Showing posts with label strawberries. Show all posts
Showing posts with label strawberries. Show all posts

Sunday, 17 April 2016

Are You Eating the Most Pesticide-Contaminated Produce?



Strawberries harness some seriously incredible health powers. The low-sugar, high-fiber, antioxidant-packed berries help reduce arthritis pain, lower your risk of cancer and even provide natural protection from sunburn. Unfortunately, chemical farming threatens all of that powerful strawberry nutrition. A 2016 Dirty Dozen report from Environmental Working Group (EWG) highlights the 12 produce picks most often contaminated with harmful pesticide levels.
This is the first year that strawberries topped the Dirty Dozen list. (Nonorganic apples previously topped the list.) But when you realize that nonorganic farmers use a type of poisonous gas for pre-planting fumigation — and that one strawberry sample is capable of testing positive for 17 different pesticides — it’s clear organic strawberries should be on your shopping list. That’s especially true since Americans eat an average of 8 pounds of fresh strawberries annually.

2016 Dirty Dozen List

EWG uses the latest pesticide residue data from government testing to create a list of fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide loads. It’s important to note that even after being washed or sometimes even peeled, residues levels remained. That’s because many pesticides are systemic, meaning they are taken up inside of the plant, becoming part of the actual fruit or veggie. The most pesticide-contaminated produce items are:
  1. Strawberries
  2. Apples
  3. Nectarines
  4. Peaches
  5. Celery
  6. Grapes
  7. Cherries
  8. Spinach
  9. Tomatoes
  10. Sweet bell peppers
  11. Cherry tomatoes
  12. Cucumbers
EWG also found that nonorganic hot peppers, kale and collard greens contain trace levels of particularly toxic pesticides. Opt for organic versions of these veggies, too.

2016 Dirty dozen graphic - Dr. Axe

2016 Dirty Dozen Key Findings

EWG analyzed 2014 pesticide data from United States Department of Agriculture annual testing. Here are some key takeaways:
  • 98 percent of strawberry samples, peaches, nectarines and apples tested positive for at least one pesticide residue.
  • The average potato had more pesticides by weight than any other produce.
  • A single grape sample and a sweet bell pepper sample contained 15 pesticides.
  • A single samples of strawberries detected 17 different pesticides; the average strawberry tests positive for 5.75 different pesticides.

2016 Clean 15 List

While it’s important to choose organic whenever possible, that may not always be an option. Crunching the same data used to come up with the 2016 Dirty Dozen list, EWG also shares a list of 15 produce items least likely to harbor pesticide residues. (Only 1 percent of avocado samples showed any detectable pesticides.)
  1. Avocados
  2. Sweet corn
  3. Pineapples
  4. Cabbage
  5. Frozen sweet peas
  6. Onions
  7. Asparagus
  8. Mangoes
  9. Papayas
  10. Kiwis
  11. Eggplant
  12. Honeydew melon
  13. Grapefruit
  14. Cantaloupe
  15. Cauliflower
I recommend opting for organic sweet corn and papayas, though, because they are common GMO crops.

Pesticide Health Threats We Can’t Ignore

Our country represents less than 2 percent of the world’s population, but we use 24 percent of its pesticides. The widespread use of these pesticides, combined with the presence in our lives and diets of genetically modified crops, food additives and preservatives, and even household cleaners and beauty products, has created a dangerous toxic load in our bodies that has degraded our gut health and overall immunity.
These are just a few conditions linked to pesticide exposure:
  • ADHD
  • Brain, prostate & other cancers
  • Miscarriage and birth defects
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Intestinal permeability, also known as leaky gut

Final Thoughts on the 2016 Dirty Dozen List
This list should in no way deter you from eating fruits and vegetables. However, it does highlight the dangers of modern chemical farming. Using chemicals to fumigate the soil and kill weeds and bugs has some unwanted side effects, including killing soil health and beneficial microbes.
Pesticides are linked to dozens of health problems, including certain cancers, ADHD, autism, Parkinson’s and a whole host of other issues.
We can’t veggie wash or peel our way out of the problem, since many toxic pesticides are systemic and actually become part of produce. Choose organic whenever possible — organic food is growth without the use of toxic chemical fertilizers and pesticides, human sewage sludge and GMO seeds.
To keep costs down, look for organic foods in season at your local farmer’s market, or try starting a small vegetable garden of your own. Even large grocery store chains are expanding contracts with organic farmers to help meet demand for chemical-free food, meaning your organic options should continue to grow.
Source: http://draxe.com/2016-dirty-dozen/

Tuesday, 1 September 2015

5 Power Foods That Can Help You Drop a Size.



Filling up on these will actually help you lose weight.


Want to lose five pounds the healthy way? Put these five power foods on your plate, and eat your way to a smaller size.
1. Salmon
This rich protein has the power to fill you up, thanks to plenty of healthy fats that also pack metabolism-boosting omega-3's.
2. Cucumbers
More than 90 percent water, cukes are great for beating bloat or when you want a crunchy snack for next-to-no calories.
3. Strawberries
A recent study found that munching on these berries instead of other sweets led people to eat an average of 134 fewer calories at their next meal.
4. Hazelnuts
The smoky nuts are loaded with monounsaturated fats that can help blast belly blub. They also contain ample fiber, folate, and potassium.
5. Eggs
Two have nearly a quarter of the satiating protein you need in a day—one reason research shows that eating eggs in the a.m. = eating less all day long.
Make sure you're also stocked with the following ingredients:
Spinach
Balsamic vinegar
Full-fat Greek yogurt
Fresh dill
Whole-grain Ezekiel bread
Dijon mustard
Apple cider vinegar
Mustard seed
Sugar
Feta
Honey
Now that you're ready to create delicious fat-blasting meals, check out the recipes below!
BREAKFAST
LISA SHIN
Salmon Scramble
Sauté 3 oz sliced raw salmon in 1/2 tsp olive oil until fish is opaque, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add 2 beaten eggs and scramble to desired doneness. Serve with 1 cup spinach drizzled with a mixture of 1 tsp olive oil and 2 tsp balsamic vinegar.
RELATED: Salad for Breakfast? HECK YEAH.
LUNCH
LISA SHIN
Deviled Egg and Cuke Sandwiches
Slice 2 hard-boiled eggs in half. With a fork, mash yolks, 1 tsp Greek yogurt, 1/2 tsp Dijon, and 1 tsp chopped dill. Spoon into egg-white halves. Spread 1 slice Ezekiel bread (crust removed) with Dijon and slice diagonally into 4 pieces. Top each with 2 cucumber slices, 1 piece feta, and deviled egg.
SNACK
LISA SHIN
Quick Pickles
Sprinkle 2 sliced cucumbers with 1/2 tsp salt and let sit for 15 minutes. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp chopped fresh dill, 1/2 tsp mustard seed, and 1 tsp sugar, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes. Cool and pour over cucumbers. Will keep in the refrigerator for 1 week.

DINNER
LISA SHIN
Hazelnut-Crusted Salmon with Strawberry-Cucumber Salad
Mix 2 Tbsp finely chopped hazelnuts with 1 tsp olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Coat a 4-oz salmon fillet with the mixture. Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F until fish is flaky, about 8 to 10 minutes. Fan out 1/4 cup sliced strawberries and 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers on plate, and sprinkle with 1 oz crumbled feta and balsamic vinegar to taste.
DESSERT
LISA SHIN
Nutty Strawberry Yogurt Bark
Mix 1 tsp honey with 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tsp chopped hazelnuts, and 1 chopped strawberry. Spread an even layer in a glass dish and freeze for 3 hours. Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before breaking into bite-size pieces.
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/power-foods-for-weight-loss

Thursday, 9 July 2015

53 Exceptional Super Foods that Burn Fat.



Someone has correctly said – you become what you eat. Your mental and physical health directly or indirectly depends on your diet. If you want to keep your weight under control, then a few changes in lifestyle have to be made. To initiate this process, make your diet wholesome and balanced. Eat something that is a combination of taste and health. Instead of munching on your favorite chocolate bar or pumpkin pie, look for some healthy options. Along with nutritious foods, include exercise in your daily schedule. Acquaint yourself with the super foods that will burn fat by suppressing appetite and boosting your metabolism, thereby helping you get back in the shape.
1. Oats
This fiber-rich food perks up metabolism and makes you feel fuller for longer. Combine oats with yogurt and fruits. Have it in your breakfast.
  • Alternatively, cook oats in milk and add some banana to it. The richness of beta-glucans, a kind of fiber in oats, makes it effective in fortifying your immune system.
2. Oranges
Oranges are loaded with fiber and have very fewer calories. They can be taken in small proportions in place of candies, to satiate the sweet tooth.
3. Spices
Include spices (including mustard seeds, ginger, ginseng, black pepper and turmeric) in your diet. They increase the metabolic rate of the body and burn extra calories.
4. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are the powerhouse of essential nutrients, such as dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium, iron, magnesium, and phytochemicals, like beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, etc. The high amount of dietary fiber in sweet potato takes a long time to digest and thus accelerates metabolism, which, in turn, helps burn more calories and reduces weight.
5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes have got many good things that will help you lose tons of weight.
6. Raspberries
Raspberries are extremely rich in fiber. The water-soluble component of raspberries, known as pectin, lowers the cholesterol levels.
7. Strawberries
This fruit is loaded with fiber and vitamin C. Fiber makes you feel full for longer, and vitamin C keeps the skin healthy. A cup of strawberries has more than the daily recommended dose of vitamin C.
8. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are the storehouse of vital nutrients, like fiber, protein, vitamin B6 and foliate, which play an important role in the formation of new cells and repair of muscles in case of cell rupture. They satiate your hunger instantly and keep you feel full for longer.
9. Pumpkin
A cup of cooked pumpkin contains 3 grams of fiber, vitamin A, C, E, and potassium. The fiber present in pumpkin checks your weight by keeping you feel full for longer. It can be consumed in the form of salad or can be used in the formation of delicious recipes.
10. Almonds
Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids along with other vitamins and calcium. Try a handful of almonds along with a glassful of orange juice. This combination will act as an instant power booster and make you feel full for longer, giving you essential nutrition.
  • Alternatively, almonds can be taken in the form of smoothie with fruits like apple, banana, etc., and milk. All the ingredients together will give you a feeling of fullness and simultaneously improve your health.
11. Grapefruit
It is often called as diet fruit as it lowers the insulin and fat storage hormone that effectively aids in weight loss. If taken along with every meal, grapefruit can help you lose 3-4 pounds in a month.
12. Grapes
A few grapes can act as an instant energy snack. They just have a handful of calories. Grapes are rich in fiber and suppress your appetite for longer; thus, keeping your weight under check.
13. Dark Chocolate
Believe it or not, giving you little treats can be a secret to weight loss. Dark chocolate is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), which, in fact, heal our metabolism and burn the additional fat and calories. Have chocolate as a dessert after dinner. It will curb your cravings for salt and sweet.
14. Popcorn
Popcorns are very high in fiber and low in fat. They contain protein and vitamin B, which make them a power food. You can eat them as an instant snack to satiate your hunger.
15. Yogurt
Try yogurt along with cereals, like corn flakes, wheat or oat flakes. It can also be taken along with apple to satisfy your hunger and control your weight.
16. Hummus
Try a handful of pretzels and a bowl of hummus. It is packed with carbohydrates that will energize you and proteins that will help repair cells after a strenuous workout.
17. Coconut Water
Drink at least 2 glasses of coconut water every day. It helps replenish the body with the daily requirements of electrolytes that often get depleted during fever or vomiting. Alternatively, squeeze a lemon into the coconut water for yummy savor.
18. Cauliflower
Steamed cauliflower or cauliflower soup is affluent in compounds, like glutathione, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps the immune system battle against flu and viral infections. This veggie is also a good option for weight conscious people.
19. Chamomile Tea
Steep some chamomile leaves in water for 5-10 minutes. Strain it and sip it throughout the day after it cools. This super food alleviates the tummy problems, reduces inflammation and helps shed extra flab from your body.
20. Ginger
Ginger acts as a thermogenic agent that boosts up the metabolic rate and enhances satiety to keep your weight under check. You can suck on raw ginger pieces, add it to your food or use it in tea to garner its benefits.
21. Green Tea
Green tea contains catechin along with phytonutrients and antioxidants that enhance the rate of metabolism, thereby supporting in weight loss. To shed your waistline fast, sip at least 5 cups of green tea in a day.
Note: For the best results, do not add any sweetener to it.
22. Quinoa
It can be an alternative to calorie-rich rice and potato. These rank low on the glycemic index and are loaded with vitamins that keep you in the pink, without adding up extra calories.
23. Apple
Certain fruits expedite weight loss along with energizing you. Apples are one of them. They are the rich source of dietary fiber, which gives you feeling of fullness and reduces the cravings in between meals.
Note: Wash your apple properly and do not remove the peel while having it.
24. Beans
Replace carbohydrate-rich foods, like bread and rice with beans. They are rich in fiber, thus facilitate in regulating the blood sugar levels and improving the digestion.
25. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is high in protein content and low in fat. It can lead to high metabolism if combined with strength training.
26. Egg Whites
Include plenty of eggs in your diet, especially in breakfast. A very rich source of protein and unsaturated fatty acids- eggs, are good for health and help maintain optimal weight.
27. Pears
One pear contains 15% of your daily recommended dose of fiber. Varied properties, high water and fiber content, and scrumptious taste make it a super food for reducing your weight.
28. Pine Nuts
Now you have a reason to enjoy your nuts, without any guilt. They have the property of suppressing your appetite because of phytonutrients in them. Have a handful of nuts every time you feel an urge to eat a snack.
29. Lentils
Lentils are fiber-rich foods, low in sugar and high in protein. Also to keeping you energetic and mentally alert, they play a great role in lowering the blood sugar level and losing calories fast.
30. Mushrooms
Next time if you go out for having pizza and opt for mushroom topping instead of pepperoni or sausage; you have more chances of shedding those extra pounds fast. Mushrooms are high in proteins and vitamins, and low in calories.
31. Hot Peppers
Hot peppers help reduce weight. Surprised? Many of us don’t know that hot peppers play a very significant role in burning the extra calories by boosting up the metabolism.
32. Broccoli
Broccoli is best known for its cancer prevention properties. Its fibrous content and 30 calories per serving make it one of the best super foods for cutting down the flab. Spice your broccoli with salt and black pepper and eat it raw, or sprinkle it on soups, salads, and yogurt.
33. Organic Meat
If you relish non-vegetarian food, then the lean organic meat can be a healthy option, as it is less in fat and high in protein. Moreover, it can be easily digested, thus aid in shedding those extra pounds.
34. Cantaloupe
This food is sweet but not high in calories; hence, can be added up as salad dressing, or can be eaten as such. It is rich in fiber and helps in water retention in the body, which, in turn, makes you feel full for longer.
35. Spinach
This vegetable is well-off in fiber, high in vitamins and minerals and helps in water retention. If you are looking forward to losing weight, then replace your high-calorie food with a bowl of spinach.
36. Asparagus
Asparagus is abundant in soluble fiber – inulin, which suppresses hunger and frequent cravings. Besides, it also contains folate and vitamin A. It has the potential to lower the blood sugar levels, stimulate the probiotic growth, regulate the digestive system and manage the body weight.
37. Cinnamon
Cinnamon plays a significant role in regulating the blood glucose level. At least 1 tbsp of cinnamon must be taken along with daily diet to see positive weight loss results.
38. Avocado
Avocado contains oleic acid, a kind of monounsaturated fatty acid, which trims down the additional flab, especially from the belly region. It fights off the free radicals and slows down the digestion.
39. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter satisfies frequent cravings and doesn’t allow them to re-occur, thus keeping a check on your weight.
40. Salmon
Salmon is a kind of lean meat and is loaded with protein, so can be easily considered as a part of healthy diet plan. You can easily replace red meat and other junk food with salmon, which is full of monounsaturated fatty acids and low in calories.
41. Greek Yogurt
It is a healthier form of yogurt with less sugar and higher quantities of protein. It curbs your cravings and supports your digestive system.
42. Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Organic apple cider vinegar stimulates the digestive system and promotes weight loss by suppressing your urges. It must be taken along with distilled water ½ hour before a meal. It will also maintain the pH balance of the body.
43. Olive Oil
Olive oil reduces blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, as it is low in saturated fat. It contains monounsaturated fatty acids that are more satisfying than normal fatty acids present in other edible oils.
44. Turkey Breast
Turkey breast is loaded with protein and is useful for the people who are on diet or practice strength training.
45. Blueberries
Blueberries are best known for their anti-aging properties. They taste amazing and help break down fat and sugar naturally as they are rich in fiber and low in calories.
46. Flax Seeds
The richness of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber in flax seeds help retain water in the body and give you a feeling of fullness. It boosts metabolism and lowers the level of cholesterol in the body.
47. Black Beans
Black beans are a good alternative to rich protein sources, like red meat and fish. They do not contain any saturated fats like other protein sources; hence, are considered as excellent food for weight loss.
48. Brown Rice
Brown rice is rich in fiber and resistant starch (a healthy carbohydrate that helps boost metabolism and burn fat). It is considered as a low-energy-dense food. Since it is low in calories, people who consume brown rice in place of white rice do not gain weight.
49. Wine
Wine is prepared by fermenting grapes, and thus resveratrol (an antioxidant found in grapes) prevents fat storage in the body. A glass of wine equals 90 minutes of workout.
50. Cheese
Cheese contains monounsaturated fatty acids and helps you stay full for a long time. It curbs the urge to eat something.
51. Low-fat Milk
Low-fat milk is low in calories and high in calcium because of monounsaturated fatty acids that help you suppress your hunger for a long time and burn more fats and calories.
52. Pearl Barley
These are rich in starch and low in calories. A ½ cup serving contains just 2 grams resistant starch that is good for burning fat.
53. Beetroot
Beets are the powerhouse of vitamins and minerals and contain zero fat (half cup contains 37 calories). It has low calories and thus helps lose weight.
http://www.homeremedyhacks.com/53-exceptional-super-foods-that-burn-fat/ 

Wednesday, 5 November 2014

Healthy Reasons to Eat Strawberries.




Prevent heart disease

 Strawberries contain essential nutrients such as antioxidants and flavonoids that help prevent bad cholesterol build up that can clog the arteries. Moreover, strawberries boast anti-inflammation properties, which are great for your heart. This is one of the top reasons to eat more strawberries.

Improve memory

If you are trying to improve your memory, consider adding some strawberries to your daily eating plan. They contain fisetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, which stimulates signalling pathways and helps boost your memory. According to a research published in Annals of Neurology, consuming 2 or more servings of strawberries weekly can help delay memory decline in older women.

Boost your immune system

High in Vitamin C, strawberries help boost your immune system and protect you from infections. A cup of strawberries contains 100% of your daily needs of Vitamin C. So make sure you eat enough strawberries during the strawberry season.

Prevent diabetes and constipation

If you have constipation, you should clear your bowel movements by consuming enough fiber. Strawberries are high in fiber and they help control your blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes. Diabetics can eat strawberries without worrying since strawberries have a low glycemic index of 40.

Perfect skin

Strawberries are packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C that help slow down ageing process and keep your skin healthy and wrinkle-free for much longer. Strawberries are also a natural source of salicylic acid, a renowned acne fighter. They are perfect for any homemade face mask.

Prevent cancer

As I mentioned above, strawberries are rich in antioxidants that help prevent cancer. They containantioxidants such as zeathanacins and lutein, which suppress cancer cell growth. The high Vitamin C content helps your immune system fight cancer cells.

Good for your bones

One of the most important reasons to eat strawberries is because they are good for your bones. Strawberries are high in potassium, manganese and a few essential minerals that help promote bone growth and keep them healthy. Therefore, strawberries are good for children.

Help you lose weight

Since strawberries are low in calories (one cup has only 53 calories) they can help you lose weight. Strawberries are high in fiber that helps leave you feeling full longer and help you eat less if you have some strawberries before your meal. Plus, the high Vitamin C content speeds up your metabolism, and helps the body burn more calories quicker.

Prevent hair loss

Strawberries contain folic acid, ellagic acid, Vitamin B5 and Vitamin B6, which help prevent your hair from thinning and falling out. Plus, minerals such as magnesium and copper help prevent fungal growth and dandruff. Home made strawberry hair mask is also great for your hair.

Good for pregnant women

Due to the high folate content, strawberries help in the baby’s brain, spinal cord and skull development. Moreover, strawberries contain folic acid that can save the baby from having some birth defects. If you are pregnant, consider including strawberries into your diet. You baby will thank you. Strawberries boast plenty of amazing benefits and there are many reasons to eat them more. I hope this list helped you to find out something new about strawberries and you will add some to your eating plan. Do you like strawberries?
 http://www.ideadigezt.com/healthy-reasons-to-eat-strawberries/