Taste Beyond Flavor: The Five Senses of Eating.

How The Five Senses Affect Food Choices

National Hydration Day - Hydrate Right

Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. Heat-related illnesses may occur when the body’s temperature rises too quickly to cool itself properly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration, excessive urination or sweating.

Heat-related illnesses can range from cramps to heat exhaustion to heatstroke. Heatstroke can result in death and requires immediate medical attention.

At Risk

Factors or conditions making some individuals more susceptible to heat-related illnesses include older adults, young children, physically disabled, excessive body weight, fever, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, prescription medication, alcohol use, and sunburn.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. Our body needs water to keep cool. Persons who are on fluid restrictive diets or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids. Limit caffeinated beverages and do not drink alcoholic beverages. 

Staying hydrated is important, especially when the temperature rises or during increased physical activity. Try these easy ways to increase your fluid intake:

1. Carry a reusable water bottle. Keep it full.
2. Add flavor to your water, such as slices of lemon, lime, cucumber or strawberries. Herbal ice teas can be a great way to increase fluids.
3. Eat Fruit or Popsicle. You can get fluids from the foods you eat. Watermelon and cantaloupe have high water content. A 100% fruit juice pop provides fluids and is refreshing on a hot day.
4. Plan ahead. If you are going to be outside at a picnic or ball game, make sure to pack plenty of fluids.

Resources.
1. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Hydrate Right

Think Pink - The Power of Pink Foods

The Power of Pink

Think Pink

Pink Grapefruits contain lycopene. Lycopene is a naturally occurring chemical that gives fruits and vegetables a red color. It is one of a number of pigments called carotenoids. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that may help protect cells from damage. Current research explores lycopene's role in preventing heart disease and cancer of the prostate, breast, lung, bladder, ovaries, colon, uterine, and pancreas.

Pink Salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, it is rich in calcium, protein, magnesium, and potassium and contains iron, niacin, selenium, and vitamins A, B-12, C, and E. Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation and help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain and appear to be important for cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function.

Researchers believe the red pigment (called betacyanin) in beets may protect against the development of cancerous cells and might reduce the inflammation associated with heart disease.

Raspberries contain high levels of ellagic acid, a polyphenol and antioxidant being studied as a food in the fight against cancer. Raspberries are also rich in anthocyanins, a flavonoid compound that gives them their red color. Anthocyanins may help protect the circulatory, cardiovascular and neurological systems. Raspberries are a rich source of vitamin C, manganese and dietary fiber; and is a low-glycemic index food.

Red Onions are a natural sources of quercetin. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin is being studied for treating conditions of high cholesterol, heart disease, circulation problems, diabetes, cataracts, peptic ulcers, inflammation, asthma, gout, chronic fatigue syndrome, preventing cancer, and for treating chronic infections of the prostate. Quercetin research is evaluating the effectiveness of increased endurance and improved athletic performance. Red onions also provide allicin, an organic sulfur compound responsible for the taste and smell of onions. Allicin may protect against inflammation, allergies, and bacteria; and reduce the risk factors of certain types of cancers.

Guavas are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, folic acid, potassium, and manganese. Guava contains about 4 times as much vitamin C as an orange. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from free radical damage. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to rate the effectiveness of guava in the treatment of colic, diarrhea, diabetes, cough, cataracts, high cholesterol, heart disease, cancer, and other conditions. More research is needed to evaluate the usefulness of guava for these conditions.

Yogurt, Raspberry, Low-Fat or Fat-Free Yogurt has been associated with a wide range of health benefits due to its bacterial cultures and the many nutrients it contains. Yogurt is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and potassium. Some research shows that yogurt with probiotic cultures may help improve the immune system; reduce yeast infections in women; help with digestion; and reduce colon and other cancer risks. Calcium has beneficial effects on bone mass and may help prevent osteoporosis. Many people who are lactose intolerant can enjoy yogurt. One serving of yogurt is one eight-ounce cup or serving.

June is National Dairy Month

Every Age Needs the Nutrients Found in Dairy

A Tribute to the Dairy Industry:

From the Cow and the Farmer to Your Kitchen Table.

Nutrition and Health

Resource: National Dairy Council

Milk, cheese, and yogurt play a critical role in the diets of adults and children by providing essential nutrients. Drinking one cup of milk can help you meet the Dietary Guidelines for Americans’ recommended three servings of daily low-fat or fat-free milk or milk products.

One cup (8-ounce) serving of milk provides the following nutrients: (Information based on one cup of fat-free white milk)

Calcium provides 30% of the Daily Value. It helps build and maintain bones and teeth, and it plays a role in nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.

