Cashews have long been a popular snack food and cooking ingredient, but recent research has shown that they may also have some surprising health benefits, including improving symptoms of depression.

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are many treatments available for depression, including medication and therapy, there is growing evidence that a healthy diet may also play a role in managing symptoms.

One food that has been shown to be particularly beneficial for depression is cashews. These tasty nuts are a rich source of nutrients, including magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B6, all of which have been linked to improved mood and cognitive function.

One study published in the journal Nutrients found that a diet high in magnesium was associated with a lower risk of depression in adults. Cashews are a particularly good source of magnesium, with just one ounce providing almost 20% of your daily recommended intake.

Another study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that supplementing with zinc was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in young women. Cashews are a good source of zinc, with just one ounce providing around 15% of your daily recommended intake.

Finally, vitamin B6 has also been linked to improved mood and cognitive function, with some studies suggesting that it may be particularly beneficial for women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Cashews are a good source of vitamin B6, with just one ounce providing around 10% of your daily recommended intake.

Of course, it's important to remember that cashews alone cannot cure depression, and anyone suffering from depression should seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. However, incorporating cashews into your diet as part of a healthy and balanced diet may be one way to support overall mental and physical health.

So go ahead and enjoy that handful of cashews as a snack, or add them to your next stir-fry or salad. Your body (and your mood) will thank you.

Have you tried our Always Be Closing smoothie? Apple, Beets, Carrots. Beets are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that have been enjoyed for thousands of years. Not only are they low in calories and high in fiber, but they also contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. Here are some of the potential benefits of beets:

May Improve Heart Health: Beets are a good source of nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps to dilate blood vessels, which can help to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Studies have found that consuming beets or beet juice can improve cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving endothelial function.
May Improve Exercise Performance: The nitrates in beets may also help to improve exercise performance by increasing endurance and reducing the amount of oxygen needed during exercise. One study found that consuming beet juice before exercise improved performance by up to 16%.
May Support Brain Health: Beets are a good source of betaine, a compound that has been shown to support brain health by reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress. Some studies have also found that beet juice may help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
May Improve Digestive Health: Beets are high in fiber, which can help to improve digestive health by promoting regularity and reducing the risk of constipation. They also contain a variety of other beneficial compounds, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, that may help to reduce the risk of digestive disorders like colon cancer.
May Support Detoxification: Beets contain a variety of compounds that support liver health and detoxification. One study found that consuming beet juice increased the levels of detoxification enzymes in the liver, while another study found that beet juice improved liver function in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Our Green Sweetie smoothie is loaded with goodness: kale, spinach, red apple, almonds, banana, raisins, honey, almond milk. Here are some of the potential benefits of including these foods in your diet:

Almonds: Almonds are a good source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium. Studies have found that consuming almonds may help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health. Almonds may also help to control blood sugar levels and promote feelings of fullness, making them a great snack for weight management.
Kale: Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is particularly high in vitamin K, which is important for bone health, and vitamin C, which supports immune function. Kale also contains compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, and support healthy digestion.
Raisins: Raisins are a good source of fiber, antioxidants, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including iron and potassium. Studies have found that consuming raisins may help to improve blood sugar control, reduce inflammation, and support heart health. Raisins may also help to promote feelings of fullness and aid in weight management.
When combined together in a dish like almond, kale, and raisin salad, these foods provide a powerhouse of nutrition that can help to support overall health and well-being. In addition to the specific health benefits listed above, this combination of foods is also rich in a variety of other beneficial compounds, such as phytonutrients, flavonoids, and polyphenols.

The combination of garlic, ginger, lemon, cayenne, beets, and pineapple can provide a range of health benefits due to the various nutrients and bioactive compounds present in these ingredients. There are individual studies that demonstrate the health benefits of each of these ingredients:

Garlic: A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that garlic supplementation can improve immune function and reduce the incidence and severity of colds and flu in adults.
Ginger: A study published in the Journal of Pain found that ginger supplementation can reduce muscle pain by up to 25%.
Lemon: A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that lemon juice has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial for reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Cayenne: A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that cayenne pepper can improve blood flow and circulation, which may help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Beets: A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the nitrates in beets can lower blood pressure and improve endothelial function, which may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Pineapple: A study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology found that bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving immune function.

