The Carbohydrate Hypothesis

No Bread Today
Originally uploaded by Mr. Guybrarian

Today I finished the second part of Gary Taubes' Good Calories, Bad Calories and I must say that this book continued to hurt my head. As I warned before, the discussion is full of dense scientific research and history. On top of that, it astounds me how much good science has been ignored or disregarded because it doesn't conform to the low-fat mantra.

Essentially, the carbohydrate hypothesis states that it is carbohydrates that cause the diseases of civilization -- obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some forms of cancer. Refined carbs, like polished rice, white flour and white sugar, were pointed out as some of the more dangerous ingredients but high-fructose corn syrup also made the list.

In this hypothesis, it is the quality of the calories consumed that regulates weight, and the quantity--more calories consumed than expended--is a second phenomenon

In summary, part one of the book was "this is why everything you know is wrong" and part two was "this is why everything you don't know is right." The third part of the book promises to discuss weight loss and I'm hoping some sort of recommendations will be made there. There is a lot of information presented for the author not to provide a summary and conclusion.

Broccoli Prevents Aggressive Prostate Cancer

Broccoli
Originally uploaded by Яick Harris

I'm not quite old enough yet to have to go see a proctologist and have my prostate checked for cancer, but I'm not looking forward to it. I certainly hope when I finally end up having to go, everything turns up normal and I don't have to see that doctor again for a long time. Thankfully, my broccoli-laden diet seems to be one way I can help make sure that check-up goes well.

A study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicates that men who ate a weekly serving of broccoli cut their risk for aggressive prostate cancer by 45%. The research was conducted by completing a food survey for 1,300 men who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Spinach consumption also seemed to be associated with a reduced risk but the findings were less significant.

Other cancer experts aren't convinced that broccoli is a magic bullet, but instead just part of a healthier diet that would lead to a healthier body. Chris Hiley, head of policy and research at The Prostate Cancer Charity commented on the new study.

Whilst waiting for definitive evidence it's clear that men should be eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.