The question in full

Q. I've had type 2 diabetes for 15 years. When I was first diagnosed I was told no sugar was permitted and I had to use sweetener. Now why is it now OK for me to have sugar?

People are often not sure about what are ancient grains, how to cook ancient grains and how to incorporate them into their everyday meals. So here are six of my favourites and what I like to do with them. Some are better in salads and sides, some become "mushy" when cooked so are useful for soups and thickening, while some make great breads and baked things.

I’m running my first Photo-a-day challenge on Instagram during the month of June. I’d love you to join me and upload your photos of quinoa, spelt, barley, rice or bulgur or whatever grains, breads or cereals  you’re buying, cooking or consuming. Read on for more details of how to do it.

There's a lot of interest in ancient grains – spelt, quinoa, barley, black rice, kamut and buckwheat - these days and with good reason. Ancient grains bring the romance of rustic old worlds into our kitchens. They add new interesting flavours to our meals and put us in touch with a slower more natural way of life. In this post I'll tell you what they are and why they're enjoying such a revival today.

I was lucky enough to score an invite to see how UNCLE TOBYS rolled oats are made. As one of a small group of media dietitians we got to see the whole oaty process from the harvested grain to the finished product being packed into the familiar 'red box'.

Gluten-free is the trendy food darling of the moment. I’ve never seen a wider choice of gluten-free pasta, bread, muffins, shortbread and muesli bars. Even gluten-free pizza and cookies. But if you don’t have to avoid gluten for medical reasons, I don’t believe these speciality foods will help you lose weight or digest your food better.

You have probably heard of Sebago, Desiree or Kifler potatoes, but have you heard of the Carisma potato? This new variety of potato has just hit the shops riding on its claim to be the first low Glycemic Index (GI) potato. It is grown in South Australia and only available through Coles supermarkets. The potatoes have an oval shape, white skin similar to the Nadine potato and pale yellow-coloured flesh.

Sugar. We all love its soft sweetness but it's clear we overdo its consumption. As a nation, Australia has a collective sweet tooth that sees us consuming ¾ of a kilo a week of the stuff. From soft drinks to ice cream, doughnuts to dessert, sugar is everywhere. While it's not the cause, it's certainly contributing to health problems such as tooth decay, and being overweight.