Dr. Ann

Although they quite literally bring us to tears, the organosulfur phytochemicals unique to onions and the other members of the allyl food group (garlic, leeks, chives, and scallions) are truly medicinal in their power to protect our health. Red onions are the true superstar standout of this bunch however, as they are uniquely high in […]

Substituting some of your animal-based proteins with vegetable-based proteins is a wise thing to do. By making this swap, you can enjoy your protein along with: A much smaller carbon footprint Phytochemicals Zero cholesterol Negligible to zero saturated fats Beneficial fiber A higher nutrient density Fewer calories The best plant-based sources of protein include: beans/legumes, nuts, […]

Get into the simple, tasty and super-healthy habit of adding herbs to your summer favorites.  Herbs add flavorful intrigue to almost any dish (which means we can cut back on added fats, sauces, and salt) and are virtually exploding with a seemingly endless array of beneficial phytochemicals.  Here are my favorites: Parsley – This refreshing […]

To fully leverage all of the glorious goodness in your vegetables – be sure to eat them along with some form of healthy fat. Fat improves their flavor and texture, but most importantly serves as a vehicle for transporting their fat soluble phytochemicals called carotenoids, from the digestive track into the bloodstream. Carotenoids are one of the most revered […]

Blueberries owe their deep, blue color to a class of phytochemicals called anthocyanins. Like lycopene, anthocyanins have potent antioxidant power, but they are also true workhorses when it comes to fighting inflammation. Science is now telling us that excessive inflammation plays a major role in the development of a broad range of diseases, including heart […]

Learn to jack up the healthfulness and flavor of your meals using these quick and easy techniques! Here are 10 simple ways to dramatically boost the nutrition and flavor of your dishes in less than 10 seconds. 1.  Add 1-2 TBS of toasted wheat germ or shelled hemp seeds (hemp kernels) to your morning cereal, oatmeal, […]

Broccoli is bonafide healthy food megastar. This non-starchy, cold weather veggie is chock full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, yet ridiculously low in calories. Even more remarkable, broccoli is home to over 150 health-promoting phytochemicals, including sulforaphane, now world famous for its anti-cancer prowess. Because I know that “volume” is a powerful appetite suppressant, broccoli […]

Like true nuts, peanuts (which are actually legumes) can rightfully claim superstar food status. In a new report that followed the diets and health status over a five to twelve year period of more than 200,000 racially diverse adult study subjects, those consuming the most peanuts were up to 21 percent less likely to die […]

Kiwis are one of the most nutritious of all fruits.  One kiwi provides an entire days worth of vitamin C along with a nice dose of fiber, potassium, folate, and antioxidant phytochemicals .

Brown rice is a classic example of a physically intact whole grain and a far superior choice than white rice.  Unlike its refined white counterpart, brown rice contains the full package of wholesome nutrition Mother Nature intended for us, and will not spike up your blood sugar level.  The refining process that turns brown rice […]

Choose those with the deepest, richest color.  The more color, the more beneficial phytochemicals it provides and usually the more fiber, vitamins and minerals too.  The superstars include:  all cruciferous (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, kale, collards), carrots, garlic, onions, leaks, sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, tomatoes, winter squash, asparagus, red/orange/yellow bell peppers, berries, cherries, […]

It may be cold outside, but winter brings us foods that are smoking hot for health! Be sure to eat these three often. Broccoli Broccoli is bonafide nutritional megastar. This non-starchy cold weather veggie is chock full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, yet ridiculously low in calories. Even more remarkable, broccoli is home to over […]