Author: Mary Ann Lesh

Posted in FEATURED, NUTRIENTS

Manganese

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

What does manganese do?
Manganese is a trace mineral found in bones, liver, kidneys, and pancreas that helps form connective tissue, bones, blood clotting factors, and sex hormones.

How much do I need?
Adult males need 2.3 mg; adult females, 1.8 mg

Are supplements recommended?
Manganese supplements are generally not needed for most people because a balanced diet rich in whole grains, nuts, leafy greens, and legumes usually provides sufficient amounts. Severe PMS, osteopenia, or type 2 diabetes can cause a deficiency. However, manganese supplements can be toxic. Anyone who is at risk of deficiency should consult a healthcare provider before taking them.

What are some good plant food sources of manganese?
Hazelnuts, Pecans, Brown Rice, Chickpeas, Spinach, Raw Pineapple, Soybeans, Oatmeal, and Whole Wheat Bread are good plant food sources of manganese.

plant food SourcemG of manganese%DV
1 oz dry roasted hazelnuts1.670
1 oz dry roasted pecans1.148
1.2 cup cooked brown rice1.148
1/2 cup cooked chickpeas0.939
1/2 cup boiled spinach0.835
1/2 cup raw pineapple chunks0.835
1/2 cup boiled soybeans0.730
1 slice whole-wheat bread0.730
1/2 cup cooked oatmeal0.730

Manganese-Rich Foods

PLANT FOOD FACTS

Spinach Facts

Spinach (español: espinacas) is a leafy green flowering plant whose leaves are consumed cooked or raw. Spinach is a good source of VITAMIN C, IRON, POTASSIUM, VITAMIN E, and MAGNESIUM. The possible health benefits of consuming spinach include blood glucose control, lower risk of cancer, and improved bone health. As part of a nutritious diet, it can help support immune function,…

Posted in NUTRIENTS, RESOURCES

Best Times for Supplements

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

What time of day is better for taking supplements? For many, there are no hard and fast rules, but for a few the time of day makes a difference. Most are best absorbed with a meal, but there are some exceptions.

SUPPLEMENTRECOMMENDED
DAILY AMOUNT*		BEST TIME
TO TAKE IT
VITAMIN B122.4 mcgin the morning on an empty stomach
VITAMIN C40 mg30 minutes before or 2 hours after a meal
VITAMIN D10 mcgmeal or snack time with food that contains fat
MAGNESIUM350 mg30 minutes before going to sleep
ZINC15-30 mg1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal
NUTRIENTDISCUSSION
CARBOHYDRATE
CALORIES
FAT
FIBER
PROTEIN
VITAMIN A (RETINOL)
VITAMIN B1
VITAMIN B2
VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN)
VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID)
VITAMIN B6
VITAMIN B7
VITAMIN B9
VITAMIN B12
VITAMIN CVitamin B12 was discovered as a result of studies related to pernicious anemia, an autoimmune disorder in which the blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells.  The ability to absorb the vitamin declines with age, especially in people over 60 years old. The diets of vegetarians and vegans may not provide sufficient B12 unless a dietary supplement is consumed. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include limb neuropathy, tiredness, weakness, lightheadedness, headache, breathlessness, loss of appetite, pins and needles sensations, changes in mobility, severe joint pain, muscle weakness, memory problems, decreased level of consciousness, brain fog, and others. These symptoms have been observed in individuals with B12 levels only slightly lower than normal. 
VITAMIN DVitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, one of the main building blocks for strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. Vitamin D is also needed for muscles to move and for nerves to carry messages between the brain and the body. The immune system needs Vitamin D to fight off invading bacteria and viruses. The two forms of vitamin D in supplements are D2 and D3. Both forms increase vitamin D in the blood, but D3 might raise it higher and for longer than D2. Because vitamin D is fat-soluble, it is best absorbed when taken with a meal or snack that includes some fat.
VITAMIN E
VITAMIN K
CALCIUM
CHLORIDE
CHROMIUM
COPPER
FLUORIDE
IODINE
IRON
MAGNESIUMFor sleep: Take magnesium supplements 30 minutes before bed to help you relax and sleep better. Magnesium can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle and reduce muscle tension. Magnesium is essential for maintaining good health and plays a key role in everything from exercise performance to heart health and brain function.
MANGANESE
MOLYBDENUM
PHOSPHOROUS
POTASSIUM
SELENIUM
SODIUM
ZINCZinc aids growth, DNA synthesis, and immune function. Zinc may effectively reduce inflammation, boost immune health, reduce risk of age-related diseases, speed wound healing, and improve acne symptoms. Beans, seeds, and nuts are rich in zinc.
CARBOHYDRATE
CALORIES
FAT
FIBER
PROTEIN
VITAMIN A (RETINOL)
VITAMIN B1
VITAMIN B2
VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN)
VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID)
VITAMIN B6
VITAMIN B7
VITAMIN B9
VITAMIN B12
VITAMIN C
VITAMIN D
VITAMIN E
VITAMIN K
CALCIUM
CHLORIDE
CHROMIUM
COPPER
FLUORIDE
IODINE
IRON
MAGNESIUM
MANGANESE
MOLYBDENUM
PHOSPHOROUS
POTASSIUM
SELENIUM
SODIUM
Posted in FEATURED, RECIPES

Guacamole

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

This traditional guacamole combination is served all over Mexico as a side dish with chips, or as a main ingredient in a taco.

  • PREP 20 min / SERVES 4
  • INGREDIENTS
    • 2 peeled ripe AVOCADOS
    • 1/2 c chopped TOMATOES
    • 1/4 c chopped ONION
    • 1/4 c chopped CILANTRO
    • 1 clove crushed GARLIC
    • 2 Tbsps LEMON JUICE
    • 1 small SERRANO CHILE, seeded and chopped
    • SALT and PEPPER to taste
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Mash the avocados until creamy
    2. Add other ingredients and stir lightly until well mixed
PLANT FOOD FACTS

Garlic Facts

Garlic has been used as a traditional medicine as well as a food flavoring. It is a healthy and delicious addition to many dishes around the world. Its medicinal benefits for both cure and prevention require larger doses, which should be taken with the supervision and advice of a knowledgeable medical practitioner.

Mary Ann Lesh's avatar by Mary Ann Lesh
Posted in RECIPES

Oven-Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Roasted sweet potatoes can be served as they are or scooped out and used in a variety of dishes.

  • PREP 15 min / COOK 30 min / TEMP 425 F / SERVES 2
  • INGREDIENTS
    • 1 SWEET POTATO, unpeeled
    • 1 Tbsp OLIVE OIL, or enough to lightly cover the peeling
    • SALT, to taste
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Wash and dry unpeeled SWEET POTATOES
    2. Rub the peeling with OLIVE OIL
    3. Slice SWEET POTATOES lengthhwise
    4. Season to taste with SALT and seasonings of your choice
    5. Place cut-side down on a cookie sheet
    6. Roast in pre-heated oven at 425° F for 30 minutes until center is soft

ABOUT SWEET POTATOES

Sweet Potato Facts

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.

Posted in RECIPES

Pita Pockets

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Homemade pita bread to accompany hummus or most anything you want.

  • PREP 20 min + 2.5 hrs to rise / HOT SKILLET / COOK 1-2 min per side / MAKES 10
  • INGREDIENTS
    • 2 1/2 c FLOUR
    • 1 tsp SALT
    • 1 Tbsp SUGAR
    • 1 Tbsp YEAST
    • 1 c LUKEWARM WATER (110º F)
    • 1 Tbsp OLIVE OIL
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Whisk the FLOUR, SALT, YEAST and SUGAR together.
    2. Add WARM WATER and OLIVE OIL a little at a time until it forms a sticky dough.
    3. Knead the dough with a small amount of flour for about 8 minutes and shape into a ball.
    4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover and let rise for 2 hours.
    5. Roll out the dough and divide into ten equal pieces. Roll out each piece, covering with a tea towel as you make each one. When all are rolled out, let rise for 30 minutes.
    6. Place the rounds on a very hot skillet for about 20 seconds, flip and continue cooking. Flip again to finish cooking the first side.
sweet potatoes
Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Sweet Potato Facts

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Sweet potato health benefits include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and liver-protecting activity, cardiovascular protection, anticancer properties and improvement in neurological and memory capacity, metabolic disorders, and intestinal barrier function.

The sweet potato is a dicotyledonous plant in the morning glory family, They come in a variety of sizes and colors, including orange, white, and purple. They can be baked, boiled, or roasted.

1 cup or 200 g of sweet potato with skin contains%DV
CARBOHYDRATE41 G
CALORIES180
FAT0.3 G
FIBER6.6 G
PROTEIN4 G
COPPER36%
MANGANESE43%
POTASSIUM20%
VITAMIN A (RETINOL)213%
VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN)19%
VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID)35%
VITAMIN B634%
VITAMIN C44%
SOURCE: HEALTHHLINEs
Posted in RECIPES, Soups

Carrot Ginger Soup

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

A colorful and flavorful soup to warm you up on a cold winter day

  • PREP 20 min / MEDIUM HEAT / COOK 10-15 min / SERVES 4
  • INGREDIENTS
    • 1 small chopped ONION
    • 1 Tbsp OLIVE OIL
    • 1 finely chopped clove GARLIC
    • 2 c chopped CARROTS
    • 1 1/2 tsp grated FRESH GINGER
    • 1 Tbsp APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
    • 3-4 c VEGETABLE BROTH
    • SALT and PEPPER to taste
    • CREAM or substitute
    • PARSLEY
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Saute ONION and GARLIC in OLIVE OIL
    2. Add CARROTS; continue cooking about 8 minutes
    3. Stir in GINGER and APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
    4. Stir in VEGETABLE BROTH to desired consistency
    5. Simmer about 30 minutes until CARROTS are tender
    6. Add SALT and PEPPER to taste
    7. Cool thoroughly, then blend until smooth
    8. Garnish with CREAM and PARSLEY before serving
Posted in RECIPES, Sauces

Italian Tomato Sauce

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

It’s always good to have a few cans of tomato sauce and tomato paste on hand, but if I have the time and the fresh ingredients available, a slow-simmering homemade sauce is fun to make.

PREP 15 min / MEDIUM HEAT / COOK 20 min / SERVES 4

  • INGREDIENTS
    • 1-2 fresh ripe TOMATOES
    • 1/2 c ONION, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves GARLIC, crushed
    • 1 tsp SUGAR
    • 3 stems fresh BASIL
    • Dash RED WINE VINEGAR
    • SALT and PEPPER to taste
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Drop TOMATOES into a pan of boiling water for about 1 minute until the skins split. Lift out and peel, then chop roughly.
    2. Saute ONION on medium-low heat about 5 minutes until translucent but not brown. Add GARLIC and cook 2 more minutes.
    3. Add peeled TOMATOES breaking them up with a wooden spoon, then add 1 tsp SUGAR, dash of RED-WINE VINEGAR, and BASIL STEMS (save the leaves). Season lightly with SALT and ground BLACK PEPPER.
    4. Bring to a simmer, then turn down the heat and simmer 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    5. Test the seasoning, add the roughly-torn BASIL LEAVES before serving.

Posted in RECIPES

Almond Milk

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Almond Milk is a tasty vegan beverage that can be substituted for animal milk in most recipes

PREP 10 min / need BLENDER / MAKES 2 cups

  • INGREDIENTS
    • 1 c raw ALMONDS
    • 2 c WATER
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Soak ALMONDS overnight
    2. Drain and rinse thoroughly
    3. Remove skins (optional)
    4. Add WATER and blend until smooth
    5. Drain and squeeze through a cheesecloth
    6. Save the pulp for other uses if desired
Posted in RECIPES

How to Cook Quinoa

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

The secret for fluffy cooked quinoa is to cook it UNCOVERED, then steam it COVERED.

PREP 5 min / LOW HEAT AFTER BOIL / COOK 10 min / COVER AND STEAM 5 MINUTES / SERVES 4

  • INGREDIENTS
    • 1 c QUINOA
    • 1 3/4 c WATER
    • SALT to taste
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Wash QUINOA thoroughly under running water to eliminate bitter taste
    2. Combine 1 cup QUINOA, 1 3/4 cup WATER, and SALT to taste; stir lightly
    3. Bring to a boil and cook Uncovered for 10 minutes or until water is absorbed
    4. Cover and steam 5 minutes more
    5. Fluff with a fork
Posted in RECIPES

Granola

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

This basic granola recipe can BE VARIED to suit your taste, your nutritional needs, and to use what you have on hand.

PREP 15 min / 300 F/ BAKE 30 min / MAKES 3 cups

  • INGREDIENTS
    • 2 cups WHOLE ROLLED OATS
    • 1/2 cup CHOPPED NUTS (WALNUTS, ALMONDS, PECANS)
    • 2 tsp CINNAMON
    • 1/2 tsp SALT
    • 2 Tbsp OLIVE OIL
    • 1/4 cup MAPLE SYRUP
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Preheat oven to 300 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
    2. Combine OATS, NUTS, CINNAMON, and SALT
    3. Drizzle in OLIVE OIL and MAPLE SYRUP
    4. Stir until combined
    5. Scoop th mixture onto baking sheet and press to about 1 inch thick
    6. Bake 15 minutes, then gentle break apart just a bit. Bake 15 minutes more until golden brown
    7. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup of RAISINS if desired

Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Fava Bean (Habas)

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Fava beans are rich in iron, phosphorous, magnesium, and manganese. One serving packs 106% of the daily requirement of folates, important for preventing birth defects.

Fava beans, sometimes called horse beans or broad beans (español: habas) come from a species of flowering plant in the Fabaceae pea and bean family. It is widely cultivated as a crop for human consumption. Eating these beans regularly may have benefits for symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, help prevent birth defects, boost immunity, aid weight loss and lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Recipe for Mexican Sopa de Habas

Nutrition: 3.5 oz (100 g) fava beans
calories341
calcium10% DV
carbohydrates58.29 g
copper41% DV
fat1.53 g
fiber25 g
folate106% DV
iron52% DV
magnesium54% DV
manganese77% DV
niacin19% DV
phosphorous60% DV
potassium23% DV
protein26.12 g
riboflavin28% DV
selenium12% DV
thiamine48% DV
zinc33% DV
vitamin B628% DV
SOURCES: WIKIPEDIA / HEALTHLINE
Posted in RESOURCES

The Nitty-Gritty of Mexican Food

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Tacos, tacos dorados, flautas, enchiladas, quesadillas, chilaquiles, enfrijoladas, entomatadas, gorditas…all start with the humble corn tortilla.

If you put food in a tortilla, it’s a taco. If you put it in hot oil, it’s a taco dorado. Oh, but if you roll it up before you put it in the oil, it’s a flauta. And if you douse it with guajillo chile, it’s an enchilada. Now, if you put cheese in it, it’s a quesadilla. And if you put the salsa and the cheese on the outside, it magically turns into a Swiss enchilada. And when you tear that tortilla into bits, submerge it in oil and then add cheese and chile, it is transformed into chilaquiles. However, if you put it in the frying pan and bathe it in beans, you have enfrijoladas. But if instead of beans you use tomato sauce, you have made them into entomatadas. Gorditas (literally “little fatties”) are fat tortillas filled with meat, beans, or whatever the heck you want.

Posted in RECIPES

Broccoli Steamed with Garlic

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Roasted sweet potatoes can be served as they are or scooped out and used in a variety of dishes.

PREPCOOKTEMPSERVES
30 min5 minMEDIUM HEAT4
  • INGREDIENTS
    • 1 lb FRESH BROCCOLI
    • 1/4 c COLD WATER
    • 1 Tbsp extra-virgin OLIVE OIL
    • 4-6 cloves GARLIC, finely chopped
    • SALT, to taste
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Trim off the bottoms from the broccoli stalks and cut off the main stem of each stalk; peel away the fibrous layer and cut into small pieces. Break the broccoli into bite-size pieces.
    2. Rinse and drain the BROCCOLI. Place in a pot with ¼ cup cold water, 1 Tbsp OLIVE OIL, SALT to taste, and 4-6 cloves of GARLIC. Add RED PEPPER FLAKES (optional) if you wish
    3. Bring to a boil, cover tightly, and steam until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender, no more than 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve at once.

ABOUT BROCCOLI

Broccoli Facts

Broccoli, which has more protein than most other vegetables, is also high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and potassium.

Garlic Facts

Garlic has been used as a traditional medicine as well as a food flavoring. It is a healthy and delicious addition to many dishes around the world. Its medicinal benefits for both cure and prevention require larger doses, which should be taken with the supervision and advice of a knowledgeable medical practitioner.

Posted in RECIPES, Soups

Lentil and Potato Soup

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Simple vegan ingredients with Spanish flair.

PREP 20 min / STOVETOP medium, then low / COOK 20-25 min / MAKES 8 servings

  • INGREDIENTS
    • 3 Tbsp OLIVE OIL
    • 1 SMALL ONION, finely chopped
    • 4 GARLIC CLOVES, roughly chopped
    • 2 tsp SMOKED SPANISH PAPRIKA
    • 1 tsp CUMIN
    • 1/2 c TOMATO SAUCE
    • 2 MEDIUM POTATOES, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 1 c DRY LENTILS, rinsed
    • 5 c VEGETABLE BROTH
    • 1 BAY LEAF
    • SALT to taste
    • FRESH GROUND PEPPER to taste
    • 2 BAGUETTE SLICES
    • 4 GARLIC CLOVES, whole, peeled
    • 1/4 c FRESH PARSLEY, chopped
    • SALT, to taste
    • FRESHLY CRACKED BLACK PEPPER, to taste
  • INSTRUCTIONS
    1. Saute the chopped ONION in the OLIVE OIL until transparent; add chopped GARLIC and continue to saute, taking care not to burn it
    2. Add the SMOKED PAPRIKA and CUMIN; stir lightly
    3. Add the TOMATO SAUCE, stir the mixture well, and continue cooking about 5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken
    4. Stir in the chopped POTATOES and DRY LENTILS and give it all a quick mix
    5. Add the VEGETABLE BROTH and the BAY LEAF, bring the mixture to a boil, lower the heat and continue cooking over low heat for about 20 minutes until the LENTILS and the POTATOES are tender
    6. Make a paste of the BAGUETTE SLICES, GARLIC CLOVES, and PARSLEY and stir it into the soup while it is still cooking
    7. Season the soup to taste with SALT and PEPPER just before turning off the heat
Posted in NUTRIENTS

Fiber

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

What does fiber do?
Fiber promotes weight loss, lowers blood sugar, fights constipation, boosts heart health, feeds friendly gut bacteria, and reduces cancer risk.

How much do I need?
Recommended daily amounts for adults and adolescents are between 22 and 38 grams, depending on the number of calories consumed. Most Americans consume only about 15 grams.

Are supplements recommended?
Fiber supplements can be a helpful, temporary tool for improving digestive health. Use them if you cannot meet your daily needs (25-30g) through diet alone, to address specific issues like constipation, or for overall digestive health. Start with a small amount and increase gradually. Drink plenty of fluids, as fiber absorbs water and can cause constipation if taken without enough liquid.

What are some good plant food sources of fiber?
CHICKPEAS, LENTILS, SPLIT PEAS, OATS, APPLES, PEARS, ALMONDS, CHIA SEEDS, BRUSSELS SPROUTS, AVOCADO.
 Dietary fiber is naturally present in edible plants, either as soluble (digestible) or insoluble fiber. Soluble fibers come from the insides of plants and include substances such as pectin. They are present in fruits, vegetables, oats, and barley and may help manage blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Insoluble fibers come from the outer skins of plants and pass straight through the digestive system. They can help prevent constipation. Examples include bran, celery, whole grains, and seeds.

Source: Healthline

Fiber-Rich Foods

Avocado Facts *superfood*

Avocados improve heart health; support eye, skin, and hair health; fight cancer cell growth; promote weight loss; enhance digestive health; protect against diabetes; and decrease arthritis symptoms.

Lentil Facts

Low in calories, high in protein, fiber, B Vitamins, iron, folate, magnesium, zinc, and potassium.

Oat Facts

Oats are a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Apple Facts

Apples are rich in simple sugars like fructose, sucrose, and glucose, but their glycemic index (GI) is low, 29–44.

Almond Facts

Almonds are rich in Vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese Almond is the edible seed of Prunus dulcis, a species of tree native to Iran but widely cultivated elsewhere. It is classified with the peach in the subgenus Amygdalus, distinguished from the other subgenera by corrugations on the shell surrounding the seed. Almonds are sold shelled…

Chia Seed Facts

Chia is a flowering plant in the mint family, native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala. It is rich in calcium, phosphorous, and other minerals.

Brussels Sprouts Facts

Brussels sprouts are low in calories but high in many nutrients, especially fiber, vitamin K and vitamin C.

Posted in NUTRIENTS

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

What does thiamin do? This vitamin plays a critical role in energy metabolism and, therefore, in the growth, development, and function of cells. Thiamin (or thiamine) is one of the water-soluble B vitamins. It is also known as vitamin B1. Thiamin is naturally present in some foods, added to some food products, and available as a dietary supplement.

How much do I need? The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for adult males the RDA is 1.2 mg daily. For adult females 18 years of age, the RDA is 1 mg daily. For adult females 19 years and older, the RDA is 1.1 mg daily.

Are supplements recommended?
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) supplements are generally only necessary if you have a diagnosed deficiency, are at high risk (e.g., alcohol dependency, bariatric surgery, chronic illness), or are advised by a doctor. It is crucial for converting food into energy and supports nerve/heart health, with deficiencies leading to fatigue, muscle weakness, or memory issues.

What are some good plant food sources of thiamin? Good plant food sources of thiamin are FORTIFIED CEREALS, BLACK BEANS, ACORN SQUASH, and BROWN RICE.

FOODMG OF THIAMIN PER SERVINGPERCENT DV
Breakfast cereals, fortified with 100% of the DV for thiamin, 1 serving1.2100
Black beans, boiled, ½ cup0.433
Macaroni, whole wheat, cooked, 1 cup0.217
Acorn squash, cubed, baked, ½ cup0.217
Rice, brown, long grain, not enriched, cooked, ½ cup0.217
Rice, white, long grain, enriched, cooked, ½ cup0.18
Bread, whole wheat, 1 slice0.18
Orange juice, prepared from concentrate, 1 cup0.18
Sunflower seeds, toasted, 1 ounce0.18
Oatmeal, regular and quick, unenriched, cooked with water, ½ cup0.18
Corn, yellow, boiled, 1 medium ear0.18
Barley, pearled, cooked, 1 cup0.18

Source: National Institutes of Health

Thiamin-Rich Foods

Oat Facts

Oats are a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Corn Facts

Corn is a significant source of COMPLEX CARBOHYDRATES, VITAMIN B1, VITAMIN B3, VITAMIN B5, VITAMIN B9, PHOSPHOROUS, and MAGNESIUM. Corn, or maize, (español: maíz) was domesticated by indigenous peoples in southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago. It has become a staple food in many parts of the world, with the total production surpassing that of wheat or rice. Sugar-rich varieties called sweet corn are…

Posted in RECIPES, Salads

Easy Salad Dressings

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Salad dressings are healthy and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Add or subtract ingredients to your taste. If it tastes good to you, it’s a win! Here are some ideas to get you started.

Whisk, shake, or blend: Citrus Basil / Cilantro Lime / Maple Mustard / Lemon Poppy Seed / Greek Yogurt / Peanut / Vinaigrette

PREP TIME15 min or less
  • CITRUS BASIL
    • BLEND UNTIL SMOOTH
      • 1 cup BASIL LEAVES
      • 1 Tbsp DIJON MUSTARD
      • 3 Tbsp FLAVORLESS OIL (SUCH AS AVOCADO)
      • 1 ORANGE
      • 1 LIME
      • SALT TO TASTE
      • PEPPER TO TASTE
  • CILANTRO LIME
    • BLEND UNTIL SMOOTH
      • 1 small AVOCADO
      • 1 handful CILANTRO
      • 1 LIME
      • 1-2 Tbsp WATER
  • MAPLE MUSTARD
    • PLACE IN A SEALABLE JAR AND SHAKE UNTIL BLENDED
      • 1 Tbsp MAPLE SYRUP
      • 1 Tbsp DIJON MUSTARD
      • 1 Tbsp BALSAMIC VINEGAR
      • 6 Tbsp FLAVORLESS OIL (SUCH AS AVOCADO)
  • LEMON POPPY SEED
    • PLACE IN A SEALABLE JAR AND SHAKE UNTIL BLENDED
      • 6 Tbsp EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
      • 1 Tbsp DIJON MUSTARD
      • 1 Tbsp BALSAMIC VINEGAR
      • 1 Tbsp POPPY SEEDS
      • 1 Tbsp HONEY
      • 1 LEMON
      • SALT TO TASTE
  • GREEK YOGURT
    • PLACE IN A SEALABLE JAR AND SHAKE UNTIL BLENDED
      • 2 Tbsp MAYONNAISE
      • 1 Tbsp PLAIN GREEK YOGURT
      • 1 tsp DIJON MUSTARD
      • 2 Tbsp WATER
      • SALT TO TASTE
      • PEPPER TO TASTE
      • 1/4 c FRESH HERBS (SUCH AS BASIL, PARSLEY, CILANTRO, DILL or a mix of any or all of them)
  • PEANUT
    • PLACE IN A SEALABLE JAR AND SHAKE UNTIL BLENDED
      • 2 Tbsp SMOOTH PEANUT BUTTER
      • 1 tsp GRATED GINGER
      • 1 tsp GRATED GARLIC
      • 1 Tbsp SOY SAUCE
      • 1 tsp SESAME OIL
      • 1 LIME
      • 1-2 Tbsp WATER
  • VINAIGRETTE
    • PLACE IN A SEALABLE JAR AND SHAKE UNTIL BLENDED
      • 2 Tbsp LEMON JUICE
      • 1/2 tsp DIJON MUSTARD
      • 3 Tbsp OLIVE OIL
      • 1 Tbsp HHONEY
Posted in FEATURED, PLANT FOOD FACTS

Walnut Facts

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Walnuts are an excellent source of OMEGA-3 and OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS, COPPER, PHOSPHOROUS, VITAMIN B6, MANGANESE, ELLAGIC ACID, CATECHIN, MELATONIN, and PHYTIC ACID. Some benefits of eating walnuts are heart health, prevention of cancer, bone health, immune system function, nerve health, regulation of body clock. Walnuts (Juglans regia) are a tree nut belonging to the walnut family. They originated in the Mediterranean region and Central Asia and have been part of the human diet for thousands of years. Even though walnuts are rich in fat and calories, studies indicate that they don’t increase obesity risk when replacing other foods in your diet. Walnuts are richer in polyunsaturated fats than most other nuts. The most abundant one is an omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid. They are the only nuts that contain a relatively high percentage of the healthy omega-3 fat alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is beneficial for heart health and helps reduce inflammation and improve the composition of blood fats. Walnuts are very healthy, but some people are allergic and must avoid them. Phytic acid may impair mineral absorption, though this is usually of no concern to people who eat a balanced diet.

Posted in PLANT FOOD FACTS

Spinach Facts

Posted on by Mary Ann Lesh

Spinach (español: espinacas) is a leafy green flowering plant whose leaves are consumed cooked or raw. Spinach is a good source of VITAMIN C, IRON, POTASSIUM, VITAMIN E, and MAGNESIUM. The possible health benefits of consuming spinach include blood glucose control, lower risk of cancer, and improved bone health. As part of a nutritious diet, it can help support immune function, aid the digestive system, may even have anticancer properties. Spinach is typically safe to consume as part of a well-rounded, nutritious diet, but some people may benefit from limiting their intake of this vegetable. Spinach is rich in dietary oxalate, which can increase a person’s risk of kidney stones. The high oxalate content may be reduced by steaming. Spinach contains:

  • Alpha-lipoic acid
    • an antioxidant which lowers glucose levels, increases insulin sensitivity, and prevents oxidative, stress-induced changes in patients with diabetes.
  • Vitamin K
    • Scientists have found a link between low intakes of vitamin K and a higher risk of bone fracture. Vitamin K acts as a modifier of bone matrix proteins, improves calcium absorption, and may reduce the amount of calcium that leaves the body in urine.
  • Protein and carbohydrates.
    • Most of the calories from protein and carbohydrates, which play important roles in the body, from maintaining eye health to reducing inflammation.
  • Chlorophyll
    • Research suggests chlorophyll may have anticancer properties and that people who eat diets rich in green vegetables may have a lower risk of cancer.
  • Potassium
    • It can help reduce the effects of sodium in the body. A low potassium intake might be as potent a risk factor for developing high blood pressure as a high sodium intake.
  • Fiber and water
    • Both help prevent constipation and promote a healthy digestive tract.
  • Vitamin A
    • It moderates oil production in the skin pores and hair follicles to moisturize the skin and hair. A buildup of this oil can lead to acne. Vitamin A is necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair.
  • Vitamin C
    • It is crucial for building and maintaining collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair.
  • Iron
    • Iron deficiency is a common cause of hairloss, which a person can help prevent with a diet of sufficient iron-rich foods, such as spinach.
1 cup of spinach contains%DV
CALORIES7
PROTEIN0.86G
CALCIUM29.7MG
IRON0.81G
MAGNESIUM24MG
POTASSIUM167MG
VITAMIN A (RETINOL)141MCG
VITAMIN B9 (FOLATE)58MCG
SOURCE: MEDICAL NEWS TODAY / WIKIPEDIA