Build a $300 underground greenhouse for year-round gardening (Video)

Build a $300 underground greenhouse for year-round gardening (Video) Build a $300 underground greenhouse for year-round gardening (Video) Kimberley Mok Kimberley Mok (@kimberleymok) Design / Green Architecture February 22, 2013 Share on Facebook Walipini © Neo-farms Growers in colder climates often utilize various approaches to extend the growing season or to give their crops a boost, whether it's coldframes, hoop houses or greenhouses. Greenhouses are usually glazed structures, but are typically expensive to construct and heat throughout the winter. A much more affordable and effective alternative to glass greenhouses is the walipini (an Aymara Indian word for a "place of warmth"), also known as an underground or pit greenhouse. First developed over 20 years ago for the cold mountainous regions of South America, this method allows growers to maintain a productive garden year-round, even in the coldest of climates. Here's a video tour of a walipini that shows what a basic version of this earth-sheltered solar greenhouse looks like inside: How a Walipini works and how to build one Walipini © Benson Institute It's a pretty intriguing set-up that combines the principles of passive solar heating with earth-sheltered building. But how to make one? From American sustainable agriculture non-profit Benson Institute comes this enlightening manual on how a walipini works, and how to build it: The Walipini utilizes nature’s resources to provide a warm, stable, well-lit environment for year-round vegetable production. Locating the growing area 6’ to 8’ underground and capturing and storing daytime solar radiation are the most important principles in building a successful Walipini. The Walipini, in simplest terms, is a rectangular hole in the ground 6 ‛ to 8’ deep covered by plastic sheeting. The longest area of the rectangle faces the winter sun -- to the north in the Southern Hemisphere and to the south in the Northern Hemisphere. A thick wall of rammed earth at the back of the building and a much lower wall at the front provide the needed angle for the plastic sheet roof. This roof seals the hole, provides an insulating airspace between the two layers of plastic (a sheet on the top and another on the bottom of the roof/poles) and allows the sun's rays to penetrate creating a warm, stable environment for plant growth. walipini SilverThunder/via This earth-sheltered greenhouse taps into the thermal mass of the earth, so that much less energy is needed to heat up the walipini's interior than an aboveground greenhouse. Of course, there are precautions to take in waterproofing, drainage and ventilating the walipini, while aligning it properly to the sun -- which the manual covers in detail. Best of all, according to the Benson Institute, their 20-foot by 74-foot walipni field model out in La Paz cost around $250 to $300 only, thanks to the use of free labour provided by owners and neighbours, and the use of cheaper materials like plastic ultraviolet (UV) protective sheeting and PVC piping. Cheap but effective, the underground greenhouse is a great way for growers to produce food year-round in colder climates. More over at the Benson Institute and the Pure Energy Systems Wiki. Related on TreeHugger.com: Midwestern geothermal greenhouse provides local citrus year round for $1 a day Couple surrounds eco-home with greenhouse to keep it warm (Video) 3 easy DIY greenhouses for under $300 Icelandic turf houses are old-school green with a Viking twist (photos) Tags: Agriculture | Do It Yourself | Food Security | Gardening | video FACEBOOK TWITTER GOOGLE+ PINTEREST 288 Comments TreeHugger.com Login 1 Recommend 42 Share Sort by Newest Avatar Join the discussion… Avatar Angelliqus Darka • 25 days ago In the Nederlands it's nemed a cold kas. The ground gifts 4 celsius. But in the picture, it veel good. 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar ☠ expect resistance ✪ • 2 months ago Wow amazing! 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar Lucio Bovolini • 3 months ago Can we build it on our roof? is the foil is UV-protected? • Reply•Share › Avatar mzungu • 3 months ago Once you dig that far down, there is no soil, but rocks and gravel. The man power needed to dig such holes is pretty $$, that's why most house are above ground. :P Try these instead. http://www.lowtechmagazine.com... • Reply•Share › Avatar sharon sampson • 3 months ago Another HUGE problem I am seeing is the drainage. They have created a 'Perched Water Table'...kinda upside down but people do this all the time in their POTS or container gardens. Here is the basic idea: LARGE pore spaces (of gravel or rocks) below a layer with teensy tiny pore spaces. In order for the water to drain into the large pore spaces of the rock and/or gravel the teensy pore spaces have to be completely saturated before any drainage occurs. NOT GOOD. Never put rock in the bottom of a pot under the soil. The soil has to become SATURATED before any movement of the water into the gravel occurs. And that is just too much water that drains too slowly...they need a herringbone drainage with perforated drain pipe covered with 'landscape fabric'...most importantly a slope of the floor of subsoil...using as little gravels/drain rock as possible to assist water to gather around the p pipe to be taken away. I'd hate to see this type of greenhouse in a huge rainstorm...around here it would be a swimming pool. • Reply•Share › Avatar mesagoat • 4 months ago the kid is the cutest thing about this video • Reply•Share › Avatar Spaghetti • 4 months ago If you go through the heat gain and loss calculations correctly for temperate climates you'll see that you need to store 'all' of the excess summer heat in the ground/water tanks storage and release this slowly through the winter in order to avoid freezing. If you look at the top diagram carefully the answer lies there. Roof is at 90° to WINTER SOLSTICE angle. No problem with snow as the roof in temperate zones is so steep, in fact so steep it might just as well be vertical which is why walipinis don't work in most temperate areas. There are some wonderful architectural examples done at cost no object, but look at true performance carefully. • Reply•Share › Avatar Harley Daws Spaghetti • 19 days ago works for us !! solar wall is at 22 degree slope.... • Reply•Share › Avatar Catbeller • 5 months ago Why not just build a home like that? • Reply•Share › Avatar Harley Daws Catbeller • 19 days ago a friend has his walpini attached to the southwest side of the house; it also helps heat the house; veggies, dates, grapes, thrive • Reply•Share › Avatar Kool3reeze • 5 months ago "plastic ultraviolet (UV) protective sheeting" that seems counter productive for a greenhouse. am I missing something? • Reply•Share › Avatar Diana McCandless Kool3reeze • 3 months ago The UV protection makes the plastic last longer, not break down in the sun, and also helps prevent scorch on the plants & cell damage. Plants don't prefer UV light, they prefer Red light and Deep Blue light, because those are 2 wavelengths at which the Chlorophylls jump energy states. Since the plants absorb the Red and blue, none of the Red and deep blue light is reflected, just the rejected "green" part in the middle of the light spectrum. 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar RT Kool3reeze • 5 months ago The foil is UV-protected (UV resistant, UV stabilized), so it does let through the UV-rays for the plants. I think. • Reply•Share › Avatar GLeeK • 5 months ago Hey TheOneWhoMakesThingsRun Do you even get out of bed in the mornings. You could slip on a banana peel ya know. Just stay in bed where it's nice and safe. • Reply•Share › Avatar TheOneWhoMakesThingsRun GLeeK • 5 months ago You obviously have no idea what a proper trenching or digging site looks like or how deadly this can be. You should really do even basic research before criticizing someone. But maybe you like to put yourself and loved ones in danger. Tell you what go up to the next construction crew you see digging a ditch more than even waste deep see if they think its not important that proper shoring and setbacks be done. Give you a hint, a cave in happens in the blink of an eye and you are crushed with tons of dirt and rock. You cannot breathe, lots of times your head is covered too, and even if they can dig you out it is very likely you will not survive and if you do you most likely will never be able to work again. Crushing injuries are one of the most deadly and damaging. 