Superfoods – Page 2 – Juice Health Benefits & Recipes

20 Jan

Hemp Seeds, Discover the Hidden Benefits of this Nutritional Powerhouse

Hemp seeds are a plant-based protein source that provides many essential nutrients in a small, nutty-tasting package. Though many people are still confused about plant proteins, food-grade hemp has become more mainstream in recent years. Both individuals and food manufacturers are beginning to recognize the benefits of this nutritional powerhouse.

Hemp Facts

Hemp is a fast-growing, highly renewable plant that is grown around the world for a variety of uses. Though often associated with drugs, most hemp is very low in THC, making it suitable for use as a food. Many countries including Spain, France, the UK and China grow hemp legally for this purpose as well as for fiber production. One of the earliest cultivated plants, hemp was even grown by the Aztec and Mayan civilizations.

Hemp contains all 21 known amino acids, including the 9 that the human body needs to build proteins, making it a “complete” protein source.

Over the last several years, hemp has grown in popularity as a food ingredient. This is likely due to its nutritional profile. Vegetarians, vegans and raw foodists have shown particular interest in hemp seeds and other hemp-based foods as sources of important nutrients that are otherwise obtained from animal sources.

A Nutritional Superfood

Hemp contains all 21 known amino acids, including the 9 that the human body needs to build proteins, making it a “complete” protein source. Hemp is also an excellent source of essential fatty acids (EFAs)—the omega-3 and omega-6 fats that your body needs to function properly. Steriadonic acid (SDA) and gamma linolenic acid (GMA) help the body make use of these, promoting an anti-inflammatory environment and helping to control metabolism, hormonal symptoms and LDL cholesterol levels.

Hemp contains a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, which is considered the optimal ratio for human health. In addition, the forms of SDA and GMA found in hemp are delivered as direct metabolites, meaning that the body doesn’t have to convert the fats from one type to another before using them.

Antioxidant vitamin E appears naturally in hemp along with minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc and phosphorus. Hemp is low in saturated fat when compared with the typical American diet and contains no cholesterol. These properties help you maintain a good balance between unsaturated and saturated fats in your diet while delivering nutrients that your body needs.

Though often associated with drugs, most hemp is very low in THC, making it suitable for use as a food.

Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds

Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, hemp seeds can do a lot to benefit your health. They’re also a good source of phytonutrients and antioxidants. Antioxidants fight free radicals in the body that can cause cell damage. Phytonutrients are known for being protective against disease. Together the nutritional elements of hemp seeds work to improve your skin, strengthen your immune system, help nerve function, support brain and heart health and even boost energy levels. Best of all, hemp has no known allergens. A study made in Spain also confirmed that hemp oil can help curing cancer, if you want to read more about that click here.

How to Eat Hemp

There are many delicious ways to enjoy hemp seeds, the simplest being to incorporate them into foods that you already eat. Hemp seeds are light in flavor, so you can sprinkle them on your morning oatmeal or your after-dinner salad without much of a change in taste. You can also bake hemp seeds into your favorite breads and muffins to add nutritional value.

The recommended intake of hemp seeds is 2-4 tablespoons daily. However, the health benefits aren’t limited to just the seeds. Many hemp foods including non-dairy hemp milk, hemp seed butter, hemp oil and hemp protein powders are available at health food stores and online. Hemp is even beginning to appear in cereals, trail mixes and sprouted breads.

Here Ani will show you how to make a Hemp Protein Shake that’s great for post workout using hemp protein powder and hemp seeds:

With hemp seeds, it’s easy to add superfoods to your daily diet. Whether you sprinkle them on cereal, blend them into a smoothie or mix them into your favorite muffin batter, these super little seeds will bring you a boost of the nutrients you need from a 100 percent plant-based source.

19 Jan

Superfood: Low fat or Fat-free Yogurt? Really?

With the many health and fitness trends circulating these days, it’s easy for most of us to become overwhelmed. If you’ve been struggling to sort through the minefield of diet and exercise fads, one of the easiest and steadfast rules to apply to your daily life is this—eat less, eat clean and move more. “Cleaning” your diet refers to eliminating over processed, over salted, high fat foods and focusing more on including whole, natural foods that are not devoid of their nutrients due to the processing phase. One of the simplest and most enjoyable selections is probably already in your fridge—low fat or fat-free yogurt.

Even an Ordinary Yogurt has History

Discovery of yogurt was a very happy accident, the result of storing milk products in warmer climates and using rather primitive methods dating as far back as the Neolithic societies of Central Asia.

