Katie M. Ellis

There are some good reasons to give up deli meat, but the nitrates added to increase its shelf life may not be one of them.

In the 1970s, nitrates were linked to cancer, but recent studies do not show a link, said Rebecca Richards, registered dietitian and nutrition instructor at Weber State University and Stevens Henager College in Ogden.

Fat may be America's biggest nemesis.

Many of us are carrying around too much of it because we eat too much of it -- but experts say certain kinds of fat, in the right amount, can actually be good for you.

"We need fat to help absorb and store vitamins," said Charlotte Scott, registered dietitian at McKay-Dee Hospital. "Don't use a lot of fat, but don't be fat-phobic. I believe in moderation. I've seen what happens when someone cuts carbs or fat out.

The kettlebell. It's a cast iron ball with a handle. Sure, just picking the thing up has got to be exercise, but is that all there is to it?

Kaysville Sportsplex certified personal trainer Garrett Packer, who has received special training in kettlebell work, said the design makes it a perfect tool for adding power and variety to a workout.

If you want to know what the Top of Utah has to offer by way of dining out, entertainment, recreation and friendship, your best source may be someone new to the area -- if that person is a member of the Top of Utah Newcomers Club.

For example, Patsy Ott of North Ogden could introduce you to all kinds of fun activities and people now, but when she moved here from New Orleans five years ago, she didn't know anyone or anything about the area.

"You can't say there's nothing to do around here. There are so many activities. Anything you want to do, it's in (newcomers club)," she said. "I've met so many people. ... It's a wonderful support group. If somebody needs something, they are there for them."

Local experts say there is no way to tell you what you should plant and how you should take care of it, because every homeowner's situation is so different.

"My job is saving people from themselves. Eighty-percent of the homes I see, I can't believe people spent that much money to get something that ugly," said Landscape Architect Paul Keeler of Deseret Land Design in Plain City.

Keeler said it's a good idea to get expert advice on what to plant because even trees that are native to Utah may not be right for soil west of the freeway.

"If a tree has a 60 percent attrition rate, you really aren't getting bang for your buck. Getting bang for your buck is getting a plant that won't die," he said.

Little touches can make a big difference and are a good option for someone who doesn't have the money for a yard overhaul.

"What we've seen is that people aren't splurging on custom and are trending toward 'I just need something that's going to work for me right now,' " said Brandon Brooks from R&L/Best Vinyl Fencing in Layton.

For this type of consumer, Brooks recommends accentuating accessories like trellises, arbors, gates and vinyl planters.

"You can create accent points to spruce up the backyard and add definition," he said.

What's good for your body can be good for your relationship with your spouse, too.

Randy Chatelain, associate professor of family studies at Weber State University, says working out is one of the most positive things a couple can do together.