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar Tyson TheOneWhoMakesThingsRun • 5 months ago I agree that you should have proper research for trench angles and know what type of ground you have. But it looks like the ends of the trench have a brick wall of some form so he's covered there, the slopes look half decent, they don't have to be regulation. If its firm ground those slopes may never move, you don't need shoring for 95 percent of trenchs, trust me i have my tickets for trench building and worked for years in trenchs. We have even had flash rains while working and it fills the trenches to the top with water but they don't generally just collapse if its solid ground, not to say its not impossible. If you want this as a long term solution it can't hurt to have a little bit of shoring but that can be left till it shows some signs of weakening. Or if you find you have an ingrained stream running in part of it, you should definitely shore around that part of it but its not needing for the whole area. Really the best thing you could do for it is to have a gutter system on your roof to direct the rainfall down and away from the building or have it so the water runs into a holding tank inside. I think this could be a great greenhouse to have pending its built properly. Some heating system would be required where i live though. • Reply•Share › Avatar Mike GLeeK • 5 months ago Look up trench collapse and trench rescue. Trench collapse is especially a problem in areas with significant seasonal changes. • Reply•Share › Avatar Frederick Douglass Mike • 5 months ago So you don't follow proper safety procedures when digging. • Reply•Share › Avatar Mike Frederick Douglass • 5 months ago The point is that it doesn't appear that the makers of this video did. There was a recent rescue in the area where I work because a trench was left unsecured and the homeowner became trapped in it. Trenches can be unsafe and deadly if not performed properly. • Reply•Share › Avatar TheOneWhoMakesThingsRun • 5 months ago This is actually a very dangerous video. Improper shoring of the walls or sloping of them can and will result in cave in. Many people are killed and injured every year because of a ditch cave in. I am not saying you cannot build one of these but rather without proper knowledge you are asking for trouble and possible life threating injury. Do not let it being wide fool you it can suddenly slip in just the same. 2 • Reply•Share › Avatar MyParentsKid TheOneWhoMakesThingsRun • 5 months ago Actually it depends a lot on the composition of the dirt... He is right though a dirt can "slough" and any walls above ground should be added past the "slough" line which is basically a 45 degree angle from the lowest point of the dig. 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar Carol Zangla • 5 months ago Seems to me a rigid plexiglass roof would be needed to support snow. 3 • Reply•Share › Avatar kacky • 5 months ago Great use for an old cellar hole • Reply•Share › Avatar Patrick M Mitchell • 6 months ago How do they get around the lack of wind and insect pollination? 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar CaptainAmerica69 Patrick M Mitchell • 5 months ago Usually bumble bees • Reply•Share › Avatar Frederick Douglass • 9 months ago So a big thermal mass and really good insulation and you can build it on your roof. • Reply•Share › Avatar Christopher Solesbee Frederick Douglass • 6 months ago And a very well supported roof to support the amount of dirt you'd have to bring up, including water/produce weight 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar Frederick Douglass Christopher Solesbee • 6 months ago I don't build down to code. 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar MyParentsKid Frederick Douglass • 5 months ago A lot of dead people have said that... 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar Frederick Douglass MyParentsKid • 5 months ago Well their are liars that build below code and say it is better but I never had my work fail an inspection because I build stronger then code requires. 2 • Reply•Share › Avatar jabwocky Frederick Douglass • 5 months ago I agree, many build below code, I am in the architectural plan business, I see failures are the time, I too build over code... • Reply•Share › Avatar Paul Harris • 9 months ago Any experience in using one of these in a hot climate desert such as the Southern California Palm Springs area? I'm thinking in mid-summer could it provide a cooler temperature for growing crops? 2 • Reply•Share › Avatar Christopher Solesbee Paul Harris • 6 months ago Make it in reverse since Socal doesn't deal with frost winters. Plus active automatic venting would help immensely • Reply•Share › Avatar Francesco Delvillani • 9 months ago What's the temperature you can have inside if outside there are 10F ? 2 • Reply•Share › Avatar CandideThirtythree • 10 months ago This is cool but would not work at all in Louisiana, dig 2 feet down and you hit water. Can't even have in ground pools here because they explode from the water underneath pushing them up. Not that it ever gets very cold here anyway but we are moving to Colorado where cold will be an issue. There I think the issue will be how far down you can dig before you hit rock. The arroyo at the back of the property is about 30 feet high or deep however you describe it and it looks like almost perfectly square stones in layers all the way up. I can only imagine that is what we will find as we dig down too. Maybe it would work if it was just half down and half above? 2 • Reply•Share › Avatar Melissa Therrien CandideThirtythree • 4 months ago This might help: http://www.resilience.org/stor... That way you wouldn't have to dig into the ground but you can still have a garden by method of a fruit wall. Pretty interesting stuff. • Reply•Share › Avatar Doug • a year ago Interesting project, terrible video! It is grainy and full of wind noises, then he impolitely tells "Todd" (his kid) to not bother him, and then farts!?! I couldn't watch any more.. 2 • Reply•Share › Avatar Common Sense • a year ago Does anyone know how well these will cope in a temperate climate? Cool to cold winters with a fair amount of rain? Looking for real world examples with design and materials used. • Reply•Share › Avatar thoomfoote Common Sense • 7 months ago I am building a partial earth sheltered in eastern Washington, zone 6a. It should take my growing season into December and allow me to start in late Feb. As well as temp, light intensity and duration are two other key elements. • Reply•Share › Avatar Vincent Wolf • a year ago Just pour a typical basement foundation with slab and insulate it well and then cover it up with glass, plexiglass or plastic to capture the suns warmth. Nothing new there or here. 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar Bill • a year ago Add to this a rocket mass heater, as depicted here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?..., and you have yourself a very nice growing space. • Reply•Share › Avatar Sherry Jones • a year ago When farming it's always a good idea to let a field lay fallow every few years to allow the soil nutrients to replenish. Does the same principle apply with the walipini? • Reply•Share › Avatar Richard Gray Sherry Jones • 5 months ago Rotate crops and bring in composted materials. Acutally, adding compost would help to raise the temperature inside the wallipini. • Reply•Share › Avatar bloodyheck • a year ago I live in OH, and as it is now, my (95 year old) house's basement, sits on top of the water table by scant inches, there is always 6-8" of water in the sump even if it hasn't rained for weeks (rarely happens) how do I dig down and avoid water, or after a rain have it not turn into an in-ground swimming pool? • Reply•Share › Avatar Sherry Hively- Powell bloodyheck • 5 months ago Build it in a slant or hillside & it sounds as if you have a spring under your home or very close in proximity to you foundation • Reply•Share › Avatar mary • a year ago In the northern third of NM optimum south facing greenhouse windows are at 70 degree angle. A pit below that is an intriguing idea. I have a lot of patio doors and 20, 10ft sheets of UV greenhouse clear sheets. Worth a try. And a pit is cheaper to dig than building an above group structure. • Reply•Share › Avatar Wolfsbane • a year ago This reminds me of the concepts in Mike Oehler's The $50 & Up Underground House Book http://www.undergroundhousing.... 1 • Reply•Share › Avatar Trevor • a year ago So this works well in the Winter? I'm in Central WI and REALLY want to build this, but I want to make sure there is enough sunlight for good growth in the winter. • Reply•Share › Avatar BeholdersEye • a year ago Is it a building or hole in ground? I say, hole in ground, no property tax or permits need apply.... • Reply•Share › − Avatar jack_k1 • a year ago We get about 180 inches of snow each winter, and the temps get down to as low as -40 C with a frost depth of 2m or more. Can you recommend a design for this sort of weather? • Reply•Share › Load more comments Powered by Disqus Subscribe Add Disqus to your site Privacy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hV8Teiskfo&list=PL5b0hZQBbi3bAuJDkWIqPs-kcqOCddI9-&index=7 http://gardening.streamshare.com/posts/6051

