The Avocado Store

avocado nails

Following an alkaline diet and eating alkaline foods is one of the very best things you can do for your health. It can prevent disease and illness and keep you looking young and full of vitality, as well as help you to lose weight

Check out this list of 7 wonderful and easy to find alkaline foods that you should include in your diet almost every day:

1. Spinach - In general, all dark green leafy vegetables are alkaline foods. Spinach fall into this category and is highly alkalizing. The chlorophyll contained in the green pigment is pure sunlight energy and highly alkalizing to our bodies. It is most beneficial eaten raw, in salads or even juiced with some other alkaline foods, such as...

2. Avocado - one of the only alkaline fruits, it makes a great smoothie when blended with spinach, cucumber and pineapple (pineapple is not alkaline but we are looking to achieve a 70:30 balance between alkaline and acidic foods, so this is ok ☺). Avocado is also packed full of essential omega oils, for a healthy heart and great skin, hair and nails, as well as maintaining good joint functionality.

3. Celery - With virtually zero calories in it and full of nutrients, you can't really go wrong with celery. It's great to eat celery sticks raw with houmous dip, or chop it up in your spinach salads, with some seeds and almonds, or make a cabbage and celery soup if you like. Celery loses its bitter taste when cooked but remember that cooking also destroys some of the vitamins and minerals and makes it less alkaline.

4. Tomatoes - our little round red friends are fantastic alkaline foods and, like avocadoes, one of the only alkaline fruits. Tomatoes contain lycopene, which can help to prevent against heart attacks. However, lycopene it is not well absorbed into the body unless the tomatoes are cooked. Thus, the best sources are concentrated tomato products like tomato paste, ketchup and tomato juice. Also, vine-ripened tomatoes contain more lycopene than ones that are picked before they fully ripen.

Tomatoes are so abundant, tasty and versatile, there's no excuse for not eating them every day!

5. Broccoli - broccoli contains loads of cancer preventing/fighting anti-oxidants and it is also a good source of folate, iron, fibre, potassium and vitamin K, and has more calcium than a glass of milk (milk is acidic by the way too).

6. Cucumber - like celery, there are virtually no calories in cucumber, just water, nutrients and chlorophyll. Cut up into crudités and dip in houmous, or chop into salads. The most alkalizing part of a cucumber is its dark green skin, so eat all of it.

7. Lemons - many people are surprised to learn that lemons are an alkaline food. A fantastic and cheap way to make alkaline water is to squeeze the juice of a couple of lemons into a large jug of fresh water, or a lemon and a lime and drink.

About the Author:

Would you like to know more about alkaline diet and alkaline foods? Get instant access to my free 38-page Alkaline Diet Recipes eBook by going here: Alkaline Diet Recipes Book
Laura Wilson has studied and followed an alkaline diet and fitness regime for 10 years, enbaling her to compete in many marathons, triathlons and other athletic events.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Alkaline Foods For Great Health & Vitality

You don’t have to buy expensive hair products to achieve a beautiful and healthy hair. Some of the best ingredients for your hair are found in your own kitchen. A lot of the upscale hair products available in hair boutiques are made with natural ingredients such as avocado, olive oil, berries, citrus fruits, and green tea—all available in food sections in supermarkets for a fraction of the price of hair products. Making your own homemade hair products is not only cheap, but healthier and more nutritious than commercially available products made in the lab, which are usually mixed with preservatives and chemicals!  Making your own hair care products will ensure it is made from 100% pure and natural ingredients.  

Fruity hair mask

Treat your hair once a week or every two weeks with a luxurious hair mask using strawberry or avocado.  This will keep your hair shiny and revitalized.  Strawberries contain acids that will leave the hair glossy and conditioned. To make a strawberry hair mask, mash eight strawberries and mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise.   On damp or washed hair, massage the mix in your scalp up to the tips of your hair. Cover your head with a shower cap and a warm towel on top and leave it on for 10 minutes.  Wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo and conditioner.  Avocado fruit is another hair shine solution that you can use. Mash an avocado with a teaspoon of baking powder and a tablespoon of olive oil.   Massage the mixture on your scalp and hair, from roots to tips. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes and wash it thoroughly with shampoo and conditioner.      

Repairing dry hair

Cry hair can be easily repaired by massaging your scalp and hair from the roots to the tips, with two drops of safflower oil, flaxseed oil, coconut oil or olive oil.  This will replenish your hair’s lost moisture and repair dry and damaged hair.   

Remedying oily hair   

A quick remedy to oily hair is talcum powder. Apply the talcum powder on the roots of your hair. Hair should be damp and towel-dried before applying. Let the powder sit on your hair for a few minutes before washing it out.

Homemade anti-dandruff solution

To cure or reduce dandruff flakes, pour vinegar on your scalp and massage your scalp gently, taking care not to scratch with your nails. Instead, use the tips of your fingers to loosen the flakes.  Leave your scalp and hair to dry for a few minutes and wash your hair and scalp with shampoo and conditioner.  Do this once a day until the flakes disappear.    

All day hairspray

Hair can get dull and frizzy during the course of the day or under the hot sun.  To keep your hair revitalized and manageable, you can make your own hairspray using lemon or orange.   Chop one lemon or orange fruit and place it in a cup adding two cups water.  Bring the solution to a boil until half of the water evaporates. Let it cool and strain and put the solution in a spray bottle. Store the hairspray in a refrigerator and bring with you as an all-day hair spray that will not damage your hair.  

About the Author:

Brent McNutt enjoys talking about urbane scrubs and landau scrubs and networking with healthcare professionals online.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How to make Your Own Hair Treatments from Kitchen Ingredients

avocado is a nut

Did you know these foods are NOT for animals?

In the Sept./Oct. issue of AARP, there's a notice down on the bottom of page 98 which states: FOOD FRIGHT - "You probably know that chocolate, coffee and alcohol are bad for dogs and cats. But did you also know these common foods can make your pet sick?"

Also:
Dogs - grapes

Vitamin E known as tocopherol, it is a naturally occurring, fat-soluble antioxidant.  The antioxidant property is due to the chromane ring.

Wheat germ oil, cotton seed oil, peanut oil, corn oil and sunflower oil are rich in vitamin E.  It is also present in meat, milk, butter and eggs, asparagus, avocado, egg, milk, nuts, spinach and other green leafy vegetables and wholegrain foods.  It is absorbed along with fat in the small intestine.  Bile salts help in its absorption.  In the liver it is incorporated into the lipoproteins.  It is also stored in adipose tissue, liver and muscle.

Vitamin E is essential to maintain the structure of the membrane and integrity of the cell.  It prevents destruction of the red blood cells, sterility as it maintains germinal epithelium of gonads.  It prevents oxidation of vitamin A and carotenes and also peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in various tissues and membranes.  It is required for proper storage of creatine in skeletal system, absorption of amino acids from intestine.  It is also believed to prevent development of heart disease, delay the onset of cataract by working in association with vitamins A, C and ?-carotene.  It increases the synthesis of heme.  It is required for proper synthesis of nucleic acids and for cellular respiration.

Severe symptoms of vitamin E deficiency are not seen in humans except increased fragility of erythrocytes, appearance of abnormal cellular membrane and minor neurological symptoms. These are mainly associated with a defect in fat absorption and transport.

Vitamin E is the least toxic of all the fat soluble vitamins and hence no toxic effects due to overdosage have been recorded.

About the Author:

To read about weight loss pills and other information, visit the zinc site.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Usefulness of Vitamin E

pregnancy avocado

can u have a normal pregnancy if ur cervix is shaped different. like a avocado?

normal pregnancy yes, but you would have to talk to a doctor about delivery it may mean you may not dialate the same way-- is you are always dialated they can sew you close till your due date

One particular nutrient that should be taken seriously during pregnancy is folic acid. This vitamin from the family of B-vitamins prevents birth defects in a developing baby, aids in cell division and helps in the formation of red blood cells for both mother and baby. Ideally it should be taken 3 months during the pre-conception period to ensure a healthy start and be continued till term.

How much of Folate?

When trying to conceive 400mcg every day for at least a month is the sensible thing to do. Continue with this for at least the first three months of pregnancy. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to anemia causing the woman to feel tired all the time. It is better to continue taking folic acid throughout your pregnancy. While leafy greens and green beans are rich in folate but to depend on natural food sources alone is not advisable; supplements become essential to combat this insufficiency. Folic acid levels are labeled differently; it is best to check with your doctor on the level that is suitable during pregnancy [400 mcg (micrograms), 0.4 mg (milligrams), 400 ?µg (international units)]. Check your multivitamin label to ensure the correct dosage of this vitamin. Some women will require higher doses (5mg) and they include those who:

1. Have had a previous pregnancy affected by neural tube defects

2. Have NTD themselves

3. Have a family history

4. Have a partner with a family history of NTD

The wise thing to do is take your supplements along with foods rich in folate. Examples of such foods are:

Green leafy vegetables especially spinach, broccoli, asparagus

Other vegetables such as green beans, cabbage, peas, cauliflower, avocado

Oranges and other citrus fruits

Breakfast cereals fortified with this vitamin

Eggs, lentils, kidney beans, chick peas, baked beans

Yoghurt & milk

Key Facts

Did you know that during the first trimester, the embryo develops 3 layers of cells? The outer layer will form the neutral tube and this further develops into the brain, spinal cord, nervous system, ears and eyes.

Folate increases birth weight of baby and lowers the risk of growth restriction in the later part of pregnancy, thereby lowering the odds of premature birth

Poor development will cause baby to be born with a neural tube defect (NTD) such as spina bifida (or split spine in layman’s terms). In severe cases babies with this defect may not be able to walk and will face bowel and bladder problems.

Folate lowers the chances of the mother developing preeclampsia

Though not conclusive, some researchers have indicated that folic can prevent the incidence of Down’s syndrome

For the vegetarian mother-to-be some examples of dishes that are folate-rich include chickpeas curry, mixed bean salad, mixed roasted nuts and broccoli and cheese quiche. Water cress, tomatoes, green and red peppers, lettuce and avocado all contain folate; prepare a salad bowl with these.

Important tip FYI: Folate levels decrease in value if groceries are kept or stored so use them fresh. Cooking and washing destroys the nutrients. To get the maximum folate out of your veggies bear these tips in mind:

1. store vegetables in the fridge and use them as soon as possible i.e. the fresher the better

2. serve them raw (uncooked); if cooked vegetables should preferably be steamed, simmered or boiled

About the Author:

Jyoti Bedi, a homemaker and a mother, officially writes for http://www.welcomebabyhome.com , a pregnancy and parenting site. Articles are simple-to-read, relevant and concise for today’s busy parents and parents-to-be

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - The Goodness of Folate (folic Acid)

fried avocado

How many calories in this?

an apple,
an eighths of an avocado,
a few slices of packaged emmental
a cube cucumber
3 tbs sweet pastry
3 tbs saag bhaji (spinach and onion with spices, fried)
3 tbs naan bread.
and a tsp of potato salad

A teaspoon of potato salad?! Give me a break, that's like an extremely small bite.

