3 Things To Know About Saturated Fats

1. Not all saturated fats are created equal. Different kinds of saturated fats have very different biochemical effects on our bodies. Saturated fats are often distinguished from each other by the number of carbon atoms that they contain. Most naturally occuring saturated fats have between 4 and 28 carbon atoms.

2. Trans fats, or “partially hydrogenated” fats, are man made fats that act like saturated fats although they aren't. They can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while lowering HDL (good) cholesterol levels. They are thought to be the worst kind of fats you can eat.

3. In general, our bodies burn shorter chain saturated fats more easily than longer chains. As a result, coconut oil, which is a shorter chain saturated fat, is often thought to be healthier choice than other varieties such at that in animal fat or palm oil.

5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Pineapple

1. Pineapple is related neither to the pine tree or the apple. It is a member of the Bromeliaceae family.

2. Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain which has been linked to preventing the growth of malignant tumors, anti-inflammatory action, and enhanced absorption of some drugs such as amoxicillin.

3. If you add fresh pineapple to a gelatin dessert the enzymes in the pineapple may prevent the gelatin from setting.

4. Eating unripe pineapples can be poisonous.

5. Pineapple juice is a natural diuretic and can help rid the body of toxins.

3 Myths About Fats

Myth # 1: Saturated Fat Is Always Bad For You
The truth is not all saturated fats are created equal. Some forms of saturated fat, such as the kind in coconut, are actually very healthy in moderation. Also, many saturated fats are an excellent source of antioxidants and fat soluble vitamins such as A, D, and K2 which are essential for good health.

Myth #2: We Need To Eat More Omega-6s
It is omega-3s not omega-6 we need more of. Although there are some health benefits to omega-6s most of us get more than enough already but not enough omega-3s. Among other things, omega-3s are linked to better cell communication, fewer behavior problems, disease prevention, child development, and lower blood pressure.


Myth #3 Eating Fat Makes You Gain Weight
The truth is that we need to eat a certain amount of fats for our body to function properly, and the consumption of healthy fats in moderation may actually help with weight loss. 

Tomato Soup & The Power of Lycopene

One reason that tomato soup can be very good for you is because tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant called lycopene which condenses during the slow cooking process. Also, the heat makes the lycopene in tomatoes easier to absorb, although since it's fat soluble, it's important to also consume it with some dietary fat.

 Lycopene is a super powerful antioxidant allegedly having about twice the antioxidant power as beta-carotene. Antioxidants help to reduce the damage caused to the body by free radicals and, as a result, help protect the body against numerous diseases as well as slow the aging process. Lycopene has been linked to preventing cardiovascular disease, skin damage, cancer, osteoporosis, and diabetes. Lycopene has also been specifically linked to the prevention of prostate cancer.

Why Clementines Are The Perfect Winter Fruit

I love to eat fruit in season. It just tastes so much fresher and more delicious! Now that it's winter I'm really missing my summer berries. However, clementines have really been doing a great job of filling the empty space. In fact, I think they just might be my favorite winter fruit! They are great source of vitamin C which helps boost immunity during the cold/flu season. They are low in calories, only about 35 calories each, although they are so delicious I usually eat two! They are convenient to buy and to eat, and make great healthy travel snacks. Winter fruit problem solved!

Are Baked Potatoes Nutritious?

Although many people may try to avoid baked potatoes due to the high carbohydrate content, potatoes do contain a number of health promoting vitamins and nutrients. Below are four reasons to not feel guilty the next time you decide to indulge in the hot goodness of a baked potato, although finding healthy toppings is a must! However, you have to eat the skin! That's where a lot of the nutrients are.

1. Potatoes are a good source of fiber. Fiber is important for keeping the digestive system healthy. It can also help you to stay full which is helpful if you are watching how much you eat.

2. Potatoes are a great source of vitamin C which is essential for good health.
Why Getting Enough Vitamin C Is So Important!

3. A baked potato is a good source of vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 gives you energy, helps your brain function better, and may help fight lung cancer and heart disease.

4. Potato skins contain a variety of flavonoids which may help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Hopefully you found this information helpful. Be sure to follow Eat Groovy on Twitter (@EatGroovy) and subscribe via email here.

