Category Archives: Recipes

Why Dr. Hoody Endorses this recipe:

Dark chocolate dipped apricots are one of my favorites. Apricots are naturally low in calories, high in fiber, high in available vitamin A and contain many phytonutrients. Apricots are also an antioxidant, and they can help create healthy eyes, skin and gut and even help detox the liver. Dipped in natural dark chocolate is an ideal combination as it is so tasty and dark chocolate can add health benefit to your blood vessels, increase brain function, and even allow you to boost your mood.

Why Dr. Hoody Endorses this recipe:

Dark chocolate contains flavonoids which improve blood vessel elasticity and regulates blood pressure and blood flow to the organs. Flavonoids increase nitric oxide in the body, which has strong anti-inflammatory effects, widens blood vessels, and reduces clot formation. Nitric oxide increases blood flow to the brain which improves cognitive performance and reduces cognitive decline. It can improve muscle recovery after exercise.

Dark chocolate contains dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that helps control the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. It can reduce depression and regulate anxiety. Chocolate is linked to serotonin which can make you feel happier, calmer and less anxious.

Why Dr. Hoody endorses this recipe:

As summer descends upon us, we need refreshing and healthy beverages to help us beat the heat.  I like watermelon slushies so much that I wish I had thought of them. Watermelon is nectar from the gods, a superstar drink that makes Gatorade look like soda. The recipe I am sharing can be consumed as an adult cocktail by adding vodka or as a delicious slushie that the entire family can enjoy.

Watermelon grows easily in warm climates, so no surprise that it is full of nutrients needed to replenish our lost electrolytes from the warm weather. It contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant with many health benefits including sun protection, improved heart health and can even lower the risk of certain types of cancer. It lowers inflammation and reduces oxidative damage. As an antioxidant, lycopene may also benefit brain health. For example, it may help delay the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Why Dr. Hoody endorses this recipe:

Zucchini is an unsung hero in the vegetable family. This recipe is nutritious, fun to eat for adults and kids, and a healthy twist on a family favorite.

Here is why I endorse this recipe. Zucchini can aid in weight loss and get rid of puffy eyes because of its super hydration qualities and Zucchini is 95% water by weight. It strengthens bones because of its available calcium, decreases cholesterol levels due to its high fiber content and antioxidants. It’s potassium level can help decrease blood pressure and the high zinc found in zucchini can enhance hair growth. And most of all, due to its balance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, zucchini can increase your immunity.