February 26, World Pistachio Day

Pistachios were introduced in the United States in the 1930s. Today, California produces more than 400 million pounds of pistachios each year making it a leading producer of pistachios worldwide. Each pistachio tree averages around 50 kg of seeds, or around 50,000, every two years.

Pistachios Offer Multiple

Health Benefits

Pistachio nuts, eaten as part of a healthy diet, can increase the levels of antioxidants in the blood of adults with high cholesterol, according to Penny Kris-Etherton, Penn State professor of nutrition, along with an international team of nutritional scientists. Previous research has shown that pistachios also lower lipids and lipoproteins, which benefits heart health.

Pistachio's Public Image

Lucy does it with a kick. See how Lucy and Charlie Brown of the Peanuts gang get snackin' with Wonderful Pistachios.

To learn more about the Pistachio, visit the following links:
Website. The Green Nut
Website. Pistachio Health
Event.  World Pistachio Day
Twitter. Wonderful Pistachios @getcrackin
Facebook. Wonderful Pistachios

National Eating Disorders Awareness WeekFebruary 24 - March 2, 2013

This year's National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (#NEDAwareness) theme is "Everybody Knows Somebody" because eating disorders do not discriminate – anyone can be effected.

NEDA supports individuals and families affected by eating disorders, and serves as a facilitator for prevention, cures and access to quality care.

Mission
“The aim of NEDAwareness Week is to increase outreach and awareness of eating disorders and body image issues, while reducing the stigma surrounding eating disorders and improving access to treatment resources. Eating disorders are serious, life-threatening illnesses - not choices - and it's important to recognize the pressures, attitudes and behaviors that shape the disorder.”

NEDAwareness Week is committed to raising awareness of eating disorders. The goal of outreach efforts leads to a greater chance of people seeking out resources and help for an eating disorder - which saves lives.

How You Can Help

NEDA provides resources to help raise awareness and provide accurate information about eating disorders. Visit the NEDAwareness Week website for numerous ways to get involved.

Tweet About It

§ Eating disorders aren’t just about food- they can also be about stress, depression & perfectionism, but there is hope and help. myneda.org

§ You are not alone. #NEDAwareness

§ Skipping meals, hating your body & obsessing about food are signs of disordered eating, call 800-931-2237 to talk about it

§ Do constant thoughts about food & exercise interfere w/ your life? It could be an eating disorder. Call 800-931-2237 to talk about it

§ 35% of dieters develop disordered eating. If you’re worried about yourself or a friend, call 800-931-2237 to get help

§ #NEDAwareness is 2/24-3/2. Eating disorders can be deadly but recovery is possible. Visit myneda.org for info

§ Not ready to talk about it? Chat about it with NEDA Click to Chat option. Visit Find Help @myneda.org

§ Eating Disorders don’t discriminate, they effect all ages, sexes, ethnicities, races and every socio-economic status - You are not alone.

§ Early intervention for an eating disorder could save your life. Don’t wait to get help- find out more @myneda.org or call 800-931-2237

§ For #NEDAwareness cultivate body appreciation! What has your body done for you lately? Take a moment to say thanks

Facebook Posts

§ NEDAwareness Week 2013 starts today/has begun! This year I’m (fill in an activity or event you are organizing, e.g. “hosting an all-sizes fashion show”). It will take place on (date) at (location and time). I hope you’ll join me!

§ People don’t choose to get an eating disorder, but you can choose to get help. Recovery is possible. This week is National Eating Disorders Awareness week: Go to www.nationaleatingdisorders.org or call 1-800-931-2237 to find help and information.

§ Not ready to talk about it? Try NEDA’s new Click to Chat feature. Visit the Find Help & Support section on www.nationaleatingdisorders.org to let someone know what you are feeling.

§ Constantly thinking about calories, exercise and your weight are signs of disordered eating. If you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one call 1-800-931-2237 or visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for more information.

