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Articles

Tips

Creating The Ultimate Summer Salads

The summer season offers up a beautiful bounty of some of the most flavorful and nutritious fruits and vegetables. With such a plethora of fresh produce to choose from, salads are a quick, simple and satisfying way to experience a wide variety of summer’s finest foods. Whether you love them tossed, chopped or layered, for an energizing lunch, complementary side dish, or light supper, deciding what delicious ingredients to use for your salad is part of the fun! When you get creative, make healthy choices, and combine a variety of colors, tastes and textures, you can enjoy spectacular salads all summer long.

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Tips

Foods That Can Help Ease Allergy Symptoms

Spring can be a difficult time of year for those who suffer from seasonal allergy symptoms. When the body overreacts to things in the air that don't cause problems everyone, such as dust or pollen, it is an allergy. This overreaction can cause symptoms such as watery eyes, a runny nose, sneezing, itching and pressure in the nose and cheeks.

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Tips

Have A Healthy Picnic

Picnic season is upon us! The next time you’re packing up your basket for a meal that celebrates not only the beautiful weather, but the freshest foods of the season, consider including nutritious classics along with some healthier alternatives to traditional picnic favorites. Your outdoor feast will be full of flavor, and you’ll feel healthy, energized, refreshed, and ready to enjoy your outdoor environment.

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Tips

Hit The Hay!

Tips For Keeping Hay Fever At Bay

The season of spring is a special time of year. Houses are cleaned from top to bottom, barren trees and shrubs bloom with leaves and flowering buds, and dry lawns once again become carpets of tender green grass. We welcome the season with spring-cleaning, and celebrate it by spending time outdoors, enjoying the beauty of Mother Nature as the earth awakens from its winter slumber.

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Sustainable Eating

Buying and Eating Local:

Are You Up to the Challenge?

When it comes to sustainable eating and buying and eating local foods, community advantages are numerous and prosperous. Buying and eating locally grown foods help build more self-sufficient food economies where the sustainable food production, processing, distribution and consumption are taken into consideration to promote the economic, environmental and social health of a specific place. It is a part of the sustainability movement on a broader scale.

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Sustainable Eating

Hot Off the Grill!

In-Season Summer Fruits and Vegetables

One of the greatest joys of summertime is the act of barbecuing, and most everyone has a favorite grilled food that they look forward to indulging in. When it comes to sustainable eating and grilling, options for the grill are endless. With a cornucopia of in-season fruits and vegetables, you can cook a table-full of vegetarian entrees, side dishes and desserts right on the grill. And, eating seasonal produce helps cut down on carbon emissions that are produced by oil-drinking boilers that are used to heat greenhouses and by power plants used to keep things frozen.

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Sustainable Eating

What is Sustainable Eating?

Today, more than ever, the word sustainability is heard on a regular basis. Sustainability, simply put, means to keep going, to supply with food, drink and other necessities in life.

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Special Lifestyles & Diets

Dairy-Free Lifestyle

For people who are allergic to dairy products, or who are lactose intolerant, a dairy-free diet is crucial to one's well being.

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Special Lifestyles & Diets

Gluten-Free Lifestyle

Gluten, made from the proteins gliadin, glutenin and others, exists with starch in the endosperms of some grass-related grains - notably barley, rye and wheat. Gliadin and glutenin comprise about 80% of the protein contained in wheat seed.

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Special Lifestyles & Diets

Low-Fat Lifestyle

Low-fat diets are followed for many reasons, such as weight loss and/or weight maintenance and for the prevention of some diseases like cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease.

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Special Lifestyles & Diets

Low-Salt Lifestyle

For people with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease and other medical problems, a low-salt diet may be beneficial and is often prescribed by physicians.

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Special Lifestyles & Diets

Sugar Free and Low Sugar Lifestyle

Sugar, once considered a luxury that only the wealthy could afford, comes in many forms and is used in many ways. For many people, a low sugar or sugar free diet is either necessary or desired.

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Special Lifestyles & Diets

Vegetarian Lifestyle

Vegetarians build their diets around plant foods, but did you know that there are several types of vegetarian classifications? Lacto-ovo vegetarians consume dairy foods and eggs, but no fish, meat or poultry; Pesco-vegetarians include fish into their diets; and Vegans are strict vegetarians who do not eat any animal products, including dairy products, eggs and honey.

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Healthy Entertaining

Healthy Holiday Hors D’oeuvres

Celebrate The Season With These Festive & Flavorful Favorites

 

 

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Healthy Entertaining

Super Snacks

With Fresh Fruits & Veggies, Everybody Wins!

Hosting a game day gathering? Give your guests a winning spread that shines the spotlight on avocados and other fresh fruits and vegetables. Offering great taste—and great health benefits—avocados are a flavorful, healthy addition to your football watching festivities. 

 

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Healthy Eating & Entertaining

Healthy Summer Snacks

Convenient Ways To Curb Your Hunger!

Days are longer and the kids are out of school for the summer, which means it’s more important than ever to have plenty of fun, healthy and easy snacks on hand. Staying hydrated and energized during the summertime is crucial. Fuel-up this summer with plenty of water and some quick snacks that are good for your schedule—and good for your body. These nutrient-rich munchies are easy to prepare and enjoy, which means more time for you to soak up the summer!

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Healthy Eating & Entertaining

Lemons and Limes

The Stars of Summertime Citrus

Although they're available in markets throughout the year, lemons and limes reach their peak of perfection during the summer season, lending their lip-puckering flavor and bright, acidic zing to everything from refreshing lemonade to grilled seafood.

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Healthy Eating & Entertaining

The What, Why and Where of Anthocyanins

When popping a sweet, juicy strawberry into your mouth, have you ever wondered about the brilliant red color of it? What makes blueberries so blue, or red raspberries so red? The answer lies in antioxidant flavonoid compounds that lend color to fruits, plants and vegetables: plant pigments. One group of these coloring compounds is known as anthocyanins, and they are found in flowers, fruits, leaves, roots and stems.

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Healthy Eating & Entertaining

To Her Health!

Celebrate Mother's Day With Fresh & Healthy Morning Favorites

Treating Mom to a special meal in honor of Mother's Day is a favorite holiday tradition that lets her know how much she is loved and appreciated. This Mother's Day, honor her with a relaxing breakfast or brunch that is not just delicious, but healthy too. By highlighting the freshest foods of the spring season, and showcasing delicious, nutrient-rich favorites, you can lighten up the morning, and get her special day off to a fantastic start.

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Healthy Eating

5 Super-Healthy Snacks

Curb Your Hunger With These Nutritious Noshes!

A sweet, low-calorie source of fiber and vitamin C, and believed to help promote healthy aging, blueberries are a treat you can feel great about indulging in. Pack them for a snack, or enjoy them as part of a nutritious breakfast; sprinkled over oatmeal, whole grain pancakes or yogurt, they’re simply sensational. 

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Healthy Eating

A Fresh Start

Tasty Tips for a Happy, Healthy 2009

During the cold days of winter, it’s easy to head towards hearty, heavy comfort foods when hunger strikes, often at the exclusion of fresh produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables, however, are a perfect choice when you’re craving something satisfying, as they’re full of flavor and can help keep you full in between meals. Your morning meal is the ideal time to enjoy your first fruits and veggies of the day. Berries are fantastic sprinkled over hot cereal, yogurt or granola, while vitamin-C rich citrus fruits are great for fresh squeezed juices. Diced tomato, mushrooms, bell pepper, onion and avocado are also outstanding in omelets! With so many delicious varieties to choose from, it’s easy to enjoy at least five servings of fresh fruits and veggies a day. Snack on an apple, banana or orange, add fresh vegetables to a hearty soup, stew or casserole, or enjoy a salad alongside every meal.

 
Go for the Grains
 
High in fiber and a great source of antioxidants, whole grains taste great, and can help keep you healthy. By replacing refined-grain products with wholegrain products, you can easily increase your daily wholegrain intake. Studies show that unrefined whole grains may help lower blood cholesterol and protect against heart disease, obesity and more. And getting plenty of whole grains is incredibly simple to do. Savor wholegrain bread in sandwiches, for your morning slice of toast, or as a dinnertime side dish, and get ready to enjoy the many delicious benefits that whole grains can bring.
 

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Healthy Eating

A Healthier Twist

On A Lunchtime Classic: Chicken Salad

 With just a little creativity and a few fresh ingredients, it can be easier than you think to lighten up your favorite dishes and satisfy your cravings. Full of flavor and texture, creamy chicken salad is a tried and true lunchtime favorite that can easily receive a healthier twist, without compromising on flavor.

 

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Healthy Eating

A Healthy Mind & Body

How The Foods You Eat Can Influence The Way You Think

Along with plenty of water, these tasty foods are important for a well-balanced diet. Morning, noon or night, they’re some of the best for your body—and your brain!

 
Breakfast
 
Eggs
Fresh blueberries
Whole grain bread with peanut butter
 
Why?
 
Choline, an essential nutrient found in eggs and peanut butter, is believed to help increase the rate signals are both sent, and received by, the brain; it can help make you more alert, increase levels of concentration, and enhance memory. 

