the mighty apple

                 

                        

Need a quick pick-me-up?  Looking for a fast, convenient snack on-the-go?  Reach for an apple!  Packed with powerful nutrients and healthy fiber, these savory little treats will satisfy your hunger and your sweet tooth.  As a child, my mom would always have a drawer full of apples in the refrigerator as the perfect afternoon or evening snack.  To this day, everyone in my family grabs an apple if they're looking for something to munch on between meals.  Establish a healthy home and healthy snacks from day one in your children's lives and you'll set them up for a lifetime of success in making the best choices for their nutrition. Not to mention, September is National Apple Month.  And so is October.  And November.  (In 1904, National Apple week was founded.  The event has since spread across the season of the apple harvest and runs from September through November each year.)  See, apples are so awesome that they merit receiving recognition not one, but 3 months out of the year! ;) The benefits of apples are numerous.  Here are just a few of their mighty health benefits:

Brain Boost:  Apples contain an antioxidant called quercetin which has been found to protect neurons against free radical damage.  In one study, apple juice improved behavior and mood in Alzheimer's patients. 

Heart Health:  Eating an apple a day may protect against heart disease and lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol. 

Lower Blood Pressure:  People who eat apples are more likely to have lower blood pressure (and trimmer waists!).  

Cancer Prevention:  Quercetin has been linked to hindering the growth of cancer; daily apple consumption helps protect against colorectal cancer.  

Breath Easier:  Moms, check this out - children of apple-eating moms were less likely to show signs of asthma at age five.  Apples are rich in fiber and flavonoids, which may reduce respiratory symptoms.  

When it comes to selecting apples, always go for organic.  Leave the pesticides of conventional produce behind, as the skin of apples contain many beneficial nutrients.  Enjoy an apple every day - they may just be one of God's perfect, portable snack foods!  

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freshly pressed watermelon juice

The last days of summer may be upon us, but cooling off in this warm weather still merits a glass of refreshing, crisp watermelon juice.  The best kind?  Fresh-pressed.  Juicing provides a myriad of health benefits (as a supplement to nutritionally sound meals).  If you don't already own a juicer, consider it an investment in your health.  By extracting the nutrients from vegetables and fruits, juicing allows our bodies to absorb the nutrients like a sponge while consuming an optimal amount of vegetables in an efficient manner.  Among its copious benefits, juicing helps to lower blood pressure, prevent cancer, provide increased energy, and hydrate the skin.  If you are new to juicing, Watermelon Juice would be a palatable start.  Light, sweet, and refreshing, this recipe is simple and super easy.  Just add chunks of watermelon to your juicer along with fresh lemon, to taste.  Serve in chilled glasses and enjoy!

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