Category: Food
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Not All Fish Should Remain in the Sea
Fish are a popular protein source worldwide. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, most fish species are known to be anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Fish can provide many trace nutrients such as iodine, selenium, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, vitamin D, etc. Eating fish as a regular part of your diet helps support overall health in several ways.…
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An Apple a Day…
During the fall months, one fruit rises above the rest. Apple, scientifically known as Malus pumila or Malus domestica, is one of the most sought-after fruits in the world. Beverages and foods made from or containing apples are an estimated 10 billion dollar global industry. This includes wines, ciders, vinegars, apple chips, apple fritters, applesauce, apple pie, etc.…
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Tomatoes, The Rainbow Fruit
Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are a prominent member of the nightshade family. These vibrantly colored fruits are best when eaten ripe, but a small amount of green tomatoes can also be well-tolerated. The fruit can be red, yellow, orange, pink, burgundy, and black. With this rainbow of colors, the flavor of the tomato changes slightly with…
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Cucumbers and the Art of Skincare
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is farmed worldwide as a seasonal crop. Native to India, cucumber is a fruit found growing wild in the Himalayas. Cucumbers are composed mostly of water and contain trace minerals and vitamin C. Used in Asian cultures as medicine, it can support a healthy blood sugar and cholesterol as well as prevent constipation. It…
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The Benefits of Blueberries
Blueberries are a perennial plant that grows only in highly acidic, well-drained, but moist soils, preferring areas with cooler climates. There are two main variants: Vaccinium corymbosum (highbush) and Vaccinium angustifolium (lowbush). Native to North America, this entire plant was used by Native Americans as medicine and the berries as a fabric dye. These velvety blue fruits, loaded with…
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A Superfood for Men
Pumpkin seeds from the Cucurbita moschata, Cucurbita pepo, and Cucurbita maxima species, are more than just a fun food to eat in the fall. Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, can be a very healthy addition to the average diet. One ounce of pumpkin seeds contains nearly 9 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber as well as…
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Snack Healthier with Almonds
In general, nuts are considered a healthy snack, but almonds (Prunus dulcis) are still one of the best choices. A serving of almonds has more fiber and protein while containing fewer calories when compared to other nuts. One serving of almonds is approximately 1 ounce or 23 almonds. Almonds have several nutrients including magnesium, calcium,…
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Barbarian Food – Rhubarb
Despite being more unfamiliar nowadays, rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) has been used as medicine for over 5,000 years. Introduced to the Romans by barbarians, its Latin name reflects some of rhubarb’s history. This plant has stalks like celery in varying colors from red to pink to pale green. It has a sour taste; typically sweeteners are…
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America’s Nut – Pecans
Did you know the United States is the leading producer of pecans in the world? Carya illinoinensis, more commonly known as pecans, is the only type of nut native to the Americas. The United States grows nearly 80% of the world’s harvest. Grown in the southern states, pecans were prized by Native Americans due to a…
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Love and Chocolate
February is considered the month of love around the United States, so thoughts can naturally go to chocolate. It’s typical for the average person to give a small gift, perhaps chocolate, to their partner. Theobroma cacao, also known as cocoa or cacao, has been used for over 5,000 years due to its many health benefits. These…