Cheryl Koch M.S., R.D. - If you are concerned that drinking fruit juice will lead to weight gain or tooth decay in your youngster, you may be relieved to hear about the latest research. Reasonable consumption by children of 100 percent fruit juice (instead of sugar-loaded punches and fruit "drinks") is not associated with obesity in children. In fact, researchers say that because pure juice is an excellent source of vitamins and nutrition, reasonable consumption should not be discouraged in children. ... Read more...

Cheryl Koch, M.S., R.D. - Earlier this week, a family member, who had recently undergone a physical, called asking for advice about his cholesterol levels. He specifically wanted to know how he could raise his HDL (high-density lipoprotein), which was a bit lower than desirable. While my relative's request seems basic, it underscores for me just how confused consumers still are by the information they get about how to manage their cholesterol levels.  Let's start at the beginning. ... Read more...

Cheryl Koch, M.S., R.D. - If you are committed to selecting healthier foods at the grocery store, you may have noticed that they sometimes cost a little more. As a dietitian counseling patients on good nutrition, I try to help clients stretch their dollars at the grocery store and yet still be able to buy some of the healthier items on the shelves. ... Read more...

Cheryl Koch, M.S., R.D. - Every time I turn on the TV or log onto the Internet lately, there's another news story about food recalls or food safety risks. Now that summer is here, it becomes even more important to remember and prevent the health risks that accompany food preparation during warmer weather. ... Read more...

Cheryl Koch, M.S., R.D. - It seems that not a day goes by when my mail isn't filled with magazines and fliers advertising new ways to improve my health and overall nutrition. In fact, the American public is being constantly bombarded with health information in the media. While we can certainly trust some sources to provide us with sound health and nutrition advice, we need to be cautious because not everything you read or hear in the media is based on fact. ... Read more...