Eat– for Good Health
Want a trim tummy? Enjoying a cup of cantaloupe daily can lead to an effortless 13-pound weight loss in twelve weeks. Researchers at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis tell us the fruit’s beta carotene, which heightens the brain’s sensitivity to the appetite-suppressing hormone leptin is responsible. That’s not all; malic acid in cantaloupe binds belly fat to celluar fluid for efficent removal by the lymphatic system. After cutting a melon in half and scooping out seeds, I put cottage cheese in the “crater”. Pick a golden (not green) melon. You will know if it’s too ripe by shaking it next to your ear. It shouldn’t slosh inside.
Cantaloupe also contains vitamin A, a nutrient used to synthesize glycoproteins, molecules that speed skin-cell turnover to ensure a smooth complexion. Phenylalanine and tyrosine in the melon are amino acids which help the body make dopamine, a neurochemical required for motivation and focus. Consumption of canteloupe can reverse atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries by 46% in four weeks according to a discovery made by Korean scientists at Chungnam National University.
Here’s a quick recipe for Cajun-kissed Tilapia. In a bowl, combine 1 cup diced cantaloupe, 1 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning such as McCormick’s blend. Lightly coat 4 tilapia fillets (about a pound) with olive oil or spray. Sprinkle evenly with the blend. In a large sprayed skillet over medium heat, cook fillets about six minutes on a side or until fish flakes with a fork. Top with the salsa.
Fish sounds delicious with the cantaloupe salsa.