| Healthy food components include calories |
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Healthy food components include calories
(NC)—Calories often get a bad rap as the demon in food, but that's quite unfair, nutritionists say. Calorie counts are a measure of the energy potential we are giving our body and they should therefore be revered as life-sustaining fuel. Quality calories
The HASS Avocado Board reports avocados contribute more than 20 vitamins and minerals as well as phytonutrients, which are thought to help prevent various chronic illnesses. Research also supports that the consumption of tomatoes delivers significant, lycopene, a vital anti-oxidant thought to help in the fight against cancerous cell formation, as well as other complications and disease.
“I look for brands that underscore the wholesomeness of healthy foods,” says Jennifer Schaertl, an executive chef and author of Gourmet Meals in Crappy Little Kitchens. “The Wholly Guacamole line, for example, is preservative-free and made with the freshest chunks of hand-scooped avocado, so the recipe is naturally packed with nutrients, antioxidants, plus many heart-healthy compounds— including the good, monounsaturated fat known to help reduce bad cholesterol.” If you're pressed for time, Chef Schaertl points out that this all-natural, refrigerated product can be purchased ready-made in your grocery produce section for the easiest summer dip, the tastiest sandwich spread, or as a sensational topper for grilled meats. “Nutritional value plays a big role in the products I buy and there's nothing like an avocado-based food,” she continued. “I add nutrition and save time by having Wholly Guacamole around at all times. The blend of avocado plus flavours of onion, peppers and spices is loaded with health promoting nutrients, which I feel good about incorporating into recipes like crab cakes, or offering it as a condiment to meats.” The calorie count for guacamole is only 25 per tablespoon. This is generally half the calories of a spinach dip, and according to Chef Schaertl, it represents 75 per cent less fat than most ranch-style and mayonnaise dips, spreads and toppings. www.newscanada.com |
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(NC)—With the cost of food on the rise, there's no better time to start growing your own organic herbs, fruits and vegetables. The best part about incorporating edible items into the garden (aside from the taste and health benefits) is that you don't need to be an avid gardener or have a large garden space to get started.