vineyard in pristine condition

Thinking Humanity This army of 900 ducks keeps a South African - so mu

AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH THEN AND NOW: WHAT’S CHANGED FOR OUR CLIMATE SINCE 2006?

AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH THEN AND NOW: WHAT’S CHANGED FOR OUR CLIMATE SINCE 2006? Here’s what’s changed for our planet since An Inconvenient Truth sparked a global movement against climate change a decade ago. If you saw An Inconvenient Truth featuring former Vice President Al Gore back in 2006, chances are you left the theater a little stunned and asking a whole lot of questions. Questions like, “What can we do?” “What can I do?” If so, you weren’t the only one. Fortunately. This month marks the 10th anniversary of the groundbreaking film that prompted millions to start asking questions about climate change and doing something about it, helping shape the modern climate movement we know today. And in the decade since, a lot has changed as a result. Climate science has made major advances, helping us better understand the challenge we face. Renewable energy, such as solar and wind, is cheaper than fossil fuel-based electricity in many parts of the world. Electric cars are even becoming mainstream (well, for some). But as much progress as we’ve seen over the past decade, there’s still a lot of work to do to build the sustainable future our planet needs. Let’s take a look at what’s changed – for better or for worse – in the fight against climate change over the past 10 years. SOLAR POWER IS BOOMING One of the biggest success stories in climate solutions is the growth of solar power. In 2015, the US installed 7,260 megawatts direct current (MWdc) of photovoltaic solar which was the largest annual total in history and a giant leap from the 105 MWdc installed in 2006. That's more than a 6,800-percent increase. It gets better. Solar reached a new record in early 2016 when the one-millionth solar installation came online in the US. And according to a report by GTM Research, the US solar market is projected to grow 119 percent in 2016 alone – adding more than double the amount of capacity installed last year. We could go on (and on) about the rapid growth and benefits of solar energy, but you get the idea: solar is here to stay. CARBON EMISSIONS ARE RISING Carbon emissions account for between 65–76 percent of the greenhouse gases from human activity, causing the Earth's temperature to rise at its fastest rate in millions of years. While natural variance in the Earth’s carbon cycle leads to some fluctuations in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, overall, we can see a clear connection between fossil fuels and these levels, which have increased about 40 percent since pre-industrial times. But what’s scary is that in the last 10 years alone, CO2 levels have increased 5.5 percent, jumping from 382 parts-per-million (PPM) in July 2006 to 404 PPM in April 2016. Which means more heat trapped in our atmosphere. ELECTRIC CARS HAVE TAKEN THE WORLD BY STORM You might have started spotting electric cars on the road more and more in recent years as both major manufacturers like Chevrolet and Nissan and boutique firms like Tesla Motors have seen their real market potential. But while electric cars have gained exceptional notoriety in the past decade, they’re actually a novelty of the past. British engineer, Thomas Parker, invented the first electric car in 1884, which used rechargeable batteries. Gasoline-powered cars hadn’t gained much traction yet, but by the 1930s, engine improvements and the invention of the electric starter made gasoline-fueled cars a better, cheaper option. You know what happens after that. Fast forward to 2003 when Tesla Motors launched, a company that set out to prove electric cars could be a more efficient and environmentally-friendly option than gasoline-powered cars. Tesla’s first electric car, the Tesla Roadster, launched to the public in 2008 and dramatically shifted how consumers views these vehicles. Since then, more and more manufacturers from BMW to Kia to Mercedes Benz have launched their own electric vehicles, taking the technology mainstream and reaching 1 million sales globally in September 2015. GLOBAL SURFACE TEMPERATURES ARE INCREASING It’s no secret that 14 of the 15 hottest years ever recorded have occurred since 2001. Last year was the hottest year on record, and 2016 is on pace to be even warmer. These record-breaking temperatures become crystal clear when they're displayed visually. The chart below shows how global surface temperatures have varied from the long-term averages since 1880. Look at the trend beginning around 1950 and you’ll see temperature changes steadily increasing throughout the second half of the twentieth century. And within the past decade alone, global temperatures have deviated from the long-term average by 0.63 degrees Celsius (1.13 degrees Fahrenheit) in 2006 to 0.87 degrees Celsius (1.57 degrees Fahrenheit) in 2015. All of this to say our planet is warming like never before in recent history – and it’s only getting hotter. ../../../Desktop/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-09%20at%201.48.15%20 SEA LEVELS ARE RISING Sea levels have been rising for the past century – and the pace has only increased in the past decade as glaciers melt faster and water temperatures increase, causing oceans to expand. The chart below shows sea-level changes from 1993–2006 where, from June 2006 to January 2016, sea levels increased about 41.24 millimeters (1.62 inches). You can imagine how this change would affect the half of the global population that lives in towns and cities within 60 kilometers (37 miles) of the coast, including eight of the world’s 10 largest cities. These rising sea levels puts millions of people at risk worldwide as storms intensify and more extreme flooding occurs. WORLD LEADERS SIGNED THE PARIS AGREEMENT In 2006, concerted international action on climate change was still just sputtering along. The Kyoto Protocol – the first serious attempt at setting international targets for reducing emissions – had gone into effect the year before, but the US never ratified the agreement and splits between developed and developing nations meant it never worked quite as well as had been hoped. But what these failings did was kickstart a search for a better model of international cooperation on climate action. It wasn’t smooth sailing all the way, as the heartbreak of Copenhagen showed in 2009, when negotiators simply walked out and talks on a new climate treaty dissolved. But in the years that followed, countries kept talking and kept working on a new kind of framework that could bring nations at every stage of development together to solve our common challenge, leading to the landmark Paris Agreement last December. It wasn’t easy getting there, but the Paris Agreement represents a real turning point. Formally signed this Earth Day, the deal is the first of its kind to set global targets for reducing carbon emissions and includes commitments from major carbon emitters like the US, China, and India. OUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT Yes, we have a lot of work ahead to stop climate change. But in the past 10 years, the world has made incredible progress in areas like advancing climate science, rapidly growing renewable energy technologies, and international cooperation. And while we’re not going to claim An Inconvenient Truth was solely responsible for all these developments, what the film did was bring the challenge of climate change out into the open and into mainstream culture like never before. The result was people in every time zone started asking themselves what they could do – and got working on the answers. Thanks to their answers and all the breakthroughs above, today we know we can solve it, if we stay committed to this path – and if our world leaders follow through with their commitments to reducing emissions in the Paris Agreement. And that’s a truth worth sharing. Ready to take action for the future of our planet? Sign up below to recommit to climate action on the 10th anniversary of An Inconvenient Truth.