It’s widely known that the discovery of yogurt was a very happy accident, the result of storing milk products in warmer climates and using rather primitive methods dating as far back as the Neolithic societies of Central Asia. This particular group of people was known as herdsmen who used animal stomachs to carry the milk product from their livestock. Such methods of transportation encouraged a curdling of the milk, thus resulting in a very early form of yogurt. The process of fermenting dairy products of course evolved throughout the centuries with each society progressing the practice of creating various types of this beloved treat. In the twentieth century, Isaac Carasso of Barcelona was the first known individual to industrialize the manufacturing and production of commercial yogurt. You might be familiar with the modern day company Danone. Back in 1919, Carasso’s yogurt brand was called “Danone”, named for his son Daniel and today is recognized across the globe as one of the most familiar yogurt brands available.

Superfood

Long considered a power-packed food, the good bacteria cultures of low fat and non-fat yogurt serve as a boost to your immune system. These amazing little cultures work to stimulate your own white cells that serve to help ward off many common viruses and infections. For those of us watching our weight, yogurt, particularly Greek yogurt, contains an excellent source of protein. Adding a few extra grams of protein to your diet helps aids in the creation and preservation of lean muscle mass as well as keeping those pesky mid-afternoon snacking urges at bay.

Health Benefits

Yogurt carries high amounts of probiotics, the live bacteria cultures known for improving intestinal health and reducing the chances of developing many forms of colon disease.

Many people shy away from yogurt due to an inability to digest lactose, however this amazing superfood can actually aid such aliments due to it’s high levels of lactase, the enzyme needed to breakdown lactose in the body. Yogurt carries high amounts of probiotics, the live bacteria cultures known for improving intestinal health and reducing the chances of developing many forms of colon disease. Women can specifically benefit from adding a cup or two of yogurt to their food intake. The live-active cultures found in yogurt are known to effectively decrease the risk of developing yeast infections as well as adding some much needed calcium to the diet.

Best Way to Enjoy

Yogurt is an incredibly diverse food and can be folded into a wide array of recipes including curries, traditional Greek dishes, grilling sauces and marinades. However, sometimes simple is best. The quickest way to enjoy this lively little food is to scoop out a cup of non-fat or low-fat yogurt, preferably non-sweetened, and add a teaspoon of delicious low-glycemic Agave nectar. Throw on a few blueberries for antioxidents and you have a protein-packed snack. For a complete breakfast, pair a half of a cup of yogurt and your teaspoon of Agave nectar as a side to a cup of steel-cut organic oats.

A quick note, those little containers you may have plucked from the grocers can be sneaky. Most commercially available yogurts contain high amounts of processed sugars, meaning that they have refined sugars added to the natural amount of sugar found in dairy products. While the notion of fruit swirled into your yogurt is appealing, it can also mean adding many additional calories to your daily limit. Be smart and always opt for yogurt without artificial flavorings. This is your chance to be creative, add your own fresh fruit or natural, plant-based sweeter to liven up this amazing superfood.

Here is a video how to make a quick snack from Greek Yogurt. If you want to make it healthier skip sugar and use oats for cereal. Enjoy!

18 Jan

Maca, Energy Boost From Peruvian Andes That You Can Not Miss

General Information

If you follow the latest health and nutrition news, you’ve no doubt heard of the many nutrient-rich superfoods and their benefits. A starchy Peruvian tuber, maca commonly ranks near the top of most superfood lists. Read on to learn more about this amazing supplement.

The hardy maca plant (Lepidium meyenii) thrives high in the Peruvian Andes Mountains in poor soil and extreme weather. The Incas domesticated maca approximately 2,000 years ago and began cultivating this plant for its many nutritional and medicinal benefits. A root vegetable like the potato, maca resembles a turnip or beet root. Ancient mountain dwellers commonly ate boiled maca to maintain overall health, and Inca warriors ingested it to boost their energy for sports and battle. In addition, due to its fertility-enhancing properties, ancient shamans employed maca in fertility ceremonies. Spanish settlers in Peru first documented the Incas’ use of maca in the 16th century. In recent decades, cultivation of this superfood in Peru has greatly increased to meet a growing demand worldwide. Nowadays, you can buy maca in most health-food stores.

Due to its fertility-enhancing properties, ancient shamans employed maca in fertility ceremonies.

What Makes Maca a Superfood?

