My Healthy Fabulous Life

What in the World Is A Buddha’s Hand Fruit? And Yes, you can eat this thing!

It's the kind of item you stop to get a good look at in the grocery store. A Buddha's Hand Citron (var. sarcodactylis) looks like a lumpy lemon with fingers and smells like heaven.

Its ancestor, the citron, may have been brought to China from India by Buddhist monks and cultivated in ancient China near the Yangtze Valley. In China and Japan, the hybrid, also known as the Fingered Citron, is served around the new year because it is believed to symbolize happiness, wealth and longevity. Historically, the powerful lavender scent also made the plant attractive for ornamental purposes.

Today, Chinese farmers grow at least six distinct types of Buddha's Hand on 5,000 acres just south of Shanghai. It wasn't until the mid-to-late '80s that the fruit was commercially grown in California, and as of 2008, there were at least 25 acres dedicated to cultivating the fruit. The tree that grows the Buddha’s Hand is equally crazy; the fingered canopy can range between six and 12 feet in height.

Because the fruit has little to no flesh (pulp) and no seeds, like most commercial fruit trees, it must be grafted to propagate. But just because it’s a lot of rind doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it!

One thing some people do with this fruit is their laundry!!

We’re not joking about the aroma of the Buddha’s Hand, it smells good. So good, that it’s presence in a home is better than potpourri. "One reads of people carrying Buddha's-hand citron in their hands or placing them on tables for their strong, delicious odor; of their being used to perfume clothes when pressed; and of washing fine linen in citron juice." If the people in ancient china washed their clothes with it, why can’t we? And while you’re at it, dab a little bit of the citrus oil under your arms, would you?😍🤪

Longan Fruit: Health Benefits, Nutrition Information.

Health benefits
Longan Fruits are a good source of vitamin C. An ounce of fresh longan provides almost 40 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C, while an ounce of fresh lychee provides 33 percent. Vitamin C is important for healthy bones, blood vessels, and skin.

Fresh longan are high in most other essential vitamins and minerals. Including:

magnesium
phosphorous
potassium
copper
manganese

Fresh Longan fruits also provides some vitamins like niacin, vitamin B-6, and folate. Niacin may increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels in the body. Vitamin B-6 supports a healthy nervous system and helps your body metabolize carbs, proteins, and fats.

Longan also contains folate and have fiber. It improves overall bowel health. It may also lower cholesterol, improve gut flora, and help control blood sugar in people with diabetes.

About Pets & People

There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship. Most households in the United States have at least one pet.

Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include:

Decreased blood pressure
Decreased cholesterol levels
Decreased triglyceride levels
Decreased feelings of loneliness
Increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities
Increased opportunities for socialization

What are the health benefits of grapes?

Grapes come in different colors and forms. There are red, green, and purple grapes, seedless grapes, grape jelly, grape jam and grape juice, raisins, currents, and sultanas, not to mention wine.

Up to 8,000 years ago, people first cultivated grape vines in what is now the Middle East.

Today, 72 million tons of grapes are grown each year worldwide, mostly to produce wine. Every year, 7.2 trillion gallons of wine are produced. Grapes are also a popular finger food.

The nutrients in grapes offer a number of possible health benefits. They have been associated with prevention of cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, and constipation.

Nutrition
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), one cup of red or green grapes weighing around 151 grams (g) contains:

104 kilocalories
1.09 g of protein
0.24 g of fat
27.33 g of carbohydrate, of which 23.37 g is sugars
1.4 g of fiber
288 mg of potassium
15 milligrams (mg) of calcium
0.54 mg of iron
11 mg of magnesium
30 mg of phosphorus
3 mg of sodium
0.11 mg of zinc
4.8 mg of vitamin C
22 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin K
3 mcg of folate
Grapes also contain vitamins B and A, and they are high in water content. A cup of grapes contains over 121 g of water.

They are also high in antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin. The skins of red grapes contain the phytochemical resveratrol, which appears to protect against several chronic diseases and conditions.

The flavonoids myricetin and quercetin are also found in grapes. These help the body to counteract harmful free radical formation.

Some Healthy Lunch Ideas!

