Eating Oatmeal for Heart Health

Have I mentioned that I love oatmeal. I think it is the perfect breakfast food and to top it off, it is good for the ole' heart. Oatmeal is cholesterol-free and made of whole grains. It contains soluble fiber that actually binds to and helps remove cholesterol from the blood. Quite amazing, no doubt. No one needs clogged arteries, so it is a good idea to add oatmeal to your diet.

I do get on fried egg kicks every once-in-a-while, but I always go back to yummy oatmeal. It is the perfect winter food too because it is hot and creamy and tastes great with a little cinnamon and Smart Balance buttery spread. I like Smart Balance products and I am really excited that I can get Smart Balance now with added Omega-3's.

It is so important to keep your cholesterol low and your heart healthy. So when they make food products that will help keep you healthy, I get all excited. I do wish they would make Smart Balance a little creamier because it is a little difficult to spread on toast. So, Smart Balance, take note; we need creamier spread. That will make consumers very happy!

Kudos to Quaker for making my mornings happier.

Spices for Your Health

Have you cleaned out your spice rack lately? I checked the expiry dates on mine and found some that were older than my grandmother's china.

If your spices aren't fresh, toss them out. Herbs and spices lose most of their zip after 6 months and whole spices after a year. Whole cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon are good for 2-plus years.

When you head to the market, load up on these spices with Healthy Benefits.

• Garlic - Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure


• Thyme - Soothes a cough


• Oregano - Highest in antioxidants: fights cancers


• Rosemary - Could prevent cataracts


• Sage - Improves memory


• Ginger - Relieves nausea


• Cinnamon - Lowers cholesterol and blood sugar


• Fennel - Eases indigestion


• Tumeric - Slows spread of cancer cells