Diet Questions: Organic Vs Regular & Sugar Vs Artificial Sweeteners

Kathie Lee & Hoda: Answers To Diet Questions

Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb talked with Madelyn Fernstrom, Today Show‘s Diet and Nutrition Editor, as she answered questions on all the confusing and controversial topics of diet and nutrition and overall health, including organic Vs conventional grown fruit, food allergies and cutting sugar.

Kathie Lee & Hoda: Organic Vs Regular Fruits and Veggies

Organic has been in the news lately. Are there still health benefits to eating organic?

Madelyn said this is something that may be common sense. Nutrients and vitamin-wise they are both equivalent, whether organic or conventionally grown. She said pesticides can get into the conventionally grown fruit, which people are worried about. She said you can get the same nutrients and vitamins from both, but watch out on the thinner skinned fruit and veggies.

Diet Questions: Food Allergies

Are we more susceptible to food allergies as we get older or not?

Madelyn said we are susceptible to a lot of things as we get older, especially digestive issues. She said some things pop up as we get older, like lactose intolerance. It is not an allergy to milk, but it is an inability to digest milk and dairy products.

Kathie Lee & Hoda: When To Take Your Vitamins

I am over 50. Should I take all my vitamins at once in the morning or should I take them throughout the day?

Madelyn said there is all this talk about something magical with when you take your vitamins. She said pick one multi-vitamin and take it when you remember. It is not going to work unless you take it and it is better to take it with food.

Diet Questions: Sugar Vs Artificial Sweeteners

We are trying to cut sugars out of our diet. Is it really safe to use artificial sweeteners?

Madelyn said low-calorie sweeteners are safe. Use them or don’t use them. Sugar is 15 calories per teaspoon, which is fine in moderation.