Latest news with #LaurenManaker
Hindustan Times
11 hours ago
- Climate
- Hindustan Times
Extreme heat grips US Southwest, health experts recommend ditching caffeine and alcohol
As temperatures soar across the American Southwest, authorities are urging residents to make smarter choices, starting with what they drink. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Las Vegas has issued an extreme heat warning for Wednesday and Thursday, covering parts of California, Arizona and Nevada. The alert, which includes do's and don'ts, encourages people to stay indoors during the hottest hours, use sunscreen and hydrate frequently. The advisory comes ahead of the Father's Day weekend, where similar conditions are expected to persist. While a morning cup of coffee might be routine, health experts say it may not be ideal during a heatwave. Speaking to Fox News Digital, Lauren Manaker, a dietitian-nutritionist based in South Carolina, shared insights on how beverages can affect hydration. 'When it's really hot outside, it's a good idea to think twice before reaching for that cold beer or cocktail,' Manaker said. She explained that alcohol acts as a diuretic, leading the body to lose more fluids than it takes in. This can quickly worsen dehydration, especially in hot weather. Not only that, but alcohol can also interfere with the body's ability to cool itself, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Manaker added that moderate caffeine intake, such as one cup of coffee or tea, doesn't significantly dehydrate most people, provided they are drinking enough water. However, larger amounts can have a mild diuretic effect. Hydration, it turns out, isn't just about water. According to Manaker, milk is one of the most effective hydrating beverages due to its natural electrolyte content and nutritional profile. A 2016 study by the University of St. Andrews School of Medicine in Scotland reportedly confirmed that fat-free milk outperformed all other drinks in hydration, with whole milk placing third. Coffee ranked last in the study. The NWS also cautioned against eating heavy meals during extreme heat. Foods that are harder to digest can raise internal body temperature and leave people feeling lethargic. Parts of California, Arizona and Nevada. Both can lead to dehydration. Alcohol is a strong diuretic and affects temperature regulation. Not usually. But higher quantities without enough water may contribute to dehydration. Water, milk, and high-water-content foods like watermelon.
Fox News
16 hours ago
- Climate
- Fox News
Americans told to avoid coffee during extreme heat warning in 3 states
Americans are being advised to avoid drinking coffee in three states where "extreme" temperatures are being forecast this week. The National Weather Service in Las Vegas issued an extreme heat warning for Wednesday and Thursday in portions of California, Arizona and Nevada. A social media post from the National Weather Service included a "do" and "don't" graphic. The National Weather Service encourages people to stay hydrated, use sunscreen for protection and plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day. It also cautioned against drinking alcohol and caffeine and eating heavy foods. A similar warning was also issued for Father's Day. "When it's really hot outside, it's a good idea to think twice before reaching for that cold beer or cocktail," Lauren Manaker, a registered dietitian-nutritionist in South Carolina, told Fox News Digital. "Alcohol can actually make it harder for your body to stay hydrated." Alcohol is a diuretic, "which means it makes you lose more fluids than you take in," Manaker said. So it leaves you "more at risk for dehydration." "Plus, it can interfere with your body's ability to regulate temperature, making you feel even hotter and potentially leading to heat exhaustion or worse," Manaker said. Moderate consumption of caffeinated beverages like coffee or tea "doesn't drastically increase your risk of dehydration," Manaker noted, "and for many people, it can still be part of their daily routine, even in hot weather." "Caffeine can act as a mild diuretic when consumed in larger quantities." "It's important to consider the quantity when consuming caffeinated beverages," Manaker said. "One cup of coffee or tea is unlikely to cause significant dehydration for most individuals, especially when balanced with adequate water intake throughout the day." But it's still "important to pay attention to how your body reacts," Manaker said. "Caffeine can act as a mild diuretic when consumed in larger quantities." One "surprising hydrating choice" to consider is milk, Manaker said. "Research has found that milk actually hydrates better than water or sports drinks." "Research has found that milk actually hydrates better than water or sports drinks," she said. "This is because milk is packed with natural electrolytes like potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium, along with carbohydrates and protein, which help your body recover and retain fluids after exercise." A 2016 study from the University of St. Andrews School of Medicine in Scotland revealed that fat-free milk was the top hydrator, while whole milk was the third-best performing of the drinks tested. Coffee was the least hydrating, according to the study. The National Weather Service also advised against eating heavy foods that "can be harder for your body to digest, and on a very hot day, this can leave you feeling sluggish and overheated," Manaker said. "When you eat a large, heavy meal, your body has to work harder to break it down, which can actually raise your internal temperature," she said. "This extra effort might make it even tougher to stay cool in the heat." Instead, Manaker said, try lighter meals with fresh ingredients like salads, grilled vegetables or lean proteins. They're "easier on your system and can help you feel more energized and comfortable." Watermelon is another "excellent choice," Manaker said.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
