1. •Freeze Ahead Your Holiday Foods
   

1. •Cleaning Your Kitchen
   

1. •Basic Food Safety
   

1. •Freezing Tips
   

1. •Freezing Tips -2
   

1. •To Chill or Not to Chill

1. ★What Are Blueberries Good For? Dr. Mercola 5/10/17
   

2. ★Blueberries Could Lower Your Blood Pressure: RCT Data 2/2/15
   

Blueberry Fields Forever!

Our Most Popular Tips »

Think berries of the blue variety and your mental brawn could go on and on.

Compounds in this tiny fruit may help protect you from two processes linked to brain-cell aging: inflammation and oxidation. And there's no tastier way to keep your brain keeping on!

Potent Polyphenols
Research shows that polyphenols -- powerful plant-based substances that are abundant in tea, red wine, and blueberries -- have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Why does that matter to your brain? Because both oxidative stress and inflammation appear to play a part in Alzheimer's disease. (Here's another dark-hued berry that may stave off memory decline.)

Brain Builders
Although you can't turn back time, you can take steps to get peak performance from your brain. Start with these options:

•Bend your mind with word games. (Try this word puzzle.)

•Boost your memory with mnemonic techniques. (Here's how to do it.)

•Take your vitamins. (Here's why.)

Feeling Blue?

Try these tasty blueberry treats and your brain will say ahhhhh: Blueberry Crumble and Blueberries with Lemon Cream.

RealAge Benefit: Getting the right amount of antioxidants through diet or supplements can make your RealAge 6 years younger.                

Have you read the ingredient list on packages of many ordinary dried fruits? What’s sugar doing in there? Not here! Just Blueberries is just fruit. Plus tons of natural, good-for-you, protective polyphenols.

1. ★When Buying Grassfed Meat, Look for the AGA Grassfed Label 2/7/17
   

On the upside, the AGA grassfed standards are more comprehensive and more stringent than the AMS standards were. So, to ensure you're actually getting high-quality grassfed beef, be sure to look for the AGA grassfed label on your beef as well as your dairy. No other grassfed certification offers the same comprehensive assurances as the AGA's grassfed label, and no other grassfed program ensures compliance using third-party audits.

Alternatively, get to know your local farmer and find out first-hand how he raises his cattle. Many are more than happy to give you a tour and explain the details of their operation. Barring such face-to-face communication, the AGA grassfed logo is the only one able to guarantee that the meat comes from animals that:

1. •Have been fed a 100 percent forage diet
   

2. •Have never been confined in a feedlot
   

3. •Have never received antibiotics or hormones
   

4. •Were born and raised on American family farms (a vast majority of the grassfed meats sold in grocery stores are imported, and without COOL labeling, there's no telling where it came from or what standards were followed)
   

You are what you eat,

so eat well.

A stupendous insight of civilizations past has now been confirmed by today's investigative, nutritional sciences. They have shown that what was once called "The Doctrine of Signatures" was astoundingly correct. It now contends that every whole food has a pattern that resembles a body organ or physiological function and that this pattern acts as a signal or sign as to the benefit the food provides the eater.

Here is just a short list of examples of Whole Food Signatures.  

Has God Been Giving Us A Clue?

A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye...and YES

science now shows that carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart is red and has four chambers. All of the research shows tomatoes are indeed pure heart and blood food.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows that grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles

or folds are on the nut just like the neo-cortex. We now know that walnuts help develop over 3 dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Cabbage

A better question might be, what isn’t it good for? As one of the most potent medicinal foods available, including cabbage as a regular part of your diet (two or three times a week, or, even better, four or five) may offer many significant health benefits.

Cabbage Has Cancer-Preventing Properties

The George Mateljan Foundation recently highlighted some of the latest news about cabbage and topping the list was its potential for cancer prevention.1 Nearly 500 studies have looked into this connection and revealed that cabbage’s anti-cancer powers are likely related to:

1. 1.Antioxidants
   

2. 2.Cabbage contains powerful antioxidants like vitamins A and C and phytonutrients such as thiocyanates, lutein, zeaxanthin, isothiocyanates and sulforaphane, which stimulate detoxifying enzymes and may protect against breast, colon and prostate cancers.
   
   

3. 3.And much more...
   

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet the body pulls it from the bones, making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.

Eggplant, Avocados and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female -  they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats 1 avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? .... It takes exactly 9 months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit.

There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the motility of male sperm and increase the numbers of sperm as well as to overcome male sterility.

Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.

Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries

Grapefruits, Oranges, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Onions look like body cells. Today's research shows that onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes.

Sent in by Phyllis Singer 4/29/08

1. ★Margarine or Butter
   

                        submitted by Richard Charm

Margarine  was originally manufactured to fatten  turkeys.  When it killed the turkeys, the people who had put  all the money into the research wanted a payback so they put their  heads together to figure out what to do with this product to get  their money back.  It was a white substance with no

food appeal  so they added the yellow coloring and sold it to people ! to use in place of butter.  How do you like it?   They have come out  with some clever new flavorings.    

 DO  YOU KNOW.. the   difference between margarine and butter?   

Read on to the end...gets very interesting!    

Both  have the same amount of calories.

Butter  is slightly higher in saturated fats at 8  grams  compared   to 5 grams.

Eating margarine can increase   heart disease in women by 53%  over  eating

the same amount of butter, according to a recent  Harvard  Medical Study.   

Eating butter increases the absorption of many other nutrients in  other foods.

Butter  has many nutritional benefits where margarine has a few only  because  they are added!

Butter  tastes much better than margarine and it can enhance the flavors of other foods.

Butter  has been around for centuries where margarine has been around for

less than 100 years .

And  now, for Margarine..

Very  high in trans fatty acids .

Triple  risk of coronary heart disease

Increases  total cholesterol and LDL (this is the bad cholesterol) and lowers HDL cholesterol, (the good cholesterol)

Increases  the risk of cancers up to five fold.

Lowers  quality of breast milk.

Decreases immune response.

Decreases insulin response.

And  here's the most disturbing fact.... HERE IS THE PART THAT  IS  VERY

INTERESTING!

Margarine  is but ONE MOLECULE away  from being PLASTIC..    

This  fact alone was enough to have me avoiding margarine for life  and anything else that is hydrogenated (this means hydrogen is  added,  changing the molecular structure of the  substance).    

You  can try this yourself:

Purchase  a tub of margarine and leave it in your garage or shaded  area.

Within a couple of days you will note a couple of things:

 *  no flies, not even those pesky fruit flies will go near it  (that should tell you something)

 *  it does not rot or smell differently because it has no nutritional value ; nothing will grow on it. Even those teeny weeny  microorganisms will not a find a home to grow.  Why?   Because it is nearly plastic  Would you! melt your Tupperware and  spread that  on your toast?   

1. ★ Throw Out-Dated  Pancake Mix
   

WARNING ABOUT Pancake Mix (and other boxed mixes)

Throw away ALL OUTDATED pancake mix you have in your home, PLEASE! If you don't believe me, read this article and then follow the 'Link' to SNOPES. Sorry to be the Grim Reaper of bad news, but I would rather have you ALIVE, besides a $2.00 box of pancake mix is NOT worth your life.

WARNING  CHECK SNOPES: Snopes

Power of Peanut Butter

The heart-healthy unsaturated fats in peanut butter may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease 21% and lower LDL cholesterol 14% according to the researchers at Penn. State U.

1. ★Pass the Butter, Please/ 2/08 Bulletin
   

                            Submitted by Phyllis Singer, 7/6/08 S.D.

Roasted Fresh Vegetables: Get your vitamins, minerals, fiber.
One of the most delicious, nutritious, and down-right good ways to prepare fresh vegetables is to lightly coat them with olive oil and kosher salt, place them on a baking sheet, and pop them in the 400 degree oven for about 20 minutes. Roasting brings out the sweetness and the flavor. Vegetables are a food that all need.

Baked sweet potatoes: These orange colored potatoes are filled with potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and fiber!  A pinch of kosher salt or sea salt, a small drizzle of olive oil, and a shake of cinnamon make baked sweet potatoes a delicious healthy alternative to the more calorically-dense sweet potato casseroles loaded with butter and sugar.

Yogurt Dipped Fruit: Fruit is a good dessert alternative and go right for the nuts. A nice, healthy, easy way to get a little sweetness in your holiday meal is to cut up fresh melon, berries, and grapes and serve it with some plain yogurt that has been sweetened with a little fruit and/or honey or lime juice.

Nuts: Go nuts! Almonds, pecans, peanuts make nice desserts. We like to have a dish of nuts out for parties, especially ones involving kids! Kids love nuts and they are much healthier for them than sugar-coated candies or cookies! They provide Vitamin E and essential fatty acids.

Roast Beef and Turkey: Good quality meats are a must for the holiday meals.  Good proteins to feel your best. Offering roast beef or turkey roll-ups and an interesting mustard dipping sauce make great easy appetizers!

Chicken or pork satays: Chicken or pork on a stick! What a great way to serve proteins! Make them yourself using good quality, organic meats and serve with a Thai dipping sauce or peanut sauce.
 

Eating to Shape Your Self

Follow these rules of basic good nutrition for a mind-body boost.

By: Martina Navratilova | Source: AARP.org | 2009-08-21

1. •Watch Martina: Carbs and Protein—the Dynamic Duo
   

2. •Visit Martina Navratilova's main page
   

3. •AARP Bulletin Today, Health Discovery: Moderate-Protein Diet May Help Keep the Weight Off
   

One of the best ways to love our bodies is through better nutrition—eating mostly lean and natural foods and cutting back on processed, prepackaged meals and snacks. 

If you get used to better nutrition, and pay attention to how it boosts your body and energy level, you will no longer want to eat food that makes you feel lousy. 

How do you choose foods that provide the right nutritional pick-me-up? Use these nutritional guidelines. I’ve based them on how I eat and on what is now widely recommended nutritionally for great health.

1. 1Load up on three or more servings of vegetables daily.
   

As long as you don’t drown them in cream sauces, margarine, or dips, vegetables are low in fat and calories. If you’re not a vegetable eater, start gradually at two servings a day, or at least one fresh vegetable juice a day. One serving is generally one cup raw or one-half cup cooked. Include as many colorful veggies as you can—dark green, red, orange, and yellow. The more colorful the vegetable, the more anti-aging, health-building nutrients it contains. It's also smart eating to enjoy one mixed salad a day, too. 

1. 1Enjoy two to three servings of fruit daily. 
   

Like veggies, fruits contain plenty of nutrients to keep your body on the beam. A serving is generally one piece of fruit or one cup of chopped raw fruit. Including fruit in your diet can help ward off a slew of major diseases. The same cannot be said for Twinkies. If fruit smoothies appeal to you like they do to me, try whirring several of your favorite fruits in a blender, with a little juice, nonfat yogurt, or crushed ice.

1. 1Fuel up with two to three servings of “power carbs” daily.
   

“Power carbs” are so named because they energize the body for exercise and daily life, plus they supply B vitamins, minerals, and plenty of fiber for good digestive health. These carbs include whole grains, whole-grain cereals, whole-grain baked goods, whole-grain pasta, rice, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. A serving is one piece of bread, one-half cup of cereal, grains, or pasta, or one medium potato or sweet potato.

1. 1Include two to three servings of dairy or dairy substitutes daily.
   

These include skim milk, low-fat or nonfat yogurt, low-fat cottage cheese, cheeses, or nondairy milks. If you’re like me and your body doesn’t get along with dairy products, choose alternatives, such as nut- and grain-based milks. To me, these taste better than regular dairy milks anyway, and you can buy them in enriched versions to pump up your nutrition. A serving is one cup, one-half cup of cottage cheese, or one ounce of hard cheese.

1. ★What Is Acai Berry Good For? Plus gives a list of foods and their value - A to Z; a wealth of information
   

2. ★10 Banned Foods Americans Should Stop Eating inforgraphic
   

1. ★Potent Antioxidants in Honey Can Help Destroy Those Pesky Free Radicals
   

1. ★An Apple a Day Can Revitalize Your Love Life: Researchers
   

10 Amazing Reasons to Eat More Apples! )by Marlene Koch, RD (make sure they are organic

October is National Apple Month! I can't think of a better time to shed some light on the wonders of this fabulous fruit. Both delicious and nutritious, apples are a true "superfood" and a great addition to every diet. Here are 10 wonderful reasons why:

1. 1.Apples are free of fat, cholesterol and sodium.
   

2. 2.A medium apple (about 5 ounces), is satisfying, has a mere 80 calories and equals one carbohydrate choice or fruit exchange.
   

3. 3.Apples have a low glycemic index (the rate at which they raise blood sugar). In fact, women who eat at least one apple a day have been found to be 28% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who do not eat apples.
   

4. 4.Apples are loaded with fiber. A medium apple has 4 grams of fiber, most of it in the form of pectin, which lowers cholesterol and blunts blood sugar swings.
   

5. 5.Apples are vitamin and mineral rich providing vitamins A and thiamin, along with healthy doses of potassium, phosphorus and iron.
   

6. 6.According to Cornell University, the fresh apple extract from just one medium apple provides as much antioxidant activity as 1500 milligrams of vitamin C!
   

7. 7.Apples are good for your smile. Apples don't actually clean your teeth but biting and chewing an apple stimulates saliva production which lowers the amount of bacteria in your mouth reducing the risk of tooth decay.
   

8. 8.The flavonoids found in apples, especially in the peel, may be potent cancer fighters.
   

9. 9.When it comes to cooking, apples are sweet, crunchy, versatile and economical. Chopped or sliced apples are a perfect topping for hot oatmeal or cottage cheese (especially when finished off with a dusting of cinnamon and a sprinkle of your favorite sweetener), a terrific mix-in for muffins and breads, and a flavorful addition to salads and slaws.
   

10. 10.Nothing beats a hot apple dessert, especially when apples are paired with fragrant cinnamon. Luscious enough for any occasion, this no-sugar added Sour Cream Apple Pie (with just 20 grams of carb a slice) is a snap to prepare when made with a store-bought pre-prepared crust, while a Microwave Cinnamon Baked Apple is perfect any time at all (even for breakfast) and quick to make.
    

1. •Do You Know Where Your Chocolate Comes From?4/24/16
   

2. •Chocolate Compounds Boost Heart Health
   

3. •Antioxidant Polyphenols in Chocolate
   

4. •What's the Healthiest Type of Chocolate?

Now that you understand about cooking food properly and separating cooked and uncooked items both before and after cooking, it's time to move on to the last two points.

•Cleaning is a crucial part of food safety. Wash your hands and work surfaces frequently when you are cooking and after you have blown your nose, been to the bathroom, touched a pet, or changed a diaper. Plain old soap and water are very effective. If you slowly sing a verse of "Happy Birthday To You" while washing your hands, you will have washed them for the proper length of time. If you are cooking for someone who is pregnant, is very young or old, has a chronic illness, or a compromised immune system, choose a soap with more sophisticated antibacterial qualities. I wash my hands 20-30 times while I am cooking, and my work surfaces are cleaned that often too. I wash tongs, spoons, and spatulas after they have touched uncooked meats or eggs. I prefer using paper towels for drying my hands and my countertops. They are easily discarded and don't carry bacteria to another surface. That habit may be environmentally incorrect, but I still do it - and no one has ever had food poisoning eating at my house.
One easy way to avoid cross-contamination is to use a large platter to cut raw meats. After the meat is prepared and is cooking, just put the platter directly into the dishwasher, along with any utensils used to prepare the meat.

•Chilling food is very important. The danger zone where bacteria multiply is between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Your refrigerator should be set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below; your freezer should be 0 degrees Fahnrenheit or below. Here's a simple rule: serve hot foods hot, cold foods cold. Use chafing dishes or hot plates to keep food hot while serving. Use ice water baths to keep cold foods cold. Never let any food sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours - 1 hour if the ambient temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit or above. When packing for a picnic, make sure the foods are already chilled when they go in the insulated hamper. The hamper won't chill food - it keeps food cold when properly packed with ice. Hot cooked foods should be placed in shallow containers, covered, and immediately refrigerated so they cool rapidly.

1. ★Superfood Trio: Ginger, Turmeric, and Carrots?
   

Apple Cider Vinegar

1. -5 Ways Vinegar Keeps You Healthy
   

1. ★Apple Cider Vinegar -- 81 unique uses including Gout, belly fat, fleas, warts, etc
   

2. ★http://www.thealternativedaily.com/alerts/acv/click-applecidervinegar.php
   

1. ★“Dr. David Lewis is a microbiologist with a PhD in Microbial Ecology who spent three decades working as an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) scientist.
   

He got fired for blowing the whistle on the corruption and conflict of interest at the EPA that caused industrial waste and toxins to be stealthily inserted into the fertilizer applied to our farmlands, and sold to us in potting soil with biosolids...”

1. ★Glyphosate was determined to be a “probable carcinogen” (Class 2A),
   

2. ★The Eight Most Damaging Ingredients to Watch for on Food Labels3/18/15
   

3. ★Food Storage and Preparedness
   

Power Outages:

What About Power Outages?

If the power goes out at your house, follow basic food safety rules. Perishable food is safe at room temperature for 2 hours when the temperature is below 80 degrees F. Above that temperature, you only have one hour before bacteria start to grow in unrefrigerated food.

Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed. Open the doors as little as possible. An unopened refrigerator should keep foods cold for up to four hours; you will still have to evaluate each item individually when the power comes back on. A freezer that is half full should keep foods frozen for 24 hours; a full freezer should keep foods frozen for 48 hours. You can cover your fridge and freezer with thick blankets to try to insulate them and keep them as cool as possible. For longer outages, you can try to find dry ice to pack into your freezer, but you must take special precautions handling it.

If the power outages lasts longer than 4 hours, remove milk, meat, and dairy products from the fridge and pack them into a cooler with lots of ice.

Having an instant read food thermometer is crucial to determining food safety after the power comes back on. If refrigerated products are still below 40 degrees, they should be safe. Check to see if frozen foods still have ice crystals visible and that their temperature is below 40 degrees. You can then refreeze these foods, but there will probably be some loss of quality.

And remember the most basic rule: When in doubt, throw it out. Any cost savings you may gain by keeping questionable food will cost you much more in terms of doctor and hospital bills if someone gets sick.

Remember that cooking outside during a power outage on your charcoal or gas grill is a great way to keep the temperature inside your house as cool as possible.

Here's more crucial information: check sell-by dates when shopping and tell the grocery store manager if you see any expired foods on the shelf. Don't dawdle between the grocery store and your freezer or refrigerator at home. Never use food in cans that are bulging, leaking, rusted or dented. Thaw foods in the refrigerator. Bring all canned soups and gravies to a rolling boil before serving.

Do not serve food in non-food containers!! Things like flower pots and litter pans (for the Kitty Litter Cake (and even then I'd still use a large roasting pan myself) can only be used if the container is first well-lined with food-safe material, either another container, or a couple of layers of plastic wrap. Not only are many containers made with lead, but they could be sprayed with pesticides while in the warehouse. Just be safe and choose containers and serving dishes made for food.

If you study this information, safe food handling will become an ingrained part of your kitchen habits. They are second nature to me! And I enjoy cooking and entertaining more because I know I have done everything I can to ensure that the foods I serve family and friends is safe.

BREADS

You can refrigerate breads but they will become stale more quickly. However, refrigeration does retard mold growth.

BANANAS

The skin of bananas will turn black when refrigerated or frozen. This will not affect the quality of the flesh, but the appearance is off-putting.

BAKED PRODUCTS

These products will lose quality but will keep longer in the refrigerator, especially if the ambient room temperature is very warm.

UNRIPE FRUITS

Unripe fruits, including peaches, tomatoes, and avocados, can be stored in the refrigerator for longer life but their texture will be impaired.

NUTS

Nuts should be stored in the freezer, not the refrigerator. Never chop cold nuts or they will become oily and soft.

OILS

Oils can be stored in the refrigerator, but they will become cloudy and thick. They will regain their original consistency when heated.

CEREALS, CRACKERS AND CHIPS

These products should be stored, tightly covered, at room temperature. You can store them in the refrigerator if you are having an insect infestation problem. If they are soggy after refrigeration, warm them in a low oven until warm and crisp.

The foods on this chart are those which must always be kept in the refrigerator. Use your refrigerator thermometer to check the temperature on different shelves; they may vary by a few degrees. More fragile and delicate foods should be placed in the warmer areas of the refrigerator. Cover the foods tightly and make sure there is a use-by date on the package. If there isn't, write the date you purchased the product with a waterproof marker.

LUNCHEON MEATS

Unopened packages can be stored in the refrigerator until the date stamped on the package. After opening, these products should be eaten within 3-5 days.

MILK

Fresh milk should always be stored in the refrigerator. Use within one week of the date stamped on the container.

EGGS

Do not store eggs in the door of the refrigerator. The temperature there is not cold enough to keep the eggs at a safe temperature. Be sure to check the date stamped on the egg package and follow it rigorously. Be very careful to follow the use-by dates stamped on pasteurized eggs and egg products.

NATURAL CHEESES

Natural cheeses should be tightly wrapped and refrigerated. For best taste and texture, remove cheese from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving.

FRESH MEATS

Fresh meats must be refrigerated immediately when brought home from the store. Wrap the package in additional plastic wrap or place in plastic bag. Make sure you don't place raw meats above any foods that will be eaten uncooked, to prevent juices from the meats from dripping on other foods. Fresh whole meat should be used within 3-5 days. Fresh ground meat should be used within 1-2 days.

BACON, SAUSAGE

Refrigerate the unopened package, as well as after the package is opened. The newer forms of shelf-stable bacon can be stored in the pantry before opening. Read the label carefully.

CANNED HAM

Most canned meats can be stored in the pantry, except for canned ham. Store canned ham in the refrigerator. If unopened, it can be stored for up to 2 weeks, or by the date stamped on the package.

MARINATING FOODS

Always, when marinating foods, store in the refrigerator during the recommended marinating time.

DEFROSTING FOODS

Always defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator. Never defrost at room temperature or in warm water.

FRUITS

Wrap well. Don't wash fresh fruits before storing them in the refrigerator because they will soften and lose quality. Wash them just before eating. Don't store tomatoes or bananas in the fridge.

BAKED PRODUCTS CONTAINING CREAM OR CUSTARD FILLINGS

These products include cakes, pies, breads, coffee cakes, and cookies. Wrap well and store in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before serving for best taste and texture.

VEGETABLES

Vegetables should be stored in the refrigerator, except for potatoes and onions. Wrap well and use within 3-5 days.

DOUGHS

Any dough product should be stored in the refrigerator. Keep tube doughs in the fridge until just before using; otherwise they will soften too much and be difficult to work with.

BUTTER

Refrigerate in original packaging. Soften at room temperature, by grating on a cheese grater, or in microwave (on high for 5-8 seconds; repeat until softened).

FISH & SHELLFISH

Fish and shellfish are extremely perishable and should really be used the same day they are purchased. Store in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

COOKED ENTREES

Leftover cooked entrees should be placed in the refrigerator as soon as you are done serving. Divide into smaller containers for fast and safe cooling and easier reheating. Cover well.

TAKE OUT FOODS

Any leftover take out or delivered food product should be placed in the refrigerator as soon as you're done eating. Cover tightly and label with the date purchased. Eat within 1-2 days.

PIZZA

Ah - cold pizza for breakfast! Refrigerate any leftovers immediately, well covered. Eat within 1-2 days.

LEAFY GREENS

Leafy greens should be stored in plastic bags in the fridge. To save time, when you get home from the store you can wash greens, dry them, and wrap them in paper towel and place in a plastic bag to use within 1-2 days.

Leftovers: Last Three to Four Days

Refrigerate large items in several shallow containers, rather than large clumps. Food will cool evenly & more quickly. Don’t take the chance of of something growing in the center because it didn’t cool properly.

Freezing Tips

To successfully freeze foods, there are some simple rules you need to follow. The two most important bits of advice are to make sure you wrap the foods very well, and that you keep careful track of what is in your freezer. Freezer burn is dehydration of the food caused by improper packing, and wastes food. And if you don't label the foods in your freezer and have a frequently updated chart of what's in there, your freezer will be impenetrable in a very short time - which also wastes food.

If you are interested in Once A Month Cooking (OAMC) and doing the bulk shopping, cooking and freezing to fill a freezer in one-two days, please refer to the Cook Once A Month! Subject List. There will be more information in the weeks ahead on this topic at Busy Cooks. This Cooking Lession will just cover the basics of what freezes well and what doesn't. For more information on OAMC. The chart below will help with special instructions and the length of time foods can be safely frozen.

FOOD

STORAGE TIME

SPECIAL TIPS

BREADS, MUFFINS

Up to 1 month

Cool completely before freezing. Do not frost. To thaw, loosen wrap and let sit at room temp 2-3 hours. To heat, wrap in foil, reheat 350 degrees 15-20 minutes. Heat frozen waffles without thawing first.

SANDWICHES

Up to 2 weeks

Don't make sandwiches with jelly, mayonnaise, cooked egg whites or raw veggies (especially lettuce). Choose peanut butter, cream cheese, meats, shredded cheeses, grilled and cooked veggies. Spread bread with a very thin layer of butter before layering.

FROSTED CAKES

Up to 3 months

Buttercream frosting freezes well. Custards and egg white frostings do not. Cool completely. Place unwrapped cake in freezer to harden frosting before wrapping. Thaw loosely covered overnight in fridge.

UNFROSTED CAKES

Up to 6 months

Cool completely before freezing. Place cakes, especially angel and chiffon, in cake container to avoid crushing. Thaw, wrapped, at room temperature 2-3 hours.

CUSTARD PIES, CREAM PIES, MERINGUES

Do not freeze well

Not recommended

UNBAKED FRUIT PIES

Up to 3 months

Before filling, brush bottom crust with egg white to prevent sogginess. Add extra tablespoon of flour to filling. Don't cut vent holes in pastry. Cover with inverted pie plate until firm. To bake, unwrap, cut vent holes, bake at 425 degrees 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 375 degrees, bake according to recipe until center bubbles and crust is brown.

BAKED FRUIT PIES, NUT PIES

Up to 4 months

Cool completely before freezing. Cover with inverted pie plate until firm. Wrap well. To heat, unwrap, bake at 325 degrees for 30-45 minutes until warm.

COOKIE DOUGH

Up to 3 months

Wrap well. Let thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking unless the recipe states the frozen dough can be baked. Shape into cookies before freezing for fastest baking.

BAKED UNFROSTED COOKIES

Up to 1 year

Cool completely, wrap well in layers in freezer container and freeze. Thaw, wrapped, at room temperature. For crisp cookies, thaw unwrapped at room temperature.

BAKED FROSTED COOKIES

Up to 2 months

Freeze uncovered on cookie sheets until cookies and frosting are firm. Then stack in layers in freezer container, wrap well and freee. Thaw, wrapped, at room temperature.

BUTTER

Up to 9 months

Freeze in original packaging, placed into heavy duty freezer bags. Thaw in refrigerator or in microwave.

MILK, CREAM

Difficult to freeze unless whipped

Milk, cream and light cream will separate

Whipped heavy cream will freeze well. Place dollops on cookie sheet, freeze until firm, then place in bags and freeze. Let thaw in refrigerator.

UNCOOKED EGGS, EGG SUBSTITUTES

Up to 6 months

If freezing yolks separately, add 1 tsp. sugar or salt per egg yolk, depending on end use. Make sure to mark what you added!

COOKED EGGS, MAYONNAISE

Do not freeze well

Not recommended

VEGETABLES

Up to 6 months

Blanch before freezing. Remove as much air as possible from package before freezing. Vegetables with lots of water like salad greens and tomatoes do not freeze well. Do not freeze deep fried vegetables.

FRUITS

Up to 6 months

Up to 1 year

Freeze loose small fruits in single layer on cookie sheet until firm; then package in airtight freezer bag or container and freeze. Thaw in refrigerator.

SAUCES

Up to 3 months

Most sauces will separate after being frozen. If mixed with other ingredients, freezing quality will increase. Sauces with cornstarch and cheese lose quality fastest. Leave some head space for expansion when freezing in plastic containers.

CASSEROLES

Up to 3 months

Cornstarch sauces can be frozen when mixed with other ingredients in a casserole. Slightly undercook casseroles, as they will finish cooking during reheating.

SOUPS

Up to 6 months

Cool completely, skim off fat. Place in rigid plastic containers, leaving 1/2" head space for expansion.

MEATS

Fresh: 1 year

Cured: 1 month

Do NOT refreeze thawed meats. If you thaw frozen meat, cook it in some form, then it can be refrozen. Cured meats should be frozen for just one month. Do NOT freeze stuffed chicken or turkey. Make sure to reform ground beef into thin patties before freezing for quick thawing.

FISH

Up to 3 months

Wrap tightly in heavy duty freezer wrap or plastic bags. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before cooking.

COOKED PASTAS

Up to 2 months

Cooked pastas lose quality when frozen. Undercook and freeze in a sauce for best results. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Tips:

•Your freezer temperature should be below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.

•Use microwave safe plastic wrap if you plan to thaw or cook the frozen food in the microwave.

•Freeze in smaller portions so the food cools faster and thaws faster for best quality.

•Freeze in thin portions.

•You can freeze ingredients for a casserole in individual packets (chicken, vegetables, cheese), then place the smaller packets into one large bag. Label well, including thawing and baking instructions, then freeze.

•Line casserole dishes with heavy duty foil before assembling. Fill casserole, freeze, then remove foil wrapped food and seal in ziplock heavy duty freezer bag. Place in original container to thaw and bake.

•Remember that freezing will not improve foods, it will just keep them at their original freshness and quality. Freeze only top quality foods.

                    Kitchen Fire

  I never realized that a wet dishcloth can be a one size fits all lid to cover a fire in a pan!

  This is a dramatic video (30-second, very short) about how to deal with a common kitchen fire . oil in a frying pan. Read the following introduction, then watch the show .. It's a real eye-opener!!

At the Fire Fighting Training school they would demonstrate this with a deep fat fryer set on the fire field. An instructor would don a fire suit and using an 8 oz cup at the end of a10 foot pole toss water onto the grease fire. The results got the attention of the students.

The water, being heavier than oil, sinks to the bottom where it

instantly becomes superheated. The explosive force of the steam blows the burning oil up and out. On the open field, it became a thirty foot high fireball that resembled a nuclear blast. Inside the confines of a kitchen, the fire ball hits the ceiling and fills the entire room.

Also, do not throw sugar or flour on a grease fire. One cup creates the explosive force of two sticks of dynamite. Sent in by Lorraine Moreland, 4/21/08

Kitchen Cooking Fire Safety

Still Suffering From Joint Problems?

Read this important health news feature recently published in the L.A. Times

Traditional Joint Supplements Show
No Long-Term Benefit According To a Recently Published Study in the New England Journal of Medicine

Do you take or are you considering taking a Glucosamine supplement for Arthritis or other chronic joint problem? If so, the results of several recently published studies may prompt you to reconsider your approach. With over 55% of Americans suffering from joint problems the recent news has shocked doctors and patients around the country. The effectiveness of Glucosamine has been controversial for years and these recent studies provide new evidence that Glucosamine does not provide the benefit it was thought to offer.

Glucosamine, a popular supplement for arthritis, osteoarthritis, and joint deterioration has shown no long-term beneficial effect according to a study of 1583 patients conducted by a team of medical doctors in cooperation with the University Of Utah School Of Medicine. The results of this new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in February of 2006 shed fresh new light on the lack of effectiveness of these controversial Glucosamine products. Glucosamine has been the number one selling dietary supplement in the United States for joint problems since the late 1990's. Hundreds of thousands of people worldwide have been taking Glucosamine up to twice daily in the hopes of finding relief from problem joint conditions. This study confirms that Glucosamine is not the answer people once thought it was.

What other alternatives are available to those suffering from problematic joints? Many doctors are now recommending a more natural approach. According a recent study from Harvard University of 22,000 patients in the Mediterranean Region, they found individuals who were aging but still extremely healthy. In fact, the University of Sweden confirmed that certain elements of the Greek diet actually help to improve joint problems dramatically. These studies indicate that it is possible

to get relief from joint problems naturally without Glucosamine or Chondroitin. There is an alternative solution for those suffering from joint conditions. Many doctors are now turning to a product developed by Greek Island Labs called 'Greek Island Lab's Natural Joint'. It is a unique blend of 37 natural vegetarian ingredients based on the traditional elements of the Greek diet that have been proven effective in the fight against joint problems. A large number of doctors now prefer this product over Glucosamine because it does not cause an increase in blood sugar levels. This is truly a natural approach to joint health that is generating considerable attention in the medical community. The product has even been featured recently in several prominent health magazines and the Physicians' Desk Reference for Non-Prescription Drugs and Dietary Supplements. Both users and doctors that are now recommending 'Greek Island Lab's Natural Joint' have consistently reported seeing noticeable results in as little as 5 days!

Dr. Mark Binette had this to say, "As a medical doctor in practice for 17 years, this is the first time that I have seen a natural product produce results like these. I even recommended it to my own father!" The recent popularity of Greek Island Lab's all new 'Greek Island Lab's Natural Joint' has even caused the internet community to take notice. 'Greek Island Lab's Natural Joint' has received top honors on several respected blogs and joint product review sites making it one of the most exciting new products to hit the market in several years. Retailers report brisk sales and difficulty keeping the product in stock due to steadily increasing demand. For more information, visit the official Greek Island Lab's Natural Joint website at: http://www.naturaljoint.com

"With the recent news about the ineffectiveness of Glucosamine, what are Doctors recommending now?" Dr. Mark Binette M.D.

Greek Island Lab's Natural Joint™ Promotes Flexibility and Mobility in Joints*

Click Here to View the 37 Natural Ingredients - Greek Fruit & Vegetable Blend.

Two Foods You Should Never Eat After Peak 8 Exercises

It would be best to AVOID all sugar and fruit juice for two hours after your workout, otherwise you will obliterate the growth hormone response and ruin the major benefit of the workout, which is to increase your growth hormone level. Remember that after age 35, your growth hormone levels radically decrease.

Avoid Food Poisoning

Aside from purchasing your food from high-quality, small-scale sources, the best way to protect yourself from a food borne infection is to strengthen your immune system. This is ideally done through daily lifestyle choices that support your overall health, such as:

1. •Avoiding sugar -- especially fructose -- grains, and processed food, and eating plenty of organic raw foods
   

2. •Getting plenty of restorative sleep
   

3. •Finding a way to diffuse the stress life throws at you (my favorite tool is EFT)
   

4. •Incorporating plenty of regular exercise each week
   

5. •Optimizing your vitamin D through sun exposure, or supplementation, if needed
   

6. •Taking a high-quality probiotic, which will help populate your gastrointestinal tract with beneficial bacteria—your best defense against bad bacteria like salmonella

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/09/23/broccoli-health-benefits.aspx

Broccoli

By Dr. Mercola

Mounting scientific studies have demonstrated that broccoli is one of nature's most valuable health-promoting foods. Science has proven time after time that Mother Nature is the best physician, and food is the best medicine.

A recent study, published in the American Journal of Hypertension, adds to the mounting scientific evidence about broccoli's noteworthy health benefits. A compound in broccoli, glucosinolate, produces a metabolite called sulforaphane that can significantly improve your blood pressure and kidney function, according to this latest animal study.

Sulforaphane is an organic sulfur compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, horseradish and arugula – but it's highest in broccoli sprouts.

Sulforaphane has been shown to have antidiabetic and antimicrobial properties, and also kills cancer stem cells, which slows tumor growth. Researchers believe eliminating cancer stem cells is key to controlling cancer.

This is something current chemotherapies cannot do, but food can! This latest research confirms broccoli's benefits go beyond cancer prevention.

In this 2012 study, hypertensive rats with impaired kidney function were given sulforaphane. The natural compound improved the rats' kidney function and lowered their blood pressure by normalizing a process called DNA methylation.

1. •Artificial Sweeteners-More Dangerous than You Ever Imagined
   

1. •The Drink that Can Help You Digest Better

1. •How Tulsi can Help You Stay Calm and Relaxed*and Healthier

Cancer cells feed on fructose, study finds

Research shows the refined sugar helps cancer cells proliferate  By Maggie Fox 8/2/20

WASHINGTON — Pancreatic tumor cells use fructose to divide and proliferate, U.S. researchers said on Monday in a study that challenges the common wisdom that all sugars are the same.

Tumor cells fed both glucose and fructose used the two sugars in two different ways, the team at the University of California Los Angeles found.

They said their finding, published in the journal Cancer Research, may help explain other studies that have linked fructose intake with pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest cancer types.

"These findings show that cancer cells can readily metabolize fructose to increase proliferation," Dr. Anthony Heaney of UCLA's Jonsson Cancer Center and colleagues wrote.

"They have major significance for cancer patients given dietary refined fructose consumption, and indicate that efforts to reduce refined fructose intake or inhibit fructose-mediated actions may disrupt cancer growth."

Americans take in large amounts of fructose, mainly in high fructose corn syrup, a mix of fructose and glucose that is used in soft drinks, bread and a range of other foods.

Politicians, regulators, health experts and the industry have debated whether high fructose corn syrup and other ingredients have been helping make Americans fatter and less healthy.

Too much sugar of any kind not only adds pounds, but is also a key culprit in diabetes, heart disease and stroke, according to the American Heart Association.

Several states, including New York and California, have weighed a tax on sweetened soft drinks to defray the cost of treating obesity-related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

The American Beverage Association, whose members include Coca-Cola and Kraft Foods have strongly, and successfully, opposed efforts to tax soda.

The industry has also argued that sugar is sugar.

Heaney said his team found otherwise. They grew pancreatic cancer cells in lab dishes and fed them both glucose and fructose.

Tumor cells thrive on sugar but they used the fructose to proliferate. "Importantly, fructose and glucose metabolism are quite different," Heaney's team wrote.

"I think this paper has a lot of public health implications. Hopefully, at the federal level there will be some effort to step back on the amount of high fructose corn syrup in our diets," Heaney said in a statement.

Now the team hopes to develop a drug that might stop tumor cells from making use of fructose.

U.S. consumption of high fructose corn syrup went up 1,000 percent between 1970 and 1990, researchers reported in 2004 in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Vitamin C Stops Cancer

Vitamin C has been known for its ability to prevent colds and flu, but recent studies show it may prevent certain forms of blood cancer from advancing, along with pancreatic, colon, liver and ovarian cancers, and have a huge impact on how leukemia and other cancer treatments are handled in the future.

A professor at CCNY for a physiological psych class told his class about bananas.  He said the expression "going bananas" is from the effects of bananas on the brain.  Read on: 

Never, put your banana in the refrigerator!!! 

This is interesting. 

After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again. 

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. 

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. 

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet. 

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier. 

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood. 

Anemia : High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia. 

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke. 

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert. 

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives. 

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system. 

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief. 

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness 

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation. 

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system. 

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips.. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.. 

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach. 

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers.. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature. 

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan. 

Smoking &Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.. 

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance.. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack. 

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%! 

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape! 

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills.. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!" 

PS: Bananas must be the reason monkeys are so happy all the time! I will add one here; want a quick shine on our shoes?? Take the INSIDE of the banana skin, and rub directly on the shoe...polish with dry cloth. Amazing fruit !!!  

EWG's 2012 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce

Home »EWG's 2012 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce

Eat your fruits and vegetables! The health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables outweigh the risks of pesticide exposure. Use EWG's Shopper's Guide to Pesticides to reduce your exposures as much as possible,

but eating conventionally-grown produce is far better than not eating fruits and vegetables at all. The Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce will help you determine which fruits and vegetables have the most pesticide residues and are the most important to buy organic. You can lower your pesticide intake substantially by avoiding the 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables and eating the least contaminated produce.

This year we have expanded the Dirty Dozen with a Plus category to highlight two crops -- green beans and leafy greens, meaning, kale and collard greens - that did not meet traditional Dirty Dozen criteria but were commonly contaminated with highly toxic organophosphate insecticides. These insecticides are toxic to the nervous system and have been largely removed from agriculture over the past decade. But they are not banned and still show up on some food crops.

Commodity crop corn used for animal feed and biofuels is almost all produced with genetically modified

(GMO) seeds, as is some sweet corn sold for human consumption. Since GMO sweet corn is not labeled as

such in US stores, EWG advises those who have concerns about GMOs to buy organic sweet corn.

Clean 15™ Lowest in Pesticide

1.Onions

2 Sweet Corn

3 Pineapples

4 Avocado

5 Cabbage

6 Sweet peas

7 Asparagus

8 Mangoes

9 Eggplant

10 Kiwi

11 Cantaloupe- domestic

12 Sweet potatoes

13 Grapefruit

14 Watermelon

15 Mushrooms

Foods High In Potassium:

1. •raisins
   

2. •prunes
   

3. •apricots
   

4. •dates
   

5. •strawberries
   

6. •bananas
   

7. •watermelon
   

8. •cantaloupe
   

9. •citrus fruits
   

10. •beets
    

11. •greens
    

12. •spinach
    

13. •tomatoes
    

14. •mushrooms
    

15. •soy products
    

16. •veggie burgers
    

17. •peas
    

18. •beans
    

19. •turkey
    

20. •beef
    

21. •salmon
    

22. •cod

7 .” Don’ t be fooled by supplements that promise to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The National Institutes of Health says there’ no evidence of “even moderate scientific quality” that the risk of getting Alzheimer’s is altered by nutritional supplements or herbal preparations.”

#12 Cooks are discovering that coconut oil can add a nice flavor. And researchers have found that it seems especially potent at boosting HDL- that’s “good” cholesterol- levels.

#26 “Fatty liver disease now  affects about one in every five American adults. It use to be seen almost exclusively in people who drank excessively. Not now, because people who are obese or suffer from diabetes develop it. Fatty liver disease can harm the liver and may add to heart disease risk. The recommended treatment: Lose weight.

Dirty Dozen Plus                                 Buy these  organic:

1 Apples

2 Celery

3 Sweet bell peppers

4 Peaches

5 Strawberries

6 Nectarines– imported

7 Grapes

8 Spinach

9 Lettuce

10 Cucumbers

11 Blueberries– domestic

12 Potatoes

+ May contain pesticide residues of special concern

Nuts to Cancer

If you're not already snacking on a handful of nuts daily to help protect your heart, here's a reason that might sway you.

Walnuts, almonds, and pistachios contain a potent substance that may thwart cancerous tumors. Legumes are similarly loaded with the mighty compound, so there's no reason to leave those peanuts at the bottom of the can of mixed nuts.

A Tongue-Twisting Treat
A key enzyme involved in cancer growth may be inhibited by -- you ready for this? -- inositol pentakisphosphate. Luckily, you don't need to know how to say it to benefit from it! Just know that it's good for you and found in abundance in nuts, wheat bran, and most legumes. Apparently, the compound is so powerful it could hold promise for future cancer treatments.
More Nutty Nutrients
Nuts are chock-full of good-for-you vitamins, nutrients, and phytochemicals, along with healthy monounsaturated fats that help keep cholesterol down and arteries clear. But stick to about an ounce a day so you don't overload on calories. For a nutty but low-cholesterol twist on a favorite holiday treat, make this oh-so-good Oatmeal-Nut Crunch Apple Pie.

Learn how nuts and legumes may help your blood sugar, too!

Real Age Benefit: Eating a diverse diet that is low in calories and high in nutrients can make your Real Age as much as 4 years younger.                                 

Go nuts! Keep an airtight jar full of bulk Deluxe Mixed Nuts on hand. The tight seal will keep the inositol pentakisphosphate intact (we can't say it either), so each handful delivers cancer-fighting crunch.

Omegas in Organic Shelled Hempseed is better than fish oil. A product called Nutivea -Organic Shelled Hempseed has 33% protein and 9 % omega-3 in just three tablespoons. They call it a gift of nature.

www.nutiva.com

1. ★Health Benefits of Cranberries
   

2. ★Broccoli Boosts Aging Immune Systems
   

1. ★11 Worst Things You Can Do for Your Health
   

Beat the Blood Pressure Blues

1. •“Drop Some Pounds
   

2. •Get Moving
   

3. •Toss the Salt
   

4. •Do The Dash -eating plan
   

5. •Try a Natural Solution- A milk protein called casein contains an ingredient that reportedly helps maintain healthier blood pressure naturally. While it may be tough to eat enough dairy to get the benefits of casein, especially if you’re lactose-intolerant, there are supplements available that contain this protein.”      AARPNov./Dec ‘07

FOOD

SPECIAL TIPS

POTATOES AND SWEET POTATOES

When potatoes are chilled, the starches in the flesh change to sugars. This will make the potatoes taste sweet when cooked. Make sure to keep potatoes and onions separate when stored.

CANNED PARMESAN CHEESE

If you buy the finely grated Parmesan cheese in the green can, take a look at the label. It says do not refrigerate - even after opening!

HONEY

Honey will thicken and crystallize if stored in the refrigerator, even after opening. If this does happen, you can place the opened jar of honey in a pan of hot water and it will return to a pourable, smooth texture.

OILS EXCEPT NUT OILS

Most oils will thicken and turn cloudy if stored in the refrigerator. The exception is nut oils, which can turn rancid very quickly and should be stored chilled.

BAKED COOKIES

Do not refrigerate cookies if they do not contain a cream or custard filling. They will go stale much faster and lose quality quickly if stored in the refrigerator.

PEANUT BUTTER

Read the label on the peanut butter you buy. Some fresh, organic brands do require refrigeration. But most ordinary peanut butters should be stored, tightly covered, in the pantry, even after opening.

TOMATOES

Tomatoes do not like cold temperatures. You can store them in the refrigerator, but the cell structure will break down, resulting in an unpleasant mushy texture.

BREADS

The starch in breads will change structure under refrigeration (called retrogradation), making the bread texture tougher. Breads also lose moisture faster in the dry refrigerator environment. Do not refrigerate breads until the label says to.

CHOCOLATE

When chocolate is kept too cold, and is then brought to room temperature, condensation can make sugar condense on the top of the product, forming a rough surface called sugar bloom. Unless directed on the label, store chocolate, tightly wrapped, in a cool cupboard.

ONIONS

Do not store onions in the refrigerator. They should be stored in an open container in a cool, dry place - away from potatoes!

FOOD

SPECIAL TIPS

MAYONNAISE

Once opened, mayonnaise must be stored, tightly covered, in the refrigerator. Lasts two months once opened;mark bottle when opened.

MUSTARD AND KETCHUP

Store tightly covered in the refrigerator after opening for best quality and flavor.

CANNED FOODS

Once canned foods are opened, they must be refrigerated. Remove the foods from their original can and package in glass or plastic, tightly sealed containers to avoid a tinny taste.

PICKLES AND PRESERVES

After you break the seal on these foods, they must be refrigerated.

JAMS AND JELLIES

Store in the refrigerator after opening.

ASEPTICALLY PACKAGED FOODS

Aseptically packaged foods are packaged in a pouch or box and processed with ultra-high temperatures for a short time to kill bacteria. The package is designed with a sealed foil layer to prevent moisture or air transfer, just like canned foods. When opened, this seal is destroyed and the foods must be refrigerated. These foods include shelf-stable entrees, dairy products, soy milk, juice boxes, and smoked meats.

CONDIMENTS

Chutney, pickled products, and other condiments should be refrigerated after opening.

SALAD DRESSINGS

Store in the refrigerator after opening.

BABY FOODS

All canned and bottled baby foods must be covered tightly and refrigerated immediately after opening.

CANNED PET FOODS

Tightly cover canned pet foods (I use foil, then ziplock bags to avoid flavor transfers with other foods in the fridge) and store for 1-2 days after opening.

NUT OILS

Nut oils can become rancid very quickly and should be stored, tightly covered, in the refrigerator after opening.

HOT SAUCES, CHILI SAUCE

Refrigerate after opening in the original container.

CHOCOLATE SYRUP AND ICE CREAM TOPPINGS

Refrigerate in the original container, tightly covered, after opening.

Christmas Recipes

Quick & Easy Recipes

1. ★Scientists Show How Certain Vegetables Combat Cancer
   

1. Peppers, crisp, sweet and brightly colored, are a great source of cancer fighting Vitamin C, Vitamin A, folic acid and potassium.

2. Crucifers including cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, collards, kale, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, mustard greens, radishes, rutabaga, turnips and watercress, all include powerful phytochemicals that help stave off cancer by stimulating protective enzymes, which block carcinogens from entering cells and suppress tumor growth.

3. Berries, cranberries, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries, are rich in Vitamin C and folic acid and are high in fiber and potassium. Berries also contain phytochemicals and are strong antioxidants.

4. Lycopene is found in tomato-based pasta sauce, tomato paste, ketchup and salsa and contain powerful antioxidant properties. Lycopene has an apparent ability to reduce the risk of prostate and certain other cancers. Heating tomatoes is the key to breaking down the fibrous material inside tomatoes and releasing the lycopene.

5. Apples, especially the peel, contain cancer-fighting phytochemicals and have been proven to inhibit the growth of both colon and liver cancer cells.

Super Energy Kale Soup

Eating kale and other cruciferous vegetables two to three times a week or, even better, four to five times a week, is an easy way to significantly boost your health. Just one cup of kale will flood your body with disease-fighting vitamins K, A, and C, along with respectable amounts of manganese, copper, B vitamins, fiber, calcium, and potassium.

With each serving of kale, you’ll also find more than 45 unique flavonoids, which have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.1 In terms of green leafy vegetables, you really can’t go wrong… but kale is definitely worthy of its reputation as “king of veggies.”

Kale May Fight at Least Five Types of Cancer

Like other cruciferous vegetables, kale is a good source of cancer-fighting sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol. To date, kale has been found to lower the risk of at least five types of cancer, including bladder, breast, colon, ovary and prostate.3

The glucosinolates in kale and other cruciferous vegetables break down into products that help protect DNA from damage.4 As noted by the George Mateljan Foundation:5

“Kale's special mix of cancer-preventing glucosinolates has been the hottest area of research on this cruciferous vegetable.

Kale is an especially rich source of glucosinolates, and once kale is eaten and digested, these glucosinolates can be converted by the body into cancer preventive compounds. Some of this conversion process can also take place in the food itself, prior to consumption.”

While some research suggests raw kale is best for cancer prevention, other studies suggest lightly cooked is best, in part because it improves kale’s ability to bind with bile acids in your digestive tract.

This makes the bile acids easier for your body to excrete, which not only has a beneficial impact on your cholesterol levels, but also on your risk of cancer (bile acids have been associated with an increased risk of cancer). According to one study in Nutrition Research:6

“Steam cooking significantly improved the in vitro bile acid binding of collard greens, kale, mustard greens, broccoli, green bell pepper, and cabbage compared with previously observed bile acid binding values for these vegetables raw (uncooked).

Inclusion of steam-cooked collard greens, kale, mustard greens, broccoli, green bell pepper, and cabbage in our daily diet as health-promoting vegetables should be emphasized.

These green/leafy vegetables, when consumed regularly after steam cooking, would lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, advance human nutrition research, and improve public health.”

Eat Kale to Support Natural Detoxification

Foods that support both Phase 1 and Phase 2 detoxification are key to supporting your body’s daily removal of harmful substances from your body. Phase 1 detoxification is when toxins are broken down into smaller particles, while during your body’s Phase 2 detoxification process, the broken down toxins are shuttled out of your system.

If you eat foods that support Phase 1, but not Phase 2, the broken-down toxins may begin to accumulate in your body. But the isothiocyanates (ITCs) in kale help to promote both Phase 1 and Phase 2 detoxification. The George Mateljan Foundation explained:7

“In addition, the unusually large numbers of sulfur compounds in kale have been shown to help support aspects of Phase II detoxification that require the presence of sulfur.

By supporting both aspects of our cellular detox process (Phase I and Phase II), nutrients in kale can give our body an "edge up" in dealing with toxic exposure, whether from our environment or from our food.”

Kale Earns Its Reputation as a Superfood

Kale is one vegetable that lives up to its nutritional hype. It’s loaded with both lutein and zeaxanthin at over 26 mg combined, per serving, for starters. Of all the carotenoids, only zeaxanthin and lutein are found in your retina, which has the highest concentration of fatty acids of any tissue in your body.

This is because your retina is a highly light- and oxygen-rich environment, and it needs a large supply of free radical scavengers to prevent oxidative damage there.

It is theorized that your body concentrates zeaxanthin and lutein in your retina to perform this duty, and consuming these antioxidants may help to ward off eye problems like age-related macular degeneration.

And as far as calcium is concerned, one cup of kale will give you 90 milligrams in a highly bioavailable form. One calcium bioavailability study found that calcium from kale was 25% better absorbed than calcium from milk.8 What else do you gain when you eat kale?

1. •Anti-inflammatory properties that may help prevent arthritis, heart disease and autoimmune diseases
   

2. •Plant-based omega-3 fats for building cell membranes, protecting against heart disease and stroke, and regulating blood clotting
   

3. •An impressive number of beneficial flavonoids, including 32 phenolic compounds and three hydroxycinnamic acids to help support healthy cholesterol levels and scavenge free radicals
   

4. 
   

                       

Choose Organic Kale When You Can

When choosing kale, look for firm, fresh deeply colored leaves with hardy stems. Avoid leaves that are brown or yellow or that contain holes. Kale with smaller leaves tends to be more tender and milder than larger-leaved kale. Choose organic varieties (or grow your own), as kale is frequently sprayed with pesticides, and particularly toxic pesticides at that. One study by the Environmental Working Group detected 51 pesticides on kale, including several they described as “highly toxic.”9 For best results, store kale in your refrigerator (unwashed) in a plastic storage bag. Remove as much air as you can. Ideally, eat kale as soon as you can, because the longer it sits the more bitter the flavor becomes.10

Visit Our Food Facts Library for Empowering Nutrition Information

If you want to learn even more about what's in the food you're eating, visit our Food Facts library. Most people are not aware of the wealth of nutrients available in healthful foods, particularly organic fruits and vegetables. By getting to know your food, you can make informed decisions about how to eat healthier and thereby boost your brain function, lower your risk of chronic disease, lose weight, and much more.

Food Facts is a directory of the most highly recommended health foods to add to your wholesome diet. Its purpose is to provide you with valuable information about various types of foods including recipes to help you maximize these benefits. You'll learn about nutrition facts, scientific studies, and even interesting trivia about each food in the Food Facts library. Remember, knowing what's in your food is the first step to choosing and preparing nutritious meals each and every day. So visit Mercola Food Facts today to get started.

1. ★Top Anti-inflammatory Foods, Herbs, and Spices 2/2/15
   

Ginger- “plant from the Garden of Eden” Wow!!! You will want to make it part of your daily diet!

Garlic Remedies and Health Benefits Wow!!!!

Vitamin E: won’t reduce your risk of heart disease; it may worsen it. Eat E rich foods: nuts, seeds, and vegetable  oil

New carb rule: If it’s white, don’t bite. Bad carbs are generally white in color: sugar, white flour, white bread

1. •Ten Superfish You Should Be Eating
   

2. •Synthetic vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, kills beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut and cannot confer vitamin activity in the body  5/1/13
   

3. •Vitamin C Synthetic vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, kills beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut and cannot confer vitamin activity in the body
   

1. •What Is Bok Choy Good For?
   

2. -Boost Your Antioxidant Levels by eating Bok Choy
   

3. -Bok Choy is ANti-Inflammatory
   

4. -Better Bone Health Via Vitamin K
   

5. -BVitamins Galore
   

6. -Reuglates Your Immune Function etc.
   

1. ★7 Food Swaps That Will Make You Healthier 8/3/14 Dr. Mercola
   

2. ★How Sugar Harms Your Brain Health and Drives Alzheimer’s Epidemic 7/3/14 Dr. Mercola
   

3. •Fruits and Vegetables Help Protect Vision
   

4. •Ten Best Super Foods Boost Your Immunity
   

Almonds: high in vitamin E and low in saturated fat, eating an ounce a day can lower cholesterol. AARP

1. ★Benefits of Lemon Juice
   

2. ★Bad Diet Promotes Arthritis 9/3/14
   

3. ★It's High Time Low B12 Was On Your Radar Screen 9/14/14 The Fruit Your Skin Craves
   

4. ★Case Against Charrred Foods and Why Potatoe Salad May Be the Healthiest Way to Eat Potatoes Dr. Mercola 2/8/117

1. ★Top 20 Dangerous Foods You Absolutely Must Avoid 3/9/14
   

2. ★Fructose/Sugar Articles
   

3. ★63% of Americans Actively Avoid Soda
   

4. ★Coca-Cola Caught Undermining Public Health Initiatives 4/12/17
   

Research suggests they are to blame for about 183,000 deaths each year, including 133,000 from diabetes and 44,000 from heart disease. Please don't put your head in the sand - here's exactly what happens within 60 minutes of drinking it.

1. ★When It Comes to Aging Well, It’s Mind Over Matter
   

2. ★Juicing-for-Health- Wheatgrass nutritional info and facts-Don’t Miss
   

3. ★Blueberry phenol pterostilbene reduces body fat, could lower diabetes risk
   

1. ★27 Ways to Make Your Groceries Last/Dr. Mercola
   

1. ★Top Ten Destructive nutrition LIes Ever Told
   

Lie #7: Genetically Engineered Foods Are Safe and Comparable to Conventional Foods

Genetic engineering (GE) of our food may be the most dangerous aspect of our food supply today. I strongly recommend that you avoid ALL GE foods. Since more than 90 percent of the corn and 95 percent of the soy grown in the US are GE, then you can count on virtually every processed food having at least one GE component if it doesn't bear the "USDA 100% Organic" or non-GMO label.  Perhaps the most dangerous aspect of them is that the crops are saturated with one of the most dangerous herbicides on the market, glyphosate, to the tune of nearly a billion pounds per year. This toxic chemical can't be washed off as it becomes integrated into nearly every cell of the plant, and then gets transferred into your body.

No one knows exactly what will be the ultimate impact of these foods on your health, particularly over the long term. Animal studies have pointed to increased disease, infertility, and birth defects as the top contenders. The first-ever lifetime feeding study showed a dramatic increase in organ damage, cancer, and reduced lifespan. It's important to realize that, unless you're buying all organic food or growing your own, you're probably consuming GE foods on a daily basis. In order to avoid as many GE foods as possible, be aware that the following common crops are likely to be GE unless otherwise labeled:

Corn, Canola, Alfalfa, Soy, Cottonseed. Sugar from sugar beets. Zucchini

Crookneck squash, Hawaiian papaya

Benefits of Raw Milk

1. ★FDA Milk Prohibition Is Dirty Dairy’s Scheme2/7/17
   

2. ★Raw Milk versus Pasteurized—Which Is Safer? 7/22/
   

3. ★Raw Milk Heals Skin, Allergies and Immunity
   

What is “raw milk” exactly? It’s milk that comes from grass-fed cows, is unpasteurized and unhomogenized. This means raw milk contains all of its natural enzymes, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals — making it what many refer to as a “complete food.”

Some of the main reasons over 10 million Americans drink raw milk on a regular basis include:

1. •Healthier skin, hair and nails
   

2. •Stronger immune system
   

3. •Reduced allergies
   

4. •Increase in bone density
   

5. •Neurological support
   

6. •Weight loss
   

7. •Building lean muscle
   

And these are just a few of the benefits!  What makes raw milk such an incredible superfood?  Let’s take a look at it’s nutritional profile and it will become quite clear.

1. ★Scientists Find Direct Link Between Brain and Immune System
   

Dr.Mercola

1. ★Beyond Carrots — 9 Foods for Better Vision 9/8/15
   

1. ★Avocados Are Loaded With Powerful Antioxidants That Can Protect The Eyes
   

Not only do avocados increase antioxidant absorption from other foods, they are also high in antioxidants themselves. This includes nutrients called Lutein and Zeaxanthin, which are incredibly important for eye health (27, 28).Studies show that these nutrients are linked to a drastically reduced risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, which are common in the elderly (29, 30)

Medicinal Uses for:

Ginger: 11 Proven Health Benefits of Ginger (No. 5 is Insane)

https://nuts.com/driedfruit/crystallized-ginger/

Garlic 11 Proven Health Benefits of Garlic (No. 1 is My Favorite)

Mushrooms: The Many Health Benefits of Eating Mushrooms

Honey: Health Benefits of Honey - Amazing Benefits of Honey!

51   Healthy Foods You Can Say “Yes” to

Mayo Clinic: Drink More Water

This is indeed good information. A cardiologist determined that heart attacks can be triggered by dehydration.

Good Things To Know! From The Mayo Clinic.

How many folks do you know who say they don’t want to drink anything before going to bed because they’ll have to get up during the night!!

Heart Attack and Water - Drink 1 glass of water before going to bed avoids stroke or heart attack! I never knew all of this! Interesting...Something else I didn’t know...I asked my Doctor why people need to urinate so much at night time.

Answer from my Cardiac Doctor:

Gravity holds water in the lower part of your body when you are upright (legs swell). When you lie down and the lower body seeks level with the kidneys, it is then that the kidneys remove the water because it is easier. I knew you need your minimum water to help flush the toxins out of your body, but this was news to me.

Correct time to drink water...Very Important.

From A Cardiac Specialist Drinking water at a certain time maximizes its effectiveness on the body:

2 glasses of water after waking up - helps activate internal organs 1 glass of water 30 minutes before a meal - helps digestion
1 glass of water before taking a bath - helps lower blood pressure 1 glass of water before going to bed - avoids stroke or heart attack.

I can also add to this... My Physician told me that water at bedtime will also help prevent night time leg cramps. Your leg muscles are seeking hydration when they cramp and wake you up with a charliehorse.

Mayo Clinic on Aspirin - Dr. Virend Somers is a Cardiologist from the Mayo Clinic who is the lead author of the report in the July 29, 2008 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Most heart attacks occur in the day, generally between 6 A.M. and noon.

Having one during the night, When the heart should be most at rest, means that something unusual happened. Somers and his colleagues have been working for a decade to show that sleep apnea is to blame.

1. If you take an aspirin or a baby aspirin once a day, take it at night. The reason: aspirin has a 24-hour “half-life”; therefore, if most heart attacks happen in the wee hours of the morning, the aspirin would be strongest in your system.

2. Aspirin lasts a really long time in your medicine chest - for years. (when it gets old, it smells like vinegar).

Please read on.

Something that we can do to help ourselves - nice to know - Bayer is making crystal aspirin to dissolve instantly on the tongue. They work much faster than the tablets.

Why keep aspirin by your bedside? It’s about Heart Attacks -

There are other symptoms of a heart attack besides the pain on the left arm. One must also be aware of an intense pain on the chin, as well as nausea and lots of sweating; however, these symptoms may also occur less frequently.
Note: There may be NO pain in the chest during a heart attack. The majority of people (about 60%) who had a heart attack during their sleep did not wake up.

However, if it occurs, the chest pain may wake you up from your deep sleep. If that happens, immedi- ately dissolve two aspirins in your mouth and swallow them with a bit of water. Afterwards: - Call 9-1-1. - Phone a neighbor or a family member who lives very close by. Say “heart attack!” - Say that you have taken 2 aspirins. Then take a seat on a chair or sofa near the front door and wait for the ambulance arrival and most importantly, DO NOT LIE DOWN!

A cardiologist has stated that if each person after receiving this e-mail, sends it to 10 people, probably one life could be saved! I have already shared this information. What about you?

30 Science-Backed Foods That Will Physically Block Pain And Inflammation

Ginger                                    Green Tea                      Mangos                

Hot peppers                           Grapefruit                       Sweet Potatoes

Cherries                                  Beans                              Walnuts

Beets                                       Strawberries                   Apples

Salmon (Wild-caught)            Carrots                            Bone Broth

Broccoli                                   Celery                            Coconut Oil

Extra -Virgin Olive Oil          Brussel Sprouts                Leafy Greens

Blueberries                              Turmeric                         Chia Seeds

Oranges                                    Pineapple                        Tomatoes

Bok Choy                                  Bananas                    

Cinnamon Health Benefits Proven 9/4/17

Cinnamon is far more than a delicious sprinkle on your applesauce. Multiple studies show that its active ingredients bring about dramatic healing in the area of lowering blood sugar and fighting neurological disorders, cancer, dementia and other conditions. Can a spice really do all that?

With dozens of energy bars on the market today, how do you go about finding one that's truly healthy?

They likely contain hidden health bombs like soy, hydrolyzed milk protein, genetically engineered ingredients, artificial sweeteners and high fructose corn syrup.

My Organic Cocoa Cassava Bars can satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthful way with organic whole food ingredients without hidden health bombs!

We pack our energy bars with health promoting ingredients like raw, organic almond butter and chia seeds. Sweetened only with gluten-free tapioca syrup and a light touch of organic sugar in the organic dark chocolate, you'll be hard-pressed to find a tastier bar.

Next time you reach for a bar after a workout or during that mid-afternoon slump, why not make it a tasty and healthy one?

Find Out More About

Cocoa Cassava Bars

Steeped in a long history of enjoyment for body, mind, and spirit, Tulsi is a principle herb of Ayurveda, India's ancient holistic health system.

In more recent times, Tulsi has become known as one of the best adaptogens known to man.* Tulsi can help support your body against the effects of stress, assist in relaxation and help you stay calm in today's frenzied world.*

Organic Tulsi comes in 6 delicious flavors, including favorites like Chai Masala and Pomegranate Green. For a limited time only, select 6 Loose Leaf Organic Tulsi Tins (mix or match, your choice) and get a FREE jar of Pure Gold Raw Honey - nature's finest from beehives free of pesticides and herbicides.

BRAND NEW! We now have 100% Organic Tulsi Extract. It comes in an airless pump, so now it's easier than ever to make tulsi tea. Simply pump Tulsi Extract into a mug of hot or cold water, stir, and it's ready to sip and enjoy.

Find Out More About

Tulsi Tea

1. ★White House Plan to Address Antibiotic Resistance Is Too Weak to Protect Human Health 10/8/14
   

How to Find Organic Foods Locally

Your best bet for finding healthy food is to connect with a local farmer that raises animals according to organic standards, allowing them to roam freely on pasture. In the US, the following organizations can also help you locate farm-fresh foods:

Weston Price Foundation20 has local chapters in most states, and many of them are connected with buying clubs in which you can easily purchase organic foods, including grass fed raw dairy products like milk and butter.

Local Harvest -- This Web site will help you find farmers' markets, family farms, and other sources of sustainably grown food in your area where you can buy produce, grass-fed meats, and many other goodies.

Farmers' Markets -- A national listing of farmers' markets.

Eat Well Guide: Wholesome Food from Healthy Animals -- The Eat Well Guide is a free online directory of sustainably raised meat, poultry, dairy, and eggs from farms, stores, restaurants, inns, and hotels, and online outlets in the United States and Canada.

Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) -- CISA is dedicated to sustaining agriculture and promoting the products of small farms.

FoodRoutes -- The FoodRoutes "Find Good Food" map can help you connect with local farmers to find the freshest, tastiest food possible. On their interactive map, you can find a listing for local farmers, CSAs, and markets near you.

What is the correct way of eating fruits?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS! * FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH. 

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD.Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so.

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil....

So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining — every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc — actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only freshfruit juice, NOT from the cans. Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.  

APPLE: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

ORANGE : Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene — the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content.. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.

Drinking Cold water after a meal = Cancer! Can u believe this?? For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE': (THIS IS NOT A JOKE!) Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive.

1. ★11 Amazing Health Benefits of Using Baking Soda
   

2. ★10 Amazing Health Benefits of Lychee Fruit1/18/16

1. ★What Are Eggplants Good For?
   

2. •BEC or Eggplant Extract: Stunning New Way to Flush Away Skin Cancer
   

1. ★Go Bananas with Bodybuilding
   

2. ★7 Berries You Should Eat Everyday
   

3. ★Kiwifruit Helps Kick the Common Cold
   

4. •Lemon Wedges served in your drink at restaurants can carry harmful bacteria
   

1. ★Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter
   

1. ★Inverse association of farm milk consumption with asthma and allergy in rural and suburban populations across Europe. Our results indicate that consumption of farm milk may offer protection against asthma and allergy. A deepened understanding of the relevant protective components of farm milk and a better insight into the biological mechanisms underlying this association are warranted as a basis for the development of a safe product for prevention.
   

1. ★Seeds of Change Document the Seed Saving Movement 1/23/16
   

1. ★5 Things YOu Didn’t Know About Honey
   

livepage.apple.comDr. Mercola 3/22/16

1. ★Chocolate Can Boost Your Workout. Really.

To Chill or Not to Chill

The refrigerator is a great place to store foods. But do you know which foods should not be refrigerated? Which always should? When should you refrigerate foods? And how long do foods stay safe and fresh in the refrigerator? Read on for the answers.

First, let's learn a little bit about refrigerators.

•Your refrigerator should be set to a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below to 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This is low enough to help slow enzymatic processes and the growth of bacteria, but not cold enough to affect food quality by allowing ice crystals to develop. It's a good idea to keep a refrigerator thermometer in the fridge to make sure the temperature is low enough for food safety.

•Always cover food in your refrigerator. The air inside your fridge is extremely dry and foods will quickly dry out, lose quality, and become unappetizing in a short period of time if not covered. Covering foods also prevents bland or delicate foods (like dairy products) from acquiring odors from other foods (like cabbage).

•The cool temperatures in the refrigerator slow down the process of enzymes in the food and slow down bacteria reproduction. This prolongs food quality, taste, and texture, and keeps food safer longer. Refrigeration does not kill bacteria and can not improve food quality.

•Don't be afraid to put hot foods in the refrigerator. The appliance is made to cool down foods. The chilling process will happen more quickly in the fridge, once again giving bacteria less time to grow in the temperature danger zone of 40 - 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have a large casserole or dish that needs to be chilled, separate the foods into smaller, shallow (no more than 3" deep), individual containers for faster cooling. It can take a pot full of hot chicken soup 24 hours to cool to a safe temperature in the refrigerator! Divide and conquer bacteria!

•Don't overload the refrigerator. There should be enough space between foods that air can freely circulate around them. This way the temperature will be more even throughout the appliance.

•Use your refrigerator thermometer to check the temperature of the crispers and shelves. The coldest part of your fridge is not the place to store fragile foods like lettuces and delicate fruits. In my refrigerator, the top shelf is the coldest spot; lettuces develop ice crystals there, so I make sure to store them on a lower shelf.

•Foods that need refrigeration should be placed in the refrigerator within 2 hours after eating to help prevent bacteria growth. If the ambient temperature is more than 80 degrees Fahrenheit, that time safety zone shrinks to 1 hour. Don't violate this rule!!!

•At least once every three weeks, remove everything from your refrigerator. Working quickly (remember the 2 hour rule!!), wipe down all the interior surfaces with a baking soda solution. Dry thoroughly. Pay attention to the seals and gaskets too. I used to turn off my fridge while cleaning, but now I just let it stay on so it reaches the recommended temperature more quickly after refilling. The fact that my food is still safe and good quality more than compensates for the amount of power I may waste.

•What's your RIQ? (Refrigerator IQ, that is) Take a quiz!

On the following pages, printable charts list foods that fit into each stated category, along with extra tips and the general length of time they can be stored before eating. Just make sure to read labels for the final word on storage times and food handling.

 How long can a bottle of ketchup

stay in your fridge before it goes bad?  

I'm thinking 5 or 10 years, but if you

want an expert opinion, go to the web

site below.  This site lists all kind of

foods and how to keep them fresh longer

as well as when to get rid of them.

If you have a question click on the particular

picture, and a whole list of foods appear.

http://www.stilltasty.com/

Submitted by Jeanne Schmidt , Fordyce, Neb. 12/9/09    

Arsemic in Foods

Apple Juice

1. •FDA Sets New Limits on Arsenic in Apple Juice
   

Also, non organic chicken has arsenic in it. We have to start purchasing organic chicken.

1. •Arsenic Intentionally Being Added to Conventional Chicken
   

1. •Aresenic in Rice
   

1. •Superbug' bacteria widespread in U.S. chicken -consumer group Reuters 12/19/20

Nourishing Your Gut Flora May Boost Your Mood and Protect Your Mental Health

All things considered, it seems quite clear that nourishing your gut flora is extremely important to support a positive mood and stable mental health. To do so, I recommend the following strategies:

1. •Avoid sugar and processed, refined foods in your diet. Remember eating real food is one of the most powerful and simple strategies you can implement to take control of your health. If you need help doing this, read through my nutrition plan for a simple, whole-food based diet. There is simply no question that eliminating refined sugars is the most powerful intervention the average person can make to improve their gut flora.
   

2. •Eat traditionally fermented, unpasteurized foods. Fermented foods are the best route to optimal digestive health, as long as you eat the traditionally made, unpasteurized versions. Ideally, you want to eat a variety of fermented foods to maximize the variety of bacteria you’re consuming. Healthy choices include fermented vegetables, lassi (an Indian yoghurt drink, traditionally enjoyed before dinner), fermented milk like kefir, kimchee, and natto (fermented soy).
   

3. •Take a high-quality probiotic supplement. If you don’t eat fermented foods on a regular basis, do consider taking a broad-spectrum probiotic. Research has shown that certain probiotics may help alleviate anxiety by modulating the vagal pathways within the gut-brain, affecting GABA levels, and lowering the stress-induced hormone corticosterone.
   

In summary, foods have an immense impact on both your body and your brain, and eating whole foods as described in my nutrition plan is the best way to support your mental and physical health. Whether you need a quick pick-me-up or you’ve been struggling with poor mood for a while, the best remedy is likely not found in your medicine cabinet but right in your pantry or refrigerator.

Pinit image fix Pinit image fix

1. ★CAFO Collapse - How Factory Farms are Failing Fast

Health Benefits of Pineapple

Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Digestive Benefits

Antioxidant Protection and Immune Support

Manganese and Thiamin (Vitamin B1) for Energy Production and Antioxidant Defenses

Protection against Macular DegenerationI

1. ★Eat to Live Diet by Dr.Fuhrman
   

“What You Can Eat and What You Can't

In unlimited quantities, you may eat:

1. •Raw veggies
   

2. •Steamed or cooked green vegetables, eggplant, mushrooms, peppers, onions, tomatoes, carrots, cauliflower, and more
   

3. •Beans and other legumes. Fuhrman suggests eating 1 cup daily to benefit fully from the fiber and resistant starch, which helps you feel full and passes through the intestine without being digested.
   

4. •At least four fresh fruits per day, but no juice. You can have frozen fruit, but not canned. You can use dried fruit sparingly, as a sweet accent.
   

In limited quantities, you may eat:

1. •1 cup per day of cooked starchy vegetables or whole grains (winter squash, corn, potatoes, rice, bread, cereal)
   

2. •1 ounce per day of raw nuts and seeds
   

3. •2 ounces per day of avocado (1/5 of a medium avocado is 1 ounce)
   

4. •2 tablespoons per day of dried fruit
   

5. •1 tablespoon per day of ground flaxseed
   

Off-limits:

1. •Dairy products
   

2. •Animal products
   

3. •Snacks between meals
   

4. •Fruit juice
   

5. •Oils
   

6. •Processed foods
   

Fuhrman says it’s best to avoid alcohol if possible, but you can have one drink a day if that will help you stay on the plan.

Level of Effort: Medium to Hard

Limitations: This is a very restrictive diet. You will be eating tons of vegetables at most meals, with some fruit, some legumes, and a limited amount of starch at one meal. You will not eat meat, dairy, sugar, or oil at all on the initial 6-week plan. After you complete the first 6 weeks, you may reintroduce fat-free dairy, meat, fish, refined carbs, and olive oil in very small amounts. If you don't add the animal products back in, you will need to get supplemental vitamin B12, vitamin D, and potentially also an omega-3 fatty acid supplement....”

Important Health Benefits Romaine Lettuce Has to Offer

These vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients contribute to romaine lettuce’s abilities in preventing or easing various health complaints:6

Vitamin A (mainly because of the high amounts of beta-carotene)

Minerals like chromium, calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, iron, potassium and phosphorus

Vitamins C and K

Dietary fiber

Omega-3 fatty acids

Molybdenum

B vitamins B1, B5, B6, B7 and B9

An important benefit of romaine lettuce is its ability to improve heart health, because of the following:

1. •Vitamin C and beta-carotene: This tandem helps prevent cholesterol oxidation. Sticky oxidized cholesterol can build-up in the artery walls and form large plaques that can block off blood flow, and trigger a clot that can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
   

2. •Dietary fiber: It binds with bile salts in the colon and eventually expels these from the body. This forces the body to make more bile, which is created by breaking down cholesterol.
   

3. •Vitamin B9 or folic acid: This B vitamin is required to convert homocysteine, a damaging chemical, into other benign substances. Excessive amounts of homocysteine can directly damage blood vessels and raise your risk for heart attack and stroke.
   

4. •Potassium: This mineral can assist with reducing blood pressure levels and heart disease risk.
   

Vitamin A and beta-carotenes in romaine lettuce have antioxidant properties, with the former vital in maintaining healthy mucosa and skin and proper vision. Meanwhile, vitamin C in romaine lettuce may assist the body in forming a defense against harmful free radicals.7

Romaine lettuce is also a good source of vitamin K that plays a big role in bone metabolism, by promoting osteoblastic activity in the bone cells and helping increase bone mass. This vitamin was also shown to assist Alzheimer’s disease patients by limiting neuronal damage in the brain.

You can count on romaine lettuce to deliver vital amounts of folate as well, one of the many co-factors that’s important in the enzyme metabolism required for DNA synthesis. Plus, because romaine lettuce is folate-rich, it’s highly recommended in a pregnant woman’s diet to help prevent neural tube defects in a baby.

Apart from beta-carotene, another carotenoid called zeaxanthin is present in romaine lettuce. It’s selectively absorbed into the retinal macula latea in your eye, delivering antioxidants and filtering UV rays that can damage the retina.

Research also showed that a diet rich in zeaxanthin and other carotenes can offer protection against age-related macular disease (ARMD), especially among older adults. Adding romaine lettuce to your diet can also help minimize your risk of osteoporosis, iron-deficiency anemia, cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer’s disease.

What Are Blueberries Good For?

http://foodfacts.mercola.com/blueberries.html

1. ★Arugula
   

1. 1Arugula is a relative of the cruciferous family, which includes radishes, cauliflower and broccoli. Like other members of this family, it contains a number of medicinal nutrients, including cancer-fighting compounds
   

2. 2Arugula contains the highest amounts of nitrates of any vegetable. Your body uses the nitrates in food as raw material to make nitric oxide, which supports healthy blood vessel function, blood pressure and mitochondrial health