Pecans, walnuts, and almonds possess much the same attributes giving these nuts a blanket title of “Superfoods”.  Where they differentiate is in the levels of nutrients they contain.

ALMONDS

Almonds are a complete source of energy as well as nutrition; high in dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals and other health promoting phyto-chemicals. A handful of nuts a day provides much of the recommended amounts of proteins, vitamins and minerals.

Almonds are rich in oleic and palmitoleic acids that lower LDL and increase HDL cholesterol and help prevent coronary artery disease and strokes.

Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E (170% RDA, 25g per 100 g).  Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant required for maintaining cell membrane integrity by providing protection from free radicals.

Almonds are gluten free and are used in preparation of food alternatives for people with celiac disease and wheat allergies.

The nuts are packed with many important B-complex groups of vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, and folates.  Altogether, these vitamins work as co-factors for enzymes during cellular substrate metabolism.

Almonds are also an incredible source of minerals such as manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.

Almond oil is used in cooking, aromatherapy, and as a carrier oil in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

PECANS & WALNUTS

Walnuts contain the highest level of polyphenolic compounds among all the common edible nuts.  Studies indicate that as few as 6 to 7 walnuts a day would help scavenge nearly all the free radicals from the human body.

Pecans and walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids.  Eating as little a 25 grams of these nuts provide 90% of the RDA.  The powerful anti-inflammatory action of omega-3 fatty acids help lower blood pressure, control coronary artery disease, stroke, and protect against cancers of breast, colon, and prostrate.

Tom Fetch 9-26-16

The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span.  Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared.  We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice.  We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

POMEGRANATE

Pomegranates, because of notoriety and marketing, have been heavily researched. This fruit truly lives up to its hype.

They are a very good source of fiber, antioxidants and a host of vitamins and minerals. Regular inclusion of this fruit in diet boosts immune system, improves circulation, and offers protection from cancers.

Ellagitannin compounds: Granatin B and Punicalagin are abundant in pomegranate juice. These compounds are effective in reducing heart disease by scavenging free radicals from the human body.

Regular consumption of pomegranates have been found effective against prostrate cancer, BHP (benign prostatic hyperplasia), diabetes and lymphoma.

The juice is very rich in essential B-complex vitamins, vitamin K, and minerals: calcium, copper, potassium and manganese.

Tom Fetch 2-2-2014

The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span. Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared. We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice. We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

PERSIMMONS

Persimmons have a wealth of health benefits packed in side them.

Persimmons, like most fruits, are high in dietary fiber. High fiber fruits boost the gastrointestinal system and help protect against colorectal cancer and similar ailments. They also reduce lipid uptake and assist in weight loss.

Persimmons contain betulinic acid which is a proven anti-tumor compound that plays a part in prevention and/or reduction of tumor development.

Vitamin rich persimmons contain vitamin A, beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, cryptoxanthin. These function as anti-oxidants reducing oxidative stress and prevent premature aging conditions such as wrinkles, age spots, Alzheimer's, fatigue, poor vision, and weak muscle tone.

Persimmons contain potassium and other vasodilators that increase blood flow and lower blood pressure. Persimmons work so well in this capacity that people with hypotension should use caution when eating because their blood pressure may become dangerously low.

Persimmons also contain copper, essential in the formation of new red blood cells. Increased circulation of new red blood cells increases cognitive function, metabolism, cellular growth and wound repair.

The zea-xanthin in persimmons is linked to good eye heath reducing macular degeneration, cataracts, and night blindness.

Tom Fetch 1-26-2014

The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span. Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared. We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice. We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

MULBERRIES

Wow!  I need to catch my breath for a moment...When I began this journey; I had a fundamental understanding of nutrition, but no way did I believe we had such a wealth of health benefits at our finger tips. This bounty of nutritious food is a delicious way to get your "ounce of prevention".

