During the summer, I attended a Food For Your Whole Life seminar in NYC with my BFF Diane who is a registered dietician. In addition to learning valuable information about health and nutrition from Drs. Oz and Roizen, I discovered some vital benefits of Wild Blueberries and Walnuts.
Wild Blueberries have a positive effect on neurological health as well as providing anti-inflammatory and cancer prevention benefits. While I understood their purpose at the seminar was to promote the industry, I thought the frozen blueberries they handed out were extremely tasty and satisfying. They can be used as a topping on cereals or as an ingredient in smoothies, pancakes, salads and desserts. The fact that they can be used frozen prevents the likeliness of the fruits growing moldy if purchased fresh.
As an added benefit, an interesting study detected the benefits of Wild Blueberries regarding DNA damage. Study: Wild Blueberries May Protect DNA from Damage.
I used to think almonds were the #1 nut for delivering a healthy dose of important antioxidants. However, walnuts it appears, contain twice as much omega-3 as almonds. Omega-3 fats are not produced by the body yet are an important factor in heart health. Women especially, who are known to be at greater risk for heart disease than once believed, should consider adding Omega-3’s to their diet. Walnuts are generally not consumed as much as almonds or pecans but would be an excellent addition to any meal. Further study led me to consider adding a healthy dose of walnuts, rather than supplements, to my daily diet. For those with nut allergies, of course, appropriate alternatives are available.
Research Study Ranks Antioxidant Value of Nuts: Walnuts Top List
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/questions/omega-3/index.html
Check out the best of both worlds…Wild Blueberry Walnut Bran Muffins!
Fun and Fitness at Fifty 