Fighting Food Allergies in Children

Every three minutes some one goes to the emergency room because of an allergy-related event.

When you have an allergic reaction to something you eat, your body recognizes a protein in the food and reacts against it. There are many different responses that can happen-rashes, hives, diarrhea-but, the most dangerous occurrence is when there is potential for anaphylaxis, which can cause death.

In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. David Granet talks with UC San Diego’s Dr. Stephanie Leonard who is the director of the Food Allergy Center at Rady Children’s Hospital here in San Diego.

More than 3 million people under the age of 18 have been diagnosed with food allergies, but Dr. Leonard says that number is on the rise. In a ten year period, she says, there has been an 18% increase in the diagnosis of food allergies in children.

Watch “Children’s Food Allergies- Health Matters” to hear the various theories behind why that number is increasing.

For more on food allergies, check out Food Allergies: Past, Present and Future.

Living for Longevity: The Nutrition Connection

Eating right takes on a whole new meaning when you watch “Living for Longevity: The Nutrition Connection” this month on UCSD-TV.

In her helpful talk from UC San Diego’s Stein Institute for Research on Aging, Vicky Newman, MS, RD, explains how the right balance of foods, part of an anti-inflammatory eating plan, can maximize your health and energy level.  Learn practical tips for controlling your weight, maintaining bone strength and reducing the risk of common chronic diseases associated with aging. You’ll also find out about foods that support the body’s immune and detoxification systems, how to maintain a healthy (and happy) gut, and how to balance your fats to support your health and well-being.

Watch “Living for Longevity: The Nutrition Connection” Thursday, April 25 at 8:3pm, or online now (additional broadcast times at the link). For even more valuable healthy aging tips and research updates, check out the Stein Institute’s video archive.

Helpings from the Happy Diabetic – Perfect Plates

Chef Robert Lewis, also known as the “Happy Diabetic,” serves up fun recipes and helpful tips – with an extra helping of happiness – to keep you fueled! How can you stay a happy diabetic around the holidays? It can seem like a daunting task with so many food-centric celebrations. Chef Robert shares his plan […]

Chef Robert Lewis, also known as the “Happy Diabetic,” serves up fun recipes and helpful tips – with an extra helping of happiness – to keep you fueled!

How can you stay a happy diabetic around the holidays? It can seem like a daunting task with so many food-centric celebrations. Chef Robert shares his plan for staying in the holiday spirit while sticking to your nutrition plan:

At parties, eat in phases. First fill your plate with fruits, veggies, and lean meats. Then go for the crackers and starches. Finally, take your pick of one dessert (not one of each!). Don’t make all your holiday gatherings about food. Remember, don’t eat like it’s your LAST MEAL!

Get more helpful tips from Chef Robert in the newest episode of Taking Control of Your Diabetes online now.

Learn more about Chef Robert Lewis the Happy Diabetic here.

Fit to Eat Tip – Grocery Store Guidelines

TCOYD’s resident nutrition expert Janice Baker has a helpful tip for eating smart and taking control of your diabetes – and your diet! Does it seem like going to the grocery store is almost like a trip to Disneyland? With all of the attractive boxes, product displays, variations on even the simplest foods, it’s harder […]

TCOYD’s resident nutrition expert Janice Baker has a helpful tip for eating smart and taking control of your diabetes – and your diet!

Does it seem like going to the grocery store is almost like a trip to Disneyland? With all of the attractive boxes, product displays, variations on even the simplest foods, it’s harder and harder to know what the right choices are. The best tip: think simple! Food choices with the least amount of added ingredients, flavorings, and processing are usually the best choices. Lean meat chicken and fish, eggs, low fat dairy products, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, whole grains such as oatmeal, 100% whole wheat bread, pasta and brown rice are foods that you just can’t go wrong with. Choose a good quality olive oil to use for cooking and tossing lightly on colorful salads. Herbs, spices and no sodium seasonings will help you jazz up flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Bonus: you will save lots of money!

Fit To Eat Tip – The Liquid Lowdown

TCOYD’s resident nutrition expert Janice Baker has a helpful tip for eating smart and taking control of your diabetes – and your diet! Don’t drink your calories. Liquid calories from soda, juices and fancy coffee drinks add up quickly and are a significant source of weight gain. Drink water, unsweetened coffee or tea (sweeten yourself […]

TCOYD’s resident nutrition expert Janice Baker has a helpful tip for eating smart and taking control of your diabetes – and your diet!

Don’t drink your calories. Liquid calories from soda, juices and fancy coffee drinks add up quickly and are a significant source of weight gain. Drink water, unsweetened coffee or tea (sweeten yourself if needed), and no or low calorie beverages. Eat whole fruit instead of juice- your body likes the fiber and portion control is much easier!