PantryPic #362: Manuka Honey

-Manuka Honey.  -Should be unpasturized and have “UMF” quality trademark label. -Can be worth the extra cost: Compared to other types of honey, Manuka honey has been shown to be more potent and health-boosting because of its higher methylglyoxal (MG) concentration. -Produced by bees that tended to flowers of the Manuka plant (also known as … Read more

PantryPic #335: Goji Berries

-Goji Berries (aka Wolf Berries). -Look for Raw, Organic, most moist and the brightest red color available. -Incredible superfood that offers an array of anti-aging benefits. -Indigenous to an area of China where there are the most centenarians (people who live to over 100 yrs old). -An adaptogen that helps your body adapt to stress … Read more

PantryPic #665: Black Seeds

-Organic Black Seeds (Nigella Seeds). -Also known as Nigella Sativa, Roman Coriander, Black Cumin, Black Caraway, or Onion Seed. -The aroma and taste should be very pungent. (somewhat of an oregano & pepper taste) -In Islamic literature, it is considered as one of the greatest forms of healing medicine. -Proven benefits for treatment of Cancer, … Read more

PantryPic #104: Hemp Seeds

-Organic Raw Shelled Hemp Seeds (a.k.a Hemp Hearts). -Technically not a seed, but a nut (hense their slight ‘nutty’ flavor). -Loaded with healthy fats in a great Omega-6:Omega-3 ratio of 2:1! -Good source of protein and loaded with nutrients including vitamin E, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron, and zinc. -Great for heart health, skin … Read more

PantryPic #044: Pistachios

-Organic Pistachios. -High in potassium, magnesium, vitamin K, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. -Can help lower blood pressure and high LDL levels. -Packed with antioxidants (the unique green and purple kernel color is a result of its lutein and anthocyanin content). -Shells are naturally a light beige color (California Pistachios are not bleached). -Pistachios from Iran … Read more

PantryPic #043: Macadamia Nuts

-Macadamia Nuts. -Ideally Raw & Organic when possible. -Highest in healthy fats, and lowest protein and carb content of all nuts. (a key component of a Ketogenic diet) -Loaded with thiamine (vitamin B1), magnesium, and manganese. -Have been shown to optimize Cholesterol & Triglyceride levels. -Have the best Omega 3:6 ratio of 1:1 (to help avoid inflammation) … Read more

PantryPic #042: Pecans

-Look for Raw & Organic Pecans. -High in healthy fat, without excessive protein (key component of a Ketogenic diet). -Packed with over 19 vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and manganese. -Anti-inflammatory components proven to lower LDL levels and promote healthy arterial function. -One of the highest antioxidant foods. -Can be Soaked for enhanced nutrient … Read more

PantryPic #103: Sunflower Seeds

-Organic Sunflower Seeds. -Look for Raw, Unsalted, and Shelled (Kernels). -You can add your own Pink Himalayan Salt if needed. -Consider Soaking if have issues digesting. -Ideal Raw, but can be Dehydrated or Roasted at lowest oven temperature. -Learn more about the benefits of Sunflower Seeds in my video recipe for Sunflower Seed Butter!  -An … Read more

PantryPic #290: Blueberries

-Organic Blueberries. -A healthier fruit option since berries elicit a smaller insulin spike than most fruits. -Incredible anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and heart-healthy properties (one of the antioxidants, resveratrol, is what gives wine and dark chocolate its ‘health’ properties). -Blueberries contain flavonoids (a group of phytonutrients) that can boost brain function, lower risk of Alzheimer’s, decrease risk … Read more

PantryPic #163: Brussels Sprouts

-Brussels Sprouts. -Sprouts pieces should be tightly packed, uniform in color, without dark spots or wilting. -Loaded with Vitamin C to boost your immune system and Vitamin K to help protect your bones. -The glucosinolates help the body to detoxify, helping to avoid cancer and other diseases. – An excellent anti-inflammatory vegetable related to cabbage, … Read more