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Students in Dr. Tonya Coffey's Appalachian State University's physics class tested the science behind the volatile Mentos/Diet Coke reaction, publishing their results in the American Journal of Physicsin 2008.They, too, concluded that the "surface roughness" of the Mentos is "one of the main causes of the reaction."

As it sinks, the Mentos produces more bubbles, which react with carbon dioxide in the soda, rewarding you with a Diet Coke geyser. Speed also matters, and the faster the Mentos sinks, the larger the eruption. Mentos are dense candies, which aids the sinking process a factor the study explored by comparing reactions made with whole Mentos versus crushed ones, the latter of which resulted in weaker eruptions. Additionally, diet sodas produce bigger reactions than regular sodas, because diet sodas such as Diet Coke contain potassium benzoate and the artificial sweetener, aspartame, as opposed to sugar or corn syrup. "These ingredients reduce the work required for bubble formation, allowing carbon dioxide to rapidly escape from the soda,"Coffey and her students found, after comparing the "contact angle for aspartame and water in contrast to pure water or sugar water."

And while Snopes long ago debunked the rumor that eating Mentos and drinking Diet Coke can kill you, exercising caution when attempting to mix these two products together is recommended. However, the American Chemical Society provides step-by-step instructions on how to safely make a Mentos soda fountain, so this is one experiment you can try at home.

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Here's What Really Causes Diet Coke And Mentos To React - Mashed

What can you add to a wide variety of foods, from cereals to salads, thats crunchy, filling, and flavorful and good for your heart? The answer is nuts. While all varieties of nuts are chock full of important nutrients, walnuts may be especially good for protecting cardiovascular health, according to a recent study in the journal Circulation that supports earlier research in this realm.

The Walnuts and Healthy Aging study is a randomized controlled trial supported by a grant from the California Walnut Commission that tracked healthy older adults living in two communities. For the study, researchers recruited 708 adults ages 63 to 79 living in Loma Linda, California, or Barcelona, Spain, and split them into two groups. One group added about a quarter-cup to a half-cup of walnuts to their daily diet for two years, while the other group ate no walnuts.

After two years, average levels of harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were modestly lower in the walnut group. Of note: nearly a third of the participants were taking cholesterol-lowering statins, so the average cholesterol levels of both groups were already in a normal range. The researchers speculate that the cholesterol-lowering benefits from walnuts might be more pronounced in people with elevated cholesterol levels. There is no way to know from the current data if this is true.

"This recent trial confirms what earlier studies have found, namely, that that adding walnuts to your diet appears to improve your cholesterol levels," says Dr. Deirdre Tobias, an obesity and nutritional epidemiologist at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Womens Hospital. The new trial also lasted much longer than past walnut studies. However, its not clear what foods were being replaced by the walnuts in the participants diets, which might affect the magnitude of benefits the researchers saw. For example, replacing unhealthful, ultra-processed snacks with walnuts would presumably have a greater benefit than a lateral move from healthy options to walnuts, Dr. Tobias explains.

The researchers also analyzed the concentration and size of the LDL particles. Smaller, more dense LDL particles are more likely to trigger atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty plaque inside arteries thats the hallmark of most cardiovascular disease that results in heart attacks or strokes.

The walnut eaters had lower levels of these smaller particles. They also had decreased levels of intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL), which are also linked to a rise in cardiovascular-related risks. And even though a quarter-cup of chopped walnuts is about 190 calories (and a half-cup is about 380 calories), the walnut eaters did not pack on any extra pounds.

Earlier research has found that people who eat nuts regularly are less likely to have heart disease, and many studies have focused specifically on walnuts. In 2018, Dr. Tobias and colleagues published a meta-analysis and systematic review of studies that examined how eating walnuts affects a persons blood lipids and other heart-related risks. The review included 26 controlled trials involving a total of more than 1,000 people. It found that walnut-enriched diets led to lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, the most common form of fat in the bloodstream.