One thing we should admit is that most people love to eat foods that are high in seasonings. And sometimes these foods can be gotten from foods which are mostly acidic. Well, alkaline diet recipes will be the solution to preventing acid foods.

There can be many ways on how to prepare recipes that will suit our tastes. This can also be done with the fruits and vegetables that are alkaline foods.

You can easily prepare alkaline foods anytime. And here are the suggestions for alkaline juice, soup, snack and dinner.

• Alkaline Juice

This recipe is great for breakfast because it will boost your energy level. It awakens your digestive system while providing nutrition to your body.

You can mix cucumber, celery, spinach, lettuce leaves and any other green leafy vegetables. You can also use parsley and fresh alfalfa as optional boosters. Juice them together and mix 50/50 with distilled water. You can add optional lemon juice. You can also add prime pH to enhance the alkalinity of the juice even more.

• Alkaline Soup

This soup is very advisable while you are on a detox. This recipe contains avocado which is high in EFAs. It also contains cucumber which is well known for its cleansing properties. You can use herbs and spices, lemon and lime.

You will blend the avocado and stock it to form a light paste. After that, you will add spring onions, green or red pepper, cucumber, spinach and garlic. Add Bragg Liquid Aminos, light vegetable Boullion (yeast free) and juice of lemon or lime.

• Alkaline Dinner

For dinner, Detox Lime-Chili Stir 'Fry' is one of the likable alkaline diet recipes. The ingredients are Pak-Choi, carrots, mange-tout/sugar snap peas, beansprouts, broccoli, cabbage (red or green), fresh lime juice, chilli, coriander and vegetable boullion and brown basmati rice/wild rice.

The first thing you should do is to pulp the coriander with the mortar and pestle. And then add chilli and lime juice to make a sauce. Set it aside. And then, you will chop all the vegetables finely. After this you will steam them but do not fully cook so as not to lose the nutrients.

Now, you will cover the cooked stuff over the rice and then put the sauce.

It is so simple yet delicious. You can also steam fry the vegetable in a vegetable boullion stock if you do not have a steamer. If you are into seafood, you can also add prawns.

The amount of each ingredient is dependent upon your choice.

• Alkaline Snack

The alkaline recipe that will surely attract your taste is an asparagus dressed with lemon juice.

The ingredients are asparagus stems (bend towards the end and let them snap naturally), spring onions, melted (avocado) butter, grated lemon peel of half a lemon, fresh lemon juice of a whole lemon and fresh thyme.

Steam the spring onion and asparagus but avoid overcooking. Then mix the avocado butter, lemon juice, thyme and lemon rind to make the dressing. Add some cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil to neutralize the lemon juice a little. Now, stack the spring onion and asparagus and then dress.

About the Author:

These are some of the delicious recipes with alkaline foods. Surely, you will enjoy them. Alkaline diet recipes are delicious and healthy. They are all good for your body. You can get you free alkaline diet chart and a free newsletter when you visit http://www.acidalkalinediet.org.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Alkaline Diet Recipes - Alkalize Your Body With Your Juice, Soup, Snack and Dinner

prawn avocado stack

One thing we should admit is that most people love to eat foods that are high in seasonings. And sometimes these foods can be gotten from foods which are mostly acidic. Well, alkaline diet recipes will be the solution to preventing acid foods.

There can be many ways on how to prepare recipes that will suit our tastes. This can also be done with the fruits and vegetables that are alkaline foods.

You can easily prepare alkaline foods anytime. And here are the suggestions for alkaline juice, soup, snack and dinner.

• Alkaline Juice

This recipe is great for breakfast because it will boost your energy level. It awakens your digestive system while providing nutrition to your body.

You can mix cucumber, celery, spinach, lettuce leaves and any other green leafy vegetables. You can also use parsley and fresh alfalfa as optional boosters. Juice them together and mix 50/50 with distilled water. You can add optional lemon juice. You can also add prime pH to enhance the alkalinity of the juice even more.

• Alkaline Soup

This soup is very advisable while you are on a detox. This recipe contains avocado which is high in EFAs. It also contains cucumber which is well known for its cleansing properties. You can use herbs and spices, lemon and lime.

You will blend the avocado and stock it to form a light paste. After that, you will add spring onions, green or red pepper, cucumber, spinach and garlic. Add Bragg Liquid Aminos, light vegetable Boullion (yeast free) and juice of lemon or lime.

• Alkaline Dinner

For dinner, Detox Lime-Chili Stir 'Fry' is one of the likable alkaline diet recipes. The ingredients are Pak-Choi, carrots, mange-tout/sugar snap peas, beansprouts, broccoli, cabbage (red or green), fresh lime juice, chilli, coriander and vegetable boullion and brown basmati rice/wild rice.

The first thing you should do is to pulp the coriander with the mortar and pestle. And then add chilli and lime juice to make a sauce. Set it aside. And then, you will chop all the vegetables finely. After this you will steam them but do not fully cook so as not to lose the nutrients.

Now, you will cover the cooked stuff over the rice and then put the sauce.

It is so simple yet delicious. You can also steam fry the vegetable in a vegetable boullion stock if you do not have a steamer. If you are into seafood, you can also add prawns.

The amount of each ingredient is dependent upon your choice.

• Alkaline Snack

The alkaline recipe that will surely attract your taste is an asparagus dressed with lemon juice.

The ingredients are asparagus stems (bend towards the end and let them snap naturally), spring onions, melted (avocado) butter, grated lemon peel of half a lemon, fresh lemon juice of a whole lemon and fresh thyme.

Steam the spring onion and asparagus but avoid overcooking. Then mix the avocado butter, lemon juice, thyme and lemon rind to make the dressing. Add some cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil to neutralize the lemon juice a little. Now, stack the spring onion and asparagus and then dress.

About the Author:

These are some of the delicious recipes with alkaline foods. Surely, you will enjoy them. Alkaline diet recipes are delicious and healthy. They are all good for your body. You can get you free alkaline diet chart and a free newsletter when you visit http://www.acidalkalinediet.org.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Alkaline Diet Recipes - Alkalize Your Body With Your Juice, Soup, Snack and Dinner

One thing we should admit is that most people love to eat foods that are high in seasonings. And sometimes these foods can be gotten from foods which are mostly acidic. Well, alkaline diet recipes will be the solution to preventing acid foods.

There can be many ways on how to prepare recipes that will suit our tastes. This can also be done with the fruits and vegetables that are alkaline foods.

You can easily prepare alkaline foods anytime. And here are the suggestions for alkaline juice, soup, snack and dinner.

• Alkaline Juice

This recipe is great for breakfast because it will boost your energy level. It awakens your digestive system while providing nutrition to your body.

You can mix cucumber, celery, spinach, lettuce leaves and any other green leafy vegetables. You can also use parsley and fresh alfalfa as optional boosters. Juice them together and mix 50/50 with distilled water. You can add optional lemon juice. You can also add prime pH to enhance the alkalinity of the juice even more.

• Alkaline Soup

This soup is very advisable while you are on a detox. This recipe contains avocado which is high in EFAs. It also contains cucumber which is well known for its cleansing properties. You can use herbs and spices, lemon and lime.

You will blend the avocado and stock it to form a light paste. After that, you will add spring onions, green or red pepper, cucumber, spinach and garlic. Add Bragg Liquid Aminos, light vegetable Boullion (yeast free) and juice of lemon or lime.

• Alkaline Dinner

For dinner, Detox Lime-Chili Stir 'Fry' is one of the likable alkaline diet recipes. The ingredients are Pak-Choi, carrots, mange-tout/sugar snap peas, beansprouts, broccoli, cabbage (red or green), fresh lime juice, chilli, coriander and vegetable boullion and brown basmati rice/wild rice.

The first thing you should do is to pulp the coriander with the mortar and pestle. And then add chilli and lime juice to make a sauce. Set it aside. And then, you will chop all the vegetables finely. After this you will steam them but do not fully cook so as not to lose the nutrients.

Now, you will cover the cooked stuff over the rice and then put the sauce.

It is so simple yet delicious. You can also steam fry the vegetable in a vegetable boullion stock if you do not have a steamer. If you are into seafood, you can also add prawns.

The amount of each ingredient is dependent upon your choice.

• Alkaline Snack

The alkaline recipe that will surely attract your taste is an asparagus dressed with lemon juice.

The ingredients are asparagus stems (bend towards the end and let them snap naturally), spring onions, melted (avocado) butter, grated lemon peel of half a lemon, fresh lemon juice of a whole lemon and fresh thyme.

Steam the spring onion and asparagus but avoid overcooking. Then mix the avocado butter, lemon juice, thyme and lemon rind to make the dressing. Add some cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil to neutralize the lemon juice a little. Now, stack the spring onion and asparagus and then dress.

About the Author:

These are some of the delicious recipes with alkaline foods. Surely, you will enjoy them. Alkaline diet recipes are delicious and healthy. They are all good for your body. You can get you free alkaline diet chart and a free newsletter when you visit http://www.acidalkalinediet.org.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Alkaline Diet Recipes - Alkalize Your Body With Your Juice, Soup, Snack and Dinner

corn avocado salad

A lot of people are becoming health conscious already. They prefer to prepare their own food to make sure they are eating just healthy foods. They would not know what ingredients are used in commercial foods.

Then again, many of us are busy with our works and personal lives. It is often easier to resort to buying food outside rather than go to the ordeal of preparing our own food in the kitchen. Good thing though that there are now many quick recipes that will only take around 10 minutes to do. These are easy to make and promises to be very healthy.

You could also adapt a few tips on how to make preparations much easier and quicker. The first tip is to use all the possible convenient products available to you. It could be frozen mixed veggies, pasta sauces and many more. It requires little cooking. You could toss them up together in a matter of few minutes with hardly any cooking needed.

Ready the ingredients beforehand if you are thinking of a recipe already. Also prepare the utensils and other items you will need. You could easily cook after coming home if you have all these prepared already.

Think of recipes that only have a few ingredients. These are easier to prepare. You could also use leftovers instead of buying in the grocery. You save time and money. Recipes are not necessarily strictly followed. You could always deviate and make use of what you have in your refrigerator. Just experiment and see what will taste good for you. Be sure to write down what you have used so you could prepare it again next time.

Salads are generally easy to make, plus it is very healthy. Most are made from vegetables and fruits. It could be topped with a dressing or just seasoned to taste. It may also be an appetizer for your main meal.

Green or garden salads are mostly made out of green leafy vegetables like lettuce, cucumbers and cabbages. It may also be topped with mushrooms, carrots, peppers, onions, celery, avocado, and radishes. You could make your own vinaigrette dressing or just buy ready-made in bottles.

Another kind of salad is the entrée. It has toppings like chicken or sea foods. The most common type of green salad known worldwide is the one we called the caesar salad. This is very healthy and offers a complete meal at the same time. You have meat and vegetables already in one dish.

Dressings added to salads vary in different cultures. Vinaigrettes are common in Southern Europe but Asians adopted it too. Mayonnaise is often used in Eastern Europe. Crème Fraiche is the well known Denmark's salad dressings.

