Ask a Dietitian

Ask a Dietitian

"Diana, just a quick heads up to let you know we are still using your cookbook and the guys will often be heard saying what would Diana say about this or that....really good feed back... I made your potato salad and the oriental coleslaw on Sat. for a family luncheon and had rave reviews so thanks again."

Maeghan Henke
BC Hydro

Food As Medicine

February 18th, 2003

As seen February 18/03

No longer is food simply recognized for the calorie, carbohydrate and fat contribution it makes to health. Research is discovering a whole host of additional health-enhancing benefits within various foods. These foods are known as “functional foods.” Here are just a few examples of what promises to be more to come in the near future…

(1) Soy Protein

  • Supplies isoflavones with cholesterol-lowering, heart health and anti-cancer effects. Also shown to have numerous benefits in promoting women’s health.

(2) Olive Oil

  • A monounsaturated fat containing phenolic acids and vitamin E – helps reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol levels without negatively impacting the “good” HDL.

(3) Fish and Flax Seed

  • Full of omega-3 fatty acids – helpful in reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death.

(4) Cranberries and Purple Grapes

  • Lots of vitamin C together with anthocyanins – powerful plant chemicals with heart health benefits.

(5) Pink Grapefruit and Tomatoes

  • Sources of lycopene – currently the hottest plant chemical around. Gaining fame for it’s heart health and anti-cancer effects.

(6) Oranges, Orange Juice and Green Leafy Vegetables

  • Full of folic acid – helps reduce heart disease risk by lowering levels of homocysteine – an amino acid linked to clogged arteries. Folic acid plays a special role during pregnancy too. These foods are also full of beneficial potassium, vitamin C and other nutrients.

(7) Whole Grains

  • Known for their fibre, they also contain antioxidants, minerals and phytoestrogens that all work to prevent heart disease and cancer.

(8) Garlic and Onions

  • Supply the plant chemical allycin. Reduce risk for heart disease and various cancers.

(9) Hot Spicy peppers

  • The “hot stuff” called capsaicin helps lower blood pressure and minimize risk of certain cancers.

(10) Strawberries, Blueberries and Rasperries

  • Rich in vitamin C, folic acid and potassium. High in pectin, a soluble fibre that helps control cholesterol. Also provide anti-cancer bioflavonoids.

Watch for the Eating for Energy segment every Tuesday on Global TV’s Noon News Hour!