Drink: Green Tea Granita

Recipe by Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough Any flavor of tea will work in this recipe. Brew it stronger or weaker according to your preference. Garnish this delicate dessert with wafer-thin slices of lemon.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Honey, Green Tea

Health benefits of Green Tea Granita

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Green tea has been found in recent studies to actually reverse insulin resistance, as it increases the number of glucose receptors on cells in key tissues.

Ingredients

3 cups boiling water
4 regular-sized green tea bags
1 (2-inch) piece peeled fresh ginger, quartered
1/2 cup honey
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Pour boiling water over tea bags and ginger in a medium bowl. Cover and let stand 5 minutes. Add honey and lemon juice; stir to combine. Strain tea mixture through a sieve into a bowl; discard solids. Cool completely. Pour mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish. Cover and freeze 8 hours or until firm.
Remove tea mixture from freezer; scrape entire mixture with a fork until fluffy.

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