Is A Bagel One or Two Servings?

The USDA's Food Guide Pyramid counts a bagel as two servings from the grain group. But, this is based on a three-inch plain bagel, not the hefty 4 1/2-inch deli-style version now popular. Those super-size bagels are equivalent to four Food Guide Pyramid servings or more, says Becky Gorham, a registered dietitian with the USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine.

To estimate the number of Pyramid servings provided by a bagel or other bread product, check the Nutrition Facts panel. One Pyramid serving of most bread products is roughly one ounce (28 grams) and provides about 70 calories and 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Bigger bagels also hold more high-calorie spreads and toppings. Those loaded with nuts, dried fruit, seeds, chocolate or topped with a thick slathering of cream cheese can easily tip the scales at 450 to 600 calories, which is about one-third of an inactive woman's daily caloric requirements.

- From the Kids' Nutrition Q&A, USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine

Lowering Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a naturally occurring wax-like substance that the body uses to produce hormones, bile acids that help digest fat, and vitamin D. Primarily produced in the liver, cholesterol is also an essential building block in the formation of cellular walls, or membranes.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL), is usually referred to as the "good" cholesterol because it is known to protect against coronary artery disease. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), however, is considered the "bad" cholesterol because it leads to the buildup of cholesterol and fat within an artery, called atherosclerosis. This buildup can severely hinder, or block, blood flow to the heart, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and a heart attack.

There are two basic ways to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. First, by living a heart-healthy lifestyle to achieve a healthy weight through diet and exercise and then by combining this heart-healthy lifestyle with the use of medications.

Dr. Edward K. Massin, a cardiologist at the Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, says dietary cholesterol intake is not the biggest influence on blood cholesterol levels. "In actuality," says Dr. Massin, "it is the amount of saturated fat in the diet that is the true offender.

"Eating large amounts of starchy foods raises triglycerides in the blood, which is also undesirable," says Dr. Massin. "Following a sensible diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, and one that is low in saturated fat, will help keep HDL cholesterol levels up and LDL cholesterol levels down. Remember, moderation is essential."

It is also important to take part in some kind of aerobic exercise at least three days a week for 30 minutes at a time.

For patients at high risk for heart disease, or those who have already been diagnosed with heart disease, Dr. Massin recommends supplementing a heart-healthy lifestyle with medications.

"Those on cholesterol-lowering medications should have their cholesterol, triglycerides and liver function checked by a physician on a regular basis," says Dr. Massin. "By doing so, the physician will be able to determine the effectiveness of any medications being used and adjust them accordingly."

- From Texas Heart Institute

New Device Helps Women Who Suffer From Vaginal Hernia

A new type of pessary, a device that provides internal support, might help many women suffering from a vaginal hernia lead a more comfortable life.

"Women with vaginal hernias might experience aching, pressure and discomfort in the lower back and pelvis, which can be aggravated when they cough, strain or take part in daily activities," says Dr. Paul Fine, chief of urogynecology at Baylor College of Medicine. "These hernias usually occur in women who have delivered a number of children vaginally."

The new pessary is made from plastic that can be left inside the vagina for up to 30 days. The old version was made of material that allowed vaginal secretions to get inside the pessary and, if left too long, caused hygiene problems for many women.

"It is a perfect option for women who do not want to have surgery to repair a vaginal hernia," Dr. Fine says.

It is recommended that women visit their gynecologist once a month so the pessary can be removed, cleaned, and checked for cracks. The physician will also check for irritation to vaginal tissue. Such symptoms can include vaginal bleeding, discharge, burning, and hygiene problems.

- From Baylor College of Medicine

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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