Don't Forget the Peel!

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

06 Feb 2008 03:13 PM

When you're snacking on fruits and vegetables, don't forget to eat the peel! In many fruits and vegetables, the peel is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fiber. Don't forget to eat the peel when you're having an apple or a potato.

You might not think of the peel, however, when you're eating an orange or slicing a lemon for your iced tea. But the peels of citrus fruits are chock full of vitamins, minerals, and some amazing compounds.

• A compound called salvestrol Q40 can kill enzymes that encourage the growth of human cancer cells.
• A compound called limonene is also thought to decrease cancer risk.

If the thought of chowing down on an orange or lemon peel doesn't thrill you -- it sounds pretty gross to me -- there are lots of ways to include citrus zest in your diet! Be sure to wash your fruit with soap and water first, then zest the rind. Don't bother saving the white pith -- that part is way too bitter!

• Add citrus zest to your favorite stir-fry for flavor.
• Brush citrus zest onto meats on the grill. Try lemon with chicken or orange with beef.
• Mix citrus zest into vanilla yogurt.
• Sprinkle citrus zest onto vanilla ice cream.
• Steep citrus zest in boiling water with your favorite tea.
• Add citrus zest to the batter when you're making baked goods.
• Freeze your favorite juice and a bit of zest in an ice cube tray for tasty mini-popsicles.

One teaspoon of lemon zest has just one calorie -- so adding citrus zest to your cooking won't add extra calories. As an added benefit, citrus fruits are natural aromatherapy mood boosters! Lemon sharpens senses; grapefruit lifts your spirits. Citrus scents are great for alertness and good cheer.

For a mood boost AND a health boost, you can't beat citrus zest! Lemon, grapefruit, tangerine, lime, orange... they're all good!

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger