Nutrition News

Cholesterol Control In The Restaurant

In a recent article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, restaurants in New York City have a ban on trans fatty acid.

High cholesterol levels is one of the risk factors in cardiovascular disease.  Efforts to reduce high levels have focused mainly on consummer education and medication control.  The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene expanded those efforts to include a restriction of the undesirable source of fatty acids that contribute to high cholesterol - "trans fatty acids".

The first step was a voluntary effort allowing the restaurants to remove the artificial trans fatty acids used in cooking.  This effort did not result in many restaurants participating.  Therefore, in December 2006, the Board of Health required that all artificial trans fats be slowly removed from
restaurant food.  The Department provided technical assistance and by November 2008, the ban was in full effect.  The estimated used of artificial trans fat had decreased from 50% to less than 2% in frying, baking, cooking or in spreads.

Should nutritionists and dietitians adapt similar recommendations in diet counseling and meal planning?

Angell, Sonia   Annals 2009 151: 129-134

Green Tea Tonic:

When you pour a cup of refreshing green tea, save one fourth for a healthy facial toner. The antioxidants help to reduce aging.