A Nutritionist Reveals the Number-1 Food to Eat to Lower Inflammation
Chronic inflammation interferes with your body's normal functions and may increase your risk for some serious health issues, like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and even certain cancers. Various lifestyle habits contribute to inflammation levels, but if you're looking to tamp down on inflammation in your body and lower your risk of developing certain health conditions and diseases, there's one nut that's worth considering adding to your menu to lower inflammation, naturally: walnuts. Meet the expert: Lauren Manaker M.S., R.D.N., L.D. 'Walnuts are an excellent source of anti-inflammatory nutrients, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. They are the only nut that is considered to be an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) omega-3 fatty acid,' Lauren Manaker, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., previously explained while describing foods that fight inflammation. 'Some data suggest that because of the ALA content, walnuts may have anti-inflammatory effects. Data published in Antioxidants suggests that walnuts also contain several urolithins, which are compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Beyond omega-3s and urolithins, walnuts also contain polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that may combat oxidative stress, which often contributes to chronic inflammation.' While snacking on walnuts has its benefits, if you're truly looking to make some serious strides towards lowering inflammation, you'll want to adjust your eating patterns by opting for an anti-inflammatory diet. The diet involves 'a pattern of eating focused on incorporating nutrient-dense, whole foods that support your body's natural defenses,' according to Manaker. 'This dietary pattern is about abundance—more colorful plants, more healthy fats, and fewer ultra-processed, sugary, and fried foods.' Think: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish rich in omega-3s, such as salmon and mackerel. Check out more about combatting inflammation through food in Prevention's 28-day Anti-inflammatory Diet. You Might Also Like Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss? Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
6 Fruits That Have More Antioxidants Than Green Tea, According to Registered Dietitians
Antioxidants are vital for overall health, but each type plays a different role in keeping us healthy. While green tea is a strong source of antioxidants, many fruits provide equal or greater antioxidant benefits. Eating a variety of antioxidant-rich foods like berries, apples, plums, and pomegranates is a great way to support your eyes are on antioxidants these days as many of us equate the term with healthfulness—and rightfully so! But what are they, exactly? 'Antioxidants are natural compounds that help protect your body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals,' says Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD, a Charleston-based registered dietitian. Free radicals are molecules often at the root of many acute and chronic illnesses Americans face. 'Antioxidants may help protect us from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and brain decline,' adds Lori Barrett RDN, LD, registered dietitian. These compounds support immune health from other angles, too. 'Antioxidants have fantastic anti-inflammatory properties,' shares Barrett. But antioxidants are unique from other food-based nutrients and compounds in that there are dozens of different types, from micronutrients like vitamins C and E, to plant compounds like polyphenols. This can make the antioxidant landscape kind of confusing, as each antioxidant benefits our health in specific ways. 'For example, polyphenols can help feed some of our gut bacteria that produce beneficial short chain fatty acids to support brain health, immunity, anti-inflammatory, energy, gut health, disease states, and even weight loss,' says Barrett RDN, LD, a registered dietitian based in Florida Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD, a Charleston-based registered dietitianThe sheer amount of antioxidants can also make deciphering rich food sources more convoluted. One easy way to clear this up is by comparing options to a high antioxidant source, like green tea. 'Green tea is a fantastic source of antioxidants, specifically a group known as catechins, with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) being the most noteworthy. These catechins have been studied for their ability to reduce inflammation, support brain health, and even play a role in cancer risk reduction,' explains Manaker. One cup of green tea can contain anywhere between 50 and 100 milligrams (mg) of catechins depending on how it's grown, harvested, processed, and brewed. But green tea isn't the only place to find high levels of antioxidants. 'They can be found in vegetables, fruits, seeds, nuts, oils, and drinks, too,' shares Barrett. In fact, there are plenty of fruit options that are actually higher in antioxidants than green tea. Though amounts can vary depending on growing, harvesting, and processing conditions (just like green tea), here are six tasty fruits that are not only all-around nutrition VIPs, but boast an equal or higher amount of antioxidants than a single cup of green tea: Antioxidant Content: 57-82 mg per small apple (150 grams)50-75 mg from polyphenols7 mg from vitamin C The term an apple a day keeps the doctor away certainly rings true when you consider the impressive antioxidant quality of this popular fruit. Some of the polyphenol antioxidants you'll find in apples include quercetin and phenolic acids, but this fall favorite is also packed with vitamin C—another popular antioxidant—all equating to incredible immune support. The high fiber and water content of this fall harvest favorite also boosts gut, metabolic, and cell health. Apples are delicious dipped into yogurt or peanut butter, as well as added to smoothies, baked goods, and oatmeal. Antioxidant Content: 151-426 mg per ¾ cup (100 grams)130-405 mg from polyphenols21 mg from vitamin C Oftentimes, the darker the fruit, the more antioxidant-rich it is. 