"Be More Tea"

    Introduced during the Super Bowl this year, Lipton tea launched a very successful commercial of Kermit & the Muppets. The commercial (see link below) features Kermit having a cup of tea then walking through a frenetic New York City. Harry Nisson's version of "Everybody's Talkin'" is playing dreamily in the background. Kermit is immune to the hustle, bustle & noise he experiences along his walk. Yes, he questions, "why can't everyone just be more tea?"
     Yet another reason to take the time & relax with a healthy cup of tea. As Kermit shows us, it is also wonderful for your stress level! I recently was stopped in my tracks at an antique mall where this beautiful, 21 piece porcelain tea set (see photo) was calling my name. Maybe it was the soft spring grass green & pink colors. Maybe it was because the price was soooo good. I'd like to think that with that set comes an excuse to have relaxing tea with friends; Spending time with friends & drinking healthy tea is a win, win for your health studies have shown.
    I've posted the  health benefits of drinking green tea (see left) before, but all teas have endless health benefits. For your own tea with friends, make sure you have honey, lemon, creamer with a variety of teas (have you seen the endless varieties in the stores?) and some delish tea sandwiches & flakey shortbread cookies perhaps... yum. Yes, I think I'll just be more tea.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RUa55vAdbc

5 Pain-Fighting Foods

   Ever have those days when getting out of the car or up from the sofa elicits a groan? Yeah, me too. In the March issue of Woman’s Day magazine, nutritionist Joy Bauer handpicks five of the most powerful pain suppressing foods. (And they are delicious at that). Pick some up on your next shopping trip.

1)   Sweet Potatoes ~ the beta-carotene is a strong antioxidant that fights those cell damaging free radicals. I love them simply baked. But slicing into steak fry size, tossing in olive oil and baking that way saves time. Sprinkle with a bit of sea salt. Yum

2)  Red Bell Pepper ~ this pepper has twice the vitamin C as an orange. Vitamin C aids in the health of collagen that helps our joins stay flexible. They also contain beta- cryptoxanthin, a compound that helps reduce pain. Use in salads, omelets, as a dipper with a healthy dip.

3)  Salmon ~ contains a healthy dose of those important omega-3 fats. This can help decrease inflammation by suppressing the production of enzymes that harm cartilage. Also, an omega-3 rich diet can lead to less joint swelling and stiffness.

4)  Turmeric ~ this spice contains an anti-swelling compound called curcumin and can lower inflammatory chemicals in the body. You can buy in pill form. I like to swap out condiments like mayo for turmeric-rich mustards.

5)  Ginger ~ mimics some anti-inflammatory medications. Use fresh or ground in cooking.

Enjoy shopping & trying new recipes with these feel good foods & spices!