5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Pears

1. Some ancient Chinese considered the pear to be a symbol of immortality.

2. Pear leaves were once smoked in Europe before the introduction of tobacco.

3. The smooth texture of the pear earned it the nickname "butter fruit."

4. In ancient Greece, pears were used as a remedy against nausea.

5. Pears are recommended for weaning babies because they are easy on the digestive system.

3 Reduced Calorie Mac 'n Cheese Recipes

Do you love Mac 'n Cheese but hate all the fat and calories? Below are three reduced calorie versions of this favorite comfort food. Oh, and did I mention these recipes sound absolutely delicious?!

1) Green Chile Mac 'n Cheese
This recipe from hungry-girl uses cauliflower in place of some of the macaroni. (Why Is Cauliflower So Good For You?) Plus it includes onions and jalapeno slices which I love! You can find the recipe here:
http://www.hungry-girl.com/weighin/show/2484

2) Lighter Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe from skinnytaste.com includes onions and spinach. It also suggests adding some mushrooms which sounds like a brilliant idea to me. Just looking at the picture makes me hungry! Find the recipe here:
http://www.skinnytaste.com/2010/05/lighter-baked-macaroni-and-cheese.html

3) Skillet Mac & Cheese
This recipe from prevention.com caught my attention because of the spices it uses (mustard pepper, paprika, and cayenne). Yummy! It definitely sounds worth a try. Find the recipe here:
http://www.prevention.com/food/cook/healthy-recipes-ellie-kriegers-low-calorie-comfort-food?page=2

5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Cinnamon

1. Cinnamon comes from the bark of a tree belonging to the Lauraceae family.

2. Cinnamon is used as a preservative in many cultures and is helpful in keeping harmful bacteria, like salmonella, at bay.

3. Cinnamon is considered to be good for your health. It has shown to be helpful treating various diseases including diabetes, arthritis, high cholesterol, and certain kinds of cancer.

4. Some "lip enhancing" lip glosses use cinnamon because it can cause swelling of the lips.

5. A teaspoon of cinnamon has about 6 calories.

3 Great Reasons to Drink Orange Juice

1. Orange juice contains lots of vitamin C.Vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin that helps produce collagen and strengthens the immune system. Vitamin C helps heal cuts and wounds and helps maintain bones, teeth, gums, and blood vessels. It helps protect against heart disease, stroke, cataracts, and diabetes. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant and helps you properly use other vitamins and minerals such as folic acid and iron. Because vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, and is not stored in the body, it is important to consume vitamin C-rich foods each day.

2. Did you know that orange juice can improve your mood? The smell of citrus can trigger a mood enhancing effect in your brain. Who doesn't want to be in a better mood?

3. It's absolutely delicious!

5 Foods To Ease An Upset Stomach

1. Papaya
This tropical fruit contains enzymes, including papain, which promote a healthy acidic environment in the stomach. Eating papaya can help with indigestion and constipation and has also been used for ulcers.

2. Applesauce
Apples contain powerful antioxidants that will help your body's immune system and promote healing. They also contain pectin as well as other enzymes that help detoxify and rid the body of harmful particles. It is a light food that will ease your stomach while providing your body with essential vitamins and minerals. Not to mention it is delicious! I prefer mine with a little cinnamon sprinkled on top which just so happens to be the next food on the list.

3. Cinnamon
This tasty spice has been used to treat gas, morning sickness, and diarrhea. Sprinkle some on baked apples, oatmeal, or a slice of toast, for a tasty treat.

4. Ginger
Various studies have shown ginger to be effective in helping to reduce nausea. Try some ginger snaps or a ginger tea.

5. Saltine Crackers
These, and other high starch foods such as toast, will help to absorb stomach acid. Reducing stomach acid will help to ease your stomach pains.

5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Grapes

1. More grapes are grown throughout the world than any other fruit.

2. Over 95% of grapes produced in the United States come from California.

3. Since ancient times grapes have been believed to have healing properties.

4. Grapes are rich in powerful antioxidants, and a number of studies have shown a link between grapes and cancer prevention.

5. One grape vine can grow up to 50 feet.

What Are Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)?

Essential fatty acids are necessary fats that the body cannot synthesize, and must be obtained through diet. Omega-3 and Omega-6 are two families of EFAs. They are important for proper organ function, cell activity, blood circulation, and a healthy nervous system. EFA deficiency, especially Omega-3 deficiency, is fairly common and linked with a variety of serious diseases and health conditions. Foods that are rich in EFAs include fish, nuts, and seeds so finding ways to include more of these in your diet can certainly improve your health and reduce your risk of disease.