Virgo (August 23 to September 22) rules the sixth house of the zodiac; the house of service, duty and health. This may seem dull and boring, but it's anything but. Ruled by Mercury, Virgo brings intelligence, communication and perfection to any gathering. Born during the time of the harvest, the Virgo native prefers whole foods and has a keen awareness of health issues and the foods that promote a healthy lifestyle. It is fitting that Virgo rules the time when vacations end and individuals return to work and school, when thoughts turn toward losing a few pounds and returning to a healthier lifestyle. Hardworking, conscientious and a stickler for detail, the Virgin can be persuaded to relax and enjoy the finer things life has to offer.

Dried Fruits
Drying is the oldest way to preserve food. This was the established method to prolong the harvest and dates back to Ancient Egypt. Drying allowed for the enjoyment of fruit all year long when the trees were barren. The flavor is intensified, so a small amount of dried fruit added to dishes is very satisfying. It is also great for a snack for all signs of the zodiac, but especially Virgos with their fondness for fruit.

Cornbread
Dating back to the Native American Indians that the first Europeans settlers dined with, cornbread is an all-American favorite. It is a quick bread that uses cornmeal and has many variations, including various flavors such as honey, molasses, cheese, jalapeno, scallions, bacon, etc. It can be made with a variety of cornmeals too, such as blue cornmeal, fine or course yellow cornmeal or white cornmeal. In the South, it is baked in a skillet. Cornbread is a good source of protein, calcium and potassium. The Virgo loves this comfort food and its healthy benefits as well.

Kale
Kale is the perfect Virgo vegetable, due to its high nutrient and phytochemical content and exceptional health-promoting benefits. Kale packs a whopping amount of calcium, lutein, iron, fiber and vitamins A, C and K per serving. It is delicious steamed, sautéed, stir-fried or in a soup or stew.

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Mulberries
Like other berries, the mulberry is an excellent source of vitamins, fiber, and flavonoids. Eating mulberries is a great way to ward off cancer, strokes, heart and vascular disease, plus the effects of aging. The health-conscious Virgo will love this vitamin powerhouse and its sweet fragrant flavor.

Mushrooms
Mushrooms date back in history for thousands of years and have been used for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. The Greeks and Romans are said to have first cultivated mushrooms for a variety of dishes, and mushrooms were revered by both cultures as a delicacy. The Greeks believed the fungi provided strength to warriors in battle, and the Romans believed them to be a gift from God that was only to be served for special festivities. The Chinese valued the mushroom for its medicinal purposes. There are thousands of varieties which come in all shapes, sizes and flavors. Virgo loves and enjoys the mushroom for both its taste and health benefits.

Oatmeal
Oatmeal is considered one of the healthiest foods due to the fact that it is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. It has cancer-fighting properties and may reduce LDL cholesterol without lowering HDL cholesterol. It is a great food for diabetics -- because of its slow digestion, it does not spike blood sugar. Oatmeal is an excellent source of vitamin E and zinc, selenium, copper, iron, manganese, magnesium and protein. Need I say more as to why this is the perfect Virgo food?

Papaya
Known as a digestive aid, the papaya contains papain, a digestive enzyme that is also used in meat tenderizer. Papaya is a very good source of vitamin A and C and is rich in carotene. It also contains argiinine, which is beneficial for male fertility, as well as carpain, which is beneficial to the heart. Many believe papaya to have rejuvenating properties and to stave off premature aging. Papaya is the wonder food for the Virgin.

Parsnips
The parsnip was brought to America in the early 1600s by European settlers. Although the most popular way to serve and eat parsnips is by baking and mashing them with butter (like a potato), they can also be roasted, steamed and sautéed. Parsnip can be used as a diuretic, and has detoxifying and cleansing benefits. It is a good source of vitamin C, folate and potassium. Virgo enjoys its sweet, nutty unusual taste.

About the Author
Sabra Ricci is a chef to the celebrities and a world-renowned caterer on the beautiful island of Maui, as well as an accomplished astrologer. She is renowned for her healthy, delectable menus. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Sabra worked in Paris for YES Catering Company and as a consultant at Grail Springs Spa in Canada. During the 2003 fashion week in New York City, Sabra was one of four chefs selected to participate in the 'Five Star Feast', a 'Chef to the Celebrities' cooking extravaganza and live demonstration hosted by Joan Lunden.