Latest news with #SamanthaCassetty
Time of India
03-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Eat watermelon daily? Here's what it really does to your body
Watermelon is juicy, refreshing, and full of nutrients but is it too good to be true? A lot of people are trying to eat only watermelon for days because of the "watermelon detox" trend that went viral on social media. But is this really safe and useful? Experts talk about how watermelon affects your body every day. Experts say that extreme "watermelon-only" detoxes are not a good idea. Eating it alone is not good for you because it doesn't give your body the protein and healthy fats it needs. Is the watermelon detox trend actually healthy? There is no denying that watermelon is a tasty and hydrating fruit. Recently, some social media users have gone too far with that idea, transforming it into a "diet" or "detox." According to dietitian and Sugar Shock co-author Samantha Cassetty, RD, the watermelon diet is a fad that appeared to start gaining traction on social media in 2022 and is not a formal diet plan. It's unclear where the diet came from, and there doesn't seem to be a formal "plan" to follow. Nonetheless, it is frequently presented as a "detox" or cleanse in which participants consume only watermelon for a predetermined period of time. The length of time varies; some TikTokers report eating watermelon nonstop for three days, while others say they have done so for at least 30 days, as per a report by Women's Health. Live Events The watermelon diet is popular because of its detoxifying properties, but the notion that it purges your system isn't true. According to Cassetty, "the goal is to eliminate toxins and begin weight loss without feeling overly hungry, but you don't need to eat a certain kind of food to detox the body." "Your kidney and liver naturally remove toxins from your body on a daily basis because that's how it's designed," she says. ALSO READ: Water alone won't cut it, experts share smart tips to stay truly hydrated all day Can you lose weight by eating watermelon every day? A watermelon diet, however, is not a long-term weight loss strategy; rather, it is a temporary fix. Your weight may change if you only eat watermelon, but it will return once you start eating other foods. While watermelon might help with weight loss in the short term, it shouldn't be the only food consumed. Concentrating on just one thing can cause the body to lose important proteins and healthy fats, which are necessary nutrients. What are the real health benefits of watermelon? There are many health benefits of watermelon, as per the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). • High in vitamins and antioxidants, watermelon is a nutrient-dense food. • Watermelon's vitamins A, C, and B6 support the immune system and eyesight. • Watermelon's lycopene has been connected to a lower risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Watermelon's low calorie content makes it a good snack for weight loss, and its amino acids can lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance. • Eating watermelon every day can lower body weight and BMI. • Because of its low cholesterol, saturated fat, and sodium content, regular consumption can help with weight loss. FAQs Is it safe to eat only watermelon for weight loss? While watermelon is nutritious and low in calories, eating it exclusively is not sustainable or balanced. You will miss out on essential nutrients such as protein and healthy fats. Does watermelon actually detox the body? Not quite. Your body naturally detoxifies itself via the liver and kidneys. Watermelon improves hydration and health, but it does not "cleanse" your system on its own.
