The FDA has issued a nationwide alert about more than 70 weight-loss products containing undeclared active pharmaceutical ingredients. To read the whole story click on this link http://www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/weightloss_pills122908.html  

From Prevention – The Power Of The Peel

Quote: “When you squeeze a lemon (or peel an orange), save the skin. Scientist at  De- Montfort University in the United Kingdom found that a compound in tangerine peel called salvestrol Q40 kills an enzyme that spurs the growth of human cancer cells. Previous research has shown that limonene, a compound found in lemon, orange, and grapefruit peel, might also decrease cancer risk.

Prevention suggest that you zest the peel of the well washed fruit and add it to soups, baked goods, tea, or yogurt.  

Does eating fish reduce your risk of heart disease? The answer is yes and no.

Without a doubt eating fish high in omega-3 fatty acids reduces your risk of heart disease  as well as several other diseases. Unfortunately there are some fish that are higher in omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3s.

For economical reasons people are buying more farmed raised fish such as tilapia. A study conducted at Wake Forest University found tilapia high in omega-6 fatty acids and very low in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids lead to heart disease, blood vessel damage and cell aging, creating the health problems you are trying to prevent.

For the sake of your health include in your diet some mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon.

Source: Wake Forest University, Journal American Dietetic Association, and Fitness RX  

Flax Seed: Chances are this little seed has been around since time began, records show it was used for its health benefits in Ancient Greece and Rome. Although after the fall of the Roman Empire the use of flax seed was discontinued until Charlemagne came to power. He is credited with restoring the use of flax seed in Europe and it was introduced to North America in the 17th century; Canada is now one of the worlds leading producers.

There are three reasons flax seed are beneficial to your health

1. Contains alpha – linolenic acid - this makes it the best vegetable source of omega – 3 fatty acids. 2 tblsps. is 140% of your daily recommended intake.
2. High in fiber.
3. Contains lignans, which are phytoestiogens that mimic the body’s estrogen hormone.

It may surprise you to know that in North America 95% of the people are not getting enough fat – the omega-3 fatty acids that is. Without the high quality fats your body will fall apart.

1. Essential fats (this means your body can not produce these fats you have to consume them) boost energy, stamina and performance 
2. Can reduce inflammation
3. Prevents excessive blod clots 
4. Lower blood cholesterol
5. Keep your cell structure healthy
6. Prevents hardening of the arteries

This list of health benefits is long.

Many believe ground flax seed is superior to oil because nutrients as well as fiber (28%) are lost during processing.

Flax seed comes both in brown and golden colors, there is no real nutritional difference. Some people just like the taste of the golden flax seed better(it taste a little nuttier and sweeter).

1. Store flax seed in your fridge until ready to use.
2. Grind only the amount you will use in two or three days; store in an air tight container in your fridge. A small coffee grinder is perfect to grind flax seed. 
3. If you are using the oil do not heat 
4. If the flax seed smells like paint they are no longer good to use.
5. Flax seed must be ground before you eat them or they will just pass through your system.

Remember, a little quality fat is a good thing. 

  Source: Dr. Victor Marchione – The Food Doctor    

Tip from Cooking Magazine: Whole wheat flour should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 8 months or frozen up to two years. Unlike white flour, whole wheat flour contains natural oils that will turn rancid fairly quickly at room temperature.