Health Buzz: Mindful Eating and Caffeine Facts

Health news from around the web for February 9th, 2012.

In this episode of Health Buzz, our host Jamie Yuenger is talking about mindful eating, surprising caffeine facts and some hot new super foods. Also, this week's Ask Mary addresses a question about complete proteins.

Mindful Eating May Aid Weight Loss

Slowing down and enjoying your food may be a trick to help you lose weight. This story discusses how mindfulness courses are helping people slim down, and some techniques that you can you can try too. Those who become more mindful of what they eat consume fewer calories because they feel satisfied sooner. This also means you should stop snacking while you're distracted, like while driving or watching TV.

Source: NPR

9 Surprising Caffeine Facts

Coffee may be less addictive than you think! This mild stimulant is very habit forming, which is probably what accounts for feelings of withdrawal when you stop cold-turkey. However, it doesn't create a strong compulsion like more potent stimulants such as cocaine or amphetamines. Another interesting fact about caffeine is that regular consumption may reduce the risk of heart disease, particularly among tea drinkers.

Source: LifeScript.com

10 Super Foods for 2012

These lesser-known super foods are sure to give your diet a nutritional boost, and can also help you lose weight. Guest blogger Alison Lewis shares her picks, which includes hemp seeds. Hemp seeds are nutty, and can be used in recipes instead of sesame seeds. Or you can add them to smoothies, soups or sprinkle them on salads.

Source: DietsInReview.com

Ask Mary: What Is a Complete Protein?

This week, registered dietitian Mary Hartley answers the reader question, "What is a complete protein?" She explains what foods contain complete proteins, and also what foods can be combined to create complete proteins. These complementary food combinations include rice and beans, cereal with milk, or legumes and seeds.

Recipe: Fennel and Apple Salad

You don't need lettuce to make a healthy salad. This salad recipe calls for fennel and apples, and is a good source of vitamin A. The dressing combines olive oil, lemon juice, bacon bits and Dijon mustard with just a pinch of salt and pepper. Simply slice up the apples and fennel, toss it all together and enjoy!

Source: GreenLiteBites.com