Berry Delicious!

Who doesn’t love munching on fresh berries? They’re the perfect snack for any kind of day, and you have options – Gotta love options!

Blueberries, strawberries, cranberries, blackberries or raspberries. Eat them separately or mix them up.

Berries are full of powerful nutrients that feed the body and fight disease, while satisfying the taste buds and belly. They are full of vitamins, fibre and antioxidants.

Benefits:

• Improve vision
• Improve memory
• Lowers blood cholesterol levels
• Reduces the risk of arthritis
• Protects the brain and central nervous system
• Helps slow down neural aging and the onset of Alzheimer’s disease
• Reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes
• Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease
• Aids in constipation and digestive conditions
• Cranberries and blueberries contain a substance that may prevent bladder infections
• Slows aging 
• Reduces body fat 
• The antioxidant compounds found in berries may even help reduce the severity of certain types if cancers by decreasing cellular growth and division in cancerous tumor

Interesting info:

One cup of strawberries contains over 100 mg of vitamin C. We need vitamin C for immune system function and for strong connective tissue. Strawberries also add a bit of calcium, magnesium, folate and potassium and only 53 calories

One cup of blueberries offers a smaller amount of vitamin C, minerals and phytochemicals for only 83 calories. The same amount of cranberries is similar, but with only 44 calories

One cup of raspberries offers vitamin C and potassium for 64 calories

Make sure to wash your berries properly...



Nutritionista's Recipe Corner:

I made this 'Berry Platter' for Nour's birthday. It tasted as good as it looks...

All you need is:
- Fresh mint leaves - Slice each leaf in half
- Sliced strawberries
- Blackberries
- Toothpicks

Stay Healthy!

The RAW Truth

My heart's been set on visiting an authentic 'Raw' food restaurant for ages.

After numerous failed attempts at dinning 'Raw' Nour [my best friend] and I were convinced that experiencing a true 'raw' meal together was just not going to happen.

We decided to try one more time...

Determined, excited, and frankly, quite hungry, we finally made our way to 'Live.'

The restaurant is serene and welcoming, and the menu full of delicious options.

After our typical: "You pick," "No, No, you decide," and "Come on, just choose!" We finally settled on the 'Poutine,' Pecan 'Tempura' Sushi, Rainbow Kale and Walnut Salad, The Veggie 'Pounder,' and Chocolate Mousse Pie.  

The 'Poutine' came first and after the first bite we couldn't wait for the rest of our dinner.

The Pecan 'Tempura' Sushi was not only beautifully put together and a delightfully pleasing to the eyes, but also absolutely delicious. By far my favourite part of the meal. This dish is a must try!

[My stomach just grumbled at the thought of it!]

I found the Rainbow Kale and Walnut Salad a tad bland - this is only because I prefer my salads a little on the lemony side - But the raisins, walnuts and sun dried tomatoes were a fabulous touch that, I personally found, compliment the distinct taste of the kale.

The Veggie 'Pounder,' a cooked item, was at first site a little disappointing - "This is it?!?!? REALLY???" was Nour's reaction. The taste was a whole other story. The 'patty,' soft and full of flavour, is dressed with guacamole and BBQ sauce giving it the 'wow' factor.

Now Nour and I are advocates for trying new things, and believe that 'trying' means leaving room for at least one item from each course.

The Chocolate Mousse Pie was divine! Please excuse the half eaten pie in the picture, we were so excited and impressed by this portion of our meal that we forgot to take a picture when it arrived. I believe that this picture speaks a thousand words: IT WAS GOOD!

What is Raw food?
Raw foods are living foods that are eaten in their natural state. These foods are either not cooked or not heated above 118F. These are your typical vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and grains. For more information: Raw vs Cooked & Processed Foods By Rhio

The Health Benefits of a Raw Diet:

• Increased Energy
• Improved Skin Appearance
• Better Digestion - Raw foods contain high levels of enzymes, which assist in digestive processes and contribute to overall good health. 
• Weight Loss
• Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
• Better Nutritional Content - Fruits, Vegetables and plant foods are packed with nutrients. Heating destroys a fair bit of them.
• Dental Health - Cooked food reduces the need for use of one’s teeth, which reduces the  development of the jaw bones and teeth, and increases incidence of tooth decay.

For an in depth explanation: Raw Food Diet read raw Food Diet By Cathy Wong
 
If you're interested in giving Raw Food a try then give 'Live' a try. If you're up for a challenge, take the Raw Food Challenge!
 

Whatever it is you decide to do make sure you get outside and enjoy the weather, and, of course, always Stay Healthy!