Maca abounds with antioxidants, minerals, B-vitamins, amino acids, beneficial fats, fiber and enzymes and boasts 60 micronutrients. In addition, maca is an adaptogen, a substance that works best when taken regularly in small amounts over time as a tonic; an adaptogen balances, supports and enhances the functioning of multiple body systems, treating all systems that need balancing. Maca especially benefits the endocrine system, including the pituitary and adrenal glands and the hypothalamus. Balancing these primary endocrine glands in turn balances the testes, ovaries and pancreas. Maca also supports the immune, circulatory, digestive and nervous systems. A multivitamin in itself, maca has earned a reputation as a superfood.

9 Health Benefits

Not surprisingly, maca offers numerous health benefits:

For athletes, maca boosts stamina, endurance and energy.
In addition, maca’s natural plant sterols increase muscle strength and mass; bodybuilders can employ this superfood in place of anabolic steroids.
Furthermore, maca improves fertility and sexual functioning and increases libido, earning this superfood the nickname “Peruvian ginseng.”
Since it balances male and female sex hormones, maca also treats PMS and menopause symptoms as well as erectile dysfunction.
This superfood also counteracts fatigue and stress,
enhances memory,
and boosts mental and emotional health.
Finally, maca relieves stiff joints in arthritis sufferers and
fights respiratory disorders and cancer.

You can find a few more benefits here, here, here and here.

Incorporating Maca Into Your Diet

Today, the most common way to use maca is by using maca powder.

Traditionally, Peruvians eat boiled maca as a food, but, in many parts of the world, you can only find maca in powdered, extract, or pill form. Some maca powders contain added spices for additional flavor. Some health-food stores also carry teas, nut butters and other products containing maca. You can incorporate maca into your diet by adding it to shakes, juices, smoothies or recipes for raw cookies, ice creams and other desserts.

For standardized maca extract, the commonly recommended dosage is 300 mg three times daily. Since maca pills, extracts and powders are far more concentrated than the boiled roots, many nutritionists recommend using them sparingly. One teaspoon per day of maca powder taken regularly over time provides an excellent tonic for the body’s systems without the risk of overconsuming this powerful supplement. Oh – and when using maca you will notice a difference in the smell of your pee. It’s normal.

Maca Smoothie Recipe

The following smoothie recipe incorporates maca root and makes a healthy, energy-boosting snack. To prepare this drink, place all the ingredients in a blender and blend them together for one minute or longer, depending on your blender’s power. Serve this delicious smoothie in a tall glass.

Energizing Chocolate Smoothie

1 cup hazelnut or almond milk
¼ cup chopped dates
2 tablespoons chopped dinosaur kale
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
2 teaspoons raw cacao nibs
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract or powder
½ teaspoon bee pollen
½ teaspoon powered maca root
4 ice cubes

And another one, this time as usual with video instructions. For this one you will need:

1/4 cup cacao nibs
1 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp cacao powder
2 tbsp hemp seeds
1 tbsp maca powder
1 banana
1 cup dates
Hemp milk to taste

Apart from maca this smoothie has load of other “good for you” ingredients. Enjoy!

17 Jan

Mustard Greens, Medicinal Food of the Ancient Romans and Greeks

About

Pungent, flavorful mustard greens are among the most nutritious of vegetables. They are an excellent addition to soups, are a popular side dish, and can be cooked in many creative ways. Their health and medicinal benefits are valued worldwide. Mustard greens were considered by the ancient Romans and Greeks to be a medicinal food and have been part of the Indian diet for thousands of years. They are believed to have been brought to the US by African slaves. Easily grown in the home garden, they are a cool-weather vegetable that works well as a winter or early spring planting in US Plant Hardiness Zones 7-9. The greens can be grown year-round in warmer weather, and so are commonly available in supermarkets.

Mustard greens were considered by the ancient Romans and Greeks to be a medicinal food and have been part of the Indian diet for thousands of years..

Mustard greens as a superfood

Mustard greens are what is known as a “cruciferous vegetable,” a member of the cabbage family that also includes broccoli, turnips, collards, kale and Brussels sprouts. All of these vegetables are high in chemicals that protect from cancer. The family in general is high in vitamins A, C, E and folate. Their Vitamin A is present mainly in the form of beta-carotene. Mustard greens contain lutein, which is believed to help prevent colon cancer and which gives the eyes natural protection from sunlight. They contain vitamin K and are an excellent non-dariy source of calcium, both of which are necessary for bone strength. Their calcium is more easily absorbed than that of spinach or Swiss chard. The omega-3 acids they contain are important for cardiovascular health. They have an especially high ratio of nutrients to calories and are very economical.

Mustard greens, especially when steamed, have a proven ability to lower cholesterol.

