Know the Dirty Dozen

Learn which fruits and vegetables are the most susceptible to pesticide contamination, and always buy them organic. 

Conventionally grown produce may look succulent and fresh, but it can contain residues from more than 50 pesticides. Some fruits and vegetables absorb these toxins more readily than others, posing a potential risk to you and your environment. 

Support safe farming practices and buy organic produce whenever possible,  especially the following twelve pesticide-prone fruits and vegetables: strawberries, raspberries, imported grapes, peaches, nectarines, cherries, pears, apples, spinach, potatoes, bell peppers, and celery. 

Source: The Little Green Handbook by Ruth Cullen

Herb of the Day: Dandelion

Dandelion

As an herbal medicine, dandelion root has held a distinguished place among European herbalists for centuries. The juice of the dandelion root is still used by European herbalists to treat diabetes and liver diseases. They regard dandelion as one of the best herbs for building up blood and for curing anemia. It is said to act as a diuretic. It is also prescribed as a mild laxative, as an aid in digestion, and as an appetite stimulant. 

Recipe Tip: 

Create a filling for savory pastries by combining minced dandelion leaf, ricotta cheese, feta cheese, and a pinch of mint. Fill pastries and bake in a moderate oven until browned. 

Source: Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs

Can’t seem to shed some extra pounds? Acupuncture is clinically proven to aid in weight loss, and is a safe and effective alternative to weight-loss medications. Read the study here! 

Massaged Kale Salad Recipe

There are so many health benefits of kale. It's an anti-inflammatory, it's rich in iron, calcium, and fiber, and it can even boost our immune systems! Make kale a part of you week with the recipe below from the FoodNetwork.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch kale (black kale is especially good), stalks removed and discarded, leaves thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• Kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons honey
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 mango, diced small (about 1 cup)
• Small handful toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds), about 2 rounded tablespoons

Directions

In large serving bowl, add the kale, half of lemon juice, a drizzle of oil and a little kosher salt. Massage until the kale starts to soften and wilt, 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside while you make the dressing.

In a small bowl, whisk remaining lemon juice with the honey and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Stream in the 1/4 cup of oil while whisking until a dressing forms, and you like how it tastes.

Pour the dressing over the kale, and add the mango and pepitas. Toss and serve.

Acupuncture in the Military

Acupuncture can be used to treat a number of stress-related ailments and conditions. Check out the ways in which acupuncture is helping serve our men and women in uniform!

Sgt. Rick Remalia is familiar with pain. He broke his back, hip and pelvis in Afghanistan. 

Remalia says acupuncture is the first treatment that has really made a difference.