As food fads go, the low-carbohydrate phenomenon was remarkably short-lived. Today, consumers appear to have lost interest in low-carb foods and are concentrating on whole grains, thanks in part to the 2005 USDA Dietary Guidelines and MyPyramid, with their emphasis on at least three daily servings of whole grains. Consumers are getting the message that it is better to be “carbohydrate selective” than “carbo-phobic.” Whole grain food sales have increased dramatically in recent years—by more than 18% from 2004 to 2005 compared with less than 1% from 2000 to 2004.

    To a farmer, “organic” means healthy soil and to consumers it means no pesticides. Technically and legally however, “organic” means different things related to different foods and products.

After a long winter of dutifully fulfilling your fruit intake with apples, bananas and oranges, summer berries are a long-awaited treat. During the warmer months, when berries are in season, you can enjoy all the benefits these tiny fruits have to offer – and you may be surprised to learn how much more they have to offer than sweet delicious flavor.

Vegetarians may be lacking certain nutrients due to a somewhat restricted diets, especially vegans. It may be helpful to know what foods are important to include for specfic vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

Research has found that 30-40% adults in this country take some kind of vitamin supplement and many also turn to pills on a regular basis for additional minerals, fiber, and fish oil. Are these supplements really necessary and beneficial and if so, are they a good idea for everyone?