Spring Allergies? Eat Your Way to Better Health

Spring allergies getting you down?  If you could use a little relief from the sneezing, itchy throat, itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, headaches and other unpleasant symptoms of springtime allergies, load up on foods high in antioxidants and flavonoids as they help battle inflammation in your body and helps control symptoms of allergies.

Some examples of foods/drinks that help to control allergy symptoms include:

~ Hot tea - hot tea contains natural antihistamines (any hot tea is good but green tea is even better as it has higher levels of antioxidants)
~ Frozen fruits & vegetables - fresh fruits & vegetables may have small amounts of pesticides that may aggravate allergy symptoms
~ Fish - fish with high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, mackerel and sardines help to lower airway inflammation
~ Organic berries, grapes, citrus, yellow onions, kale, black beans,  - contain high amounts of flavonoids and produce natural antihistamines

If you are sensitive to tree and grass pollen you may want to avoid apples, peaches, cherries, potatoes and carrots as they may contain cross-allergens that will cause your immune system to work overtime.  It may also be a good idea to limit sugar and foods containing stimulants like coffee and alcohol. Avoid spicy foods and foods with high salt content, avoid stress, drink plenty of water and get lots of rest.

Organically Raised: Conscious Cooking for Babies & Toddlers

On May 11, 2010, Organically Raised: Conscious Cooking for Babies and Toddlersby Anni Daulter will be released.  "Organically Raised" is a cookbook that will help conscious parents get updated eco-friendly information, great recipes and more. The book is geared toward nutrition and recipes for children but conscious cooking is something that will benefit the entire family.  Elena Rego, author of "Food Practice" blog has interviewed Anni about her highly anticipated cookbook.  Read the entire interview at Food Practice.

My Love Affair with Whole Foods Market

I've been in love with Whole Foods Market since I discovered them in 2006. Although I adore both of the stores in my area, the Harbor East store is my favorite because that's where I lost my "non-organic lifestyle" virginity. I still remember my first experience--walking into the market, the employees smiling, happy and helpful, the abundance of natural and organic products and the delicious smells wafting about...aaaah, yep, I was totally smitten.

There is so much to be impressed with about this company--the core values, quality standards and products, commitment to the environment, and community giving programs are inspiring but the fact that their team members (employees) have chosen them as one of FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" every year for the last 13 years is amazing. I can totally see myself having a long, rewarding and exciting career working for this company. :>).