[HelpPeople]

[Wellness Section]

[Sleep]

[Proper Computer Work Positions Checklist]

[Nutrition: Fact or Fiction]

[Diabetes Rate Soars]

[Nutrition in Exercise and Sport]

[Food @ You]

Nutrition scientists are discovering new diet and health associations at a fast rate. You've heard about the fat, salt and calories What about the health benefits of red wine, chocolate and tomatoes? To help improve health habits, accurate information must be communicated to everyone. Confused by all the headlines announcing the latest research news? To help sort out junk science from real science, use the "10 Red Flags of Junks Science."

1. Recommendations that promise a quick fix.
2. Dire warnings of danger from a single product or regime.
3. Claims that sound too good to be true.
4. Simplistic conclusions drawn from a complex study.
5. Recommendations based on a single study.
6. Statements refuted by reputable scientific organizations.
7. Lists of "good" and "bad" foods.
8. Recommendations made to help sell a product.
9. Recommendations based on studies not peer reviewed.
10. Recommendations from studies that ignore differences among individuals or groups.

So, what is the healthy way to eat? The US Department of Health and Human Services has established "Dietary Guidelines for Americans." These guidelines were established many years ago and updated periodically. The guidelines will now be updated every five years to reflect current research.

THE GUIDELINES ARE:

1. Eat a variety of foods-variety is the spice of life – it is also the basis for a healthy diet.

2. Balance the foods you eat with physical activity; maintain or improve your weight- If weight loss is the goal: reduce caloric intake and increase the number of calories used by engaging in appropriate, moderate physical activity.

3. Choose a Diet with Plenty of Grain Products, Vegetables and Fruit- Most Americans do not consume adequate amounts.

4. Choose a Diet Low in Fat, Saturated Fat and Cholesterol- A diet low in total fat can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease, obesity, and certain kinds of cancer.

5. Choose a Diet Moderate in Sugars- Sugars in foods are either naturally occurring or added, and there are no differences in the way these two sugar sources are used by the body.

6. Choose a Diet Moderate in Salt and Sodium- In general, fresh and plain frozen vegetables and fruit, fresh meat, fish and poultry are lower in sodium than canned and processed varieties.

7. If You Drink Alcoholic Beverages, Do So In Moderation- Adults who choose to drink alcoholic beverages should do so only when there is no associated risk.