Other salad dressings are light edible oils. It may be soybean oil, olive oil and corn oil. Vinegar and cheeses can also be added to complement the taste. There are lots of ingredients that can be made salad dressings. These salad dressings are added to salad to add some flavors to the vegetables or fruits. These are needed because some of the vegetable are taste less. We need something to make it a little sweet or sour to make the salty taste of the fruit or vegetable less.

Salad garnishes also add flavor. It could be bacon bits ( an imitation), beetroot bell peppers, mushrooms, anchovies, sunflower seeds, shredded carrots and many more.

About the Author:

For more information on Salad Shooters & Choppers and Egg Salad Products.Please visit our website.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Vegetable Salad for Dinner

Colombia has some of the most delicious food in South America. Despite this fact, there are few American households that enjoy Colombian Recipes regularly – or even know much about them. When you want to add a little bit of flavor or variety of your meals, Colombian food is easily one of the best choices, as you will have dishes that few people have ever tried in their own home.

Examples of Traditional Colombian Dishes:

• Lechona

Commonly found in both Panama and Colombia, Lechona is pork stuffed with peas, onions and rice, and cooked for an impressive 10 hours in a brick oven to bring out its best flavors. Many Colombian Recipes add a Colombian corn bread to enhance its flavor.

• Sanchocho

Sanchocho is a type of South American soup. Ingredients differ by region, but in Columbian recipes it is common to find potato, vegetables, and nearly any kind of meat imaginable. Each region uses different meats and vegetables, so even Columbian recipes can differ quite a bit.

• Aijaco

Another soup, Aijaco is a type of Columbian potato soup that often has large chunks of meat. In most Columbian recipes the meat will be chicken. You will also find corn, various herbs for flavoring. Like many of the Columbian meals, Aijaco started as a food for peasants before slowly gaining acceptance as a main stream dish.

• Bandeja paisa

Of all of the Columbian recipes available, Bandeja paisa is one of the few that has very strict rules as to what constitutes the “True” dish. The Bandeja paisa contains at minimum 13 different ingredients (these ingredients include white rice, ground meat, red beans, pork rinds, friend eggs, plantain, chorizo, arepa, Hogao saunce, avocado, black pudding, mazamorra, and panella) which are served in a variety of different bowls- it must not be served in a regular plate, and the quantity of many of these items needs to be fairly high. Some areas adjust the ingredients, but those that do are said to not be caring the authentic style.

• Asado

Asado itself is not necessarily a meal. Rather, it is the way that meat is cooked in order to get a certain type of flavor. Though it most often uses beef, it is usually complemented with other meats including chicken, steak, and goat. The meat is fired up in a traditional manner, and most Columbian recipes will add a side salad and some bread to make the meal more traditional.

Finding Columbian Recipes That Suit Your Needs

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Columbian food is that few people have truly experienced it. Though often a variation of other, more popular South American cuisine, the food itself almost always started as food for peasants before its flavors were more mastered and designed to reach the palates of food enthusiasts. You can find recipes for the Colombian dishes above and many others quickly and easily on the FoodieView Recipe Search Engine at www.foodieview.com. If you are looking for a new and exciting meal to feed your family or entertain guests, Columbian food is an excellent choice!

About the Author:

FoodieView is a leading food portal with a recipe search engine providing one-stop access to the Web's best recipes, along with virtual recipe boxes, meal plans, food pics, restaurant guides/reviews, social networking and more.

Find Colombian recipes on FoodieView by typing "Colombian recipes" into the recipe quick search box. You'll have instant access to thousands of the yummiest Colombian recipes on the planet!

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Colombian Recipes

avocado nutritional benefits

what is nutritional value of avocados? what are benefits of consuming them?

avocados are a good source of dietry fibre.

they are also rich in vitamin A, C E and K.

100g of avocados roughly would contain 10 g of fatty acid as well. however these fatty acids are essential in order for your body to be able to absorb the vitamins present in the avocado.

they contain a low amount of sodium and are thus suitable for people on a low fat diet as well.

Benefits of fruits and vegetables

There are many benefits of fruits and vegetables rich diet to our life and health. But, in reality there are only few numbers of people those who choose fruits and vegetable diet.

According to revised NSDA grains, vegetables, fruits, milk and dairy, meat and beans are 5 MAJOR  foods groups, included in the food pyramid. If you want to keep yourself fit and stay healthy forever then it is very important to eat a wide variety of foods from each and every food group listed above. Going for different varieties will not only give you a great deal of variety and keep boredom from setting in, but it will also provide you with the best nutritional balance as well. In addition to macronutrients such as fats, proteins, fiber and water, micronutrients like vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, etc are also vitally important to good health. That is why a healthy, varied diet is so important.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed full of many essential vitamins and minerals, including many micronutrients that you will never be able to find in packaged vitamin supplements. Some foods like pumpkins, carrots, mangoes, peaches butternut squash and green leafy vegetables are rich in beta carotene.  Beta carotene is the best consumable form of Vitamin A and is vital for healthy skin and eyes.

There are many other benefits of fruits and vegetables, besides just their nutritional importance.  Such as:

- Taste, flavors and colors of fruits and vegetables makes it possible that they can be used in virtually every meal.  Those seeking to maximize their diet should get into the healthy habit of using fruits in salads, as toppings and as garnishes.

- Fruits and vegetables help maximize the nutrition. But, try to keep this in mind that proper nutrition comes from a healthy diet, not from vitamin supplements.

Change you life TODAY

CNANGE LIFE NOW

Knowing the five major food groups and how much of each to eat every day is only part of the picture. Choosing good and healthy diet means, choosing things like the leanest cuts of meat, choosing egg substitutes rather than going for whole eggs, picking up freshest fruits and vegetables, etc.

Even with fruits and vegetables, some choices are better than others.  There are some fruits that are packed with fat and calories like avocados. Therefore, it is really necessary to check the nutritional values and qualities of the fruits and vegetables you choose.

Try to go for fiber rich as; adequate fiber intake is also important in preventing heart disease and some kinds of cancer. If you want to lose fat then go for fruits and vegetable those are high in nutrition, low in fat and with low calorie count.  Fruits and vegetables contain very low levels of fats, and a diet low in fat can be quite effective for long term weight loss. Fruits and vegetables contain no cholesterol, and they are lower in calories than many other types of foods.

About the Author:

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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Benefits of fruits and vegetables

avocado recipes for babies

what are some good wheat free recipes for dinner?

any normal recipes, because the sites i was looking at had things like "salmon with watermelon, baby spinach and avocado". lol. So does anyone have any normal wheat free recipes or any good websites?

1 bag egg noodels and 2 cans of cream of chicken soup no added water

boil noodels, drain, add 2 cans condensed soup mix till all nodels are coated spoon into boal

If you want to improve your health and vitality levels then one of the best things you can do is adopt an alkaline diet. I've got 3 great alkaline diet recipes for you

You should aim for a 70:30 ratio of alkaline to acidic foods.

In my and many other people's experience, if you try and eat 100% alkaline foods, it is really too difficult to sustain and doesn't allow for some foods that should be enjoyed sparingly, like fruit.

It is better to go for 70:30 than 'fall off the wagon' completely, trying to achieve a 100% alkaline diet.

Here are 3 easy, quick and tasty alkaline diet recipes: The first is a lovely tasty curry. Herbs and spices are very alkalizing so use these freely in all your food preparation and cooking. The second recipe is a slightly sweet avocado salad. Avocadoes are absolutely wonderful foods - full of Omega 3 essential oils and one for the only alkaline fruits, a real super food. The third recipe is a good old classic salad. You really can't go wrong with eating a big salad every day - dark green leafy vegetables are amazingly alkalizing so knock yourself out Enjoy!

1 - Chickpea and Spinach Curry Number of Servings: 6 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely chopped onion 1-1/2 Tbsp fresh ginger, chopped or grated 1 tsp olive oil or virgin coconut oil 1-1/2 tsp red curry powder 1 19 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes with liquid 1 10 oz bag spinach 1/2 cup water 1/4 tsp salt (optional)

Directions: Put the ginger and onion in a food blender/mixer until it is minced. Heat oil gently in large skillet over medium high heat. Add onion mixture and curry. Sauté 3 minutes. Add chickpeas and tomatoes; simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in spinach, water and salt. Cook another minute or until spinach wilts.

2 - Avocado Fruit Salad Number of serving: 8 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 ripe avocado, seeded and peeled (1/2 sliced into 8 portions, 1/2" cubed) 1-1/2 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp raspberry vinegar 1 tsp grated lime peel 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp fresh chopped basil leaves 1/2 tsp dry mustard 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1 10 oz package mixed baby greens 4 kiwi, peeled and sliced in half rounds 4 grapefruit 2 cups sliced strawberries 2 star fruits, sliced

Directions: Salad Dressing - In a small bowl, whisk together remaining ingredients, set aside. Salad - In a large salad bowl, combine baby greens, kiwi, grapefruit, strawberries and star fruit. Pour on dressing and toss to coat. Top with avocado slices.

3 - Very Veggie Salad Number of Servings: 4 Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients: 4 cups raw spinach 4 cups romaine lettuce 2 cups chopped red, yellow, orange bell pepper 2 cups cherry tomatoes 1 cup chopped broccoli 1 cup chopped cauliflower 1 cup sliced yellow squash 1 cup sliced zucchini 2 cups sliced cucumber 2 cups chopped baby carrots

Directions: Wash all of the vegetables and mix them together in a large mixing bowl. Top this colorful meal with a nonfat or low-fat dressing of your choice

About the Author:

Would you like to find more alkaline diet recipes and learn more about following an alkaline diet?
Get instant access to my free 38-page Alkaline Diet Recipes eBook by going here: Alkaline Diet Recipes Book
The recipes are endorsed by the National Cancer Institute and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - 3 Top Alkaline Diet Recipes

avocado oil benefits for skin

Reading the ingredients on skin care products can be quite confusing.  The labels use terms such as pentapeptides 3, Rentinyl, Palmitate  and Ascorbyl Pamitate and to the average person these terms are bewildering.  However, terms such as the ones listed above are clinical names of very common vitamins.

Just as our body needs the necessary nourishment and proper about of vitamins to stay healthy, the same is true with our skin care program.  In order to have a healthy complexion our face, neck and cleavage area needs nourishment too.

Below are is a short list of typical clinical terms used in skin care products and the common term associated with it. 

Vitamin A - also known as Retinal Palmitate. A vitamin A derivative which is commonly found in skin care products are retinoid.  Products such as Retinol contain Vitamin A, however there is such a small amount of the vitamin A derivative that it may take some time to actually reap the benefits.  Vitamins play an important part in our overall health.  Vitamin A gives the most benefits to the eyes.  If you suffer from blurred vision, dry eyes, or night vision blindness you may have a Vitamin A deficiency.  Additionally, Vitamin A is recommended by dermatologists to maintain youthful and smooth skin and also responds well to Acne breakouts. Vitamin A increases blood flow, stimulates the skin and protects against sunburn.  Beta carotene is found in dark green leafy vegetables, carrots and apricots, has been found to good for skin, as they convert to Vitamin A.

