KTK-Nutrition

Colon cancer was always a concern for people over the age of 50.    But now, it is becoming increasingly more common for people under the age of 50 to be diagnosed with colon cancer.    While colon cancer has been declining for older adults, since 1990 colorectal cancer has been increasing in younger adults (under 50) with rates increasing 2% a year.   What is the incidence of colon cancer in younger adults? Among those younger than 55 years of age, the proportion of cases increased from 11% in 1995 to 20% in 2019.  Although the  overall rate  dropped by 1% each year from 2012 to 2021, the drop was mostly in older adults, those 65 and older.    Why is the incidence of colon cancer increasing in younger adults? Research is investigating the  reasons  but factors being explored are diet, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and even changes in the gut microbiome, the bacteria in your gut.  (See:   Healthie...

Many people are coffee lovers including me.   But I also enjoy a cup or two of tea every day.   Add some tea to your day and you add many health benefits.   Tea is rich in antioxidants, some vitamins, and minerals, and has been linked to improved heart health, better digestion, and enhanced mental clarity.   Some studies have shown tea may decrease one’s risk of type 2 diabetes and cancer.   Whether you prefer green, black, oolong, white or herbal teas, each type of tea offers its unique array of health-promoting properties.   In this blog post I explore the many health benefits of enjoying some tea.    Black Tea What is it made from?   Made from leaves of a plant.   Oxidation , “leaves exposed to moist oxygen-rich air”, is what turns the leaves from green to a black color.   Examples:   English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Darjeeling Black Tea, Ceylon Black Tea   Health Benefits:   Heart: Drink black tea often an...

Who knew that simply snacking on baby carrots can have such a health benefit?   Baby carrots are not only a convenient snack, but they also pack a nutritional punch. These little orange wonders are high in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for good vision, immune function, and skin health. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight and digestive system. How would simply snacking on baby carrots lead to improved health? Researchers at Samford University found that adding baby carrots to your day at least 3 times a week resulted in more carotenoids in your skin.   Why is this a good thing?   According to nutritionist , Mary Harper Simmons, “…people who consume and have high levels of carotenoids have higher levels of antioxidant activity going on in the body, which means that there are lower levels of inflammation and lower risk of chronic illnesses such as hea...