Latest news with #AmyGoodson
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Yogurt vs. Greek Yogurt: Which creamy delight loves your gut, heart, and taste buds more?
The Subtle Science Behind the Spoon Nutritional Face-Off: Protein, Sugar, and the Big Picture You Might Also Like: Which is healthier, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese? Experts settle the debate Health Benefits That Go Beyond the Bowl You Might Also Like: Chia seeds vs Flax seeds: Which superfood packs a bigger health punch? It's Not About Picking a Winner For centuries, yogurt has been a staple on breakfast tables and in lunchboxes, celebrated for its creamy texture, tangy taste and versatility. From ancient Turkish writings in the 11th century that praised its fermented magic to today's supermarket aisles stocked with endless varieties, yogurt's appeal has only grown. But in the health-conscious 21st century, a new contender has risen to challenge its throne — Greek which one truly deserves a place in your daily diet? Reports from USA Today and Healthline shed light on how these two dairy darlings compare in nutrition, taste, and yogurt begins with milk, live bacterial cultures such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, and fermentation until it reaches its signature tang. It's lightly strained (or not strained at all), resulting in a softer consistency and slightly higher calcium yogurt takes things further. After the initial fermentation, it's strained multiple times to remove much of the whey, creating a thicker, creamier, and tangier product. This process requires significantly more milk, which is partly why Greek yogurt often costs varieties are packed with probiotics — the 'friendly' bacteria that support gut health, digestion, and immunity. According to dietitian Amy Goodson (The Sports Nutrition Playbook), yogurt is also a source of protein, calcium, B vitamins, potassium, phosphorus, and Greek yogurt edges ahead is protein content. It offers more protein and less sugar (in plain form) than its regular counterpart and about half the carbohydrates. However, it's usually lower in calcium and can be higher in calories. As nutrition expert Lisa Young (Finally Full, Finally Slim) points out, 'The best choice depends on your preferences and dietary needs.'Studies cited by Healthline highlight yogurt's role in lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol, and even supporting heart health. In people with high blood pressure, two or more servings of yogurt weekly were linked to a lower risk of stroke. Probiotics in yogurt may also help with weight management by promoting a healthier gut microbiome and improving feelings of Greek yogurt may be more tolerable for those with lactose intolerance thanks to its lower lactose yogurt shines in smoothies, salad dressings, and marinades, adding creaminess without overpowering other ingredients. Greek yogurt, with its rich thickness, works beautifully in dips like tzatziki, as a substitute for sour cream, or in baking for a moist, dense regular and Greek yogurt offer valuable nutrients and health benefits. The choice often comes down to your goals — more protein and creaminess? Go Greek. Higher calcium and a lighter texture? Stick with remember: flavored varieties can be loaded with added sugars that diminish their benefits. Nutritionists recommend opting for plain versions and adding your own natural sweeteners, like fruit or honey.
USA Today
11-06-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Mocktails are on the rise. But are they actually better for you than alcoholic beverages?
Mocktails are on the rise. But are they actually better for you than alcoholic beverages? Show Caption Hide Caption Booze be gone! How to take a break from alcohol for Dry January Clinical psychologist Dr. Ali Mattu explains how to commit to Dry January and manage social situations involving alcohol. Self Improved Two decades ago, approximately 72% of young adults in the U.S. reported drinking alcohol regularly. Today, that number has dropped to 62% among adults under age 35, according to Gallup polling data. Several factors contribute to this shift, including the growing popularity of the "sober-curious" movement and wellness trends like Dry January. But beyond social trends, many young adults are intentionally choosing to abstain from alcohol to better relationships or for personal, economic, religious or health reasons. In short, they are breaking with the drinking habits of previous generations. One increasingly popular alternative? Mocktails. These thoughtfully crafted, alcohol-free beverages are making their way onto bar menus, dinner tables and celebrations everywhere. Here's what mocktails are, why they've become so popular and whether switching to them really is better for your health. What are mocktails? Blending the words 'mock' and 'cocktail,' a mocktail is a non-alcoholic drink that replicates the look, feel, experience and sometimes even the flavor of traditional cocktails – minus the booze. But mocktails are usually more than flavored soda. They often feature layered, sophisticated flavors made from 'fruit juices, muddled herbs like mint or basil, alcohol-free bitters, infused syrups, sparkling water and non-alcoholic tonics or spirits,' says Amy Goodson, a nutritionist and registered dietitian at The Sports Nutrition Playbook. "Garnishes such as fruit slices, herbs or spice rims often enhance flavor and visual appeal." Did you read? Will