A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found a three-fold increase in metabolic syndrome in children eating the least amount of dietary fiber when compared to the group eating the most. There were no differences when consumption of saturated fat or cholesterol was analyzed however.

The researchers recommend focusing on increasing fiber in the diet, and not worrying so much about finding low-fat foods. That does not mean teens should fill their diets with fat-filled foods, but it does mean seeking out nutrient-dense foods high in fiber.

Most low-fat foods today are those processed foods that have been filled with sugar to make up for lack of taste that comes with low-fat options. Replacing fat with sugar in foods is what has contributed to the current obesity and diabetes epidemic this country now faces. Up to 30 percent of teen’s dietary intake comes from beverages and sugary snacks.

But change can be tough. Joseph Carlson, the lead researcher, stated, “The trick is getting people into the groove finding the foods that they enjoy and that are convenient.”

The statistics are screaming at us from many different sources. Our diets and lifestyle have to change in order for us to see significant health improvements. This begins in childhood. ReNew Life founder Brenda Watson recommends that adults consume at least 35 grams of fiber daily. For children and teens, we recommend adding 5 grams to their age. So a 13-year-old should eat 18 grams of fiber daily. How can you add fiber back into your diet, and the diet of your family? For more information, visit ReNew Life’s fiber supplements page.

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Have you heard about enzyme supplements and wonder if you need one? Chances are you might—especially if you eat a lot of cooked and heavily processed foods. Without the natural enzymes obtained from raw, whole foods, the body has a hard time breaking down the food you eat and absorbing its nutrients. As a result, undigested or partially digested food in the intestines can ferment and cause gas, bloating, heartburn, indigestion and other problems. The following quiz will help you determine if you may benefit from adding a natural digestive enzyme supplement to your diet. Put a 1 next to each question if the answer is Yes, 0 for No.

1. Do you experience stomach pain after eating a high-protein meal?

2. Are you excessively tired or fatigued after eating a high-protein meal?

3. Do you have thin, fine or brittle hair?

4. Do you have white lines or ridges in your nail beds?

5. Are you intolerant to cold temperatures or have a sensation of always being cold?

6. Do you have low muscle mass? 

7. Do you have occasional swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or knees?

8. Do you have high blood pressure?

9. Do you have skin issues such as dermatitis?

10. Do you have irritability or anxiety?

11. Do you heal slowly from wounds?

12. Do you have frequent abdominal gas, bloating or flatulence?

13. Do you have frequent belching?

14. Do you have abdominal discomfort or bloating after eating starches, vegetables, beans or grains?

15. Do you commonly have diarrhea?

16. Do you have dry skin?

17. Do you have brittle fingernails?

18. Do you suffer from occasional or mild depression?

19. Do you have greasy or oily stool?

20. Are you frequently constipated?

21. Do you have dandruff or an itchy scalp?

22. Do you have problems concentrating at work or school?

23. Do you have dry mouth or excessive thirst?

24. Do you have frequent urination?

25. Do you crave fatty foods?

OVERALL SCORE: If you scored 13 or more, you may benefit from a quality digestive enzyme supplement. Look for a formula with high amounts of Protease, Amylase, Lipase and Cellulase.

BREAKDOWN SCORE:

• A score of 5 or more for Questions 1 to 11 indicates possible difficulty with the digestion of proteins. Look for an enzyme supplement with a high amount of PROTEASE.
• A score of 3 or more for Questions 12 to 15 indicates possible difficulty with the digestion of carbohydrates, starches and fiber. Look for an enzyme supplement with a high amount of AMYLASE and CELLULASE.
• A score of 5 or more for Questions 16 to 25 indicates possible difficulty with the digestion of fat. Look for an enzyme supplement with a high amount of LIPASE.

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