Add Leukemia to the impressive list of cancers the powerful antioxidant, Sulforaphane is known to fight!

Cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and kale are a great source of fiber, nutrients and antioxidants, but what sets them apart from other vegetables is their exceptionally high level of a distinctive phytonutrient.

Sulforaphane has been shown to have strong anti-cancer properties. This class of vegetables contains high levels of sulphoraphane, an antioxident, which activates natural detoxifying enzymes in the liver that help neutralize potentially carcinogenic (cancer-causing) agents.[1]

Many studies have found that diets high in cruciferous vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of lung, colorectal,[2] prostate and breast cancer.[3]

While genetic factors may affect metabolism of these beneficial compounds, several studies have found that three or more servings of cruciferous vegetables a week was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of lung cancer.[4] …read more of Powerful Compound in Broccoli shown to Fight Several Kinds of Cancer, Including Leukemia! here

Brussels Sprouts look like tightly wrapped little cabbage buds and are part of the cruciferae or mustard family, which includes broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. The cruciferae or cruciferous classification came about because of the four-part flower in the shape of a cross.

Cultivated in ancient Rome, modern Brussels sprouts were first grown in Belgium in the late 16th century near Brussels, hence the name “Brussels” sprouts.

While not really miniature cabbages, Brussels sprouts are a hardy crop and typically the last of the season to be harvested. They can endure deep frost and in fact, exposure to cold prompts the plant to convert starches to sugars and actually improves flavor.

There have been numerous scientific studies regarding the many health benefits associated with consuming Brussels sprouts, with the majority documenting the cancer preventive nature of specific antioxidants and phytochemicals.[1] …read more of The Secret to Absoluely Delicious Brussels Sprouts here

Nearly half of all solid waste in the U.S., 44 percent is consumer packaging.

It does not always have to be that way.  Smart choices that we make can go a long way toward reducing waste piling up in landfills. Packaging has increased dramatically over the last 50 years and now makes up the largest share of municipal solid waste (MSW).

Packaging, by its very nature is disposable.  Meant to be tossed away and the first or last thing we do when handing consumer goods.

Certainly, choosing products with less packaging and especially that which is recyclable or compostable can make an important impact.

But can we decrease waste pollution at the source? …read more of Reduce Package Waste at the Source, Save Money and Get Healthy here

Vinegar has had a long and venerable history. One of the very first medicines, Hippocrates treated patients with vinegar and it was used as a healing dressing on wounds and infectious sores in Biblical times.

Vinegar can be made from almost anything that contains sugar or starch. There are wine vinegars, white vinegar and fruit and grain vinegars, such as apple cider, raspberry, pomegranate and rice.

Including vinegar regularly in the diet can increase calcium absorption[1], help control blood sugar[2] assist in weight loss[3] [4]and allow the health conscious cook to reduce fat and sodium.

Researchers believe that the amino acids in vinegar are, to some degree responsible for its therapeutic effects. These amino acids help counteract the effects of lactic-acid buildup in the body that can cause irritability, fatigue and tender, aching muscles and can also be a factor in the onset of disease. …read more of Tasty, Healthful Rice Vinegar here

Garbanzo beans, AKA chickpeas or ceci beans are very low in fat and calories. A terrific source of fiber and protein, just two cups of this hearty legume would satisfy the daily requirement for protein.

Now,  research suggests that eating garbanzo beans can actually help to control your appetite![1] Scientists have found that the fiber benefits of garbanzo beans may go well beyond the benefits of fiber in other foods

In a recent study, participants in two groups were given 28 grams of fiber per day, however the source of the fiber for each group was very different. One group’s dietary fiber came primarily from garbanzo beans, while the second group obtained dietary fiber from entirely different sources.

The garbanzo bean group had better blood fat regulation, including lower levels of LDL-cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides. …read more of Garbanzo Beans Shown to Aid in Weight Loss! here