Vitamin D provides about 25% of the Daily Value. Vitamin D helps promote the absorption of calcium and enhances bone mineralization.

Protein provides about 16% of the Daily Value and essential amino acids. Protein builds and repairs muscle tissue and is a source of energy during intense physical activities.

Vitamin B12 provides about 22% of the Daily Value. Vitamin B12 helps build red blood cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to the muscles.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), provides about 26% of the Daily Value. Riboflavin helps convert food into energy. It is also involved in exercising muscles.

Phosphorus provides about 25% of the Daily Value. Phosphorus helps strengthen bones.

Easy to Prepare Snacks

National Dairy Council

The National Dairy Council provides user-friendly nutrition education materials. It advocates healthy living and is committed to our communities and health care needs. 

National Dairy Council® (NDC) is the nutrition research, education and communications arm of Dairy Management Inc™. On behalf of U.S. dairy farmers, NDC provides science-based nutrition information to, and in collaboration with, a variety of stakeholders committed to fostering a healthier society, including health professionals, educators, school nutrition directors, academia, industry, consumers, and media.

Established in 1915, NDC is comprised of a staff of nutrition science researchers, registered dietitians and communications experts dedicated to educating the public on the health benefits of consuming milk and milk products throughout a person’s lifespan. In addition, NDC funds independent research to aid in the ongoing discovery of information about dairy foods’ important role in a healthy lifestyle. This research provides insights to the industry for new dairy product innovations.

In partnership with its network of state and regional dairy councils, NDC disseminates nutrition programs, materials and research to support government recommendations for improved nutrition for Americans, including consumption of at least three servings of low-fat or fat-free milk and milk products a day.

3-Every-Day™, a Dairy Promotion. Consuming 3-Every-Day™ of Dairy – three daily servings of milk, cheese, or yogurt is an easy way for families to get a powerful punch of nutrients to help build stronger bones and healthy bodies and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. In addition, a growing body of research suggests that enjoying three servings of dairy foods a day as part of a nutrient-rich, balanced diet may help maintain a healthy weight.

American Dairy Association of Indiana's
 Every Single Day TV Spot.

Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school nutrition and physical activity program launched by National Dairy Council (NDC) and National Football League, in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The program encourages youth to consume nutrient-rich foods (low-fat and fat-free dairy, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) and achieve 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Visit the Fuel Up to Play 60 website to learn more.

Lactose Intolerance.
National Dairy Council, Lactose Intolerance 

 Celebrating America's Dairy Industry

Messages from the Dairy Councils and Associations

American Dairy Farmers, 1990’s

Maine Dairy and Nutrition Council

Sponsored by the American Dairy Farmers

Tribute to the Dairy Advertisers.

I’m not sure who gets the credit for the Cow Tap Dancing,
but the Message is Milk gets you swinging again.

Additional Resources

International Dairy Foods Association

If the World Loses Its Rainforests: How It Would Affect Our Food Supply

Rainforests cover less than 10% of the Earth's land surface, yet they play an essential role in feeding the world's population. These rich ecosystems help regulate climate, support pollinators, protect water supplies, maintain healthy soils, and provide foods that millions of people depend on every day. If the world's rainforests were lost, the consequences for global food security would be profound.

Rainforests Help Regulate Rainfall

Rainforests act as giant water pumps. Trees absorb water from the soil and release it into the atmosphere through transpiration. This process helps create rainfall patterns that support agriculture both locally and across continents.

The Amazon rainforest, for example, influences rainfall throughout South America. Scientists warn that continued deforestation could reduce precipitation, increase drought frequency, and threaten crop production in major agricultural regions.

Less rainfall can lead to lower yields of crops such as corn, soybeans, rice, and wheat. Farmers may face increased irrigation costs and more frequent crop failures.

Pollinators Depend on Forest Ecosystems

Many pollinators, including bees, butterflies, bats, and birds, rely on rainforest habitats. These species help pollinate crops that produce fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 75% of the world's food crops depend to some extent on pollination. The loss of rainforest habitat can contribute to pollinator declines, reducing crop productivity and food diversity.

Foods that rely on pollinators include:

• Coffee
• Cocoa
• Avocados
• Mangoes
• Bananas
• Nuts
• Many vegetables

A decline in pollinators could lead to lower harvests and higher food prices.

Rainforests Are Home to Important Food Crops

Many foods enjoyed around the world originated in tropical forests. Rainforests provide genetic diversity that helps scientists develop crop varieties resistant to pests, diseases, and climate stresses.

