Lovin' Limes

Try baking with fresh limes.
Photo by Hotblack, Morguefile.com

One of my favorite summertime flavors is lime. So, what's the first lime-flavored treat that comes to mind? For me, it's always key lime pie.

The tangy, creamy, cool pie somehow melts away the heat, humidity and better part of an afternoon. It isn't a quick pie to make when you're working from scratch.

My local grocery store had limes on sale 12/$1 and I just couldn't resist grabbing a few. Since I didn't have the time or patience to whip up a pie, I had to search for a new use for those limes.

I stumbled across a lime shortbread cookie recipe at the Land O' Lakes website that looked easy and tasty. I whipped up a batch in no time (using unbleached rice flour) and they were fabulous! Since I can't eat healthy all the time, this was a nice little homemade treat.

Next time I'm going to try substituting powdered stevia for the ultra-bad-for-me powdered sugar. What are you favorite lime recipes? I'd love to learn a healthier, yet sweet, lime concoction for the future.

Until Next Time!

Choose Healthy,
Angela

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Fabulous Farmer's Market Finds in May

Farmer's Market
Photo by Acrylicartist, Morguefile.com

Think it's too early to visit your local farmer's market? Think again! Sure the home-grown watermelons aren't ripe yet, and it's too early for fresh carrots, but lots of other whole foods goodies are ready to go.

My local midwestern market has plenty of hydroponic tomatoes, asparagus and leaf lettuce. The honey vendors are out in full force. And the egg and meat farmers have their local products for sale too.

My local farmer's market has grown in leaps and bounds over the last few years. Whether it's the chilly start of market season or the fall wrap-up, craft vendors abound. From dried flowers and wood crafts to jewelry artisans and painters, there's always something to look at even if your favorite produce isn't in season.

And of course, the bakeries make decadent appearances all season long. To keep your sweet tooth happy and your healthy eating plan in place, opt for items made with whole wheat flour, raw honey, farm-fresh eggs and local milk.

Until next time,

Choose Healthy!

Angela
Whole Foods Living

Blog Award!

Thanks to author and foodie Amy Brantley, Whole Foods Living was honored with the Stylish Blogger Award today! If you want to share the love and send an award to your favorite blogger, play along.

The rules are as follows:

 1. Thank and link back to the person giving you the award. (Thanks to Amy at Recipes that Please with Ease! )
2. Share 7 things about yourself.
3. Award 10-15 blogs that you think deserve this award.
4. Contact these bloggers and let them know about the award.

7 things about me:
1. I love to cook and bake.
2. I'm a sucker for 1980s hair metal music.
3. I love to eat healthy.
4. I had a pet python for 16 years. His name was Poe.
5. I LOVE lentils.
6. I've read the entire Little House on the Prairie book series more than once.
7. I love to be crafty with photos and scrapbooking.

Until Next Time,
Choose Healthy!
Angela

Energy-Boosting B Vitamins

Dried beans, peas, soybeans and whole grains
are rich sources of vitamin B1, thiamine.
Photo by Ronnieb, Morguefile.com

B vitamins are known for their energy-boosting properties. But, what exactly are B vitamins and how can I get them from whole foods? Choose fresh whole fruits, raw vegetables, dried legumes and lean proteins daily.

Here's more about three popular B vitamins: thiamine, riboflavin and niacin.

Vitamin B1 - Thiamine
Thiamine is the leader of the B vitamins. Also known as B1, thiamine is a water-soluble vitamin. Excess thiamine is excreted through urine, so the vitamin needs to be replenished on a daily basis, according to The New York Times Health Guide online.


Thiamine's Purpose in the Body

Like other B vitamins, thiamine is crucial for chemical body processes. B1 converts carbohydrates into energy and helps the heart, muscles and nervous system function properly. When someone is deficient in thiamine, they may ... continue reading.

Asparagus is a good source of
vitamin B2, riboflavin.
Photo by Sideshowmom,
Morguefile.com

Vitamin B2 - Riboflavin

Also known as vitamin B2, riboflavin builds body tissues, helps maintain vision and controls metabolic activities in the body. Riboflavin in the heart, liver and kidneys protects cells from oxygen damage and promotes energy production in the cells.

The vitamin is a team player with other B vitamins. Riboflavin works together with enzymes to convert the amino acid tryptophan into vitamin B3, or niacin. Having enough vitamin B1 in the body helps ... continue reading.

Nuts and leafy green vegetables
provide niacin, vitamin B3.
Photo by Conejoaureo, Morguefile.com

Vitamin B3 - Niacin

Niacin is a member of the powerhouse B vitamins. Also known as vitamin B3, niacin helps regulate digestion, metabolism and the nervous system. Niacin is responsible for converting food to energy. Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, works with enzymes in the body to convert the amino acid tryptophan into niacin.

Water Soluble, Replenish Often

Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin. Foods rich in niacin must be consumed regularly since excess vitamins are dispelled in the urine daily. The body does not store niacin for future needs.

Adding niacin to your diet is easy by ... continue reading.

Until Next Time,

Choose Healthy!

Angela