Drinking lemon water and baking soda mixed together is a popular home remedy that is said to offer a variety of health benefits. Here are some of the potential benefits:

Digestive Health: Lemon water and baking soda can help to improve digestive health by reducing acid reflux and balancing the pH levels in the digestive tract. This can help to alleviate symptoms like bloating, gas, and constipation.
Alkalizing the Body: Lemon water and baking soda are both alkaline in nature, which means they can help to balance the body's pH levels. This is important because an acidic body can lead to a range of health problems, including inflammation, weight gain, and immune system dysfunction.
Detoxification: Lemon water and baking soda may help to support the body's natural detoxification processes. Lemon is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to neutralize toxins in the body. Baking soda can also help to alkalize the body and support detoxification.
Hydration: Drinking lemon water and baking soda can help to keep the body hydrated, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and organs. Lemon water can also help to boost immune system function and reduce inflammation.
Improved Athletic Performance: Some athletes believe that drinking lemon water and baking soda before a workout can help to improve endurance and performance. This is because the alkaline properties of the mixture can help to reduce lactic acid buildup in the muscles, which can cause fatigue.
While there is limited scientific evidence to support the benefits of drinking lemon water and baking soda mixed together, many people believe that it can offer a range of health benefits. However, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before trying any new home remedies or supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Here are some of the health benefits associated with Blend Juice Bar’s “Energy Bites”:
1. Goji berries: Goji berries are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They may help improve immune function, protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals, and promote healthy skin and eyesight.
2. Cacao nibs: Cacao nibs are packed with flavonoids and antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. They also contain magnesium, which is essential for bone health, and may improve cognitive function.
3. Flaxseed: Flaxseed is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Flaxseed may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of breast cancer, and improve digestive health.
4. Oats: Oats are a good source of fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Eating oats may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve blood sugar control.
5. Coconut oil: Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can be used for energy and may help improve brain function. It also has antimicrobial properties and may help promote healthy skin and hair.
6. Honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds. It may help soothe a sore throat, reduce coughing, and improve wound healing.
7. Peanut butter: Peanut butter is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. It may help reduce the risk of heart disease, improve blood sugar control, and promote satiety.

Have you tried our Paleo monkey? It’s loaded with almonds, cacao, bananas, and a honey. Cacao, which is the raw material used to make chocolate, has a number of potential health benefits. Here are a few examples of studies that have investigated these benefits:

Cardiovascular health: A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming dark chocolate (which is high in cacao content) daily for two weeks improved blood vessel function in healthy adults. This improvement in blood vessel function could potentially lead to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Cognitive function: Another study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition found that consuming a high-flavanol cocoa drink improved cognitive performance in healthy adults. Specifically, the study found improvements in tasks related to attention, processing speed, and working memory.
Mood improvement: A study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that consuming a cacao drink high in flavanols improved mood and cognitive performance in adults with symptoms of depression.
Blood sugar control: A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming a high-flavanol cocoa drink improved insulin sensitivity and reduced blood sugar levels in healthy adults.

While cilantro has been found to contain certain compounds that may have chelating properties (i.e., the ability to bind to and remove metals from the body), the evidence is limited and inconclusive. Cilantro, also known as coriander, is an herb commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. While its healing effects are still being studied, here are some of the potential health benefits of cilantro:
Rich in nutrients: Cilantro is a good source of vitamins
A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium.
May have antioxidant properties: Cilantro contains compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids that may have antioxidant effects in the body. Antioxidants can help protect the body against damage from harmful molecules known as free radicals.
May help reduce inflammation: Some studies suggest that cilantro may have anti-inflammatory effects, which could potentially benefit conditions like arthritis and certain digestive disorders.
May have antibacterial properties: Cilantro contains natural compounds that may have antibacterial effects, which could help protect against certain infections.
May help regulate blood sugar: Some animal studies suggest that cilantro may help regulate blood sugar levels, which could potentially benefit people with diabetes.

Looking for a simple and delicious breakfast recipe? Try this avocado toast with rosemary rye bread! Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

2 slices of rosemary rye bread
1 ripe avocado
1 tbsp of lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, microgreens, smoked salmon
Instructions:

Toast the slices of rosemary rye bread to your liking.
While the bread is toasting, mash the ripe avocado with a fork in a small bowl. Add the lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste.
Once the bread is toasted, spread the avocado mixture evenly onto each slice.
Top with your favorite toppings. We love cherry tomatoes, microgreens, and smoked salmon for an extra flavor boost!
Serve and enjoy your delicious avocado toast.
Not only is this recipe simple to make, it's also packed with healthy fats, fiber, and other important nutrients. Give it a try and let us know what you think!

Boosting your immune system is essential for overall health and well-being. Here are some ways to naturally boost your immune system:
1. Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein provides essential nutrients to support immune function.
2. Get enough sleep: Sleep is critical for immune function, and getting enough restful sleep can help boost your body's ability to fight off infections.
3. Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help improve immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
4. Manage stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, so finding ways to manage stress, such as meditation or yoga, can be beneficial.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and other fluids helps keep the body hydrated, which is essential for immune function.
6. Maintain good hygiene: Washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with sick people can help prevent the spread of infections.
7. Consider supplements: Certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc, may help support immune function. However, it's essential to talk to a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
Remember that boosting your immune system is not a guarantee that you will not get sick, but it can help reduce the risk of infections and improve your overall health.