Let's look at the latest health news
Plus, recipe inspo including Turmeric Chicken with Asparagus and Italian Wedding Soup
In the news
Here are some links to recent articles in the news that have caught our attention.
Update on fats: Results from a new study published in JAMA found that an increased intake of plant-based oils and less intake of butter was associated with decreased risk of cancer, heart disease and 17% lower risk of premature death. For additional reading:
Using oil, seed oils included, instead of butter lowered risk of premature death, says study (STAT) “This new research adds to a large body of science on the health benefits of these plant oils, whose positive effects on cholesterol levels, blood glucose, and cardiovascular disease have been demonstrated in numerous large observational studies and dozens of randomized trials.”
Eating less butter may improve health, protect against heart disease and cancer (NBCNews) “We’re not saying that people should give up butter entirely…But we’re suggesting that a small reduction in the daily consumption of butter and an increase in plant-based oil could lead to significant long-term health benefits.”
In food policy news: Time to tackle obesogenic environments, an editorial published in The Lancet, advocates for stronger government policies to combat obesogenic environments, something we should all be talking about more. “Healthy food availability and affordability, safe walking and cycling infrastructure or sports facilities, cultural norms or traditions, media influence and regulatory environment—all contribute to the obesogenic environment.”
Social health: Here is another article to support the association between overall health and social connection: Want to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier? Then Cultivate Your Social Connections (Wired)
More on smartphone use and health: A break from your smartphone can reboot your mood. Here's how long you need (NPR)
A research study shows that 91% of participants felt better after blocking the internet from their phone for two weeks, which helped them stop bad habits of reflexively scrolling on their phone. "What we found was that people had better mental health, better subjective well-being and better sustained attention."
If you are looking for ways to reduce screen time, the article includes 5 helpful tips.
And last but certainly not least, a tribute to Joan Dye Gussow who passed away. I’ve had her book This Organic Life on my bookshelf for many years, and her backyard garden continues to be a source of inspiration for what I can accomplish in mine. Joan Dye Gussow, Pioneer of Eating Locally, Is Dead at 96 (NYTimes)
Recipes Ideas for the Week: Weeknight Heroes
Weeknight Hero Recipe (working) definition: So far, I think these are the essential requirements to define one of these recipes: very fast to pull together, simple ingredient list, healthy, and everyone loves it (kids included!).
Recipe: Turmeric-Black Pepper Chicken With Asparagus (NYTimes Cooking, gifted link)
I’m already looking forward to making this Turmeric-Black Pepper Chicken With Asparagus for dinner tonight.
Modifications and tips: I use less honey, but only because I typically like less sweet in savory dishes. This is delicious served over short-grain brown rice.
Recipe: Italian Wedding Soup With Turkey Meatballs (NYTimes Cooking, gifted link)
There are many versions of Italian Wedding Soup out there. This is a popular recipe to make your own.
Modifications and tips: Add a can of white beans to give a little more body to the soup. If you think you will have leftovers, cook the orzo separately and then add in what you need before serving. Baby spinach is delicious and you can just toss handfuls in. I think smaller meatballs work best for this.
Recipe: Sweet Potato Tacos (Smitten Kitchen)
Non-fussy tacos could probably be the Weeknight Hero Recipe mascot. There are endless ways to make a quick meal if you have just a few ingredients on hand and some tortillas. This spin on a vegetarian taco couldn’t be easier to assemble or more satisfying.
Modifications and tips: This recipe’s combination of ingredients works really well on corn tortillas. They provide a nice flavor contrast and boosts the nutrition a bit. Try to find low-sodium refried beans. The sliced avocado is a key ingredient. A little bit of roasted tomatillo salsa drizzled on top pulls it all together.
And for all who celebrate, Pi Day and National Nutrition Month
March 14th is Pi Day! Celebrate math and intellectual curiosity with some delicious pie or perhaps a slice of (pizza!) pie. And speaking of “Days,” March 12th is National Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day. A shoutout to all of my colleagues working hard in this field to provide education, support and expert information with lots of heart and wit!
March is National Nutrition Month and the theme this year is “Food Connects Us,” a concept that permeates everything I work on professionally, and something I find great joy in. As a reader of this newsletter, you know that sharing time in the kitchen, and talking about food and recipes with family and friends, is a great way to stay healthy and happy. Thank you for reading this newsletter, and for supporting Thoughtful Food Nutrition!