BLACK is the new GREEN! 6 Amazing BLACK Superfoods!

 
If you asked most people what color foods contain the most nutrients, vitamins and minerals, they will point you towards green foods.  However, there are a number of studies and proven facts about how BLACK foods are just as good and in many ways, even better than green foods.

Black is the new green!  How so?  New studies show that many black or dark pigmented foods contain more antioxidants than lighter colored foods.  The high pigment content also gives more nutrient density, packing in more useful and vital vitamins and minerals into each bite.  Therefore, many nutritionists and dieticians now proclaim that Black is the new Green.  Dark fruits, veggies, produce and grains are nutritional powerhouses.  The dark black color comes from anthocyanins.  These anthocyanins cause dark pigmentation in fresh produce and whole foods and they may help lower the risks of diabetes, heart disease and cancer.  Black superfoods also contain higher levels of fiber, protein, antioxidants and phytonutrients when compared to there counterparts.  As well, black superfoods are now more readily available in local grocery stores.

In additional studies, researchers are also trying to figure out if these anthocyanins from black plants and whole foods can help treat cancers, heart diseases and diabetes.  Black foods can now be found in many supermarkets but if you can’t find any, try natural food stores and small local grocers.  So what are the best black foods?  And how is Black the new Green when it comes to diet and nutrition?  Find out more about Black is the new Green below:

Black Tea

 
Let’s start off with one of our favourite black foods.  Although white and green teas get all the diet and nutrition hype as some of the best healthy drinks in the world, black tea has many perks as well.  The dark pigmentation of black teas gives the drink theaflavins.  According to the New Jersey Rugers University, theaflavins are special antioxidants found in black tea that help improve muscle recovery during and after intense workouts and exercise.  In addition, theaflavin antioxidants in black tea may also help in healing muscle soreness.  Another health benefit of black tea is that studies have shown that is may also lower your risk of heart disease and heart attacks.  Just add black tea!

Black Soybeans

 
Although yellow and green soybeans get all the attention (think edamame in Japanese cuisine), black soybeans are the real superfood when it comes to soy beans.  Although all soybean oils contain alpha linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid which reduces the risk of heart disease, black soybean oil seems to contain the highest levels of this health benefit.  As well, a recent study from Korean researchers show that black soybeans also reduce the risk of thrombosis, a type of blood clot that is in some cases, fatal.  Just add black soybeans!

Black Beans

 
Just like black soybeans, black beans also contain higher levels of nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids and other minerals that aid in regular body function and combatting disease.  The dark black beans are packed with bioflavonoids.  According to Cornell University, the high levels of bioflavonoids in black beans help protect us from all forms of cancer.  The potent plant base nutrients are exceptional.  Just add black beans.

Blackberries

 
Often overlooked due to the hype surrounding goji berries, blueberries and acai berry, blackberries are actually some of the most nutritional dense berries.  High in fiber which aids in digestion, one cup of blackberries contains more than 30% of your daily fiber requirements!  In addition, blackberries also contain polyphenols which help reduce cognitive decline and aid in brain/nervous function.  The polyphenols help clean up cells that impair daily brain function according to Boston’s Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging.  Just add blackberries!

Black Lentils

 
Many vegans and vegetarians eat black lentils because of their high iron content.  About one cup of black lentils gives you close to 40% of your daily recommended intake of iron for women, which is just incredible.  In addition, lentils, specifically black lentils or those with a darker pigmentation, will contain high levels of soluble and digestible fiber.  This will help lower your cholesterol, improve immune function and even reduce your chance of heart disease according a new study done at the University of Illinois.  Just add black lentils!

Black Rice

 
Most of us grew up eating white rice or brown rice.  Not many of us know that there is even black rice on the market.  Brown rice is better than white, but black is better than either of them.  That’s because the bran hull of black rice contains significantly higher amounts of Vitamin E.  As you know Vitamin E helps boost our immune system to combat diseases and it also protects our cells from free radical damage.  According to a recent study at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, black rice contains more anthocyanin antioxidants than blueberries!  Just add black rice!

The top 6 black superfoods explained in this article includes: black tea, black soybeans, black beans, blackberries, black lentils and black rice.

Just Add Kale! Kale Infographic describing the Top Health Benefits of Kale, Types of Kale, Nutritional Info, Interesting Facts and Kale Recipes!

 
The Just Add Good Stuff INFOGRAPHIC SERIES introduces our Kale Infographic. We LOVE Kale of all types! We hope you like it!

 

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Just Add Kale! Kale is one of the best superfoods & is a dark green leafy nutritional vegetable related to the cabbage. Kale is rich in vitamins, trace minerals, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Everywhere you turn, kale is a vital vegetable, rich in nutrients, health benefits and delicous flavor! Here is the Just Add Good Stuff Kale Infographic:

TOP 10 Health Benefits of Kale as described in the Just Add Good Stuff Kale Infographic:

1. kale is low in calories, zero fat and very high in fiber!
2. high in powerful antioxidants which prevent cancer
3. kale is rich in vitamin K for normal bone health & blood clotting
4. great anti-inflammatory agent with lots of omega-3’s
5. high in iron essential in oxygen transport and cell growth
6. kale is rich in vitamin A which aids in vision and skin health
7. great for cardiovascular support & lowers cholesterol
8. kale is high in calcium essential in preventing osteoporosis
9. rich in vitamin C which boosts immune & metabolic function
10. kale contains fiber and sulfur which detoxify your body

Kale Nutrition Facts as described on our Kale Infographic

• Serving Size = 1 cup chopped
• Calories = 34
• Calories from Fat = 4 g
• Total Fat = 0.47 g
• Cholesterol = 0 mg
• Sodium = 29 mg
• Potassium = 299 mg
• Total Carbohydrate = 6.71 g
• Dietary Fiber = 1.3 g
• Sugars = 0 g
• Protein = 2.21 g
• Vitamin A = 206% RDI
• Vitamin C = 134% RDI
• Calcium = 9% RDI
• Iron = 6% RDI

Healthy Kale Recipes on our Kale Infographic

1. Spicy Baked Kale Chips snack
2. Kale & Veggie Quinoa main dish
3. Kale, Spinach and Arugula salad mix

* All of our recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan! Click here for more recipes!

Things You May Not Know About Kale as described on our Kale Infographic

• Per calorie, kale has more calcium than any milk you can buy!
• Per calorie, kale also has 10x more Vitamin C when compare with spinach
• Also per calorie, kale has more iron than beef of any kind!
• Often referred to as a ‘nutritional powerhouse’
• 1 cup of kale has 10% of the RDA of omega-3 fatty acids!
• Kale is a winter veggie, although available year round
• Types include curly leaved, plain leaved, rape kale and Tuscan
• Comes in green & purple varieties – mix it up!
• Steaming enhances bile acid sequestrants which lower cholesterol

The Just Add Good Stuff Kale infographic (we also call it our Kale infograph) talks about general facts and nutritional details. For more info about the health benefits and nutritional information, please contact us and we will find out more from licensed dieticians and medical science professionals. It is our goal to provide the best information possible and to help inspire you to become more healthy through diet, nutrition and fitness. The Kale infographic will be updated whenever necessary, as studies and clinical research provides us with more insight into the health benefits of Kale which would affect our Top 10 Kale health benefits. In addition, we constantly experiment with uses of Kale in various dishes, so our recipes will also reflect that. Lastly, if we find any more interesting facts and figures about Kale in general, we will also update the ‘Did You Know?’ section of our Just Add Good Stuff Kale Infographic.

The information on this infographic is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended to nor should it be a substitute for advice, consultation or visits to your health care provider.
‘Nutrition Facts’ provided by FatSecret.com and verified by Just Add Good Stuff.

FLAX INFOGRAPHIC – Top Health Benefits of Flaxseed, Nutritional Details, Interesting Facts and Flax Seed Recipes!

 
The Just Add Good Stuff INFOGRAPHIC SERIES introduces our Flax Infographic. We LOVE Flaxseed! We hope you like it!

 

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Just Add Flax Seeds! Flax seeds are one of the most powerful plant foods in the world! Research has shown that a regular diet with flax seed can help reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke and even diabetes! Flax seeds also play an important role for the maintenance of cardiovascular health and normal development of the brain, eyes and nerves. Here is the Just Add Good Stuff Flax Infographic:

TOP 10 Health Benefits of Flax/Flaxseed as described in the Just Add Good Stuff Flax Seed Infographic:

1. flax is extremely high in soluble & insoluble fibers
2. maintains health of colon, digestive & gastrointestinal systems
3. flaxseed has protective effect against breast, prostate & colon cancer
4. rich in omega-3 fatty acids linked to good heart health
5. flax seeds improve blood sugar levels and prevents/treats diabetes
6. prevents inflammation caused by diseases & illnesses
7. flax reduces hot flashes in menopausal women
8. rich in anti-oxidants and detoxifies cells
9. flax seed is rich in essential oils that aid in healthy hair, eyes and skin
10. very rich in calcium and iron

Flax Nutrition Facts as described on our Flaxseed Infographic

• Serving Size = 1 cup
• Calories = 774
• Calories from Fat = 550 g
• Total Fat = 61.13 g
• Cholesterol = 0 mg
• Sodium = 44 mg
• Potassium = 1179 mg
• Total Carbohydrate = 41.88 g
• Dietary Fiber = 39.6 g
• Sugars = 2.25 g
• Protein = 26.52 g
• Vitamin A = 0% RDI
• Vitamin C = 2% RDI
• Calcium = 37% RDI
• Iron = 46% RDI

Healthy Flax Seed Recipes on our Flaxseed Infographic

1. Mixed Berry Flax Seed bread
2. Flax Seed and Water egg substitute
3. Almond Pulp Flaxseed crackers

* All of our recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan! Click here for more recipes!

Things You May Not Know About Flax as described on our Flax Infographic

• Comes WHOLE or GROUND (also called milled or flax meal)
• Flax Seed contains 75 to 800 times more lignans (cancer fighter) than other plant food in the world!
• Buy either BROWN or GOLDEN flax seed (equivalent nutrition)
• Always look for ORGANIC & LOCAL flax seeds
• Flax Seed can be used as a SUBSTITUTE for eggs and fat in baking!
• Keep GROUND seeds in freezer to prevent oxidation
• Precaution: shouldn’t be consumed while pregant or breast feeding
• Can be easily added into smoothies and juices
• Suggested amount is 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed a day

The Just Add Good Stuff Flax Seeds infographic (we also call it our flax infograph) talks about general facts and nutritional details. For more info about the health benefits and nutritional information, please contact us and we will find out more from licensed dieticians and medical science professionals. It is our goal to provide the best information possible and to help inspire you to become more healthy through diet, nutrition and fitness. The Flax Seeds infographic will be updated whenever necessary, as studies and clinical research provides us with more insight into the health benefits of Flax which would affect our Top 10 Flax health benefits. In addition, we constantly experiment with uses of flaxseed in various dishes, so our recipes will also reflect that. Lastly, if we find any more interesting facts and figures about flax in general, we will also update the ‘Did You Know?’ section of our Just Add Good Stuff Flax Infographic.

The information on this infographic is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended to nor should it be a substitute for advice, consultation or visits to your health care provider.
‘Nutrition Facts’ provided by FatSecret.com and verified by Just Add Good Stuff.

MANGO INFOGRAPHIC – Top Health Benefits of Mangoes, Nutritional Data, Interesting Facts and Mango Recipes!

 
The Just Add Good Stuff INFOGRAPHIC SERIES introduces our Mango Infographic. We LOVE manoges! We hope you like it!

 

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Just Add Mango! The mango is often referred to as ‘the king of the fruits’ because it is one of the most popular, nutritionally rich fruits with a unique and amazing flavor, fragrance, taste and health promoting qualities. Mangoes are very high in dietary fibers, vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants. Here is the Just Add Good Stuff Mango Infographic:

TOP 10 Health Benefits of Mangoes as described in the Just Add Good Stuff Mango Infographic:

1. mangoes are rich in pre-biotic dietary fiber which aids our digestion
2. very high in poly-phenolic flavonoid antioxidants
3. mango is high in potassium for heart health & lowers blood pressure
4. rich in copper for production of enzymes & red blood cells
5. mango protects against colon, breast, leukemia & prostate cancers
6. clears clogged pores and eliminates pimples
7. very rich in vitamin A which promotes good eyesight
8. mango alkalizes the entire body helping to maintain pH balance
9. good source of vitamin E which improves sex drive
10. mangoes are great remedy for sun stroke and heat stroke

Mango Nutrition Facts as described on our Mangoes Infographic

• Serving Size = 1 cup of sliced mango
• Calories = 107
• Calories from Fat = 4 g
• Total Fat = 0.45 g
• Cholesterol = 0 mg
• Sodium = 3 mg
• Potassium = 257 mg
• Total Carbohydrate = 28.05 g
• Dietary Fiber = 3 g
• Sugars = 24.42 g
• Protein = 0.84 g
• Vitamin A = 25% RDI
• Vitamin C = 76% RDI
• Calcium = 2% RDI
• Iron = 1% RDI

Healthy Mango Recipes on our Mango Infographic

1. Mango Cinnamon smoothie
2. Mango Coconut dessert balls
3. Mango Monster salsa

* All of our recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan! Click here for more recipes!

Things You May Not Know About Mangoes as described on our Mango Infographic

• Mangoes are native to South Asia & can fruit even after 300 years
• Mango leaves help normalize insulin levels in the blood, aiding in DIABETES prevention & treatment.
• Ripe, ORGANIC and fresh mangoes are the most NUTRITIOUS.
• Look for UNSULFURED ORGANIC dried mango.
• The peel is rich in phytonutrients, carotenoids and polyphenols
• Keep them at room temp in paper covers to ripen
• Unripe, raw, green mango are used in of pickles, jam & chutney
• National fruit of India, Pakistan and the Philippines
• Recent research has shown that mangoes are important in the fight against many types of cancers

The Just Add Good Stuff Mango infographic (we also call it our dark chocolate infograph) talks about general facts and nutritional details. For more info about the health benefits and nutritional information, please contact us and we will find out more from licensed dieticians and medical science professionals. It is our goal to provide the best information possible and to help inspire you to become more healthy through diet, nutrition and fitness. The Mango infographic will be updated whenever necessary, as studies and clinical research provides us with more insight into the health benefits of Mango which would affect our Top 10 Mango health benefits. In addition, we constantly experiment with uses of mangoes in various dishes, so our recipes will also reflect that. Lastly, if we find any more interesting facts and figures about Mango in general, we will also update the ‘Did You Know?’ section of our Just Add Good Stuff Mango Infographic.

The information on this infographic is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended to nor should it be a substitute for advice, consultation or visits to your health care provider.
‘Nutrition Facts’ provided by FatSecret.com and verified by Just Add Good Stuff.

I’M VEGAN… AND I’M GLUTEN-FREE!

 
It’s unbelievable how quickly time flies by. It’s now been close to 7 months since I went vegan and 4 months since I’ve gone gluten-free. I must admit that I am and feel healthier than ever and I’m so grateful for the incredible support from strangers, friends and family. It’s an experience that has changed my physical and mental health, diet, fitness and general well-being. Plus, it’s been a lot of FUN! This blog post is just an update on where I am in my quest for optimal health and well-being, some of the health benefits I’ve encountered, interesting things I’ve learned in the past six months and your most favourite Just Add Good Stuff Series posts. My May update on going vegan is located here.

My Vegan & Gluten-Free Experience > Revisiting the 10 Original Personal Benefits

 
In May, I updated my followers on 10 unexpected personal benefits since going vegan and I’m really happy to report that all of those things are getting even better.

1. I continue to sleep a lot better… sometimes up to 6-8 hours a night (compared with 1-2 hours before this year)
2. I’ve had only 1 migraine all year (and that was due to drinking too much the night before!)
3. Allergies to pollen, temperature and altitude change have gradually decreased.
4. My body weight has remained constant. The myths about the lack of plant based protein sources and complete amino acids in whole foods is really, just a myth.
5. My body fat content continues to drop. Still healthy though but seem more ripped.
6. I still haven’t had to take a nap in the afternoon. I don’t get the extreme tiredness at all nor the sugar spikes and troughs through the day.
7. My teeth are still white.
8. My digestion is consistent and healthy.
9. I’m more patient and a lot less anxious and it seems to be getting even better
10. My skin is still clear of acne and my hair is growing back. How’s that for a health benefit!

5 More Unexpected Health Benefits

 
In addition to the previous 10 unexpected personal benefits, I’ve also noticed a few more health benefits of note. They include:

1. I’m more focussed. I’ve always been efficient and focused when it comes to work and decision making, but since I’ve gone vegan, I find that I am less easily distracted and can focus for longer periods of time. Because of that, I’m more efficient and can get more work done within a shorter time frame.
2. I’m more positive and grateful for my health. Going both gluten-free and vegan has given me a more positive outlook on my health and well-being. By knowing that I’m doing everything possible to reduce my risk of disease and inflammation, I’m also focussing on being more positive throughout all facets of my life. This is a great mental health benefit.
3. My skin is smoother and healthier looking. I used to get really dry skin but since I’ve gone gluten free and vegan, it has a more natural hue and is more ‘radiant’. This is probably because I have a good balance of essential oils, minerals and vitamins in my diet that keeps my skin healthy and hydrated. Plus, I don’t even use any skin moisturizer.
4. My instances of bloating and cramps has diminished significantly. After decades of abusing my body through bad diet, I believe my body needed time to readjust and rid itself of all the toxins and build-up of bad cholesterol, fat and undigested or semi-digested food. After 5 months of veganism, I hardly get any bloating or stomach cramps. I believe my body has fully adjusted to this new whole foods plant based diet.
5. I feel as though I can conquer any challenge and face any adversity in my life now. The mental focus, discipline, constant action and commitment to health, diet and fitness has taught me a lot about what I am capable of doing and being. This has been one of the most important life lessons that I will never forget from my vegan experience.

My Vegan Experience > 5 Interesting Things I’ve Encountered and Learned Since Going Vegan

1. More people are asking me how long I’m staying vegan and gluten-free for. I don’t know if they are assuming that this is just a diet or fad… or something temporary. I just laugh because going vegan and gluten-free has been about a lifestyle change for me. It’s learning about nutrition and fitness and making sure that I do everything possible to live a healthy and prosperous life. The things I’ve learned will stay with me for life… so I often respond by saying: “This was a one year experiment, but the results and interest in veganism will stick with me for my entire life.” I should honestly respond by asking them: “So how long do you think you will continue killing yourself through an unhealthy diet. How long will you continue to eat processed or packaged foods? How long will you continue to eat fast food even when you know it’s unhealthy for you.” But I’m really not that mean…

 

2. My favourite SUPER FOODS now include the previous 10 as well as chaga, pomegranate, asparagus, turmeric, cumin, cilantro and parsley.

 

3. About 5 months into my vegan experience, I started ‘slowing down’. I became more lethargic and ‘slow’ in physical activities and focus. My dietician told me that I was probably deficient in Vitamin B-12 which is usually only found in meats and dairy products. So, I self diagnosed myself as being Vitamin B-12 deficient and started taking a Vitamin B supplement every morning. The difference was night and day. I will be publishing an article about Vitamin B-12 deficiencies and some common myth and misunderstandings about this very soon.

 

4. Just like my self-diagnosed deficiency in Vitamin B-12, I was probably also deficient in Vitamin D. Again, a vegan and gluten free diet doesn’t really bode well for adding these two essential vitamins into my body. Therefore, the most natural form of Vitamin D is through sunlight. I get out more often just to get 5-10 minutes of direct sunlight every day. It’s awesome.

 

5. My vegan and gluten-free diet actually does NOT cost any more than my previous unhealthy diet. I eat less but eat more nutritional food. So yes, by volume, I’m consuming more expensive foods, but I’m also eating and drinking a lot less. There are very few ‘empty calories’ in my diet now.

Great Response to our Just Add Good Stuff Series

When I first started Just Add Good Stuff, I wanted to present information in various ways that would touch people differently. From visual images to summarized nutritional info and from catchy/edgy quotes to helpful statistics, here are the highly successful Just Add Good Stuff Series that I’m so proud of:

• INFOGRAPHIC Series
• RECIPE Series
• QUOTE Series
• NOBODY ELSE CARES Series
• TIPS FOR A HEALTHY LIFE Series
• JUICE BOOST Series

The Excuses Pile On…

 
In the past 7 months, I’ve heard hundreds of excuses from strangers, friends and family as to why they’ve never tried eating healthier or going vegan or adopting a fitness/training program. Some of these excuses include:

I don’t have time / I’m too busy
I don’t believe in veganism / Veganism is stupid
There’s no difference between conventional and organic foods… it’s just marketing
I’ve survived this long, so why change
Other people who eat meat survive until they are 100, so why can’t I
Eating healthy means I don’t need to exercise
I have a family so it’s not possible
I’ve got a full time job so it’s not possible
Eating just greens and whole foods is unhealthy

 
For me, making an excuse is just an easy way out. Maybe it’s because I don’t want to change or I’m too lazy, but making excuses for myself is no longer something I do.

In every decision I make, I take a different perspective and ask myself:

“How do it do this?”
“How do I make this change?”
“How do I make time”

 
You should also try it sometime.
 
 

A Valuable Lesson …

 
One of the most important life lessons in this entire vegan/gluten-free experience has nothing to do with eating well, exercising or learning about nutrition. On the contrary, the most valuable life lessons are how this vegan/gluten-free experience has taught me about:

Discipline
Taking Action
Self-Awareness
Dealing with Change
Commitment

 
Mastering all 5 of these skills will help in EVERY FACET of my life … not just health and fitness. People who make excuses and oppose change will likely never learn how to master these 5 skills. Going vegan will teach you and push you to the limit when it comes to these life lessons. Try it and see how well you do…

HEALTH BENEFITS OF MINT > Nutritional Data, Interesting Facts & Recipes on our Just Add Mint Infographic!

The Just Add Good Stuff INFOGRAPHIC SERIES introduces our Mint Infographic. We hope you like it!

 

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Just Add Mint! Known from antiquity, mint is an aromatic herb with many curative properties. There’s a lot more to mint than fresheners, candy, tooth paste & inhalers! See below for more mint uses! Here is the Just Add Good Stuff Mint Infographic:

TOP 10 Health Benefits of Mint as described in the Just Add Good Stuff Mint Infographic:

1. effective pain reliever for headaches & migraines
2. mint alleviates gastrointestinal problems like indigestion
3. antiseptic & antibacterial properties used to treat cuts & burns
4. mint acts as a topical treatment of acne and acne scars
5. alleviates arthritis pain, insect sting irritation and eczema
6. mint improves bad breath and alleviates diarrhea and bloating
7. natural treatment of the common cold and flu
8. mint is used as a decongestant with antiviral properties
9. used in treatment of menstrual cramps
10. mint helps treat the hiccups

Mint Nutrition Facts as described on our Mint Infographic

• Serving Size = 2 tbps
• Calories = 2
• Calories from Fat = 0 g
• Total Fat = 0.03 g
• Cholesterol = 0 mg
• Sodium = 1 mg
• Potassium = 18 mg
• Total Carbohydrate = 0.48 g
• Dietary Fiber = 0.3 g
• Sugars = 0 g
• Protein = 0.12 g
• Vitamin A = 3% RDI
• Vitamin C = 2% RDI
• Calcium = 1% RDI
• Iron = 1% RDI

Healthy Mint Recipes on our Mint Infographic

1. Organic Mango Mint smoothie
2. Organic Mint Ice Cubes
3. Raw Cacao Mint cookies

* All of our recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan! Click here for more recipes!

Things You May Not Know About Mint as described on our Mint Infographic

• Mint gets its name from MENTHE, a Greek mythical character
• The mint herb is native to temperate areas of Europe, Asia & Africa
• Mint can be VERY INVASIVE, so grow in containers or buckets
• There are >30 TYPES & each smells/tastes different
• The US produces 70% of the world’s peppermint & spearmint
• Mint OIL is recovered by distilling using steam
• Mint has been found in Egyptian tombs from as far back as 1000 BC
• Rats & mice dislike the smell and taste of mint!
• Peppermint is the #1 selling flavor among non-chocolate hard candies

The Just Add Good Stuff Mint infographic (we also call it our dark chocolate infograph) talks about general facts and nutritional details. For more info about the health benefits and nutritional information, please contact us and we will find out more from licensed dieticians and medical science professionals. It is our goal to provide the best information possible and to help inspire you to become more healthy through diet, nutrition and fitness. The Mint infographic will be updated whenever necessary, as studies and clinical research provides us with more insight into the health benefits of Mint which would affect our Top 10 beets health benefits. In addition, we constantly experiment with uses of dark chocolate in various dishes, so our recipes will also reflect that. Lastly, if we find any more interesting facts and figures about beets in general, we will also update the ‘Did You Know?’ section of our Just Add Good Stuff Mint Infographic.

The information on this infographic is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended to nor should it be a substitute for advice, consultation or visits to your health care provider.
‘Nutrition Facts’ provided by FatSecret.com and verified by Just Add Good Stuff.

COCONUT WATER INFOGRAPHIC > Top 10 Benefits of Coconut Water along with Nutritional Data, Interesting Facts and Recipes!

The Just Add Good Stuff INFOGRAPHIC SERIES introduces our Coconut Water Infographic. We hope you like it!

 

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Just Add Coconut Water! Naturally refreshing, coconut water is the clear liquid inside a young coconut. Often called ‘Mother Nature’s sports drink’ coconut water is naturally fat and cholesterol free, low in calories and contains high levels of potassium and electrolytes. Here is the Just Add Good Stuff CacaoInfographic:

TOP 10 Health Benefits of Coconut Water as described in the Just Add Good Stuff Coconut Water Infographic:

1. contains easily digestible carbohydrates
2. coconut water is rich in electrolytes required for proper muscle contraction
3. high in potassium which is necessary for proper hydration
4. potassium also counteracts high sodium diets & hypertension
5. coconut water contains antioxidants which protect you from free radicals
6. source of calcium, iron and magnesium – low in sodium
7. coconut water has no known side effects and very few allergies
8. contains cytokinins which promote cell division & growth
9. coconut water fights free radicals against cancer, alzheimers & infection
10. keeps us fresh, active, fit & sharp

 
*please note that not all benefits have been clinically proven yet BUT coconut water is more nutritious & natural than any sports drink.
 

Coconut Water Nutrition Facts as described on our Coconut Water Infographic

• Serving Size = 1 cup
• Calories = 46
• Calories from Fat = 4
• Total Fat = 0.48 g
• Cholesterol = 0 mg
• Sodium = 252 mg
• Potassium = 600 mg
• Total Carbohydrate = 8.9 g
• Dietary Fiber = 2.6 g
• Sugars = 6.26 g
• Protein = 1.73 g
• Vitamin A = 0% RDI
• Vitamin C = 10% RDI
• Calcium = 6% RDI
• Iron = 4% RDI

Healthy Coconut Water Recipes on our Coconut Water Infographic

1. Fresh Organic Coconut water
2. Green Monster Superfood smoothie
3. Coconut Water Quinoa Veggie main dish

* All of our recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan! Click here for more recipes!

Things You May Not Know About Coconut Water as described on our Coconut Water Infographic

• Buy young, green organic coconuts for NATURAL unaltered nutrients
• Most PACKAGED coconut water has been pasteurized or are made from concentrate, which reduces nutrients
• WATCH OUT for coconut water that has added sugar – don’t buy!
• It’s NOT CALORIE FREE so don’t drink too much!
• Has LESS SUGAR than most sports drinks, sodas & fruit juices
• Is STERILE and has been used in place of medical saline
• Often called “Mother Nature’s sports drink” by marketers
• NOT very effective in weight loss diets
• Coconut water can be fermented to produce coconut vinegar

The Just Add Good Stuff Coconut Water infographic (we also call it our dark chocolate infograph) talks about general facts and nutritional details. For more info about the health benefits and nutritional information, please contact us and we will find out more from licensed dieticians and medical science professionals. It is our goal to provide the best information possible and to help inspire you to become more healthy through diet, nutrition and fitness. The Coconut Water infographic will be updated whenever necessary, as studies and clinical research provides us with more insight into the health benefits of coconut waterwhich would affect our Top 10 beets health benefits. In addition, we constantly experiment with uses of dark chocolate in various dishes, so our recipes will also reflect that. Lastly, if we find any more interesting facts and figures about beets in general, we will also update the ‘Did You Know?’ section of our Just Add Good Stuff Coconut Water Infographic.

The information on this infographic is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended to nor should it be a substitute for advice, consultation or visits to your health care provider.
‘Nutrition Facts’ provided by FatSecret.com and verified by Just Add Good Stuff.

Boost Your Juice! Check out these 5 new superfoods to add to your morning juice or smoothie…

 
Want to BOOST your morning smoothie or cold pressed juice with some new superfoods? Getting tired of the same flavors and ingredients in your juices? Here are 5 nutritious ingredients that will give your juice a boost! Click here for SET 3 JUICE BOOSTERS in addition to Click here for SET 2 JUICE BOOSTERS and SET 1 JUICE BOOST INGREDIENTS!

Top Smoothie Ingredient #16 > Just Add Flax Seeds

 
Flax seeds are a great super food that can be easily added to any juice or smoothie. Some experts name flax as one of the most potent and powerful plant foods on the planet. And there’s early signs that adding flax seeds to juices and smoothies can reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke and even diabetes. Some of the nutrients found in flax seeds include a high level of Omega-3 essential fatty acids, lignans/phytochemicals and fiber. This top smoothie ingredient booster will also help reduce constipation, inflammation, menopausal symptoms and fighting colds by boosting your immune system. Just add flax seeds into your smoothie or juice will also give you adequate levels of fiber and some protein and they are low in calories. Just add flax seeds today!

Juice Booster #17 > Just Add Goji Berries

 
Goji berries have been a major component of Chinese medicine for hundreds of years. This exotic deep red berry has become very popular over the past few years, and rightfully so, for it’s healthy load of antioxidants and nutritional value. Just add goji berries into your juice blend or morning smoothie to reap all the benefits of the goji berry. In a recent Swiss study, a 90 day goji berry supplementation plan increased antioxidant levels and offered elderly patients with an edge against muscular degeneration. Not only that, but a recent National Taiwan University conducted a study that found that by just adding goji berries to your diet can help protect diabetics from diabetes related eye deterioration. These findings are just two of many that have been done of this superberry. Just add goji berries into your morning smoothie or blend it into your juice. They are available either dried (preferable) or juiced and can be added to your drinks or eaten as a healthy snack. Organic goji berries will pack in the most amount of nutrients.

Juice Boost Ingredient #18 > Just Add Chic Peas

 
A staple of East Indian cuisine and popular in hummus dips, the chic pea is one of the most nutrient dense foods in the world. With a mild yet nutty flavor, you can just add chic peas to your morning smoothie as a juice boost. Chic peas contain a high level of phytoestrogens, which is the plant version of the natural body hormone oestrogen. So when you add chic peas as a juice boost ingredient into your morning smoothie, you can lower your risk of cancers (for women, especially breast cancer). In addition, chic peas have been found to reduce hot flashes. As a juice boost ingredient, chic peas also contain high levels of vitamins and minerals, fiber and protein.

Juice Booster #19 > Just Add Amaranth

 
A relative of the ultra superfoods quinoa and buckwheat, amaranth is also a nutritionally packed super food that goes well with different flavors and textures in your morning smoothie or juice. If you add amaranth as a juice booster, you will be adding tonnes of Vitamins (including vitamin A, B6, K, C, folate and riboflavin) into your diet in addition to a healthy level of magnesium, copper, iron, potassium and calcium. Just Add amaranth to your juice or smoothie because it contains lots of PROTEIN. In actual fact, amaranth contains 30 per cent more protein than traditional wheat flower, oats and rice. In addition, just add amaranth is completely GLUTEN-FREE. Some of the juice booster amaranth health benefits include cardiovascular support, treatment of hypertension, strengthening of your immune system and even preventing your hair from turning gray!

Top Smoothie Ingredient #20 > Just Add Asparagus

 
The asparagus is one of our top vegetables to add to a morning smoothie or cold pressed juice blend. High in folate, the Vitamin B that helps fight heart disease, in addition to fiber (over 4 grams per cup), asparagus has an awesome side-effect as well. Asparagus superfood is high in Vitamin E, which helps stimulate the production of testosterone in men. This serves as a natural aphrodisiac and is therefore, good for your sex life. In addition, one cup of asparagus added to your daily superfood smoothie or juice will add only 27 calories but lots of Vitamin K which helps prevent osteoporosis. Asparagus also has natural de-bloating health benefits, which will make your muscles look more defined for your summer beach body! Bright green asparagus is by far the healthiest type. Just stay away from the bleached white ones that carry little to no nutritional value. Remember that asparagus doesn’t stay fresh for very long, so wrap the ends with a paper towel and store in a cool place like the fridge. Just Add Asparagus!

Just Add Good Stuff recommends adding some or all of the above juice boost ingredients into your daily smoothie or juice. Please consult with a health professional to make sure you are not allergic to any of these juice boosters. The 5 juice boost ingredients recommended in this article are: flax seeds, goji berries, chic peas, amaranth and asparagus.

CACAO INFOGRAPHIC > Top 10 Cacao Health Benefits, Interesting Things about Raw Chocolate, Nutritional Data plus Cacao Recipes! Just Add Cacao!

The Just Add Good Stuff INFOGRAPHIC SERIES introduces our Cacao Infographic. We hope you like it!

 

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Just Add Cacao! Cacao is the raw, unprocessed form of the cacao bean that is further refined and processed to produce chocolate. Raw organic cacao is one of the healthiest superfoods in the world, offering a wealth of antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals Here is the Just Add Good Stuff CacaoInfographic:

TOP 10 Health Benefits of Cacao as described in the Just Add Good Stuff Cacao Infographic:

1. extremely high in anti-oxidants to combat free radicals
2. cacao promotes cardiovascular function/health & prevent strokes
3. lowers blood pressure and improves body circulation
4. raw cacao is rich in ‘bliss chemicals’ enhancing physical & mental well-being
5. improves digestion through production of digestive enzymes
6. dark chocolate increases insulin sensitivity & is relatively safe for diabetics
7. acts as a mild diuretic, pushing toxins out of your body
8. raw cacao is used as a natural cough suppressant
9. increases blood circulation that improves focus & mood
10. dark chocolate may be the best anti-aging superfood in the world

Cacao Nutrition Facts as described on our Cacao Infographic

• Serving Size = 2 tbsp
• Calories = 120
• Calories from Fat = 40
• Total Fat = 4 g
• Cholesterol = 0 mg
• Sodium = 6 mg
• Potassium = 0 mg
• Total Carbohydrate = 15 g
• Dietary Fiber = 9 g
• Sugars = 0 g
• Protein = 6 g
• Vitamin A = 0% RDI
• Vitamin C = 0% RDI
• Calcium = 5% RDI
• Iron = 22% RDI

Healthy Cacao Recipes on our Cacao Infographic

1. Raw Cacao Ginger dessert balls
2. The Ultimate Superfood smoothie
3. Raw Cacao Almond brownies

* All of our recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan! Click here for more recipes!

Things You May Not Know About Cacao as described on our Cacao Infographic

• Only buy RAW ORGANIC cacao powder or nibs… but skip PROCESSED chocolate in any form if possible.
• Use CACAO to describe the seeds, pods & nibs; Use COCOA to describe processed/sweetened cacao
• The DARKER / LESS TREATED chocolate, the more nutritious it is
• Raw organic cacao also comes in butter and pastes
• Per serving, has the HIGHEST concentrations of antioxidant levels!
• Addictive & harmful unless consumed in moderation!
• OLDEST HUMAN lived to 122. She ate 2.5 lbs of cacao a week!
• Greek name means “cacao, the food of the gods”
• Raw cacao contains over 300 vital antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. That’s why cacao is often referred to as a ‘superfood’

The Just Add Good Stuff raw cacao infographic (we also call it our dark chocolate infograph) talks about general facts and nutritional details. For more info about the health benefits and nutritional information, please contact us and we will find out more from licensed dieticians and medical science professionals. It is our goal to provide the best information possible and to help inspire you to become more healthy through diet, nutrition and fitness. The cacao infographic will be updated whenever necessary, as studies and clinical research provides us with more insight into the health benefits of cacao which would affect our Top 10 beets health benefits. In addition, we constantly experiment with uses of dark chocolate in various dishes, so our recipes will also reflect that. Lastly, if we find any more interesting facts and figures about beets in general, we will also update the ‘Did You Know?’ section of our Just Add Good Stuff Cacao Infographic.

The information on this infographic is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended to nor should it be a substitute for advice, consultation or visits to your health care provider.
‘Nutrition Facts’ provided by FatSecret.com and verified by Just Add Good Stuff.

Want to ELEVATE your smoothie? Try Adding These 5 Nutritious Juice Booster Ingredients…

 
Want to ELEVATE your morning smoothie or cold pressed juice?  Getting sick and tired of the same textures, flavors or ingredients in your juices? Here are 5 nutritious ingredients that will give your juice a boost! Click here for SET 2 JUICE BOOSTERS and SET 1 JUICE BOOST INGREDIENTS!

Top Juice Booster #11 > Just Add Acai Berry

 
Yes, Just Add Good Stuff is recommending the berry that nobody can pronounce.  Just add acai berries into your smoothie or cold pressed juice blend because they are amazing super berries!  Acai berries are indigenous berries commonly found in the Amazon rain forests.  They are anti-oxidant rich fruits that have been heralded for hundreds of years as an immune stimulating, healing and energy boosting super berry.  As one of our top juice boosters acai berries are easy to find at your local market.  Or you can also opt for powdered acai berry powder but just make sure that it only contains these super berries, no added sugar as comes from an organic source and has never been heated.  Acai berries are amazing for your heart and lowers cholesterol in your blood stream.  In addition, just adding acai berries will boost your immune system and aids in weight loss programs.  The top juice booster also promotes skin health and helps with a an upset stomach, bloating or gas.  Just adding acai berries will also improve your cellular health (high in anthocyanins) and may help fight or even prevent cancer.  Acai berries also contain properties that support normal inflammation that may prevent inflammations due to allergic reactions.  The high levels of phytochemicals also contribute to the ability to slow or reverse typical processes related to aging and cellular oxidative damage, creating anti-aging effects.  The top juice booster also gives you an energy boost, which is great before workouts or physical activity.  Just add acai berries starting today!

Smoothie Boost Ingredient #12 > Just Add Turmeric

 
Turmeric is one of the new super foods and there are many reasons for this!  Turmeric is a rhizomatous perennial plant that belongs to the ginger family and its native to tropical South Asia.  Turmeric is being thrust into the super foods limelight as there are many health benefits by just adding small amounts of turmeric into your daily diet.  As a smoothie boost ingredient, turmeric super food is one of the best boosters in terms of natural health benefits.  Just add turmeric into your smoothie or juice blend will give you the following health benefits: natural anti-inflammatory agent, natural antibiotic, natural antiseptic, natural analgesic plus turmeric speeds up wound healing and improves digestion.  Other turmeric super food health benefits include: prevention of bloating and gas build-up, lowers cholesterol, heals stomach ulcers, strengthens ligaments, improves asthma, prevents progression of Alzheimer’s, aids in fat metabolism and weight management and reduces the side effects of chemotherapy.  Other amazing health benefits of turmeric as a smoothie booster ingredient includes prevention of many types of cancers including breast, prostate, skin, colon, lymphoma, leukemia as well as improving skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and it also slows the progression of MS.  As you can see, just add turmeric today!

Top Juice Booster #13 > Just Add Sunflower Seeds

 
Often overlooked, seeds are a perfect addition to any juice or smoothie.  These health promoting seeds will give you a firmer texture and a nuttier flavor.   Sunflower seeds as a top juice booster may be new to you, but contain very high levels of Vitamin E, B1, manganese, copper, tryptophan, magnesium, selenium, Vitamin B6, phosphorous, folate and are low in calories.  Not only that, but just by adding sunflower seeds as a top juice booster ingredient also comes with several health benefits.  Firstly, sunflower seeds are an excellent source of Vitamin E which is a fat soluble antioxidant.  This aids in our cardiovascular system and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent as well.  The sunflower seeds health benefits continues with the phytosterols which help lower cholesterol levels.  Another great sunflower seeds health benefit includes its high levels of magnesium which help to calm our muscles and nerves and counterbalances calcium, thus helping regulate our blood vessels.  As well, the top juice booster in adding a tablespoon or two of sunflower seeds to your morning smoothie includes its high levels of selenium that aid in detoxification and cancer prevention.  The best way to just add sunflower seeds into your juice blend or morning smoothie is to add shelled sunflower seeds that are organic, raw and unsalted.

Juice Boost Ingredient #15 > Just Add Papaya / Papaw 

 
In North America, you may call them papayas but in Australia and South Asia, you may refer to them as papaw.  Other people may call them tree melons… but in the end, papaya, papaw or tree melon are a super fruit!  Cultivated worldwide in the tropics and subtropics, over 7 million tons are now produced globally every year.  Due to the high levels of vitamins and minerals, just adding papaya or papaw into your morning juice blend or smoothie will give you lots of natural health benefits.  This wonder fruit is especially great for digestion and treating digestive problems.  In addition, certain enzymes like papain make papaya or papaw truly unique when it comes to super fruits.  Papaya is also very beneficial for your cardiovascular system.  Rich in provitamin A carotenoids, Vitamin C, folate and dietary fiber, papaw or papaya also contains lots of Vitamin B in the form of folic acid, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B1 and riboflavin.  The skin, pulp and seeds of the juice booster ingredient papaya or papaw is also nutritious with high levels of phytochemicals including polyphenols and lycopene.  Pectin in papaya is also amazing.  Just add papaya into your smoothies and you’ll also be able to treat arthritis, osteoporosis or any other pain as papaws are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and promotes faster healing.  Also, papaya is used for treating colds throughout the world.  Just add papaya!

Top Juice Booster #15 > Just Add Broccoli

 
Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables in the world and it adds to both the flavor and texture of your cold pressed juice or morning smoothie.  With high levels of minerals, fiber, vitamins and even protein, broccoli is a welcome addition in order to elevate the nutritional value of your smoothies.  Containing powerful antioxidants, there are ongoing studies of how broccoli consumption can prevent and fight cancers.  In addition, your immune system is boosted considerably by just adding broccoli because of its richness in beta carotene, zinc and selenium.  Broccoli is also high in Vitamin C which is an anti-inflammatory and it also contains high levels of magnesium and potassium that help regulate your blood pressure.  Broccoli as a juice booster also helps fight heart disease and prevents strokes and atherosclerosis.  Vitamin K and calcium in broccoli also promote healthy bones and the folic acid prevents birth defects.  Just adding broccoli will create a great nutritional shake before a workout as well.  This top juice booster will add tonnes of protein (as much as corn or rice) but half the calories.  Just Add Broccoli today!

Just Add Good Stuff recommends adding some or all of the above juice boost ingredients into your daily smoothie or juice. Please consult with a health professional to make sure you are not allergic to any of these juice boosters. The 5 juice boost ingredients recommended in this article are: acai berry, turmeric, sunflower seeds, papaya/papaw and broccoli.