Health benefits of mustard greens

Chinese and ayurvedic medicine use mustard as an expectorant and to promote respiratory health. Mustard greens, especially when steamed, have a proven ability to lower cholesterol. They are high in glucosinolates, antioxidants which help to detoxify the body and protect the liver. A natural antacid, mustard greens soothe and fortify the digestive system. Their high calcium levels can be important for those who cannot consume dairy products or for diabetics on high-fiber diets. The combination of detoxification, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties makes mustard greens a powerful cancer preventative.

How to prepare them?

You should eat mustard greens or other cruciferous vegetables 2-5 times a week, in servings of 1-2 cups. They are very low in calories and should only be avoided by those with kidney or gallbladder problems or those on blood-thinning medication. Mustard greens may be consumed raw in salads, but their nutrients are more readily absorbed when they are cooked. Cooking also helps to avoid digestive problems that can result from their tough fibers. The recommended method is to steam them for 5-15 minutes, but they can also be sliced and then sauteed in near-boiling broth or water for 5 minutes or so. In the microwave, cook them for 4-7 minutes. Some cooks like to tenderize them by blanching them in boiling water for a minute before cooking them.

Boiled greens served with a vinegary hot sauce are a staple of Southern cooking. This preparation usually includes a ham hock thrown in for flavor, but smoked turkey makes a good low-calorie substitute. They could be used as a substitute for taro leaves in callaloo, the peppery coconut milk-based Trinidadian soup. Canned mustard greens are often available in supermarkets, but are likely to contain added sodium.

As this is a juice and smoothie website, you can of course also use mustard greens when making a smoothie. Here is a nice recipe:

16 Jan

Noni, Can This Snake Oil Be Trusted At All?

General Information

Noni is one of those natural remedies that was hyped up as a miracle cure for everything to cancer. Together with MLM type sales it got a really bad reputations. But this is not fruits fault. Here are a few facts that you should know about noni. The official name for this plant is Morinda citrofolia. It has also been called Indian Mulberry. Noni is a plant that is native to the Pacific Islands, Australia and Asia. The plant grows well in the volcanic ash and rock found on many of the islands. It grows as a flowering shrub and reaches up to ten feet in height. The small white flowers grow into a yellow fruit that has a pungent odor. Because of its odor, it is sometimes called vomit fruit. The fruit grows to about the size of a potato and has been used for hundreds of years in traditional Polynesian medicine.

The islanders used the fruit for conditions such as diarrhea, constipation, infections, joint pain, menstrual disorders, urinary pain, and mouth sores. The leaves were used for wound healing and skin conditions. When heated, the leaves were used as a poultice for coughs and colic.

Because of its odor, it is sometimes called vomit fruit.

Superfood Attributes

A superfood is a food that is rich in components that can fight disease. Noni is a great source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Antioxidants are known to help slow the effects of aging and to help avert the development of certain diseases. It also contains all nine essential amino acids. Noni fruit is also rich in anthraquinones and polysaccharides that have specific health benefits. It contains xeronine which the body uses to activate enzymes and build proteins.

Health Benefits

In more recent years, Noni has been touted to help numerous health conditions. These claimed health benefits include arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, atherosclerosis, menstrual disorders, constipation, bowel problems, hypertension, cancers, indigestion, stroke, gastric ulcers, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and immune disorders.

Laboratory research indicates that noni has tumor-fighting, immune-stimulating, and antioxidant properties. Other research shows that it inhibits the growth of cancer cells due to its antioxidant value. Another study in Germany determined that noni fruit juice can relieve joint pain and arthritic inflammation.

Noni is also shown to have anti-ulcer benefits by limiting the acid in the stomach and increasing the amount of mucous to protect the lining of the stomach. When used topically, noni can help heal burns and skin disorders.

The plant also contains a component that activates the serotonin brain receptors. Serotonin plays a role in mental health, regulating body temperature, hunger, sleep, and sexual behavior. When the body does not have enough serotonin it can develop depression, Alzheimer’s, migraines, obesity, and other diseases.

Noni is a great source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

How to Use It?

The noni fruit has a strong odor and taste, so it is generally combined with other juices such as orange or grape to make it more palatable. To juice the fruit, remove the peel and place the flesh into a blender. Puree until it becomes liquid. Pour the liquid through a sieve and push the juice through with a spoon. You can drink the liquid as is, or mix with another juice to help improve the taste.

Many islanders eat the fruit either raw, or cooked. It is often used in a curry. To make a curry, chop the unripe noni fruit into stir-fry sized pieces and cook it with broccoli and/or cauliflower. Add curry paste and coconut milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and allow it to simmer for ten minutes or until the noni fruit is softened.