Although all nuts are good sources of healthy unsaturated fats, walnuts are especially rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This is a precursor to the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA found in fatty fish that are known for their heart-protecting powers. Our bodies convert ALA to EPA and DHA, although the efficiency of this varies from person to person.

Whats more, walnuts are usually eaten raw. So they have greater antioxidant abilities than nuts that are usually eaten roasted. (Antioxidants help prevent or reduce the artery-damaging oxidation that contributes to heart disease).

It's worth noting that the FDA allows a qualified health claim on some nuts (including walnuts). Foods made with them are permitted to include the following statement: "Eating a diet that includes one ounce of nuts daily can reduce your risk of heart disease." An ounce of walnuts is about a handful, or one-quarter cup.

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

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Walnuts: A worthy addition to your daily diet? - Harvard Health

Zone diet is a diet plan where each meal plan is broken up such that it has 40 per cent carbohydrates, 30 per cent protein and 30 per cent fat. This is different from a traditional Western diet, as you have slightly lesser carbs, more protein and less fat. Lesser carbs and more protein help in keeping your blood sugar levels stable, reduce inflammation and help you lose fat quickly, says the proponent and founder of the diet, Barry Sears.However, experts believe that the zone diet is no better than other fad diets. How does a zone diet work?

Zone diet works by reducing inflammation throughout the body. It does not exclude any food group. The reduction of inflammation helps in burning the fat as quickly as possible.

Foods to be avoided during zone diet- Processed grains like pasta, bread and rice should be avoided- Food high in sugar like sweeteners, desserts, juice and fruits like banana, cantaloupe, watermelon, mango and pineapple- Starchy vegetables like peas, corn and potatoes- High-fat and processed proteins like steaks, hot dogs and hamburgers

Food you can consume on zone diet- Whole grains like barley and oatmeal- Low-sugar fruits and vegetables like apples, berries, broccoli and kale- Lean protein like chicken breast, fish, turkey and egg whites and low fat dairy- The diet also suggests to take fish oil supplements with fruit and vegetable extractsHow to follow zone dietThere is an easy way to remember zone diet - hand and block method. The number 5 is like five fingers in your hand representing 3 meals a day, plus 2 snacks and also reminds you never to go more than 5 hours in between meals.

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Zone diet: How does it work and should you follow it? - Times of India

Her daughter, Anna Lapp, 47, who is carrying on her mothers work as an author and sustainable food advocate, said that when she thinks of her childhood home, I can picture tall glass Mason jars filled with beans and lentils.

The family shopped in bulk at a food co-op, and Ms. Lapp cooked simple, healthy dishes like the carrot soup, freezing the leftovers for quick weeknight meals. Fifty years later, Ms. Lapp still cooks that way. (And she still has the inner glow of a health food devotee.)

But while the family lived in crunchy Berkeley, it must be said that Ms. Lapp was no hippie. She grew up in a literal cow town, Fort Worth, where she was a football cheerleader, and her activism took root at her small Quaker college, Earlham. Her stylish, put-together appearance on TV and in college auditoriums made it hard to dismiss her as a California kook or scold. As Ms. Lapps Twitter bio states, she has always viewed herself as hope monger. (It gets more challenging every year, she said with a laugh.)

Sitting in her kitchen, with its same glass jars of grains and beans on the shelves, Ms. Lapp reflected on her long-ago conversion. Not eating meat, I call it my act of rebel sanity, she said. It was like opening the door. The world of taste, color, texture is in the plant world. I tell people, it wasnt a sacrifice. It was a discovery.

Which brings us around to her final hamburger, in 1971. Ms. Lapp was expecting her first child. As she put it, women who are pregnant get certain cravings, so she found her way to a joint called the Smokehouse. Munching on a charbroiled burger, Ms. Lapp looked up, and there, walking through the door, was the man who was helping her edit her book.