1. Sweet Potato- plane
2. Vegetable Grits
3. Egg and Avocado Sandwich
4. Skillet Bananas with Coconut and Chocolate Chips
5. Shrimp Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce
6. Salad with Chicken, Cheese, Carrots, Hummus, and Crackers
7. Chopped Quinoa Salad with Cranberries
8. Corn Tortilla with Melted Cheese, Sautéed Baby Greens, Salsa, & Fried Egg
9. Protein Salad
10. Almond-Crusted (Baked) Chicken Nuggets
11. Cauliflower Crust Pizza
12. Loaded Vegan Sandwich
13. Lentil Veggie Soup
14. Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
15. Black Bean Burrito Bowl

Ever Thought About Going Vegan?

VEGAN ESSENTIALS
In a plant-based lifestyle, there are quite a few things that I would consider Vegan Essentials. Items you used to be able to just pick up from the store and would always have in your pantry or refrigerator.

Sauces. Dips. Mixes. Things you just wouldn't think about - well, until you miss it.

VEGAN SAUCES AND CONDIMENTS
I don't know about you, but one of the hardest parts of going vegan is being able to easily dress a salad or slather sauce on your sandwich. It's not as easy as grabbing a bottle of Ranch dressing or Mayo from the fridge anymore. But it can be with recipes like my Vegan Ranch or Vegan Mayo. Always have a jar of those in the fridge so you won't be caught with a lackluster salad or sammie. My vegan cheese sauce is another vegan essential that can perk up the most boring salads, smother any burrito, or act as the best chip dip you've ever had since going vegan!

VEGAN PACKAGED GOODS
It used to be so easy to pick up a container of whipped cream or yogurt. And to top your hot chocolate with big fluffy marshmallows. Again, these are things you often don't think about missing out on, but I've got you covered with my all-time favorite Vegan Marshmallow Recipe to satisfy all your cocoa and s'mores needs. And it's never been easier to make a batch of homemade vegan yogurt with this recipe.

Health Benefits of Mangosteen

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is an exotic, tropical fruit with a slightly sweet and sour flavor.

It’s originally from Southeast Asia but can be found in various tropical regions around the world.

The fruit is sometimes referred to as purple mangosteen because of the deep purple color its rind develops when ripe. In contrast, the juicy inner flesh is bright white.

Though mangosteen is a relatively obscure fruit, it shouldn’t be overlooked, as it may offer many health benefits due to its rich supply of nutrients, fiber, and unique antioxidants.

Mangosteen is relatively low in calories yet provides many essential nutrients.

A 1-cup (196-gram) serving of canned, drained mangosteen offers:

Calories: 143
Carbs: 35 grams
Fiber: 3.5 grams
Fat: 1 gram
Protein: 1 gram
Vitamin C: 9% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Vitamin B9 (folate): 15% of the RDI
Vitamin B1 (thiamine): 7% of the RDI
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 6% of the RDI
Manganese: 10% of the RDI
Copper: 7% of the RDI
Magnesium: 6% of the RDI

The vitamins and minerals in mangosteen are important for maintaining many bodily functions, including DNA production, muscle contraction, wound healing, immunity, and nerve signaling.

Moreover, a single cup (196 grams) of this fruit provides almost 14% of the RDI for fiber — a nutrient often lacking in people’s diets.

SUMMARY
Mangosteen provides a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber while being low in calories. These nutrients are important for maintaining many functions in your body.

The healthiest Halloween candy, ranked from 'worst' to 'best'

Healthy versions of your favorite junk foods can be great alternatives to the real deal. When it comes to indulging in the real thing, however, it’s always good to know the nutrition content. Halloween candy is no different so I ranked your favorite treats from least to most healthiest.

When it comes to making the healthiest candy choices, I recommend going for candies that have low to no fat. Typically, that means fruit-flavored hard or chewy treats.

