Lauren Au, RD

Priceless advice

June 13th, 2008

I am inspired to share with you what I have learned in my past year at Columbia University. I will save you the $50,000 in tuition, hours of studying and exams, and countless internship rotations, by writing in 3 simple tips what you need to know.

1. Take care of your heart. The leading cause of death in America is still cardiovascular disease. It is such a devastating disease because it can kill immediately and high blood pressure and high cholesterol can go undetected for years. My advice is to choose healthy fats (olive oils, almonds, and salmon), reduce your salt intake, and make more meals at home.
2. Maintain your weight. You gain 1 pound for every extra 3,500 calories you consume. You can always make more adipose (fat) cells but you can never get rid of them, only shrink them. This is why it is easier to gain weight once you have lost it. Biologically, your body is against you. It wants to conserve in periods of famine. Exercise, it’s good for you.
3. Eat local. Try your best to make sustainable food decisions. With rising agriculture and transportation costs, our food prices will continue to sky rocket. Plan your meals. Eat less meat and more vegetables and fruits.

Have questions? I can provide answers.

Lauren

Entry Filed under: Nutrition