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The Godmother of Plant-Based Living - The New York Times

Bob HarperIt had been a widow-maker2017. Heart attack The shocking news was not surprising, considering that the 52-year-old had been portrayed as an example of healthy living. He was a long-running fitness trainer on the show. The Biggest Loser. He was even In the gymHe suffered a major heart attack.

At 56 years old, the TV personality and author is back in prime-time. This time, hes hosting The Biggest Loser. His lifestyle has had a major overhaul since 2017 and were hopeful that his healthier lifestyle will show through in the reboot.

His book credits include The Skinny Rules, Jumpstart to Skinny, Skinny MealsAnd The Super Carb Diet. His titles seem to have a common theme. Harper recently stated that he had added a theme in an email. The Washington Post that, Skinny does not always equate to being healthy.

Harper was following a low-carb diet before his heart attack. Harper speaks to Mens HealthHe said, Before I was eating high-protein, high-fat. I worked out really intensely. And I had this voracious appetite. [Now] I look at my protein, fat, and carbs. I tend to stay a little low fat. I stay away from red meat.

Harper believes balance is crucial. After his heart attack, Harper began to practice yoga and meditate. He shared his story. Good eating habits, Ive been in the health and fitness industry for almost 30 years now, but I had to pivot my life and redefine the way that I ate and worked out. He now eats a largelyMediterranean diet.

He continued, I live on mostly fish, sometimes chicken, and lots of vegetables.

The Mayo ClinicThe Mediterranean Diet is an excellent choice. heart-healthy”A diet containing mostly plant-based foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices.”Olive oil should be consumed in moderation. Fish and poultry can be enjoyed occasionally. Red meat, sweets and other processed foods are seldom eaten.

Harper recently shared one his heart-healthy favorite recipes, his Chicken Taco BowlOn his Instagram. His taco bowl is delicious and heart-healthy, thanks to the addition of nonfat Greek yogurt and low sodium seasoning. Other recipes to try include Harpers BFF Rachel Rays Easy Greek SaladOr Kelsey Nixons Mediterranean Chicken Stir-Fry.

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Bob Harper's Diet Underwent A Major Overhaul After His Heart Attack: How He Switched Things Up - Central Recorder

Tis the season for desserts, cocktails and everything thats delicious.

Although diet advice does change throughout the years, likely most health experts would agree: You dont want an excessive amount of sugar in your system. Occasional treats and splurges are fun, but a diet thats consistently filled with excess sugar can lead to things like obesity, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Our bodies do need sugar, but youll want to steer clear of added sugars, like in processed food, which can be way more than what we need.

Follow these steps to limit the amount of sugar you consume daily, and improve your overall health.

A lot of people dont realize just how much sugar theyre consuming in their drinks every day.

A soda can have as much sugar as a candy bar.

Even if you dont eat candy or chocolate, you could still be overindulging when it comes to sugar.

Buying sugar-heavy coffee daily will absolutely cause your sugar intake to skyrocket. As hard as it may be, you have to skip the sugary drinks in favor of water.

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Simply switching to water with every meal will most definitely limit the amount of sugar you consume daily.

Healthy choices in the morning will set you up for success.

The sad truth is, a lot of breakfast food is full of sugar. Donuts, muffins, pancakes with syrup, and cereal can all be chock-full of unwanted sugar.

High sugar intake in the morning will leave you feeling sluggish instead of energized. Opt for healthier breakfast options like a fruit smoothie, oatmeal or eggs.

Dont let breakfast skew your sugar intake for the rest of the day.

There are probably a lot of foods you believe are low in sugar that actually arent.

Sugar can even hide in bread or dried fruit. Dont play the guessing game when it comes to sugar -- know exactly how much sugar is in everything youre purchasing.

Unfortunately, reading the label isnt always easy, as manufacturers use many names for sugar. Search the nutrition label for high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, maltose, dextrose, rice syrup, or molasses.

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When you get smarter about checking your nutrition labels, youll be more in control of the amount of sugar you consume.

Its fine to have dessert on occasion, but if youre a daily dessert eater, it might be time to cut back.

