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Health foods
Q: Can diet fix polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
MB, Malvern, Vic
A: PCOS can be well managed through a healthy lifestyle and an appropriate eating plan, though this won't fix the condition. The dietary recommendations for women with PCOS are high-fibre, low-GI, carbohydrate-rich foods and a moderately higher intake of lean, protein-rich foods. If overweight, losing five per cent of your body weight can make a significant difference to the symptoms and improve health.
Carb-o-rama
Q: What's the healthier option: cous cous, rice or pasta?
JR, Cottesloe, WA
A: All these grains are nutritionally similar, being low in saturated fat and high in carbohydrates.
Wholegrain varieties of all these foods provide more fibre and are higher in vitamins and minerals so are a better choice than white or plain varieties. Brown rice is higher in kilojoules (997kJ in one cooked cup) than wholemeal pasta (810kJ) or couscous (735kJ), and wholemeal pasta is the highest in fibre, providing a third of your day's needs in one cooked cup.
She's a plant eater
Q: How can I go vegan safely? Should I watch my B12 levels?
KB, Dee Why, NSW
A: Vegans need to watch their B12 levels, as it's only found in foods of animal origin. Vitamin B12 plays a key role in brain and nervous system function, as well as the formation of blood. Deficiency in B12 can cause fatigue, depression and poor memory. To ensure you're getting enough, include soy products fortified with B12 or take a supplement. It can also be harder to get sufficient calcium, iron, zinc and omega-3s, so a consultation with a dietitian can be beneficial.
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