the sober-curious movement take off? Why are mocktails popular? For many, mocktails provide the best of both worlds: The ability to enjoy a celebratory or social beverage without the side effects or risks associated with alcohol. Mocktails are also typically more affordable than alcoholic beverages, and they're accessible to everyone, including those who are pregnant, individuals with religious or dietary restrictions, designated drivers and those recovering from substance use. Mocktails make it possible for any such people "to celebrate together without the need for alcohol," says Jen Messer, a nutrition consultant and registered dietitian at Jen Messer Nutrition. Their growing appeal has even prompted many bars and restaurants to create dedicated alcohol-free drink menus and have bartenders and mixologists trained to craft zero-proof options with the same creativity and care as their spirited counterparts. Don't focus on 'good' or 'bad' food. Your lifestyle habits are key to a heart-healthy diet. Are mocktails a healthier option than alcoholic beverages? While mocktails can contain added sugars or high-calorie ingredients, they are generally considered a healthier alternative to alcoholic beverages. This is primarily due to their lack of alcohol, a substance linked to a wide range of health issues, including liver disease, sleep disruption, hypertension and certain cancers. 'Even low levels of alcohol consumption have been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer,' notes Messer. Alcohol also acts as a diuretic, which contributes to dehydration. In contrast, "most of the ingredients in mocktails help maintain better hydration,' says Goodson. Mocktails also have the advantage of not impairing your judgment or motor skills the way alcohol can. And they make it possible to still enjoy a social experience without the risk of accidents, poor decisions or waking up with a hangover. This allows mocktails to help you "enjoy a night out without sacrificing the next day," says Messer. At the same time, moderation still matters. Like other trendy foods, "mocktails may give off a 'halo effect,'' warns Messer. 'Since they contain no alcohol, some people may view them as 'healthy' and may consume more than they would of alcohol-containing beverages.' This is ill-advised as mocktails can still be high in sugar and empty calories, and mocktails with energy boosters like matcha or green tea may also contain caffeine "which can affect sleep and increase heart rate," warns Goodson. So long as such considerations are kept in mind though, she says mocktails are "a fun, inclusive option."
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Kroger May Be Charging You Too Much for Groceries, Consumer Reports Says
You may be paying more than you should at a major grocery store chain. Kroger grocery stores have a problem with their price tags, resulting in shoppers paying full price for some items that are labeled as being on sale. The issue was uncovered by Consumer Reports during a three month-long investigation. Consumer Reports started examining prices after employees at Kroger stores in Colorado, during union negotiations, said that errors on price labels have been a problem for years. They said price tags aren't always removed when a sale or promotion ends, so shoppers pay full price for items that have expired discount or sale tags. The chain has also been the subject of class-action lawsuits alleging pricing errors in California, Illinois, Ohio, and Utah. Kroger owns other stores, including Fred Meyer, Fry's, Harris Teeter, and Ralphs. Read More: A Food Editor's Secret To Saving Time and Money at the Grocery Store In March, April, and May, Consumer Reports sent people shopping at more than two dozen Kroger and Kroger-owned stores in 14 states and the District of Columbia. The shoppers found sale labels that had expired, resulting in overcharges on more than 150 items. The report found an average overcharge of $1.70 per item, or 18.4 percent. 'Our findings suggest the typical Kroger shopper ends up paying far more for what they think are discounted items—all during a time of inflation and economic uncertainty,' Consumer Reports wrote. Experts who were asked to examine the findings told Consumer Reports that the price label mistakes could be in violation of federal and state laws that protect consumers. Kroger responded to Consumer Reports that the company is 'committed to affordable and accurate pricing' and that it reviews 'millions of items weekly to ensure our shelf prices are accurate.' The company told Consumer Reports, 'While any error is unacceptable, the characterization of widespread pricing concerns is patently false.' Read More: This One Trick Will Cut Your Grocery Bill, According to a Grocer's Daughter Store employees quickly corrected shopping errors when they were pointed out, according to Consumer Reports, but likely many shoppers unknowingly overpaid at the checkout. To make sure you're paying the prices you're supposed to, be savvy when shopping. Registered dietitian and health consultant Amy Goodson offers these tips. Use self-checkout. 'If you are personally doing the food scanning, you can keep track of the prices and if the discounts are showing up appropriately,' Goodson says. Pay attention. Watch the prices, particularly for sale items and produce that is charged by weight. But you really have to be alert at the end of the transaction. 'Typically, discounts are subtracted when you select 'pay now,' so make sure those items reduce in price when you check out.' Double-check coupons. If you're using coupons—in the app or physical coupons—make sure they all scan at the end. Speak up. If you think something scanned incorrectly, point it out immediately. 'It's easier to fix on the spot than after you leave the store,' Goodson says. Read the original article on SIMPLYRECIPES