SEE WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF YOU DRINK TOMATO JUICE EVERY DAY Written By Admin on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 | 9:16:00 PM

Numerous active supplements present in tomato juice make it an appealing choice for a healthy& well-balanced diet.Following are key benefit of tomatoes you must know, and consume a glass full of tomato juice every day. Tomato juice is packed with vitamins Freshly made tomato juice is a natural source of A & C vitamins. With its regular consumption, your eyesight will improve from any disorder or disease.It boost immune system, and keep bones and teeth healthy. Cholesterol is greatly reduced Cholesterol level increase owing to poor dietary habits. Fiber present in tomatoes reduce cholesterol level. A superb detoxifier Junk foods are full of additives and toxins. Chlorine and sulfur present in tomatoes stimulate kidney and liver functionality. Hence, its best drink for detoxification. Intestine functionality stimulation Intestinal-malfunction is found in millions of people around the globe. Luckily, tomato juice regulate digestion, protecting against constipation, and improve intestinal disorders. An aid in weight loss If you’re planing your diet, tomato juice will be perfect for your health. It hydrate your body, its rich in fiber content, and help with cravings. It is a great source of nutrients that our body need to digest food. Heart disease prevention Tomatoes area great source of vitamin B6. This vitamin help prevent heart disease. It fight against homocysteine, which is an amino acid that cause problem for blood vessels. Apply to your skin Tomato juice can be consumed, or applied directly onto the skin. It’s a bleaching power that remove scars, stains, acne, and close skin pores. Free radical destruction By consuming one glass of tomato juice per day, free radicals in our body are greatly reduced. Free radicals are extremely harmful,and if left unattended,they may lead to cancer. So keep drinking tomato juice to be at your best health. (Source)

Chicory Root: The Coffee Substitute that Treats Diabetes, Constipation & Osteoarthritis

