Garlic has numerous health benefits, a few of which include support for your immune system, the lowering of your bad cholesterol and the increasing of your good cholesterol. You can mince garlic and add it to spreads, dips, salsas or sauteed vegetables. Also, if you want to have a sweeter flavor and creamier texture, you can add roasted garlic as a spread on bread, pizza and dips. Here’s a quick way to roast a bulb of garlic in your toaster oven:
Wrap the bulb of garlic in aluminum foil and place it into a toaster oven for about 15 minutes on 400 degrees. After 15 minutes, check with a fork to see if the garlic is tender and if it is, you’re ready for the next step.
Remove the garlic bulb from the aluminum foil and peel off the skin. If you are having difficulty removing the skin, press down on the clove with the back of a fork and it will come right off.
Use a fork to mash the garlic, add it to your dish and enjoy!
Instead of using dried cranberries which are frequently sweetened with sugar in order to balance the tartness of the berry, try using fresh cranberries. Simply cut the cranberries into thin slices and add them to your oatmeal, steel cut oats and salads for a great dose of vitamin C, phytonutrients and anti-inflammatory effects.
Flaxseeds are a great source of fiber and omega 3 fatty acids. In order for your body to digest as much of the fiber and micronutrients in flaxseeds as possible, grind them up in a coffee grinder and then add them to smoothies, salads, soups, oatmeal and sauces. Keep whole flaxseeds in your pantry (they can last up to a year) and only grind as much flaxseed as you need for your meal. Also, 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds and 3 tablespoons of water can be used as a substitute for an egg in recipes.
When you wake up in the morning before you eat breakfast, drink at least one large glass of water. This will kickstart your metabolism and rehydration after a night of sleep.
