Let's Do It Healthy

October 25, 2004

Listen to your mom; veggies will enhance your workout. Most veggies contain pantothenic acid, an essential nutrient that helps you stay fit and alert. This essential part of your diet contributes to the production of amino acids, helps metabolize fat and assists in the manufacture of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that carry messages in the brain.

To get the most from garlic, you may have to rough it up a little. When you cook garlic, cut it, smash it and then let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows plenty of time for the formation of garlic's mother compound, allicin, the sulfur compound that gives garlic its unique potential benefits, including an ability to inhibit blood clots. Raw and cooked garlic may reduce elevated blood cholesterol and blood pressure. In population studies, people who eat more alliums (garlic family members) have lower rates of stomach and other cancers; indeed, just one clove of garlic a day can lower the risk. Raw garlic and onion kill bacteria and fungi, making them natural antibiotics. When buying garlic, choose firm heavy heads and store in an open container in a cool, dry place.

Want to boost your fiber, but your favorite breakfast cereal doesn't make the grade? If the total fiber per serving is less than 3 grams (check the Nutrition Facts panel), mix your favorite half and half with a higher-fiber one such as bran flakes or shredded wheat. Bonus tip: Pour skim or 1% milk over your cereal to keep your fiber-rich breakfast a low-fat, healthy start to your day!

“Diet” teas often contain natural diuretics, substances that promote the elimination of sodium and water from the body. Much of the weight loss resulting from the consumption of these teas is water weight, not fat. Excessive use of diuretics in any form can cause dehydration and decrease your body’s stores of electrolytes. A healthier alternative is to drink more water!