It’s easy when feeling bored or stressed to give little regard to the health impact of what we eat. Yet, we all need every defense against COVID-19. Research has repeatedly demonstrated that people who eat an overall nutritious, whole-foods, plant-based diet most of the time have stronger immune systems than those who primarily eat foods that are refined and highly-processed.

Red lentils are petite darlings that have a slightly sweet flavor, cook up in just 10 minutes, and serve up almost a beef burger’s-worth of protein. This is one of those recipes that seems too easy to offer much flavor. I made it before yoga one evening in about 20 minutes, turned off the heat, and came home to a delicious, healthy meal. At winter’s-end, we’re all a bit ‘soup weary’, but the lemon and baby kale make it refreshing as we anticipate the arrival of spring.

Though a definitive relationship between the consumption of pomegranates and health hasn’t yet been established, it’s a healthy fruit to jazz up winter plates. Hundreds of arils (ruby red seeds) comprise the heart of the fruit. Pomegranate arils have a juicy and refreshing taste with hints of sweetness and citrus, and are high in vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium. Arils can be eaten as is, added to cereals, salads, beverages, desserts, or as accents for seafood, poultry, meat and other dishes. Due to pomegranate’s high polyphenol content, it has been touted as one of the distinguished edibles that’s classified as a “superfood”—a popular buzzword in the language of food and health.

Although the determinants of mental health are complex, there is emerging and compelling evidence for nutrition as a significant factor in the high prevalence and incidence of mental disorders, suggesting that diet is as important to psychiatry as it is to cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology.

Strawberries picked in summer are sun-kissed with sweetness—a taste that’s almost impossible to find throughout the rest of the year. For a dessert, this cake is relatively nutritious as the recipe has just enough sugar and loads of good taste—your family and guests will think they’re super indulging —Swweeeet!!!

Wholesome ingredients, make these bars a yummy and nutrient dense snack after school or practice, out on a hike, or between meals. They’re a good source of protein, healthy fats, and low-glycemic index carbs. Just 5 ingredients—Easy to make too!