Dr. Ann

The delectable Mediterranean Diet, characterized as rich in fruits, veggies, legumes, fish, and olive oil and low in red meat, sugar, and refined carbs has been strongly tied to lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, dementia, obesity, and depression. It is a proven winner for health and taste. Here are two […]

Steel Cut Oats (I love the Coach’s Oats  “cracked and toasted” brand in a large bag from Costco) Black Rice (I buy the large bag of Village Harvest brand, or whatever offered, from Costco) Quinoa (I buy the large bag of Organic Quinoa from Costco) Basmati Brown Rice (Organic 10 lb. bag from Costco) Dried […]

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, […]

  Beans – Beans are the most underutilized economic superfood. This humble nutritional powerhouse of a food group is worthy on many fronts particularly for appetite control, healthy metabolism, cardiovascular health, and brain health. Strive to include a serving in any form and in any variety each day.     Dark Leafy Greens –   Dark […]

Over the past two decades, whole grains have garnered a sparkling reputation for broad-spectrum disease protection and a large review of past studies adds further credibility to this wholesome food group. For the review, the researchers selected studies that focused on whole grains and the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. When […]

This ancient “whole grain” was revered by the Inca’s and is arguably the healthiest of all whole grains (technically it is a seed, but we call it a whole grain because of its taste and texture).  It is a fantastic source of a full package of health – building minerals, is high in protein, including […]

Here are 5 superstar foods that I bet you do not include in your diet as often as you should! Canned pumpkin – 100% canned pumpkin (I love the Libby’s brand) is second only to dark leafy greens in terms of the nutrients it provides per unit calorie. It offers super-high (more than any other […]

I’ll never forget the medical mission my family and I went on in Peru (which included a 28 mile hike to Machu Picchu on the ancient Inca trail) and how it gave me a renewed appreciation for fitness, Mother Earth, and quinoa! Commonly considered a grain, but actually a protein-rich seed, quinoa was revered as ” […]

Whole grains, especially physically intact varieties like brown rice, oatmeal, and barley, continue to display powerful disease-fighting power.  Eating whole grains regularly has been associated with less heart disease, a healthier body weight, less cancer risk, and diabetes protection.  In striking contrast, eating refined grains regularly appears to boost heart disease, incite weight gain, up […]

Of all whole grains, quinoa has the best overall nutritional profile. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Quinoa provides complete protein – which is very rare in the plant kingdom. Quinoa is uniquely high in two highly prized and super potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, kaemferol and quercetin. (Even more than in berries!) […]