PantryPic #965: Black Seed Oil

-Black Seed Oil. -Also known as Nigella Sativa, Roman Coriander, Black Cumin, Black Caraway, or Onion Seed. -MUST list botanical name: ‘Nigella Sativa’ on the label. -Purchase from a reputable source, ideally buying Organic Egyptian Black Seed Oil (most available unfortunately comes from India). -Black Seed Oil should always be cold pressed and kept in … Read more

PantryPic #153: Spinach

-Organic Spinach. (seek Organic since it’s a top offender on the Dirty Dozen). -Ideally, purchase fresh Spinach (that is vibrant deep green color and not wilted), but it can also be found frozen or canned. -Anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, anti-cancer, and more! -Several flavonoids in Spinach act as antioxidants to keep cholesterol from oxidizing and protect your … Read more

PantryPic #616: Ginger

-Ginger (Root or Ground). -Ginger Root is best for both flavor and nutrition, but Organic Ground Ginger is a great alternative (and can last up to 1 year if refrigerated). -Ginger Root should be firm, smooth, and mold-free (can store up to 6 months in freezer). -Potent anti-inflammatory that helps reduce pain, settles digestion, boosts … Read more

PantryPic #834: Bone Broth

-Organic Bone Broth. -Must say ‘Bone Broth’, not ‘Chicken Broth’, ‘Chicken Stock’, etc. -Made from slowly simmering bones for up to 24-72hrs. -Longer simmering times result in a more complete release of collagen, minerals, and nutrients from the bones. -Incredible for gut health and restoring overall health. -Curative properties include helping leaky gut, autoimmune conditions, … Read more

PantryPic #927: Probiotic

-Probiotic Supplement. -Helpful when looking to rebalance your gut flora to improve your health. -High quality probiotic supplements generally must be sold and stored refrigerated (However, one of the many benefits of Mercola’s Probiotic is that it is stable at room temperature so it does not need refrigeration). -Different strains of probiotic cultures are believed … Read more

PantryPic #386: Brown Rice

-Organic Brown Rice. -Healthier option than White Rice considering a higher fiber content, more minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals. -Also, Brown Rice does not generate as large a spike in blood sugar levels. -When possible, choose Brown Rice from California, India, or Pakistan (due to less inorganic arsenic content). -Wild Rice and Black Rice may offer … Read more

PantryPic #926: Vitamin D3

-Only supplement with Vitamin D3 (NOT D2). -Technically Vitamin D is a steroid hormone, not a Vitamin. -We receive beneficial UVB rays to synthesize Vitamin D (20-30mins sun exposure on bare skin should be sufficient). -In NJ, the ideal window is from 10am-2pm from April-Sept (so supplementation is likely needed in the fall/winter months). -Important to have bloodwork … Read more

PantryPic #925: Krill Oil

-Krill Oil is far superior to Fish Oil. -Bound to phospholipids so it can cross the cell-membrane for optimal utilization. -Contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant. -Helps to reach Omega-3 EPA/DHA needs from animal-based sources (as opposed to Omega-3 ALA from plant-based sources). -A high-quality Krill Oil should not leave a ‘fishy’ aftertaste. -Should be certified … Read more

PantryPic #617: Turmeric

-Organic Turmeric. -Can also purchase fresh Turmeric Root (firm, and looks like ginger). -Its benefits outweigh conventional medicine for anti-inflammatory, cholesterol, diabetes, arthritis, skin health, and more! -Active ingredient of Curcumin has strong healing and anti-cancer benefits. -Turmeric Root or Powder is best, but also available in pill form (seek out CO2 extracted form of … Read more

PantryPic #162: Broccoli

-Organic Broccoli. – A member of the cruciferous family (related to Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, and Kale). -Has 2x the Vitamin C of an orange and it’s Calcium is much more bioavailable than milk’s. -Contains phytochemical sulforaphane to help detox from food and air carcinogens.  -Ideal to use Fresh Broccoli and lightly steam for 3-4mins … Read more