Diet and Health

      "You are what you eat" as the old adage goes. Each year, nutritionists add to the list of foods that are good or bad for your health. Generally speaking, fruits and vegetables are thought to be effective in helping to prevent certain diseases. Some experts feel that a "plant based diet" is the healthiest way to eat.  Many of these experts are members of the Vegetarian Resource Group.  On the other side of the coin, many nutritionists agree that meat, more importantly protein, is an important part of a healthy diet.  And then what about the question of  the amount of fat in one's diet.  Are there "good" fats and "bad" fats?  How much fat should we consume?  Most guidelines recommend between 15 - 30 percent a day.  But this does not take into account certain medical conditions.  Each individual is different and their needs are different, depending on age, lifestyle, family history, gender, etc.   

    The issue of vitamins, antioxidants, and isoflavins, also plays a part in promoting good health.  Should we be taking massive doses of vitamin supplements, or is eating a healthy balanced diet enough?  Are there "superfoods"? Certain fruits and vegetables are said to help aid in digestion, help lower blood cholesterol, even help lower the risk for certain cancers.

    The following websites offer a source of information in helping to "weed through the hype" that we are presented with on nearly a daily basis through television, magazines, news articles, and the current popular celebrity who is promoting his or her new diet plan.    

Vegetarian Resource Group	Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services
American Dietetic Association	Council for Responsible Nutrition
American Institute for Cancer Research	Nutritional Site

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Comments to Sybil Stokols
Last updated July 19, 2001