§ It’s National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorder are serious mental illnesses but recovery is possible. Visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for more information or to find an event near you!

§ Everybody Knows Somebody affected by an eating disorder- whether it’s a friend, partner, family member or you’ve suffered. If you’re worried about an eating disorder, talk to someone you care about or call 1-800-931-2237 for help and information. Visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org to learn how to help a friend.

§ Did you know over half of people diagnosed with an eating disorder have an “eating disorder not otherwise specified” (ENDOS)? This means most people struggling don’t exactly fit into the categories of Anorexia Nervosa or Bulimia Nervosa but may still have some symptoms of each, or may be struggling with Binge Eating Disorder.

§ Weighing yourself frequently, feeling out of control with food, and feeling like you have to work-out to “burn” calories could be signs of an eating disorder. Millions of men and women struggle with disordered eating but help is available. Call 1-800-931-2237 or visit: www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for more information.

Eating disorders cut across socioeconomic lines and affect people at all stages of life. This talk focuses on how eating disorders are diagnosed, their prevalence, and current treatments.

Resources and Support
National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) provides education, resources and support for those individuals and families affected by eating disorders, and serves to prevent, cure and access quality care. NEDA sponsors events, programs and research on eating disorders, and contains a section on its site featuring recent news articles and information.

NEDA TOOLKIT for Educators 

Academy for Eating Disorders (AED). The Academy for Eating Disorders aims to provide comprehensive information on the facts of eating disorders, treatment plans and education to prevent others from developing eating disorders.

Alliance of Eating Disorders Awareness was created as a source of community outreach, education, awareness and prevention of the various eating disorders. Their goal is to spread the message, recovery from these disorders is possible, and individuals should not have to suffer or recover alone.

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.  Provides nutrition resources about eating disorders, including an extensive nutrition reading list.

Obesity Society is the leading scientific society dedicated to the study of obesity. They are committed to encouraging research on the causes and treatment of obesity, and to keeping the medical community and public informed of new advances. AOA provides obesity awareness and prevention information.

Andrea's Voice Foundation (AVF) is dedicated to promoting education and understanding toward the prevention, identification, diagnosis and treatment of disordered eating and related issues. The site has a section for poetry, a blog, media, presentations and ways you can help.

Binge Eating Disorder Association (BEDA) is the national organization focusing on increased prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for Binge Eating Disorder.

BodyImageHealth.org introduces a model for a healthy body image and provides a variety of resources to help children and adults develop a positive body image, effective eating habits, nutritional health, fitness and weight.

Council on Size and Weight Discrimination, Inc. An activist group influencing public opinion and policy through education, information and networking.

Eating Disorders Anonymous (EDA). A 12 step self-help fellowship for anorexics and bulimics. EDA offers membership to any person who needs help recovering from an eating disorder. The site has meetings around the United States, publications, recovery information, EDA news and helpful links to other sites.

Eating Disorders Coalition.  The goal of Eating Disorders Coalition is to "advance the federal recognition of eating disorders as a public health priority." The nonprofit organization lists the federal policy on its website, congressional briefings, events, information/resources on eating disorders and a blog.

Eating Disorders Information Network (EDIN) is a nonprofit organization committed to the prevention of all types of disordered eating, from obesity to anorexia, and the promotion of positive body-esteem through education, outreach and action.

Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center (EDRIC) includes links to sites which provide additional information on eating disorders and related topics.

Eating Disorders Resource Center (EDRC) is a non-profit organization that links resources, information and support for eating disorders in Silicon Valley. The mission of EDRC is to increase awareness and understanding of eating disorders for the general public and health professionals; to promote early diagnosis, effective treatment, and recovery; and to advocate for mental health legislation and effective insurance coverage. EDRC offers a comprehensive, online resource directory.

F.E.A.S.T.  Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders is an international organization providing support to families and friends of those suffering from eating disorders. The site announces events and conferences, groups around the world, treatment providers, online caregivers and current news.