http://draxe.com/chicory-root/?utm_campaign=Article-May-2016&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&utm_term=chicory Do you love your morning of cup of coffee but worried about caffeine overdose? Chicory root just may be the answer you’re looking for. This popular coffee substitute does more than just take the place of your favorite breakfast accompaniment, however. In addition to providing added fiber to foods, chicory root has a smooth, creamy feeling in the mouth similar to fat. That makes it a great fat replacement in ice creams, margarines and dressings. While this sounds ideal, we cannot bypass the need for the high-quality fiber found in whole fruits, vegetables, some whole grains and other high-fiber foods that help promote overall good health. However, chicory root has some great benefits as well when used in moderation, which is why it may just become a part of your everyday routine. Benefits of Chicory Root 1. Reduces Stress For anyone who has issues with stress, caffeine can exacerbate that issue. Caffeine, of course, is a main ingredient found in coffee, and even small amounts are found in the decaffeinated versions. Consuming less caffeine can really help lower epinephrine and cortisol levels when sleeping and during stressful life circumstances. A 2006 study published in Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior showed that repeated consumption of caffeine combined with stress caused a significant elevation in cortisol levels. (1) Since chicory contains no caffeine, it’s a great substitute to reduce your caffeine consumption and get cortisol levels in check, thereby reducing stress. 2. Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties Plant polyphenols have the ability to help combat inflammation. A study was conducted at by the Department of Pathophysiology and Gerontology at the University of Pécs Medical School in Hungary with 27 healthy volunteers who were asked to consume caffeine-free chicory coffee, a rich source of plant phenols, for one week. Significant improvements were seen in red blood cell deformability, which describes the body’s ability to respond to inflammation by restoring cells to their original condition. (2, 3) This means chicory can reduce inflammation, which is huge. Why? Because inflammation is the root of most diseases, so when you can lower bodywide inflammation, you can stave off many health problems before they even have the chance to start. 3. Protects the Liver The ability of chicory root extract to protect against chemical-induced free radicals and possible toxicity to the liver was reviewed in a 2015 medical review. Subjects were divided into four groups, according to treatment type, and levels of free radical damage and antioxidants were reviewed during the process. Pretreatment with chicory extract significantly reduced oxidative stress and prevented cell damage, ultimately improving liver conditions due to toxicity. (4) Results demonstrated that chicory extract is rich in natural antioxidants and able to scavenge reactive free radicals. Therefore, it boosts the defense system of the body while also cleansing the liver. 4. May Prevent or Delay the Onset of Diabetes Diabetes is a major issue in the U.S., but it doesn’t have to be. There are many natural ways to manage and treat diabetes, and it begins with diet. Chicory may be a good addition to a diabetic diet plan to help prevent or treat this all too common medical condition. The extract from roasted chicory root was examined in a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, examining its effects on blood glucose, lipid metabolism and fecal properties in 47 healthy adult participants. The level of adiponectin, a protein that regulates glucose levels as well as the fatty acid breakdown, significantly improved in those participants who had the chicory root extract. These results suggest that chicory root extract could delay or prevent the early onset of diabetes as well as improve bowel movements due to the fibrous makeup. (5) 5. Helps Manage Osteoarthritis A clinical trial conducted by the Rheumatic Diseases Division at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center’s Department of Internal Medicine suggests that the extracts of chicory root have anti-inflammatory properties that may help with arthritic symptoms, particularly degenerative joint disease, aka osteoarthritis. Individuals over the age of 50 with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee were treated with chicory, with researchers measuring vital signs through routine lab tests throughout the test period and at the end. Eighteen patients who completed treatment per protocol were analyzed, and at least 13 patients showed a 20 percent improvement in response to pain and stiffness, showcasing chicory’s ability to help treat this joint pain. (6) 6. Aids Gut Health Chicory root contains oligosaccharide-enriched inulin, which is a prebiotic. The inulin in chicory root is also known as a prebiotic fiber because it’s highly fermentable by the friendly bacteria in the gut. Prebiotics can help promote the growth of helpful probiotics in your digestive system and may enhance calcium absorption. This is why you’re likely to see inulin, or chicory root fiber, in probiotic supplements. (7) This can be good but also uncomfortable since the gut will produce more gas with more fermentation. If you ever wonder why something you ate may be upsetting your stomach, it could be due to the amount of inulin your body is trying to process possibly, causing gas, bloating and pain. 7. Relieves Constipation Chicory root has been shown to relieve constipation thanks in large part to its inulin role. Research published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition examined the impact of daily consumption of 15 grams of chicory on elderly constipated volunteers. The double-blind, placebo-controlled study took place over 28 days. The study revealed that “volunteers in the inulin group reported increased satisfaction about digestion and reduced defecation difficulties during the supplementation. … Daily supplementation with 15 grams inulin improves constipation and quality of life in an elderly population with constipation.” (8) Chicory Root Nutrition One raw chicory root, which is about 60 grams, contains approximately: (9) 44 calories 10.5 grams carbohydrates 0.8 gram protein 0.1 gram fat 0.9 gram fiber 0.1 milligram vitamin B6 (7 percent DV) 0.1 milligram manganese (7 percent DV) 3.0 milligrams vitamin C (5 percent DV) 74 milligrams potassium (5 percent DV) Chicory Root Uses Chicory root is an inulin, a type of plant-based carbohydrate that cannot be broken down by human digestive enzymes, and it’s often used in high-fiber and gluten-free products. This is is done by pulling the inulin from the roots of chicory plants, producing chicory root extract. What is inulin? Inulin is classified as soluble and as a prebiotic. Soluble fibers can hold water and thicken or gel up, which can add bulk to foods. It’s one of these reasons it’s widely used, along with its ability to provide moisture and a creamy texture. Inulin is frequently seen in low-fat or dairy-free yogurt, ice cream and ready-to-drink protein shakes. Breads and baked goods may contain inulin to replace gluten as well. Since there are so many gluten sensitivities, food producers had to find a replacement — which is where inulin made way to the stage. Soluble fibers also help slow down the time it takes for food to travel through the body, which can help you feel full and can have a positive effect on blood sugar. Ice cream, yogurt, protein shakes, high-fiber/low-carb bars, energy bars, cereals, breads and granola products often contain chicory root. While chicory root provides that bulk and creamy texture, it also makes products appear healthier by boosting their fiber content without the calories. In addition, it’s cheap to manufacture and has a naturally sweet taste. This is yet another attractive characteristic for food manufacturers of low-carb products allowing them to use inulin to provide some sweetness without added sugar, calories or carbs. Inulin’s pleasant taste and low cost are reasons why it’s been used in combination with coffee during times of shortages. In fact, that discovery led to what is still known today as New Orleans-style coffee or chicory root coffee, which is a blend of regular or decaffeinated coffee and chicory root powder. (10, 11) Chicory Root vs. Psyllium Husk Chicory root and psyllium husk contain many similar fibrous characteristics, as both are useful for diabetics, constipation and are prebiotics. Psyllium husk comes from a shrub-like herb called Plantago ovata, which grows worldwide but is most common in India and is in the form of a seed. Meanwhile, chicory root is the root of the chicory plant and has a pleasantly,sweet taste. Both can be taken as supplements or ground and added to smoothies, for example. Here’s how the two stack up: (12) Chicory Root Natural, plant-based starch Treats diabetes Relieves constipation High in triglycerides Improves cholesterol levels Prebiotic High-fiber Remedies IBS Treats diarrhea Treats eczema Relieves gas and bloating Psyllium Husk Natural, plant-based starch Treats diabetes Relieves constipation High in triglycerides Improves cholesterol levels Prebiotic High-fiber Treats diarrhea Helps eczema Relieves gas and bloating Reduces colon cancer risk and heart disease Treats hemorrhoids, hypertension and inflammatory bowel diseases History and Origin of Chicory Root Chicory root comes from a perennial herbaceous plant of the dandelion family, called chicory, that usually has bright blue flowers. Many varieties are cultivated for salad leaves, which you may know as endive or chicons, but the roots are ground and used for baking and, most popularly, as a coffee substitute. Chicory root is a bit wood-like, being fibrous in nature. Due to its fibrous composition, it’s not digested in the small intestine but instead maintains its forms as is travels to the colon or large intestine. The chicory root (Cichorium Intybus) has been around for some time, cultivated since ancient Egypt and is a bushy perennial herb with blue flowers in the Asteraceae family. It’s been a popular addition to coffee in France since the 19th century where it’s commonly roasted and ground. It’s thought that the coffee mixed with chicory concoction probably began in Holland, becoming more popular across parts of Europe around 1801. Chicory root has traditionally been used in tea or in medicinal remedies to treat jaundice, liver enlargement, gout and rheumatism. While chicory became an American interest, coffee became the beverage of choice. New Orleans became the second largest importer of coffee in the U.S. However, it was during the American Civil War that Louisianans considered adding chicory root to their coffee due to the Union naval blockades cutting off shipments to the port. In fact, chicory root was used often in times of shortages of coffee, such as during the Civil War and the Great Depression, and even in prisons to help stretch out the coffee supply. That caffeine buzz known as a coffee fix started a long time ago. Since shipments of coffee had halted, New Orleans had to get creative so the people could extend their supply as much as possible. They used acorns and beets, and though these additions lacked the caffeine, chicory had a similar flavor as coffee, making it a much better match in addition to being cheaper. Regardless, a New Orleans native will tell you that it’s one of the best and most delicious traditions and a must-have when visiting. Known as the chicory in a café au lait, which is chicory coffee with hot milk, it has become an essential part of the history of New Orleans. You can find chicory a the grocery in the coffee aisle, and most claim that the few brands available all originated in New Orleans and that the chicory is still be imported from France. (13, 14, 15) Chicory Root Risks There are numerous studies that still need to be conducted regarding chicory root and chicory root extract. While these studies show that it contains many benefits, it’s always best to get fiber from whole foods when possible. If you’re pregnant, have any disease or if disease is common in your family, make sure to check with your doctor before consuming chicory root. Final Thoughts on Chicory Root Chicory root has been shown to reduce stress, contain anti-inflammatory properties, protect the liver, possibly prevent or delay the onset of diabetes, help manage osteoarthritis, aid gut health, and relieve constipation. Chicory root is an inulin, a type of plant-based carbohydrate that cannot be broken down by human digestive enzymes, and it’s often used in high-fiber and gluten-free products. This is is done by pulling the inulin from the roots of chicory plants, producing chicory root extract. Inulin is classified as soluble and as a prebiotic. Soluble fibers can hold water and thicken or gel up, which can add bulk to foods. It’s one of these reasons it’s widely used, along with its ability to provide moisture and a creamy texture. Read Next: 6 Inulin Fiber Benefits, Uses and Surprising Facts

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The Plant That Kills Cancer Cells, Stop Diabetes and Boosts Your Immune System! Written By Admin on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 |

