A few days ago, I was chatting with a friend about our holiday plans. She told me that for Thanksgiving, everyone in her family was asked to bring a favorite holiday dish to share. However, they didn’t coordinate ahead of time and ended up with three French silk pies on the dessert table.

If you think about it, one of the healthiest foods on your holiday plate is likely the ham, turkey, lamb or prime rib. Real meat and poultry are protein rich and low in calories. They offer vital micronutrients like iron, zinc and B vitamins that help boost our energy levels and immunity during the cold and flu season.

In this issue of the Iowa Dish, we take a closer look at a new study confirming that red meat can fit into a healthy diet. So it’s OK to eat meat – or not, if you so choose – to meet your health and wellness goals in the New Year.

We also ask Dr. Ruth MacDonald, an Iowa State University nutrition expert, about whether “ elimination diets” can help children with special needs, such as autism or other health issues.

Plus, here’s my prediction for a hot consumer trend that we’ll see in 2020: foods and beverages made with CBD. Check out our story explaining what CBD is, how it’s related (or not) to medical marijuana and whether Iowa farmers will grow hemp in the near future.

And as we celebrate the season of giving, Iowans are encouraged to support local food pantries that help our friends, family and neighbors in need.

Thanks to your generous support, the Iowa Farm Bureau has donated more than $170,000 to the Iowa Food Bank Association through proceeds from the sale of “America Needs Farmers” merchandise, in partnership with the University of Iowa Athletics. To learn more about ANF and to purchase ANF licensed gear, visit www.amercianeedsfarmers.org.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.

Teresa Bjork
Editor, The Iowa Dish

Return to The Iowa Dish