Fish Oil
We received a donation of Omega-3 supplements which we have been distributing during events. Omega-3 fatty acids sort of took health pop-culture by storm in the late 1980s. The idea that they are good for you is part of a growing body of evidence concerning the health benefits of certain fats, as they have been vilified through much of the 20th century. However, like most health fads, there is still much to be learned. Proponents claim a multitude of benefits, including prevention of cancer, heart disease, inflammation, and even mental disorders. Though some of the data is inconclusive, we do know that Omega-3 fatty acids are an essential part of human nutritional needs. Also, considering the typical American Diet lacks natural Omega-3 sources, namely fish and certain grains, it doesn't hurt to cover your bases. And when it's free with instructions in 3 languages (thanks Amena!) what excuse do you have? It's lemon-flavored for gods sake!
Why Zucchini?
"It's mushy when cooked." "It doesn't taste like anything." There are way too many!" These are some complains I hear from friends and family when I try to unload a ton of zucchini on them. Another qualm? It's not even the most nutritious vegetable you can grow. So... why grow it? Because it's simple, prolific, and hardy. Three things you want in a plant growing in what is basically a desert. I recommend zucchini to our first time gardeners because growing things that might be more exciting often lead to frustration and failure (been there). I see it differently, it's a great vessel for flavor and has incredible culinary versatility, not to mention all that dietary fiber and the fact it uses very little water. Sometimes simple is better... and zucchini rhymes with genie, which I find pretty amusing.
Pomegranates
The majestic pomegranate... Full of history, strength, and flavor. Not to mention nutrition. It's an antioxidant powerhouse. I must say I am biased towards this ancient fruit, having grown up with a 100+ year old specimen in my childhood home, one that never retired from the antioxidant-making game. I admire the plant for it's sheer toughness. It requires so little water that, in fact, watering more than once a week can be detrimental. And, as the investors of POM Wonderful, LLC know, it grows fantastically in California. We recently planted a couple at the garden, a Red Silk variety and a stem graft of the same beautiful tree I grew up with! We should see some fruit in a year or two. It's been suggested the forbidden fruit in the biblical story of Adam and Eve was actually a juicy pomegranate, which is much more tempting than an apple don't you think?