Apricots For Healthy Aging

Apricots are loaded with vitamins A, B3, B5, C, and K. Beta carotene, so necessary for control of cataracts and macular degeneration, is also a component of this versatile little fruit. Minerals found in apricots are copper, magnesium, potassium and phosphorous.

Used to make tarts and jams, they are also delicious when eaten raw. When fresh apricots are not in season, dried apricots provide a powerhouse of healthy ingredients.

Grandma Nature

Pumpkins come in all sizes and various varieties.

We all look forward to seeing Mr. Jolly Pumpkin in the autumn – that wonderful big round orange fruit hiding in the pumpkin patch.  What excitement to see one fully grown, ready to be picked.  Of course, immediately one thinks of carving a jack-o-lantern  or you might think of delicious pumpkin pie.  Whatever the association it is a time of year when nature is exploding in its autumn colors with rich yellows, reds, oranges…  And the pumpkin is a definite part of this.

Did you know that  pumpkin flowers may be eaten?  The bright orange color tells us, of course, that it is full of beta-carotene, such a necessary substance in curing eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts, cancer and heart disease.   Pumpkins are also full of minerals such as magnesium and iron and contain essential vitamins. Studies involving many men have proven that pumpkin seeds can slow down and even cure prostrate cancer.  Pumpkin seeds should be eaten daily on a regular basis in order to be effective.

So enjoy all aspects of the pumpkin’s decorative, nourishing and healthy aspects to enhance your age esteem.

Grandma Nature

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