Study: Stigmatizing Obesity Campaigns Not More Effective than Others

Posted on by
Reply

hw-drink02-300x250The health problems stemming from obesity have inspired campaigns nationwide, all trying to encourage the two-thirds of Americans who are overweight or obese to achieve a healthy weight, which would help reduce the risk of seven cancers.

But getting people to modify eating and activity behaviors can be tricky.

Last week, one of the first studies to systematically look at what kind of messaging works best found that campaigns recognized for stigmatizing or blaming obese people are perceived as no more effective than more positive or neutral campaigns. In fact, the advice of negative campaigns was deemed to be less achievable.

The study was published online in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Continue reading →

Making those Tempting Office Treats Healthy

Posted on by
Reply

June marks the 5th annual National Employee Wellness month, so this is the perfect time to start thinking about how you can make your workplace healthier. Have you found that there always seem to be tempting treats in the office? Maybe a cocanstockphoto2003820worker baked cookies to share, there’s that jar of chocolates at the front desk, or it’s hard to turn down the free pizza your boss ordered.

Whatever it may be, the workplace often seems to be filled with foods that are high in sugar, fat and calories – which can lead to weight gain and ultimately increase your risk for developing cancer. The good news is that there are things you can do to make your workplace healthier and limit the temptations.

1. Keep in mind the saying: out of sight, out of mind. You will be less tempted to grab that piece of candy if you keep it out of sight. Don’t keep sweets at your desk, and if your office keeps a candy jar out for everyone, suggest filling it with something you’ll be less tempted to overeat (such as breath mints).

2. If you usually get cake or other sweets for events such as staff birthdays, try suggesting a healthier “treat”. For example, the office could order a nice flower arrangement to add a little cheer on the birthday employee’s desk. Continue reading →

Savory Salmon Kebabs for Dad

Posted on by
Reply

salmon-kebab croppedMake Dad a dish that’s hearty and heart-healthy for Father’s Day using firm-fleshed salmon, a top source of healthy omega-3 fats: our Health-e-Recipe for Salmon and Vegetable Oven Kebabs.

Deliciously paired with chunks of tomatoes, mushrooms, green pepper and yellow squash on skewers, these kebabs are both colorful and cancer-preventive. First, whip up the easy Mediterranean-style marinade of lemon juice, garlic and olive oil with a dash of Italian seasoning and freshly ground pepper. Coat the fish and veggies in it and marinate in the refrigerator, covered, for 30 minutes.

Thread the food onto skewers, discard the marinade and broil in the oven just 5-8 minutes. This quick cooking method keeps the kitchen from getting too hot and results in delectably browned, tasty morsels of fish and vegetables. It’ll be a healthy hit that can satisfy Dad and the rest of your family with a traditional Mediterranean fisherman’s dish. Serve it with a tossed mixed salad with vinaigrette dressing and brown rice pilaf or crusty whole-wheat bread.

For more excellent healthy recipes, visit the AICR Test Kitchen. Subscribe to our weekly Health-e-Recipes.