10. Twix-Fun Size Twix: 250 calories, 17 grams of sugar, 14 grams of total fat

9. Peanut M&M's- Fun Size M&M's Peanut: 180 calories, 18 grams of sugar, 10 grams of total fat

8. Raisinets-Fun Size Raisinets: 203 calories, 28 grams of sugar, 8.2 grams of total fat

7.Almond Joy- Snack Size Almond Joy: 160 calories, 16 grams of sugar, 9 grams of total fat

6. Snickers- Fun Size Snickers: 160 calories, 17 grams of sugar, 8 grams of total fat

5. Laffy Taffy-Mini Bar: 140 calories, 19 grams of sugar, 2 grams of total fat

4. Airheads- Mini Bars: 140 calories, 19 grams of sugar, 1.5 grams of total fat

3. Sour Patch Kids- Treat Size Sour Patch Kids: 120 calories, 22 grams of sugar, 0 grams of total fat

2. Tootsie Pops- Classic Tootsie Pop: 60 calories, 11 grams of sugar, 0 grams of total fat

1. Smarties- Smarties: 25 calories, 6 grams of sugar, 0 grams of total fat

6 Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy

When it comes to your mouth’s health, it’s not all about how straight your teeth are or how bright your smile is. You can’t forget about your gums! Even if you’re cavity-free and have the pearliest chompers in town, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to gum disease. Since it’s usually painless, most people have no idea that anything is wrong with their gums.

Gum disease is preventable. Here are a few ways you can help keep your gums healthy.

1. Floss at least once a day.
2. Get regular dental cleanings
3. Quit smoking
4. Brush twice a day
5. Use fluoride toothpaste
6. Use a therapeutic mouthwash

Your Body Will Thank You For Eating Salsa. I Love Homemade Salsa!!

Traditional tomato and jalapeño, or even mango or strawberry: Whichever type you prefer, salsa is one of the world’s most popular condiments. And it turns out it’s also a nutritional powerhouse.

Fresh salsa is one of the best ways to add more flavor to your food while also delivering essential (and tasty!) nutrients. With all the health benefits salsa boasts, you can add an extra serving to your favorite foods. There’s no need to hold back!

1. It’s a good dose of vitamin C
2. It can stabilize blood sugar
3. It’s hydrating
4. It’s healthy for your heart
5. It’s low in calories, but full of flavor
6. It contains potassium
7. It’s a good source of quercetin
8. It gives you a dose of citric acid

Bottom line
Whether you’re eating salsa on scrambled eggs, grilled fish, tacos, or any of your other favorite dishes, it’s a great addition to any meal! Not only will it provide numerous health benefits, but it’s also a perfect way to season your food without adding salt, sugar, or fat.

So feel free to keep your refrigerator stocked with this healthy condiment. Your health — and taste buds — will thank you!

Health and Nutrition Benefits of Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are tree nuts that have a subtle, butter-like flavor and creamy texture.

Native to Australia, macadamia trees are now grown in various places around the world, such as Brazil, Costa Rica, Hawaii, and New Zealand.

Like most other nuts, macadamia nuts are rich in nutrients and beneficial plant compounds. They’re also linked to several benefits, including improved digestion, heart health, weight management, and blood sugar control.

Rich in nutrients
Macadamia nuts are calorie-rich nuts that are high in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. One ounce (28 grams) offers:

Calories: 204
Fat: 23 grams
Protein: 2 grams
Carbs: 4 grams
Sugar: 1 gram
Fiber: 3 grams
Manganese: 58% of the Daily Value (DV)
Thiamine: 22% of the DV
Copper: 11% of the DV
Magnesium: 9% of the DV
Iron: 6% of the DV
Vitamin B6: 5% of the DV

Macadamia nuts are also rich in monounsaturated fats, a type of fat that may boost heart health by lowering your total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

These nuts are low in carbs and sugar and have a moderate fiber content. This combination makes them unlikely to spike your blood sugar levels, which may be especially beneficial for people with diabetes.

SUMMARY
Macadamia nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, yet low in carbs and sugar. What’s more, they boast healthy monounsaturated fats.

Yes, I Am Going To Talk About Mayonnaise!! HAHA!!

There seems to have a love-hate relationship with mayonnaise. It is the best-selling condiment in North America, and it is in a lot of popular American foods, from sandwiches and tuna salad to deviled eggs and tartar sauce. But mayonnaise has seemed to have acquired a bad reputation.

