I'm not referring to the sweaty pits after a #workout, but the avocado pits we toss in the trash after we scoop out the creamy goodness. You may want to start saving those pits for smoothies. Nutritional folklore has been touting the benefits for years but the verdict is still out as to whether the seeds are safe for human consumption. As stated in a 2013 research study by Pennsylvania State University," although the currently available data is promising, for most indications, it remains very preliminary and further studies are needed." What we do know is that #avocado seeds may improve conditions such as #hypertension, inflammatory conditions, and diabetes. Avocado pits are also full of #antioxidants and all kinds of healthy bonus stuff. They contain soluble fiber, which will make your gut happy. The high #fiber in the pits also makes you feel satisfied and curbs cravings. And they contain nutrients like #calcium, #magnesium, and #potassium. So how do you get pit powder? If you have a high-powered blender you can add the pit with your usual smoothie ingredients, If not, use a food processor to grind into a fine powder. Note: the powder on its own has a bitter taste, so pair it with strong flavors. You may want to use half the powder on your trial run and see how it suits your taste buds.
AHOY FOR AVOCADO BOATS!
We smash them on toast and mash them into guacamole and recently, avocado shells were used for lattes. Avocado boats are sailing into the lunch scene as a portable and yummy sandwich alternative. Simply scoop out the center and add the avocado to other tasty ingredients. Fill each half and enjoy! Here are a few suggestions:
New Take on Tuna - scoop out the center and add tuna, bell peppers, and a little heat like Jalapeño, if you like.
Pico de Avocado - Add black beans and Pico de Gallo or salsa for a vegetarian delight.
Taco Tuesday - Use leftover taco meat and fixings, sans the tortilla.
Lazy Day Caprese - cut cherry tomatoes in half, add mozzarella chunks, and drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the tops.
BUST A CRAVING FAST!
It strikes without warning - the sudden craving for a cheesy slice of #pizza or a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate-covered #donut. How can you bust a craving, when you're trying to cut back?
Mindful minute: Put three fingers from your left hand onto the wrist (like you're feeling for a pulse) of your right hand. Lay your hands on your lap and close your eyes and breathe deeply. Give yourself a minute to let thoughts come and go without judgment.
Time of Distraction: Set a timer for 5 minutes and text a friend, play Trivia Crack or update your status on Facebook.
Pinch it: Acupuncturists believe blocked energy can cause cravings. One way to restore energy and balance is an ancient #acupressure custom of pinching your nose or earlobes for 10 seconds.
DIRTY DOZEN
The Environmental Working Group has published their Dirty Dozen (plus two). These produce items contain the most pesticide residue: Apples, peaches, nectarines, #strawberries, grapes, celery, spinach, sweet bell peppers, #cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, snap peas (imported), potatoes, hot peppers, and kale/collard greens.
If at all possible, choose organic when buying these foods. It may be prudent to buy into a food co-op. You’ll know how the food is grown, support local agriculture, and save cash.
Visit localharvest.org or coopdirectory.org for more information.
Now, for the good news.
The Clean 15 list contains produce that are least likely to hold pesticide residue: #Avocados, sweet corn, #pineapples, cabbage, sweet peas (frozen), onions, asparagus, mangoes, papaya, kiwi, eggplant, #grapefruit, cantaloupe, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes.
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