Podcast Reflection Week 13 (April 2-8)

PodcasterNews: Diet Science with Dee & Michael McCaffrey
Title: How to Go Organic on a Budget
Date: 2/28/07
Number:
Reflection:
This podcast discussed the growing amount of research generated by chemically enhanced foods and the serious toxic effect on people’s health. Dee spoke of the Environmental Working Group (WEG) that tests produce crops for chemicals or pesticides. They then compile a list of the most and least contaminated of those produce. This way you are better able to buy organic those that are most contaminated and buy regular produce where they are the least contaminated. Here is the list mentioned on the podcast:

• Most contaminated list – peaches, apples, bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, pears, grapes, spinach, lettuce, potatoes – should buy organic.
• Least – onions, avacotos, corn, pinable, mango, asperigas, bananas, broccoli, papaya.

More information is available at www.foodnews.com.

Something else discussed is why organic foods cost more. The reason is that the process of reaping and sowing is more time intensive. Also, labor for organic growing and testing is not subsidized while some other regular produce growing and testing are subsidized.

Dee also commented that washing and peeling do not make much difference in the debate on whether the produce will be less contaminated or not. Most of the testing is done with those taken into account with washing and peeling of the produce.

Fitness Rocks
Title: Fitness Rocks Short Run 009
Date: 4/4/07
Number: 9.
Reflection:
This podcast talked about the importance of vitamin D in our everyday health. An article about Hypovitaminosis D in British people published in the American Journal Clinical Nutrition talked about Vitamin D deficiency. This is especially predominate in northern latitudes, where sunlight is not as prevalent. Vitamin D is produced by cholesterol in response to sunlight, so in turn with little sunlight, there is also little Vitamin D production. Rickets in children (weakening of the bone from Vitamin D deficiency)were the concern due to Vitamin D deficiency in the past, but lately tests have also linked diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and Vitamin D deficiency to be a possible player in Multiple Sclerosis. Since Vitamin D is actually a hormone that the brain, intestines, and heart all need, you should have your doctor check several times each year, since the amount of peak sunlight differs during the seasons.

"Diet and Fitness Podcasts by Diet.com"
Title: Five Foods The Whole Family Will Enjoy
Date: N/A.
Number: N/A.
Reflection:
This podcast gave several foods that your family can enjoy while trying to stay healthy. The following are suggestions from this podcast: The hamburger can stay! Start using extra lean meat, grilling, whole grain buns, and veggies on the bun. Mac ‘n’ cheese can be healthy if a few moderations are made. Make your own and use whole wheat pasta. Throw in some frozen peas for a little additional nutrients. Pizza is the same way. By making your own you can control size and portions. Homemade crust is a great suggestion. You can also add grilled check instead of sausage, for a leaner meat choice. Lastly, breakfast. Breakfast burritos provide a great choice in the morning, throw all your ingredients into a whole wheat tortilla! Can’t forget a late night snack…try sorbet instead of ice-cream (ice-cream is full of fat)!