Final Student Questions of the Year! 2011-2012

If I don’t like to try new foods, what should I eat?

I have a few tips for you.  First, talk to your parents about filling the fridge and freezer with fresh, wholesome, healthy foods.  Many people don’t like to try new healthy foods because they are so used to eating the same things over and over – especially convenient processed food items.  One strategy is to get rid of the junk food so it’s not there, and replace it with healthy choices.  Another great suggestion would be to encourage your parents to get fresh food from farmers markets or even grow your own food in a garden.  It’s amazing how delicious fresh veggies and fruits taste when they are picked right off the vine!  Other than that, slowly start to try new foods.  Maybe start with one new food per month.  If you do that, before you know it you will be trying all sorts of new foods.  Part of a healthy nutritional plan is eating a variety of foods, so good luck!

What can you do to help your lungs?

One thing that might help is eating more antioxidants.  Antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables with dark deep colors, especially blues, purples, greens, oranges, and reds.  Antioxidants help by stopping things that cause wear and tear to our body, whether it is stress, pollution, bacteria, or injury.  They are like natural protectors.  They can protect the organs in the body, including the lungs.  Also, building up your aerobic energy system helps the lungs become more powerful.  Gradually start to do more endurance activity like jogging, swimming, and biking.  This will strengthen the heart, lungs, and muscles which should lead to better breathing.

If cocoa is grown on a tree, is hot cocoa and chocolate good for you?

Cocoa that has not been refined or changed is actually pretty good for you.  My recommendation is to eat dark chocolate that is at least 60-70% cocoa.  The higher the percentage of cocoa, the healthier it is.  High quality dark chocolate contains antioxidants and minerals, and is much lower in sugar than milk chocolate (which is not good for you).

What does watermelon improve?

Watermelon is rich in the micronutrient lycopene which protects the eyes and skin from damage.  It also contains vitamins C and A which support the immune system.

Does thinking hard make you hungry?

Thinking hard actually could make you somewhat hungry.  Your brain uses up a surprising amount of glucose as it helps you learn, understand, and solve problems.  It can also think better when it is nourished with omega-3 fats found in foods like fish and walnuts.

 

 

What is the best food to eat after working out?

The most important food to eat after a workout is something with protein.  Protein helps rebuild the muscles that were broken down during the workout.  Some excellent post workout foods include whey protein, meat, eggs, cottage cheese, and milk.  

Why does muscle put on more weight than fat?

Muscle weighs more by volume.  A pound of muscle will look smaller than a pound of fat – it takes up less space.  So, someone who is very muscular may weigh as much as someone who looks fat.