Vitamin A - Facial Mask
1 cup milk
1 tsp. honey
1/2 cup fuller's earth
1 tsp. of apricot essential oil for normal skin.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and apply to face.  Wait 15 minutes and rinse it off with cold water.

Vitamin B's - B3 is known as niacin and B-5 is known as pantothenic acid.  Vitamin B plays in important part in your overall health and in your skin care regimen. B-Complex Vitamins support health of the skin and hair.  The American Academy of Dermatology cites vitamins B-3 and B-5 as popular additions to skin products, mostly because they help hold moisture in. In a study (funded by Procter and Gamble), B vitamins were shown to be effective exfoliates; that is, they removed dead surface skin cells that clump up and make skin texture appear dull.  Another study was done testing B5, B3 and Vitamin E on skin with rosaceous, skin treated with this product experienced a 36% increase in hydration, although it's not clear if this improvement was from vitamin E or the B vitamins.

Avocado Mask Recipe
1 egg yolk
Half avocado
1tbls honey
Peel and mash the avocado with a fork.. In separate bowl, mix the egg yolk and honey together, then and add to the pulp. Use the mixture immediately, applying to your face, neck and shoulders. Leave for at least 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Finish with a toner and moisturizer. Avocado contains:  Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B1 (thiamine) Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Niacin, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, and Vitamin B6.

Vitamin C - also known as L-ascorbic acid and its greatest benefit in skin care is it antioxidants to repair sun damage and defend against free radicals.  Additionally, Vitamin C enhances repairing sun damage and enhances the production of collagen. 

Vitamin C facial serum recipe:
1/4 teaspoon Vitamin C also known as L-ascorbic acid. Do not use vitamin C tablets or calcium Ascorbate.
1 teaspoon glycerin
1 teaspoon water (preferably distilled)

Dissolve the l-ascorbic acid in 1 teaspoon of water in small glass sterilized container. Make sure the acid has dissolved before proceeding. Add 1 teaspoon glycerin and mix well. Apply once a day, preferably at night and increase to twice daily if your skin tolerates the serum. Store in dark container and refrigerate. Light will degrade vitamin C, therefore, it is important to watch for yellowing of your serum, this indicates that the vitamin C is oxidized. Once oxidized the vitamin C has lost it usefulness as a facial serum that delivers nutrients to the skin. As it undergoes oxidation the ascorbic acid takes on a yellowish tinge, so it is important to check your creams or serums before you put them on your face, and if there is any yellow discoloration, discard. Vitamin C in skin care offers many benefits such as reducing blotchiness, stimulates collagen, reduces fine lines and wrinkles and also protect against sun damage.

For informative skin care articles, how to videos, and skin care recipes, visit Complete Skin Care Therapy

About the Author:

Carol Belanger, author of 300+ Skin Care Recipes

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Necessary Vitamins in Skin Care Products

Avocado and avocado oil offers so many benefits when used in your skin products. Did you know that avocado contains vitamins A, B1, B2 and D, lecithin, potassium as well as vitamin E. In addition to the vitamins it contains proteins and more than 20% essential fatty acids (amino acids). It is a sought after skin care ingredient because it has so much to offer.

Avocados are used in anti-aging products because of its nourishing and hydrating abilities. The Department of Food Engineering and Biotechnology, Technion Israel Institute of Technology in 1991 found that avocado oil significantly increases collagen in the skin which is why it is commonly found in antiaging products. Furthermore because of its deep penetration into the skin it is a perfect ingredient to combat dry skin. For those that suffer with eczema or psoriasis avocado offers healing properties that will relive dryness. Both avocado and avocado oil is gentle and well tolerated by those with sensitive skin.

In addition to its moisturizing and healing properties, it is also high in sterolins, AKA plant steroids, which are reported to diminish age spots and heal scars.

Below are a few avocado skin care recipes:

Facial Mask for Dry Skin
1/2 avocado
1 teaspoon almond oil (Note if allergic to nuts use different oil such as jojoba oil or olive oil). Even a vegetable oil in your cupboard will do.)
Mash avocado and then add almond oil or oil of your choice. Apply to face, avoiding the eye area, and let set for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water then cool water. Follow with toner and moisturizer.

Avocado Honey Face Mask - for dry skin
2 tablespoons of avocado
2 tablespoons honey
1 egg yolk
Mash the avocado, add the honey and egg. Mix until thoroughly blended. Apply to face avoiding the eye area. Let set 10 minutes then rise with warm water then cool water. Follow with toner and moisturizer.

Avocado Mask for Oily Skin
1 avocado, mash
1 egg white
1 tsp. lemon juice
Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until you get a mixture. Apply to a clean face with fingertips on the oiliest part of the face (T-zone). Let dry for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water then cool water, follow with toner and moisturizer.

Avocado's can be hard to find and/or a little pricey if living in a northern climate, so here are some recipes that use avocado oil instead.

Dry Skin Cleansing Cream
1/2 oz. Beeswax
1 oz. Lanolin
2 oz. Almond Oil
1 oz. Avocado Oil
1 oz. Grapeseed Oil
2 drops Clary-Sage Essential Oil
2 drops Lemon Essential Oil
3 oz. Spring Water
Using a double boiler, melt beeswax, lanolin, and oils. Stir well. When melted, take off heat and add essential oils, then water. Wisk until cool.

For easy exfoliates, facial masks and facial peels you can easily make at home, visit Complete Skin Care Therapy  

About the Author:

Carol Belanger, author of 300+ Skin Care Recipes

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Avocado-a splendid skin care treatment

avocado spinach salad recipes

Following an alkaline diet and eating alkaline foods is one of the very best things you can do for your health. It can prevent disease and illness and keep you looking young and full of vitality, as well as help you to lose weight

Check out this list of 7 wonderful and easy to find alkaline foods that you should include in your diet almost every day:

1. Spinach - In general, all dark green leafy vegetables are alkaline foods. Spinach fall into this category and is highly alkalizing. The chlorophyll contained in the green pigment is pure sunlight energy and highly alkalizing to our bodies. It is most beneficial eaten raw, in salads or even juiced with some other alkaline foods, such as...

2. Avocado - one of the only alkaline fruits, it makes a great smoothie when blended with spinach, cucumber and pineapple (pineapple is not alkaline but we are looking to achieve a 70:30 balance between alkaline and acidic foods, so this is ok ☺). Avocado is also packed full of essential omega oils, for a healthy heart and great skin, hair and nails, as well as maintaining good joint functionality.

3. Celery - With virtually zero calories in it and full of nutrients, you can't really go wrong with celery. It's great to eat celery sticks raw with houmous dip, or chop it up in your spinach salads, with some seeds and almonds, or make a cabbage and celery soup if you like. Celery loses its bitter taste when cooked but remember that cooking also destroys some of the vitamins and minerals and makes it less alkaline.

4. Tomatoes - our little round red friends are fantastic alkaline foods and, like avocadoes, one of the only alkaline fruits. Tomatoes contain lycopene, which can help to prevent against heart attacks. However, lycopene it is not well absorbed into the body unless the tomatoes are cooked. Thus, the best sources are concentrated tomato products like tomato paste, ketchup and tomato juice. Also, vine-ripened tomatoes contain more lycopene than ones that are picked before they fully ripen.

Tomatoes are so abundant, tasty and versatile, there's no excuse for not eating them every day!

5. Broccoli - broccoli contains loads of cancer preventing/fighting anti-oxidants and it is also a good source of folate, iron, fibre, potassium and vitamin K, and has more calcium than a glass of milk (milk is acidic by the way too).

6. Cucumber - like celery, there are virtually no calories in cucumber, just water, nutrients and chlorophyll. Cut up into crudités and dip in houmous, or chop into salads. The most alkalizing part of a cucumber is its dark green skin, so eat all of it.

7. Lemons - many people are surprised to learn that lemons are an alkaline food. A fantastic and cheap way to make alkaline water is to squeeze the juice of a couple of lemons into a large jug of fresh water, or a lemon and a lime and drink.

About the Author:

Would you like to know more about alkaline diet and alkaline foods? Get instant access to my free 38-page Alkaline Diet Recipes eBook by going here: Alkaline Diet Recipes Book
Laura Wilson has studied and followed an alkaline diet and fitness regime for 10 years, enbaling her to compete in many marathons, triathlons and other athletic events.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Alkaline Foods For Great Health & Vitality

Salad Starter: Lettuce

The darker the leaf, the more vitamins it contains. Look for spinach, romaine, arugula, and chicory to get the most folate and beta-carotene — an antioxidant that helps rid your body of disease-causing chemicals in addition to protecting your eyes and skin. Love your iceberg? "Mix dark greens with lighter ones to tone down their bitter taste," says Jackie Newgent, R.D., a nutritionist and culinary instructor at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City.

Produce Junction: Fruits and Vegetables

The more colorful your mix of vegetables, the more nutrients you'll consume. Fill your plate with these nutritional superstars first — they offer the most vitamins and minerals per bite. Cherry tomatoes are rich in lycopene and may help ward off cardiovascular disease in women. Broccoli boasts vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, and calcium.

When you face a rainbow selection of peppers, green means stop: Red and yellow peppers contain more than twice the amount of vitamin C than the green ones, which are really just unripe versions of the more colorful varieties. You can never go wrong with carrots, one of the best sources of beta-carotene.

All fruit is not created equal. With no water to take up space, dried fruit packs a high caloric punch, especially if you're using a big serving spoon. Avoid large portions of dried cranberries (108 calories for 1/4 cup) and raisins (92 calories for the same size portion).

Stick with fresh fruit like berries, pears, or orange slices. These treats will sweeten your salad without too many calories (oranges have 22 calories for 1/4 cup), and their high water content will help keep you full.

Fat Facts: The Extras Add Up

Limit yourself to one healthy, monounsaturated fat per salad (aside from the dressing), such as nuts, seeds, olives, or avocado. Ten olives or 1/4 cup of nuts (the size of a golf ball) are surprisingly satisfying.

Cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium and is not the best source of calcium for the calories, says Lisa Young, Ph.D., R.D., an adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University and author of The Portion Teller. If you can't lose the cheese, limit it to 1 ounce (about four dice worth) and go for lower-fat versions like goat or mozzarella instead of cheddar or blue. Or mix half low-fat with half regular cheese. "In our study, women didn't taste any difference when we combined low-fat cheese with regular," even though the calorie count was cut almost in half, says Barbara Rolls, Ph.D., professor of nutritional sciences at Pennsylvania State University and author of The Volumetrics Eating Plan.

Dress to Impress: Salad Dressings

Watch the serving size when you hit the dressing: Even honey-mustard dressing weighs in at more than 200 calories per 1/4 cup. One ladle (about 1/4 cup) of full-fat ranch or Caesar packs 300 calories. Two ladles are the equivalent of two hot-fudge sundaes. If you choose low-fat dressing, you can double that. A plastic takeout dressing container holds about 2 tablespoons, so fill accordingly.

Walk right past that fat-free French. A recent study found that people who ate salads with fat-free dressing absorbed fewer essential nutrients than those with fat in their salads, and that reduced-fat dressing boosted absorption of good-for-you nutrients like beta-carotene and lycopene compared with fat-free. A little fat is necessary to help your body process vitamins.

Basic techniques and easy tips to apply makeup on your face: www.100makeup.com

Healthy and easy recipe for your good health in busy days: www.healthy-easy-cooking.com

About the Author:

http://cactuslover.blogspot.com/
http://www.100makeup.com
http://www.healthy-easy-cooking.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Builld Better Salad

are avocados fruits or vegetables

Are avocados fruits or vegetables?

It's a fruit

Benefits of fruits and vegetables

There are many benefits of fruits and vegetables rich diet to our life and health. But, in reality there are only few numbers of people those who choose fruits and vegetable diet.

According to revised NSDA grains, vegetables, fruits, milk and dairy, meat and beans are 5 MAJOR  foods groups, included in the food pyramid. If you want to keep yourself fit and stay healthy forever then it is very important to eat a wide variety of foods from each and every food group listed above. Going for different varieties will not only give you a great deal of variety and keep boredom from setting in, but it will also provide you with the best nutritional balance as well. In addition to macronutrients such as fats, proteins, fiber and water, micronutrients like vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, etc are also vitally important to good health. That is why a healthy, varied diet is so important.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed full of many essential vitamins and minerals, including many micronutrients that you will never be able to find in packaged vitamin supplements. Some foods like pumpkins, carrots, mangoes, peaches butternut squash and green leafy vegetables are rich in beta carotene.  Beta carotene is the best consumable form of Vitamin A and is vital for healthy skin and eyes.

There are many other benefits of fruits and vegetables, besides just their nutritional importance.  Such as:

- Taste, flavors and colors of fruits and vegetables makes it possible that they can be used in virtually every meal.  Those seeking to maximize their diet should get into the healthy habit of using fruits in salads, as toppings and as garnishes.

- Fruits and vegetables help maximize the nutrition. But, try to keep this in mind that proper nutrition comes from a healthy diet, not from vitamin supplements.

Change you life TODAY

CNANGE LIFE NOW

Knowing the five major food groups and how much of each to eat every day is only part of the picture. Choosing good and healthy diet means, choosing things like the leanest cuts of meat, choosing egg substitutes rather than going for whole eggs, picking up freshest fruits and vegetables, etc.

Even with fruits and vegetables, some choices are better than others.  There are some fruits that are packed with fat and calories like avocados. Therefore, it is really necessary to check the nutritional values and qualities of the fruits and vegetables you choose.

Try to go for fiber rich as; adequate fiber intake is also important in preventing heart disease and some kinds of cancer. If you want to lose fat then go for fruits and vegetable those are high in nutrition, low in fat and with low calorie count.  Fruits and vegetables contain very low levels of fats, and a diet low in fat can be quite effective for long term weight loss. Fruits and vegetables contain no cholesterol, and they are lower in calories than many other types of foods.

About the Author:

SUFFERING from skin problem?
Want to get beautiful skin?
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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Benefits of fruits and vegetables

keep avocado green

Is it safe to trim an Avocado, Tree, I live in the south, Texas is my State, and it is still Hot in this area.

I have a lot of Avocado trees in all sizes, I guess i have a green thumb, so I started to plant them, and they keep Growing, but now, I do not know if it is safe to trim their Branches. Any advice out there to someone who knows about this vegetable Plant, Is greatly appreciated.

generally you only trim the lower branches of an avocado tree. They're a very soft wood and as they age the lower limbs tend to droop. When they get close to the ground, so the leaves, wood or fruit will touch, cut the limb off completely. You can seal the cut with tar made for trees.

One good web site, easy to read, is better homes and garden (WWW.BHG.COM). Lots of information on avocado trees including fertilizers.

Green is currently a very popular color. Environmentalists are talking about a greener world; corporate companies are going green to save the earth’s resources. Scientists are talking about fueling the future with green gasoline, derived from plant sources. Health and nutrition experts have been talking green for a long time. A diet that is rich in green vegetables can help protect and support good health!

Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, avocado, green peppers, romaine lettuce, are good for your health. The greener the color, the more health value it has. Green vegetables have:

• the least amount of calories
• the lowest fat value
• the highest protein content per calorie
• high in dietary fiber

Most Americans like to dodge eating green vegetables. Surveys indicate that the average American eats less than 2 cups of green vegetables a week! The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that we eat at least one cup of raw green leafy vegetables a day.

Green Superfoods are great for health for diverse reasons:

Good for your diet. Green beans, cabbage, leafy green vegetables are low in calories. They are packed in nutritive value, and make your stomach feel full without filling your body with calories.

They add protein to your diet. Vegetable protein is said to be far superior to meat protein! Plant protein is much easier to digest and there is no cholesterol! Broccoli has the highest protein content – about 3 grams of protein a just half a cup. Spirulina and chlorella contains 65-70% which is higher than soy, wheat or any meat source.

They add fiber to your diet. The average American diet is lacking in fiber. Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, swiss chard, mustard greens, green peas, kale and other dark green leafy vegetables add fiber to your diet. Fiber binds toxins to themselves, helping your body clear them through your digestive system without allowing them to enter your body. Fiber adds bulk for peristalsis and helps to prevent constipation. Fiber also helps to keep a healthy intestinal microflora—an environment where good bacteria proliferates and bad bacteria (pathogens) find it difficult to survive. Fiber is also useful in weight management.

They add essential phytochemicals to your diet. Phytochemicals are powerful antioxidants found in plant substances. Vegetables like spinach, zucchini, brussels sprouts, garden peas, Swiss chard, kale, collard greens, mustard greens and turnip greens contain high amounts of the phytochemicals beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Research shows that these powerful antioxidants can help your body protect itself from night blindness, macular degeneration.1

Antioxidants also play a role in neutralizing free radical activity. Free radical activity destabilizes the molecular activity in the body, leading to cell degeneration or cell mutation. This breakdown of cell structure at the basic level of health can eventually lead to tissue and organ damage, even cancer and other diseases. Antioxidants can nutritionally help to slow this process.

They contain high amounts of essential minerals. Green vegetables contain calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium.

Calcium is needed for bone building and also helps your muscles and nerves to function well. It helps in the clotting of blood. Vegetables rich in calcium are the outer leaves of cabbage, broccoli leaves, turnip greens, mustard greens, collards, and kale.

Iron is important for cellular reproduction. Every second about 50 million old cells in the body are replaced by new ones! And iron is needed in the reproduction of every new cell! Iron is also needed by the body for metabolism. Avocado, asparagus, and broccoli are rich in iron content.

Potassium and magnesium are connected to the regulating of normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Green Vegetables contains essential vitamins you normally do not find in other vegetables. Folate (Vitamin B9) and Vitamin K are found in good amounts in green vegetables. Folate is necessary for DNA duplication and repair and also promotes heart health. Vitamin K is necessary for the clotting of blood.

Buffers the stomach. Green vegetables buffer the stomach. A normal American diet contains too much sugar, starch and fats which causes too much acidity. Proper digestion of nutrients cannot take place in a digestive environment which is too acidic. Green vegetables can help bring the pH level to normal.

Green Vegetables Provide Enzymes: Raw green vegetables contain enzymes that help to digest food. They support a healthy digestive system.

There are plenty of good reasons to eat green vegetables! Add them to your diet every day. If you’re one of those who run away from vegetables, try a green food supplement like Royal Greens Ultra. Your body needs to have the health benefits that come from green foods. Supplements consist of natural foods which include chlorella and spirulina, probiotics and other fruits and vegetables to support and protect immune health, heart health and digestive health.

References:

1. Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group, SanGiovanni JP, Chew EY, et al. The relationship of dietary carotenoid and vitamin A, E, and C intake with age-related macular degeneration in a case-control study: AREDS Report No. 22. (2007) Arch Ophthalmol 125:1225-1232. PMID 17846363

About the Author:

New Vitality is a health supplements company. It develops supplement products which are carefully formulated under the guidance of an elite panel comprised of renowned doctors, nutritionists, chemists and researchers. Whether you want a nutritional supplement, pet health supplement, a personal care product or a health care product, New Vitality is a one-stop shop for all needs.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Go Green on Superfoods!

where avocados grow

How do you grow fat from a tree?

I understand how a steel ship floats, I understand the effects of gravity on celetial bodies etc. I'm not a complete idiot. What I don't get is why everyone says avocadoes are so fattening. Meat has fat content, I get that. Animals with unburned calories get fat and fat is in the meat and you eat it and it's fattening. Okay- I get that. An avocado grows on a tree. Since trees don't eat until they get fat how is it that you can grow fat from a tree?

the fat comes from the oils in the avocado which is produced by the tree in much the same way sap and syrup is made by trees. keep in mind the fat is the healthy type, unlike most other foods.

Yes I know you have heard of people telling you over and over again that hair grows at a rate of  1/2 to 3/4 of an inch a year. But like any statistic it is false, there is no genetic predetermined number for hair growth

You can make hair grow faster and I will show you how here

First step to make hair grow faster is to

Change your diet, your speed of hair growth is in direct proportion to the health of your hair

So if you are sick and of ill health your hair growth rate will suffer

So do the following

Eats lots of low fat, high protein, you can get this from chicken, egg whites, low fat milk and fish. Protein: Meat, fish, poultry, milk, eggs, cheese, yogurt & sunflower seeds.

To make your hair grow faster be sure to stop consuming fast foods and processed foods

You also want to avoid fried and fatty foods and stop consuming lots of sweets.

Nest to make hair grow faster be sure to commune lots of water, flush away all the toxins in your system by drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day

You need the following vitamins and you can get them from the foods that follow

First hair vitamin that will make hair grow faster is Vitamin A; you can get Vitamin A from sources such as: carrots, tomatoes, oily fish, dark green leafy vegetables & apricots.

Second hair vitamin that makes hair grow faster is Vitamin B and you can get Vitamin B from foods sources such as: Milk, eggs, wholegrain cereals, bread, wheat germs, nuts, soy beans, poultry, fish & meat.

The next hair vitamin to make hair grow faster is Vitamin D; Vitamin D can be found in food sources such as: fish liver oils, oily fish, milk & eggs. You can get vitamin D from sunlight but be sure to keep it to 5 minutes or less

.
Next hair vitamin to make hair grow faster is Vitamin C: this vitamin can be found in such foods as: Blackcurrant, green peppers, citrus fruits, bananas, avocados, artichokes & leafy green vegetables.

Another powerful vitamin to make hair grow faster is Vitamin E: and you can find this hair vitamin in such sources as Wheat germ, peanuts, vegetable oils, pulses & green leafy vegetables.

Now there are hair growth minerals like Iron and Calcium that will help you to make hair grow faster, you can find Iron in such foods as  Spinach, cockles, liver, kidneys, pulses, lentils, beans, peas & dried fruit.

The other hair mineral known to help to make hair grow faster is Calcium you can find calcium in foods such as: Cheese, nuts, eggs, milk, yogurt, sardines and in root vegetables.

