leafy greens

Cabbage is a member of the Brassicaceae family, commonly known as the mustard family. There are 107 genera in the family; the cabbage is in the genus Brassica L. The origin of the plant is quite complicated because of the number of genera. The earliest cultivation of cabbage took place in Northern China, approximately 4000 years ago. In Europe the plant was cultivated about 3000 years ago and became a world staple. In the wild it was a leafy plant like kale and was produced in the form of a head in 14th century England.

Arugula is also known as “rocket” and is originally a Eurasian cruciferous plant related to cauliflower, kale, and mustard. It grows wild in Asia and the Mediterranean basin and takes its name from the Latin term “eurca,” meaning caterpillar, because of the plant’s hairy stems.

While you may have heard of “folate” and “folic acid,” you may or may not know what it is, what it is for, or if you should take it. Nowadays, there are so many health trends and supplements that it can be easy to forget some of the most basic and simple nutrients and minerals that are important to have in our diets, and possibly as a supplement when needed.

Here are some basics to get you started about Folate and Folic Acid.

Omega-3 fatty acids are vital to our health. Keeping the heart healthy, the nervous system in check, and our cholesterol levels down, Omega-3s are a friend to the body. One of the best sources known for Omega-3 is fish. If you are vegetarian and vegan, however, this presents a problem. As someone who has primarily a vegetarian diet, I myself have had to be conscious of knowing where my Omegas are coming from.

Just over a year ago, I changed my grocery shopping habits. Instead of looking for the best deals, I began looking for the best options for my health. I was already buying quite a few organic packaged products, but not as much organic produce. Now, I buy fewer packaged products overall and 100 percent organic produce whenever possible. Why? After taking a few food and environmental politics classes, I was enlightened about how unfortunately detrimental to one’s health pesticides truly can be.

Electrolytes are what keep us going. These ionized minerals send electrically charged signals throughout our body, allowing cells to function. Without them, our cells would not be able to communicate and our body would shut down. Rigorous exercise can cause electrolyte loss via sweating. If you are tempted to grab a sugary, neon-colored sports drink to rehydrate, stop! The best way to replenish electrolytes is through food. Look to one of these food sources if you are in need of an electrolyte boost of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Calcium