Noni fruit is also available in tablets or capsules.

15 Jan

Oats as a Superfood? Powerful, Nutrient-rich, And You Can Eat Them Everyday

Oats are an often overlooked food, frequently considered bland, uninteresting or even lacking nutrition. However, this could not be further from the truth: Oats are a powerful, nutrient-rich food that should be eaten every day.

What are Oats?

Historically, oats were not as widely used as wheat or barley. The oldest known location of oats being regularly used was in the Switzerland during the Bronze Age. Oats first came to North America in 1602 and are believed to have originated in Asia Minor. After being planted around the coast of Massachusetts upon arrival, oats slowly were spread across North America. By the 1870s, oats were prevalent in the middle and upper Mississippi valley, where they are primarily produced in America today. Russia, Finland, Poland, and Canada, in addition to the United States, are the leading producers of oats today.

Russia, Finland, Poland, and Canada, are in addition to the United States the leading producers of oats today.

Historical Uses
Oats have traditionally been used as food or pasture grounds for livestock since they were first cultivated. Oats have also been a food source for humans, particularly in Scotland. Oats have also been used as a treatment for diabetes before insulin was developed. Today, many cereals and bread products are made using oat flour or other oat products. Even dairy products, like ice cream, often contain a type of oat product used as a stabilizer.

Why is it a Superfood?

Oats are considered a superfood because they are high in a number of nutrients and minerals, while being low in calories. Oats are rich in zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, Vitamin C and B vitamins. In addition to nourishing skin, nails and hair, oats also deliver nutrients to the nervous system and provide energy. Oats are also a good source of fiber. Because they have a low glycaemic index, oats are slowly digested, which can improve both mood and concentration, and even help prevent or manage diabetes. Oats are an ideal food for dieters, as their slow digestion keeps you feeling full and satisfied for longer. They are also a good source of protein, containing amounts comparable to meat and milk.

Eating one bowl of oats a day has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels by up to 20%.

Health Benefits

Eating one bowl of oats a day has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels by up to 20%. Additionally, oats can help prevent heart disease, reduce blood pressure, keep blood sugar levels maintained and boost the immune system.

Oats that are less processed, like whole oat groats or steel-cut oats, take the longest amount of time for the body to break down, which helps to keep the blood sugar regulated. Oats can also help prevent heart disease, due to an antioxidant that can only be found in oats called avenanthramides. Oats can also lower your risk for certain cancers, like colorectal cancer, due to the large amounts of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants found in them. Oats also contain phytoestrogen, which can decrease the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer.

How to Eat Oats

One of the great things about oats is that they are versatile. Oats can easily be eaten alone as granola, porridge or muesli. Perhaps the easiest way to get the recommended daily amount of oats, one cooked cup, is to have a bowl of oatmeal with fruit and cinnamon for breakfast. For a change of pace from the traditional bowl of oatmeal, oat flour can be used in place of traditional flour in many recipes, like cookies, cakes, bread and even pancakes.

Another easy way to get oats into your diet is smoothies. This banana oat smoothie, from Martha Stewart’s website, is a great way to get oats into your diet. This easy smoothie recipe combines oats, yogurt, banana, milk, honey, and cinnamon for a healthy, nutrient-packed meal or snack. Another cool smoothie recipe is in this video. You will need 1/4 cup oats, 1 tbsp. ground flaxseed, 1 cup almond milk, 2 frozen bananas, 1 tbsp. maple syrup, 1/4 tsp. cinnamon, 1 handful pre-soaked almonds. Here is how to do it:

However you eat them, oats are packed with important nutrients and are low in calories. They provide a number of health benefits, making them an ideal food for every day.

14 Jan

Parsley – Herb,Spice,Vegetable and Medicinal Plant, 10 Reasons Not To Miss It

What Is Parsley?

You’re probably most familiar with parsley as that swig of green on top of your favorite casserole. If you’re only using parsley as a garnish, though, you’re selling this versatile herb short. Parsley can be used as an herb, a spice, a vegetable and a medicinal plant.

Parsley belongs to the family Apiaceae, and is related to such other culinary herbs as dill, fennel, cumin, caraway and anise. There are three varieties of parsley:

• Curly parsley, sometimes called French parsley, which has a slightly bitter taste, and is mostly grown as an ornamental.

• Flat leaf parsley, or Italian parsley, which is the herb most often used in cooking.

• Hamburg parsley, which is grown for its root and is a common ingredient in Eastern European cuisines.

