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BEACON Senior News - Western Colorado

7 reasons salsa is “muy buena” for your health

Apr 28, 2023 02:04PM ● By Suzy Cohen

Send us your best salsa recipes!

Email your recipe and instructions to: [email protected]

Whether it’s red or green salsa, pineapple salsa or cabbage salsa, send us your best salsa recipe for a chance to win gift cards and cash prizes! We'll follow your recipe to a T as we recreate each one, then we'll taste it, rate it and publish our favorites (along with photos) in the August issue. 

Our judges will select the top winner in each category:

Best Overall Salsa: $100 cash
Best Vegetable Salsa (red, green, even cabbage salsa!): $25 Gift Card
Best Fruit Salsa (pineapple, peach, mango, etc): $25 Gift Card

Entries due by June 15, 2023!

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7 reasons salsa is "muy buena" for your health

Salsa is a powerhouse of nutrition that can help improve your overall health. This low-calorie and low-fat condiment is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Additionally, its ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

If you want to eat healthy at a Mexican restaurant, salsa is an excellent snack as long as you can keep your chip consumption under control. Better yet, substitute chips for vegetables. You can also add salsa as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or add it to salads and soups. This Mexican favorite is a versatile and healthier alternative to high-sugar or high-sodium condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise or barbecue sauce.

Here’s a list of the seven basic ingredients used in most salsas and a breakdown of their health benefits.

1. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants like lycopene, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

2. Onions contain antioxidants and sulfur compounds that may help lower blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

3. Chili peppers like jalapeño or serrano contain capsaicin, which may help boost metabolism, reduce inflammation and improve digestive health. This means that salsa can add flavor to your meals and help manage pain and inflammation.

4. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have antibacterial properties. It may also help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. 

5. Garlic has been shown to reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol ratios, boost immune function and help with both H. pylori and methane-dominant SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

6. Lime juice is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which may help boost immune function and reduce inflammation.

7. While too much salt can be harmful, a moderate amount is important for regulating fluid balance, muscle function and nerve function.

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious condiment, look no further. Salsa’s nutrient-packed ingredients and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great addition to any healthy diet. It can also help you manage your weight, as it makes you feel full for longer.


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