The Cocoa Effect

Posted on April 30, 2009

hot-chocolateIf you’re determined to get your antioxidants from dark chocolate, the best source is cocoa powder, and one of the best ways to consume cocoa is a mug of steamy hot chocolate. Researchers at Cornell University in New York have shown that hot cocoa has more antioxidants per cup than red wine or tea. Plus, the milk gives you a good dose of calcium. If you are watching your weight, you might want to use skim milk and an artificial sweetener. Read more www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2003

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More Omega-3 in Wild or Farm-Raised Salmon?

Posted on April 30, 2009

Salmon for DinnerThere is no definitive answer to this question because so many variables need to be considered, including the diet of the fish. In general, farmed-fish that are fed fishmeal and fish oil tend to have more omega-3s than those fed a grain-based diet heavy on vegetable oils (a common choice because it is cheaper). Wild fish eat a naturally varied diet, including krill and other sea creatures, plus algae. All “Atlantic salmon” is farm-raised, a reality stemming from the fact that wild sources have been depleted from the ocean. All “Alaskan salmon” is wild, and much of it is canned. The “Pacific species,” including coho (silver) and Chinook (king) can be wild or farmed. Bottom line: On the whole, it is probably safe to say that wild-caught and farm-raised salmon have approximately the same amount of omega-3s. Read more www.sierraclub.org/e-files/wild_salmon.asp; www.edf.org/seafoodwww.edf.wa.gov;   www.blueocean.org; www.montereyabyaquarium.org.

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Homemade Fruit and Vegetable Wash

Posted on April 30, 2009

No need to pay for commercial products to clean your fresh produce when you can make your own. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cider or white distilled vinegar with 1 pint of water. Let your fruits and vegetables soak for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry. While the exact effectiveness of any solution (store-bought or homemade) is difficult to measure, most experts agree that vinegar, bleach, or iodine (I prefer vinegar because it does not leave a chemical taste) is a useful agent in killing certain bacteria and removing some pesticides. If the drinking water in your vicinity has been deemed unsafe, if you live in a developing nation, or you are in the aftermath of a natural disaster, it is highly advisable to wash all fresh produce with some form of anti-bacterial solution.

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Prune Power

Posted on April 15, 2009

prunes1Not just for constipation anymore, prunes spell serious antioxidants. Lately these dark, wrinkly fruits have come in #1 on the anti-oxidant score sheet, beating raisins, ranked second, and blueberries, third. According to a recent study by Tufts University in Boston, these powerful morsels may help slow the aging process of both the body and brain. Bottom line: Eat prunes or drink prune juice. Read more www.sunsweetdryers.com.

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