Many of us remember Popeye and his advice to eat spinach in order to become big and strong!  Well, unfortunately, this is not exactly true.

Yes, spinach does have some iron but it also has oxalate, which prevent much of the iron from being absorbed by the body.  To counteract this, simply drink or eat something with the spinach that has a lot of vitamin C.  Red and green bell peppers, strawberries, cantaloupe, and Brussels sprouts are some sources. This is essential in helping the iron to be absorbed in the body.

There is still good news regarding spinach. Its dark green leaves are full of antioxidants which aid in preventing cardiovascular disease and cancer.  In addition, the vegetable is full of beta-carotene which will help in preventing eye diseases such as macular degeneration.

As some antioxidants are lost in cooking, it is very important to eat spinach raw or very slightly cooked.

Spinach Salad
Fresh spinach, washed
Add chopped hard boiled eggs, chopped red pepper, and garlic roasted croûtons.
Serve with a salad dressing of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice and a bit of mustard.

Yum.  So healthy.

Grandma Nature

What wonderful news!  Chocolate is good for you.  It can even help you age healthier.

Yes, it’s true.   Chocolate is full of antioxidants which help in preventing cardiovascular diseases.  However, it is dark chocolate that has the most antioxidants. – The darker the chocolate, the healthier it is.

Chocolate is also known to be an anti-depressant because it emits  chemicals in the brain which make you feel good and happy. If you are feeling down, have a piece of chocolate.  As in everything, it should be eaten in moderation because some consensus is that it is addictive!

Dark chocolate has a bitter taste. Now  chocolate can be found with nuts, of course, but also with raspberries, liquors and even chili and pepper.  The choice is yours.

Chocolate Mousse
For 2 people:
2 ounces dark chocolate
2 large eggs, separated
A few drops of rum (optional)

Put chocolate in a small basin with 1 spoon water. Melt.  Beat egg whites separately until they form stiff peaks.  Add egg yolks to chocolate mixture and rum and mix while heating on low flame. Let cool.  Fold in egg whites.
Chill for 3 hours.
NOTE:  Nowadays it is extremely important to be careful about eating raw eggs. Buy the very freshest eggs and refrigerate immediately.

Grandma Nature