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!

 

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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.

The Story About Our Toxic Food System > Farm to Fork Infographic

 
The conventional food system today is heavily dependent on synthetic/toxic chemicals and additives that negatively impact our health and well-being. It is no surprise to any of us that the process of producing food by food producers and manufacturers is about their bottom line and NOT the health of the consumer. Read about our scary and toxic food system in this incredible Healthy Child Healthy World farm to fork infographic, which is one of the best we have ever seen.
 
Today, our food manufacturers add over 6,000 toxic additives and chemicals into our conventional food system. Many of these chemicals and additives are used to preserve our food in addition to flavouring, coloring, texture and improving yield for cheap food. What is scary about our toxic food system is that many of us don’t even know what happens between the farm and our table, which is what this Farm to Fork Infographic tries to inform you about. Do you know where your food comes from? Or what is in our toxic food system? You may be quite surprised! Today’s conventional toxic food system depends on the use of unhealthy and synthetic chemicals that pose direct threats to our health, especially in our children and the elderly. For children, their developing bodies are more vulnerable to these toxins, but from the higher level, the toxic chemicals negatively impact everyone’s health and life. Here are a small but shocking snapshot of the food system.
 

At the Farm > It’s NOT Local, It’s Called Business

 
Today, 80% (eighty per cent) of all food in the United States is supplied by massive factory farms, associated with a myriad of both environmental and health risks. Do you know what our animals are being fed at the farm? According to the latest Union of Concerned Scientists study, animals at these business factories are fed the following: same species meats, manure and other animal waste, diseased animals, feathers, hair, skin, hooves, blood, drugs and chemicals in addition to plastic! In our toxic food system in the United States, nearly 900 million pounds of toxic pesticides are applied to farms each year. Since the 1990’s, millions of tons of potentially harmful and toxic sewage sludge have been applied to the US farmland as food crop fertilizer. Yum. In addition, an estimated 13.5 million pounds of antibiotics – the same classes of antibiotics used in our own medicine and health care system – are routinely added to animal feed or water.

Chemicals Rule at the Factory Too

 
Here are some of the chemicals and toxic chemical treatments that are applied in our food supply chain at the factory before they even get to the market. To become white flour, wheat flour undergoes bleaching with chemicals such as oxide of nitrogen, chlorine, chloride and nitrosyl. Whole soybeans are drenched in hexane, a byproduct of the gasoline refining industry, to separate the soybean oil from protein that is used in various processed and unhealthy foods. Chemicals used to make plastic packaging, like phthalates and BPA sometimes migrate and seap into our food supply system. The Food and Drug Administration considers these migrants ‘indirect food additives’. No kidding! But remember, they do NOTHING about it and don’t regulate it! Nearly 6,000 additives and toxic chemicals are used by food companies to process and produce our food. To produce orange juice, whole oranges are placed in processing machines and are sprayed with various acids to improve fruit peel quality and increase juice yield. As well, more than 70% of all processed foods include genetically modified ingredients or GMOs.

Stick a Fork in It at the Table > The Consumer

 
Over 70% of all calories consumed by the average American comes from highly processed foods! And this is increasing at an alarming rate. The average American child also consumes more than 5 servings of pesticides every day just from their food and water. The average child in the US consumes 150 mg of artificial food coloring every day, an increase of five times since the 1950s.

What are US Children Eating? Take a look at the health risks associated with a child’s favorite foods.

Cereal = linked to cancer, ADHD, neurological toxicity and obesity
Banana = linked to cancer and reproductive toxicity
Cheese Burger = cancer, hormone disruption and neurodevelopmental deficits
Milk = cancer, neurodevelopmental deficits, hormone disruption and developmental toxicity
Crackers = cancer
French Fries = cancer
Soda = cancer, hormone disruption, obesity and reproductive/behavioural problems
Chips = cancer
Macaroni and Cheese = reproductive toxicity, obesity, neurological toxicity and immune system impacts
Cookies = cancer, reproductive toxicity, obesity, neurological toxicity and immune system impacts

 
Luckily there are many simple, affordable actions you can take to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals found in foods. For more in depth advice and statistics, we recommend the eBook “Easy Steps to Eating Healthy & Safe Foods” at www.healthychild.org.

