Healthy as Hummus

Hummus helps make a great healthy snack.  Hummus contains a lot of fat, however, it is good fat, with plenty of Omega 3 in it. It also contains important nutrients, such as iron, vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, and copper. It also contains folic acid, which has been found to prevent birth defects when eaten by pregnant women. Hummus has a low glycemic value. This means it does not raise your glucose levels very quickly which leaves you feeling satiated for longer. Hummus also contains large amount of tryptophan, phenylalanine, and tyrosine. These are amio acids that work as mood lifters and can also lead to more satisfying sleep. These and other amino acids found in hummus are essential, which means that your body cannot make them independently. Hummus is a terrific source for these essential amino acids.  Hummus is full of vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids. You can find more information and some tasty hummus recipes by going here http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/hummus-recipe-and-health-benefits

Cheers to Cherries

Cherries are a great healthy snack with lots of health benefits. There are two types, sweet cherries and tart cherries. The sweet Bing cherry is the most common variety. Tart cherries are used to make pies, juice concentrate and can also be dried.  Cherries are fat-free and low in calories and sodium. They are high in potassium, Vitamin C and B-complex vitamins. Cherries contain pigments called anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are antioxidants that give cherries their dark red color. Tart cherry juice and dried tart cherries are actually more powerful than Vitamin E. Cherries, especially tart cherries, contain high levels of melatonin. Melatonin is an antioxidant that is thought to help slow the aging process, fight jetlag and regulate sleep. Research suggests that cherries could potentially help treat diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. Research also suggests that cherries may help prevent colon cancer and work to significantly reduce pain caused by muscle damage, gout and arthritis. Cherries are also thought to lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol). Read more about cherries in this article http://www.suite101.com/content/health-benefits-of-cherries-a160877