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Healthy Eating

Apricots & Almonds

A Sensational Spring Combination

  

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Healthy Eating

Calling All Chocolate Lovers!

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth & Enjoy the Benefits of Antioxidants

 An indulgent piece of dark chocolate offers more than a treat for your taste buds. It is a source of beneficial antioxidants, the vitamins, nutrients and minerals that protect cells from destructive molecules called free radicals. The damage to cells caused by free radicals are believed to contribute to the development of a number of conditions and diseases, ranging from certain types of cancers, to arthritis, to infections caused by a weakened immune system. Because antioxidants can help repair cell damage and prevent some of the damage from occurring in the first place, they are crucial for good health.

 

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Healthy Eating

Eggs-traordinarily Delicious!

Make a Mouthwatering Morning Meal with Eggs & Fresh Produce

Fruits and vegetables are an essential part of any balanced breakfast, and with a light and healthy egg dish as your main course, it’s easier than ever to incorporate fresh produce into the menu. Whether you like them scrambled or made into an omelet or frittata, eggs are a versatile source of protein that match up well with a wide variety of fresh ingredients that are low in fat and calories, and high in flavor and nutrition.

Adding colorful and nutritious veggies to your eggs makes for a dish that is satisfying, healthy and delicious, with layers of color, texture and flavor that keeps eating well interesting. Vegetable omelets and frittatas are sophisticated, simple, and perfect for a lightened up springtime breakfast or brunch. These traditional dishes can easily take on a healthy twist when you turn to the produce department for your ingredients, as opposed to higher-fat foods like cheese or breakfast meats.
 
Eggs are a source of many important vitamins, minerals and nutrients, one of which is choline, a nutrient that is important for brain health and function—perfect for the start of your day! And with the addition of vegetables, eggs become even more beneficial. Try incorporating one (or a combination!) of these healthy ingredients into your favorite egg recipe:
 
Bell Peppers—Spice things up a bit by adding diced bell peppers to your favorite egg dish. Bell pepper is an excellent source of vitamins C and A, and also contains vitamin B6 and folic acid.
 
Onion—Add some diced onion to scrambled eggs or a veggie frittata or omelet. Packed with flavor, onions contain a particular antioxidant that demonstrates beneficial anti-inflammatory activity.
 
Rosemary—Wonderfully aromatic and flavorful, rosemary has a rich taste that is also wonderful with diced, roasted potatoes and eggs. It can help increase circulation, stimulate the immune system, and improve concentration. You’re ready for the day ahead!
 
Tomatoes—Ripe and juicy diced tomatoes add bursts of color and flavor to egg dishes. Plus, tomatoes contain lycopene, a carotenoid that is believed to have cancer-preventing properties.
 
Make the meal complete with a bunch of grapes, a handful of berries or some sliced banana, and you have a delicious, balanced breakfast that will keep you satisfied, and get your day off to a stellar start.

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Healthy Eating

Fresh Asparagus

Take a Taste of Spring

 The arrival of spring marks the arrival of asparagus season! With its uniquely delicate flavor and tender texture, asparagus has been regarded as a delicacy since ancient times. Originating in the eastern Mediterranean region, it’s believed that asparagus was cultivated in ancient Egypt, and was used for both culinary and medicinal purposes in ancient civilizations. Today, it is cultivated in many temperate and subtropical regions around the globe. At its peak during the spring season, it is the perfect complement to an array of dishes and cuisines, adding an elegant, impressive touch to any menu.

 
From the Persian word “asparag” (meaning “a sprout”) asparagus brings more to the table than just a distinctive flavor and succulent texture. Asparagus is packed with nutrients, making it a seasonal specialty you can feel great about indulging in. Asparagus is a source of folate, which is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system, as well as vitamins K, C and A. Asparagus is also low in sodium, and contains potassium, which helps keep nerves and muscles properly functioning.
 
Steamed, roasted, boiled or grilled, asparagus cooks up light and satisfying, making it sensational for fresh and flavorful springtime meals. It is fantastic cooked for any meal, anytime of day. Asparagus is delicious in a fresh vegetable omelet for a hearty, healthy breakfast, and is sensational added to a spring salad at lunchtime. Freshly cooked pasta tossed with heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil and chopped asparagus is terrific for dinner, and asparagus is also the perfect side dish for an entrée course of chicken, seafood or beef. 
 
Matching incredibly well with the fresh flavors of lemons, mushrooms, parsley, crab, rosemary, shallots, eggs and garlic, this quintessential vegetable of spring can be creatively enjoyed all season long. 