A high-fat food, mayonnaise is often thought to be unhealthy. It is mostly fat, and as a result, it's calorie-dense, so it's easy for calories and fat to quickly add up when you're not paying attention to portion sizes.

In addition, some people steer clear of the popular condiment due to concerns that improperly stored mayonnaise may be a hotbed for bacteria. The safety of potato salad left outdoors during a Fourth of July barbecue or a tuna salad sandwich from a food truck, for instance, may be questionable.

The truth is with careful selection, proper preparation and storage, and moderate use, mayonnaise can be a delicious and healthy addition to a low-carb diet.

What Is Mayonnaise?

Mayonnaise is a blend of different savory ingredients. When blended together, these ingredients become a thick, creamy, stable emulsion.

Mayonnaise is a combination of oil, egg yolk, an acidic liquid (like lemon juice or vinegar), and often a touch of mustard.

But Is Mayonnaise Unhealthy?

Depending on the type of diet you follow, mayo can be considered good or bad for you. Mayonnaise is mostly oil, so it is a high-fat and calorie-dense condiment 2 with 100 calories per tablespoon.

If you are on a low-fat or low-calorie diet, you'll want to exercise portion control and measure out the amount of mayo you use. For people on a low-carb or ketogenic diet, mayonnaise can be enjoyed more liberally.

Great Reason to Start Eating Chickpeas.

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are part of the legume family.

While they have become more popular recently, chickpeas have been grown in Middle Eastern countries for thousands of years.

Their nutty taste and grainy texture pairs well with several other foods and ingredients.

As a rich source of vitamins, minerals and fiber, chickpeas may offer a variety of health benefits, such as improving digestion, aiding weight management and reducing the risk of several diseases.

Additionally, chickpeas are high in protein and make an excellent replacement for meat in vegetarian and vegan diets.

Chickpeas have an impressive nutrition profile.

They contain a moderate amount of calories, providing 46 calories per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving. Approximately 67% of those calories are from carbs, while the rest comes from protein and a small amount of fat.

Chickpeas also provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, as well as a decent amount of fiber and protein.

A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving provides the following nutrients:

Calories: 46
Carbs: 8 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Protein: 3 grams
Folate: 12% of the RDI
Iron: 4% of the RDI
Phosphorus: 5% of the RDI
Copper: 5% of the RDI
Manganese: 14% of the RDI

SUMMARY
Chickpeas contain a moderate amount of calories and several vitamins and minerals. They’re also a good source of fiber and protein.

Someone Asked Me About Eggs Yesterday! They Are Very Healthy And Loaded With Protein!

As part of a balanced diet, eggs can provide many health benefits. A growing body of research suggests that eating eggs can also support weight loss.

Eggs are rich in protein, low in calories, and they may boost the metabolism.

Why are eggs good for weight loss?
Eggs may help promote weight loss for the following three reasons:

1. Eggs are nutritious and low in calories
Eggs are low in calories and rich in protein.
A large hard-boiled egg contains 78 calories and several important nutrients, including:

lutein and zeaxanthin, which are antioxidants that support healthy eyesight
vitamin D, which promotes bone health and immune function
choline, which boosts the metabolism and helps with fetal brain development

The simplest way to lose weight is to curb the intake of calories, and adding eggs to the diet may help.

For example, a lunch or dinner of two hard-boiled eggs and a cup of mixed vegetables contains just 274 calories.

However, cooking eggs with oils or butter increases the caloric and fat contents significantly. A tablespoon of olive oil, for example, contains 119 calories.

2. Eggs are rich in protein
Protein aids weight loss because it is extremely filling, and eggs are a good source of protein, with one large egg providing approximately 6 grams (g).

3. Eggs can boost the metabolism
Eating a high-protein diet can enhance the metabolism through a process called the thermic effect of food.

According to the findings of a 2014 study:

Protein increases a person’s metabolic rate by 15–30 percent.
Carbohydrates increase the metabolic rate by 5–10 percent.
Fats increase the metabolic rate by as much as 3 percent.

With Fall Right Around The Corner, Here Are Some Impressive Health Benefits of Pumpkin.

Pumpkin is a type of winter squash that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family.

