STAYING ACTIVE LOWERS ALZHEIMER'S RISK

According to the medical journal Neurology, staying active cuts the risk of Alzheimer's disease by 50% at any age. And this doesn't mean you have to spend hours in a gym exercising. Things as simple as housework, taking walks, etc count.

Personal note: My late husband had COPD and Alzheimer's. He was a very active person most of his life. When his COPD really slowed him down, his Alzheimer's because worse.

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SNACK CRACKERS

 Are you one of those people who love crackers and can't imagine giving them up but you are a diabetic or one who is trying to watch your weight, cut carbs, etc? Following are some crackers you can enjoy as a snack. That's right, a snack not a meal. Always remember quantity is key so follow the recommended quantity listed for each cracker.

• TRISCUIT - Nabisco Triscuit Hint of Salt 6 crackers = 120 calories, 20 g carbs, 3 g fiber, 3.5 g total fat (.5 g sat), 50 mg sodium
• GOOD THINS - Nabisco Good Thins The Wheat One Ancient Grains 12 crackers = 65 calories, 1.5 g fiber, 2.3 g total fat (.03 g sat), 85 g sodium
• WASA SOURDOUGH - Wasa Sourdough Whole Grain Crispbread 2 large crispbreads = 70 calories, 18 g carbs, 4 g fiber, 0 g fat, 90 mg sodium. These crispbreads are large enough to hold protein such a a low-fat cheese, some tuna, mashed avocado, etc
• And what about Animal Crackers? They aren't just for babies and children. You can enjoy some plain animal crackers without quilt. ORIGINAL ANIMAL CRACKERS 8 crackers = 60 calories, 12 g carbs, .05 g fat, 53 mg sodium

Crackers for snacking are not out of the question for most of us. Read nutritional labels and watch the quantity you eat.

Does this assortment of crackers call to you? Do your homework and know which to enjoy and which to pass up.

TRANS FATS AND INTESTINAL INFLAMMATION

Having intestinal problems? Try cutting the trans fats from your diet. By the way, on food labels trans fats may be listed as "hydrogenated" or "partially hydrogenated" oils or fats. Almost all commercially prepared pies, cakes, cookies, etc contain trans fats. Studies have shown trans fats can make intestinal inflammation jump for up to three hours after consuming them. Once again, I know I say it often, read nutritional labels and know exactly what you are eating.

CITRUS FRUITS HELP TO RESIST COLDS

Scientists say eating 1/2 cup of citrus fruit a day could cut ones risk of getting a cold, especially summer colds, by 85%. The reason? Citrus fruits contain bioflavonoids that strengthen sinus tissues keeping germs from penetrating. Most cold germs enter our bodies through our noses followed by the eyes.

ONE MORE REASON TO EAT AN APPLE

Need to get rid of belly fat? Try choosing apples for snacks. Studies have shown that pectin, a fiber in apples, helps blast away belly fat. Not only is belly fat unattractive, it can lead to a whole series of health problems. Keep apples handy and grab one the next time you need a snack, especially if you are fighting belly fat.

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TIP TO PREVENT CARSICKNESS

I have never suffered from carsickness so I cannot give advice that I know works. However, I did come across an article offering a simple solution. If you suffer this problem, perhaps you might want to try this. Try sucking on lemon candy. It is said to up saliva, which contains digestive enzymes that ease nausea. 

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CACTI AND COMPUTER EYES

Disclaimer: This isn't exactly kitchen medicine, but I thought it interesting enough to share here.

Do you spend hours working at a computer? If you do and you ever get 'brain fog' or dry eyes from looking at a computer screen for long periods of time, some Swiss researchers have a solution for you. These researchers state that keeping a potted cactus plant near your computer will boost concentration and help ward away dry and tired eyes. Would you believe cacti have unique compounds that counteract electromagnetic radiation from computer screens. This is believed to be a survival mechanism for cacti that has developed to cope with exposure to harsh solar radiation.

CHILI POWDER HELPFUL FOR WEIGHT LOSS

You may wonder if you read that title correctly! Science has shown that capsaicin, the compound that gives chili powder its kick, is known to prod the body to start burning calories. A few years ago, the University of Maryland scientists said that raises metabolism by 25% for 3 hours. That is the calorie burning equivalent of a 40-minute walk.

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PROTECT KNEE CARTILAGE WITH OLIVE OIL

By substituting 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for other cooking oils one might reduce knee pain by as much as 20%. Research has shown that olive oil contains a natural anti-inflammatory that stops immune cells from attacking knee cartilage.

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PROTEIN FOR THE AFTERNOON SLUMPS

I have mentioned this on this blog before but so many complain of afternoon slumps I thought another post might be in order. Whatever you do when you feel that afternoon slump coming on, don't grab a candy bar or other sweet treat. You need something protein rich to combat the slumps. British researchers suggest a snack that includes hummus or eating a hard boiled egg for a boost in pep. The reason? Amino acids in protein stimulate certain brain cells that make you feel more alert, according to the study's lead author Denis Burdakov, Ph.D. Protein rich foods are also rich in tyrosine, an amino acid needed to help the body produce noradrenaline another brain chemical that perks you up.

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