Home Economics.

It seems there never is "enough time" to get our meals prepared correctly to get the proper nutrients that our bodies need. However, it is possible to make sensible healthy meals in just a few minutes. The first thing(s) I emphasize as a must have in every kitchen is glassware not plastic tupperware. From water bottles to the lining of food tins, the chemical BPA is present in most plastics. BPA is what’s known as a suspected endocrine disruptor this basically means it can mimic the body’s hormone system and potentially create reproductive health problems, with possible links to cancer. So, people add some class and get some glass!
The whole idea in having glassware is so that you can prepare food and store it for a couple of days. How great would it be to actually still enjoy a healthy meal that you know how, when and who prepared it. Having enough food prepared for a couple of days can save you money ( for some glassware!) In comparison to eating out on a day to day basis which can drain your wallet, lead to poor eating choices and sometimes not worth the experience.

Eating healthy does not have to be a challenge and does not need to be costly. There is a difference between eating and being hungry. Try to start your day with breakfast in your stomach. It is definitely the most important meal of the day and gets the wheels turning. Limit your meals to three balanced meals. Snack sensibly, drink water, avoid unnecessary salt and sugar as most foods already own these properties naturally, Importantly stay hydrated! The human adult body is made up of 55-60% water. Incorporate some exercise even something as simple as walking is great extender of life! Smile and laugh more it reduces calories and relaxes the muscles of the face.

Even though all foods are important, I have a list of foods that I hold up on a pedestal because of how much our bodies benefit from them. The three main basic vegetables that are easily accessible and affordable year round are collard greens, red onions, and tomatoes. All vegetables are good for you unless of course you have allergic reactions or simply just do not like the taste. In those instances you can find a way to make the vegetables more appealing to your pallet example: use variety of spices and get creative. Remember the more green leafy vegetables you eat the better!


Sunday, February 5, 2012

FOOD FACTS

INJERA (Ethiopian Bread) is gluten free.  

Half an ONION a day could reduce the risk of stomach cancer by 50%. 

SOY is a hidden ingredient found in many processed foods. It is used to extend fast food hamburgers, added to most supermarket breads and found in most dry kibble pet foods, premium brands as well. You will find even higher levels of soy in the foods in health food stores, where it is promoted as a heart-healthy, cancer-preventing, menopause-alleviating ingredient.

MANGOES are a rich source of antioxidants such as quercetin, which helps protect against allergies and respiratory problems, vitamin A which promotes healthy lungs, intestines and overall immunity. They also contain enzymes that assist in digestion and bowel cleansing. They are a good source of iron, potassium, magnesium and tryptophan which the body can convert to the mood hormone serotonin. 
  
SWEET POTATO are beneficial for the eyes and lungs as well as providing support for the immune system. The sweetness come from easily digestible sugars, which make them a good source of energy. The easy digestibility means they are good for any inflammation in the gut including ulcers.

LENTILS & BEANS have a reputation for inducing wind but they also have benefits. They contain folic acid, which helps lower the chemical homocysteine, high levels of which are linked to Heart disease, Alzheimer's and Depression. They are a dense source of fiber, protein and minerals. To reduce their wind potential, soak well before cooking then use fresh water to boil.

AVOCADO is easy to digest and the high fat content means that it is broken down slowly which is useful for diabetics. It is a rich source of potassium which is essential for healthy blood pressure, muscle contraction and nerve messaging. 

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LOVE AND LISTEN TO YOUR BODY.