By David H. Rahm, M.D. Q: I’ve been taking a probiotic for years but lately I’m hearing more about prebiotics. What’s the difference between prebiotics and probiotics? And, should I be taking a prebiotic supplement? Emerging research over the past decade, has given us a greater appreciation for the role that probiotics –… Continue Reading
soluble fiber
A Granny Smith Apple a Day Keeps Obesity Away
An apple a day is supposed to keep the doctor away by reducing the risk of developing cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. But it’s time to add to that list, because in addition to being rich in important antioxidant polyphenols, flavonoids, and fiber, it turns out that the non-digestible compounds in… Continue Reading
Do I Need to Take a Fiber Supplement?
By David H. Rahm, M.D. Q: I try to eat whole grain bread and pasta but I wonder if I’m getting enough fiber in my diet. Should I take a fiber supplement? Ideally you want to get your daily fiber requirement from the foods you eat. Unfortunately, many popular foods from pizza to… Continue Reading
Low-Fiber Diet Linked to Increased Disease Risk
Did you know that eating more might help reduce your risk of obesity, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome? Eating more fiber, that is! While it’s well known that fiber can, well, keep things moving along, recent research is showing that it can do much, much more to prevent disease and keep us healthy. The… Continue Reading
Flax Seed
(Linum Usitatissimun) Flax seed is also known as common flax or linseed. Its scientific name Linum usitatissimun means “most useful” and is appropriate based on the wide range of uses for this plant. Flax seeds grow on the flax plant and thrive in cold climates. The plant was first introduced to Canada in… Continue Reading
Oats
(Avena sativa) Oats are one of the hardiest cereal grains. Unlike most other crops, this plant is able to withstand poor soil conditions and thrive. The oats we eat today originate from the wild red oat in Asia. Before being consumed as food, oats were used for medicinal purposes and are still used… Continue Reading