I find it so fascinating that many foods we eat look like the body part they benefit. It’s like God is giving us visual clues. “Here simple humans. I’ll make it obvious!”

Because there are so many, I decided to make this topic a series!

Kidney beans

This is an obvious one. Kidney beans look like kidneys. They are a great source of fiber, plant based protein, and iron just to name a few. They can also help lower blood pressure. The flip side: gas! I’m sure everyone remembers the bean song- “Beans, beans, the musical fruit. The more you eat the more you toot.” So eat in moderation and avoid on your first date!

With cooler weather on the horizon in Michigan, chili will start making its way into our kitchens. I use a variety of kidney beans in my chili.

Kim’s chili recipe

1 can light red kidney beans

1 can dark red kidney beans

1 can mild chili beans (hot if prefer spicy)

1 can pinto beans

1 jar low sodium tomato juice

1 onion, chopped

1 lb lean ground beef

1 can corn

1 packet chili seasoning

Brown the meat and drain. Mix all ingredients into a crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. My favorite way to eat chili? With crushed up nacho cheese doritos. Yum.

Ginger

Ginger is great for digestion. I buy Ginger root and boil it in a pot of water for about 10 minutes. I love to mix this in with other tea. If you have an upset stomach or sluggish disgestion, ginger is a great remedy. It is also good for nausea as well and has some anti-inflammatory properties. No surprise here since it resembles the stomach/intestines!

Ginger tea recipe

Ginger root (whole or peeled)

12-16 ounces of water

Boil a pot of water with ginger root for 10-15 minutes. Let cool and store any unused tea in the refrigerator.

Red wine

Red, red wine. Classic song! Are you singing it yet? Who knew red wine can be good for you – in particular your blood and heart.

A glass or two of red wine can raise your HDL (good cholesterol) and lower your LDL (bad cholesterol) which can help unclog arteries.

Resveratrol is a key ingredient in red wine that could prevent damage to blood vessels.

Bummer for me, I prefer white wine. But I do try to work in a glass of red from time to time. Like most things, moderation is key. While 1-2 glasses a day could be beneficial, 1-2 bottles a day is probably overkill! Just sayin’

Walnuts

Walnuts look like and benefit the human brain. They are rich in Omega 3 which helps promote brain health. Some studies have shown walnuts prevent cancer and are full of antioxidants. They are especially high in Vitamin E. Like most nuts, they are high in “good fat.” Just watch your serving size – a handful (about a 1/4 cup) is typical.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of the series coming up in a few weeks!