes the pulp and fiber almost entirely.

I'm just starting to get off of my carbohydrate addiction and need ideas to increase "healthy" intake of protein.

In some of our past FAQ's I discuss several options for quick, easy and delicious protein shakes. Here are some more protein options: soy dogs (my favorite are Yves Jumbo Veggie Dogs - Hot & Spicy, which contain 18g soy protein per serving), soy burgers, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, low or nonfat cottage cheese, plain nonfat yogurt (look for the kind that says "live acidolphilus cultures" - these are healthy bacteria for our digestive tract).

What is the formula for how much protein I should eat per day?

While there is no magic formula, here is what many health experts recommend: Endurance athletes and body builders: 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily (150 lb. person would consume 150 grams of protein daily), Fitness enthusiast (not an athlete): 1/2 gram of protein per pound of body weight. But be careful with the fat content of many higher protein foods. Individuals with kidney disorders, check with your physician before increasing protein intake.

I have heard a lot recently about allergies to food products and wanted any information you have on this. My neighbor found out he was allergic to wheat and at the age of 23 he has made some major changes in what he eats and he feels great. Any information will help.

Food allergies are still one of the most misunderstood health problems facing us today. The symptoms can range from dark circles under the eyes (also caused by other allergies) to stomach bloating, rashes, headaches, sinus problems, weight gain and more. Most experts believe this occurs due to a weakened immune system that could be in part, genetically based. This would explain why one person can eat peanuts while a sibling is allergic to them. One simple self-test we can do is to stop eating the "presumed culprit" (wheat or corn products, nuts, tomatoes, etc.) for 14 days to see if the symptoms disappear. Another option is to add more variety to our diet — many people basically eat the same foods every day. An excellent book / cook book combined is Freedom from Allergy by Ronald Greenberg and Angela Nori (available from 1-880-634-1380) or The Yeast Connection Handbook by Dr. Crook.

Thanks to your program, I have found that my sensitivity to several different foods has been the cause of stomach and intestinal problems for over ten years. By going to lactose free and soy milk, my constant bloating and diarrhea have disappeared. I also have cut way back on refined wheat products, added more lean protein at breakfast and I feel better and more energetic. How can I get my children who never eat breakfast to do so and consume adequate protein at this meal? Is there a "healthier" regular milk I can buy them? They won't even try soy milk, probably because I rave about it. Thanks in advance.

Isn't it incredible what can happen by making a few dietary changes? I just love to read faxes like yours. Since breakfast is the most important meal for all of us, try a protein powder and fruit blender smoothie. I've given several recipes in past FAQ's you might want to check out. Entice them with 100% whole wheat English muffin or bagel pizzas . . . get creative. Breakfast does not have to be limited to breakfast foods. My favorite "healthiest" milk is put out by Farmland Dairies under the name "Special Request" milk. This milk (their skim milk version is excellent) has 37% more protein and 34% more calcium than whole milk and hormone free! No bovine hormones used at all. Call them @ 1-800-327-9522 to find a store in your area, or you can even order direct.

We have three children, two are in the normal weight range for their age and size, but our youngest is very overweight. My husband and I are active and are curious if there is concern for him at 8 years old, or will be grow out of this.

By your two addresses, I assume you travel a lot and wonder if your son has retreated into a routine of overeating due to his own inability to express feelings. That may seem like a long shot, but consider getting some help to see if there are any underlying feelings he may not be sharing. According to Dr. Charles Attwood, author of Dr. Attwood's Low-Fat Prescription for Kids: A Pediatrician's Program of Preventive Nutrition, the reason that childhood obesity has doubled since 1965 is physical inactivity and too much fat in their diet. A Tufts University study showed that overweight kids will have a death rate four times that of a normal weight child before the age of 70. It becomes increasingly difficult for children to lose this weight, the older they get. To enhance his physical activity, introduce him to new activities if he has not found something that he really enjoys that keeps him active. From swimming classes/clubs to tennis camps or Karate, there are so many options available today. What do his friends do that he might be interested in joining? Explore with him, without the pressure to excel, options that he might enjoy doing.

You recently reported on your show that the American Heart Association is endorsing cereals like Sugar Frosted Flakes. How can they do this? Why don't they endorse Grape Nuts or Shredded Wheat? This is just what we need, Americans being "duped" into thinking a food like this is healthy because of some ridiculous "seal of approval."

Isn't this ludicrous? Supposedly, one of the leading organizations promoting health enhancing techniques and products, the American Heart Association has stooped to new depths of disgust with their recent promotion venture with Frosted Flakes and other sugar laden cereals. According to Consumer Reports magazine this "heart healthy" (?) cereal consists of 42% sugar and one gram of fiber per serving. Yet the AHA was more than happy to allow its seal of approval to be placed right on the front label! Appalling! All for the almighty dollar, it seems. Let's take action here. Please take 40 seconds out of your day and let the AHA know how disgusted we are with their decision. Fax your comment to: President, American Heart Association at 214-706-2139. Thank you for making your voice heard. Any food in moderation is acceptable, but it is not acceptable to stand by and let an organization supposedly devoted to our health get away with a move like this.

  

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