Stir it up

BY NANCY H. CROSBY

Fresh, brightly colored produce and nuts contain abundant antioxidants. A study by the National Cancer Institute confirms that diets rich in antioxidants from fresh fruits and vegetables lower the risk of infections, cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes and some types of cancers.

Two cups of fresh fruits and two cups of vegetables should be included in a 2,000-calorie diet daily. Have this recipe with a fruit cup for dessert, fresh squeezed lemon in your water and nuts sprinkled on a salad. The antioxidants will be adding up!

Nancy H. Crosby, R.D., has more than 30 years’ experience counseling diabetics and others requiring therapeutic diets. She is a clinical nutrition specialist at Nephrology Centers of Augusta-Vidalia Dialysis Center.