http://www.liveitlomalinda.org
Join the conversation and use #LiveItLomaLinda #almonds #avocado
Transcript Below:
Show Open
Patricia Kelikani (Host)
Health Journalist
With two-thirds of our population either overweight or obese, the emphasis tends to be on what you should not eat. However, when it comes to losing weight, instead ask yourself “what should I eat?”
Dr. Mark Reeves (Host)
Surgical Oncologist
Obesity is a huge problem in America. It increases one’s risk of heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, cancer and the list goes on.
Patricia Kelikani (Host)
So let’s focus on two foods that we should eat if we want to lose weight—avocados and almonds.
Dr. Mark Reeves (Host)
Researchers added half of an avocado to the subjects’ lunch meals and found that they felt fuller over a longer period of time and had less of a desire to eat. Not only that, but their insulin levels decreased after the meal.
Dr. Ella Haddad
LLU Associate Professor of Nutrition
A lot of people think that because avocados are high in fat that they are fattening. But that is not necessarily so, because higher fat foods help you feel full.”
Patricia Kelikani (Host)
You see, avocados contain monounsaturated fat; it’s a healthy type of fat that our bodies need to reduce LDLs, that’s the bad cholesterol in our blood.
Dr. Mark Reeves (Host)
This fruit also contains 20 vitamins and minerals. And almonds have a similar effect.
The high protein, high fat, and high fiber content in these nuts help us feel more full.
Patricia Kelikani (Host)
In fact, a researcher found in a weight control program that those who ate almonds as a snack had longer and better sustained weight reduction than those in the popcorn group. The study also found that people do not gain weight by eating a handful of almonds every day.
But more than losing weight, it’s what these foods do to help combat the negative health effects of obesity.
So how should we incorporate avocados and almonds into our daily diet?
Dr. Ella Haddad
My recommendation would be about half an avocado. So, to substitute that too for maybe some of the butter, or the high fat cheese that is usually consumed at meal times.
Dr. Mark Reeves (Host)
And, for almonds, eat a handful a day. You can also substitute it for saturated fats like cheese and meat for added health benefits.
Patricia Kelikani (Host)
Liven up your diet by being creative with these foods. Instead of putting butter on your toast, top it with almond butter or avocado. You can even make a delicious avocado shake with almond milk. For a healthier take on dessert, make chocolate pudding with avocado instead of the dairy. Then top it with slivered almonds.
There’s your tip for the day…
Dr. Mark Reeves (Host)
… on how you can live healthier, longer.
All health and health-related information contained in this program is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for a visit with a health care professional. Viewers should consult their health care providers concerning any medical condition or treatment.