Why Green Beans are Essential for a Healthy Diet


Steamed Green Beans In A Red Bowl

Steamed Green Beans


What Are Green Beans?

Technically green beans are classified as a fruit. They fit the scientific definition of a fruit since they are pods containing seeds. But as far as the dinner table goes, we use them as a vegetable side dish for lunch or dinner. Preparation includes steaming, sautéing, eating raw or cooking in water.

The Health Benefits of Green Beans

  • They contain folate and potassium, nutrients that promote heart health.
  • They contain soluble fiber that helps to lower LDL cholesterol.
  • They contain Vitamin K, an important nutrient for healthy bones.
  • They contain Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, Iron and Potassium.
  • They help to control hunger due to the high soluble fiber content.
  • They are low glycemic with a glycemic index of 30.
  • They are low in calories. One cup contains 31 calories.
  • The Vitamin K content helps to improve bone health.

Understanding Anti-Inflammatory Foods and Their Benefits


Processed food.

A Meal of Processed Food

A healthy lunch of grilled salmon garnished with greens and lemon.

Grilled Salmon with Fresh Greens


What Are Anti-Inflammatory Foods

An anti-inflammatory diet is a style of eating that eliminates certain foods that are known to cause inflammation in the body. Examples are pre-packaged desserts, snack foods, processed meats, processed cheeses, sugary beverages, and fried foods. Chronic internal inflammation can lead to damaging internal organs.

Chronic Health Conditions Associated with Inflammation
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Heart Disease
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Obesity, Psoriasis
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Type 1 Diabetes
  • Ulcerative Colitis
Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods To Include In Your Diet
  • Green Leafy Vegetables
  • Salmon, Tuna, Mackerel, Herring
  • Legumes
  • Nuts and Seeds
  • Avocados
  • Olive Oil

Dates Make A Great Pre-Workout Snack

Medjool dates arranged on a colorful serving plate.

Dates Provide A Healthy and Filling Snack Prior To Exercise


The Benefits of Eating Dates

Medjool Dates

Dates are known as a stone fruit meaning they have a single seed surrounded by an outer fleshy fruit similar to mangoes, peaches and olives. There are many varieties of dates. Pictured in this post are the large Medjool variety.

Dates contain natural sugars and have a sweet, caramel, chewy taste. They are an energy boosting soft fruit with impressive health benefits. Eat them at least an hour before exercise to allow time for digestion.

Nutrients In Dates

  • Selenium
  • Magnesium
  • Calcium
  • Potassium
  • Copper
  • Fiber
  • B Vitamins: Pantothenic Acid, Folate, Niacin
  • Vitamins C, A and K
  • Antioxidants
  • Low Glycemic Index

The Benefits of Eating Pumpkin Seeds


Why You Should Eat Raw Unsalted Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are the edible seeds from pumpkins. They have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and are a good source of plant protein comparable to soy protein. Pumpkin seeds are very filling and make a great snack. In addition, they contain important minerals.

Where To Buy Raw Pumpkin Seeds

Packaged Raw Pumpkin Seeds are sold at Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and Amazon.

Raw Unsalted Pumpkin seeds contain the following minerals.

  • Phosphorus
  • Potassium
  • Magnesium
  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Zinc
  • Sodium
  • Manganese
  • Copper

For Cat Lovers: A Special Cozy Nest Bed For Winter Warmth


The most adorable kitty bed is sold online at Lapcatz.com. It’s called the Nest Bed. Visit their website to see photographs, videos and to place an order.

Nest Bed Kitty Benefits

  • Eases arthritic joint pain
  • Provides a quiet and calming space for kitty to relax
  • A perfect place to rest and recover
  • Provides a safe place
  • Provides warmth during cold winters
  • Machine washable
  • Non-toxic pet friendly materials
  • 99 day trial
  • Memory foam base