Kristen's blog

Rich in vitamin C and carotenoids, this soup is an excellent choice for giving your immune system a lift. It's also rich in a phytonutrient (beta-cryptoxanthin) that is thought to be particularly good for promoting healthy lung function. Read more

Though mashed potatoes can be a nourishing side or main dish, if you tend to have high blood sugar or insulin levels, it's probably best that you limit your consumption of potatoes to a serving or two per week. Read more

If you're big on soups and you enjoy fresh garlic bread, this dish will likely cause you to do a little jig before going for seconds.

Garlic is a surprisingly good source of vitamin C, which partially explains why it's long been thought to boost immune system strength. Read more

All varieties of sweet potatoes provide vitamin C, carotenoids, fiber, and vitamin B-6 (helpful for keeping homocysteine at a healthy level), and even minerals like iron manganese, and potassium. Read more

This all-raw, nutrient-dense dip is an excellent substitute for dairy-based dips that are commonly served with vegetable platters. The creamy substance of this dip is provided by raw, organic cashews, which are naturally abundant in magnesium, healthy fatty acids, copper, and tryptophan. Read more

Surprisingly delicious and rich in a number of health-enhancing nutrients, green pea soup is a solid choice for any health-conscious budget. This soup will provide you with plenty of natural vitamin C, healthy omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, healthy carbohydrates, and a few unique phytonutrients that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. - Ben Kim Read more

If you're looking for a truly healthy, protein-rich food to anchor your diet, I highly recommend that you consider quinoa (pronounced keen wah). Called the "mother of grains" by the Incan empire, quinoa is native to South America, and is naturally rich in all nine essential amino acids - these are amino acids that we humans can't make from other nutrients, so must obtain from our diet. Quinoa is one of a few grains that are gluten-free, and for most people, it's easy to digest and utilize. Read more

A healthier version of Reese peanut butter cups, these chocolate cashew butter cups deliver plenty of heart-healthy flavonoids and healthy protein. If cashew butter isn't your thing, feel free to substitute with your preferred nut butter - almond butter and organic peanut butter work just as well, though both are less naturally sweet than cashew butter, so you may want to add a little more honey to the filling. - Ben Kim

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Though not as popular as various squashes and hardy greens that take center stage come autumn, fennel stands toe to toe with most other plant foods in nutritional value.

It's a solid source of natural vitamin C, folate, healthy fiber, and potassium. It also provides some calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus for bone-building. Read more

What do you get when you combine macadamia nuts, coconut shreds, walnuts, avocados, fresh lime juice, dates, honey, and sea salt? Only the healthiest version of key lime pie that I've ever tried. The crust requires some patience and elbow grease, but it's completely worth the effort. Read more