Dare You To...

Fall!  Leaves!  School!  And... APPLES!

Although I didn't love eating fruit as a child, apples are one that I always enjoyed.  As an adult, I've gone through phases of apple consumption.  Whenever they're around, I gladly eat them, but I just have to remember to buy them.   Whenever I do, I'm always pleasantly surprised by how tasty they are!  This fall, I've dared myself to step up my apple game, and I dare you to, too!


"An apple a day keeps the doctor away," or so they say.  I don't know if this is true, but I do know that apples have been long hailed as a health food.  What's all the fuss about? Don't so many health companies and apps use an apple in their logo or icon?  Why is that?

What's so great about apples?  Let's explore:
Nutritional Benefits Fiber
Antioxidants
Vitamin C
Boron
Pectin
*many of these nutrients are contained in the skin -- don't leave em out!Note that apples are high in sugar.  Of course, this is a natural s…

It's been a while since a Friday Features, so I've got a couple interesting and informative links saved up.

I'll kick off with a popular video from this week, demonstrating how an ingenious French supermarket made deformed produce popular:




Speaking of fruits and vegetables, a recent meta-analysis of over
300 studies found that "organic food as more antioxidants, less pesticide residue"
... and no one should be shocked.  Duh.  To learn more, visit the Huffington Post.

Then, Marion Nestle evaluates the previous study and asks whether
nutrition is even the right question.  Read her Food Politics postto learn
other good reasons people choose to eat organic foods.



Mark Sisson analyzes "The 'Dangers' of Going Gluten Free".

More questionable links between fat and heart disease
are explored in this Wall Street Journal article.

Similarly, The Angry Trainer answers, "Is red meat really bad for you?"


Further disrupting "conventional wisdom&q;…

The 4th of July is tomorrow, and I hope my American readers have some fun activities planned.  If you can get outside, soak in some vitamin D, get active by walking, hiking, playing sports... all great healthy ways to spend the holiday!  Today, I dare you to add a healthier dish to whatever BBQ or party you attend!


A few years ago, I brought this "flag" out of blueberries and white chocolate-covered strawberries to a a BBQ.

Fruit can be used in other ways to create red, white, and blue desserts.  You can make these patriotic popsicles (below), recipe over at An Edible Mosaic. No sugar added!


Greatist also has 10 recipes for your 4th of July.  Check them out here.

You can also swap that apple pie for this grain-free apple crisp!

Want more ideas?  Pinterest is a goldmine for finding healthier treats to serve at or bring to parties.


Dare you to think outside the apple pie box and create some festive treats of your own!

How will you be celebrating Independence Day?  Have any favo…