Thanks so much to all of you who submitted questions to celebrity nutritionist, Dr. Jana Klauer!

Here are some of her answers to your great questions:

Is soy really an adequate source of protein? What are the benefits of eating soy?
- Susan

Dr. Klauer: Problem with soy protein is it is not a complete protein, meaning it doesn’t contain all the amino acids found it nature. Animal proteins are complete proteins. Soy protein doesn’t have the important amino acids that help and repair muscles in the high amounts naturally found in dairy protein: milk, cheese or yogurt. Also, dairy products from free range cows have CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) which protects has shown cancer prevention properties and seems to help with weight loss. CLA is absent from the milk of cows that are not raised naturally.

I’m thinking of doing one of those pre-packaged meals diets (not the fancy fresh ones prepared by chefs). However, I am hesitant because of the preservatives and sodium levels.  Would these pre-packaged meals be a good way to kick off a diet?   - JC   

Dr. Klauer: Pre-packaged meals are time savers but do not offer the best nutrition. I would suggest that you pay careful attention to the label as to ingredients and nutritional information. In most cases the sodium amount is high - this will cause water retention and bloating. Not the best news to  someone trying to lose weight! Also, the carbohydrates may be more than you need. How aabout trying the bags with vegetables that you pop into the microwave with chicken breast and some herbs for a fast and nutritious meal? Or try one of my Everyday Nution shakes as a meal replacement. I created the shakes for my patients and they are formulated to naturally suppress hunger while giving you everything you require nutritionally: 180 calories, 20 g protein, 400 mg calcium, and 700 mg omega 3 fat.

What foods or ingredients should I eat to improve my skin? Thanks!  - Janae

Dr. Klauer: Your skin needs high quality nutrition. Protein should be included in all meals, leafy green vegetables supply vitamins, fruits such as berries and melon are low glycemic fruits that provide vitaminC (hold the collagen bundles together). Don’t neglect hydration, which is essential for beautiful skin.

Drink 2-3 liters water daily. Avoid sugar, because sugar forms complexes with skin proteins (glycation

products) causing dullnes and sagging. Omega 3, found in fish, greatly benefits skin appearance. Omega-3 capsules are a good idea. Vitamin D rejuvenates skin as well, you might consider supplementing with vitaminD too.

Other than the environmental benefits of choosing organic, what are some of the important health benefits of eating organic foods?  - Christine

Dr. Klauer: Organic foods do have benefits: they contain higher amounts of flavonoid compands than foods grown with pesticides. The flavonoids are produced by the growing plant for protection against UV light and environmental pollutants. When we consume plants with them, we too are protected against damage from environmental damage.

Dr. Jana Klauer is a famed celebrity nutritionist and author of The New York Times best-seller How The Rich Get Thin.  She has contributed to Vogue, Town & Country, and TIME magazines and has a follow-up book, The Park Avenue Nutrionist’s Plan, out in stores soon.

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