It’s native to North America and particularly popular around Thanksgiving and Halloween.

In the US, pumpkin typically refers to Cucurbita pepo, an orange type of winter squash. In other regions, such as Australia, pumpkin may refer to any type of winter squash.

While commonly viewed as a vegetable, pumpkin is scientifically a fruit, as it contains seeds. That said, it’s nutritionally more similar to vegetables than fruits.

Beyond its delicious taste, pumpkin is nutritious and linked to many health benefits.

Here are some impressive nutrition and health benefits of pumpkin.

Highly Nutritious and Particularly Rich in Vitamin A.

One cup of cooked pumpkin (245 grams) contains:

Calories: 49
Fat: 0.2 grams
Protein: 2 grams
Carbs: 12 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Vitamin A: 245% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Vitamin C: 19% of the RDI
Potassium: 16% of the RDI
Copper: 11% of the RDI
Manganese: 11% of the RDI
Vitamin B2: 11% of the RDI
Vitamin E: 10% of the RDI
Iron: 8% of the RDI

Small amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, folate and several B vitamins.

Besides being packed with vitamins and minerals, pumpkin is also relatively low in calories, as it’s 94% water.

It’s also very high in beta-carotene, a carotenoid that your body turns into vitamin A.

Moreover, pumpkin seeds are edible, nutritious and linked to numerous health benefits.

SUMMARY
Pumpkin is high in vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. It’s also a great source of beta-carotene, a carotenoid that your body converts into vitamin A.

What About Rice Cakes? Not My Favorite But They Are Healthy!

Rice cakes were a popular snack during the low-fat craze of the 1980s, but you may wonder whether you should still be eating them.

Made from puffed rice pressed together into a cake, rice cakes are often eaten as a low-calorie substitute for bread and crackers.

While flavored varieties are available, the most basic kind is made only from rice and sometimes salt. As to be expected, they don’t have much flavor on their own.

ice cakes are essentially rice and air and thus don’t boast an impressive nutrient profile.

One plain rice cake made from brown rice offers:

Calories: 35
Carbs: 7.3 grams
Fiber: 0.4 grams
Protein: 0.7 grams
Fat: 0.3 grams
Niacin: 4% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Magnesium: 3% of the RDI
Phosphorus: 3% of the RDI
Manganese: 17% of the RDI
They also contain minimal amounts of vitamin E, riboflavin, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, iron, potassium, zinc, copper and selenium.

Their sodium content depends on whether they’re salted.

Additionally, the process of puffing rice as is used in making rice cakes, has been shown to decrease the rice’s antioxidant content.

Keep in mind that these nutrition facts are for plain rice cakes only. Flavored varieties often contain added sugars and other ingredients.

SUMMARY
Rice cakes are low in essential vitamins and minerals. They’re virtually fat-free and contain little protein or fiber. So judge for yourself whether to purchase them..

Ever Wonder If Dried Fruits Are Good For You? Me Too. Let's Find Out!!

Information about dried fruit is very conflicting.

Some say it is a nutritious, healthy snack, while others claim it is no better than candy.

What is Dried Fruit?

Dried fruit is fruit that has had almost all of the water content removed through drying methods.

The fruit shrinks during this process, leaving a small, energy-dense dried fruit.

Raisins are the most common type, followed by dates, prunes, figs and apricots.

Other varieties of dried fruit are also available, sometimes in candied form (sugar coated). These include mangoes, pineapples, cranberries, bananas and apples.

Dried fruit can be preserved for much longer than fresh fruit and can be a handy snack, particularly on long trips where refrigeration is not available.

Several studies have shown that people who eat dried fruit tend to weigh less and ingest more nutrients, compared to individuals not eating dried fruit..

However, these studies were observational in nature, so they can not prove that the dried fruit caused the improvements.

Dried fruit is also a good source of many plant compounds, including powerful antioxidants.

BOTTOM LINE:
Dried fruit has had most of the water content removed. The most common varieties are raisins, dates, prunes, figs and apricots. Eating them has been linked to an increased intake of nutrients and a reduced risk of weight gain.Judge for yourself but remember, they are still better for you than a candy bar...

HOW TO BUILD A HEALTHY TRAIL MIX!

Not all trail mixes are created equal! How to customize your homemade trail mix to your needs and wants!

I think good quality homemade trail mix, in moderation is 100% part of a healthy diet. Especially in those circumstances of high physical activity where you need energy, fast.

HEALTHY TRAIL MIX RECIPE

1. Nuts – Feel free to use any kind of nut here! Ideally, purchase raw nuts that haven’t been coated and roasted in hydrogenated or soybean oils and salt. You’re welcome to dry roast them at home for an added toastiness, but if you’re a nut purist, just keep them raw.

2. Seeds – Don’t forget about seeds! Often overlooked for the health benefits of nuts, seeds actually pack a serious nutritional punch including protein, iron, magnesium and an array of vitamins and minerals. Again, look for raw, unsalted seeds.

3. Dried Fruit – Because of the high sugar content in dried fruit, they’re a great snack to help boost your low blood sugar after a high dose of physical activity. Be careful when picking dried fruit! Do your best to find sun dried fruit that isn’t coated in sugar and is ideally unsulfured. It’s more expensive, but it’s worth it.

4. Fun Stuff!– Just because it’s healthy doesn’t mean you can’t throw in a little fun! I’m all about balance, so feel free to add in a handful of your favourite decadent or healthified decadent treat. Dark chocolate and popcorn are my favs so those are my go-tos but feel free to get a little crazy with some pretzels, peanut butter chips or other sweet treat.

INSTRUCTIONS
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
Store in a ziploc bag or mason jar.
Will keep for up to 1 month.

Some Impressive Health Benefits of Yogurt.

Yogurt has been consumed by humans for hundreds of years. It is a popular dairy product that's made by the bacterial fermentation of milk.

The bacteria used to make yogurt are called "yogurt cultures," which ferment lactose, the natural sugar found in milk.

This process produces lactic acid, a substance that causes milk proteins to curdle, giving yogurt its unique flavor and texture.

Yogurt can be made from all types of milk. Varieties made from skim milk are considered fat-free, whereas those made from whole milk are considered full-fat.

Plain yogurt without added colorants is a white, thick liquid with a tangy flavor.

Unfortunately, most commercial brands contain added ingredients, such as sugar and artificial flavors. These yogurts are not good for your health.

On the other hand, plain, unsweetened yogurt offers many health benefits.

1. It's Rich in Important Nutrients
2. It's High in Protein
3. Some Varieties May Benefit Digestive Health
4. It May Strengthen Your Immune System
5. It May Protect Against Osteoporosis
6. It May Benefit Heart Health
7. It May Promote Weight Management

The Bottom Line
Yogurt is rich in nutrients and may boost your health when consumed regularly.

It may help reduce the risk of some diseases, while also benefiting digestive health and weight control.

However, make sure to choose your yogurt wisely. For maximal health benefits, choose plain, unsweetened varieties that contain probiotics.

What Is Gout And Did You Know The Foods You Eat Can Cause It?

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that happens when too much uric acid builds up and forms crystals in your joints. Your body makes uric acid after it breaks down a substance called purine, which is found in many foods. Keep in mind that while what you eat can affect how much uric acid your body produces, the effects are small compared to medication.

No specific eating plan will completely prevent flare-ups, but a good gout diet will help you:

Reach a healthy weight
Set and stick to good eating habits
Limit foods with purines
Add foods that can help control uric acid levels

Foods to Avoid if You Have Gout

You should stay away from these types of food:

-Beer and grain liquors (like vodka and whiskey)
-Red meat, lamb, and pork
-Organ meats, such as liver, kidneys, and glandular meats like the thymus or pancreas (you may hear them called sweetbreads)
-Seafood, especially shellfish like shrimp, lobster, mussels, anchovies, and sardines
-High-fructose products like soda and some juices, cereal, ice cream, candy, and fast food

Best Foods for a Gout Diet
You’ll want to go for low-purine options like:

-Low-fat and nondairy fat products, such as yogurt and skim milk
-Fresh fruits and vegetables
-Nuts, peanut butter, and grains
-Fat and oil
-Potatoes, rice, bread, and pasta
-Eggs (in moderation)
-Meats like fish, chicken, and red meat are fine in moderation (around 4 to 6 ounces per day).
-Vegetables: You may see veggies like spinach and asparagus on the high-purine list, but studies show they don’t raise your risk of gout or gout attacks.

