Fall Gratitude Salad Food Facts and Health Benefits

Pomegranates contain three times more antioxidants than green tea and are rich in flavonoids, which protect the cells from free radical damage, and help prevent diseases such as prostate, breast, lung, and colon cancer. The fruit also reduces inflammation and the effects of aging, risk of strokes and heart attacks, lowers blood pressure, and reduces blood sugar levels.

Pomegranates are a source of fiber, which promotes weight loss, lowers bad cholesterol, and eases constipation. They are rich in folate, vitamin K, vitamin E, vitamin B6, and potassium.

How to Prepare Pomegranates

Cut off both ends. You may see the membranes that divide the inside of the fruit. Cut into the skin from top to bottom along these ridges. Next, slice deep enough to cut through the skin and the white membrane without cutting the pomegranate seeds. Hold the pomegranate over a bowl of water and pry it apart with your fingers. Pull the seeds away from the membrane and skin, allowing them to fall into the bowl of water. The membrane will float to the top of the water, and the seeds will sink to the bottom. Remove the membrane, and throw it away. Drain the water from the seeds.

Radicchio This leafy vegetable is low in calories, low-sodium, fat-free, and cholesterol-free, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Radicchio also may help with weight loss since it’s a good source of dietary fiber. It is high in vitamin K, which is an important nutrient for healthy bodies and brains. Vitamin K may have a role in cognition, especially as people age.

Butternut squash is a great hydrator. Like other orange-colored fruits and vegetables it is full of beta-carotene and alpha-carotene promoting vitamin A, which is important for Immunity. It is full of lutein and zeaxanthin often found in yellow fruits which protect your eyes from UV rays. It is a great source of fiber good for keeping blood pressure low, reducing risk of heart disease and stroke and it is low on the glycemic index so keeps your blood sugar stable.

Fennel Is rich in Iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Calcium. Is heart healthy a good source of fiber containing patassiuma nd folate. It can support healthy skin, lower imflammation, aid in weight management, and improve symptioms of anemia. In many parts of the world it is used after meals to aid digestion because it reduces inflammation in the bowls decreasing bacteria and gassiness. And it has been known to ease menstrual cramps and colic.

Pumpkin Seeds, originally used in Oaxaca Mexico as a folk remedy to treat UTI, high blood pressure and blood sugar, kidney stones and parasites. Modern science confirms they have an impressive nutrient profile. Rich in protein and unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. They can reduce risk factors for chronic diseases including cancer. They are Anti-inflamitory containing my antioxidants which protect us from disease causing damage and reduce inflammation. Great source of dietary fiber and help maintain good function of the liver, bladder, bowel and joints. High in magnesium they can help relax the muscles of the body and lower blood sugar and blood pressure making it good for diabetics and help in the reduction of heart disease. . Lab studies show pumpkin seeds can stop the cell growth of breast and prostate cancer cells.

Celery contains phytochemical compounds known as coumarins. Studies have shown that they are effective in cancer prevention and capable of enhancing the activity of certain white blood cells. It lowers blood pressure, and tones the vascular system.

The core of the cabbage contains A high amount of natural pepsin, a digestive enzyme that helps break down the rest of the cabbage, so it’s good for digestion.

Apples are high in pectin this helps reduce and prevent gallstones, promotes a healthy digestive tract.

Parsley Often labeled as one of the most powerful disease-fighting plants, works as a powerful natural diuretic and can help reduce bloating and blood pressure. Parsley is loaded with vitamin K, which has been linked to bone health. Parsley is particularly rich in flavonoid antioxidants and vitamin C, which reduce oxidative stress in your body and may lower your risk of certain cancers. It also is known to antibacterial.

Mint has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments for many years. Besides freshening the breath, consuming mint may promote brain health.  Mint is perhaps most popularly known as a remedy for digestive problems. Taking peppermint oil reduces abdominal pain and helps treat irritable bowel syndrome without producing side effects. Some studies have found that mint is able to kill bacteria, reduce stress, and fight cancerous tumor cells.