Must Read Tidbit about Sponges

Here is a great study done about our sponges that we use daily. It is a little scary! But it is easy to zap the germs away by microwaving or putting in the dishwasher which I try to remember to do. Let's keep healthy!

 http://ucanr.org/sites/letseathealthy/Nutrition_News_and_Resources/Newsletters_114/?newsitem=41608

Cookie Baking Day

Every year as far back as I can remember I helped my mother with baking holiday cookies to give as gifts. I have continued that tradition with my daughter and now my grandaughters. Here is a sampling of our cookies, gingerbread, chocolate chip, snicker-doodles, Santas whiskers, chocolate-expresso crinkles, Madelines, almond/coconut macaroons and pumpkin. Every year we have our favorites and change out some just for fun and variety.

Arsenic in Apple Juice

Here is a link that talks about the latest findings regarding arsenic in apple and grape juice. I guess we need to go back to juicing our own organic fruits...

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/consumer-reports-magazine-january-2012/arsenic-in-your-juice/index.htm

Walnut Tidbit

A mainstay of my dietary recommendations, walnuts are an excellent choice when it comes to healthy snacking. Walnuts are good sources of: Omega-3 fatty acids, protective fats that promote cardiovascular health, help maintain optimal cognitive function, and tone down inflammation. Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Ellagic acid, an antioxidant compound that helps support a healthy immune system. L-arginine, an essential amino acid which promotes healthy blood pressure. Try adding walnuts to your hot or cold breakfast cereals, eat them as a snack, use walnut oil in salad dressings, and add to pie crusts for a nutritional boost.(Dr. Weil) I keep a sealed container in the refrigerator of our favorite nuts to sprinkle on our breakfast cereal or just to munch on.