If youre eating something sweet every time you have a meal, your sugar intake might be too high.

If you find your sweet tooth is hard to control after you eat, try having a few pieces of fresh fruit. Allow natural sweetness to quell your cravings.

Remember, its OK to have sweet treats in moderation. Being militaristic about your diet will drain you and may cause you to give up on healthy eating entirely.

So, dont be afraid to grab some candy now and again, just make sure you arent also consuming too much sugar on a daily basis.

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3 easy ways to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet - KSAT San Antonio

By Wayne and Wanda

Updated: 12 hours ago Published: 12 hours ago

Yoga on the Anchorage park strip. (Bill Roth / ADN archives)

Dear Wayne and Wanda,

I put on weight during COVID. Im not happy about it and Im working on getting back in shape but its slow going and frankly I have trouble sticking with my diet plan or exercising. I wish it was easier for me but it just isnt. I feel insecure at the gym and I realize sometimes I do eat food because it tastes good, not because Im hungry. I know all this, and Im working on it. Thats not necessarily the problem.

The problem is my best friend. She had the opposite COVID experience and somehow over the past two years, she managed to get in great shape and has never looked better, been thinner, or seemed happier. Shes taken up yoga and jogging and is gung-ho about trying some winter sports.

All she talks about anymore is diet and exercise and she is full of advice for me, whether its what to eat or drink or what workouts I should try. She invites me to work out with her constantly even though I always decline. I am so tired of her talking about weight, calories, etc. Its getting to a point where I dont even want to hang out which is lame because she really is a great friend. She must know how insecure I am feeling and it totally doesnt help that getting fit was so easy for her. I need to convey that she isnt being helpful but I dont want to hurt her feelings because I do believe her heart is in the right place. Advice?

Wanda says:

Let me make sure I understand: Youre unhappy and struggling to get on track and regain your health, and your friend is offering you actionable advice and inviting you to participate in sporty activities that support your goals? How dare she!

Not to make light of this I think all women understand how touchy these topics can feel, and I get that her overenthusiastic coaching is totally overwhelming in the worst way. Lets consider the alternatives. She could be the worst kind of friend, tempting you to make poor choices. Whats more common in these situations is friends are passively sympathetic but generally silent on matters that are so intensely personal. She might wait for you to bring up your weight struggles, and maybe offer some tepid advice, but would generally avoid rocking the boat by saying anything that could be perceived as judgmental.

Instead, shes actually trying to help. And maybe she is going slightly overboard, but shes coming from a place of experience. She recently went through her own transformation, and it might have looked easy, but she surely put in the work. If shes as dear a friend as you say, you can handle this frankly without upsetting her. Acknowledge your struggles with your weight and accountability are real, and while some occasional tips could be useful, really you just need your friend, not a personal trainer.

Wayne says:

Yes, your friends heart is in the right place, and like her, I am a firm believer in the many positives of regular exercise. But lets forget about fitness for a moment and check in on your heart. The lack of motivation to get into a groove, the body insecurity, the frustration with your results, the reliance on food for comfort and escape, and the annoyance with your sweat-obsessed friend right now, it sounds more like you need to focus on getting healthier emotionally by exploring your anxiety and depression than getting back into great physical shape and keeping up with your best fitness friends lifestyle regimen.

Anxiety and stress can create major roadblocks to our life and square goals, even the goal of simple daily functioning. They certainly make it tougher to dig out of a hole and get a positive flow started. No wonder its tough to get started when you feel like youre performing in front of a bunch of other people, including your friend, who seemingly already have it all together. Look, theres nothing to be ashamed of and no reason to feel alone. More people than ever are going through some version of your emotional struggles right now. The pandemic and its accompanying stress and strangeness has worked a number on everyone to some extent.

Your friend is an outlier in many ways, so comparing yourself to her or trying to meet her expectations will more likely fuel the issues youre already troubled with and even make things worse. So hold off on the personal trainer and find a counselor to talk things through with. When youre in a better space and ready to get regularly physical with others, Im sure your bestie will be there with a training and diet suited plan just for you.