While a healthy diet can help control how much uric acid is in your system, you may still need medicine to prevent future attacks. Talk with your doctor about all your treatment options.

Surprising Health Benefits of Edamame

Edamame beans are whole, immature soybeans, sometimes referred to as vegetable-type soybeans.

They are green and differ in color from regular soybeans, which are typically light brown, tan or beige.

Edamame beans are often sold while still encased in their pods, which are not meant to be eaten. You can also buy shelled edamame, without the pods.

In the US, most edamame is sold frozen. Generally, you can easily heat the beans by boiling, steaming, pan-frying or microwaving them for a few minutes.

Traditionally, they are prepared with a pinch of salt and added to soups, stews, salads and noodle dishes, or simply eaten as a snack.

But is edamame healthy? The answer may depend on who you ask. Below are some health benefits breakdown..

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Edamame (RDI)
Folate 78%
Vitamin K1 33%
Thiamine 13%
Riboflavin 9%
Iron 13%
Copper 17%
Manganese 51%

Edamame contains significantly amount of vitamin K and folate.

In fact, if you eat a whole cup (155 grams), you will get around 52% of the RDI for vitamin K and more than 100% for folate.

Did You Know There Is Something Called "Long Beans?"

Also called yard beans (for their three-foot-length) and snake beans, these legumes are used much the same way as green beans, except they’re a bit tougher, requiring longer boiling or steaming. The flavor is similar, and like green beans, long beans grow on a vine. They're eaten principally in Malaysia, China, and the West Indies. A staple crop where they have been grown for centuries.

After frost, when soil has warmed, sow 1-2 inches deep, 4-6 inches apart in rows where plants are to grow. They are vigorous climbers need full sun and a trellis or other support.

They take heat and humidity better than common beans; recommended for the Deep South. Keep the pods picked to maintain production. Drought tolerant, but more productive with adequate moisture. The pods are stringless and tender, and taste best sauteed (not boiled).

Did You Know Certain Foods Can Boost Your Mood?

You already know that the food you eat each day plays a vital role in your overall health, but did you know that it can affect your mood too? Making healthier choices in your diet will not only help control your waistline, but it can also help lift your mood, and provide a long-lasting boost in energy and focus.

Since your brain is always working, it requires the right brain-boosting food with specific vitamins and high-quality nutrients to use as fuel throughout the day. The fuel we choose to eat can greatly affect our mood, energy, and our brain’s overall performance.

Our brains produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps calm and soothe us, giving us a more relaxed, cheerful mood. We recommend adding the best foods for good moods to your diet. These Foods can, maintain a healthy mood and self-confidence, and can even help sustain deep sleep, a healthy appetite, and social engagement.

7 Foods to Eat for a Brighter Mood

Here are seven mood-boosting foods that you should add to your next grocery list:

1. Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are all high in vitamin C, which helps cope with cortisol, a hormone that is released during times of stress.

2. Beans
Black beans, lentils, and lima beans are all rich in magnesium, a mineral that functions to provide relaxation and calm.

3. Dark Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the ultimate comfort foods. The very taste of chocolate can produce a near euphoric state in many people. Brain healthy dark chocolate is full of protein and fiber and supports a positive mood and healthy cognition.

4. Fish
Mackerel, salmon, sardines, and trout all have high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which can alleviate anxiety.

5. Herbal Teas
Many herbal teas, such as chamomile, have calming properties. Black, green, white and red (rooibos) teas are also rich in antioxidants. Drinking a cup of warm tea can relieve stress and lift the spirits.

6. Leafy Greens
Kale is loaded with mood-moderating magnesium and raw spinach contains bliss-enhancing nutrients.

7. Whole Fruits
Apples, bananas, and oranges are packed with fiber and vitamin C. The sweet tastes and aromatic smells of these fruits can brighten one’s outlook and promote well-being.