'Purple and blue-colored fruits typically have higher concentrations,' Barrett agrees. And blackberries are no exception. These brilliant purple fruits are loaded with antioxidants like anthocyanins, flavanols, phenolic acids, and vitamin C to help ward off chronic diseases as well as your everyday common cold. But the tiny seeds and skins of these berries also mean that they're super high in fiber—in addition to the impressive amounts of potassium and vitamin A they boast. These nutrients combine to support gut, heart, and eye health. Whether muddled into cocktails and mocktails, or added to yogurt bowls, chia pudding, or intriguing marinades, there's no shortage of tasty ways to enjoy blackberries. Antioxidant Content: 46-146 mg per 1/3 cup (100 grams)15-115 mg from polyphenols31 mg from vitamin C Citrus fruits, like grapefruit, are well-known sources of the antioxidant vitamin C but many may not realize all the other antioxidants this bitter citrus offers. High in flavonoid and phenolic acids, alongside fiber, vitamin A, folate, and potassium, grapefruit champions immune, gut, heart, eye, and metabolic health. If not enjoyed by the spoonful (ideally not doused in too much sugar!), grapefruit makes for an interesting smoothie, baked good, and salad addition. Antioxidant Content: 168-488 mg per 1 cup (100 grams)160-480 mg from polyphenols8 mg from vitamin C Similar to blackberries, blueberries are one of the most antioxidant-dense foods you can find—they're dark blue color is a dead give away. Anthocyanins and quercetin are some of the most notable polyphenol antioxidants found in blueberries, though they're also chock-full of manganese and vitamin K, boosting bone and heart health. Blueberries are fantastic in whole grain pancakes or waffles, smoothie bowls, homemade jam, and even glazes for proteins like chicken and turkey. Antioxidant Content: 132-242 mg per medium-sized plum (100 grams)130-240 mg from polyphenols2 mg from vitamin C Though often forgotten about, plums are not only super tasty, but incredibly nutritious as an impressive source of antioxidants like phenolic acids and anthocyanins—as well as vitamin C. Plus, they offer plenty of vitamin A, vitamin K, and fiber for better eye, bone, heart, and gut health. These fruits can usually only be found fresh in season (mid-summer). However, their dried counterparts, prunes, can be found in whole or juiced form all year-round to support digestion and immunity. But regardless of whether you opt for fresh plums, dried prunes, or prune juice, these ingredients can be added to salads, dressings, a range of beverage recipes, and baked goods. Antioxidant Content: 240 mg per ½ cup juice240 mg from polyphenols0 mg from vitamin C Pomegranates are almost synonymous with antioxidants nowadays thanks to Big Pom's savvy marketing campaigns. But this isn't false advertising by any means, pomegranate juice and arils are chock-full of antioxidants like ellagitannin. Meaningful amounts of folate and potassium are also found in this popular fruit to boost energy metabolism, hydration, and heart health—and the arils are full of fiber for more regular digestion. Pomegranate juice is *chef's kiss* when enjoyed as is or added to mocktails and cocktails, and pomegranate arils are the perfect standalone snack or addition to yogurt, oatmeal, and salads. 'A spinach salad tossed with berries and pomegranate is a home run for your body, too,' adds Barrett. Read the original article on Real Simple
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
7 Foods to Stock Up on at Costco If You Have High Blood Pressure, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDFoods found on the DASH diet provide fiber, potassium, omega-3s and more. Costco carries many dietitian-approved DASH diet-friendly foods including oats, nuts and berries. Other lifestyle factors like sleep, exercise and staying hydrated also help manage blood half of American adults have high blood pressure—a preventable and treatable risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The good news is, changes to your diet and lifestyle habits can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease, and the DASH diet is a great place to start. Plus, you can shop for everything you need at your favorite neighborhood big box store—Costco! Unlike ultra-restrictive fad diets, the DASH diet encourages: Eating vegetables, fruits and whole grains Including fat-free or low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, and vegetable oils Limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, such as fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils such as coconut, palm kernel and palm oils Limiting sugar-sweetened beverages and sweets In this article, we'll cover dietitian-recommended foods to stock up on at Costco for high blood pressure. Canned tuna is a convenient, affordable way to incorporate more protein into your meals and snacks. 'Tuna is also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids,' says Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD. Eating healthy omega-3 fats like DHA and EPA is linked to lower blood pressure. Plus, studies show that eating a variety of proteins from different sources—think meat, fish, beans and whole grains—can lower the risk of developing high blood pressure., 'Safe Catch Ahi Tuna is a convenient option available at Costco. It stands apart from other tuna brands because it guarantees a mercury level lower than the FDA action limit,' adds Manaker. Try our Lemon-Dill Tuna Salad between two pieces of whole-wheat bread as a sandwich or with tender Bibb lettuce. One serving has almost 30 grams of protein and less than 500 milligrams of sodium. 