The "Picking My Favorite Article In My Reader's Digest" Story

It was an ordinary day.  Just finished reading my March/April issue of Reader's Digest.  Seems like there has never been an issue that doesn't have at least one or perhaps two stories or articles that are both interesting and helpful.  The articles don't always have to be life-changing or earth shattering, just interesting with a few new lessons to be learned.  After reading every single story (isn't that why you buy them) in the magazine, I gave my winning story to one called "The Best and Worst Diets for Your Heart."  Story was written by Leslie Finlay and features, just as the title says...the best and worst diets for your heart.  See if the stories might have an impact on you if you are in need of a healthier lifestyle.  

Best: The Mediterranean Diet:  The Mediterranean diet encourages people to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes and healthy fats.  Dr. Lepor says incorporating more sources of monounsaturated fats (found in avocado, olive oil and seeds) and polyunsaturated fats (found in walnuts, flaxseeds and fish) is a good place to start.  "We recommend using oils that are not tropical oils, but using canola or high-quality olive oil instead." he says. Fish and seafood are regulars in the Mediterranean diet, while other protein sources, like eggs, poultry and dairy, are eaten in moderation.  Red meat is eaten sparingly.  

Worst: The Keto Diet:  Because consuming a higher amount of saturated fats increases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, Dr. Lepor does not recommend the keto diet, which is a high-fat eating plan.  "People tend to say they can lose weight fast on the keto diet, and they eat foods that reduce their appetite, but they're really increasing their intake of saturated fats," he says.  Unfortunately, in the U.S. even people who aren't following the keto diet consume too many saturated fats and trans fats, as well as added sugars, sodium and overall calories--all potential risk factors for heart disease.  Dr. Lepor says eating a diet that focuses on sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats--as well as lean proteins like chicken seafood and plant-based options such as legumes--can benefit our hearts and our overall health our hearts and our overall health over time.

Perhaps this small bit of information might help you if you are in need of help.  There were a few other stories in my Reader's Digest that were also interesting, but not as informative as the above story that was published.  There was one other item that I took notice to with my latest issue of Reader's Digest.  It seemed to be a bit smaller in pages than I remember the magazine to be in the past.  Might have been me, but I'm anxious to get my next issue so I can compare them.  Perhaps there weren't as many interesting things to write about for the past issue!  I did read every story and most advertisements so I did get my money's worth as usual.  I will anxiously await my May/June copy so I can enjoy a few more interesting stories.  So...for now...It was another extraordinary day in the life of an ordinary guy.