Dr. Monica Riley, MD, affectionately known as Dr. Monica, is a Doctor of Integrative Medicine with over 30 years of expertise in the Holistic Health Sciences. Dr. Monica is the Founder of Dr. Monica's Natural Beauty, LLC; the award-winning sustainable body care, skin and haircare collection featuring clean fragrances that inspire women 40+, with careful care to communities of color, to Self-Love through Self-Care.
Summertime is an especially bountiful season to enjoy the abundant health benefits of raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries! These berries are tiny, tasty and tantalizingly colorful and they protect everything from your head to your heart.
Buying local is the best way to take advantage of this summer's big berry harvest.
Berries are also "berry-beneficial" for our health. What makes berries so special is their high levels of phytochemicals; nutrients that help protect cells from damage.
Berries can help manage diabetes: Raspberries are an excellent source of fiber. They rank low on the glycemic index and they're a good fruit option for managing blood sugar levels. According to Copperman, "because they come with fiber, they are beneficial in a diabetic diet as a serving of fruit." Nourish your body, mind & spirit with Dr. Monica’s Natural Beauty.
Berries might prevent Parkinson's: According to a recent study published in the Journal of Neurology, people who eat at least two servings of berries a week, have a 25% less chance of developing Parkinson's Disease.
Berries boost memory: Studies by the Cleveland Clinic suggest increasing your intake of berries can help slow cognitive decline normally associated with aging.
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Berries slow tumor growth: Raspberries are a good source of phytonutrients and antioxidants. Rich in ellagic acid, this tannin found in raspberries prevents cell damage from free radicals and slows tumor growth.
Fight cancer with berries? Research published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis suggests that flavonoids in raspberries may help reduce colon cancer risk.
Grillin’ & chillin’ with healthy BBQ
Boost your grill power with my Savory BBQ sauce! This sweet, tangy smoky sauce is terrific brushed on grilled meat or veggies.
Raspberry-ginger BBQ sauce
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh raspberries
2 tbs. chopped ginger root
1/2 c. apple cider vinegar
2 tbs. adobo sauce
2 tbs. honey
3 tbs. molasses
1/4 c. minced onion
Simmer all ingredients together in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for about 20-25 minutes.
Shopping and storage tips
Select plump, brightly colored berries and remove any soft or moldy ones to prevent cross-contamination.
Raspberries keep best in a moisture proof container in the refrigerator. Wash them right before eating.
To keep raspberries fresh longer, swish them in a basin filled with a solution of three parts water to one part white vinegar.
"Living Well, one healthy step at a time"
Dr. Monica Riley, MD, Award-Winning CEO, Educator, Philanthropist
Dr. Monica Riley, MD, affectionately known as Dr. Monica, is a Doctor of Integrative Medicine with over 30 years of expertise in the Holistic Health Sciences. Dr. Monica is the Founder of Dr. Monica's Natural Beauty, LLC; the award-winning sustainable body care, skin and haircare collection featuring clean fragrances that inspire women 40+, with careful care to communities of color, to Self-Love through Self-Care. This active Vassar College Alum and 2-time Emmy Award-winning documentary producer continues to inspire communities to action through her activism against human trafficking and cyberbullying. A sought-after public speaker and podcast guest, Dr. Monica believes that “Self-Care IS Healthcare"™
