September 1, 2002- Boost your Back
If you are firing up the grill this week, throw on some salmon. It could help keep your heart in the pink.

Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, a kind of fat recently linked to a reduced risk of coronary heart disease death. In a study of people with seemingly healthy hearts, those with high blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids were over 80% less likely to die from heart failure compared to people with low omega-3 blood levels.

Eating at least 1 serving of fish per week can help reduce your chances of cardiovascular diseases.  Not a big fan of fish?  Essential fatty acids or fish oils, in a capsule form as a supplement can also help.
SOURCE: University of Minnesota, ©2002

September 8, 2002- Long-Term Gains
If you have joint pain in your knees, a small amount of discomfort after exercising now might mean less knee pain later.

Although osteoarthritis knee pain may temporarily increase following exercise, experts say that this pain increase is typically short-lived and that, over time, regular exercise leads to greatly diminished osteoarthritis knee pain. Just remember to stick to low-impact activities, such as walking or swimming, and ask your doctor about acute pain.

A physical activity program that builds stamina, strength, and flexibility can help reduce further chances of injury to soft tissues and joints.
SOURCE: University of Missouri, ©2002

September 15, 2002- Dairy Delight
A dairy-rich diet may have the power to protect against certain kinds of cancer.

Researchers believe that the calcium in dairy products may play a protective role in warding off ovarian cancer. In a recent study, women who consumed the most calcium-rich dairy products, including low-fat and nonfat milk, had about half the risk of ovarian cancer that women who ate very little dairy had.

Getting 1,200 milligrams of calcium and 400 IU of vitamin D daily in both men and women, has been associated with a reduced risk of disease, including colon cancer and osteoporosis.
SOURCE: American Journal of Epidemiology, ©2002

September 22, 2002- Sweet on Sweet Potatoes
Improve the health of your arteries by baking some sweet potatoes for supper.

Research suggests that diets high in vitamin E-rich foods, such as sweet potatoes, may be associated with a reduced risk of the artery disease atherosclerosis. In one study, the neck arteries of women who had the highest dietary intake of vitamin E showed the fewest signs of atherosclerosis.  A vitamin E supplement can also be taken on a daily basis to help ward off atherosclerosis.

Getting 400 IU of vitamin E per day can help reduce your chances of cardiovascular diseases.
SOURCE: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, ©2002

September 29, 2002- The Bees Knees
Trading in that spoonful of sugar for a squeeze of honey could help boost your antioxidant intake.

Research reveals that honey may be a good source of disease-fighting antioxidants. Of the seven honeys tested in a study, the darkest-colored honeys, such as buckwheat honey, tended to be the richest source of dietary antioxidants. Use it instead of sugar to sweeten cereal, toast, or tea.

Getting the right amount of antioxidants through diet or supplements can help reduce your chances of serious cardiovascular diseases.
SOURCE: Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry, ©2002