Parsley is chock full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, several B vitamins, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper and iodine. Parsley has more vitamin C per gram than most citrus fruits, with 166mg per 100g (4oz), which is three times as much as an orange. Parsley also contains more beta-carotene than a large carrot.

Parsley has been used to help relieve menstrual cramps as far back as the Middle Ages.

Why Is It a Superfood?

Parsley has been elevated to the pantheon of superfoods because it’s packed with nutrients that team up in synergistic ways. Parsley’s B vitamins work together to revitalize your nervous system functions, which makes the herb a great stress reducer. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, essential to over 300 bodily functions.

Since the times of the ancient Greeks, parsley has been used as a digestive aid.

Parsley, the Stress Reducer and Other Health Benefits

Parsley can be used to maintain health and to combat specific illnesses.

Parsley is one of the best breath fresheners around, instantly ridding your mouth of unwelcome memories of that garlic pizza you had for lunch.
The Vitamin C in parsley boosts your immune system, safeguarding against colds and other types of infection.
Vitamin C is also a powerful anti-inflammatory, which means parsley can reduce the pain and joint stiffness associated with arthritis.
Vitamin C also assists with calcium absorption, which means parsley promotes bone and tooth health.
Parsley is a natural diuretic that can help prevent water retention and bloating. It flushes out the kidneys by stimulating urination. It can also help heal bladder and urinary tract infections.
Parsley has been used to help relieve menstrual cramps as far back as the Middle Ages. The secret ingredient? An essential oil called apiol that is still a widely used folk medicine to treat amenorrea. In fact, pregnant women should not eat parsley because it can induce miscarriage.
Since the times of the ancient Greeks, parsley has been used as a digestive aid. Though no scientific evidence has yet confirmed these results, parsley has been used for centuries to eliminate excess gas and stimulate bowel movements.
Parsley contains flavonoids, and flavonoids have anticarcinogenic properties.
Parsley also contains an essential oil called myristicin, which has been found to inhibit tumor growth in animal studies.
Parsley contains large quantities of the B vitamin folic acid, an essential nutrient that slows the arterial wall thickening characteristic of atherosclerosis. Folate also reduces levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that increases the risk of heart attacks, blood clots and strokes.

As most herb, fruit and vegetables, parsley is best used fresh.

How To Take Parsley

When used for medicinal purposes, parsley is most often juiced. Alternative health care practitioners recommend drinking no more than two ounces of parsley juice every day.

Parsley tea can also be brewed from either the fresh or dried herb. The recommended serving is six ounces a day.

Parsley is also available in supplement capsule form. The safest supplements are those made from dried parsley. Refer to the label for dosing information.

The ingestion of parsley oil is controversial. While some sources say it promotes optimal health, other sources point out that the active ingredients in parsley oil, myristicin and apiol, can be toxic to the liver and are a known abortifacient. Individuals taking diuretics, blood thinning medications and lithium are cautioned to avoid taking parsley in large amounts as a health supplement, though small amounts in food carry no risks.

Here is a cool recipe for making parsley juice. Since parsley has a very strong taste it is usually added to other juices. This one teaches you how to make carrot, apple and parsley juice (don’t mind the scary music :) ).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOfsTL2PKxc

13 Jan

Bee Propolis, a Multipurpose Natural Medicine

Propolis is the main substance used as the sustainability of a bee hive by its worker bees. It is a sticky resin secreted by the breaking down of resins that the worker bees collect on daily outings. As the worker bees collect the resin from the bark and trees in their local areas, they reserve some of the resin for multi-purposes.

What is Propolis And How Is It Made?

A chain reaction happens when a mixture of bee saliva breaks down the enzymes of the resin and creates a gluey substance. The color of the propolis will vary with each region and the native plants and trees. Diversity of the botanical resources the worker bee visits creates the different colors in which propolis can be found.

Propolis is a sticky resin secreted by the breaking down of resins that the worker bees collect on daily outings.

The favorite area of harvesting propolis for the worker bees is around coniferous trees which bear cones. This resin is known for its anti-bacteria properties and nutritional properties, it can be found in many colors hues of greens, reds, whites and blacks.

Antibiotics Alternative and Other Health Benefits

Known for being a cost-efficient alternative to over-the-counter and prescription antibiotics, propolis has no known side effects, and can be found in personal skin care products, health food supplements and homeopathic products. Orally, propolis is utilized in medicinal conditions for wound healing from bedsores, easing diabetic conditions and helping to heal wound burns.

Propolis is made when a mixture of bee saliva breaks down the enzymes of the resin and creates a gluey substance.