Foods with rainforest origins include:

• Cacao (chocolate)
• Coffee
• Bananas
• Pineapples
• Vanilla
• Brazil nuts
• Mangoes
• Papayas

The loss of rainforest biodiversity could limit future opportunities to improve crops and adapt agriculture to changing environmental conditions.

Soil Health Would Decline

Forest ecosystems protect soil from erosion and nutrient loss. Tree roots stabilize the ground while leaf litter returns nutrients to the soil.

When forests are removed, heavy rains can wash away fertile topsoil. Degraded soils become less productive, making it harder to grow crops successfully.

As agricultural land becomes less fertile, farmers may need to use more fertilizers and other inputs, increasing production costs and environmental impacts.

Climate Change Would Intensify

Rainforests store enormous amounts of carbon. When forests are cut down or burned, that carbon is released into the atmosphere as greenhouse gases.

Accelerated climate change can result in:

• More extreme heat
• Increased droughts
• Flooding
• Crop failures
• Reduced livestock productivity
• Greater food insecurity

Climate-related disruptions already affect food production globally. Further rainforest loss would worsen these challenges.

Indigenous Communities and Local Food Systems Would Suffer

Millions of Indigenous people and local communities depend on rainforests for food, medicine, and livelihoods. Forest foods include fruits, nuts, fish, wild game, and edible plants.

Deforestation threatens traditional food systems that have sustained communities for generations. Loss of these resources can increase hunger and reduce dietary diversity.

What Can Be Done?

Protecting rainforests supports food security for current and future generations. Actions include:

• Reducing deforestation
• Supporting sustainable agriculture
• Choosing products certified as sustainably produced
• Reducing food waste
• Supporting conservation efforts
• Promoting responsible land management

The Bottom Line

Rainforests are far more than collections of trees. They help regulate rainfall, support pollinators, maintain biodiversity, protect soil health, and reduce climate risks. Losing the world's rainforests would affect food production at every level, from local farms to global food markets.

Protecting rainforests is not only an environmental issue. It is a food security issue that affects the health and well-being of people worldwide.

References

1. Food and Agriculture Organization. The Importance of Pollinators to Food Production.
2. United Nations Environment Programme. Rainforests and Climate Regulation.
3. World Wildlife Fund. Why Forests Matter for Food Security.
4. Amazon Conservation Association. The Role of the Amazon in Regional Rainfall.

Happy Father’s Day. “Health is the greatest gift, happiness the greatest wealth

Happy Father's Day

Men's Health Month

CHICAGO – Gentlemen, do you think your nutritional needs remain the same throughout your entire adult life? Every decade has its own unique health concerns, ranging from weight gain to heart disease, which alter the types and amounts of food you need to consume during each life stage. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics encourages men to take time during Men’s Health Month to develop a healthful eating plan that is most appropriate and beneficial for their age.

“Each life stage has its own nutritional requirements to keep your body running in peak form,” says registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy Spokesperson Jim White. “Eating right at every age will help you sail through the decades feeling great.”

The Academy and its expert registered dietitian nutritionists offer tips to help men understand which foods will help boost their health at every decade of life.

20s: High Energy
“A higher metabolism and an active lifestyle can help younger men maintain a better weight, even if their diet isn’t stellar,” White says. “Eating foods like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit instead of snacks like chips, soda, and candy can satisfy your hunger and give a nutrient boost at the same time.”

Active guys need to be sure they're getting enough protein. Choose a variety of foods like seafood, lean meat and poultry, eggs, beans and peas, soy products, and unsalted nuts and seeds. “Heart-healthy fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, too,” White says.

30s: Weight Doesn't Wait
“While your appetite may stay the same in your 30s as in your 20s, your lifestyle has likely slowed a little due to marriage, kids, and jobs. So now is the time to change to a more regular eating pattern,” White says.

Eating smaller, more regular, and more frequent meals throughout the day will help you keep from getting too hungry and then overeating at a meal later in the day. “Plan healthy meals and snacks for your day, whether you’re at work or at home,” White says.

40s: Feed the Heart and Bones
As men age, the risk of heart disease becomes greater, and your 40s are the time to put more focus on heart health. “Fiber, especially soluble fiber found in peas, beans, oats, apples, and citrus fruit, can help keep your heart healthy because it works like a sponge to soak up cholesterol,” says registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy Spokesperson Ximena Jimenez.

Now is also a good time to reinforce strong teeth and bones. “Calcium from low-fat or fat-free dairy, dark green leafy vegetables or tofu, and vitamin D from fortified foods like milk and cereal are two of the best nutrients for your bones and teeth,” Jimenez says.

50s: Busting Disease
As certain diseases like cancer, especially prostate cancer, become more likely in the 50s and beyond, including plenty of antioxidants in your diet is key, like those found in berries and colorful vegetables.
While lycopene, vitamin E, and selenium are marketed to men as tools to reduce the chance of developing prostate cancer, there is no definitive science to back up these claims. “Whether there is a direct correlation between prostate cancer and these minerals or not, an overall healthy diet should contain both selenium and lycopene,” White says.

60s and Beyond: Maintain the Muscle

In your 60s and beyond, men start losing muscle mass, so protein is important. Replace protein foods that are higher in solid fats with choices that are lower in solid fats and calories or are sources of oils, such as salmon and tuna. “Also look at beans and peas. Because of their high nutrient content, they are considered both a vegetable and protein food,” White says.

For more information on men’s health, visit Healthy Eating for Men.

All registered dietitians are nutritionists – but not all nutritionists are registered dietitians. The Academy’s Board of Directors and Commission on Dietetic Registration have determined that those who hold the credential registered dietitian (RD) may optionally use “registered dietitian nutritionist” (RDN) instead. The two credentials have identical meanings.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving the nation’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education, and advocacy. Visit the Academy at www.eatright.org

Resources

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Men's Health

Men's Health Network (MHN) 

International Men's Health Week

Beat the Heat - First Day of Summer

Beat the Heat!

Heat Safety Awareness 
Resources.
1. National Weather Service
2. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Hydrate Right

Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. Heat-related illnesses can occur when the body’s temperature rises too quickly for it to cool itself properly, or when excessive fluid or salt loss occurs due to dehydration, excessive urination, or excessive sweating.

Heat-related illnesses can range from cramps to heat exhaustion to heatstroke. Heatstroke can result in death and requires immediate medical attention.

At-Risk

Factors or conditions making some individuals more susceptible to heat-related illnesses include older adults, young children, the physically disabled, excessive body weight, fever, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, prescription medication, alcohol use, and sunburn.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water, as well as non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. Our body needs water to keep cool. Individuals on fluid-restrictive diets or those with fluid retention issues should consult a physician before increasing their fluid intake. Limit caffeinated beverages and avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. 

Staying hydrated is important, especially when the temperature rises or during increased physical activity. Try these easy ways to increase your fluid intake:

1. Carry a reusable water bottle. Keep it full.
2. Add flavor to your water with slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, or strawberries. Herbal iced teas can be a great way to increase your fluid intake.
3. Eat fruit or popsicles. You can get fluids from the foods you eat. Watermelon and cantaloupe have high water content. A 100% fruit juice pop provides fluids and is refreshing on a hot day.
4. Plan ahead. If you plan to be outside at a picnic or ball game, be sure to pack plenty of fluids.

Never Leave Children, Disabled Individuals

Or Pets in Parked Vehicles

Each year, children and pets left in parked cars die from hyperthermia. Hyperthermia is an acute condition that occurs when the body absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. Studies have shown temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level for children, pets, and even adults. Leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate. The effects can be more severe in children because their bodies warm up at a faster rate than those of adults.

 

PBSO demonstrates dangers of heat inside a car

June 20, National Ice Cream Soda Day

The ice cream soda has been around since 1874, when it was invented by Robert McCay in Philadelphia, PA. The story goes that Mr. Green ran out of ice for the flavored soda he was selling and used vanilla ice cream from a nearby vendor, thereby inventing the ice cream soda.

Today, the ice cream soda can be found in countries across the globe. The ice cream soda is known as a float, Coke float, cooler, snowball, or spider, depending on where you are in the world.

An ice cream soda is a beverage containing ice cream, either a soft drink or a flavored syrup, and carbonated water.

Varieties
The ice cream soda comes in numerous soda and ice cream flavors. Some of the most popular are listed below:

Chocolate ice cream soda: Chocolate syrup, chocolate ice cream, unflavored carbonated water and top with whipped cream.
Black and White: Chocolate syrup, vanilla ice cream, unflavored carbonated water and top with whipped cream.
Root beer float ("black cow" or "brown cow"): Vanilla ice cream and root beer
Coke float: Coca-Cola and vanilla ice-cream.
Boston Cooler: Vernors ginger ale and Stroh's vanilla ice cream.
Snow White: 7 Up or Sprite and vanilla ice cream.
Purple cow: Vanilla ice cream, purple grape soda.
Orange Float (Orange Whip): Vanilla ice cream and orange soda.

