ASK BONNIE for July 2005
Question #1:
Bonnie, what are your thoughts about drinking pomegranate juice
to improve blood flow? Do you know of any research that supports
pomegranate supplements as being as effective as drinking the juice?
Answer #1:
Pomegranate was a popular remedy in very ancient times and mentioned
often in biblical passages for healing. For instance, an infusion from
the root of the pomegranate was used in ancient times to help remove
tapeworms! Recently, it has been associated with detoxification as well.
It's as or more effective than red wine for heart health. I would
recommend 1/4 cup POM brand or other pure pomegranate juice daily as a
good all-around tonic.
There's scant recent research on the subject of pomegranate supplements.
When you can or are willing to eat the real food (i.e. garlic, grapes,
pomegranate, etc.), I always recommend that as a first option.
Question #2:
There is a new sugar-free sweetener showing up on health food store shelves -
Lo Han. I believe it is derived from a Chinese fruit. Do you have any
thoughts on the safety of this product ?
Answer #2:
Actually, Lo Han has been around for years and is safe from what I have seen.
It does have glycemic properties, albeit lower than all types sugar. So for diabetics
and those who do not want to have any added glycemic carbohydrates, I still
recommend stevia as the optimal sweetener because it has no glycemic properties.
Question #3:
I have a question about fiber? It is concerning simple and complex
carbs. For example, a serving size for pasta is a half cup. Will white pasta
raise blood sugar quicker even if it is eaten as half cup? Are they both
the same because of the same quantity?
Answer #3:
Complex carbs raise blood sugar more slowly than do simple carbs. Fiber is not the only reason for this, however. Grains for most people genetically
create a higher glycemic load (foods turning quickly into sugar) than do fruits/vegetables. If a food has a high glycemic load, eating it with protein
or fat will slow down the absorption and prevent blood sugar highs and lows.
Have a happy, healthy day.
Past Ask Bonnie entries:
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2000 Jan,
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2001 Jan,
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July,
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2002 Feb, Mar,
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2003 Jan,
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2004 Jan,
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Apr, May, June, July, August, Sept, Oct, Nov/Dec
2005 Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, June
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