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Your April produce guide: The fruits and vegetables in season right now, from arugula to strawberries
Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes more fresh in-season fruit and veggie options to add to your produce drawer. Eating foods that are 'in season' (aka when produce is in its natural growing cycle) not only tastes more flavorful, but it's also better for you and the environment too. In-season foods are often more nutrient-dense, with higher vitamin and antioxidant content; they also tend to be cheaper and have a smaller carbon footprint because they don't need to travel long distances to get to your grocery store. In April, we can still expect to see the citrus fruits that were in season last month, such as oranges, lemons and grapefruit. Here's what else is new: Carrots Radishes Strawberries Rhubarb Artichoke Arugula Mark your calendar for International Carrot Day on April 4! This cool-season crop is the sixth most consumed fresh vegetable in the U.S., and while peak harvests are in the spring and fall, spring carrots in particular have an extra-sweet flavor. Nutritional profile: One carrot has: 16 calories 0.4 g of protein 0.1 g of fat 3.8 g of carbohydrates 14 mg of calcium 0.2 mg of iron 108.1 mg of potassium Health benefits: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), fiber and vitamin K — and as your mom probably told you, they're associated with better vision and can even help protect your skin from UV damage (although it's not a substitute for sunscreen). Check out these recipes: Amy Goodson, a registered dietitian, tells Yahoo Life you can enjoy carrots raw with hummus, roasted for a caramelized side dish, shredded into salads or blended into soups. Here are some other suggestions: A dietitian's personal favorites. Try Goodson's own recipe for roasted carrots with garlic, walnuts and goat cheese (a great side dish to accompany any meal) or use carrots in this easy stir-fry dish that's easy to whip up on weekdays. Carrot cake (with an unexpected ingredient). The best thing about carrots? It's a healthy vegetable that also doubles as a killer dessert. There's no shortage of tantalizing carrot cake recipes (try some of these). but if you want the secret to the moistest carrot cake of all time, try baking it with buttermilk. Gwyneth Paltrow's ginger carrot soup. Still a spring chill in the air where you live? All the more reason to cook up a batch of the 'Goop' founder's own carrot soup recipe. While you can find radishes year-round, April to May is peak season for this crunchy, colorful vegetable. And if you're wondering why they have a bit of a kick, it's because they're related to wasabi — a type of Japanese horseradish. Nutritional profile: One medium-size radish has: 0.7 calories 0 g of protein 0 g of fat 0.2 g of carbohydrates 1.1 mg of calcium 0 mg of iron 10.5 mg of potassium Health benefits: Radishes are low in calories and high in vitamin C and antioxidants. They also contain cancer-fighting properties, and their high fiber content helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. Check out these recipes: Amy Kimberlain, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, tells Yahoo Life she encourages people to experiment with different ways of prepping radishes and other produce, like enjoying them cooked (roasted, sautéed or steamed) or raw in salads and even as on-the-go snacks. Goodson adds that radishes make an excellent addition to salads, tacos, grain bowls or even pickled 'for a tangy topping.' Check out these other ideas: A colorful in-season salad. For a recipe that's as eye-catching as it is tasty, try this colorful mandarin and rainbow radish salad recipe. (Good news: mandarins are still in season, too!) Radishes — 'the French way.' Leave it to the French to understand that simple is often best. Just spread some butter on fresh, raw radishes and sprinkle with salt to enjoy radishes 'à la française.' Whole roasted radishes. Pop them in the oven with some olive oil and minimal seasoning, and enjoy alongside chicken or salmon. In most states, strawberries will begin to sprout up from April to June, with a few warmer states experiencing strawberry season even sooner. California and Florida produce most of the strawberries in the U.S., with California responsible for over 91% of the crop. Nutritional profile: 5 large strawberries have: 29 calories 0.6 g of protein 0.3 g of fat 6.9 g of carbohydrates 14 mg of calcium 0.4 mg of iron 137.7 mg of potassium Health benefits: Strawberries are a popular fruit for a reason; in addition to being delicious, they're packed with antioxidants and support heart, gut and brain health. One study showed that regular strawberry intake was associated with a 34% reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. Check out these recipes: Goodson recommends adding strawberries to yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies, or salads — 'or use in homemade jams and salsas.' Try these strawberry recipes: There's no shortage of strawberry desserts (including shortcake!) Check out Yahoo Creator Katalin Nagy's collection of strawberry-themed dessert recipes, including strawberry lasagna, strawberry tiramisu and strawberry shortcake cupcakes. Enjoy a taste of history with these strawberry dumplings. In its Lost Recipes feature, The Montgomery Advertiser shared this collection of strawberry recipes throughout history, including a recipe for strawberry dumplings that's been around since 1894! A 4-ingredient strawberry jam. This easy recipe for strawberry jam only has four ingredients and can be ready in less than an hour. Rhubarb may look like a veggie, but this tart, celery-like plant is actually a fruit that's most plentiful in the spring and early summer. Roxana Ehsani, a sports dietitian, tells Yahoo Life it's 'perfect for making springtime desserts or adding to charcuterie boards.' Nutritional profile: One stalk of rhubarb has: 11 calories 0.5 g of protein 0.1 g of fat 2.3 g of carbohydrates 44 mg of calcium 0.1 mg of iron 146.9 mg of potassium Health benefits: Rhubarb is a good source of vitamin C and K, antioxidants and fiber. It was traditionally used for medicinal purposes such as treating fever, stomach aches and constipation, as far back as 5,000 years ago in ancient China. Just remember that while the rhubarb stalks you'll find at the grocery store are safe to eat, the leaves can be toxic. Check out these recipes: From desserts to entree options, rhubarb is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ideas: Make Ireland's Roscommon Rhubarb Pie. Ireland has more culinary offerings than corned beef and cabbage or soda bread. Try this traditional rhubarb pie recipe for a seasonal treat. Indulge in a rhubarb and lime rickey cocktail. Move over, Bloody Mary; This gin-based cocktail makes good use of some rhubarb for a refreshing cocktail that's both sweet and sour. Try some savory rhubarb dishes. Rhubarb isn't all desserts (though those are definitely a favorite). These healthy and quick rhubarb recipes serve up some savory options, such as a pork and rhubarb skillet, and linguine with garlic, pepper and rhubarb. March through May is peak season for artichokes — a vegetable that's actually the flower of a thistle plant. If you're in California, you're in luck, with nearly 100% of U.S. artichoke produced in the Golden State. Nutritional profile: One medium artichoke has: 64 calories 3.5 g of protein 0.4 g of fat 14 g of carbohydrates 25 mg of calcium 0.7 mg of iron 343.2 mg of potassium Health benefits: Lisa Moskovitz, founder of NY Nutrition Group and author of The Core 3 Healthy Eating Plan, tells Yahoo Life that spring is the perfect time to enjoy artichokes — which 'are the leading source of fiber in the veggie family.' One medium artichoke has about 10 grams of fiber, or about 40% of your recommended daily intake, which aids digestion and protects against heart disease. But that's not all: Artichokes also have the highest amount of antioxidants of any vegetable, which are great for your immune system and skin. Check out these recipes: Artichokes can be 'added to a bowl with sauteed spinach, full-fat Greek yogurt, chopped garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt and other seasonings for a yummy dip — or as a spread on whole grain toast,' Moskovitz says. Here are some other ideas: The artichoke basics. If you're an artichoke novice, you may need a quick how-to on cutting and trimming the leaves to prep for cooking. Check out these easy instructions, as well as the basics on boiling, steaming or grilling. A cheesy app. For an unforgettable appetizer, try your hand at these cheesy stuffed artichokes, which are delicious on their own or dipped in marinara sauce. 'The king of all party foods.' Who doesn't immediately go for the spinach artichoke dip at parties? For a killer take on everyone's favorite spread, try this recipe, which is ready in under an hour. Arugula (also known as 'rocket' in Ireland and the U.K.) is technically part of the mustard family, and not a lettuce. Ehsani says you can expect to see more of it in April, along with other leafy greens like kale. Nutritional profile: One cup of arugula has: 5 calories 0.5 g of protein 0.1 g of fat 0.7 g of carbohydrates 32 mg of calcium 0.3 mg of iron 73.8 mg of potassium Health benefits: Arugula is considered a 'superfood' because it's full of nutrients, including phytochemicals, that may help prevent certain cancers. It's also high in vitamin K, which promotes heart and bone health and helps with blood clotting. Check out these recipes: Ehsani suggests shaking up your salads by using arugula in place of lettuce. 'It tastes delicious and has a peppery flavor that pairs well with a simple vinaigrette of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and Parmesan shredded on top,' she says. Here's what else you can try: The perfect topping. Arugula is an excellent pizza topper, but this arugula and prosciutto flatbread recipe is a great alternative to a whole pie. There are instructions on making your own dough, or feel free to buy readymade flatbread in a pinch. A peppery pasta. For a pasta dish with a bit of a peppery kick that can easily be whipped up on weeknights, try this creamy mushroom pasta by Yahoo Creator Giangi Townsend. 'Sunshine in a bowl.' There are so many great arugula salad possibilities, but this arugula, grapefruit and avocado recipe — which Yahoo Creator Ale Graf calls 'sunshine in a bowl' — is the perfect way to herald the start of spring.
