Thursday, June 12, 2008

Health Tips for June 12

Health Tip: Getting Calcium If You're Lactose Intolerant

People with lactose intolerance should restrict their intake of dairy foods and other sources of lactose, which include foods containing whey; curds; milk by-products; dry milk solids; and nonfat dry milk powder.

But then how do you get enough bone-enriching calcium?

While it's best to check with your doctor, here are some calcium-rich foods that are probably safe for the lactose-intolerant, provided by the University of Virginia Health System:

* Leafy green vegetables such as broccoli and kale.
* Fish such as salmon and sardines.
* Yogurts with active cultures, which can help make the yogurt easier to digest.
* Foods rich in vitamin D, such as eggs and liver, which help the body absorb calcium.

Health Tip: Taming a Sweet Tooth

Dieting doesn't mean that you have to completely give up desserts. It just means that you should opt for healthier alternatives.

The American Diabetes Association offers these dessert options when you're dieting or trying to watch your sugar and fat intake:

* Try fresh or dried fruits to soothe your sweet tooth.
* Have only a small portion of one of your favorite desserts.
* When ordering at a restaurant, choose a dessert to share with the people accompanying you.
* When baking, reduce the amount of fat and sugar you use in your recipes.
* Choose low-fat and low-sugar alternatives to your favorite desserts.

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