Cocoa Bean Mulch Hastings NE

Mighty Apple, Risks of Cocoa Bean Mulch, Aging Eyes

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By Rosemary Carstens

An Apple a Day...

Q Do apples really protect against lung cancer and heart disease?

A Yes! Apples are a nutritional bonanza, and eating five or more per week has been positively associated with many health benefits, not the least of which are a reduced risk of various cancers and heart disease.

Apples are chock full of fiber, flavonoids, pectins, tannins and vitamins. This bountiful cornucopia not only lowers the risk of cancer and heart attack, but also stroke, asthma and type 2 diabetes. In addition, the nutrient-packed fruit prevents free-radical damage and improves lung function and intestinal regularity. In particular, apples contain the phytonutrient quercetin, which studies show are especially helpful in reducing lung cancer risk. Other preliminary studies suggest apples may protect against sun damage.

Scientists are continuing to investigate the apple’s chemical secrets. Recently, Chang Lee, PhD, professor of food chemistry and chairman of the Department of Food, Science and Technology at Cornell University’s New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, stated that an apple a day “not only may help reduce the risk of cancer, as previous studies have shown, but also may supply major bioactive compounds, which may play an important role in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders [such as Alzheimer’s disease].”

There is still a great deal to be discovered about the mighty apple—but so far, it comes out smelling like a rose.

A Backyard Threat to Dogs

Q I am considering using cocoa bean mulch in my garden, but I’ve read recently it can be hazardous to dogs. Is this true?

A Certainly caution is called for. According to a study by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, some dogs find cocoa bean mulch tasty—but it contains theobromine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, seizures and kidney problems in dogs. Eating a large amount of it can result in death. This mulch is a by-product of chocolate production and has become popular because it looks good, smells delectable and degrades into an organic fertilizer. However, if you have a dog, you may want to consider an alternative.

Even More Reasons to Eat Your Greens!

Q Can lutein really protect against macular degeneration? What foods are highest in this antioxidant?

A Remarkable strides have been made in determining the importance of lutein in the diet. It has been shown effective in reducing risk of age-related macular degeneration, and a recent study at the North Chicago Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center indicates that lutein supplementation actually may reverse the disease’s symptoms. Because one in eight Americans older than 60 has this previously untreatable condition, these findings are extremely promising.

While supplements are helpful, eating foods rich in lutein gives you the most bang for your health buck because it’s then combined with other important phytonutrients.

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