Chia Seeds and Health

Chia seeds come from the plant Salvia hispanica L., and were at one time a major food crop in Mexico and Guatemala.  The chia seed market is projected to reach more than  2 billion USD in sales by 2022.  Chia seeds are rich in polyunsaturated fats (omega-3 fatty acids), fiber, protein, calcium, phosphorous, and zinc. … Continue reading Chia Seeds and Health

Oats and Health

Oats is a type of cereal grain from the Poaceae grass family of plants.  The grain refers specifically to the edible seeds of oat grass, which is what ends up in our breakfast bowls.  Oats are most prized for their nutritional value and health benefits.  In fact the Food and Drug Administration allows the use … Continue reading Oats and Health

Chickpeas and Health

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, come in two varieties.  The Kabuli-type is large, round and light-colored;  The Desi-type is small, dark, and irregularly shaped.  Chickpeas have high nutritional value and are rich in carbohydrate, protein, fiber, B vitamins, and some minerals (phosphorus, iron).  They are a nutritional staple of many diets. Reasons to Eat … Continue reading Chickpeas and Health

Amazing Sweet Potatoes

Unlike a potato (edible tuber of the nightshade family), the sweet potato is a large edible root of the morning glory family.  Sweet potatoes are typically recognized by their copper-colored skin and vibrant orange flesh.  However there are varieties grown worldwide that display colors such as white, cream, yellow, and purple.  The more common orange-fleshed … Continue reading Amazing Sweet Potatoes

Cauliflower’s Remarkable Health benefits

Cauliflower is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family - along with cabbage, kale, broccoli, and brussel sprouts.  Recent studies suggest that cruciferous vegetables are an excellent source of natural antioxidants due to their various phytochemicals. Recent research also demonstrate that cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower are highly correlated with preventing chronic diseases including  cardiovascular disease, … Continue reading Cauliflower’s Remarkable Health benefits

Lemons for Health and Flavor

Lemons are a delicious and healthy part of the Mediterranean Diet, filled with cancer-fighting flavonoids, and loaded with vitamins and minerals.  As with herbs and spices, lemons offer a sodium-free way to flavor foods. Lemons are a good source of vitamin C.  One average size fruit contains 30 mg, which is about 51% of the … Continue reading Lemons for Health and Flavor

Go Bananas For Bananas

Bananas are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world for good reason.  They are extremely healthy and delicious.  There are several varieties, which vary in color, size and shape.  The most common type is the yellow banana which is green when unripe. You may already know that bananas are a great source of potassium.  A … Continue reading Go Bananas For Bananas

Health Benefits of Oranges

Long recognized as a potent source of vitamin C, oranges are considered by most to be tasty, juicy, and all too familiar.  The discoveries being made about the power of oranges to support heart health and prevent cancer, stroke, diabetes and other chronic ailments are bringing them and other citrus fruits into the limelight as … Continue reading Health Benefits of Oranges

The Several Benefits of Avocados

Avocado - that buttery green fruit that you can spread on a sandwich, dice into a salad, and mash into guacamole (America's favorite dip).  Research has demonstrated that avocados offer some surprising and powerful health benefits. One of the most nutrient-dense foods, avocados are high in fiber, folate, potassium, vitamin E, and magnesium.  No doubt, … Continue reading The Several Benefits of Avocados

Kiwi Fruit: The Chinese Gooseberry

The kiwi or kiwifruit is one of nature's perfect foods: low in calories and an excellent source of antioxidants, and people are attracted to it because of its brilliant green color and exotic taste.  While many fruits offer one or two nutrients in their profile, kiwi offers an unusual array of health-promoting substances. Kiwi is native to China.  Cultivation … Continue reading Kiwi Fruit: The Chinese Gooseberry