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Healthy Eating

Fresh Herbs

The Benefits of Basil

The secret to well-flavored, well-seasoned dishes often lies in the utilization of fresh herbs. Healthy and delicious, herbs are a fantastic way to add flavor—and not a lot of fat or calories—to a wide range of palate-pleasing recipes.

 
One of the most popular herbs is basil, a flavorful, aromatic green herb that is commonly used in Thai and Mediterranean cuisines. Blended with pine nuts, heart-healthy olive oil and Parmesan cheese, basil serves as the primary ingredient in pesto, a brightly colored, vibrantly flavored, wonderfully fragrant fresh sauce that is sensational with everything from grilled salmon to whole wheat pasta.
 
And basil is an herb you can feel great about enjoying. Through its concentration of carotenoids like beta-carotene, basil contains nutrients believed to help protect certain cells from free radical damage. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, caused in part by free radical damage, may be less severe when foods containing beta-carotene are enjoyed.
 
Here are some other beneficial vitamins and nutrients found in this fragrant and flavorful herb:
 

·      Calcium—For strong, healthy bones, calcium is a must, and it can be found in basil and spinach, two great ingredients for delicious, healthy green salads. Add some juicy tomatoes (they’re a tasty source of vitamin C!) and a splash of healthy homemade vinaigrette and you’ve got a salad that’s full of color, nutrients and great taste.

 

·      Iron—Basil is a source of iron, which plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Iron also helps the body produce energy, and plays a key role in the distribution of oxygen throughout the body.

 

·      Magnesium—A necessity for strong bones, magnesium also helps with blood circulation, and the relaxation of muscles and nerves.

 

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Healthy Eating

Fresh Herbs

Delightful, Delicious Dill

 The secret to well-flavored, well-seasoned dishes often lies in the utilization of fresh herbs. Healthy and delicious, herbs are a fantastic way to add flavor—and not a lot of fat or calories—to a wide range of palate-pleasing recipes.

 

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Healthy Eating

Fresh Herbs

Wonderful Rosemary

 The secret to well-flavored, well-seasoned dishes often lies in the utilization of fresh herbs. Healthy and delicious, herbs are a fantastic way to add flavor—and not a lot of fat or calories—to a wide range of palate-pleasing recipes.

 
Rosemary is believed to help with concentration, and contains compounds that can be useful for increasing circulation and improving digestion. Rosemary is also a source of dietary fiber, iron and calcium. Dietary fiber is crucial for digestive health, while iron helps the body produce energy; calcium is key for healthy, strong bones and properly functioning nerves and muscles. And this healthful herb is also fantastic when used to enhance the flavor of a variety of nutritious foods that are terrific for a balanced diet, including:
 

·      Green beans—an excellent source of vitamin K, which helps bones stay strong

·      Chicken—a versatile favorite, and an excellent source of lean protein

·      Lamb—a delicious source of zinc, which helps keep the immune system properly functioning

·      Potatoes—hearty and satisfying, and an important source of nutrients like vitamin C, as well as phytonutrients

·      Turkey—a tasty source of selenium, which can help protect cells from free-radical damage

 
Historically, rosemary was regarded as an herb that could help strengthen ones memory. Early on, it was also used to help treat ailments of the nervous system. Today, this fragrant, distinctively pungent herb continues to be prized for its health benefits and the extraordinary way it enhances a range of foods, from fresh vegetables, flavorful breads and egg dishes, to soups, stews and hearty meats and poultry.

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Healthy Eating

Fresh Herbs

Say yes to Oregano

The secret to well-flavored, well-seasoned dishes often lies in the utilization of fresh herbs. Healthy and delicious, herbs are a fantastic way to add flavor - and not a lot of fat or calories - to a wide range of palate-pleasing recipes.

This staple of Italian cooking has the highest antioxidant level of 39 different types of common kitchen spices, and it is believed to be one of the most antioxidant dense of all foods – even blueberries! Antioxidants play a key role in repairing and preventing cellular damage, and a diet rich in antioxidants may slow signs of aging, and reduce risk for various types of cancer.

Because it is so antioxidant rich, a little oregano really goes a long way nutritionally. Here are a few flavorful suggestions for adding oregano to your daily diet:

Salads: Sprinkle dry or fresh oregano into pasta salads and potato salads. For green salads, add oregano directly to the salad dressing.

Soups: Oregano adds a little kick to all kinds of soups. Whether your soup is canned or homemade, adding a dash of oregano will enhance the flavor and the nutrition!

Grilled meats: Oregano complements all types of meat: beef, pork, chicken, lamb, even fish! Make an easy seasoning for any grilled food by combining olive oil, crushed garlic, lots of oregano, and a dash of pepper.

Sandwiches: Surprise your family with a delicious herb-seasoned mayonnaise. It is especially delicious with roast beef, but it can make any sandwich taste gourmet!
 

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Healthy Eating

Frozen Veggies, Fresh From The Freezer

Convenient To Cook & Great For A Healthy Diet!

During the winter, incorporating the proper amount of fruits and vegetables into your daily diet can be a bit of a challenge. Full of flavor, vitamins, minerals and nutrients, produce is an essential element of any well-balanced lifestyle. And with frozen vegetables, it’s easy to enjoy the fresh flavor and many health benefits of veggies, all year long. Unlike fresh fruits and vegetables, which lose some of their nutrients during the time it takes for them to be transported from farm to grocery store to your kitchen table, frozen vegetables are typically frozen within a few hours of being picked.

 

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Healthy Eating

Go Green

With Crunchy & Colorful Cabbage

 

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Healthy Eating

Have A Healthier Holiday

With Five Thanksgiving Favorites

Cranberries are fantastic prepared with other fruits for a fresh, flavorful relish; steamed green beans can be served as a healthy alternative to traditional green bean casserole; and potatoes are great savored with olive oil and a garnish of freshly chopped chives. Baked sweet potatoes add color and flavor to the meal—and taste so delicious, you won’t even miss the brown sugar or marshmallows so often included in recipes for candied yams. And turkey, the satisfying centerpiece of the feast, is an excellent source of lean protein! With just a few subtle adjustments to these naturally nutritious foods, it’s easy to have a Thanksgiving table laden with healthier alternatives full of flavor, and tradition.

 
Cranberries
 

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Healthy Eating

Healthy Hydrators

Ways To Stay Refreshed, Energized & Hydrated

There’s no denying it: consuming sufficient amounts of water every day is an absolute imperative for good health. As the principal chemical component of the human body, water is needed to keep every system of the body functioning properly.

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Healthy Eating

Multi-Purpose Pumpkins!

The Many Benefits Of This Favorite Fall Fruit

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Healthy Eating

Peachy Keen

Pick The Perfect Peaches

 Succulent and sweet, fragrant and juicy, peaches are among the most anticipated of all summer fruits. They are the epitome of summer produce perfection. There’s nothing quite like biting into a sweet and succulent peach, and whether it’s freestone or clingstone, yellow-fleshed or white, a perfectly ripened peach is a true summertime sensation.

 
First cultivated in China and revered as a symbol of longevity, cultivated peaches are divided into two varieties, freestone and clingstone, depending on whether or not the flesh of the fruit sticks to the pit. While both clingstone and freestone peaches can be either white or yellow in color, yellow-fleshed peaches are known to have a sweet taste with a slightly tart tang, while white flesh peaches are typically very sweet, with very little of the acidic flavor that the yellow peaches are more commonly known for.
 
Within the clingstone and freestone categories their lies an array of sweet and succulent peach varieties, each with their own unique qualities in color, flavor and texture. In fact, the blush on the skin of a peach is an indicator of variety—and not ripeness.
 
Smelling the peach is a great way to test for ripeness—it should have a sweet and pleasant aroma when ripe. Squeezing peaches to test for ripeness is never a good idea, as their velvety flesh bruises easily. They should be soft to the touch, but not mushy. To ripen firm peaches, simply place the fruit in a brown paper bag on the kitchen counter for a day or two. Low in calories, free of cholesterol and a good source of beneficial vitamins and nutrients like fiber and vitamin A, peaches are the perfect healthy summer snack.
Spectacular for eating out of hand, peaches’ sweet flavors and vibrant, lovely colors make them a delightful addition to a summertime fruit salad. Fill a salad bowl with diced peaches, cantaloupe and watermelon, some juicy halved grapes and some sliced strawberries and you have the makings of an incredibly sweet, incredibly healthy salad that is just bursting with a range of healthy nutrients, from beta-carotene to lycopene. Peaches are also fantastic added to smoothies, or diced and sprinkled over cereal or yogurt for a sunny start to the day. And if you’re looking for an incredible dish to serve alongside dinner, grilled peaches are simply sensational with any savory entrée, and are fantastic served with vanilla ice cream for a simple and sophisticated sweet summer treat.
 

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Healthy Eating

Pineapple Paradise

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With A Guilt Free Treat!

 Craving something sweet? Indulging in a piece of fresh fruit is the perfect way to go. Sweet and juicy, fruit can satisfy your hunger—and your sweet tooth—while offering a variety of beneficial vitamins and nutrients.

 

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Healthy Eating

Salads For The Season

Healthy Fall Favorites

During the warmest months of the year, when juicy berries in every shade of red and blue are bursting with sweet ripeness, and cool, crisp greens are sensationally light and satisfying, summer salads are enjoyed morning, noon and night. Whether it’s a colorful fruit salad served alongside breakfast, lettuces tossed in flavorful vinaigrette for lunch, or a beautiful salad savored as a starter, side dish or main course, salads are a favorite of the season.

 

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Healthy Eating

Satisfying Salads

Dress your greens deliciously

A green salad can be a very healthy meal – if you don’t overdo it on the dressing!
In an effort to keep our salads healthy, many of us turn to fat-free dressings. While these dressings tend to be lower in calories, they do not offer much in terms of nutrition or flavor, and they leave us feeling unsatisfied.

Why not make your own dressing, filled with heart healthy olive oil, nutritious garlic, and antioxidant rich herbs like thyme and oregano?  You still will want to avoid drowning your salad in dressing, but at least you will be able to embrace a full-flavored, full-fat dressing knowing that it is good for you.

Making your own salad dressing is easier than you think. Start with a base recipe of 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup vinegar, and 3 tablespoons of water. Add your favorite herbs and seasonings.

Change the recipe using a different type of vinegar, or even try substituting part or all of the vinegar and water for lemon juice or orange juice. Once you have the ratios down, you can get creative. Make it extra easy by purchasing a cruet that already has the measurements marked. You can find one in the salad dressing aisle.

Here are a few delicious recipes to get you started:

Red Wine Vinaigrette
1 small clove garlic, crushed
1 teaspoon finely minced shallot
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons water


Asian Sesame Citrus Dressing
1 small clove garlic, crushed
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons orange juice

To make your dressings, put all ingredients in a jar and shake until well combined. Your dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to one month.
 

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Healthy Eating

The Incredible Artichoke

A Spring Delicacy

In certain respects, the artichoke might be regarded as the vegetable equivalent of lobster: it’s somewhat labor-intensive eating, but well worth the effort! The fleshy, succulent, flavorful artichoke heart, which, like the lobster's tail, is often considered the tastiest morsel, takes some time to reach, but getting to it is half the fun!
 
The artichoke has always been considered a delicacy, and was first popularized by Catherine d’Medici. Although it is harvested year round, the artichoke crop peaks in the spring—from March through May—and then again (though to a lesser extent) in October.
 
This is the perfect time of year to enjoy this quirky looking veggie, loved for its distinctive appearance and deliciously nutty flavor. As tasty as they are, artichokes are good for you too. Low in calories and sodium, they are free of fat, saturated fat and cholesterol, and contain vitamin C, folate, dietary fiber and magnesium.
 
Festive, delicious and nutritious, the artichoke is the quintessential springtime starter or side dish. Artichokes can be boiled, steamed or cooked in the microwave, and the edible, fleshy bases of the leaves and the prized heart of the artichoke are delicious dipped into fresh lemon juice, or healthy plain yogurt flavored up with curry powder or fresh herbs. Artichoke hearts lend delicious zing to chicken dishes, salads, pasta, pizzas and appetizers, and are also fantastic diced and mixed into an omelet with fresh mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, health breakfast. Artichokes also match well with fresh and healthy favorites like basil, goat cheese, cumin, fennel, onions, parsley, thyme and tomatoes!

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Healthy Eating

The Joys and Benefits of Seasonal Eating

As the seasons come and go one thing is for certain when it comes to eating fresh, seasonal produce—the taste just can’t be beat. And, when produce is at its freshest, the nutrient content is higher. If you’ve never made a fresh tomato gazpacho in August when tomatoes are at their peak, or have used sweet Vidalia onions to top your grilled burger in the month of June, when Vidalia’s take center stage, you’re missing out on some serious flavor. Long, long ago, before travel allowed for the shipment of out-of-season produce across the country, eating seasonal produce was a necessity. Those necessities created some favorite traditional dishes such as corn on the cob in late summer, pumpkin pie in the fall, potato soup in the winter, and radishes on salad during springtime. Eating seasonal is not only great for the freshest tasting produce possible; it also carries on beloved food traditions.

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Healthy Eating

The Skinny On Healthy Fats

...And How To Enjoy Them

When it comes to keeping the body healthy and properly functioning, fat is an essential nutrient, one that helps protect vital organs, provides energy, maintains the health of skin and hair, and more. And for optimum health, it’s also important to choose healthier unsaturated fats over saturated or trans fats, and to enjoy these healthier fats in moderation, as too much fat—or too much of certain types of fat—can be harmful to the body.

 

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Healthy Eating

The What, Why and Where of Antioxidants

Chances are, you hear and see the word ‘antioxidant’ on a regular basis. On television and radio commercials, and on food packages found throughout grocery stores, the word ‘antioxidant’ has become an important word when it comes to our health. Have you ever found yourself asking, “What are antioxidants?”

Antioxidants are nutrients found in foods that are capable of preventing or slowing oxidative damage to our bodies. Some antioxidants include vitamins A, C and E, and phytochemicals such as flavonoids, lycopene and lutein. When the cells in our bodies use oxygen, they naturally produce by-products called ‘free radicals’ which can cause damage. Antioxidants scavenge for free radicals, preventing damage and repairing damage done by them. Some health problems associated with oxidative damage include cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and macular degeneration.

Foods that are rich in antioxidants include:

•    Blueberries – Despite their small size, blueberries pack a big nutritional punch with antioxidants that may help your body fight everything from the effects of aging, to vision problems, to cancer. Blueberries are a good source of dietary fiber and a very good source of vitamins C, K and manganese.
•    Carrots – Carrots’ antioxidant compounds help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer, and also promote good vision, especially night vision. Carrots are a good source of vitamins C and E, and are a very good source of dietary fiber and vitamins A, K and manganese.
•    Cherries – Not only does this ruby-red fruit taste great, ongoing research shows that tart cherries may relieve the pain of arthritis and gout. That’s because tart cherries are bursting with antioxidants. Cherries are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C.
•    Cranberries – Scientists found that cranberry extract contains the antioxidants anthocyanin, proanthocyanidins and phenolic compounds that are known for their anti-cancer properties. Fresh cranberries are very high in vitamin C.
•    Green Tea – Green tea is among one of the world’s healthiest beverages. In recent years, it has been the focus of much scientific study. The health benefits of drinking green tea may include reduced risk for coronary heart disease thanks to green tea’s high concentration of antioxidants. Green tea offers the powerful antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).

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Healthy Eating

Winter Produce

From A-Z

 

 
 The coldest months of the year bring forth a variety of healthy and delicious winter fruits and vegetables. For side dishes, snacking, or as ingredients in your favorite cool weather classics, these produce picks, at their peak of freshness and flavor, are perfect for healthy eating.
 
 
Oranges
 

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Health And Wellness

Calcium

The What, Why, and Where?

One of the most important, and plentiful, minerals in the body is calcium. Calcium allows proper functioning of the heart; builds and repairs bones and teeth; clots blood; helps nerves function; and makes muscles contract. The majority of calcium found in the body is stored in the bones, with the rest in the blood. If the calcium levels in blood drops, then the body will begin to take calcium from the bones. The body needs calcium to function properly, while bones need calcium to be strong and firm.

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Health And Wellness

Getting to the Root of Root Vegetables

Why You Should Not Overlook These Nutritious Veggies

If you are passionate about buying vegetables in season, then fall and winter root vegetables should be on your shopping list for comforting, autumnal cooking. Root vegetables are exactly what their name implies, the [edible] roots of vegetables. Beets, celery root, parsnip, rutabaga, and turnips – each one is a root vegetable, and just a sampling of root vegetables available for consumption.

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Health & Wellness

A Guide To Winter Wellness

How The Foods You Eat Can Help You Feel Your Best

In colder weather, keeping your skin soft and smooth can be a bit of a challenge. It’s also believed that a lack of vitamin B can increase your risk of getting certain skin disorders, including cracked lips and dry skin. The vitamin B complex is made up of several vitamins that work together to help keep your skin healthy. Seafood with a high content of omega-3 fatty acids can also keep your skin well moisturized and soft.

 
Look for vitamin B in foods such as bananas, black beans, chicken breast, fat free dairy products, mushrooms, peanuts and sunflower seeds. When it comes to seafood, certain kinds of fish, like halibut and salmon, are excellent sources of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
 
Dehydration
 
Staying hydrated is absolutely essential; because it is readily available and free of calories, water is your healthiest and best bet, yet other options including tea, juices and sports drinks are also good choices.
 
In addition to drinking sufficient amounts of hydrating beverages, eating foods such as sauces, soups, salads, and fruits and veggies that are full of moisture can really help keep you refreshed, healthy and energized; starchy vegetables, breads and other dense, dry foods are a few to avoid.
 
So drink up! Keep things fun and get creative by adding fresh sprigs of mint or slices of vitamin-C rich winter citrus fruits, including lemon, orange or lime to ice water, or mix it up a little bit with sparkling waters, flavored waters, or mineral waters. Enjoying a glass of chilled water in between meals, and during every meal, is a great way to keep track of your daily water intake.
 
Stress
 
Has a hectic holiday season or jam-packed schedule left you feeling stressed? Stress is caused by a number of factors, and can have a wide variety of physical and emotional effects, ranging from high blood pressure and headaches, to increased anxiety, disorganization or moodiness. What brings stress on, and how the body and brain react to it, is different for everyone. It is important to identify what is causing the stress, and to use the healthy approaches that work best for you, to both prevent and reduce it.
 

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Health & Wellness

Copper

The What, Why and Where?

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Health & Wellness

Healthy Drinking and Eating Habits for Better Sleep

Promoting Sleep with Food and Drink

Getting a good night’s sleep helps rejuvenate the mind and body, and the right foods can help promote this vital function.

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Health & Wellness

Iron

The What, Why, and Where?

Sweet Potato: Because sweet potatoes are rich in beta carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, and are a good source of iron, you should not save these naturally sweet vegetables just for Thanksgiving. When cooking sweet potatoes, leave the skin on—this retains the vitamins, providing you with even more nutrients. Eating just one cup of sweet potatoes offers 50% of the RDA for vitamin C and more than six times the recommended amount of beta carotene.

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Health & Wellness

Lycopene

The What, Why, and Where?

Red Bell Pepper: With its crunchy, mild, sweet flavor, the red bell pepper offers an abundance of nutrients, and it is one of few foods that contain the powerful antioxidant lycopene. Red bell peppers are excellent for stuffing and baking, and are a favorite crudité for party platters. Red bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and a very good source of dietary fiber, folate, and manganese. 

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Health & Wellness

The Fantastic Four

Super-Veggies Abundant in Antioxidants

If want to incorporate more nutrition into your diet, then the next time you’re grocery shopping, head straight to the produce section and pick up these four vegetables that pack a nutritional punch: broccoli, carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes.

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Foods For Healthy Eating

A Guide To Spring Produce

Discover The Health Benefits Of The Season’s Freshest Picks

It is easy to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet when you choose ripe, seasonal produce. When it comes to flavor, freshness and nutritional value, locally grown, peak of the season produce is unsurpassed. The spring season produces a plethora of fruits and vegetables that are popular for their delicious flavors, versatility and exceptional health benefits. Here’s a guide to a few of the favorites:

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Food In The News

Disappearing Honey Bees

Losing the Foods We Love to Eat

With its rich texture and lovely golden hue, honey is a natural sweetener prized for its wonderful flavor and unique composition, making it a deliciously healthy antioxidant and useful antimicrobial agent.

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Food In The News

Low Fat Grilling in the Good Ole Summertime

No doubt about it, summer is the season for barbecuing. It's also the time of year when, for some, watching our waistline is a top priority. If you love barbecued foods but don't want all the bad saturated fats found in foods such as red meat, beef and pork sausages, and butter, good fats can be found in foods such as fish, vegetables and olive oil. And, the intense heat of the grill brings out food's natural flavors; that means that there is no need to overload with calorie-laden butter. If you need to use an oil to keep foods from sticking, choose a monounsaturated one such as olive oil. Monounsaturated fats lower LDL cholesterol while saturated fats raise LDL cholesterol.

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Food In The News

Mad for Melons

A Slice of the Sweet Life

Cool, crisp melons elicit the essence of summer. With their refreshing flavor, cantaloupe, casaba, honeydew and watermelon are thirst-quenching fruits that you can feel great about indulging in. Low in calories, melons contain key vitamins and nutrients.

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Food In The News

The Decline and Abundance of Wild Salmon:

A Balancing Act

Wild Salmon—firm in flesh, rich in oil, almost nutty in taste. All across the United States, from consumers to fish vendors to restaurants, there is no other fish that gets people as excited as the first wild salmon of the season. For people in the Pacific Northwest, grilling the first wild salmon fillet of the season is an obsession and ritual combined into one. Salmon are not only beloved for their flavor and texture; they are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have certain health benefits.

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Articles - Healthy Eating

Have A Healthy School Year

A+ Choices For Nutritious Snacks & Meals

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Articles

Healthy Ways to Help Relieve Stress

Tasty Tips for Stress Prevention

  

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Article

Beta Carotene

The What, Why and Where

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A Healthy Harvest Guide

It’s Time To Enjoy The Nutritious Foods Of Fall

 

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Dislcaimer: The information on this module is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional about your health and the health of others, and before acting upon any recommendation made in this module. Please note that medical information is constantly changing, so some information may be out of date.
   

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