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I gained weight during COVID, but my best friend got healthier. All she talks about anymore is diet and exercise. - Anchorage Daily News

When our wonderful Greek food and wine come up in discussions with non-Greeks, the phrase Mediterranean Diet is sure to be heard, but that term is limited in several ways.

First of all, the strongest scientific findings about the tremendous health and wellness benefits of such diets are associated mainly with what can properly be called the Greek Diet pasta is one of my favorite foods, but it should not be at the core of healthful cuisine.

Of course, some experts further insist that it is the Cretan Diet which is most beneficial but lets leave that to friendly discussions with our friends from different parts of Greece over good Greek wine.

During my recent first return to the United States after moving permanently to Greece a few years ago, I have confirmed that Greek wines continue to make inroads here, with more and more brands and varieties available in shops and non-Greek restaurants.

When I return to the homeland in a few days, I will also look forward some very nice Greek craft beers which tourists are enjoying there now, and which maybe will reach their home countries in the future. Be sure to try some during your next trip.

The discussion so far has been empirical you can google the articles about the research, ask for Greek wines in your favorite restaurants, and try some beer when you go back to Greece but beyond the facts, there is the feel, of a nice Greek meal, and I will note that it is not a coincidence that The National Heralds annual Food & Wine special section comes out around Thanksgiving.

There is a reason why the family holiday par excellence is centered on the family dinner table and not houses of worship, civic and religious processions and presentations, or parties with friends the act of sharing a meal with our loved ones is one of the gateways of holiness into our lives that is expressed by the extra care taken by those who prepare our food selecting, preparing, and cooking the best on offer, and giving thanks to God for our loved ones.

And as we describe some of the reasons why Thanksgiving is such a special holiday one we wish more countries would adopt since gratitude is one of the most healing and life-enhancing emotions it is time to add another dimension to the Greek diet, since a case can be made that every family meal in Ellada is a Thanksgiving celebration.

One of The National Heralds most popular features is the Botanist column written by Evropi-Sofia Dalampira, who holds an Msc in Botany-Biology. Week after week, she points out the nutritional and medical value of food sources many take for granted but which scientists and physicians tout for their contribution to good health.

This week she points out, however, that that it not just the ingredients in their meals that gives places like Ikaria a global reputation as the island of longevity.

The Greek traditional way of living, includes not only diet but socialization. It is a general way of doing and I would say, of being.

Many of us read the wonderful books of historian Edith Hamilton in high school or college, especially, The Greek Way. There was something special in Hellenic civilization that caused it to contribute so much to humanity. Yes, there is the unique blend of shore and sun and mountains, the combination of openness to the world by sea and the fierce autonomy of mainland regions and islands. These led to practices and principles like democracy and cosmopolitanism which can be transplanted to locales all over the world.As they say, Greeks are everywhere and so are their restaurants, which are beacons of the good life as practiced in Greece.

And Greek cooking, the offerings of the typical Greek table, inside and outside the home, with its remarkable balances and blendings, reflects the contributions of the rest of classical Hellenic civilization and the best of contemporary Hellenism.

There is one principle that seems to permeate whole spectrum of Hellenic time, place, and activities: Aristotles metron ariston measure is best.

While it is easy to find the extremes of workaholism and indifference among Diaspora and Homeland Hellenes, the success in life and work of most is reflected in the balance they try to strike in their lives, in Greece, if not in America: they dont live to work, they work in order to live.

And in their work motivated by that untranslatable word philotimo a Greek ideally takes pride in making a contribution, to their organizations and communities. Again, that is reflected in the care and love taken by cooks at home and in Greek restaurants everywhere, wanting nothing less than to make everyone at their tables feel both filled and fulfilled

And those restaurants are Embassies of Hellas and Hellenism around the world something rarely appreciated by Greek officials and journalists. Greek food and wine, well-presented and mixed with the spirit of that other great Greek word, philoxenia-hospitality, makes Greek-Americans and non-Greeks yearn for Greece.

