Coloring A Pictur Of Health (NAPSA)—Colorful dishes and foods may be more than just eye candy. New research suggests they can help a person avoid a variety of health conditions— including heart disease and premature aging—and enjoy a more fruitful life. Nutritionists say the best cancer fighting foods are generally colorful vegetables and fruits that contain phytochemicals andfibers. As evidence, they cite the Mediterranean diet. The incidence of cancer rates in Mediterranean cultures (cultures that generally eat large amountsof fruits, vegetables, olives andolive oil) is significantly lower than U.S. rates. In fact, a recent study concluded up to 25 percent of colorectal cancer, 15 percent of breast cancer and 10 percent of prostate, pancreas and endometrial cancers could be reduced if Americans changed to a traditional Mediterranean diet. Foods such as California Black Ripe Olives can help families do just that. The olives are high in monounsaturated (or “good” fat) and are associated with many of the health benefits linked to Mediterraneanfoods. To give your next meal a healthy dose of flavor and color, try this recipe: Technicolor Vegetable Saut 2 teaspoonsolive oil 1 cup babycarrots (2” pieces), scrubbed 1% cup pattypan squash, ends removed,cut into wedges 1% cup green beans,cut to 2%” and blanched Colorful fruits and vegetables have been linked to lower cancer rates. 1 cup California ripeolives, whole 1% teaspoons thyme, chopped 1 teaspoon garlic, minced % teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon unsalted butter % cupsred beets, steamed, peeled and 1” diced Directions Heat oil in a large saut pan over medium heat. Add carrots and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly browned. Add squash and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender. Stir in green beans, olives, thyme, garlic and salt and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Toss with butter and sprinkle with beets. Serves 4. Nutritional Analysis Per Serving: Calories 374, Fat 8.7 g, Choles- terol 83mg, Sodium 635mg, carbohydrate 58.5g, Protein 15.8, calories from fat 20.6 percent. For more information and recipes, visit www.CalOlive.org.
