KTK-Nutrition

Fruits and Veggies – so good for our health.   The September 2018 issue of Consumer Reports has great health articles.   Everything from healthy leafy greens to Fruit and Veggie Superpowers .   Most people know that fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber that we need for good health.   But unlike some other foods , fruits and veggies are also loaded with “phytochemicals”.   Sounds bad to have chemicals in our food. But these “phytochemicals” actually help us prevent disease, reduce cell damage and help fight inflammation.   A win-win for our health.   An interesting fact is that different fruit and veggies have different phytochemicals.   So, eating a variety of fruits and veggies is actually better for your health than just eating an apple or a banana every day.   (But I do eat a banana EVERY DAY, but vary other fruit and veggies I eat.) So, what are some of fruits in the article 10 Super-Healthy Sumer Fruits and ...

Are there foods that “feed” the brain?   Well, berries have been found to promote brain health as well as heart health.   Which berries and what health effects do they have? Our doorbell rang at 9 this morning.   Our neighbor was standing there with 2 quarts of strawberries he had just purchased at the Farmer’s Market.   Strawberries are not only loaded with many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, there are also one of the berries known to promote healthy brains. Why are berries so healthy? Berries are rich in antioxidants – in fact they have found that berries have some of the highest antioxidant levels of any fresh fruits.    Antioxidants aren’t vitamins or minerals but plant chemicals that protect the plant and have been found to have many health benefits when we eat these plants.     The differing color of the berries means they provide different antioxidants.   Berries that are red, blue or purple provide anthocyanin, ...

Have you been to a Farmer’s Market yet this spring?   A little early in some parts of the country but we are enjoying fresh asparagus and fresh strawberries.   So many fresh fruits will be available soon.   Choosing fruits of different colors is important to good health.   Why?   Because each color has unique health benefits.   Fruits are good sources of vitamins A and C and of fiber but also antioxidants.   Different color fruits provide different antioxidants.   Not only are vitamins and minerals good for your health but so are antioxidants.   They help prevent cancer, heart disease, and improve eye health, help your bones, and fruits like blueberries have been shown to improve memory.     The article, Berry Good Health , discusses the many benefits of eating fruit, especially berries.   For good health, vary the fruit, vary the color.   Aim for at least 5 fruits and vegetables a day.   Enjoy fruit, fresh, froz...