Friday, April 10, 2009

Health Tips for April 10

Health Tip: Plan Ahead for Healthy Meals

Many people have the best intentions when it comes to cooking and eating healthy, but late nights at work and juggling family schedules can make it a challenge.

The American Diabetes Association says you should carefully plan your meals. It offers these suggestions:

  • Create a menu for the week ahead.
  • Shop for the ingredients in advance. You should never use "not having the time to shop" as an excuse.
  • Always keep a healthy supply of ingredients on hand, including olive and vegetable oil, chicken broth, frozen fruits and veggies, seasonings, healthy canned sauces and fish.
  • Keep junk food out of the house. Instead, have healthy snacks available to grab when you or family members are hungry.
  • Cook enough healthy food for leftovers or additional meals.
  • Try not to eat out too often.

Health Tip: Your Body Needs Zinc

Zinc is an important mineral found in almost every cell in the human body.

The U.S. National Institutes of Health says that zinc stimulates the activity of approximately 100 enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body.

Zinc supports a healthy immune system, is needed for wound healing, helps maintain your sense of taste and smell and is needed for DNA synthesis. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence.

Zinc is found in lots of foods, and oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other. But if you can't get your hands on oysters or don't like them, there many alternatives.

Red meat and poultry provide the majority of zinc in the American diet. Other good food sources include beans, nuts, certain seafood, whole grains, fortified breakfast cereals and dairy products.

Zinc absorption is greater from a diet high in animal protein than a diet rich in plant proteins.

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