ITHACA, N.Y. -- There is a new reason to enjoy hot cocoa on a cold winter's night in front of a cozy fire. Consider it a health drink. Beyond the froth, cocoa teems with antioxidants that prevent cancer, Cornell University food scientists say. Comparing the chemical anti-cancer activity in beverages known to contain antioxidants, they have found that cocoa has nearly twice the antioxidants of red wine and up to three times those found in green tea. From WebMD

Nov. 22, 2005 — The risk for developing diabetes is reduced with longer duration of breastfeeding, according to the results of two large cohort studies published in the Nov. 23/30 issue of JAMA. From Medscape

In about a month everyone's yards will be teeming with those pesky yellow flowers we call Dandelion (Taraxacum officianale). Before you rush to pull out all of those weeds, keep in mind that the roots (NOT the leaves, they have a more diuretic function), dried and drunk as a tea (1 tbs dried root per pint of hot water, simmered for 10 min) can aid in slow gentle detoxification. This is wonderful after the dietary excesses and more sedentary lifestyles that many partake of during the winter. It makes an excellant spring tonic if you drink it daily and aids in liver cleansing. Spring is the best time of year to do a cleanse as the liver, the body's detoxifier is the organ that is most activated according to Chinese medicine. Just remember to use only those herbs that haven't been sprayed with herbicides , pesticides, or exposed to pet waste. Those on allopathic medications should consult with a reputable health practitioner before beginning any herbal regimens.

In parts of Sicily about a third of the people eat locally grown wild vegetables three times a month or more. Men in this region have lower rates of cancer. In the USA, men who eat dark green and yellow vegetables twice a day have less heart disease and cancer (USDA). See In praise of wayside plants. From PSA Rising