Dr. Ritamarie

Phytonutrients Decoded — There’s More Than Meets the Eye

As I talk to clients and students in my programs, I’m often asked ”what’s the diet? ” And my answer is always the same. “It depends”  As much as I speak and write about food, and what I refer to as functional food, I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface. ...

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The Health Benefits of Polyphenols in Restoring Balance

I’m a devout believer in the power of functional foods to support and heal the body. Unfortunately, in order for this idea to be widely accepted, science is expected to unequivocally confirm what we already know. But there’s a problem. The current philosophy used by...

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Blueberry Arugula Smoothie

The phytonutrients in foods provide a multitude of health benefits including protection from chronic  disease. The broad range of protective flavonoids found in this smoothie recipe are a great way to incorporate them into your diet.  All flavonoids have antioxidant...

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Adrenal and Immune Boosting Elixir

Adrenal and Immune Boosting Elixir

Functional foods with powerful phytonutrients and supportive adaptogens don’t  need to come on a plate. This tasty and nutritious elixir is packed with both! Nuts and seeds provide minerals and valuable omega-3s while adaptogenic mushroom powders support the immune...

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The Food Matrix and the Future of  Nutritional Research

The Food Matrix and the Future of  Nutritional Research

As science has become increasingly interested in how functional food gets its function, the idea of the food matrix and the food matrix effect is garnering more and more attention. Functional healthcare providers will need a solid understanding of this evolving area...

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Asian Land & Sea Slaw

    INGREDIENTS:     2 cups sprouts, including sunflower seed sprouts  1 green apple  1 avocado  2 cups Sauerkraut  1 avocado or 1/4 cup coconut meat (fresh or from jar)  1 beet  2 cups water  1/4 cup lemon juice      DIRECTIONS:   ...

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Little Miracles Everywhere: Plant Phytonutrients 

As part of my series on functional foods, I want to explore some big questions:   Why should supplementation be approached with caution? How did suspected carcinogens become a common ingredient in all processed foods?  What is the “food matrix” and why is this...

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Fermented Tomato Sauce

  Fermentation decreases the glucose concentration of the food because the “Bugs” eat it.  It also reduces lectins and oxalates in the dish, making them more suitable for people who have difficulty digesting them.  It also provides beneficial microbes and can...

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Slippery Elm Soother (Gut Healing Drink)

    INGREDIENTS:     2 cups sprouts, including sunflower seed sprouts  1 green apple  1 avocado  2 cups Sauerkraut  1 avocado or 1/4 cup coconut meat (fresh or from jar)  1 beet  2 cups water  1/4 cup lemon juice      DIRECTIONS:   ...

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