Eating foods rich in antioxidants is one part of a diet and exercise program that protects against chronic diseases, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy. A recently published study bears out this claim.

"Try to add more fresh fruit, juice and a variety of vegetables in your diet to improve your health and reduce heart disease risks," urges LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy. The USDA Food Guide Pyramid recommends 2-3 servings of fruits and 3-4 servings of vegetables daily.

A new eating plan can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by lowering blood pressure. DASH - Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension - is rich in low-fat dairy foods, fruits and vegetables.

Dietary fat is important in determining cardiovascular health and risk of heart disease development. Some fats actually help protect against heart disease.

Scientists are learning about the role of genetic and non-genetic factors in cardiovascular, metabolic and hormonal responses to aerobic exercise through a three-part investigation begun 12 years ago, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy.

Each year, heart disease and stroke kill more than 500,000 women. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames recommends adopting heart-health goals for women developed by the American Heart Association.

(Distributed September 2004) Half the male and one-third of the female populations will develop heart disease sometime in their lives, according to LSU Agricultural Center nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed October 2004) The health risks of consuming trans fat are so evident that by January 2006 the fat will have to be listed on food labels, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.