Another good hair vitamin/ mineral known to make hair grow faster is Iodine and Sulfur

Iodine can be found in foods like: Seafood, dried kelp & iodized salt.

And Sulfur can be found in food like: Eggs, meat, cheese & other diary products.

The other aspect of stopping hair loss is the mental aspect, stress will cause hair loss and stunt hair growth so be sure to meditate and do yoga to relax the mind

After all this , there is one external application that you must use to make hair grow faster and this is Mira hair oil and it is known to  do the following to make hair grow faster
First it removes and unclogs hair pores for hair to grow fast

Second it has herbs proven to stimulate hair growth

Third it has herbs that suppress DHT the hormones responsible for hair loss

And finally it stimulates blood flow to the scalp allowing faster hair growth

Combine the Mira hair oil with the above suggestions and your hair will grow fast

About the Author:

Rob Maraby is the author of over 25 self published books on health, beauty and marketing! Try Mira hair oil for Free Secret Steps To Make Hair Grow Faster-click here and you will not be disappointed

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Secret Steps To Make Hair Grow Faster

spinach strawberry avocado salad

Dietary experts recommend that every person should eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. The importance of fruits and vegetables to a healthy diet has been known for quite some time, but studies have shown that very few people eat the amount of fruits and vegetables recommended for a healthy diet.

That's a shame, since eating a sufficient number of fruits and vegetables just may be the single most effective thing you can do to improve your overall health. The five a day approach to healthy eating may be the single most important strategy you can adopt for a healthier lifestyle.

The many health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables have been established for quite some time now. Study after study has shown that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables lowers the risk of certain cancers, heart disease and other chronic diseases and conditions. Some studies have suggested that as many as 35% of cancer deaths can be attributed to diet, and that diets high in fats and low in fruits and vegetables contributes to unnecessary cancer deaths.

Fruits and vegetables have a lot of advantages besides just their nutritional importance. For one thing, they taste great and add a great deal of variety to everyday meals. Fruits and vegetables come in such a wide variety of colours, textures and flavours that they can be used in virtually every meal. Those seeking to maximize their consumption of fruits and vegetables should get into the habit of using fruits in salads, as toppings and as garnishes.

In addition to their great taste, fruits and vegetables are packed full of many essential vitamins and minerals, including many micronutrients that are not included in packaged vitamin supplements. For instance, foods like butternut squash, pumpkins, carrots, mangoes, peaches, pawpaws and green leafy vegetables are rich in beta carotene. Beta carotene is vital for healthy skin and eyes.

In addition, most varieties of fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C, another important vitamin and a strong antioxidant. Good sources of vitamin C include Brussels sprouts, citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, nectarines and kiwi fruit. Many fruits and vegetables, including spinach, broccoli and avocadoes, are also good sources of vitamin E, another excellent antioxidant.

Men and women alike should always strive to eat a healthy diet, but women have an extra incentive to get all the nutrition they need. Proper nutrition is essential to a healthy pregnancy, and some of the baby's biggest nutritional needs happen before the pregnancy is discovered. Folic acid is perhaps the best known essential nutrient for pregnant women. Folic acid has been proven effective at preventing a variety of birth defects, including Spina Bifida. Good dietary sources of folic acid include Brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach and oranges. In addition, due to its importance to women of child bearing years, many common foods such as cereals and breads, are supplemented with folic acid.

In addition to their importance as source of vitamins and minerals, fruits and vegetables also provide essential dietary fibre. Adequate fibre in the diet is important in preventing heart disease and some kinds of cancer.

Another great feature of fruits and vegetables, especially to those watching their weight, is the high nutrition, low fat, low calorie nature of these foods. Fruits and vegetables contain very low levels of fats, and a diet low in fat can be quite effective for long term weight loss. In addition, fruits and vegetables contain no cholesterol, and they are lower in calories than many other types of foods.

With all these things going for them, it is no wonder so many dietary experts recommend eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Not only are fruits and vegetables delicious and nutritious, but they can be quite inexpensive as well. Buying fruits and vegetables that are locally grown, and that are in season, is usually the most cost effective way to get the freshest fruits and veggies at the lowest possible cost.

This buying strategy also helps to ensure a steady stream of new fruits and vegetables every month, as some go out of season while others are just coming in. Trying a variety of different fruits and vegetables, including some you may not be familiar with, is also a great way to create exciting new dishes and prevent you from becoming bored with the same old diet. Whether your goal is to lose weight or just increase your level of fitness, it is hard to go wrong with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

About the Author:

Uchenna Ani-Okoye is an internet marketing advisor and co founder of Free Affiliate Programs

For more information and resource links on healthy eating visit: Atkins Diet Induction

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Healthy Eating With Fruits and Vegetables

If you want to improve your health and vitality levels then one of the best things you can do is adopt an alkaline diet. I've got 3 great alkaline diet recipes for you

You should aim for a 70:30 ratio of alkaline to acidic foods.

In my and many other people's experience, if you try and eat 100% alkaline foods, it is really too difficult to sustain and doesn't allow for some foods that should be enjoyed sparingly, like fruit.

It is better to go for 70:30 than 'fall off the wagon' completely, trying to achieve a 100% alkaline diet.

Here are 3 easy, quick and tasty alkaline diet recipes: The first is a lovely tasty curry. Herbs and spices are very alkalizing so use these freely in all your food preparation and cooking. The second recipe is a slightly sweet avocado salad. Avocadoes are absolutely wonderful foods - full of Omega 3 essential oils and one for the only alkaline fruits, a real super food. The third recipe is a good old classic salad. You really can't go wrong with eating a big salad every day - dark green leafy vegetables are amazingly alkalizing so knock yourself out Enjoy!

1 - Chickpea and Spinach Curry Number of Servings: 6 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely chopped onion 1-1/2 Tbsp fresh ginger, chopped or grated 1 tsp olive oil or virgin coconut oil 1-1/2 tsp red curry powder 1 19 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes with liquid 1 10 oz bag spinach 1/2 cup water 1/4 tsp salt (optional)

Directions: Put the ginger and onion in a food blender/mixer until it is minced. Heat oil gently in large skillet over medium high heat. Add onion mixture and curry. Sauté 3 minutes. Add chickpeas and tomatoes; simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in spinach, water and salt. Cook another minute or until spinach wilts.

2 - Avocado Fruit Salad Number of serving: 8 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 ripe avocado, seeded and peeled (1/2 sliced into 8 portions, 1/2" cubed) 1-1/2 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp raspberry vinegar 1 tsp grated lime peel 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp fresh chopped basil leaves 1/2 tsp dry mustard 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1 10 oz package mixed baby greens 4 kiwi, peeled and sliced in half rounds 4 grapefruit 2 cups sliced strawberries 2 star fruits, sliced

Directions: Salad Dressing - In a small bowl, whisk together remaining ingredients, set aside. Salad - In a large salad bowl, combine baby greens, kiwi, grapefruit, strawberries and star fruit. Pour on dressing and toss to coat. Top with avocado slices.

3 - Very Veggie Salad Number of Servings: 4 Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients: 4 cups raw spinach 4 cups romaine lettuce 2 cups chopped red, yellow, orange bell pepper 2 cups cherry tomatoes 1 cup chopped broccoli 1 cup chopped cauliflower 1 cup sliced yellow squash 1 cup sliced zucchini 2 cups sliced cucumber 2 cups chopped baby carrots

Directions: Wash all of the vegetables and mix them together in a large mixing bowl. Top this colorful meal with a nonfat or low-fat dressing of your choice

About the Author:

Would you like to find more alkaline diet recipes and learn more about following an alkaline diet?
Get instant access to my free 38-page Alkaline Diet Recipes eBook by going here: Alkaline Diet Recipes Book
The recipes are endorsed by the National Cancer Institute and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - 3 Top Alkaline Diet Recipes

spinach grapefruit avocado salad

If you want to improve your health and vitality levels then one of the best things you can do is adopt an alkaline diet. I've got 3 great alkaline diet recipes for you

You should aim for a 70:30 ratio of alkaline to acidic foods.

In my and many other people's experience, if you try and eat 100% alkaline foods, it is really too difficult to sustain and doesn't allow for some foods that should be enjoyed sparingly, like fruit.

It is better to go for 70:30 than 'fall off the wagon' completely, trying to achieve a 100% alkaline diet.

Here are 3 easy, quick and tasty alkaline diet recipes: The first is a lovely tasty curry. Herbs and spices are very alkalizing so use these freely in all your food preparation and cooking. The second recipe is a slightly sweet avocado salad. Avocadoes are absolutely wonderful foods - full of Omega 3 essential oils and one for the only alkaline fruits, a real super food. The third recipe is a good old classic salad. You really can't go wrong with eating a big salad every day - dark green leafy vegetables are amazingly alkalizing so knock yourself out Enjoy!

1 - Chickpea and Spinach Curry Number of Servings: 6 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely chopped onion 1-1/2 Tbsp fresh ginger, chopped or grated 1 tsp olive oil or virgin coconut oil 1-1/2 tsp red curry powder 1 19 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes with liquid 1 10 oz bag spinach 1/2 cup water 1/4 tsp salt (optional)

Directions: Put the ginger and onion in a food blender/mixer until it is minced. Heat oil gently in large skillet over medium high heat. Add onion mixture and curry. Sauté 3 minutes. Add chickpeas and tomatoes; simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in spinach, water and salt. Cook another minute or until spinach wilts.

2 - Avocado Fruit Salad Number of serving: 8 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 ripe avocado, seeded and peeled (1/2 sliced into 8 portions, 1/2" cubed) 1-1/2 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp raspberry vinegar 1 tsp grated lime peel 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp fresh chopped basil leaves 1/2 tsp dry mustard 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1 10 oz package mixed baby greens 4 kiwi, peeled and sliced in half rounds 4 grapefruit 2 cups sliced strawberries 2 star fruits, sliced

Directions: Salad Dressing - In a small bowl, whisk together remaining ingredients, set aside. Salad - In a large salad bowl, combine baby greens, kiwi, grapefruit, strawberries and star fruit. Pour on dressing and toss to coat. Top with avocado slices.

3 - Very Veggie Salad Number of Servings: 4 Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients: 4 cups raw spinach 4 cups romaine lettuce 2 cups chopped red, yellow, orange bell pepper 2 cups cherry tomatoes 1 cup chopped broccoli 1 cup chopped cauliflower 1 cup sliced yellow squash 1 cup sliced zucchini 2 cups sliced cucumber 2 cups chopped baby carrots

Directions: Wash all of the vegetables and mix them together in a large mixing bowl. Top this colorful meal with a nonfat or low-fat dressing of your choice

About the Author:

Would you like to find more alkaline diet recipes and learn more about following an alkaline diet?
Get instant access to my free 38-page Alkaline Diet Recipes eBook by going here: Alkaline Diet Recipes Book
The recipes are endorsed by the National Cancer Institute and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - 3 Top Alkaline Diet Recipes

The details of Diets

Anyone in diet grapefruit plan will not hesitate to call it a great diet plan fruit qualities - The freedom to eat as you like while in silence helps burn fat. So here are the instructions of the grapefruit diet.

