Sunday, March 2, 2008

Natural Medicine: Good Nutrition: A matter of fact

March is National Nutrition Month, an educational campaign sponsored by the American Dietetic Association designed to focus attention on the importance of making informed nutrition decisions and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. With new research and diet recommendations coming out on a daily basis, it can be difficult to make the best food choices and many myths about nutrition continue to exist. In the spirit of National Nutrition Month, here are two common nutrition myths and facts:

Myth: It's hard to get enough protein on a vegetarian or mostly plant-based diet.

Fact: For most people in the United States, if you are eating enough calories then you are eating enough protein. In fact, the majority of Americans consume well over their required protein needs. While meat, poultry and fish are the most concentrated sources, protein is found in almost all foods. Studies show that a mostly plant-based diet can be healthy while still meeting your body's protein requirements.

Myth: Fats are bad for your heart.

Fact: Fats are a necessary part of a healthy diet. It is the types of fat you choose that is important. Saturated and trans fats, typically found in animal products and commercially prepared baked goods, respectively, can contribute to heart disease and risk of stroke. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, typically found in plant-based oils, nuts and seeds, should be included in your diet. Omega 3 fatty acids, found in such foods as cold-water fish, walnuts and flaxseeds, are specific polyunsaturated fatty acids that are known for boosting brain function and decreasing inflammation in the body. Approximately 30 percent of your total daily calories should come from healthy fat.

Source @ nwsource

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