Sam Lewandowski RD’s Nutrition News Roundup – Week of 6/21

From Endurance Sports to Health Problems

If you’re working out, and competing in events, you’re automatically healthy, right? That can often be the assumption, especially if we look the part on the outside. But how you fuel yourself is critical. I’d like to think that every athlete considers their own health and nutrition before setting out on their run/hike/swim/bike, etc., but I know that’s not the case. This brief article is a great reminder on an issue that is sometimes overlooked. Women athletes, read up. And eat up!

Organic = Healthy

Stacey and I were just discussing this very issue. Organic foods seem to have the “health halo,” and people assume they are better for you in more ways than one, as this new study indicates. The science on organic foods being healthier overall is still very mixed. But having less calories than their conventional counterparts? Oh, the assumptions we make to justify our choices! Take a quick look, and keep in mind the study participants were college students.

Cartoon characters and kids’ choices

Those familiar faces are hard for kids to resist, and this recent study drives that point home. It’s already an uphill battle to help kids enjoy fruits and vegetables – not impossible, but it takes effort. My hope: May learning this information make it (at least slightly) more uncomfortable to buy those products again.