Drink 8 glasses of water a day. A glass should contain 8 oz and by 8 glasses a dietician means that you need to drink 64 oz or 2 liters.

Eat till you are full without leaving or eliminating anything

Do not change the amount of grapefruit juice and its inclusion for all, as is the case that the burning of fat inflammation.

Do not change the quantity of grapefruit or its juice intake for anything as it is the thing that kindles the burning of fat.

Foods that are fried in butter are ok and you can use butter too. There are no restrictions on the meat.

Repeat the course in stretches of 12 days with a 2 days break thrown in.

Remember to show the grapefruit diet plan for at least 2 months to comply with reliable results.

Briefly Explain Sample Grapefruit Diet Plan

The heart healthy diet is distributed throughout the day. And every time you have to take grapefruit or its juice, the better the result of advance in all cases.

Grapefruit Diet Plan

Breakfast: Eat half a grapefruit or drink a glass of juice to break their fast. You can have two eggs and two slices of bacon, too.

Lunch: The same routine for the grapefruit goes with lunch. To the side and main dishes, you can have salad dressings, and certainly not as much meat as you want and in any style.

Dinner: Continue the half grapefruit or a glass for dinner routine. Here you can enjoy the luxury, spicy, vegetables, butter and red or green salad. Take advantage of meat or fish cooked in all kinds of needs. You can have a coffee or tea. Snack before bed: A simple glass of skim milk or tomato juice.

Remember if you choose to take grapefruit juice instead of the fruit itself, keep juice unsweetened as per the dictates of directions to diet. With the salad, you can enjoy the variety, for example, you can have spinach, celery, prawn, chicken, avocado and red onion alternately with your favorite salad. In addition, there are dos and don'ts to follow for the heart healthy grapefruit diet to give any result to you. You can consult your dietician for a detailed list. Here is a brief list

Dos of a good grapefruit diet plan: You can eat red onions, bell peppers, Radishes, Broccoli, Cereal Low-fat / fat free or diet salad dressings etc.

Don'ts of grapefruit diet plan: Mayonnaise, chilly, potato chips, white onions, cucumbers, any cheese, hot dogs, dill or bread / butter pickles etc.

About the Author:

Loss Weight Diet Guide - Providing diet resources such as articles, forums, and link directory - Diet That Really Work. We're also welcome all authors to come and submit their diet related articles.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Grapefruit - Number one natural and healthy diet

avocado lettuce salad

A lot of people are becoming health conscious already. They prefer to prepare their own food to make sure they are eating just healthy foods. They would not know what ingredients are used in commercial foods.

Then again, many of us are busy with our works and personal lives. It is often easier to resort to buying food outside rather than go to the ordeal of preparing our own food in the kitchen. Good thing though that there are now many quick recipes that will only take around 10 minutes to do. These are easy to make and promises to be very healthy.

You could also adapt a few tips on how to make preparations much easier and quicker. The first tip is to use all the possible convenient products available to you. It could be frozen mixed veggies, pasta sauces and many more. It requires little cooking. You could toss them up together in a matter of few minutes with hardly any cooking needed.

Ready the ingredients beforehand if you are thinking of a recipe already. Also prepare the utensils and other items you will need. You could easily cook after coming home if you have all these prepared already.

Think of recipes that only have a few ingredients. These are easier to prepare. You could also use leftovers instead of buying in the grocery. You save time and money. Recipes are not necessarily strictly followed. You could always deviate and make use of what you have in your refrigerator. Just experiment and see what will taste good for you. Be sure to write down what you have used so you could prepare it again next time.

Salads are generally easy to make, plus it is very healthy. Most are made from vegetables and fruits. It could be topped with a dressing or just seasoned to taste. It may also be an appetizer for your main meal.

Green or garden salads are mostly made out of green leafy vegetables like lettuce, cucumbers and cabbages. It may also be topped with mushrooms, carrots, peppers, onions, celery, avocado, and radishes. You could make your own vinaigrette dressing or just buy ready-made in bottles.

Another kind of salad is the entrée. It has toppings like chicken or sea foods. The most common type of green salad known worldwide is the one we called the caesar salad. This is very healthy and offers a complete meal at the same time. You have meat and vegetables already in one dish.

Dressings added to salads vary in different cultures. Vinaigrettes are common in Southern Europe but Asians adopted it too. Mayonnaise is often used in Eastern Europe. Crème Fraiche is the well known Denmark's salad dressings.

Other salad dressings are light edible oils. It may be soybean oil, olive oil and corn oil. Vinegar and cheeses can also be added to complement the taste. There are lots of ingredients that can be made salad dressings. These salad dressings are added to salad to add some flavors to the vegetables or fruits. These are needed because some of the vegetable are taste less. We need something to make it a little sweet or sour to make the salty taste of the fruit or vegetable less.

Salad garnishes also add flavor. It could be bacon bits ( an imitation), beetroot bell peppers, mushrooms, anchovies, sunflower seeds, shredded carrots and many more.

About the Author:

For more information on Salad Shooters & Choppers and Egg Salad Products.Please visit our website.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Vegetable Salad for Dinner

Enjoy a great salad with your own homemade dressing of honey and lime.  Refreshing and different; try it today!  This light and festive salad has a Mexican flair with the black beans, corn, and avocado.  It can be made into an entree salad by adding cubed cooked chicken.  You could also make it a fried chicken salad by slicing fried chicken breast over the top.  The dressing would be good on other salads as well.  It has a Tex-Mex appeal with the lime and cilantro.  It would be a good dressing to keep sealed in a jar in your refrigerator for use on other salads or for marinating meats.

FIESTA SALAD WITH HOMEMADE HONEY AND LIME DRESSING

1 pkg (10-oz) romaine lettuce blend (or your favorite salad blend of greens)
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 pint tiny tomatoes, halved
1 pkg (10-oz)frozen whole kernel corn, microwaved and cooled
3/4 cup thinly sliced radishes
1/2 small red onion, peeled and sliced
1 ripe avocado, peeled, cored, chopped
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Freshly ground black pepper

Put frozen corn in a microwave-safe bowl, cover and cook about 10 minutes stirring halfway through cooking. Toss corn with remaining ingredients in a large bowl just before serving. Pour Honey-Lime Dressing over the salad and serve.

HOMEMADE HONEY AND LIME DRESSING

1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup Canola oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro
2 tsp minced garlic

Using a wire whisk, mix all ingredients together in a small chilled bowl until well combined. Pour over salad at serving time.

This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.

Enjoy!

About the Author:

For more quick and easy recipes visit my blog at http://grandmasquickfixrecipes.blogspot.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How to Make a Great Salad with Homemade Dressing of Honey and Lime

avocado grapefruit salad recipes

If you want to improve your health and vitality levels then one of the best things you can do is adopt an alkaline diet. I've got 3 great alkaline diet recipes for you

You should aim for a 70:30 ratio of alkaline to acidic foods.

In my and many other people's experience, if you try and eat 100% alkaline foods, it is really too difficult to sustain and doesn't allow for some foods that should be enjoyed sparingly, like fruit.

It is better to go for 70:30 than 'fall off the wagon' completely, trying to achieve a 100% alkaline diet.

Here are 3 easy, quick and tasty alkaline diet recipes: The first is a lovely tasty curry. Herbs and spices are very alkalizing so use these freely in all your food preparation and cooking. The second recipe is a slightly sweet avocado salad. Avocadoes are absolutely wonderful foods - full of Omega 3 essential oils and one for the only alkaline fruits, a real super food. The third recipe is a good old classic salad. You really can't go wrong with eating a big salad every day - dark green leafy vegetables are amazingly alkalizing so knock yourself out Enjoy!

1 - Chickpea and Spinach Curry Number of Servings: 6 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely chopped onion 1-1/2 Tbsp fresh ginger, chopped or grated 1 tsp olive oil or virgin coconut oil 1-1/2 tsp red curry powder 1 19 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes with liquid 1 10 oz bag spinach 1/2 cup water 1/4 tsp salt (optional)

Directions: Put the ginger and onion in a food blender/mixer until it is minced. Heat oil gently in large skillet over medium high heat. Add onion mixture and curry. Sauté 3 minutes. Add chickpeas and tomatoes; simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in spinach, water and salt. Cook another minute or until spinach wilts.

2 - Avocado Fruit Salad Number of serving: 8 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 ripe avocado, seeded and peeled (1/2 sliced into 8 portions, 1/2" cubed) 1-1/2 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp raspberry vinegar 1 tsp grated lime peel 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp fresh chopped basil leaves 1/2 tsp dry mustard 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1 10 oz package mixed baby greens 4 kiwi, peeled and sliced in half rounds 4 grapefruit 2 cups sliced strawberries 2 star fruits, sliced

Directions: Salad Dressing - In a small bowl, whisk together remaining ingredients, set aside. Salad - In a large salad bowl, combine baby greens, kiwi, grapefruit, strawberries and star fruit. Pour on dressing and toss to coat. Top with avocado slices.

3 - Very Veggie Salad Number of Servings: 4 Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients: 4 cups raw spinach 4 cups romaine lettuce 2 cups chopped red, yellow, orange bell pepper 2 cups cherry tomatoes 1 cup chopped broccoli 1 cup chopped cauliflower 1 cup sliced yellow squash 1 cup sliced zucchini 2 cups sliced cucumber 2 cups chopped baby carrots

Directions: Wash all of the vegetables and mix them together in a large mixing bowl. Top this colorful meal with a nonfat or low-fat dressing of your choice

About the Author:

Would you like to find more alkaline diet recipes and learn more about following an alkaline diet?
Get instant access to my free 38-page Alkaline Diet Recipes eBook by going here: Alkaline Diet Recipes Book
The recipes are endorsed by the National Cancer Institute and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - 3 Top Alkaline Diet Recipes

Well for all you basic seaweed enthusiasts most will know right off the bat when someone mentions the word kelp or irish moss. These seem to be the two most common forms of edible seaweed available today. But for those wishing to expand their seaweed horizon to a new level then there are some new forms of seaweed now fresh in stock on our shelves at Florida Herb House or http://www.sharpweblabs.com.

We are excited to welcome four new premium wildharvested seaweeds, (HiJiki, Arame, Applewood Dulse, and California Sea Palm), to our herb stores. While not a common to their kelp brothers and sisters these seaweeds deliver as promised. Whether you are cooking a fine cuisine dish or simply want to reap the most vitamins and minerals per ounce then have a look at these.

Hijiki is a seaweed, similar to arame seaweed. Hijiki is a black, slightly bitter tasting seaweed and is sold dried in short course strips. Hijiki is best used in dishes that require slow cooking. The Okinawa people simmer hijiki with soybeans and vegetables. They soak the soybeans and hijiki overnight. Hijiki like other seaweeds is a rich source of iron, protein, calcium, zinc and iodine. Hijiki is also a good source of Lignans which are beneficial with respect to cancer.