Goya, or otherwise known as Karela, is a “bitter-melon” fruit that has been used for health benefits in countries all over the world for a long period of time. It grows well in humid and hot climates and can be mostly found in South America and Asia. It is a common traditional medicine in China, India, Asia and some southeastern parts of US. Goya, or otherwise known as Karela, is a “bitter-melon” fruit that has been used for health benefits in countries all over the world for a long period of time. It grows well in humid and hot climates and can be mostly found in South America and Asia. It is a common traditional medicine in China, India, Asia and some southeastern parts of US. This healthy melon has an extremely bitter taste, and its shape resembles a bumpy cucumber. However, the natural components in it were found to be able to treat patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. To be more specific, the founder of the effects of this amazing fruit was Dr. Frank Shallenberger M.D. who specializes in Anti Aging treatments and Alternative Medicine at the Nevada Center of Alternative & Anti- Aging Medicine. Dr. Shallenberger always advises his patients to trust nature and use natural products and substances in treating any kind of sickness. He states that this miraculous fruit inhibits cancer cell growth effectively. Namely, according to his latest findings, a 5% solution of bitter melon juice can fight pancreatic cancer. This fruit destroys cancer cell lines by 90 and 98% percent. Its effect was further examined at the University of Colorado, and the results showed a reduction of 64% in the size of pancreatic tumors. Therefore, this research only confirmed the benefits and powerful action of the bitter melon. Furthermore, it also plays a great part in the treatment of skin infection, diabetes symptoms, asthma, stomach problems and hypertension. These are the most important health benefits of the bitter melon: It cleanses and detoxifies the liver, relieves gout pain and stimulates blood circulation. Goya juice increases the stability of yourimmune system and resistance of your body against infections. It stimulates food peristalsis and eases the digestionuntil the food is finally excreted through the bowel and out of the system. The bitter melon is rich in polypeptide-P, a phytonutrient which lowers blood sugar. Bitter melon also contains a special charantin, known to increase glycogen synthesis and glucose uptake in the liver, muscles, and adipose tissues. Both of them lower blood sugar, which is essential for patients with type-2 diabetes. It relieves the hangover, as it accelerates the metabolism, and at the same time, it nourishes and cleanses the liver after the consumption of alcohol. The regular consumption of its juice helps relieve psoriasisand fungal infections, such as Athlete’s feet and ringworms. It improves the eyesight and relieves the vision problem, as it is abundant in beta-carotene It is a source of folatewhich reduces the occurrence of neural tube defect in newborns. When consumed regularly, it boosts your stamina and energy level. (Source)

pumpkin sweet trea... Read More at www.deliciousobsessions.com/2015/10/gluten-free-sweet-pumpkin-treats/ © Delicious Obsessions

October 12th, 2015 - by Jessica Young 60+ Gluten Free Sweet Pumpkin Treats Recipes desserts gluten free pumpkin snacks Like this Post? Please Share the Love! This post may contain affiliate links. It does not cost you anything and helps maintain th... Read More at www.deliciousobsessions.com/2015/10/gluten-free-sweet-pumpkin-treats/ © Delicious Obsessions

30-healthiest-foods">30 Healthiest Foods of All Time April 13, 2015 | 667,155 views

