Health/Fitness Tip of the Week #2

Excessive consumption of soft drinks has contributed to the epidemic of childhood obesity. The high fructose corn syrup in the drinks has potentially disruptive effects on metabolism and may further promote weight gain because it behaves in the body more like fat than glucose, the blood sugar derived from other sweet foods. Fructose in this form may interfere with the process by which the body tells us we are full.

Sodium benzoate has been used for decades in carbonated drinks. The headlines in May 2007 reported on a British researcher who suggested that sodium benzoate can turn off key parts of DNA, an effect that could lead to cirrhosis of the liver, Parkinson's disease and other degenerative disorders. Peter Piper, a professor of molecular biology and biotechnology at Britain's Sheffield University, warned that sodium benzoate can severely damage DNA in the mitochondria (the "power stations" inside cells). Dr. Piper's sensational charge made headlines worldwide and generated calls, especially in Britain, for further investigation. He may be right that modern methods reveal a danger that prior testing couldn't have identified.

Fitness:

Healthy eating is simply a matter of planning. If you want a snack, limit calories or fat somewhere else. If you crave that special christmas dessert, enjoy a small portion and limit other high-fat foods. Learning to follow, and maintain, a healthy eating plan is challenging this time of year, but if you remember three things you'll do fine

• Variety--different foods make eating a pleasure, so keep variety in your choices;
• Balance--if you plan for high fat and high cal choices you can still maintain a healthfy eating pattern and get the nutrients you need; and finally,
• Moderation--this point will make or break the other two. Any foods in excess will hinder a healthful plan, but enjoying all choices in smaller amounts will make holiday eating special.

Hope you enjoy your new tip of the week!!

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H&F Dev.Team