Question: What is it? Answer: Linum usitatissimum, or plan old flax, is a blue-flowered crop that has been used as a food source since 3000 B.C. Flaxseed, a reddish-brown, chewy seed, is rich in protein, fat & dietary fiber. The quality of flaxseed protein is similar to that of a soybean & the quality of its fat is similar to that of canola oil. Question: What’s so great about it? Answer: Flaxseed is a rich source of several minerals and phytochemicals that have been shown to protect against the development of certain types of...
read moreThis all-green smoothie recipe not only looks pretty, but it tastes wonderful. Experiment with the ingredients or try the green smoothie recipe as it is listed below. Beware: I don’t ‘measure’ ingredients for this or any other green smoothie recipe. I have found that I prefer the consistency when I use frozen fruit and less ice, such as banana slices or frozen mango cubes (from fresh). Another factor that affects flavor, nutrition profile and consistency of this green smoothie recipe and other smoothies is the use of protein...
read moreAbout the Green Smoothie Green smoothies are everywhere. Go to the bookstore and you’ll find titles such as the ‘Green Smoothies Diet’ and ‘Green Smoothie Revolution.’ But what are green smoothies? Do these blended drinks taste like grass? Do you have to buy a $500.00 blender to make them? Many people think that is the case…HARDLY! I was a green smoothie sceptic at first but now I’m a huge fan and have fun experimenting with all kinds of fruit and vegetable combinations. There is no one-and-only...
read moreAbout the Mango Fruit The mango is a large fruit that grows on trees in sub-tropical and tropical climates. Originating in Southeast Asia, where it has been cultivated for 4,000 years. Mango trees are actually evergreens that will grow up to 60 feet tall but fruit an average of 5 years after planting. Mango trees yield the best crops during hot, dry periods. The U.S. imports most of its mangos from Mexico, Haiti, the Caribbean and South America but grows them in Florida as well. You’ll find mangos in the produce section of your grocery...
read moreThe avocado is a very unique fruit. Yes, it is a fruit. Though an avocado is a high-calorie, high-fat fruit, its nutrition and health benefits are beyond compare. This is definitely a food you should incorporate into your diet. This abundant cash crop was introduced to the United States, by Mexico, in the 19th century and today, roughly 95% of U.S. avocado production is located in southern California. Avocados are cultivated in Florida as well. Avocado: Varieties There are two flowering types of avocados (categorized as “A” or...
read moreQ: What is the succulent fruit of the ficus tree? A: The fig of course! The fig is actually not a fruit but a flower that has inverted itself, producing an edible, sweet, chewy, seed-filled flesh. If your only exposure to or taste of a fig is via a “newton,” (aka cookie) then you’re missing out on one of the world’s healthiest and tastiest fruits! Cleopatra’s favorite fruit, the fig, originated in western Asia and is thought to have been introduced to the U.S. by a Spanish missionary in the late 1500’s. The...
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