Economic Times
03-07-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Eat watermelon daily? Here's what it really does to your body
Is the watermelon detox trend actually healthy? Live Events Can you lose weight by eating watermelon every day? What are the real health benefits of watermelon? FAQs (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Watermelon is juicy, refreshing, and full of nutrients but is it too good to be true? A lot of people are trying to eat only watermelon for days because of the "watermelon detox" trend that went viral on social media. But is this really safe and useful? Experts talk about how watermelon affects your body every say that extreme "watermelon-only" detoxes are not a good idea. Eating it alone is not good for you because it doesn't give your body the protein and healthy fats it is no denying that watermelon is a tasty and hydrating fruit. Recently, some social media users have gone too far with that idea, transforming it into a "diet" or "detox."According to dietitian and Sugar Shock co-author Samantha Cassetty, RD, the watermelon diet is a fad that appeared to start gaining traction on social media in 2022 and is not a formal diet plan. It's unclear where the diet came from, and there doesn't seem to be a formal "plan" to it is frequently presented as a "detox" or cleanse in which participants consume only watermelon for a predetermined period of time. The length of time varies; some TikTokers report eating watermelon nonstop for three days, while others say they have done so for at least 30 days, as per a report by Women's watermelon diet is popular because of its detoxifying properties, but the notion that it purges your system isn't to Cassetty, "the goal is to eliminate toxins and begin weight loss without feeling overly hungry, but you don't need to eat a certain kind of food to detox the body." "Your kidney and liver naturally remove toxins from your body on a daily basis because that's how it's designed," she says.A watermelon diet, however, is not a long-term weight loss strategy; rather, it is a temporary fix. Your weight may change if you only eat watermelon, but it will return once you start eating other watermelon might help with weight loss in the short term, it shouldn't be the only food consumed. Concentrating on just one thing can cause the body to lose important proteins and healthy fats, which are necessary are many health benefits of watermelon, as per the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).• High in vitamins and antioxidants, watermelon is a nutrient-dense food.• Watermelon's vitamins A, C, and B6 support the immune system and eyesight.• Watermelon's lycopene has been connected to a lower risk of heart disease and some types of low calorie content makes it a good snack for weight loss, and its amino acids can lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance.• Eating watermelon every day can lower body weight and BMI.• Because of its low cholesterol, saturated fat, and sodium content, regular consumption can help with weight watermelon is nutritious and low in calories, eating it exclusively is not sustainable or balanced. You will miss out on essential nutrients such as protein and healthy quite. Your body naturally detoxifies itself via the liver and kidneys. Watermelon improves hydration and health, but it does not "cleanse" your system on its own.
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
This Is Exactly What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Watermelon Every Day
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Watermelon is delicious and hydrating, and that's a fact. And some social media users took that notion a little too far recently, turning it into a "diet" or a "detox." The watermelon diet is a phenomenon that seemed to first gain popularity in 2022 on social media and is not an official diet plan, says Samantha Cassetty, RD, a dietitian and co-author of Sugar Shock. The origins of the diet are somewhat unknown and it appears there is no official 'plan' to follow. However, it is often framed as a cleanse or 'detox' in which users eat only watermelon for a set amount of time. Duration varies—some TikTokers eat watermelon consecutively for three days in a row, while others claim to have followed the routine for 30 days or more. (Yikes!) People are drawn to the watermelon diet's detox-like effect, however, the idea that it cleanses your system, so to speak, isn't accurate. 'The idea is to clear toxins and kickstart weight loss without feeling too hungry, [but] you don't need to consume a type of food to detox the body,' says Cassetty. 'Your body is designed to eliminate toxins on [its] own—that's what your kidney and liver do for you every day naturally,' she points out. Again, there is no scientific evidence to support a watermelon cleanse. That said, watermelon itself is a nutritious food packed with vitamins and antioxidants, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It contains vitamin A, which can help your vision and immune system, per a study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine—along with vitamin C and vitamin B6, which have similar immune-boosting benefits. Watermelon also contains lycopene, which has been linked to decreases in heart disease and certain cancers, per the USDA. Additionally, the amino acids in watermelon may help reduce blood pressure and support exercise performance, according to a recent study. Watermelon is a low-calorie fruit that's made of approximately 90 percent water, per the USDA—so if you're trying to stay hydrated and achieve a calorie deficit, it might be a helpful snack for weight loss. Daily watermelon consumption may help reduce body weight and body mass index (BMI), per a study published in Nutrients, and eating it regularly may help you lose weight due to its low sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol, according to a recent study. If you only eat watermelon (which, again, is mostly water), you'll likely see weight changes. However, a watermelon diet is a short-term solution and not a sustainable weight loss practice. 'You will [likely] lose water weight, but once you start eating other foods, all your weight will come back,' says Keri Gans, RD, author of The Small Change Diet. The bottom line? Watermelon may work temporarily, but it shouldn't be the only thing you're consuming for weight loss. 'Even though watermelon is a healthy food, it is not healthy to exist on watermelon alone—and that would be the same for any single food, whether it's cake or kale,' Cassetty says. By only focusing on one item, you're eliminating vital proteins and healthy fats, which are essential nutrients for the body. Get the Plan Get the Plan Get the Plan Get the Plan Get the Plan Get the Plan You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Dietitians Share the Truth About the Viral ‘Cortisol Cocktail'
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." The so-called Cortisol Cocktail is all over TikTok right now. Fans swear it will help lower levels of the stress hormone in the body. Experts explain if it really has an effect on your stress levels. You're stressed and we get it. It's hard not to feel frazzled with everything you're dealing with daily. But if you've already made moves to de-stress in your life and still feel like you're not getting anywhere, TikTok has a solution for you. It's called the Cortisol Cocktail, and people claim it really works to lower cortisol levels. But what does the science say? The name is a hat-tip to cortisol, the hormone produced by the adrenal glands (a pair of triangle-shaped glands on top of each kidney) that's usually produced in your body in response to stress. While some cortisol production is normal and even helpful, chronic exposure to the hormone raises the risk of weight gain, muscle weakness, and high blood sugar, among other things, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Meet the experts: Samantha Cassetty, M.S., R.D., is a plant-forward nutrition and wellness expert and co-author of Sugar Shock; Mir Ai, M.D.., is medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA; Julie Upton, M.S., R.D., is a San Francisco Bay Area-based registered dietitian and co-author of Energy to Burn: The Ultimate Food and Nutrition Guide to Fuel Your Active Life; Alissa Lupu, R.D., a nutritionist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center But can a drink or food help reduce cortisol levels? Here's what dietitians and a doctor want you to keep in mind. There are a bunch of videos on TikTok promoting the Cortisol Cocktail, and—heads up—some have tie-ins with coconut water companies. But they all make similar claims that this drink will help lower levels of cortisol in your body, boost your energy, ease tension, and even balance your hormones (which, also seems to be a talking point on social media these days). 'This is useful to drink until you start to feel better,' wrote one creator under a video. 'This drink provides everything your adrenal need[s] to start working.' A fellow Cortisol Cocktail fan even credited the drink with helping her to lose 54 pounds. She also noted that she has 'more energy' now than before she had kids. Every Cortisol Cocktail recipe is slightly different, but it usually involves a mix of coconut water, fresh lemon or orange juice, magnesium powder, a little salt, and sparkling water. There are a lot of promises surrounding the Cortisol Cocktail. Experts say there's some truth behind these claims, although they're overblown. 'Some ingredients in the so-called Cortisol Cocktail, like magnesium and electrolytes, do play a role in how our bodies manage stress,' says Samantha Cassetty, M.D., R.D., is a plant-forward nutrition and wellness expert and co-author of Sugar Shock. She points out that magnesium is known as a 'relaxation mineral' because it helps to regulate the nervous system and may even help blunt the effects of stress. 'Electrolytes from coconut water, orange juice, and salt can support hydration, which is important for overall energy and mood,' Cassetty says. 'However, no drink alone can significantly lower cortisol levels. These nutrients may help your body feel more balanced, but they're not a magic bullet.' Julie Upton, M.S., R.D., a San Francisco Bay Area-based registered dietitian and co-author of Energy to Burn: The Ultimate Food and Nutrition Guide to Fuel Your Active Life, agrees. 'There are several studies that suggest magnesium may help with the control of cortisol levels, but there are no randomized controlled trials that show a cause and effect,' she says. Upton also says that there's 'more hype than true help' with the Cortisol Cocktail controlling cortisol levels. 'Coconut water has a health halo and naturally has magnesium, so that is likely why these cocktails have coconut water,' she says. As for those weight loss claims, having this drink alone is unlikely to help you lose a significant amount of weight, says Mir Ali, M.D., is medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA. 'This drink might be helpful to some people—if you're drinking this, it might fill up your stomach so you eat less,' he says. 'But 90% of weight loss is diet. If patients are careful with what they eat, they will be able to lose weight.' Dr. Ali points out that there's no research to suggest this drink will help lower cortisol levels. 