If you have been following these blogs you will have noticed that there has been some repetition regarding the benefits of eating fruit. Fruit flesh, in general, is full of vitamins, nutrients, antioxidants, fiber and a host of good stuff; so it would make sense that they would support good health is a similar fashion. What makes all this so fascinating to me is how there is also unique properties in each fruit to make them specially suited to combat specific ailments of the human body, and mulberries are no exception.

Mulberries are an excellent source of iron, which is rare among berries, which is a component of hemoglobin inside the red blood cells that determines the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood.

Mulberries are composed of phyto-nutrient compounds such as antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. They are high in phenolic flavonoid phytochemicals called anthocyanins. These provide benefits in combating aging, neurological diseases, inflammation, diabetes and bacterial infections.

Mulberries contain resveratrol. Resveratrol protects against stroke by altering molecular mechanisms in the blood vessels; reducing damage by limiting the activity of angiotensin, which causes blood vessels to constrict and increases nitric oxide, a vasodilator.

Mulberries contain zea-xanthin, a carotenoid that concentrates into the retinal macula lutea and protects the retina from ultraviolet ray damage.

Mulberries are a good source of potassium, manganese, and magnesium; important in controlling heart rate and blood pressure.

Mulberries are rich in B-complex vitamins and vitamin K, including B-6, niacin, riboflavin and folic acid. These function as co factors in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Tom Fetch 1-19-2015

The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span. Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared. We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice. We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

JUJUBES

Jujubes have been used as herbal medicine for thousands of years throughout Asia.

Jujubes are highly nutritious and loaded with vitamins and minerals that benefit the blood stream, hormones, bones, soft tissue, enzymes and neurotransmitters.

Jujubes are high in vitamins A, C, and potassium that strengthen the immune system. The mucilaginous property of the fruit soothes sore throats. These benefits combined make Jujubes a natural cold and cough preventative.

Jujubes contain 18 out of the 24 important amino acids and helps form more than 50,000 proteins of the body; triggering wound healing.

Jujubes have a soothing effect on the nervous system and act as a natural sedative; and relieve stress and anxiety.

Jujubes help lower blood pressure.

Antioxidants in Jujubes help protect the liver from injury.

Jujubes are used to treat anemia and purpura.

And perhaps the most important benefit is that Jujubes inhibit the growth and movement of free radicals. This helps control the growth of tumor causing cells and the cells that lead to cancers; especially leukemia.

Tom Fetch 1-12-2014

The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span. Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared. We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice. We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

CHERRIES

Cherries are a power house of antioxidants and very beneficial for maintaining good health. Anthocyanin, that gives cherries their red color, is a dietary antioxidant that has therapeutic and preventive roles in a number of ailments.

Cherries are a rich source of  vitamin A and beta-carotene which benefits eyesight as well as fights cancer in organs and glands.

Vitamin C and many B family vitamins (folic acid, niacin, riboflavin) are building blocks of cherries.

Cherries also have small amounts of iron, magnesium, potassium and protein.

High levels of antioxidants make cherries great for our overall health and especially for our heart and cardiovascular system.

Cherries stimulate production and secretion of digestive juices; improving our digestive systems.

Cherries have cleansing properties that help liver and kidneys perform better.

Cherries have a long and proven role as an anti-inflammatory. Cherries reduce swelling and pain associated with arthritis and gout. Cherries help control excessive uric acid production that occurs with these ailments.

Cherries are high in melatonin. Melatonin helps strengthen our immune system, maintain healthy sleep patterns, and slows development of cancerous tumors. Melatonin also slows the aging process.

Tom Fetch 1-5-2015

The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span. Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared. We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice. We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

APRICOT -Sweet

Apricots are very rich in antioxidants and offer good protection against free radical damage. They rank as a good source of vitamin A and C. Apricots contain quercetin, proanthocyanidin, catechin, epicatechin, hydroxycinnamic, gallic acid, caffeic acid, coumaric acid, and ferulic acid.

Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), carotenoids, and xanthrophylls help protect eyesight from damage and lutein protects the retina from blue light.

Vitamin C benefits are multiple and well documented.

Apricots are high in dietary fiber of which 50% consists of soluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps control cholesterol levels.

As an anti-inflammitory agent, the catechins in apricots inhibit the activity of enzyme  (COX-2) in the process of inflammation. In general catechin rich foods protect blood vessels from inflammation and help control blood pressure.

Apricots are delicious fresh or dried. Be aware of commercial drying practices of using sulfur dioxide and sulfites to extend shelf life. Sulfur containing compounds may cause reactions and sensitivity to a small percentage of people. Untreated apricots will be a darker brownish color as compared to the bright orange treated ones.

APRICOT SEED

Apricot seeds or kernels have been the heart of medical debate for decades. The kernels contain a glycoside called amygdalin, aka: laetrile, aka: B17.

Proponents claim amygdalin is very beneficial in the treatment of cancer, arthritis, hypertension and other ailments.

Treatment with amygdalin is banned in the US because of a toxic agent: cyanide. The toxin occurs when an enzyme (beta-glucuronidase) converts amygdalin to hydrogen cyanide in the small intestines. This is exacerbated by taking high doses of vitamin C and eating beta-glucosidase rich foods such as celery, carrots, bean sprouts, and peaches.

Apricot kernel extract is used to flavor the Italian liquor Amaretto and to enhance flavor of almond biscotti cookies. The oil is also used for cooking. The oil contains vitamin E, essential fatty acids and plant sterols.

Studies will continue and so will the debates. Apricots: delicious, nutritious food; effective medicine; toxic poison....do your own research on how to use this fruit.

Tom Fetch 12-19-2014

The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span. Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared. We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice. We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

We have all heard this for as long as we can remember. As it turns out, there is more truth than poetry to this old saw. As modern medicine advances, we are finding increasing evidence that we truly are 'what we eat'.  It is often much better to strengthen and fortify our immune system and whole body health than it is to try to fix a broken machine; so we circle back to a place where nutrition and medicine complement each other.

In the following series of articles I will discuss items in the L.E.Cooke Co. catalog that have medicinal as well as nutritional value. In the past 70+ years L.E. Cooke Co has focused on fruit trees with flavor. We have shunned commercial varieties that have been bred for shelf preservation (pun intended) and that ship well, but are tasteless. When the flavor is lost, so are many of the nutrients; as well as any incentive to eat it. A juicy piece of fruit with great flavor that is completely consumed definitely benefits the eater more than a hard, bland, fruit that yields one bite and a toss.

A caveat before I start: The information I am sharing is from a multitude of sources, and cultures over a wide time span. Neither L. E. Cooke Co. nor I as a representative assume any liability concerning the efficacy of the information shared. We do not suggest that any dietary protocols discussed are to replace conventional medical treatment or guarantee any results by their practice. We are nurserymen, not MDs, and proud of the trees we grow and the enhancements to life they provide.

Good nutrition is a key to good health. Foods which are rich in Vitamin C, Beta-carotene and Lycopene are known to protect DNA from damages. Research proves that these foods help in healing cancer, and strengthening auto-immune system. I will be focusing on cancer in many of my articles for a couple of reasons. The first is because of the finite implications of cancer. The second is that I feel that cancer is a manifestation of a breakdown of our immune system and its ability to fight life's stressors. By strengthening our immune system to fight cancer, we automatically battle diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and other ailments. As Hippocrates told us 2400 years ago, "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." and, "Natural forces within us are the true healers of disease."

Tom Fetch 11-3-2014

Links to detailed information:

Apple Health Benefits

Health Benefits of Apricots

Health Benefits of Apricots (UME)

Health Benefits of Cherries

Health Benefits of Jujube

Health Benefits of Mulberries

Health Benefits of Persimmons

Health Benefits of Pomegranates

Health Benefits of Nuts (Almonds, Pecasn & Walnuts)