Dairy foods have been getting a lot of attention from researchers in recent years, notably from studies done both jointly and separately by scientists at Harvard and Tufts universities. They looked at the relationship between full-fat dairy and the risks for heart disease and diabetes. A 3,000-participant study found that people who included dairy fat in their diet had a lower risk of diabetes. One theory for the link is that people who skip or limit dairy might compensate by eating more refined, low-fiber carbohydrates, which can increase diabetes risk. A study that followed more than 200,000 people over several decades looked at the relationship between dairy fat intake and heart disease. It found no increase in heart disease risk among people who ate dairy fat, although the risk was lowered when calories from dairy fat were replaced with calories from plant-based fats or whole grains — 24% when they were replaced by polyunsaturated fats and 28% when replaced with whole grains. On the other hand, the risk went up by 6% if those calories went instead to foods with other types of saturated fat, like red meat. A third piece of research reviewed nine studies that looked specifically at butter, another source of saturated fat, and its role in heart disease, diabetes and all causes of death. The analysis found that while plant-based fats…  read on >

If you’re a chili pepper lover who can take the heat, then take it to the next level with super spicy habaneros. Habaneros aren’t for the faint of heart. They rank among some of the world’s hottest chilies on the Scoville scale, which is used to measure the heat of all types of peppers. Habaneros have a round, almost pumpkin-like shape and come in a variety of colors, including orange and red. They also have a slight fruity aroma. Since they may be too spicy for some, a great way to serve them is with a chili chutney. Chutney is a thick, sweet condiment that can be served “on the side.” It’s a great way to turn adventurous people into chili fans. Before you get started, make sure your kitchen is well ventilated, since capsaicin, the active compound that gives habaneros their heat, can become airborne. You may want to wear disposable gloves to keep it off your skin and prevent irritation if you were to touch your eyes or nose with your fingers. If you want to tone down the habaneros’ heat somewhat, discard the seeds when you prep the peppers. An easy way to do this is to slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a small spoon, then cut the peppers as directed. If “the hotter, the better”…  read on >

Many Americans still don’t get enough fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods. If money and time are concerns, your favorite drive-through donut and coffee place in the morning and the closest fast-food chain for dinner might seem to better fit your schedule and budget, even if you know these foods aren’t nutritious. You may feel it’s just too hard to get the suggested five or more servings of fruits and veggies every day, and maybe you’ve even given up trying. In either case, results of a large global study should encourage you to reboot your efforts to eat healthier. The study examined eating patterns of people across 18 countries and how fruits, vegetables and legumes (beans, dried peas and lentils) affected mortality and heart health. Results confirmed that eating these healthy foods lowers the risk for heart disease, heart attacks and early death. They also showed you can get such benefits with just three or four daily servings. Now, this isn’t to say that you should cut back if you’re getting more, but people who are getting little to none can aim to meet this more modest goal. The studies offered other surprising findings. One is that eating more fruits, seeds and beans can be as good for you as eating more vegetables — that’s good news for those who just can’t wrap their taste…  read on >