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.

HOT RECIPE > Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls

Soft, chewy and simply yummy, BLONDIES have taken the dessert and snack world by storm. A fantastic combination of nuts, dates, berries and seeds make these some of our favorite all-time desserts or mid-afternoon snacks and we want to share the recipe with you!

Introducing Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls. You can learn a lot from a recipe name. Firstly, yes, it’s Mike’s own blondie ball recipe. Secondly, the ingredients in Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls are completely raw and unaltered. In addition, they are also GMO-free and truly organic. We also try to source all ingredients from local markets and farmers. Thirdly, this is our take on the traditional ‘Blondie’, which is usually a ‘Blondie Square’ or a ‘Blondie Bar’. We’ve changed it and made the into 2-bite balls instead!

Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls Recipe, just for you

Please share with your friends and family!

Servings: 10 dessert balls
Preparation Time: 10 – 15 minutes

The Healthy & Organic Ingredients for Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls:

1 cup of cashews (organic, unsalted and dry)
1 cup of pistachios (organic, unsalted and dry) > you can substitute with pecans, walnuts or macadamia nuts
¾ cup of Medjool dates (organic and pitted, cut into smaller pieces)
1 tbsp of chia seeds (organic)
2 tbsp of sunflower seeds (organic)
1/8 cup of agave syrup (raw and organic)
1 tsp of lemon juice (freshly squeezed from organic lemon)
1 tsp of vanilla extract (organic if possible)
1/8 tsp of salt
0.5 oz of dried blueberries (organic and wild blueberries if possible)
0.5 oz of dried cherries (organic)
0.5 oz of dried cranberries (organic)
0.5 oz of raisins (organic)

Preparing Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls is easy and fun:

Step 1: Plug in your food processor
Step 2: Place all ingredients (except dry berries and raisins) into food processor
Step 3: Process until it becomes a bit sticky and wet
Step 4: Gradually add in the dried blueberries, cherries, cranberries and raisins and continue processing until the mixture becomes firmer*
Step 5: Form into balls and lay on a baking tray or plate
Step 6: Place in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or the freezer for at least 30 minutes)
Step 7: Enjoy and Share with friends

* The process usually takes 45-60 seconds.

 

 
 
In order to make Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls recipe lower in nut fat content, you can replace the cashews and nuts with old fashioned rolled oats (gluten free if possible). In addition, you can replace any of the dried berries with any type of unsulfured, dried organic fruit (such as mango, pineapples, coconut and freeze dried strawberries).
 
You will note that Mike’s Raw Blondie Balls get their sweetness from agave syrup (optional) and Medjool dates. These are much healthier than refined sugar. If you find that the dessert balls are too sweet, you can take out the agave syrup (as opposed to the dates which act as the binding agent for the balls).
 

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.

Juice Booster Ingredients > Want to Elevate Your Smoothie or Juice Blend to the next level?

 
If you are looking for 5 new ingredients to add to your morning smoothie or juice, please read on! These five organic, natural and raw ingredients will pack your drink with lots of nutrition, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and trace elements that will keep you going through the day! If you missed SET 1 – JUICE BOOST INGREDIENTS, click here or our new SET 3 – SMOOTHIE BOOSTERS. Otherwise, here are 5 new nutritious ingredients that will give your juice a boost!

Juice Booster #6 > Just Add Spinach

An easy way to elevate the health benefits and nutritional value of your juice blend, spinach is one of nature’s best superfoods. A cup of spinach has nearly 20% of your daily dietary fiber requirements which will help in your digestive processes and lower your blood pressure. Recent studies also link spinach to fighting prostate and other cancer with its high levels of phytonutrients. Adding spinach as a juice booster also improves your vision, disease immunity, and brain function in addition to maintaining healthy bones and skin. Just adding spinach to your juice or smoothie will also fight inflammation. Spinach is also very high in antioxidants, which help in combating atherosclerosis as well as osteoporosis. You can find organic spinach at any local grocer or farmer’s market or you can easily grow your own. Spinach is one of our favorite juice boost ingredients!