Autoimmune diseases like cold sores and herpes simplex can also be what propolis is used for. There are some homeopathic throat sprays that contain propilis, although it is touted as a bitter tasting ingredient.

Historical usage and Studies of Propolis

Propolis was not always culled from the bee hive and used it was thrown away because it was thought to be waste and not edible. Not until its healing properties were discovered by the Greeks and the Egyptians was it harvested. The medicinal properties and curious effects of applied propolis are still being conducted today.

Honeycomb

The effects of heat to the propolis are being studied by Engineering and Applied Sciences. The goal of the study is to understand the role of propolis and its part in soybean oil consumption in conjunction with dietary changes. The focus being on consumer health risks for the rate of peroxide production from the combination in excess of heat over 100 degrees Celsius.

Currently being tested and studied in the field of biometrics is the green propolis in mouthwashes, and may soon show up in many of our household products. Propolis was also tested on Wistar rats for its anticarcinogenic (anti-cancer properties) and antimutagenic effects.

Is It a Super food?

Propolis can be found in as many forms as its color hues. There are powdered propolis, liquid, gels and oils. Its production form depends on its use of consumption and products it will be used in after it has been sterilized and passed quality control. Propolis is considered a super food because of its concentrated flavinoids used for anti-bacterial and autoimmune properties, as well as its dietary benefits.

Closeup of propolis grains. The color of the propolis varies with each region and the native plants and trees.

Best Ways to Consume It

As a supplemental health food additive, studies have shown it is conducive to a healthy daily nutritional diet. Many health conscious consumers are using propolis daily by adding it as a powder form into their foods. A daily recommendation of propolis in its many forms is as low as 200 milligrams to as high as 500 milligrams daily.

Some consumers of propolis actually introduce it into their cooking techniques as oil for frying and sautéing their foods; fat makes propolis more soluble for this purpose. A simple recipe for using propolis as a sauce is:

Honey and Caramel Sauce (Propolis Dessert Sauce)

Sprig of thyme
1 tsp. citric zest (Lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit)
½ cup of honey
1 tsp. unsalted butter
¼ cup of heavy cream (Plus one teaspoon)
Dash of sea salt
½ gram of propolis

Heat the honey in a saucepan until it boils into a reduction. Add the butter and cream to the honey reduction and cool the sauce. Finish up the sauce by adding the salt, propolis and the zest and thyme.

12 Jan

Quinoa Grain, A Well Kept Secret From The Past

What is Quinoa?

It seems like quinoa popped up out of nowhere as the world’s newest superfood. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, this grain has been used for thousands of years. Archaeologists have traced quinoa back to the Incans who regarded it as sacred. They even restricted its growth so that the commoners couldn’t abuse its benefits. Even in America, it predated the corn craze because of its ability to grow in cooler climates.

Quinoa was one of the most popular grains in the Inca empire.

While it is used as a grain in today’s recipes, it is actually part of another family similar to beets and spinach. This quinoa bandwagon has people asking many questions regarding its health benefits and ease of use. For example…

Why is Quinoa a Superfood?

Today, quinoa is not necessarily regarded as sacred, but it is appreciated for its extremely high nutritional value. First, it has a high protein content. It is actually 14% protein by mass. While this is not as high as many beans and legumes, it is a great alternative that can be incorporated into nearly every meal.

In addition to protein, it contains many other nutrients. It is a great source of dietary fiber. This helps to keep the digestive system working well and encourages weight loss. Quinoa also contains phosphorus, magnesium, and iron. Surprisingly, it is also full of calcium making it great for vegans that are lactose intolerant.

Quinoa started to become noticed when gluten allergies become more common. Quinoa is a naturally gluten free food making it easy to digest.

Red and white quinoa grain, low in cholesterol and high in complex carbohydrates.

What Are The Health Benefits of this Vegetarian Meat Alternative?

The fact that quinoa is so high in protein makes it extremely healthy. It is perfect for those who are working out and want to incorporate more protein into their diet without consuming the fat in most meats. It is also an alternative to meats for vegetarians. They get most of the same health benefits of meat without having to turn to unnatural substances.

Quinoa is a dream food for most dieters. It is low in cholesterol and high in complex carbohydrates. This means that it keeps you fuller for longer and provides nutritional value while doing so. Other diet foods are packed full of sugars or simple carbohydrates that send you on a dieting roller coaster. Also, because quinoa is low in calories, you can nearly as much as you want without feeling guilty.

The fiber and other nutrients in quinoa make it an extremely effective detoxing food. It cleans out the digestive system while cleansing the liver and kidneys. If you suffer from any sort of digestive disorder or slow metabolism, quinoa may be the answer.

Quinoa is beneficial to so many other parts of the body. It helps promote bone strength. It aids in focus and concentration. It also provides the body with energy it needs to make other healthy decisions.

How to Prepare it & Eat it?

To get the full health benefits of quinoa, try having one or two servings per day. Because it is such a versatile food, you can have quinoa with any meal. This ensures that you get all the health benefits possible. If you are vegan or replacing all your grains with quinoa, you may need more than one or two servings. Here is a simple recipe to get you started.

Simple Quinoa Recipe

For one cup of quinoa, you will use two cups of water. This will result in three cups of quinoa and three servings.

Begin by rinsing the quinoa so the water runs clear. Heat the seeds in a pan with olive oil for about one minute until all the water has evaporated. Add the water and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down low and let it sit for 15 minutes. Remove the pot from the burner and allow it to sit covered for about 5 minutes. Fluff with fork and serve.

From here, you can experiment so it accompanies your meal:

add brown sugar or maple syrup for breakfast,
use chicken broth instead of water as a side dish,
serve it cold and add vegetables for a summer salad,
etc…

To get you started, here is a cool quinoa salad recipe video:

Quinoa certainly deserves its reputation as a superfood. Try it out for yourself and experience all the benefits.

11 Jan

Raspberries as a Superfood

Ever since my grandmother would send me into her garden to pick raspberries for a pie or her wonderful raspberry jam I have loved this wonderful berry. Every third berry wound up in my mouth and not in the bowl. That is why it is so great to learn that raspberries are not only delicious, but they are good for you as well. In fact, they are high on the list of superfoods.

Why are Raspberries a Superfood?

A superfood is any food that promotes both weight control overall health. They contain a high number of nutrients that fight diseases and make you full without eating a lot so you don’t take in a lot of calories. Superfoods are also simple to work into meals each day.

Oriental medicine has used raspberries as a cure for anemia.

Raspberries fit all the traits of a superfood. Some of the nutrients they contain include high levels of vitamin C and manganese. In fact, a cup of raspberries a day will give you 50 percent of the daily value of each of these. They also contain the most fiber of any fruit.

One of the biggest qualities of a superfood is that they contain antioxidants. Raspberries are high in anthocyanin flavonoids, meaning that they are dense with antioxidants.

Use in Homeopathic Medicine

Traditionally, there are many uses for raspberries as cures for illnesses and conditions. The Chinese have used them for years to cleanse the toxins from the kidneys and the liver as well as the urinary tract. Oriental medicine has used it as a cure for anemia.

The tannins in the leaves of the raspberry plant can help relieve gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. These same astringent properties can be used to treat sore throat and sores in the mouth. These properties also make the leaves suitable for helping to cure acne, dermatitis, and itching skin.

The Health Benefits of Eating Raspberries

The wonders of antioxidants are a hot topic when it comes to improving health these days. Raspberries contain hundreds of the anti-aging properties of antioxidants. No one has been able to find any reason why you can’t eat as many raspberries as you want every day to take full advantage of these antioxidants.

There are thousands of enzymes in the body that require vitamin C, so the fact that you can get one-half the recommended amount in one cup of raspberries is exciting. The high manganese levels balance estrogen levels and are also good for the metabolism.

Raspberries are 20 percent fiber. Fiber is good for lowering cholesterol, can keep you regular. And can fight off fatigue. Fiber also triggers the growth of the good kinds of bacteria that are needed in the gastrointestinal system.

There are also nutrients in raspberries that can aid in fighting cancer or preventing it. There is a plenty of iron, folic acid, and copper in the berries that can help prevent certain anemias.

Basic Growing Requirements

Many people in this country believe that the best raspberries come from the Pacific Northwest. But raspberries will do fine anywhere that doesn’t have extremely cold temperatures and in spots where they will get a lot of sun and one to two inches of water a week.

Raspberry cereals, smoothie, powerbar…

Since it seems that eating raspberries takes care of a lot daily requirements for nutrients and are so beneficial as a superfood, finding different and fun ways to get them into your diet seems like a good idea.

You can’t go wrong with popping them in your mouth a few at a time straight from the carton.
Putting them in your morning cereal is always a good idea.
Use them as the main part of a morning smoothie:

½ cup of raspberries

1 banana

1 cup of organic apple juice

½ cup of water

You can even make your own raspberry breakfast bars. Between the raspberries and the oats, wheat flour, wheat germ, and walnuts that are in these, what better way to start of the day in a healthy way?

Another cool smoothie with peaches and raspberries: