http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_home.jsp?ccid=11 Reader's Digest Asia - Food Thu, 03 Aug 2006 03:22:00 -0000 http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_71 Benefits Good source of vitamin C Good source of bioflavonoids High in soluble fibre http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_72 Benefits Fresh and dried apricots are good sources of beta carotene Dried apricots are a useful source of iron, a good source of fibre and an excellent source of potassium http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_73 BENEFITS A rich source of vitamin E Good source of potassium High in monounsaturated fats http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_74 Benefit High in potassium Drawback Cause intestinal wind if unripe Healthy, filling and conveniently wrapped, bananas are one of nature's ideal snacks. Bananas are grown in most of the world's tropical areas. They are harvested when still green, and begin to ripen during transportation. Most are still not fully ripe when sold and they should be stored at room temperature until they are ripe. They will then keep in a refrigerator for four or five days if they are wrapped in newspaper. Although the skin may turn dark brown, the flesh should stay fresh, firm and cream-coloured. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_75 Benefits Good source of vitamin C Useful source of B vitamins Low in calories http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_76 Benefits Contains a wide range of nutrients, including valuable minerals, particularly iron and zinc http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_77 Benefits Good source of folate Rich in potassium Contains some vitamin C Leafy tops are rich in beta carotene, calcium and iron http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_78 BLUEBERRIES Benefits Good source of anthocyanosides Excellent source of antioxidants http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_79 BENEFITS Good source of complex carbohydrates Whole grain breads have a high fibre content http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_80 BENEFITS Supply protein High in soluble fibre DRAWBACKS May cause flatulence http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_81 BENEFITS Excellent source of vitamin C Useful source of beta carotene Contains folate, iron and potassium http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_82 BENEFITS Generally good sources of vitamin A and vitamin D Polyunsaturated margarine is an important source of vitamin E http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_83 BENEFITS May help to relieve gastric ulcers Excellent source of vitamin C Help to protect against cancer http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_84 BENEFITS Excellent source of beta carotene, the plant form of vitamin A DRAWBACK http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_85 BENEFITS May help to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure Helps to relieve joint pain http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_86 BENEFITS Help to lower cholesterol levels Help to relieve constipation Good source of fibre and B vitamins http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_87 BENEFITS Good source of protein and a rich source of calcium Good source of vitamin B12 http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_88 BENEFITS Good source of potassium May help to prevent gout The raw edible varieties of cherries are a good source of potassium, which helps to stabilise the heartbeat and keep the skin healthy. They also contain useful amounts of vitamin C. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_89 BENEFITS May help to relieve congestion Excellent source of vitamin C DRAWBACKS http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_90 BENEFITS Can boost mood in some people Contains antioxidants Tastes great! http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_91 BENEFITS Excellent source of vitamin C Contain thiamin and folate Contain pectin, which may lower blood cholesterol levels http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_92 BENEFITS Useful source of fibre DRAWBACKS High in saturated fat High in calories http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_93 BENEFITS Mild laxative and diuretic Stimulates alertness Can keep you awake when needed http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_94 BENEFITS All are low in calories Courgttes are a good source of beta carotene http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_95 BENEFITS Excellent source of antioxidants Juice helps to fight bladder, kidney and urinary tract infections http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_96 BENEFITS Good source of iron and calcium Rich in potassium (when dried) Gentle laxative http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_97 BENEFITS Excellent source of vitamin B12 Convenient source of protein Rich in vitamins and minerals http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_98 BENEFITS Excellent source of protein, iron and other minerals Some are high in vitamin A http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_99 BENEFITS Contains phytochemicals with many health benefits Rich source of potassium which helps to regulate blood pressure http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_100 BENEFITS Contains phytochemicals with many health benefits Rich source of potassium which helps to regulate blood pressure http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_101 BENEFITS Daily doses may help to lower blood pressure and blood cholesterol Acts as a nasal decongestant http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_102 BENEFITS Good source of potassium Black grapes are a source of antioxidants DRAWBACKS http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_103 The medicinal value of herbs, known to earlier civilisations through a combination of keen observation, trial and error, is being rediscovered and confirmed by modern scientific tests. But while research continues to investigate the uses of new plants, many doctors and scientists still do not acknowledge the healing power of herbs, preferring instead to rely on 'tried and tested' pharmaceutical drugs. Yet our knowledge of herbs can be traced back to the Ancient Egyptians, whose priests routinely practised herbal medicine. A papyrus, dating from 1500 BC, lists hundreds of medicinal herbs - including many that are still in use today. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_104 The following list gives the culinary uses of popular herbs. Generally, herbs have little nutritional value because of the small amounts consumed. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_105 Benefits Source of quick energy Adds sweetness and unique flavour Drawbacks Not suitable for babies under 1 year old http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_106 BENEFITS Most varieties contain vitamin A, riboflavin and vitamin B12 Contains calcium http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_107 BENEFITS Excellent source of vitamin C Good source of potassium Supplies soluble fibre which can help to lower blood cholesterol levels http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_108 BENEFITS High in protein Rich source of most B vitamins Good source of zinc and iron http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_109 BENEFITS Useful source of potassium and folate DRAWBACKS May cause flatulence http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_110 BENEFITS Low in calories Useful source of folate Useful source of beta carotene http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_111 Benefits Source of good quality protein Liver and kidneys are rich or excellent sources of iron and niacin and useful sources of zinc http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_112 BENEFITS Rich source of beta carotene, which the body can convert to vitamin A http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_113 BENEFITS Provides high-quality protein Supplies essential B vitamins as well as phosphorus and zinc http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_114 BENEFITS Good source of potassium and some trace elements, especially copper http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_115 BENEFITS Excellent source of vitamin E Walnuts may help to reduce the risk of heart disease http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_116 BENEFITS Supply essential fatty acids Good source of vitamin E Increase the body's absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_117 BENEFITS Excellent source of protein, iron and other minerals High in vitamin A http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_118 BENEFITS May help to lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of coronary heart disease http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_119 BENEFITS Excellent source of slow-release carbohydrates for energy Useful source of protein http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_120 BENEFITS Most types of pickled fruits and vegetables retain their minerals DRAWBACKS http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_121 BENEFITS Excellent source of B vitamins and protein Useful source of zinc DRAWBACKS http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_122 BENEFITS Useful source of vitamin C Contain starch and fibre Good source of potassium http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_123 BENEFITS Good source of starch Gluten-free carbohydrate, suitable for people with coeliac disease http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_124 BENEFITS Maintain fluid balance, regulate blood pressure, transmit nerve impulses http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_125 BENEFITS Enhance the flavour, texture and appearance of many foods Hot, spicy sauces can help to clear blocked nasal passages http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_126 BENEFITS Good sources of energy and protein DRAWBACKS Fat typically accounts for more than 70 per cent of a sausage's calories http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_127 BENEFITS Most types of seaweed are an excellent source of iodine Provides a wide range of minerals including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_128 BENEFITS Excellent source of protein and minerals Good source of B vitamins Low in fat http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_129 With their distinctive colours and flavours, spices stimulate the appetite and enhance our enjoyment of food. Used in small amounts, spices are of little nutritional value. However, with their intense and distinctive flavours, spices can be a healthy alternative to salt in the diet. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_130 BENEFITS Excellent source of protein, iron and other minerals Some are high in vitamin A http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_131 BENEFITS Tasty source of quick energy DRAWBACKS High in calories and sometimes fat http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_132 BENEFITS Mild stimulant Supplies quercetin and other bioflavonoids - antioxidants that may lower the risk of heart disease and cancer http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_133 BENEFITS High in protein Low in saturated fats Good source of calcium and phytoestrogens, and a useful source of vitamin E http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_134 BENEFITS Naturopaths believe that cider vinegar may help people with arthritis http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_135 BENEFITS Excellent source of protein, iron and other minerals Some are high in vitamin A http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_136 BENEFITS In moderation, wine decreases the risk of heart disease, especially in middle-aged and elderly men http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_206 Benefit Enhance the taste of some foods Sugar alcohols used in some sweets actually help to prevent dental caries http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_207 Benefit Excellent source of most B vitamins and folate Contains potassium and magnesium http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_208 Benefits Excellent source of vitamins C and K Excellent source of beta carotene (see Vitamin A) http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_209 Benefits Rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants Sugar supplies fast-release energy http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_210 For thousands of years food has been smoked, cured and pickled as a means of preserving it. Modern technology has made most of the traditional preserving methods redundant, but they survive because people still enjoy the strong flavours they create. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_211 Benefits Rich source of Vitamin C Raspberry-leaf tea can be used to treat mild digestive problems. If drunk late in pregnancy, it may help to reduce the length of labour pains http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_212 Benefit Useful source of vitamin C Drawback Can trigger allergic reactions in rare instances http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_213 Benefits Rich source of Vitamin C Easily digestible Gentle laxative Fresh, ripe peaches are a tasty, low-energy food. One average 100g fruit contains around 30 calories and, if eaten unpeeled, provides more than three-quarters of the daily requirement of vitamin C. The soft fruit is easy to digest and has a gentle laxative effect. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_214 PARSNIP Benefit Useful source of starch and Fibre Useful source of vitamins C and E http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_215 Benefits Long shelf-life Retain many nutrients, including protein, and vitamins A, D and riboflavin http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_216 The generous amount of olive oil consumed by people who live in Mediterranean countries forms the core of the so-called Mediterranean diet, one high in vegetables, fruits, and grains, but also fat-about 40 per cent of total calories. People who follow this diet have much lower levels of heart disease than those following the typical Western diet. And the benefits come quickly. One study found that adults who consumed about 2 tablespoons of virgin olive oil daily for just one week had lower LDL (bad Cholesterol) and higher levels of Antioxidants in their blood. Numerous other studies conducted over the past 40 years attest to the oil's heart benefits, including studies finding that olive oil not only lowers LDL but also raises HDL. When olive oil is offered for bread-dipping in place of butter, people who dip consume 50 fewer calories than those who spread butter. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_217 BENEFITS High-fibre varieties are a good source of insoluble fibre, which aids bowel function, and soluble fibre which helps to lower blood cholesterol levels http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_218 BENEFIT Low in calories (if baked) DRAWBACK Large amounts of fat may be absorbed during preparation and cooking http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_219 Benefit Some varieties are good sources of beta carotene and Vitamin C Orange-fleshed cantaloupe melons are among the most nutritious of the many varieties of melon. A 100g portion supplies more than half the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C and is also a good source of beta carotene (which the body converts into Vitamin A). Both of these are antioxidants, as is lycopene, the red pigment in watermelon. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_220 Benefit Good source of Vitamin E Contain natural antioxidants Drawback High in Salt http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_221 Benefits High in natural sugar A good source of fibre, vitamin C, potassium, pectin and bioflavonoids http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_222 Benefits Rich source of thiamin (B vitamins, vitamin B1) Good source of Vitamin C http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_223 Benefits Excellent source of Vitamin C Useful source of beta carotene Good source of bioflavonoids http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_224 Benefits Contain Vitamin E Good source of Potassium There are more varieties of plum than any other species of stone fruit - about 2000 in all. Plums contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and may help to retard some of the effects of ageing, such as wrinkling. When plums are dried they are known as prunes. In this form, when most of their water content has been removed, they are a more concentrated source of nutrients, although only potassium and Iron are present in really useful amounts. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_225 Benefits Low in fat and calories Useful source of Vitamin C Members of the cruciferous family of vegetables - which include radishes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages and cauliflowers - contain sulphurous compounds which may help to protect against some forms of Cancer. Radishes are a useful source of vitamin C, required for the manufacture of collagen which is needed for healthy skin, bones, cartilage, teeth and gums and for healing wounds and burns. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_226 Benefit Good source of Potassium Drawbacks Oxalic acid content inhibits calcium and iron absorption http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_227 Benefits Excellent source of carotenoids (see Vitamin A) and a good source of Vitamin C, which may help to prevent cancer http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_228 Benefits Enhances the taste of some foods Supplies almost instant energy Drawbacks http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_229 Benefits Good source of carotenoids and Potassium Useful source of vitamins C and E http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_230 Around 60 per cent of an adult's body weight is water. It must be continually replaced since we lose roughly 0.3 litres of water a day simply through breathing. In a lifetime, each person is estimated to drink about 40,000 litres of water. http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_231 Benefit Useful source of calcium and phosphorus Contains vitamins B2 (riboflavin) and B12 http://www.readersdigest.com.ph/rd/rdhtml/en/communities/food_cat.jsp?mccid_ccid=11_232 Benefit Excellent source of protein Rich source of B vitamins Liver is excellent source of vitamin A http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=970 The heart-healthy reputation of olive oil is well known, but eating a variety of plant oils can give extra health – and flavour – benefits. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=971 Eggs are the ultimate fast food. They combine protein, vitamins A, D, E and B, and minerals in one perfect package. And now it seems that you really should go to work on an egg: a new study has found that a breakfast of scrambled eggs, toast and fruit spread kept overweight women full longer than a bagel, cream cheese and yoghurt breakfast with the same calories. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=974 Downing a few beers in the pub may give you more than a bad hangover. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine say Guinness stout has more heart-healthy flavonoids and triggers more anti-clotting activity than light-coloured beer. And beer hops contain xanthohumol, a flavonoid that may help ward off some cancers, say Oregon State University researchers. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=937 Bad news for lovers of luncheon meats, sausages or hot dogs. Scientists at the University of Hawaii studied 190,545 people and found that heavy consumption of processed meat raised the risk of pancreatic cancer by a whopping 67 per cent. Carcinogens seem somehow to be introduced in the processing, as distinct from the meat itself (although a diet rich in pork and red meat also raises the risk by 50 per cent). http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=523 Olive oilis already known to help keep ''bad'' cholesterol levels down, which is good for your heart. But now a study in Philadelphia has shown that a compound in extra-virgin olive oil also mimics the effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - such as aspirin and ibuprofen - but without the side effects or irritating the stomach. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=398 When you think about a healthy dessert, fresh fruit probably comes to mind. And yes, that's a good choice, if a little boring. But you can have a chocolatey, chewy, nutty indulgence and boost your heart health. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=399 So say researchers from Flinders University and the University of Toronto who have quashed the long-held belief that taste is what turns people off food. The strongest component to bring on the "yuck" reaction is the texture. After presenting people with unfamiliar foods that were labelled with fake names, the researchers asked them what they wouldn't eat and why. In the majority of cases the reasoning was that they didn't like the way the food "felt in their mouth." Apparently tomatoes, mushrooms and onions are the most regularly rejected foods. Psychologist Dr Yolanda Martins, one of the researchers, says it's important to be exposed to different textures from a young age. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=360 Fresh-picked and fragrant, edible flowers can make a tasty, aromatic and colourful addition to your plate. Here's how to turn a bouquet into a banquet. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=361 You may have dipped your corn chip too ambitiously into a too-hot salsa dip or taken an ill-advised dare to chomp on a whole fresh chilli, but the upshot is the same: how to make the heat stop. Immediately! We asked the self-proclaimed "chilli dude" John Boland of the Byron Bay Chilli Company in Australia for his tried-and-tested cures. "Just like everyone's tolerance level of chilli is different, what helps with the sting can be different," he says. One way to dull the burn is to hold a big spoonful of sugar in your mouth. Iced water is OK, so long as it stays cold and in your mouth. The moment you swallow, the heat will come back. Ice cream, yogurt and milk could also come in handy. But John's best advice? "Ultimately, food without chillies is like love without a kiss." http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=362 We've heard about healthy antioxidants, but usually we think of blueberries, red wine and, most recently, coffee. New research finds that mushrooms are the top source of ergothioneine, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of heart disease. Until now, wheat germ and chicken liver, foods we don't exactly eat in abundance, were thought to be the best sources. But Pennsylvania State University researchers found that a serving of white button mushrooms has 12 times more ergothioneine than wheat germ; shiitake have up to 40 times more! Skip the dip and chips at your next party and serve these simple hors d'oeuvres. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=363 Does it matter which salt you use? Chefs think so, which is why you'll find rock salt, sea salt and fleur de sel in shops. Prices of up to $14 a kilo prove that some consider the flavour special. (Save them for finishing dishes rather than for cooking: once melted they lose their subtle flavour.) But are they healthier? "Sea salt is no better for you than table salt," says Catherine Collins of the British Dietetic Association. "Some producers boast that their salt contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, but you'd have to eat an enormous amount to get your recommended daily intake this way." http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=324 If you spot someone using a mobile phone to snap photos of their lunch, don't be alarmed. It's an idea being touted to replace the tedious "write-it-all-down" food diary. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=325 Popcorn is crunchy, tasty and has fewer kilojoules than other snacks (about 0.37 kilojoules for three cups). It has fibre and virtually no fat when you pop it in a hot-air popper. But movie popcorn is a different story! It may be popped in palm or coconut oil (both saturated fats), and the average small bag has 1.67 kilojoules, with 27 grams of fat. Added butter almost doubles the fat and adds another 1.04 kilojoules. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=286 Putting sweets and snacks near the checkout is a sales device we are all probably aware of, but what other ingenious tricks are supermarkets using to pry more money from our wallets? A study by the British Consumer Association has revealed a few tactics you may not have heard of: http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=108 Ever short of inspiration for what to cook for dinner? You know you have some fresh ingredients in the fridge, but you just can't think of what to do with that bunch of rocket or packet of noodles. Sound familiar? http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=109 Food labels often try to disguise the amount of fat, salt or sugar added to boost flavour of the food we buy. Watch out for these words to see what you are really putting into your body. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=65 Most people know how to lose weight, says Cathy Nonas, director of obesity and diabetes programmes at North General Hospital in New York. "But what they don't know is how they sabotage their own efforts." http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=66 Get ready for the next big diet trend: whole grains. Food makers are trumpeting them on everything from biscuits to cereal. But just because a food has whole grains doesn't mean it's healthy, especially if it's loaded with sugar, says Dr Dean Ornish of the University of California, San Francisco. "It's better to eat whole grains with sugar than white flour with sugar," says Ornish. "But better still would be to eat whole grains that are low in sugar." (No more than 5-6 grams a serving.) Check the ingredients list: If sugar is first, there's probably too much to make a difference. Of course, you could make your own whole-grain snack, below. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=67 Going to religious services is apparently good for the body as well as the soul. According to Saint Louis University of Public Health in Missouri, regular churchgoers eat 26 per cent more "powerhouse" fruit and vegetables a�� those with the most nutrients, such as broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. And it's nothing to do with harvest festivals. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=68 1 1/2 cups wheat bran 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=32 Plastic containers and plastic-lined jam jar lids can become smelly if left closed. Fill with or soak in water, adding 3 tsp bicarbonate of soda per half litre. Leave overnight. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=33 We think of fruit and yogurt as good for you, but a diet high in these acidic foods, or fruit juice, wine, pickled products or fizzy soft drinks, can erode your tooth enamel. http://www.readersdigest.com.sg/rd/rdhtml/en/magazine/mag_content.jsp?cid=34 It seems every week they tell us something nice is bad for us. Good news, then, for cappuccino addicts: coffee may actually be good for you. A study at the National Cancer Centre in Tokyo found that subjects who drank coffee daily had about half the risk of a particular type of liver cancer as those who did not.