Arame is a good introduction to seaweed because of its mild taste. It blends well with other flavors and is a rich source of iron. Arame can be steamed, sauteed, added to soup, or eaten in salads. Arame and all other seaweed, is a rich source of calcium, zinc and iodine. It is also a good source of Lignans which help fight cancer.
Because it comes from the sea, seaweed contains sodium. It should be avoided by anyone on a sodium-restricted diet. Wakame has the highest sodium content, with kelp having significantly less.

Our Applewood dulse is smoked in a applewood scent and is truly remarkable. This dulse from the northern Atlantic is high in protein, iron, B-12, chlorophyll, enzymes, and fiber. Great raw, right out of the bag. Snip pieces and add to salads, eggs, or grains. Make an Almond-Waldorf Salad (recipe on package). Fry it for a vegetarian DLT sandwich!

Our California Sea Palm is in stock and ready for you to try. Similar to Kelp but different in taste this is a must try. A northern California treasure, noodle-like sea palm becomes a favorite of anyone who tries it. Enjoy its mild flavor. For a gourmet treat, cover ¼ oz sea palm with water, simmer for 5 minutes. Allow to cool. Peel sections of 1 grapefruit and toss with slices of 2 avocados. Add sea palm whole or in pieces. Sprinkle liberally with sea salt or table salt. Exotic!

Sincerely,

Stephen C. Sharp

Florida Herb House

About the Author:

Born and raised in the outskirts of Boston, Ma. With a deep backround in herbal nutriton I offer advice and tips on many natural remedies using only natural herbs and spices. See our discounted organic herbs and spices at www.SharpWeblabs.com and www.FloridaHerbHouse.com or visit our retail store in Port Orange, Florida!

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Try Some Seaweed Salad For A Change!

avocado soup buttermilk

Now becoming the vegetarian is lifestyle. No wonder that more and more people are becoming vegetarian. They choose vegetarian recipes for many reasons: social or religious beliefs, availability, health concerns and taste. However, some people consider that choosing recipes for vegetarian isn't easy and delicious.

Based on the fact, you can find good recipes for vegetarian in many locations. Just search online, in cookbooks, or at local health food stores for ideas. However, to get the right amount of nutrition for every vegetarian recipe, you should carefully plan your meal.

Here are some of the guidelines that the ADA (American Dietetic Association) has released:

1. Choose a variety of foods.
2. Avoid processed foods.
3. Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits.
4. Buy only low-fat or no fat variants of eggs and dairy products.
5. Make sure to include Vitamin B-12 and vitamin D in your meal

Related to the guidelines, recipes for vegetarian are defined as using no meat or meat products, while a vegan recipe would use no animal products at all including cheese, milk or eggs. The key to choose a vegetarian dish is to choose depending on level of your vegetarianism.

The vegetarian diet commonly includes green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, seeds, whole grains and root crops. Salads and vegetable dishes are staples in any vegetarian diet. However, there are numerous healthy recipes for vegetarian, such as bean-vegetable chili served with tortillas, rice and beans, macaroni and cheese, baked beans and corn bread, cheese rolled in chopped nuts, hummus, bread sticks with sesame seeds, and split pea soup.

Quality is crucial for vegetarian recipes. So, do not be afraid to experiment by using your favorite fruits and vegetables as substitutes in different dishes.

Choosing a Vegetarian diet to maintain a Healthy and Weight Loss program.

Permanent weight loss is easier with healthy vegetarian meals. Why? A plant based diet plan is low calorie and fills you up with high fiber foods. And fresh fruits, legumes, vegetables and whole grains contain more anti-oxidants than meat, eggs, and dairy.

Eating the most nutritious foods means speedy weight loss without hunger. Not ready to go full time vegetarian? Studies show that eating a few meatless meals every week can lower the risk of heart disease and may even prolong life.

So how could you adapt your favorite recipes to omit the meat? Here are 5 ways to cut the meat and increase the health benefits of your meals:

1. Stir-fry's are healthy, quick, and satisfying. Substitute firm tofu, tempeh, nuts, and sesame seeds in place of chicken, beef, and seafood. Use a variety of colorful vegetables like pea pods, red bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and carrots for a super-charged meal. Serve with brown rice instead of white rice for a hearty, nutty taste and more fiber.

2. Substitute cooked legumes like beans and lentils for the meat in casseroles, stews, soups, and chili. Try red kidney beans in chili or stew, lentils in spaghetti sauce or stuffed cabbage rolls, and refried beans in burritos, tacos, and enchiladas. Black beans and rice make a filling main dish. Spice them up with some fresh salsa, and add avocado for healthy fats.

3. Skip the meat and add more chopped vegetables in pasta sauces, pizza toppings, soups, stews, and other mixed dishes. Vegetables like portabella mushrooms and eggplant are thick and satisfying. Use soy-based cheese instead of dairy-based cheese for added anti-oxidants.

4. Substituting for eggs and dairy in recipes can be tricky, so experiment to find the right consistency and binding agents for each dish. For example, try tofu, soymilk, soy cheese, and soy yogurt in recipes that call for dairy products. Replace ricotta cheese in lasagna with crumbled tofu. Buttermilk is a snap to make by mixing 1 cup of soy milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Use soymilk when making puddings and mashed potatoes.

5. Fruit smoothies make outstanding breakfasts or lunches, especially on hot days. Skip the dairy base and enjoy a thick, creamy fruit smoothie made with soft tofu, soymilk, or fruit juice.

Seek out vegetarian recipes on the internet. There are countless sites with creative recipes to wean you off meat. You'll be healthier and slimmer if you can eat a few meals a week without meat, dairy, and eggs.

About the Author:

Seomul Evans is a copywriter with an interest in:
SEO Services
,
Healthy Foods
, and
Healthy Easy Recipes
.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Thinking About Vegetarian Recipes?

avocado hair mask recipes

Reading the ingredients on skin care products can be quite confusing.  The labels use terms such as pentapeptides 3, Rentinyl, Palmitate  and Ascorbyl Pamitate and to the average person these terms are bewildering.  However, terms such as the ones listed above are clinical names of very common vitamins.

Just as our body needs the necessary nourishment and proper about of vitamins to stay healthy, the same is true with our skin care program.  In order to have a healthy complexion our face, neck and cleavage area needs nourishment too.

Below are is a short list of typical clinical terms used in skin care products and the common term associated with it. 

Vitamin A - also known as Retinal Palmitate. A vitamin A derivative which is commonly found in skin care products are retinoid.  Products such as Retinol contain Vitamin A, however there is such a small amount of the vitamin A derivative that it may take some time to actually reap the benefits.  Vitamins play an important part in our overall health.  Vitamin A gives the most benefits to the eyes.  If you suffer from blurred vision, dry eyes, or night vision blindness you may have a Vitamin A deficiency.  Additionally, Vitamin A is recommended by dermatologists to maintain youthful and smooth skin and also responds well to Acne breakouts. Vitamin A increases blood flow, stimulates the skin and protects against sunburn.  Beta carotene is found in dark green leafy vegetables, carrots and apricots, has been found to good for skin, as they convert to Vitamin A.

Vitamin A - Facial Mask
1 cup milk
1 tsp. honey
1/2 cup fuller's earth
1 tsp. of apricot essential oil for normal skin.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and apply to face.  Wait 15 minutes and rinse it off with cold water.

Vitamin B's - B3 is known as niacin and B-5 is known as pantothenic acid.  Vitamin B plays in important part in your overall health and in your skin care regimen. B-Complex Vitamins support health of the skin and hair.  The American Academy of Dermatology cites vitamins B-3 and B-5 as popular additions to skin products, mostly because they help hold moisture in. In a study (funded by Procter and Gamble), B vitamins were shown to be effective exfoliates; that is, they removed dead surface skin cells that clump up and make skin texture appear dull.  Another study was done testing B5, B3 and Vitamin E on skin with rosaceous, skin treated with this product experienced a 36% increase in hydration, although it's not clear if this improvement was from vitamin E or the B vitamins.

Avocado Mask Recipe
1 egg yolk
Half avocado
1tbls honey
Peel and mash the avocado with a fork.. In separate bowl, mix the egg yolk and honey together, then and add to the pulp. Use the mixture immediately, applying to your face, neck and shoulders. Leave for at least 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Finish with a toner and moisturizer. Avocado contains:  Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B1 (thiamine) Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Niacin, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, and Vitamin B6.

Vitamin C - also known as L-ascorbic acid and its greatest benefit in skin care is it antioxidants to repair sun damage and defend against free radicals.  Additionally, Vitamin C enhances repairing sun damage and enhances the production of collagen. 

Vitamin C facial serum recipe:
1/4 teaspoon Vitamin C also known as L-ascorbic acid. Do not use vitamin C tablets or calcium Ascorbate.
1 teaspoon glycerin
1 teaspoon water (preferably distilled)

Dissolve the l-ascorbic acid in 1 teaspoon of water in small glass sterilized container. Make sure the acid has dissolved before proceeding. Add 1 teaspoon glycerin and mix well. Apply once a day, preferably at night and increase to twice daily if your skin tolerates the serum. Store in dark container and refrigerate. Light will degrade vitamin C, therefore, it is important to watch for yellowing of your serum, this indicates that the vitamin C is oxidized. Once oxidized the vitamin C has lost it usefulness as a facial serum that delivers nutrients to the skin. As it undergoes oxidation the ascorbic acid takes on a yellowish tinge, so it is important to check your creams or serums before you put them on your face, and if there is any yellow discoloration, discard. Vitamin C in skin care offers many benefits such as reducing blotchiness, stimulates collagen, reduces fine lines and wrinkles and also protect against sun damage.

For informative skin care articles, how to videos, and skin care recipes, visit Complete Skin Care Therapy

About the Author:

Carol Belanger, author of 300+ Skin Care Recipes

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Necessary Vitamins in Skin Care Products

Simple Recipes for Skin Care

Puffed Eyes

Cut avocado into slices and place it under each eye and relax with it for next 20 minutes. The changes would be remarkable.

Eye Cream

Make an eye cream by mixing 5 drops of almond oil in 3 ripe slices of avocado. Blend this mixture and dab it around your eyes. Keep it for five minutes then rinse.

Another method of making the eye cream is by using 1/4 cup avocado oil with 1/4 cup aloe vera gel. You could also use apricot kernel, grape seed or sesame oil.

Facial Mask

This facial mask is useful for dry skin. Mash half avocado and apply it leisurely on your face. Keep it for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water.

Make a paste of ½ ripe avocado mixed with 1 tsp vegetable oil. Apply this paste on a washed and clean face. Leave it for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse it with warm water. This masque is very good for dry skin.

Smooth and Beautiful Hands

Make a paste by mixing 1/4 peeled & smashed avocado, 1 egg white, 2 tbsp. oatmeal and 1 tsp lemon juice. Apply this paste on your hand and leave it for 20 minutes. Rinse it with warm water and pat it dry. You would be thrilled by the results by using it regularly.

Facial Scrub

You would need 2 tbsp. flax seeds, 1/2 mashed banana and 1/2 avocado peel. Use a small bowl to mix flax seeds and banana. Scoop the banana and flax seed by using avocado peel. Massage this scoop on your face in circular motion, slowly and gently. Rinse it with warm water.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautions while following instructions on the recipes from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

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