From the desk of Ms B

NEWS & TRENDS

The Best Oil For Your Belly

Olive, a healthy oil for your heart, may also benefit your stomach. Microbiologist at the University Hospital of Valme in Seville, Spain, combined virgin olive oil with H.pylori - the bug that causes most peptic ulcers and some types of sotmach cancer - in a test tube of stomachlike acid. The oil knocked out eight different strains of the powerful bacteria, three of which even antibiotics coulnd't defeat. Researchers credit olive oil's high level of polyphenols, compunds that have strong antibacterial properties. Look for virgin or extra virgin on the label. These oils, from the first pressings of olives, pack the most polyphenols.

The Healthiest New Coffees

The evidence that coffee is good for you just keeps mounting. A recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that consuming 2 to 3 daily cups of caffeinated drinks, including coffee, can cut your risk of dying from heart disease by at least 31%. Coffee may also significantly lower your likelihood of developing colon concer, according to another recent study, published in the International Journal of Cancer. For more health benefits try these three new custom brews.

- To avoid heartburn try : Gentle Java, which uses Guatemalan arabica beans that are steamed before they're roasted to neutralize acid and eliminate or reduce more then 70 hearthurn - and indigestion - causing irritants. Available in more than 10 varieties, including Wake Up Blend & Irish Creme (gentlejava.com)

- To reduce your cancer risk : Caffe Sanora, organic blends with up to 40% more antioxidants than other premium coffees. Falvours include House Blend & Expresso Roast (caffesanora.com)

- To get a protein boost : JavaSoy Coffee, a blend of roasted soybeans and Colombian and arabica coffee. Each 8-ounce serving provides 7 times the protein (2g) of a regular cup. It also has half the caffeine of regular coffee. Flavors include Breakfast Blend, French Vanilla & Caramel Cream (adlerfoods.com)