Review of 3 Nutrition ‘Hot Topics’
With continued research, nutrition is constantly changing – which can make it very confusing!
Recently, a group of physicians and researchers examined the science behind a few nutrition ‘hot topics’, and published their findings in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
The following is the most up-to-date, evidence-based recommendations on a few nutrition ‘hot topics’.
Which fats are healthiest?
Liquid vegetable oils – extra virgin olive oil, especially – are best for heart health. Hard fats such as butter, margarine and coconut oil contain higher amounts of saturated fats, which can raise blood cholesterol levels.
Although there has been a lot of hype over the health benefits of coconut oil, after reviewing the science, the group concluded that there is not enough evidence to support any cardiovascular benefits of coconut oil – and it may actually pose a risk!
Are eggs healthy?
Eggs are a great source of protein and other nutrients. But the egg yolk is relatively high in dietary cholesterol. For most people, this is not a major issue because they don’t respond significantly to dietary cholesterol, and it has minimal effect on blood cholesterol levels.
However, for some, a high intake of dietary cholesterol does affect blood cholesterol levels. These people absorb more cholesterol from food – the amount a person absorbs is influenced by overall diet and genetic factors.
So this one depends, in part, on the person. But it’s only the egg yolk that is of concern; therefore, anyone with concerns of dietary cholesterol and heart health should limit egg yolks to 4-5 per week.
Blood thinners and leafy greens.
Those who take blood thinners are often advised to avoid eating leafy greens such as romaine lettuce, spinach and kale. This is because these green are high in vitamin K, which plays a part in blood clotting. However, leafy greens are packed full of other nutrients and antioxidants.
The good news is, there’s no need to miss out on the health benefits of leafy greens. The dose of your blood thinner medication can be adjusted based on your intake – the key is to maintain a consistent intake of leafy greens from day-to-day.
http://www.onlinejacc.org/content/69/9/1172