Smoothie Boost Ingredient #7 > Just Add Hemp Seeds

One of our favourite juice boost ingredients at Just Add Good Stuff is hemp seeds. This is nature’s highest botanical source of essential fatty acids. Hemp Seed as a smoothie booster ingredient will aid as an anti-inflammatory agent, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. In addition, there are no known allergies to hemp seeds, so they are completely safe for people who are sensitive to lactose, sugar, gluten or nuts. In addition, food cravings are reduced and therefore, hemp seeds are often added into a weight loss program. A juice boost ingredient like hemp seeds will also help you increase focus and energy levels in addition to reducing stress. Hemp seeds are a superfood and there are several reasons for this. They contain high levels of protein (including 20 amino acids … and all 9 essential amino acids). In addition, the hemp seed juice booster also contains fatty acids, Vitamin E and lots of fiber. They are easy to digest and offer a rich source of natural phytonutrients, the disease protection that will aid in your immunity against diseases and infection. Just Add Hemp Seeds!

Juice Booster #8 > Just Add Maca

Derived from a herbaceous plant that is found on the high plateaus of the Ande’s Mountains in Peru, South America, the maca root vegetable has often been referred to as the ‘Peruvian Ginseng’ because of its many health benefits. Often coming in powder form, adding maca as a juice booster will give you lots of added nutrients and energy. A relative of the turnip and rash, the maca root smells a bit like butterscotch and adding maca to your morning smoothie or as a juice booster will help treat everything from chronic fatigue to anemia. Not only that, but maca in any form when consumed will reduce stress levels, anxiety, depression and help balance your mood. In addition, the maca juice booster can also contribute to clearing acne in a natural way in addition to promoting sexual function in both femals and males. Athletes use maca juice boosters to increase energy. WARNING > DO NOT add maca to your smoothie or juice booster if you are breast feeding or if you are pregnant.

Smoothie Booster Ingredient #9 > Just Add Lemon

Many of us forget that lemons help us balance our body’s pH levels. Although acidic in taste, once our body metabolizes lemon, they are alkaline which is the key to good health. Just add lemon into your daily smoothie or juice to boost your immune system as lemons are very high in Vitamin C and potassium. In addition, studies have shown that pectin fiber in lemons help curb food cravings and therefore have been an essential ingredient in many weight loss programs. As well, the smoothie booster ingredient also aids our gastrointestinal tract and keeps things moving in our digestive system. Another often overlooked property of lemons is that they hydrate our lymph system which prevents dehydration and adrenal fatigue. The lemon juice boost also decreases blemishes, acne and wrinkles, promoting healthier skin.

Juice Booster #10 > Just Add Seaweed

Seaweed has been around for centuries and it serves as an ideal choice for any morning juice blend or smoothie if you are looking for more Vitamin A and C as well as magnesium, iodine and calcium. Seaweed doesn’t contain any fat, and a serving only contains 5 to 10 calories, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. The juice booster seaweed includes edible species like Red Dulse, Black Hijiki and Green Kumba, and all are equally nutritious and tasty additions to your smoothie or juice booster. Some of the health benefits of seaweed include aiding your digestive system and lowering your high blood pressure. As well, recent studies have shown that adding seaweed into your diet may have anti-cancer properties. So instead of just having seaweed as part of your sushi roll, try seaweed as a juice booster!

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: spinach, hemp seeds, maca, lemons and seaweeds.

Everything You Need To Know About Calories > Ultimate Calorie Infographic

Thanks to your friends at LifeQuotes4U, here is the ultimate calorie infographic that explains: what a calorie is, calorie recommendations, examples in fast food and take-out meals and how calories are burned in exercise and through sport. It’s a real eye-opener!

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CALORIES

 
The calorie infographic above gives you an idea of how calories are measured and how they are burned (or not burned) off through fitness and exercise.  Just Add Good Stuff believes that it is important for all of us to be more aware of what we are putting in and on our bodies and understanding what calories are and where they come from is essential in controlling our nutrition and diet.  It’s up to us to make sure that we are feeding ourselves with nutritional foods and not empty calories.  As mentioned in this calorie infographic, a calorie is the approximate amount of energy that is required to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius.  The term ‘calorie’ was first used in 1824 as a unit of measurement of heat.  It has now come to be used as a unit of measurement of the energy contained within food and drink.  When you look at labels, cal (all lower case) is 1 small calorie.  This is NOT to be confused with Cal (with a capital ‘C’) which is equivalent to 1000 small calories (cal).  The Cal is also known as the kcal (or kilocalorie).  Remember that most packaging labels use cal and NOT kcal or Cal.

Calorie Recommendations according to…

 
As you see in this calorie infographic, the NHS (Great Britain) recommends that the average man requires 2,500 Calories per day.  The average woman, in comparison, requires only 2,000 Calories per day. On the other hand, the USA Government recommendations for daily Calorie intake is as follows:

2-3 Years Old = 1,000 Cal for males | 1,000 Cal for females

4-8 Years Old = 1,400 Cal for males | 1,200 Cal for females

9-13 Years Old = 1,800 Cal for males | 1,600 Cal for females

14-18 Years Old = 2,200 Cal for males | 1,800 Cal for females

19-30 Years Old = 2,400 Cal for males | 2,000 Cal for females

31-50 Years Old = 2,200 Cal for males | 1,800 Cal for females

51+ Years Old = 2,000 Cal for males | 1,600 Cal for females

The USA Government also recommends these levels of ‘empty calories’ per day for males and females (see below).  The estimated empty calories intake is for unusually physically active individuals. Empty calorie are those that are derived from solid fats or added refined sugars.  Cakes, sweets, soft drinks, fast food, all contain a high number of empty calories as seen in this calorie infographic:
 

2-3 Years Old = 135 Cal for males | 135 Cal for females

4-8 Years Old = 120 Cal for males | 120 Cal for females

9-13 Years Old = 160 Cal for males | 120 Cal for females

14-18 Years Old = 265 Cal for males | 160 Cal for females

19-30 Years Old = 330 Cal for males | 260 Cal for females

31-50 Years Old = 265 Cal for males | 160 Cal for females

51+ Years Old = 260 Cal for males | 120 Cal for females

The Problem Starts Here > Calories in Fast Food

 
In 2013, the top 10 most unhealthy foods from America’s five most popular fast food chains are absolutely horrific when you are looking at empty calories intake.  The problems with fast foods from Hardee’s, Burger King, McDonalds, Wendy’s and KFC are that they contain a whole lot of empty calories and not much nutritional value.  Here are the 10 most unhealthy foods from these popular fast food chains according to the calorie infographic:

10. Burger King – Tendercrisp Chicken Sandwich (750 cal)

9. McDonald’s – Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese (750 cal)

8. KFC – Chicken Pot Pie (790 cal)

7. Hardee’s – 1/3 lb Original Thickburger (810 cal)

6. Wendy’s – Baconator (970 cal)

5. Burger King – Double Whopper With Cheese (990 cal)

4. Wendy’s – ¾ lb Triple (1,060 cal)

3. McDonald’s – Big Breakfast with Hot Cakes (1,090 cal)

2. Burger King – Triple Whopper with Cheese (1,230 cal)

1. Hardee’s – The Monster Thickburger (1,300 cal)

And The Problem Continues with Calories in Takeout Foods…

 
But the problem with empty calorie intake doesn’t stop at the top five fast food chains.  Popular takeout foods are also loaded with carbs and empty calories as noted in this calorie infographic:

5. Fish and Chips (838 kcal)

4. Kebabs (1,000 kcal)

3. Indian Foods like Chicken Tikka Masala, Pilau Rice, and 1 Plain Naan Bread (1,338 kcal)

2. Chinese Foods like Sweet/Sour Chicken, Egg Fried Rice and Vegetable Spring Roles (1,436 kcal)

1. Pizza – 12” standard size (1,835 kcal)

But, Calorie Intake is not the only problem…

 
As you know, eating is not the only problem in America.  It’s also the lack of exercise that is causing us to be the most obese nation in the world. Take for instance the examples in this calorie infographic.  Calories burned by a 150 lb person during 1 hours participation in exercise:

Dancing > 370 cal > The average Chinese takeaway would take 3:53 (yes, that’s 3 hours and 53 minutes) of dancing to burn off the calories consumed in Chinese takeaway food.

Football/Soccer > 468 cal > A McDonald’s Big Breakfast with Hotcakes would take 1 hour and 20 minutes to burn off when playing intense football/soccer.

Swimming > 603 cal > A Hardee’s Monster Thickburger would take 2 hours and 9 minutes to burn the calories when swimming!

Jogging > 675 cal > The average Indian kebab takes 1 hour and 29 minutes to burn off when jogging!

Other Calorie Inforgraphic Interesting Facts and Figures:

 
In 2011, Americans spent $117,000,000,000 on fast food.  There were 311 million people living in the United States in 2011, making the giant fast food industry approximately $376 per person!  Per campita consumption of fast food in 2005 around the world was: $566 in the US, $456 in Canada, $390 in Great Britain and $363 in Australia!  In the UK in 2011, there were 5,400,000,000 visits to fast food restaurants.  Even more striking is that half of all meals consumed in Britain are from fast food joints!
 
More information is online here: http://visual.ly/ultimate-guide-calories