Maple syrup is the concentrated extract of the sap of maple trees. It adds a rich, deep flavor to foods and drinks.
Make sure to look for 100% pure maple syrup, not maple-flavored corn syrup. As with all sweeteners, organic varieties are best.
Adapted from “The Cane Mutiny,” New Age Magazine, March/April 1999.
Spice Focus: Saffron Saffron has been said to be the most expensive spice in the world.The spice is obtained from the stamens of the saffron crocus. The flowers are hand picked and the stamens are hand plucked, one at a time. The stamens are fine, red yellow threads. Much of the best saffron is grown…
Food Focus: Mushrooms (This article appeared in the April, 2011 issue of A Healthy You.) Mushrooms are low in saturated fat and sodium and are very low in cholesterol. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamin C, folate, iron, zinc and manganese and a very good source of vitamin D, thiamin,…
Food Focus: Beans (This article appeared in the February, 2011 issue of A Healthy You.) Beans. They are good for the heart. Beans are found in most traditional cultures as a staple food, offering grounding and strengthening properties that enhance endurance: Beans, or legumes, which include peas and lentils, are an excellent source of plant-based…
Food Focus: Onion Onion: Onions (Allium cepa) belong to the lily family, the same family as garlic, chives, and shallots. Health Powers: Onion is effective against many bacteria including Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella, and E. coli. Onion extracts, rich in a variety of sulfides, provide some protection against tumor growth; and are used in relief treatment…
Herb Focus: Garlic (This article appeared in the April, 2011 issue of A Healthy You.) Garlic is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. It has been used for ages to treat many conditions, such as: colds, skin disease, parasites, joint problems and arthritis, cysts and growths, and fluid retention. It is also useful in…
Raw Honey (This article previously appeared in the September edition of A Healthy You.) Everyone seems to love honey, one of the oldest natural sweeteners on the market. The flavor of honey varies depending on the plant source. Some are very dark and intensely flavored. Wherever possible, choose raw honey, as it is unrefined and…