Ask the Expert: Nutrition #1

First of all, this week launches the Mettler Center Open House (September 10-25). During these 15 days, there is NO JOINING FEE for new members - a very rare opportunity! If you are thinking about joining and getting your fitness routine back on track, now is the time to join! If you are already a member, make sure to tell your family and friends!

For the next 4 weeks on The Mett, we will be featuring an "Ask the Expert" series. Each week will be a different topic - see the schedule below:

• Week 1 (September 12-16): Nutrition
  
• Week 2 (September 19-23): Fitness
  
• Week 3 (September 26-30): Weight Loss
  
• Week 4 (October 3-7): General Health

These questions come from everyday people to Prevention magazine, one of the leading health magazines today. Each question is answered by one of their many expert panelists. We selected some of the most interesting questions - unique concepts that you may have thought of, but never sought out to find an answer.

Over the next 4 weeks, we invite you to ask YOUR questions on the blog! At Mettler Center, we have a large team of certified health, fitness and nutrition professionals. Let us know if you have a specific question for one of our staff members (see a directory of Mettler Center staff here) and we will get your question answered! This is a blog for YOU, so let your voice be heard!

Ask the Expert: Nutrition #1
Q: I've been drinking 100% grape juice for years because I read it's good for your heart. But now I heard it has too much sugar. Should I stop?
A: Keep sipping your grape juice. Research continues to find that 100% dark purple grape juice contains antioxidants that may protect the heart by keeping blood vessels flexible for healthy circulation and reducing the risk of clots and heart attacks. Just keep portions to around 4 ounces each day (about 75 calories and 18 g of naturally occurring sugar). Remember, drinking grape juice is only one small step - your heart also needs regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, fish and low-fat dairy. Bottoms up!