A root beer float is traditionally made with vanilla ice cream and root beer. 

We chose a diet root beer soda to avoid excess sugar and limit calories. The diet root beer has "zero" calories.

Beverage. Make sure you combine the soda and ice cream carefully. The reaction causes bubbles to form and a rapid rise in foam, which is part of the fun and can get messy.  Use 1/4 cup light vanilla ice cream. Add a straw and a spoon, then enjoy.

Resource.
 Wikipedia: Ice Cream Soda

Nutrient Analysis Services
Ensure accurate nutritional analysis for your recipes utilizing an extensive research database and over 25 years of experience. A valuable service for the Recipe Blogger, Media, Cookbook Publishers, Writers, Chefs, and Recipe Websites. Your readers will benefit from the Nutrition information and a Registered Dietitian. Contact: Dietitians-Online.com; Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, LN, FAND at recipenews@gmail.com

International Picnic Day. Your Guide to the Perfect Picnic

June 18 is International Picnic Day, an informal food holiday. On this day, food is brought from home or a market and eaten outdoors. 

The origin of picnic day dates back to medieval times. After a successful hunt, people would gather outside for a picnic. International Picnic Day was possibly developed and promoted to bring families together for outside activities, family reunions, exercise, relaxation, and an appreciation of nature.

Traditional foods served on International Picnic Day include salads, sandwiches, beverages, and desserts. If a grill is available, include cooked meats, fish, poultry, and vegetables. 

Picnic Food Safety

Before setting out your picnic feast, ensure your hands and surfaces are clean.

Place cold food in a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs. Cold food should be stored at 40°F or below to prevent bacterial growth. Meat, poultry, and seafood should be packed while frozen to stay colder longer.

Pack beverages in one cooler and perishable foods in another. This will prevent the perishable foods from being exposed to warm outdoor temperatures.

Limit the times the cooler is opened to keep the contents cold longer.

Be sure to keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood securely wrapped. This keeps their juices from contaminating prepared and cooked foods or foods that will be eaten raw, such as fruits and vegetables.

Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under tap water before packing them in the cooler.

Picnic Recipes.
1. Top Picnic Recipes. Good Foods.
2. Perfectly Portable Picnic Recipes, Food Network.
3. Best Picnic Recipes That Are Easy to Make and Take with You, Country Living.
4. Picnic Recipes, Allrecipes

For more food safety tips, visit 

http://www.fightbac.org

June 18, International Sushi Day Sushi Safety

Sushi is rich in omega-3s and healthy fatty acids. There are several different types of sushi: 

Nigiri Sushi. Mounds of sticky rice are wrapped or layered with seafood and other ingredients.

Maki Sushi. Sticky rice and other ingredients are rolled into a cylinder using thin sheets of dried seaweed.

Sashimi. Sliced raw fish, served with a variety of condiments.

Condiments for Sushi
Soy sauce. Many people blend some of the wasabi with soy sauce to make a tasty dipping sauce for their sushi.

Wasabi. Japanese horseradish and it's HOT; comes as a powder that you make into a thick, bright green paste by adding liquid.

Pickled Ginger. Used to help cleanse the palate and offer relief from the hot wasabi.

Sushi Safety

How safe is the raw fish in sushi? 

Commercial freezing for at least 72 hours at 4 degrees Fahrenheit kills the parasitic worms and their larvae. Note home freezers usually cannot reach temperatures this low. 

Precautions:

• Order sushi from reputable restaurants where the restaurant and fish provider follow food safety standards.
• Eating fish cooked completely is always the safest.
• The FDA recommends pregnant or individuals with compromised immune systems (young children, the elderly, and persons with chronic illness) should not risk eating raw fish.
• Never make your own sushi with raw fish unless you can freeze the fish for more than 72 hours at 4 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead, use cooked fish or vegetables.
• Proper handling and preparation are crucial to ensure the safety of sushi made with raw fish.
• After purchasing raw seafood, fish, and sushi rice; refrigerate immediately below 41ºF until ready to serve.
• Preparing rice with vinegar lowers the pH and helps slow the bacterial growth rate.
• Once sushi rolls and sashimi are prepared, refrigerate immediately until serving.
• Cross-contamination is a concern since sushi is made with raw and cooked fish. To prevent cross-contamination, raw and cooked fish must be physically separated during preparation. Use different utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces.