Need a boost? Dig in!!

Nettle: (pictured on the left) has Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, C, K, beta-carotene, Calcium, iron, Potassium and Magnesium...it is an excellent cleanser, BUT it should ALWAYS be cooked before consumption an gloves should be worn when handling this herb.  Its a diuretic attributes help eliminate from the body waste products associated with conditions such as acne, arthritis and gout.  It also fortifies the immune system, therefore is an excellent choice when recovering from illnesses. It is also used widely in the fight against cancer.

Watercress: Rich in Vitamin B3, B6, C, E, K, Calcium, Manganese, Iron, Zinc, Glucoinolates, Fiber, beta-carotene (and other carotenoids as well).  This salad leaf has (plant) chemicals that boost the activity of cancer-preventing enzymes.  Is great for resisting infections and has the vitamins necessary for a fully functioning immune system. 

Spinach: Nutrient rich in Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Carotenoids, Foliate, Vitamins B2, B3, C and E.  Also a great dark green leafy infection fighter.  This
"miracle in a leaf" helps to fight against, lung, breast and cervical cancers, as well as heart disease.  It's excellent for skin and mucous membrane health.  This leaf should be eater raw or slightly cooked as over cooking removes very essential vitamins (such as Vitamin C and the carotenoids).  Sounds like a lot to swallow...OK, no problem.  Just eat lots of Spinach.

Pumpkin: Yes the Halloween veggie.  It's the most popular of the winter squashes and is packed with cancer-fighting chemicals.  Rich in Vitamin C, beta-carotene and fiber.  Great for immune function and can help to fight against colds and aid in our overall resistance to diseases.  Because it contains fiber, it helps to lower cholesterol and promotes good digestion by encouraging the elimination of waste matter.  Again, this veggie is good for you, eat up.  Try it with different spices and additives...makes for a very tasty and interestingly addictive dish.

Brazil Nut: Okay, grab a seat...this nut is awesome.  To those of you with nut allergies, I'm so sorry for you.  The Brazil nut contains, Vitamin B1, E, Calcium, Protein, Iron, Magnesium, Selenium, Zinc, Omega-6 fatty acids, Fiber, Protein, Glutathione and Biotin.  Are you impressed yet?  Well there's more, it helps prevent pre-mature aging, strengthens the immune system, prevents cancer, heart disease and helps to halt the development of tumors.  The presence of Omega-6's helps ease inflammation in the body, it enhances digestion and improves the appearance of our skin.  The Brazil Nut is a very satisfying snack and can also be used to top salads, a great additive (with a protein kick).

The grapefruit: This tangy and sharp tasting breakfast fruit is immune strengthening and detoxifying. Contains Beta-carotene, foliate, fiber, lycopene, vitamin C and flavonoids.  Great for tissue growth, helps to eliminate toxins and waste, the pulp is high in pectin (a soluble fiber that binds with excess cholesterol and removes it from the body.

Bananas: This sweet fruit has moderate releasing sugars that give us an energy boost. (I typically have one 30 mins or so before an early morning workout).  Nutrient rich in magnesium, manganese, potassium, fiber, Vitamins C, E, B3, B5, B6 and Biotin.  This fruit works with other vitamins to produce virus fighting substances such as interferon, it also works to regulate bodily fluids and improve nerve function. 

 Grapes: Another sweet fruit that cleanses and detoxifies. They help improve circulation and overall heart health.  They are great for gathering free radicals in our body and improve our skin, liver function, kidneys and bowels.  They also contain cancer-preventing ellagic acids.  They contain: Vitamin B3, B6, Biotin, Potassium, Selenium, Zinc, Anthocyanins, Ellagic acid. 







Okay, here it comes....the disclaimer:  I am not suggesting that you sit with a bowl of grapes and bananas and tubs of spinach and watercress.  Everything in moderation...everything!!!!!  Am I saying you should have these in your diet, absolutely.  And I am also suggesting here that instead of reaching for unnatural means of attaining essential vitamins and minerals that you opt for a more realistic and healthy choice...and ones that are guaranteed.  Some of these are healthy snack options for that "on the go person".  So avoid food shopping for a week and head to your local farmers market or green grocers...look for these amazing foods.  You will be in for a treat: look out great skin, heart health and tons of energy!!  Let me know how you feel, nature is calling YOUR name!!

Next we discuss some herbs and spices that can be added to your foods that also have great properties and make a dull dish downright EXOTIC!