From this week’s headlines: the lack of physical education in schools, answers to common food mysteries and how to eat a healthier “deskfast.”

Stress Eating During Tough Times
As the purse strings tighten these days, many pant belts are loosening. When money and job woes hit, more and more folks are turning to stress eating for relief. I find that my clients overeat with certain moods: when they’re happy (say, at a birthday party or big family holiday) or when they’re bored (in the evening in front of the TV). It’s no surprise to see people overindulging when they are stressed, too. Identifying when you like to snack is half the battle — if you are prone to over-munching, choose healthier choices and ditch the sugary junk food. Plus, when you’re on a budget, wholesome, fresh foods can often be cheaper than packaged goods which you might plow through in a stressed-out binge.

Public Enemy #1: Chicken
According to a CDC report released last week, poultry tops the list of foods that most often cause food poisoning. After poultry comes leafy veggies, fruits and nuts. The report found that two-thirds of food-related illnesses were caused by viruses — some that food service employees introduced to food because they didn’t wash their hands properly (yuck!).

Getting Kids Up Out of their Desks
When obese kids come to me for help to lose weight, I always ask them if they exercise. Many say they get some exercise in school once or twice a week, maybe for 40 minutes. I have to explain that’s not enough. Physical education in many state schools is decreasing more and more — the victim of budget cuts, lack of space and other “more important” curriculum. Unfortunately, it’s the kids who are suffering, and U.S. citizens who are footing the health care bill.

Eating a Healthier “Deskfast”
Speaking of desks, many folks are eating their breakfast at their work desk these days (hence the new term “deskfast”). Picking up a muffin from your local deli can cost you 500 or more calories (and that’s not factoring in the iced coffee drink). What are your favorite healthy deskfasts?

Food Mysteries, Solved!
How does popcorn pop? Why is butter different colors? This fun article from the Chicago Tribune has answers to some interesting food questions that may have crossed your mind over the years. Do you have any other food mysteries you’ve always wanted solved? Dish!