Cancer-Fighting Holiday Foods -- Research Summary

HOLIDAY FOOD: The holidays are the time of year to relax with family and friends and celebrate with big feasts! The problem with holiday festivities is weight gain. Most Americans eat with their eyes rather than their stomachs, which leads to over-eating during the holidays. The average weight gain between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is about five pounds. (Source:http://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-holidays-8/holiday-food)

CRANBERRIES: Cranberries can provide a lot of antioxidants, which enhance overall health. Cranberries also contain proanthocyanidins that prevent the development of bacteria, such as E. coli, and urinary tract infections. They can also prevent bacteria from causing stomach ulcers and gum disease. Cranberries offer vitamin C and fiber, and they are a low-calorie snack beneficial to your health. (Source: http://www.cranberryinstitute.org/healthresearch.htm andhttp://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/cranberries-year-round-superfood)

ORANGE AND LEMON ZEST: It has become a habit for most people to dispose of their citrus peels once they have stripped the fruit, but you may want to reconsider throwing them away next time they are in your hands. Orange peels help lower cholesterol, they help with digestion, they aid in heartburn relief, and they can avert respiratory problems. These peels are not only good for your health, but they are useful around the house too. Orange peels can be used as air fresheners, cleaning products, and bug repellents. Lemon peels are also very resourceful. They can improve bone health, and help relieve stress. Lemon peels are also useful cleaning aids and they leave a fresh clean smell. (Source: http://healthmunsta.hubpages.com/hub/Benefits-of-Orange-Peels and http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-lemon-peels/)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Susan Bowerman, MS, RD, CSSD
Registered Dietitian - Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics
Assistant Director, UCLA Center for Human Nutrition
310-206-2596
sbowerman@mednet.ucla.edu