'Some of these ingredients may have mild anti-inflammatory effects, but I haven't seen any convincing evidence that it will lead to significant results based on these ingredients,' he says. While potential perks of the Cortisol Cocktail aren't clear, experts agree that this is a safe drink to have. 'Generally, this type of homemade electrolyte drink is harmless for most people, especially when used occasionally to support hydration or replenishment,' Cassetty says. 'But it's important to understand that cortisol is a hormone—not something you can just 'flush out' with a drink.' Magnesium is an important and beneficial mineral, but Cassetty notes that some people may end up getting diarrhea from it. 'The juice is also high in sugar, and so if blood sugar management is an issue, juices should be avoided,' says Alissa Lupu, R.D., a nutritionist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 'If sodium is restricted for cardiovascular concerns, again, this drink should be avoided.' Cassetty warns that the drink 'may provide a false sense of security,' keeping people from actually addressing the root cause of their stress or exhaustion. One more thing to consider, per Cassetty: Many Americans have too much sodium, and adding salt to drinks without a medical reason, like heavy sweating from exercise or heat, could push that sodium intake even higher. If you're still interested in giving it a try (though, again, there isn't much scientific evidence to support the claims around the drink), every recipe for the Cortisol Cocktail is slightly different, but most follow this general guide: 1 cup coconut water Juice from ½ lemon ¼ cup orange juice 1 teaspoon of magnesium powder ¼ teaspoon salt Sparkling water on top If you're struggling with symptoms of chronically high cortisol, like unexplained weight gain, fatigue, and muscle weakness, it's time to check in with a doctor. It's possible that this is due to an underlying health condition, and it's important to get a proper medical evaluation to find out, Dr. Ali says. But if your concerns are more about feeling burned out, Cassetty recommends working on your stress management toolbox. 'That might include consistent sleep, regular movement, mindfulness or breathing exercises, and nourishing meals throughout the day,' she says. 'While a drink like this may help you feel more supported, long-term cortisol balance comes from how you manage the stress itself—not just how you hydrate.' Dietary supplements are products intended to supplement the diet. They are not medicines and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure diseases. Be cautious about taking dietary supplements if you are pregnant or nursing. Also, be careful about giving supplements to a child, unless recommended by their healthcare provider. You Might Also Like Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss? Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50
Yahoo
15-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
6 Foods You Should Eat More of After 60, According to Dietitians
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelli McGrane, M.S., RDDiet plays an important role in maintaining bone, heart, eye and brain health as you age. After age 60, prioritize nuts, legumes, leafy greens, cranberries and prunes. Socializing, consistent sleep and staying physically and mentally active are key for healthy your 60s is a milestone worth celebrating. And while this decade can be filled with travel and more time spent with family, you may also experience some unexpected changes that aren't quite as welcoming. To keep your energy levels up, mood stable and health on track year after year, it's important to be intentional about the food on your plate. Certain foods can go a long way in supporting your body as it ages, whether it's by boosting brain health, strengthening bones or protecting your heart. According to dietitians, adding more of these six nutrient-packed foods to your routine can help you feel your best and stay active and energized throughout your golden years. One of the most powerful foods for longevity is one that you don't actually need a lot of to see big benefits. 'Walnuts provide plant-based omega-3s, antioxidants and polyphenols, all of which play a role in brain and heart health as we age,' says Samantha Cassetty, MS, RD, partner with California Walnuts. Using data from the Nurses' Health Study, researchers found that women who ate at least two servings or walnuts per week in their late 50s and early 60s were more likely to experience healthy aging, which includes being free from chronic disease, memory problems, physical disability and mental health issues after age 65 compared to those who did not eat walnuts regularly. Aim to enjoy 2 ounces of walnuts weekly, either on their own or incorporated into recipes. Try adding these crunchy nuts to salads, overnight oats, homemade snack bars and more. Maintaining bone density is critical for maintaining independence and overall quality of life as we age. Approximately 10 million adults over age 65 have osteoporosis, and while physical activity and strength training help, adding legumes to your diet can also support bone health. 'Legumes are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, supporting muscle maintenance, gut health and reduced inflammation,' says Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDCES. Legumes include beans, lentils, peas and peanuts. While all legumes can support strong bones, chickpeas may be particularly beneficial. The isoflavones and polyphenols in chickpeas may help prevent osteoporosis by supporting bone metabolism and reducing inflammation. Palinski-Wade explains that these mechanisms are especially helpful and relevant for women post-menopause, who are most at risk for bone loss. 