Find out what’s trending this week in the world of health and fitness, including non-toxic cleaners, gluten-free quinoa, vitamin B12 and the harmful effects of hookah.
Hot:
Toxin-free cleaners: Stop cleaning your house with icky chemicals! New at Vitacost.com, Method natural cleaners can help you achieve that squeaky clean shine, without exposing your family to hazardous ingredients. Learn more about Method in this week’s Health Flash video.
Quinoa: Tired of having rice night after night? Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is another gluten-free side dish that’s gaining popularity. It’s rich in filling fiber, protein, amino acids, B-vitamins and essential minerals (such as iron, magnesium and copper) and cooks up with a satisfyingly fluffy texture.
Vitamin B12: Did you know that 15% of the American population may be deficient in vitamin B12? This nutrient is important for nervous system function, heart health and concentration. Dietary sources include poultry, fish, dairy products and beef – which is why those on a plant-based diet should be sure to consume B12 from fortified foods or supplements.
Not:
Hookah: New research reveals that hookah smoke may be just as dangerous as cigarette smoke when it comes to lung health. Those who smoked hookah were as likely as cigarette smokers to experience respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and tightness. Meanwhile, those who abstained from smoking both hookah and cigarettes reported far fewer instances of respiratory distress.