Mofongo Stuffed with Criollo Shrimp Stew

Fluoride in water prevents some cavities

Author

American Health
October 07, 2024

Health News Roundup

Fluoride in water prevents some cavities but concern about health risks raises questions about the tradeoffs: A new report from the Cochrane Collaboration, an independent group that systematically analyzes scientific research, found just a slight benefit in adding fluoride to tap water, leading to slightly fewer cavities in children’s baby teeth.

Arm position during blood pressure check may lead to wrong reading: The size of the difference, nearly 7 points in the arm dangling position, was a surprise, said the study’s senior author, Dr. Tammy Brady, a pediatrician and epidemiologist and medical director of the pediatric hypertension program at the Johns Hopkins Children's Center.

Nutrition Corner

Cutting meat intake by a third could reduce rates of heart disease: Researchers used data from two nationwide nutrition surveys and a simulation model based on 8,665 representative Americans to estimate how cutting back on meat could lower heart disease, diabetes, and colon cancer rates.

Diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce heart and kidney disease risk: A new study shows that increased consumption of fruits and vegetables in combination with conventional drug therapy was more effective than drug therapy alone in preserving kidney health and improving cardiovascular health in high blood pressure patients with chronic kidney disease.

Recipe for The Day

Mofongo Stuffed with Criollo Shrimp Stew: Mofongo is a mash of slow-fried plantains, garlic and olive oil. In this recipe, it becomes a cozy vessel for criollo-seasoned shrimp stew. I like to cook my shrimp sauce down with a light beer for a zingy twist of flavor, then add peas — like my mother does — to bring a nice burst of color and a touch of sweetness. The pork rinds in the mofongo are optional, but I encourage them as they provide an element of authenticity to this Caribbean favorite.

Lifestyle & Fitness Focus

11 Best Functional Strength-Training Exercises to Build Real-World Fitness

Overview: Functional strength training focuses on exercises that improve everyday movements and activities, making it ideal for those with busy schedules who prioritize functionality over aesthetics. Exercises like deadlifts help with tasks such as lifting and carrying.

Workout Structure: The workout consists of four circuits, each targeting different movement patterns.

Circuit 1: Vertical Push/Pull

Equipment: Dumbbells

  1. Dumbbell Deadlift: 3 sets of 10 reps

    • Stand hip-width apart, grab dumbbells, and lift by extending hips while keeping a flat back.

  2. Dumbbell Goblet Squat: 3 sets of 10 reps

    • Hold a dumbbell at chest height and perform a squat, keeping a natural arch in the back.

  3. Dumbbell Push Press: 3 sets of 10 reps

    • Press dumbbells overhead using a slight dip in the knees for momentum.

Circuit 2: Horizontal Push/Pull

Equipment: Step platform, Dumbbells, Smith Machine

  1. Dumbbell Deficit Reverse Lunge: 3 sets of 20 strides per leg

    • Step back onto a platform, keeping the torso upright as you lunge.

  2. Inverted Rows: 3 sets of 10 reps

    • Hang from a bar, pull your chest to the bar, and lower back down.

  3. Kettlebell Turkish Getup: 3 sets of 3 reps per arm

    • From lying down, perform a series of movements to stand up while holding a kettlebell overhead.

Circuit 3: Core Strength

Equipment: Pullup bar, empty barbell, plates

  1. Plank Drag: 3 sets of 3 reps

    • In a plank position, drag a weight from one side to the other.

  2. Hanging Leg Raises: 3 sets of 10 reps

    • Hang from a bar and raise legs to 90 degrees.

  3. Standing Russian Twist: 3 sets of 10 reps per side

    • Rotate side to side while holding a weight plate.

Circuit 4: 3-Minute Metabolic Bodyweight Finisher

Equipment: Pullup bar, floor space

  1. Pullup/Pushup Descending Ladder:

    • Start with 8 pull-ups and 8 push-ups, then reduce the count by one each round without resting.

This workout enhances functional strength through compound movements that mimic daily activities, making it efficient and practical.

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