USA Today
25-03-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Too much stress can be hard on your body. Here's how supplements can help.
Too much stress can be hard on your body. Here's how supplements can help. Show Caption Hide Caption An expert explains what it means to be in a 'parasocial relationship' Do you ever feel stressed out when a celebrity you admire goes through a breakup? You might be a part of a "parasocial relationship." When it comes to preventative health recommendations, few are more common than admonitions to get one's stress levels down. Such recommendations make sense considering that experiencing too much stress has been linked to a host of adverse health outcomes like premature aging, poor sleep quality and hair loss to digestive issues, a weakened immune system and even cardiovascular disease. While there are many ways of measuring how much stress a person may be dealing with, the most reliable biomarker for stress estimation is one's cortisol levels. Here's what cortisol is, and how it can be lowered or better regulated through lifestyle modifications or dietary changes related to food or supplementation. What is cortisol? Often referred to as the "stress hormone," cortisol is an important hormone that the body produces in the adrenal glands, which are located atop the kidneys. Because the chemical is triggered whenever you experience a stressful event and supports the body's fight-or-flight response, it's often thought of in a negative way. But its production can also be a good thing as cortisol helps to "regulate metabolism, improve focus and provide energy," says Amy Goodson, a nutritionist and registered dietitian at The Sports Nutrition Playbook. It also plays a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and in stabilizing blood sugar levels. What makes the hormone worrisome is when it's released too often or for extended periods of time. "Cortisol is good in the short-term, but if cortisol levels remain high for too long, it can start to have detrimental effects," says Marc Dingman, a biobehavioral health scientist at the Pennsylvania State University. More on cortisol: What is cortisol? All about the 'stress hormone' and what it does for the body How to lower cortisol Avoiding overproduction of cortisol starts by avoiding the things that cause stress and by employing relaxation techniques such as "deep breathing, meditation and mindfulness," says Goodson. She adds that regularly engaging in moderate-intensity exercise can also help regulate the hormone—and prioritizing seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night "can also help balance cortisol levels." Dingman adds that psychotherapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and increasing your amount of social interaction are also proven ways to lower your cortisol levels. Learning effective time-management skills, listening to soothing music, spending more time in nature and positive self-talk are other examples of "a number of stress-relieving techniques that are effective in managing stress," he says. Feeling stressed? Tips for how to reduce stress in your daily life What supplements lower cortisol? Balanced dietary choices and supplementation can also play a role in reducing stress. This starts with cutting down on sugar and caffeine intake and "avoiding substances like alcohol and nicotine," Dingman says. Eating more of the foods associated with stress reduction is also important. "Foods that may help reduce cortisol levels include dark leafy greens because they are rich in magnesium and B vitamins, fatty fish that are high in omega-3s, citrus fruits and bell peppers because they are high in vitamin C and complex carbohydrates like whole grains because they help stabilize blood sugar," Goodson says. She also praises probiotic foods like Greek yogurt and kefir for supporting gut health and recommends getting enough dairy, lean meat and eggs. These nutrients in supplement form can also be helpful to take if recommended by one's primary care provider or dietitian. "The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements may help regulate stress and inflammation, potentially lowering cortisol," says Goodson. "And taking magnesium could also play a role in relaxation and may help lower cortisol levels, particularly in individuals with deficiencies." She adds that B vitamins like B5, B6, B9 and B12 support adrenal function and neurotransmitter production, "which can help regulate cortisol levels and reduce stress." And Dingman points to supplements like phosphatidylserine and ashwagandha for being helpful in modulating the body's stress response. While taking any such supplements may be helpful, "supplementation should not be the first or only approach to managing stress," advises Goodson. "It's best to focus on dietary improvements and lifestyle changes first as supplements are not a substitute for healthy habits."