'A handful of pistachios daily can help to improve intake of fiber and key nutrients, including healthy fats, protein and antioxidants, like lutein, which helps protect vision and supports overall health with age,' says Palinksi-Wade, a consultant for American Pistachio Growers. Additionally, one small study found that eating 2 ounces of pistachios daily for 4 months reduced oxidative damage and increased the gene expression of specific genes that may support the reversal of certain metabolic conditions that are more common with age, including insulin resistance. 'Plus, as a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, pistachios can help to boost satiety with only 160 calories per serving, which can be beneficial when working towards maintaining a healthy body weight,' adds Palinski-Wade. 'Leafy greens like spinach, kale and collard greens are rich in vitamin K and folate, which help support brain health and may slow age-related cognitive decline,' says Alexandria Hardy RDN LDN. Diets high in dark leafy greens have been associated with improved memory and overall cognitive function in older adults and may even help slow cognitive decline. 'These vegetables are rich in brain-supportive nutrients like phylloquinone, beta-carotene and vitamin E, which are thought to support learning and memory,' says Cassetty. Over 60% of older adults in the United States do not regularly eat dark leafy vegetables. Certain medications, like blood thinners, require consistent intake of vitamin K, which is found in greens like spinach and kale. However, this doesn't mean you need to avoid these vegetables completely. If you take blood thinners, or another medication that interacts with vitamin K, talk with a healthcare professional about how to safely incorporate leafy greens in your diet. For older adults with difficulties chewing, Hardy recommends steaming, sautéing or pureeing greens rather than enjoying them raw. Cranberries are rich in anthocyanins and proanthocyanins—antioxiants that support numerous aspects of health, from your brain to your urinary tract. Anthocyanins in cranberries are responsible for their vibrant red color and play a key role in protecting and supporting brain cells. 'Thanks to their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, anthocyanins are being studied for their potential role in reducing the risk of brain disorders like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease,' says Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD. Cranberries can also be helpful for preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). While both men and women can experience UTIs, it's estimated that over 10% of women over age 65 and 30% of women 85 years and older have a UTI at least once a year. 'There are compounds in cranberries called proanthocyanidins (PACs), which have been shown to maintain urinary tract health,' says Manaker. These compounds help prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, which can help decrease infection rates. Bone loss is one of the most common and dangerous side effects of aging. Luckily, eating to protect and maintain bone health can be both delicious and simple. 'Prunes contain bioactive compounds that may help blunt bone loss, so they're another tool in your toolkit to support healthy aging,' says Cassetty. In one study, postmenopausal women who ate 50 grams, or approximately 5–6 prunes, per day had reduced rates of total hip bone mineral density loss over 6 to 12 months, whereas women who did not eat prunes experienced increased fracture risk scores at 6 months. Also noteworthy, this study had a 90% compliance rate, proving just how easy and simple it is to add prunes to your diet. The delicious sweet taste and jelly-like texture make them a welcome addition to salads, toast and smoothies—or just to enjoy by the handful. Regularly backed up? The high fiber content of prunes can also help ease constipation to make bathroom visits smoother (literally). Just be sure to drink more water to minimize side effects associated with increased fiber intake, like gas and bloating. What you put on your plate plays a key role in healthy aging, but it's far from the only factor. The following strategies can help you feel your best now and support your health in the years to come. Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Prioritize a consistent sleep and wake routine, even on days when you don't have anywhere to be, encourages Palinski-Wade. Regular sleep may be more important than duration, with some studies showing that people getting consistent sleep have a 20 to 48% lower risk of death from any cause than those with irregular sleep patterns. Stay Active: Keep your body moving—and make it enjoyable! 'Find something you love, whether it's dancing, walking, gardening or yoga, and make it a regular part of your routine,' says Manaker. Prioritize Connection: Research suggests that loneliness and social isolation have a mortality risk similar to smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, physical inactivity and obesity. Make it a priority to stay connected with family and friends and consider joining a club or attending a fitness class once a week. Keep Your Mind Active: Staying mentally engaged through learning, puzzles, strategic games and other activities can support memory and cognition as you age. Researchers found that people under 75 who regularly participated in cognitively stimulating tasks and activities saw the greatest increases in cognitive function and memory. Aging well doesn't have to mean overhauling your entire diet and lifestyle. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods, engaging in joyful movement and maintaining a consistent routine can help you feel your best well into your 60s, 70s and beyond. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