Fed Up Girl is a non-profit foundation educating young girls on body image, self-esteem and balanced living to prevent eating disorders. Founded in Los Angeles by two women who recovered from years of battling eating disorders, the program is available free of charge to groups of girls age 6 to 17. The program is tailored for each age group and provides access to some of the most current research in creating positive body image and self-esteem.

Healthy Weight Network provides information and resources pertaining to “health at any size”.

International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (IAEDP) is well recognized for its excellence in providing education and training standards to an international multidisciplinary group of various healthcare treatment providers and helping professions, who treat the full spectrum of eating disorder problems.

Kristen Watt Foundation provides support for those suffering with eating disorders. The site has sections for parents, friends and coaches. They are dedicated to increasing awareness of eating disorders, education and treatment.

Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association (MEDA) is a nonprofit organization working to prevent and treat eating disorders. Their aim is to do this through early detection and increased public awareness. This site has events listed, resources and a place for individuals to join the organization.

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) seeks to alleviate the problems of eating disorders by educating the public and healthcare professionals, encouraging research, and sharing resources on all aspects of these disorders. Their website includes information on finding support groups, referrals, treatment centers, advocacy and background on eating disorders.

National Association for Males with Eating Disorders, Inc. (N.A.M.E.D.) is dedicated to offering support to and public awareness about males with eating disorders.

National Institute of Mental Health: Eating Disorders provides information on anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, the affect eating disorders can have on men, treatment options and helpful resources and links.

Perfect Illusions. Discover what an eating disorder is, find help and resources, and look into the lives of several individuals and their families who are struggling with the consequences of anorexia and bulimia.

The Renfrew Center. Residential treatment facility specializing in eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorders) and related mental health issues. The Renfrew Center is a women's mental health center with locations in Philadelphia and Radnor, Pennsylvania; Coconut Creek, Florida; New York City; Old Greenwich, Connecticut; Ridgewood, New Jersey; Charlotte, North Carolina, Nashville, TN, Dallas, TX, and Bethesda, MD.

Something Fishy.  The website gives detailed information on most aspects of eating disorders, such as defining them, preventing them, finding treatments and paying for recovery.

Womenshealth.gov The National Women's Health Information Center is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The site has information on body image, cosmetic surgery, eating disorders, and a list of links to various informational websites.

Books

February is National Grapefruit Month

Grapefruits come in many varieties. The most popular assortments are red, white, and pink colors. The flavors range from bitter to sweet and tart. The grapefruit was introduced to Florida in the 1820s. Today, most grapefruits are still grown in Florida.
 
Grapefruit is an excellent source of many nutrients and phytochemicals that contribute to a healthy diet. Grapefruit is a good source of vitamin C, which helps support the immune system. It also contains the fiber pectin, and the pink and red colors contain antioxidant lycopene.Lycopene appears to have properties that help fight oxygen free radicals, which are compounds that can damage cells. Studies have shown grapefruits help lower cholesterol, and there is evidence that the seeds have antioxidant properties. 

Storage. If you plan on using grapefruits withing a week, store them at room temperature. If you are planning on using them after a week, store grapefruits in the refrigerator crisper where they will keep fresh for two to three weeks.

Grapefruit Active Lifestyle Meal Plan

Preparing Grapefruits 

1. Grapefruits should be rinsed under cool water before consuming. The peel may contain dirt or bacteria that may reside on the skin's surface.
2. Grapefruits are usually eaten fresh by slicing the fruit horizontally and scooping out sections of the halves with a spoon.
3. To separate the flesh from the membrane you can cut it with a sharp knife, a special curved-blade grapefruit knife, or a serrated grapefruit spoon.
4. If there are seeds, you can remove them with your spoon before you eat the grapefruit.
5. Grapefruits can be peeled with your hands or with a knife. If using a knife, start at the top, make a vertical incision that runs downward and then back up to the top on the other side and then repeat so that there will be four sections of similar size. Be careful to only cut through skin and not into the membrane. The skin can then be peeled back with your hands or with the knife.

