Obesity and heart disease are epidemic in the U.S. Healthy eating is no longer just a good idea, but a matter of life and death. We all know we should eat better. But what, exactly, does that mean? For one person, it might mean having only one piece of the double-fudge chocolate cake instead of two. Another may need to give up fried foods, cut back on meat or switch to organic produce. Simply making time to eat a nutritious breakfast is a step in the right direction. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses through astrology can help you choose healthy eating strategies, and even learn how to eat to heal what ails you. Here are some suggestions (and as always, consult your doctor before making dietary changes, as this does not constitute professional health advice):
Aries (March 21 to April 19)
Because you're always on the run, you often end up skipping meals or grabbing a burger or high-calorie snack. Instead, pack plastic baggies full of fruit or nuts (which enhance immune functions) and carry them everywhere you go. You need lean protein to keep you strong, but commercial meats are full of hormones and other nasty stuff. It's worth paying a bit extra for organic beef and chicken, or wild-caught salmon.
Taurus (April 20 to May 20)
Your craving for sweets and fats is your downfall, Taurus. Instead of a decadent cake, try a light sorbet with fresh raspberries. Or, have a slice of pineapple -- it's an anti-inflammatory that literally "digests" diseased cells and foreign microbes in the throat, which can be a problem area for you. Also, rather than heavy dressings on your salads, use lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil, which soothes and heals the digestive tract.
Gemini (May 21 to June 20)
Carrots are your number one ally, Gemini. Famous for improving the eyesight, one carrot a day also cuts lung cancer risk in half, even among formerly heavy smokers. Cranberries are also good for the breathing system, which can be a trouble zone for you. Consuming too much caffeine can burn out your adrenals. Cut back on sodas, make your latte half-caf and switch to organic coffee without harmful chemicals.
Cancer (June 21 to July 22)
You tend to gravitate toward comfort foods, which, unfortunately, are not the healthiest. Dairy products, in particular, can be problematic for you. Substitute evaporated skim milk for cream in soups and sauces, and try non-fat or soy frozen yogurt with fruit for dessert. Apples, beets and fresh ginger tea will help your sluggish digestive system. And, broccoli and cabbage are terrific for warding off colon and breast cancer.
Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)
Heart health is of primary concern for you, as that's your ruling organ. Avoid fried foods that block your arteries. Bake, broil and roast your meats, and remove the skin from poultry. Avocados and olive oil reduce the risk of heart attack; adding mushrooms and carrots to a healthy stir-fry served over brown rice lowers high blood pressure. And, a few squares of dark chocolate or a glass of red wine a day will help protect your heart.
Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)
Most Virgos are healthy eaters. In fact, you're often first in line for organic produce at the local farmer's market. Most of all, you need to focus on nerve health, as you tend to get wound up easily. Apples, which help lower cholesterol levels, are also excellent for the nerves. Celery helps regulate the nervous system, too -- snazz it up a bit with peanut or almond butter and you've got a wonderful remedy for chronic fatigue.
Health Food for Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces