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.

Hidden Sugar in Our Diet

Men between the ages of 20 to 39 eat more added sugars than anyone else according the new US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The added sugars are mostly found in processed and pre packaged foods. A lot of sugar actually comes from so-called ‘health foods’ such as jams, sauces and salad dressings and in many instances, most of us don’t even know that they contain sugar and are unhealthy for us. The hidden sugar in our diet is causing many health problems that include higher blood glucose levels, diabetes, stress, sleep disorders, weight gain, ADS and mood swings.

On average, the typical US male between 20 to 39 eats 335 calories of unhealthy sugars a day, while women consume less at 239 calories per day. What the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found were 2 things that debunked typical myths about sugar consumption in the nation.

Myth #1 | Two thirds of added sugar came from food (and not drinks)
Myth #2 | Most of the added sugar was eaten/consumed at home (and not on-the-go)

Here are the top 9 sneaky sources of hidden sugar in our diet. Remember that most of these hidden sugars have suitable alternatives that are healthier and sometimes much cheaper and tastier. The first step for all of us is the recognize these unhealthy hidden sugars in our diet that include:

Hidden Sugar #1 = Bottled Tea and Ice Tea

 
Much of the hidden sugar in bottled teas is high fructose corn syrup and cheap sweeteners, which has been linked to cancers and various health diseases. A can of Arizona’s Green Tea has more sugar than a Snicker’s chocolate bar! The same goes for many other bottled tea manufacturers that just pack on the hidden sugars which make these drinks addictive and sweet.

Sneaky Source of Sugar #2 = Frozen Dinners

 
Although they taste alright and will fill our stomachs for a period of time, frozen dinners, including the ‘lean and healthy’ ones contain unhealthy doses of hidden sugars. In order to replace fat and carbs, low calorie and lean frozen dinners actually pack on the hidden sugars and salts that are very bad for us. The Lean Cuisine’s Roasted Turkey Breast entre frozen dinner contains 7 teaspoons of actual sugar! Ouch.

Hidden Sugar #3 = Yogurt

This one will surprise a lot of us as yogurt seems to be a healthy breakfast or snack. Low in calories and high in protein, yogurt is often used as a great work out snack food. However, many of the fruit flavoured yogurts are pumped full of sneaky sources of hidden sugars. Even Yoplait’s Original 99% Fat Free line has more sugar than 1 pack of peanut M&Ms. Always go for plain organic yogurt with the least amount of sugars. Read the labels!

Sneaky Source of Sugar #4 = Wheat Bread

 
“Wheat” does not equal “whole grains”. Although whole grains are great for heart health, weight loss diets and to keep you full, products that are labeled as “wheat” are not always true whole grains. Both grocery stores and restaurants will serve whole wheat breads that do not contain whole grains. On the contrary, many of these wheat breads are full of hidden sugar and enriched flours, making them taste like whole grains, but are unhealthy. This sneaky source of sugar can be seen at Arby’s Honey Wheat Market Fresh sandwich breads. It’s not whole wheat as the first ingredient for this bread is enriched flour and secondly, two slices contains 15 grams of hidden sugar. That’s a lot of sugar!

Hidden Sugar #5 = Oatmeal

 
Natural oats that are unflavoured and unaltered are very healthy. Consuming oatmeal has been linked to cancer fighting/prevention, weight loss and a healthy heart. However, many processed and packaged oats and oatmeal contain lots of artificial ingredients including hidden sugar that just sneaks up on you. Take for instance the Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Express by Quaker. This one little snack has as much sugar as 2 Pillsbury cinnamon rolls (which in itself, isn’t that healthy either because of the artificial preservatives, flavors and hidden amounts of sugar). A great tip to sweeten your oatmeal is to simply add antioxidant rich, naturally sweet berries.

Sneaky Source of Sugar #6 = Spaghetti Sauce

Many consumers are also surprised that spaghetti sauce is ranked in the list of foods containing the most sneak sources of hidden sugar. Processed and packaged spaghetti sauces often contain high levels of hidden sugar even though tomatoes are naturally sweet. This is often because the sauce is made from unripe tomatoes or parts/discards of tomatoes that are used in other packaged foods. Spaghetti sauces are also made from cheap vegetable oil, subpar ingredients and dehydrated veggies so hidden sugar is a quick and effective fix for food processors to disguise this. Francesco Rinaldi spaghetti sauce (like many others) lists sugar as the second ingredient in their spaghetti sauce which is about 3 teaspoons in each serving. A healthier alternative is to make your own spaghetti sauce from your own organic tomatoes and spices or to choose even Ragu’s Tomato Basil spaghetti sauce which doesn’t contain extra hidden sugar.

Hidden Sugar #7 = Salad Dressing

Many packaged salad dressings contain high levels of refined sugars in order to come up with the flavors, preservatives and texture of their sauces. From blue cheese to ranch, all of these salad dressings make your healthy salad unhealthy. Not only that, but the ‘low-fat’ salad dressings are evil too as they take out the fat and instead, add sugar in its place. The Sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette by Ken’s contains more sugar than a regular scoop of ice cream! Not only that, but it also has lots of food starch. So eating this salad dressing will give you 12 grams of hidden sugars plus starch which causes your blood sugar levels to spike. No good!

Sneaky Source of Sugar #8 = Fruit Jams and Spreads

 
Many people think that jams and jellies are a better alternative to butter or cream cheese. However, the hidden sugars in these types of foods is shocking. As an example, Smucker’s uses 3 different types of sweeteners and hidden sugars in their classic Strawberry jam! The main reason why they do this is that none of the ‘sugars’ will appear as the first ingredient on their label. The fruit becomes the #1 ingredient as there is more fruit than any of the 3 hidden sugars alone. That’s just sneaky, but it’s used by many food processors. The alternative is the Polaner’s All Fruit spreads because is unadulterated and contains no added hidden sugars. Or you can make your own spreads!

Hidden Sugar #9 = Asian Sauces

 
From sweet and sour pork to teriyaki to sesame, these Asian sauces in North America are packed with hidden sugar. Some of these sauces also contain unhealthy amounts of both corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup (you can tell by the ingredients that end in “-ose”). Also remember to check the serving size, because most of the Asian sauce labels recommend less than 1 tablespoon per serving, which as we know is not nearly enough for any small portion.

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.

BEETS INFOGRAPHIC > Just Add Beets/Beetroot… Top 10 Health Benefits, Nutritional Details and Interesting Facts about Beetroot and Beets!

The Just Add Good Stuff INFOGRAPHIC SERIES introduces our Beet Infographic/Beetroot Infogram. We hope you like it!

 

PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Just Add Beets! Beets (or beetroot) are highly nutritious root vegetables. The unique set of pigment antioxidants in the ‘root’ in addition to the top nutrient rich ‘greens’ make beets highly effective in the protection against many diseases. Here is the Just Add Good Stuff Beets Infographic:

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

1. beets are a great source of energy with good sugars, low calories and fat
2. beetroot cleanses our body, purifies blood & maintains liver function
3. rich in glycine betaine which protects against heart disease
4. beets contain sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron & phosphorus
5. raw beets are high in folic acid for production of new cells
6. beetroot is rich in betaine, boosting mental health & treats depression
7. contain antioxidants that fight against many types of cancer
8. beets are high in trytophan which treats stress & relaxes the mind
9. beetroot is rich in boron which kick-starts production of sex hormones
10. the top beet greens are high in vitamin A and C

Beet Nutrition Facts as described on our Beet Root Infographic

• Serving Size = 1 cup
• Calories = 58
• Calories from Fat = 2
• Total Fat = 0.23 g
• Cholesterol = 0 mg
• Sodium = 106 mg
• Potassium = 442 mg
• Total Carbohydrate = 13 g
• Dietary Fiber = 3.8 g
• Sugars = 9.19 g
• Protein = 2.19 g
• Vitamin A = 1% RDI
• Vitamin C = 11% RDI
• Calcium = 2% RDI
• Iron = 6% RDI

Healthy Beet Recipes on our Beetroot Infographic

1. Spicy Baked Beet chips
2. Fresh Organic Beetroot cold pressed juice
3. Beet and Beetroot summer salad

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

Things You May Not Know About Beet Root/Beetroot as described on our Beets Infographic

• Beets are often called nature’s viagra with their high BORON content
• Beetroot is also known as the table beet, garden beet, red or golden beet
• Red color compound BETANIN cannot be broken down by our bodies so it may cause temporary red urine & stool (not harmful)
• Cooking beets depletes nutrient levels dramatically
• The TOP GREENS of beets are rich in antioxidants, vitamin A & carotenoids!
• Use a proper JUICER when juicing beets (lots of fiber)
• Contain BETACYANIN which are effective in breaking down tumours
• Beet root is used to treat and cure boils, abscesses and even acne
• Beets contain the HIGHEST source of natural sugar, after the sugar cane

The Just Add Good Stuff beet root infographic (we also call it our beets infograph) talks about general beetroot 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 beetroot infographic will be updated whenever necessary, as studies and clinical research provides us with more insight into the health benefits of beets which would affect our Top 10 beets health benefits. In addition, we constantly experiment with uses of beetroot 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 Beets 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.

Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables Infographics > Know When to Grow and Buy Fresh Fruit, Vegetables and Herbs According to Time of Year

Choosing high quality produce that is fresh and in season takes a bit of self-education. In today’s world, all types of fruit, vegetables and herbs are available year round at local grocers and large supermarkets. From genetically modified produce to streamlined agriculture and shipping methods, consumers have gotten a false sense of reality about what fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables are. Here are a couple of seasonal fruit and vegetables infographics that will tell you when produce is in season:

So when are herbs, vegetables and fruits in season? When should you grow certain types of produce? Why do certain veggies and fruit cost so much more during different seasons? As mentioned above, in today’s world, we can purchase vegetables and fruits any time of year. However, we know that these fruits and veggies are not ‘fresh’. They’ve been picked long before they’ve ripened or are ready for human consumption, then they are packaged and shipped globally before landing in a storage facility at your local supermarket. The environmental impact and carbon footprint is substantial.

Therefore, if you buy your fruits and vegetables by the season, there is a better chance that your produce will be much cheaper, fresher and tastier! That’s why most of the top restaurants in the world will change their menu according to seasonal fruit and vegetables (and herbs), so that their food can taste the best that they can. Another easy way to tell if your fruits and vegetables are in season is by visiting your local produce market and co-op farmers market. They can’t sell anything that’s not fresh, because you’ll know it!

When are Fruits in Season? Check Out This Awesome Seasonal Fruit Infographic!

 
This fruit infographic will tell you what fruits are usually in season at what time of year. YEAR ROUND fruits that are fresh include citrus fruits, bananas and passion fruit. Seasonal SUMMER FRUITS include tomatoes, rhubarb, watermelon, mango, papaya (papaw), grapes, figs and apples. AUTUMN FRUITS that are fresh during the fall and in season include pears, pomegranates, persimmons, cranberries, and coconut. WINTER FRUITS include dates, pineapples, kiwi fruit, guava and kumquats. Last but not least, seasonal SPRING FRUITS include plums, peaches, melons, cherries, berries, avocadoes and dewberries. Buying fruits in season will not only save you money, but will also give you tastier, healthier and more nutritious options.

When are Vegetables in Season? Look at This Amazing Seasonal Vegetables Infographic!

 
So when are vegetable seasons? This infographic will outline when veggies are in season and ripe for purchase at the local grocery store or farmer’s market. YEAR ROUND seasonal vegetables include some surprising ones: beets, celery, fennel, ginger, onions, spinach, broccolini, chard, garlic, greens, potatoes and various types of sprouts. Seasonal SUMMER VEGETABLES include corn (non-GMO), eggplant, bell peppers and okra. FALL/AUTUMN VEGGIES seasonal include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, daikon, parsnip, squash, pumpkin and sweet potatoes. Contrary to popular belief, there are also some awesome WINTER VEGETABLES that are in season during the cold period that include: leeks, rutabaga, turnips, chicory, carrots and celery root. SPRING VEGETABLES in season produce include new potatoes, mushrooms, green beans, pea, snap peas, cucumber, zucchini, chives, ramps, asparagus and artichokes. Buying vegetables in season will not only save you money, but will also give you tastier, healthier and more nutritious options.

When are Herbs in Season? Yes, that’s right, even herbs have seasonal growing patters so check out this educational Seasonal Herb Infographic!

 
Many of us don’t know that herbs are also grown seasonally. In season herbs will give you the best of all worlds when it comes to nutrients, taste and price. So when are herbs in season? Check it out here. YEAR ROUND HERBS in season all the time include savory, rosemary, parsley, fennel, capers and bay leaves. SUMMER HERBS seasonally grown include mace, nutmeg, marjoram, oregano, turmeric and lavender. Seasonal AUTUMN HERBS grown and fresh during the Fall season include fenugreek, lemongrass, cardamom and cloves. Unfortunately, there are no WINTER ONLY seasonal herbs (except for the ones that are grown year round as listed above). SPRING HERBS in season include angelica, anise, arugula, sorrel, basil, mint, caraway, cumin, catnip, chamomile, sage, cilantro, coriander, chervil, dill, thyme and tarragon. Buying in season herbs seasonally will not only save you money, but will also give you tastier, healthier and more nutritious options.

A Guide to Seasonal Fruits & Vegetables > The Bountiful Year

 
If the above isn’t enough information, check out this seasonal fruit and vegetables infographic that is designed to be printed out to hang on your kitchen fridge or to be brought with you to your local market when grocery shopping. Nothing tastes better than eating fruits and vegetables at the peak of their growing season. But how can you keep track of what’s vegetables and fruits are in season? The below infographic shows when various foods should be harvested and likely available in your local market. By picking seasonal fruits and vegetables, you are getting the most nutritious, cheapest and tastiest produce throughout the year. For this summer, try to pick up fresh raspberries, strawberries, pomegranates, peaches, cucumbers, basil, lemons, grapes and figs to name a few summer seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs.

Get Up to 900% MORE NUTRITION from Sprouts Versus Fully Grown Foods

Sprouting foods is the ultimate vegan or vegetarian staple food because of their high levels of nutritional value. It’s been proven that sprouts carry abnormally high levels of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients when compared to fully grown foods.

You can reap the incredible health and nutritional benefits of sprouts just 2 to 8 days after you start the germination process! By doing so, you can grow some of the most nutritionally potent foods in the world in less than a week! Just like microgreens, sprouts from vegetable seeds, bean and nuts contain considerable amounts of nutrients in the form of phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins. When compared to fully grown foods, there’s just NO COMPARISON.

Here are some details about nutrition from sprouts versus fully grown foods that you may not be aware of:
 

Sprouts contain very high levels of protein that are easily absorbable and digestible (plant based proteins).

Sprouts contain more calcium, potassium, iron, sodium and Vitamins A, B1/2/3 and C when compared to their fully grown counterparts.

By soaking nuts and seeds (which is the start of a sprout germination process), you can lesson nutritional depletion and remove toxins. This process can also remove phytates that inhibit the absorption of iron, zinc, copper, magnesium and calcium.

Sprouting peas can yield 800% more Vitamin C then fully grown peas.

Sprouting broccoli (after just 3 days) can yield up to 50 times more phytonutrients than consuming a mature broccoli spear.

Sprouting alfalfa grains contains more natural chlorophyll than mater parsley, kale, spinach or cabbage.

Of course, you can find microgreens and organic sprouts in any health food/organic store. However, it is just as easy for you to grow your own sprouts. It’s clean and simple to do. Plus sprouting is economic considering the high nutritional value of food you get for your dollar.