How to Peel and Segment a Grapefruit

Grapefruit juice interaction
with drugs can be deadly

References: 
1. Fruits and Veggies, More Matters. Grapefruit 
2. Wikipedia. Grapefruit 
3. The World’s Healthiest Foods: Grapefruit.
4. CBCNews. Grapefruit juice interaction with drugs can be deadly.

Increasing number of drugs interact dangerously with 'forbidden fruit'

 

Sneak Preview March is National Nutrition Month “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day”

March is National Nutrition Month® (NNM), a nutrition education and information campaign created annually by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Academy). The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. The March 2013 theme for National Nutrition Month® is “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day.” 

The theme recognizes food preferences, lifestyle, cultural, ethnic, traditions, and health concerns all impact individual food choices. Registered dietitians play a critical role in helping people eat right, your way, every day. 

This year marks the 40th anniversary of National Nutrition Month®.

Health Benefits of Kindness

World Kindness Week, February 11-17, 2013

Random Act of Kindness:  A selfless act performed by a person or persons wishing to either assist or cheer up an individual or in some cases an animal. There is no reason other than to make people smile, or be happier. Either spontaneous or planned in advance, random acts of kindness are encouraged by various communities.

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation

Established in 1995 as a nonprofit organization, The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is a resource for people committed to spreading kindness. The Random Acts of Kindness™ Foundation inspires people to practice kindness and to “pass it on” to others. They provide a wide variety of materials on their website, including activity ideas, lesson plans, project plans, teacher’s guide, project planning guide, publicity guide and workplace resources - all free of charge. 

The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is the United States delegate to the World Kindness Movement, an organization that includes various nations. People in these countries promote kindness within their countries’ borders and are creating a global network of kindness and compassion. As people from different cultures and from all walks of life are joining to spread kindness, they are creating a powerful, synergistic action throughout the world.

Health Benefits of Kindness

Studies have shown acts of kindness can result in physical and mental health benefits.
• Kindness can bring a sense of richness and fulfillment to our lives, and promote good health and longevity.
• Helping others can decrease the effect of diseases.
• After performing an act of kindness many experience a feeling of euphoria followed by a period of calm.
• Acts of kindness have shown to reduce feelings of stress, depression, loneliness, overeating, etc.
• Helping others increases self-worth, happiness and optimism.
• A person feels more energetic after performing an act of kindness
• A more optimistic and happier outlook on life

Kindness is not only something that has positive benefits for ourselves,

it is something that has a positive effect on the community.

As people tap into their own generous human spirit and share kindness with one another, they discover for themselves the power of kindness to effect positive change in their lives and the lives around them. When kindness is expressed, healthy relationships are created, community connections are nourished, and people are inspired to pass kindness on.

February 16, National Almond Day

Health Benefits of

Almond Safety

Almond pasteurization became mandatory for the California almond industry on September 1, 2007, and was implemented on a voluntary basis over the previous two years. All almonds must be pasteurized before being sold to consumers in North America.

Pasteurization

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with a technical review panel comprised of almond scientific experts, are responsible for evaluating and approving the treatment processes that demonstrate effectiveness in achieving a reduction of possible contamination in almonds while not impacting their quality and sensory attributes. To date, FDA has approved oil roasting, dry roasting, blanching, steam processing and propylene oxide (PPO) processes as acceptable forms of pasteurization for almonds. Organic almonds will be pasteurized using treatments, such as steam pasteurization, that meet the USDA Organic Program’s national standards. Other forms of pasteurization continue to be researched, evaluated and tested. ABC worked over several years with leading experts and weighed all perspectives and issues in developing this industry-wide pasteurization plan.

