Let's Do It Healthy

December 22, 2004

The latest research indicates that a potassium-rich diet may lower stroke risk. A study involving approximately 44,000 men found those who consumed the most potassium in food, about nine servings of fruit and vegetables per day -- had a 38 percent lower risk of stroke than men who consumed the least (about four servings).

So-called "enhanced" drinks may have less than meets the eye. The amount of ginseng in your water, ginkgo in your iced tea or echinacea in your juice is far below the recommended levels claimed to affect energy, memory, immunity or anything else. The problem for drinkmakers: Often, adding enough would affect taste.

Eating healthy doesn't mean you can never eat fast food again. The key is understanding what you're ordering. Grilled chicken sandwiches and salads with low-fat dressing are good choices to keep calories in check. Request nutrition information at the restaurant, which will help you make informed decisions. It may surprise you to learn a large burger with fries has more artery-clogging saturated fat than nutritional guidelines suggest you should eat in an entire day!

Going on a business trip? Make a pact with yourself to exercise -- it's easy when you plan ahead. Before you leave on your next trip, call health clubs in the area you'll be visiting and find one that offers a day pass. Ask the hotel concierge to suggest safe running/walking routes near your hotel, and maybe provide maps. Or, simply walk to a room on a higher floor, and you won't need to reserve a stair climber in the gym.