30 Healthiest Foods of All Time April 13, 2015 | 667,155 views | Available in EspañolDisponible en Español Spread the Word to Friends And Family By Sharing this Article. 263 inShare 2K+ 999 Email to a friend Email Print By Dr. Mercola In a survey of at-home spending patterns on food among US households, the Economic Research Service (ERS) of the US Department of Agriculture revealed Americans are throwing a lot of their food budgets toward very unhealthy foods. The average US household spent most of their food budget (nearly 18 percent) on refined grains followed by sugar and candies (at nearly 14 percent). The next highest category was red meat (mostly from concentrated animal feeding operations, or CAFOs), followed by frozen or refrigerated entrees and beverages.1 In stark contrast, Americans spent less than 0.5 percent of their food budget on dark green vegetables and a similar amount on orange vegetables. Other vegetables made up less than 4 percent of at-home food spending and whole fruits just over 6 percent. As reported by Forbes:2 "It is not that shoppers are spending less than they should on food in general. We spend 17 percent of our food shopping dollars on refined grains (more than three times what is recommended). …And while the USDA recommends spending less than 1 percent on sugar and candies, most Americans spend closer to 14 percent of their food budget on sweets. This means that it is in fact not the desire to save money that makes us eat badly, but our own poor choices." I believe it is partly a matter of making good choices and partly a matter of getting educated about which foods are truly healthy. Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to break the bank to eat good food. In fact, many of the healthiest foods that follow are quite economical. Even better, because there are so many healthy foods, you can plan your meals around what's in season… and what's on sale. In order to protect your health, I advise spending 90 percent of your food budget on whole foods, and only 10 percent on processed foods. Choosing from the list below is a very good start to feeding your family right. The 30 Top Healthiest Foods The slideshow above features 30 of the healthiest foods you eat. Below, I've detailed 15 of them. 1. Avocado Avocados, which are actually classified as a fruit, are low in fructose and rich in healthy monounsaturated fat and potassium, and research has confirmed the avocado's ability to benefit vascular function and heart health. Personally, I eat a whole avocado virtually every day, which I usually put in my salad. This increases my healthy fat and calorie intake without raising my protein or carbohydrate intake by much. Avocados are also very high in potassium (more than twice the amount found in a banana) and will help balance your vitally important potassium-to-sodium ratio. Avocados also provide close to 20 essential health-boosting nutrients, including fiber, vitamin E, B-vitamins, and folic acid. Besides eating them raw, you can use avocado as a fat substitute in recipes calling for butter or other oils. Another boon of avocados—they're one of the safest fruits you can buy conventionally grown, so you don't need to spend more for organic ones. Their thick skin protects the inner fruit from pesticides. 2. Swiss Chard Swiss chard belongs to the chenopod food family, along with beets and spinach. It's an excellent source of vitamins C, E, and A (in the form of beta-carotene) along with the minerals manganese and zinc.3 When you eat Swiss chard, you get a wealth of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. As reported by the George Mateljan Foundation:4 "The range of phytonutrients in chard is even more extensive than researchers initially suspected, and at this point in time, about three dozen antioxidant phytonutrients have been identified in chard, including betalains (both betacyanins and betaxanthins) and epoxyxanthophylls. Many of these antioxidant phytonutrients provide chard with its colorful stems, stalks, and leaf veins." The betalin pigments in Swiss chard (which are also found in beets) support your body's Phase 2 detoxification process, which is when broken down toxins are bound to other molecules so they can be excreted from your body. Swiss chard also contains an important mix of nutrients, including high amounts of both magnesium and vitamin K1, to support your bone health. In addition, Swiss chard contains a flavonoid called syringic acid, which may help regulate blood sugar and provide benefits to those with diabetes, along with kaempferol, a flavonol that may help fight cancer and lower your risk of chronic diseases including heart disease. 3. Garlic Garlic is rich in manganese, calcium, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamins B6 and C, so it's beneficial for your bones as well as your thyroid. It's thought that much of garlic's therapeutic effect comes from its sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, which are also what give it its characteristic smell. Other health-promoting compounds include oligosaccharides, arginine-rich proteins, selenium, and flavonoids.5 There is research demonstrating garlic's effects for more than 160 different diseases.6 In general, its benefits fall into four main categories: Reducing inflammation (reduces the risk of osteoarthritis and other disease associated with inflammation Boosting immune function (antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic properties) Improving cardiovascular health and circulation (protects against clotting, retards plaque, improves lipids, and reduces blood pressure) Toxic to 14 kinds of cancer cells (including brain, lung, breast, gastric, and pancreatic) In addition, garlic may be effective against drug-resistant bacteria, and research has revealed that as allicin digests in your body, it produces sulfenic acid, a compound that reacts with dangerous free radicals faster than any other known compound.7 This is one of the reasons why I named garlic as one of the top seven anti-aging foods you can consume. 4. Sprouts Sprouts may offer some of the highest levels of nutrition available, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes that help protect against free radical damage. Fresh broccoli sprouts, for instance, are far more potent than whole broccoli, allowing you to eat far less in terms of quantity. For example, research has revealed that three-day old broccoli sprouts consistently contain anywhere from 10-100 times the amount of glucoraphanin—a chemoprotective compound—found in mature broccoli.8 The compound glucoraphanin also appears to have a protective effect against toxic pollutants by improving your body's ability to eliminate or excrete them. Glucoraphanin has also been shown to protect against cancer. Sprouts are far less expensive (90 percent or greater) if made at home rather than purchased, so I strongly recommend growing your own sprouts. Try broccoli sprouts, watercress sprouts, and sunflower sprouts, for starters. 5. Mushrooms Aside from being rich in protein, fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, calcium, and minerals, mushrooms are excellent sources of antioxidants. They contain polyphenols and selenium, which are common in the plant world, as well as antioxidants that are unique to mushrooms. One such antioxidant is ergothioneine, which scientists are now beginning to recognize as a "master antioxidant." A study in the journal Nature9 discussed the importance of ergothioneine, which is fairly exclusive to mushrooms, describing it as "an unusual sulfur-containing derivative of the amino acid, histidine," which appears to have a very specific role in protecting your DNA from oxidative damage. In addition, some of the most potent immunosupportive agents come from mushrooms, and this is one reason why they're so beneficial for both preventing and treating cancer. Long-chain polysaccharides, particularly alpha and beta glucan molecules, are primarily responsible for the mushrooms' beneficial effect on your immune system. In one study, adding one or two servings of dried shiitake mushrooms was found to have a beneficial, modulating effect on immune system function.10 6. Kale Just one cup of kale will flood your body with disease-fighting vitamins K, A, and C, along with respectable amounts of manganese, copper, B vitamins, fiber, calcium, and potassium. With each serving of kale, you'll also find more than 45 unique flavonoids, which have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.11 Kale is also a good source of cancer-fighting sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol. To date, kale has been found to lower the risk of at least five types of cancer, including bladder, breast, colon, ovary, and prostate.12 The glucosinolates in kale and other cruciferous vegetables break down into products that help protect DNA from damage.13 While some research suggests raw kale is best for cancer prevention, other studies suggest lightly cooked is best, in part because it improves kale's ability to bind with bile acids in your digestive tract. This makes the bile acids easier for your body to excrete, which not only has a beneficial impact on your cholesterol levels, but also on your risk of cancer (bile acids have been associated with an increased risk of cancer). 7. Spinach Spinach is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including folate, vitamin A, iron, potassium, calcium, zinc, and selenium. Spinach also contains flavonoids that may help protect your body from free radicals, while offering anti-inflammatory benefits and antioxidant support. As reported by the George Mateljan Foundation:14 "While this mixture of conventional nutrients gives spinach a unique status in the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory department, it is the unusual mixture of phytonutrients in spinach that "seals the deal" in terms of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components. In terms of flavonoids, spinach is a unique source of methylenedioxyflavonol glucuronides, and in terms of carotenoids, its difficult to find a more helpful source of lutein and zeaxanthin. The epoxyxanthophyll carotenoids neoxanthin and violaxanthin are also welcomed constituents of spinach leaves." 8. Collard Greens Collard greens are a close cousin to kale and they are, nutritionally, very similar. Rich in vitamin K and phytonutrients – caffeic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol – collard greens help lower oxidative stress in your cells while fighting inflammation. Collard greens contain glucosinolates called glucobrassicin that can convert into an isothiocyanate molecule called indole-3-carbinol, or I3C, a compound with the ability to activate and prevent an inflammatory response at its earliest stage.15 Other phytonutrients in collard greens, specifically diindolylmethane and sulforaphane, have been clinically proven to combat breast, prostate, ovarian, cervical, and colon cancer cells, help prevent their growth and even help prevent them from forming in the first place.16 Also noteworthy, collard greens are especially high in fiber, with more than 7 grams per cup, making it ideal for digestive support. They're also particularly useful for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. According to the George Mateljan Foundation:17 "In a recent study, steamed collard greens outshined steamed kale, mustard greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage in terms of its ability to bind bile acids in the digestive tract. When this bile acid binding takes place, it is easier for the bile acids to be excreted from the body. Since bile acids are made from cholesterol, the net impact of this bile acid binding is a lowering of the body's cholesterol level. It's worth noting that steamed collards show much greater bile acid binding ability than raw collards." For the best collard greens flavor and texture, choose slightly smaller leaves than the toughest outer layer. If you're not sure how to cook them, try this 5-minute collard greens recipe. 9. Tomatoes Tomatoes—especially organic tomatoes—are packed with nutrition, including a variety of phytochemicals that boast a long list of health benefits. Tomatoes are an excellent source of lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin C (which is most concentrated in the jelly-like substance that surrounds the seeds), as well as vitamins A, E, and the B vitamins, potassium, manganese, and phosphorus. Some lesser-known phytonutrients in tomatoes include: Flavonols: rutin, kaempferol, and quercetin Flavonones: naringenin and chalconaringenin Hydroxycinnamic acids: caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and coumaric acid Glycosides: esculeoside A Fatty acid derivatives: 9-oxo-octadecadienoic acid Tomatoes are also a particularly concentrated source of lycopene — a carotenoid antioxidant that gives fruits and vegetables like tomatoes and watermelon a pink or red color. Lycopene's antioxidant activity has long been suggested to be more powerful than other carotenoids such as beta-carotene, and research suggests it may significantly lower your risk for stroke and cancer. In addition to lowering your risk for stroke, lycopene from tomatoes (including unsweetened organic tomato sauce) has also been deemed helpful in treating prostate cancer. Interestingly, when cooked, the bioavailability of lycopene increases rather than decreases, making cooked tomatoes, such as in tomato sauce, a particularly healthy option. 10. Cauliflower One serving of cauliflower contains 77 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C. It's also a good source of vitamin K, protein, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber, vitamin B6, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, and manganese. Cauliflower is a good source of choline, a B vitamin known for its role in brain development, and contains a wealth of anti-inflammatory nutrients to help keep inflammation in check, including I3C, which may operate at the genetic level to help prevent the inflammatory responses at its foundational level.18 Compounds in cauliflower also show anti-cancer effects. According to the National Cancer Institute:19 "Indoles and isothiocyanates have been found to inhibit the development of cancer in several organs in rats and mice, including the bladder, breast, colon, liver, lung, and stomach." Cauliflower also helps your body's ability to detoxify in multiple ways. It contains antioxidants that support Phase 1 detoxification along with sulfur-containing nutrients important for Phase 2 detox activities. The glucosinolates in cauliflower also activate detoxification enzymes.20 It's a rich source of fiber, as well, and has significant digestive benefits. Adding to cauliflower's appeal is its extreme versatility. You can eat it raw, add it to salads, or use it in your cooking. Cauliflower can even be seasoned and mashed for a healthier version of mashed "potatoes." According to the George Mateljan Foundation:21 "Researchers have determined that the sulforaphane made from a glucosinolate in cauliflower (glucoraphanin) can help protect the lining of your stomach. Sulforaphane provides you with this health benefit by preventing bacterial overgrowth of Helicobacter pylori in your stomach or too much clinging by this bacterium to your stomach wall." 11. Onions To date, onions have shown a wealth of beneficial properties; they're anti-allergic, anti-histaminic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant,22 all rolled into one. Polyphenols are plant compounds recognized for their disease prevention, antioxidant and anti-aging properties. Onions have a particularly high concentration, with more polyphenols than garlic, leeks, tomatoes, carrots and red bell pepper.23 In particular, onions are especially rich in polyphenol flavonoids called quercetin. Quercetin is an antioxidant that many believe prevent histamine release—making quercetin-rich foods "natural antihistamines." Onions contain numerous anti-cancer compounds, including quercetin, which has been shown to decrease cancer tumor initiation as well as inhibit the proliferation of cultured ovarian, breast and colon cancer cells.24 People who eat more onions, as well as other allium vegetables, have a lower risk of many types of cancer, including:25 Prostate and breast Ovarian and endometrial Colorectal and gastric Esophageal and laryngeal Renal cell 12. Wild-Caught Alaskan Salmon Salmon provides omega-3 fats eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which can benefit many aspects of your health, from your cardiovascular system to mental and behavioral health to your digestive health. It may even help prevent premature death. Research suggests that eating oily fish like wild-caught Alaskan salmon once or twice a week may increase your lifespan by more than two years, and reduce your risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by 35 percent.26 Salmon also contains the antioxidant astaxanthin, which has been hailed as one of the most powerful antioxidants ever discovered due to its ability to quench multiple types of free radicals simultaneously. Findings have shown that it is stronger than other carotenoid antioxidants, such as vitamin E, beta-carotene, and lycopene. Astaxanthin also exhibits beneficial properties that make it useful for heart, eye, and brain health, as well as for alleviating chronic pain. The key to eating fish these days is to choose fish that are high in healthy omega-3 fats, and low in hazardous contaminants. Wild-caught Alaskan salmon (NOT farmed) fits this description, and is one of the few types of fish I still recommend eating. 13. Organic Pastured Eggs Proteins are essential to the building, maintenance, and repair of your body tissues, including your skin, internal organs, and muscles. Proteins are also major components of your immune system and hormones. While proteins are found in many types of food, only foods from animal sources, such as meat and eggs, contain "complete proteins," meaning they contain all of the essential amino acids. Eggs also contain lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health, choline for your brain, nervous and cardiovascular systems, and naturally occurring B12. Eggs are powerhouses of healthy nutrition, provided they're harvested from organically raised, free-range, pastured chickens. The nutritional differences between true free-ranging chicken eggs and commercially farmed eggs are a result of the different diets eaten by the two groups of chickens. You can tell the eggs are free range or pastured by the color of the egg yolk. Foraged hens produce eggs with bright orange yolks. Dull, pale yellow yolks are a sure sign you're getting eggs from caged hens that are not allowed to forage for their natural diet. Your best source for fresh eggs is a local farmer that allows his hens to forage freely outdoors. 14. Organic Coconut Oil Besides being excellent for your thyroid and your metabolism, coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which converts in your body to monolaurin, a monoglyceride capable of destroying lipid-coated viruses such as HIV and herpes, influenza, measles, gram-negative bacteria, and protozoa such as Giardia lamblia. Its medium chain fatty acids (MCTs) also impart a number of health benefits, including raising your body's metabolism and fighting off pathogens. Additionally, a very exciting and recent discovery is that coconut oil may serve as a natural treatment for Alzheimer's disease, as MCTs are also a primary source of ketone bodies, which act as an alternate source of brain fuel that can help prevent the brain atrophy associated with dementia. Coconut oil is easy on your digestive system and does not produce an insulin spike in your bloodstream, so for a quick energy boost, you could simply eat a spoonful of coconut oil or add it to your food. Make sure you choose an organic coconut oil that is unrefined, unbleached, made without heat processing or chemicals, and does not contain genetically engineered ingredients. As an added boon, coconut oil has countless other uses besides cooking and eating -- from topical beauty applications to first aid treatments, to general household cleaning. 15. Nuts Mounting research suggests that nuts may help you live longer and even support weight loss. This isn't so surprising considering the fact that tree nuts are high in healthy fats that, contrary to popular belief, your body needs for optimal function. My favorite nuts are macadamia and pecans, as they provide the highest amount of healthy fat while being on the lower end in terms of carbs and protein. The main fatty acid in macadamia nuts is the monounsaturated fat oleic acid (about 60 percent). This is about the level found in olives, which are well known for their health benefits. And a Bonus: Bone Broth Bone broth contains a variety of valuable nutrients, including calcium, collagen, and bone marrow, in a form your body can easily absorb and use. Homemade bone broth may help reduce joint pain and inflammation, promote strong bones, and boost hair and nail growth. Visit Our Food Facts Library for Empowering Nutrition Information If you want to learn even more about what's in the food you're eating, visit our Food Facts library. Most people are not aware of the wealth of nutrients available in healthful foods, particularly organic fruits and vegetables. By getting to know your food, you can make informed decisions about how to eat healthier and thereby boost your brain function, lower your risk of chronic disease, lose weight, and much more. Food Facts is a directory of the most highly recommended health foods to add to your wholesome diet. Its purpose is to provide you with valuable information about various types of foods including recipes to help you maximize these benefits. You'll learn about nutrition facts, scientific studies, and even interesting trivia about each food in the Food Facts library. Remember, knowing what's in your food is the first step to choosing and preparing nutritious meals each and every day. So visit Mercola Food Facts today to get started. Spread the Word to Friends And Family By Sharing this Article. 263 inShare 2K+ 999 Email to a friend Email Print [+] Sources and References

Spices That Can Significantly Improve Your Health

Healthy Diet Styles 32 mins · 6 Spices That Can Significantly Improve Your Health http://healthplate.net/6-spices-can-significantly-improve-…/ 6 Spices That Can Significantly Improve Your Health - Health Plate Salt and pepper are not the only condiments that we can use when preparing food. These spices will not only improve your meal’s taste, but they will also help… HEALTHPLATE.NET