Resources

Almond Board of California

Almonds, From Wikipedia

Happy Valentine's Day with Heart Healthy Foods

A Collection of heart shaped and heart healthy foods with
special valentine messages for a heart healthy life.

Wishing you love, laughter, health and friendship.

February is Fabulous Florida Strawberry Month

To highlight this beautiful and delicious fruit, the Florida Strawberry Growers Association has created a series of educational resources, starring Jammer, the Strawberry.

Jammer the Strawberry and Nutrition

Jammer's Strawberry Fashion Show

Florida Strawberry Food Handling Tips

from Strawberry Sue

In 1982, the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (FSGA) was officially formed. This organization became a voice for Florida strawberry growers. The mission for the handful of farmers was to become "partners in research, promotion and member/community service”.

FSGA is a non-profit organization located in the city of Dover, which is a part of Hillsborough County, Florida. It is the parent company of the Florida Strawberry Patent Service and the Florida Strawberry Research and Education Foundation.

Over the years, the growers have formed a voluntary organization representing over 8,000 acres of berries. Hillsborough County, Florida produces about 15 percent of the nation’s strawberries and virtually all the berries grown during the winter. The 18 million flats produced each year, if placed end to end, would extend from Plant City, Florida to Seattle, Washington and back again.

Hillsborough County, Florida is recognized as the "Winter Strawberry Capital of the World and the home of some of the sweetest, reddest and juiciest strawberries around."

Strawberry Sue is the home of the FSGA blog. Sue Harrell, known affectionately as Strawberry Sue, is FSGA’s director of marketing, seasoned strawberry grower and the voice of the blog.  Sue will keep you informed and inspired. You’ll find helpful strawberry-related links, year-round news from the fields, special events and easy to prepare strawberry recipes.

Strawberry Sue demonstrates how to make an Edible Strawberry Bouquet
(not just for Valentine's Day)

Visit the FSGA website for additional information, including research, educational resources, recipes, events and contact information.

Recipes
Healthy Strawberry Recipes and Tips. EatingWell has a selection of fresh and delicious strawberry recipes, such as



Green Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese. Per serving: 215 calories; 17 g fat; 4 mg cholesterol; 15 g carbohydrates; 5 g protein; 4 g fiber; 209 mg sodium.

Arugula and Strawberry Salad. Per serving: 204 calories; 16 g fat; 7 mg cholesterol; 10 g carbohydrates; 7 g protein; 3 g fiber; 251 mg sodium.

Abraham Lincoln’s Favorite Foods and Dietary Habits

Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809. He served as the 16th President of the United States from March 1861 until his assassination in April 1865. The photos of Abraham Lincoln show a man who was tall and slender.

What did he eat while he led the country through the American Civil War,  ending slavery and promoting economic modernization?

Helen Dupre Bullock, Historian of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, wrote "Authorities agree that Lincoln was indifferent to food, not particularly knowing or caring what was placed before him, whether it was cold or hot, and even whether he ate it or not. If not reminded of meal times he forgot them." Lincoln was usually so preoccupied with problems of politics he gave little thought to food unless faced with it.

In the White House, President Lincoln’s eating habits were irregular. For breakfast, he would have an egg, a piece of toast and coffee, if he remembered to eat. Lunch consisted of “a biscuit, a glass of milk in winter, some fruit or grapes in summer,” wrote John Hay, an aide to President Lincoln. “He drank nothing but water, not from principle, but because he did not like wine or spirits.

President Lincoln was fond of certain foods, especially apples, and Mrs. Lincoln always had plenty of apples available. One of his favorite meals was fresh fruit and nuts, cheese and crackers. Some sources note, President Lincoln did have two favorite dishes, Chicken Fricassee with Biscuits and Oyster Stew. His favorite dessert was Apple Pie.

References
Lincoln's Table, by Donna D. McCreary, contains 125 recipes of foods the Lincolns enjoyed, including flannel cakes (pancakes) and corn bread. The book provides stories about Abraham Lincoln's childhood and background information about many ingredients used in the recipes, as well as photos and menus. The recipes, though historically authentic, have been converted to modern-day measurements.