Happy holidays to all see you in Ellada next year.

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The Greek Diet and the Greek Way Good Things Go Together - Breaking & Latest News, Greece, Cyprus, Hellenic Diaspora News - The National Herald

One glance at social media and its easy to see that America is obsessed with diet and nutrition. Nearly everyone has tried to lose weight by following one of these restrictive diets. However, the ketogenic diet has proven to be a revolutionary new way to lose weight.

Many people have been able to lose weight quickly with the low-carb/high-fat diet. Although it may have appeared to be a blessing, many health care professionals are now questioning the wisdom of this diet.

Every year, U.S.News & World Report publishes an analysis of the best and worst diets for health, according to an expert panel.The keto diet ranks second overall, behind the Gut and Psychology Syndrome, with 39 diets. 2021 Report.

While the keto diet is a fast and effective way to lose weight, other aspects of it performed poorly. Keto was, however, only deemed to be effective in weight loss. minimally effectiveFor diabetes prevention or control Experts. One expert even went so far as to say, It is not safe for people with diabetes.

The keto diet scored only 1.9 stars out five in terms of safety. It has been controversial for many years because of its high-fat content. The panelists acknowledged that this trendy diet could prove to be dangerous for some. One expert cautioned that people with kidney disease, diabetes and heart disease need to be cautious.

The health panel found that keto is significantly more difficult than other diets on 2021. Following this eating plan long term is the most difficult aspect of this diet regime,One expert pointed out.

The keto diet also lacks a balanced nutritional approach, contrary to the Mediterranean diet, which is ranked Americas top diet.People become very bored just eating fatty foods, fat, and meat.Another expert defined keto as the hardest of the extremely hard!

The keto diet is much more restrictive than most diets. So, its not surprising experts rated keto difficult to follow. The keto lifestyle was scored in the nutrition category. extremely incomplete.One panelist explained that Any diet that recommends snacking on bacon cant be taken seriously as a health-promoting way to eat.

While U.S. News & World Reportrated the ketogenic diet nearly last in terms of overall health, it continues to gain popularity. According to keto supporters, the proof is in their pudding. If you follow the keto diet properly, it will help to lose extra weight and improve your health. But, health experts arent yet convinced.

In spite of the keto diets ability to aid in weight loss, its long-term effects remain unclear.Robin ForoutanThe Morrison Centers registered nutritionist and integrative dietitian, Dr. Judith explains. Insider that a big factor in the U.S. News rankings is the amount of research supporting various diets, which may explain ketos low scores.

When you get to more diets that are newer, theres less published data and less time for prolonged studies, sotheyre almost always going to rank lower because theres not as much evidence, Foroutan explained.

In The Ketogenic Diets Advantages and Drawbacks: A Review ArticleAlthough the review does not analyze all data, it provides some insight. However, the review discusses the benefits and dangers of the ketogenic lifestyle. It was found that after six to 12 months, blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides decreased, while HDL (high-density lipoprotein) increased.goodcholesterol)increased, and weight loss occurred.

The effects of keto are often not evident after a year. Furthermore, the effects in the studied studies were not noticed. statistically significant.More research is necessary to establish the long-term effects on the ketogenic diet.

Despite ketos beneficial effects on HDL-C, the concomitant rise in LDL-C and very-low-density lipoproteins may pose cardiovascular risks, according to the review.

A few small samples and a short time span of each study in the review raise doubts about the generalizability or validity. Consequently, its difficult to assess the diets risk or make recommendations to individuals with individual comorbidities.

Its difficult to know if the keto diet can be sustained. It may offer a quick solution to other weight loss methods, but at what price?

There are simpler, more efficient ways to keep your health healthy. The U.S. News rankings include several diets that have support.

