All About Probiotics

HEALTHY CHOICES, HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BY BARBARA B. MINTZ, MS, RD Doctors commonly prescribe taking probiotics to “repopulate” the digestive tract with healthful bacteria. Bottom line, the good bacteria help “crowd out” bad bacteria. We usually think of bacteria as something that causes diseases. But did you know that your body is full of bacteria, both good and bad? Probiotics are often called “good” or “helpful” bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy. These organisms […]

COMMUNICATION The Social ‘Nutrition’ Behind Healthy Kids with Special Needs

BY KAREN KABAKI-SISTO, M.S. CCC-SLP With these suggestions, your child can develop healthy practices that become automatic, natural customs to feel a sense of independence, control, and accountability. It’s a new year, and a lot of us vow to eat healthier and exercise more as we realize its importance to our well-being. However, some children with special needs may view good health and fitness as tedious, punishing tasks that are forced upon them. With the […]

How to Make Heart-Healthy Food Choices

HEALTHY CHOICES, HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BY BARBARA B. MINTZ, MS, RD Eating a heart-healthy diet pays big benefits, like better cholesterol and blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and weight. While chicken wings, pizza and soda might tempt your palate from time to time, think twice! High-fat, high-calorie foods may lead to cardiovascular disease and other heart conditions. Your best weapon of defense is maintaining a healthy diet and making healthy choices. While fad diets tell you […]

Childhood Obesity: Parents Have the Power to Foster Change!

HEALTHY CHOICES, HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BY BARBARA B. MINTZ, MS, RD As parents you are helping your children learn a life skill that they will take into their adulthood, keeping them healthy and well throughout the lifespan. Good news! There is increasing evidence that obesity rates are stabilizing for adults and children. Unfortunately, the rates are still high, putting millions of Americans at risk for increased health problems. It’s disappointing to hear that rates of severe […]

Back to School with Delicious and Nutritious Fruits and Veggies!

HEALTHY CHOICES, HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BY BARBARA B. MINTZ, MS, RD Your kids will learn far more from what you do than what you say. If they see you shopping, cooking and eating fresh fruits and vegetables, they will do the same. Did you know that September is Fruit and Vegetable Month? A few years ago, the National 5 A Day program became the national Fruit and Vegetable Program and launched a new public health initiative […]