Abraham Lincoln’s Health

Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

February 11, National Shut-In Visitation Day Your Visit Can Make a Big Difference

People who are shut-in may be lonely, have difficulty going to the market, 
cooking meals and/or eating. 

Your visit can make a big difference.

Most recently with Hurricane Sandy and the unpredictable weather conditions; we became aware of a large number of disabled and elderly people trapped in their homes and apartments (some trapped over 16 stories high.)

How you can help.

Stories from the Heart

If you are interested in helping there are numerous programs available, such as:

Meals-on-Wheels Programs (check your local listing)
Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program
Check local religious organization.

February 9, National Bagel and Lox Day Bagel Terminology and Nutrition Information

General Bagel Rules

*1 ounce of a bagel equals 80 calories (most bagels weigh about 3 ounces).
*Scooped, when the inside of the bagel is removed (Saves about 40 to 80 calories). 
*Smear equals about one to two tablespoons of cream cheese.

Joy Bauer, RD takes us through the bagel's history from its start in the royal palace of Poland, to the streets of Manhattan's Lower East Side to the plates of millions of Americans. Find out what's in a bagel and how you can enjoy the bagel without the guilt.

Meal Planning

February 6, 2013 National Girls and Women in Sports Day Resources in Sports Nutrition and Dietetics

From the National Girls and Women in Sports Day 

On February 6, 2013, thousands of sports educators, coaches, athletic directors, recreation directors, association members, sponsors, students, and parents across the country will show their support of the Day and of this year's theme, "Girls in Sports, An Investment in the Future."

Mission of the National Association of Girls and Women in Sport (NAGWS) is to develop and deliver equitable and quality sport opportunities for all girls and women. 

National Girls and Women in Sport Day (NGWSD) History
NGWSD is celebrated in all 50 states with community-based events, award ceremonies, and activities honoring the achievements and encouraging participation of girls and women in sports.

NGWSD began in 1987 as a day to remember Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her athletic achievements and her work to assure equality for women's sports. NGWSD has evolved into a day to acknowledge the past and recognize current sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation, and the continuing struggle for equality and access for women in sports.

NGWSD is jointly organized by the National Girls and Women in Sport Coalition. The Coalition combines the experience and resources of four premiere girls- and women-serving organizations in the United States: Girls Incorporated,  the National Association for Girls and Women in Sport,  National Women's Law Center, and the Women's Sports Foundation.

Significant Events in the Law
NAGWS has served girls and women in sport for more than a century. A  variety of programs have been initiated to prepare teachers and coaches to work with female students and to challenge individuals and institutions to look at how they do business each day. 

In January 2013, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a Dear Colleague Letter clarifying school’s obligations under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Rehab Act) to provide extracurricular athletic opportunities for students with disabilities. The OCR’s announcement underscores our belief that every student, regardless of sex, means, race, religion… and ability, should be able to reap the benefits of sports.

Specifically, the Dear Colleague Letter does the following for schools:
1. Clarifies when and how schools must include students with disabilities in mainstream athletic programs
2. Defines what true equal treatment of student athletes with disabilities means
3. Encourages and provides a road map for schools to create adapted programs for students with disabilities
Title IX/gender equity issues have been a long-time focus of NAGWS programs through programs like Backyards and Beyond or National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). 

Get Involved
Community Action Kit  Download
The Community Action Kit is designed to help you plan, organize, promote and host NGWSD activities. It is available only in an online publication format.
· A short introduction to the Day
· An advocacy section
· A step-by step planning checklist
· Publicity tips to help get your event recognized

The Importance of
Nutrition in Sports Resources

Lisa Dorfman, Director of Sports Nutrition and Performance at the University of Miami featured on NBC to discuss key ingredients to a successful sports nutrition eating plan.