The Mediterranean diet is balanced and easy to follow. Its also scientifically supported. best diet in 2021.You can also find the Mediterranean dietPromotes a healthy lifestyle that includes limiting red meat, sugar, saturated fat, and other unhealthy foods. A plant-based diet is recommended by the top diet, which is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Choose the path that feels more comfortable for your health and wellbeing. Unbalanced eating may make it difficult to achieve balance.

Link:
Here's Why Experts Are Not Grabbing The Keto Diet Highly - Central Recorder

Deborah E. Linder, DVM, MS, DACVN, discusses the latest research and guidance surrounding popular pet food diets during a Fetch dvm360 talk.

It behooves veterinary professionals to understand the nuances between polarized dietary trends. With so many pet food products on the market, mining the best diet to match each patients needs can pose a unique challenge to many professionals working with clients who are seeking the best nutrition plan for their pets.

During her lectures at a recent Fetch dvm360 conference, Deborah E. Linder, DVM, MS, DACVN, a research assistant professor at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University in North Grafton, Massachusetts, discussed the latest research and recommendations for veterinary therapeutic diets (VTDs) and OTC diets, as well as home-cooked meals for pets.

VTDs require approval from a veterinarian and are formulated to help manage 1 or more disease processes in cats and dogs, said Linder. Because of this special formulation, not all VTDs will be complete and balanced, she noted, adding that this includes meeting the minimum and maximum nutrients levels presented by the Association of American Feed Control Officials(AAFCO).

VTDs are clinically studied to weigh certain vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and other nutritional components to determine their effect on the disease process.1 Conditions such as gastrointestinal (GI) disease, as well as obesity and cardiac disease, require a case-by-case assessment as to whether a pets diet requires modification to accommodate a need that would otherwise be available in OTC foods.2 Digestibility of nutrients should always be a key consideration when selecting a diet for a patient presenting with GI disease.3

Although there is a suite of nutritional and nonnutritional diseases that can affect the GI tract, several therapeutic diets are available for these conditions such as highly digestible diets, novel antigen or hypoallergic diets, hydrolyzed (protein) diets, and those with added concentrations of dietary fiber.3

OTC diets typically have a higher risk of contamination with common pet food proteins than VTDs.4 However, VTDs tend to be more stringent and costly than OTC diets. Communication to owners about the difference between VT and OTC diets can promote adherence, especially in cases where the diet must be fed exclusively for benefit, noted Linder.

According to Linder, despite anecdotal stories surrounding the benefits of home-prepared diets for cats and dogs, there is no evidence in findings from peer-reviewed clinical trials to support these claimsespecially when it comes to home-prepared diets being healthier than commercial diets in general. For clients seeking nutritional advice, she recommended they consult with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and be prepared to follow a strict recipe daily that requires weighing.

One threat to pets with owners implementing home-prepared diets is unbalanced recipes, according to Linder. Often, diet recipes that are available on websites and in books, including those created by veterinarians, are vague, outdated, or deprived of essential nutrients that are needed for a balanced and complete diet. According to Linder, investigators in one study evaluated recipes for dogs and discovered that only 9 of 200 recipes met the basic nutrient requirements for commercial pet foods.5 However, perhaps the most concerning aspect of unbalanced recipes, said Linder, is that pets that are fed a deficient diet may not demonstrate adverse clinical signs or hallmark complications for years. This can make owners believe their pet is fine until a serious health issue arises that may not be easilyreversed.5

Another concern about home-prepared diets is quality control. A formulated diet by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist ultimately ensures that the recipe will meet the AAFCO minimum and maximum nutrient guidelines along with the pets individualized nutrient needs. Unlike commercial foods, which undergo thorough quality control testing, digestibility trials, and feeding trials to assess for bioavailability and nutrient adequacy, home-cooked diets do not undergo any form of safety and nutritional testing. It is recommended that pets eating homecooked diets have routine veterinary visits and laboratory tests (ie, blood work and urine testing), more so than those eating commercial diets.2

References

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Considerations to bear in mind with dietary trends - DVM 360

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