Kent State Interns

Why do Egg Yolks Come in Many Different Colors?      Egg yolks can range in color from pale yellow to deep orange. But why? There are many misconceptions that egg yolk color represents nutritional value or quality of the eggs, but this is a myth. The color indicates the diet of the hen. A light yellow yolk means the hen ate a wheat based diet. Yolks that are deeper orange color means that the hen ate a diet that was high in carotenoids. Carotenoids are a red pigment found in plants. Dark yolks are common in free range eggs, especially during the summer months. It comes down to the consumers preferred color. Many consumers want their eggs to be bright colored eggs, but it does not mean that the egg has more nutritional value than the other. The Hens Diet      There are certain foods that hens should avoid eating to avoid an off flavor in eggs. Garlic and onions are the two most common culprits that may impact egg flavor. A few other foods should be avoided b...

  No-Baked Easter Egg Fruit Tart      Easter is a great holiday for getting together with family and having a wonderful dinner together. Kids have a great time with easter egg hunts, and enjoying lots of sweet treats that are packed with tons of added sugars and saturated fats. Sugars and saturated fats can be consumed in moderation, but with all of the treats and meals that take place during Easter, it is hard to consume in moderation. This recipe is a yummy dessert that kids and adults can enjoy. It is packed with fruits high in vitamins and anti oxidants, and healthy proteins and fats that are unsaturated. When saturated fats are replaced with refined carbohydrates, and specifically with added sugars (like sucrose or high fructose corn syrup), the end result is not favorable for heart health. Such replacement leads to changes in LDL, HDL, and triglycerides that may increase risk for heart diseases. Unsaturated fats, particularly monounsaturated fats help protect y...

April 4 th  marks National Vitamin C Day!! What a perfect time to learn more about what benefits Vitamin C provides, and dive into how we can get more Vitamin C into our diet.    Background of Vitamin C   Vitamin C has a scientific name called ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid has so many roles in the body for things like growth and development, repairing tissues, collagen formation, immune function, and iron absorption.  Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants help the body fight against damage that has been caused by free radicals that can build up and contribute to the development of different health conditions. What we would do without Vitamin C?!    Best Sources of Vitamin C  Vitamin C can be found in so many fruits and vegetables. Foods like oranges, lemons, limes, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, green peppers, leafy greens, papaya, and mangoes are great sources of Vitamin C.  Easy ways to get more Vitamin C into your diet are ...

Eating a healthy, balanced diet helps to improve not only your physical health but your mental health and your academic performance as well! With finals weeks coming up, I think we all could do with an extra boost to our academic performances. Tips for optimizing your diet to increase focus and brain power: Nourish Your Brain & Body Eat balanced meals that contain protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Try avoiding large meals that can make you feel tired and unfocused, especially right before studying or going in to take a final. Opt for foods that are high in nutrients and keep snacks like granola bars, fruits, hummus and carrots close by for a quick energy booster. Stay Hydrated! Dehydration can lead to fatigue, poor communication, and difficulty with memory. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your brain functioning optimally. Limit Caffeine and Sugar Intake As tasty and tempting as they are, try to stay away from sugary snacks, coffees, and ene...