'Kirkland Signature unsalted mixed nuts are a great pantry staple to keep on hand for those looking to control or lower their blood pressure,' says Beverly Garden, RD, LDN. A 1-ounce serving contains no sodium, making it a great snack choice. About 70% of the sodium in our diet comes from packaged and processed foods, like many convenient snack foods. There's also 190 mg of potassium in a serving. That's only about 5% of your daily needs but it's still an added benefit, especially as a sodium-free snack. Research shows that consuming enough potassium, about 4,700 mg daily, is key to promoting healthy blood pressure. According to Garden, a potassium-rich diet can help manage blood pressure in two simple ways. First, it helps your body eliminate extra sodium through urine, which can reduce blood pressure. Second, potassium helps blood vessels relax, making it easier for blood to flow and lowering pressure in the blood vessels. 'Nuts are also a good source of fiber, and eating a high-fiber diet is associated with lower blood pressure,' says Garden. 'Costco is a great place to buy affordable, high-quality oils for cooking and salad dressings,' says Dana Taylor, M.P.A., RDN, LD. 'Look for extra-virgin olive oil, which supports healthy blood pressure, heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.' Studies show that olive oil's high oleic acid and antioxidant polyphenol content are beneficial for lowering blood pressure, and that's why it's often recommended as one of the best fat choices for hypertension. Looking for inspiration on how to use this heart-healthy oil? Check out our 13 Healthy Homemade Salad Dressings Made with Olive Oil or this Olive Oil-Braised Summer Squash. Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a quick and healthy dinner. Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is a dietitian-approved Costco favorite for lowering blood pressure. 'With 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein per serving, quinoa makes a great addition to any salad, grain bowl or stir-fry,' says Ana Pruteanu, M.S., RD. Consuming a diet high in fiber, at least 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men daily, can help you manage high blood pressure. 'Gut microbes digest fiber, which creates short-chain fatty acids, health-promoting compounds with antihypertensive effects,' explains Pruteanu. There are many ways to boost your fiber intake with quinoa. The versatile gluten-free grain can be used in everything from grain bowls—try this Vegan Superfood Grain Bowl recipe—to healthy dessert recipes like our Almond Butter-Quinoa Blondies. Don't leave Costco without snagging the Kirkland Signature Three Berry Blend from the freezer aisle. 'Berries are packed with potassium and fiber, which play a key role in lowering blood pressure,' says Vanessa Imus, M.S., RDN. Forget about molding berries in the crisper drawer of your fridge. Frozen berries are incredibly versatile and have a longer shelf life than their fresh counterparts. 'You can toss them into Greek yogurt, blend them into a smoothie or even stir them into oatmeal for a heart-healthy, antioxidant-rich boost,' recommends Imus. Check out these 14 Recipes That Start with a Bag of Frozen Berries for inspiration. Registered dietitian Patricia Kolesa, M.S., RDN, recommends stocking up on Whole Grain Rolled Oats at Costco. 'Each serving contains 4 grams of fiber or 14% of the recommended daily value. Plus, they're sodium-free, making them an excellent choice for someone looking to reduce the overall amount of sodium in their diet.' Studies show that people who consumed whole-grain oats effectively reduced systolic blood pressure compared to people who consume refined grains. This was especially true in individuals with hypertension. Check out our Blueberry-Lemon Energy Balls, these High-Fiber Apple-Cranberry Baked Oats, and this Easy Savory Oatmeal recipe. Costco is a great place to buy heart-healthy salmon. Whether it's canned salmon or fresh, and both offer blood pressure-lowering benefits. 'Go for the Kirkland Signature Wild Alaskan pink salmon,' says Lisa Andrews, RD, LD. 'While these cans come in 6-ounce portions, they can be split to make two servings or shared with a friend.' Research shows that consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish can help lower blood pressure by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function. 'Aim for at least two servings per week,' says Andrews. Check out our Salmon Salad-Stuffed Avocado recipe. Eating a healthy diet like the DASH diet is one way you can manage your blood pressure. Other lifestyle factors that help lower blood pressure include: Stay hydrated. 'Dehydration can cause the blood vessels to constrict, decreasing blood flow and raising blood pressure,' says Kolesa. The general rule of thumb is 64 ounces of water per day, but some people may need more depending on factors like activity level, health conditions, age and sex. Get moving. Aim for about 30 minutes daily or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity weekly. Try this #1 Exercise You Should Be Doing for Better Blood Pressure. Prioritize sleep. Get at least seven hours of sleep per night for healthy blood pressure and disease prevention. Costco has a variety of heart-healthy ingredients to help lower your blood pressure. Aside from adding these dietitian favorites to your Costco cart, try following the DASH diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly and prioritizing sleep to help keep your blood pressure down. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
