Lyla Feldman asked:


 

Since we can’t stop the aging process, are there any foods we can consume in order to maintain our health and beauty longer? The answer is “yes.” There are numerous foods which promote healthy aging and longevity. So what are these magical foods and how exactly do they work?

One of these magical foods is olive oil. This particular product has been around forever and numerous studies have confirmed its health benefits. For instance, the people of the Greek islands of Crete have been consuming olive oil for centuries. Numerous studies have shown that those people have very low rates of heart disease. This particular product is rich in mono-saturated fats and polyphenols, both of which protect the body from heart disease and other heart related illnesses. Another age healthy food is fish. Fish also promotes heart health because it is rich in omega 3 fats. The omega 3 fats prevent cholesterol buildup, prevent abnormal heart rhythm, and numerous other heart related illnesses. A study has been completed on the Native Inuit’s of Alaska who ate mostly fish and as a result of their diet they were completely free of heart disease.

Blueberries are the third age healthy food. Blueberries are responsible for maintaining a healthy balance and concentration as we age. They also have the capability of lessening inflammation and oxidative damage. For those people who don’t know, oxidative damage is associated with age related deficits in memory and in motor function. So by consuming blueberries, we are improving our memory, our balance, our reaction time, and our coordination. All of these age healthy foods are easily attainable and delicious. So why wouldn’t we want to make our future healthier and brighter by consuming more of these age defying foods.

Josef Mack asked:


We’ve all heard the cliche you are what you eat. In the computer industry they say: GIGO garbage in - garbage out. You’re probably asking yourself what this has to do with health. That is a fair question and here is the answer - EVERYTHING.

Our bodies are complex organisms. They are composed of trillions of cells which combine in their unique way to produce you and me, and the billions of other people on our planet. If you look at any process that produces or manufactures a machine you will find that the finished product is a reflection of what went into the making and maintaining of the machine.

I don’t think anyone out there would change the oil in their vehicle with used oil. Would anyone make a new batch of french fries with last weeks grease? We all know better. So why is it when it comes to our bodies we continue to insert junk?

Don’t get me wrong. I am not trying to bash the fast food industry or anyone else for that matter. Just look at reality. If you put something in your mouth, that element becomes part of you in some way, shape or form. Some of those cells stay with you, maybe for a lifetime. Many of us have no clue what these substances can or will do to us. I remember hearing how healthy the Asians were as a race. Now look at their newer generations growing up on fast food. They are clearly not as healthy as their ancestors.

If you can’t pronounce an ingredient, or if you don’t know exactly what it is then, why would you put it into your body? Even if one element is ok, who has done the research to know how it will interact with all the hundreds or thousands of other elements we consume regularly?

You may say “Show me the data”. That is also a fair statement and if I did have the proof I would probably be writing in a medical journal and be blasted by all the junk food lobbyists who are trying to protect their profits. The truth is there is also no data showing that these elements are healthy and will not cause potential problems. Our health organizations do what they can. My question for each of us is “Why take the risk”?

Sure, one polyunsaturated hydrogenated slab of whatever probably won’t kill me. But if I take one today, another next week, then a few more the next day, it all adds up. The question each one of us needs to ask ourselves is this: Why take the chance?

Do you want to live a long life? The obvious answer is yes, but are you doing what it takes to live a long healthy life? That is a key point. While I want to live a long life, I want to be healthy all the way to the end.

There was a character in Greek mythology who won a bet with one of the god’s. The character got immortality, but the god played a trick on him: while he would be immortal he also grew old and decrepit. He forgot to ask for a youthful body at the same time.

The choice is in our hands. Are we worth the few extra dollars to be healthy, or are we only interested in the immediate gratification of our food choices tasting good? Remember not everything that tastes good is good for you. The choice is in your hands. Make it wisely.

Anne Harvester asked:


Laissez les bontemps roulez (“let the good times roll) with bulk spices! Your cajun spices cost less when you buy those spices in bulk, because you get generous volume discounts! Bulk spices mean variety as well as economy.

Go With Organic Spices

While bulk spices mean volume discounts and substantial cost savings, bulk organic spices means you are assured of top quality cajun seasonings and other spices and herbs that are free of chemical adulterants as well as petroleum fertilizers and pesticides. Remember that insects are much tougher than humans; therefore, whatever will kill insects is in all probability none too healthy for you!

In order to be certified as such, organic spices and other produce must be grown on farms that meet rigorous standards. The laws governing organic produce vary from one country to another. In the U.S., these standards are enforced at the state level by public and private agencies that have ideally been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Farmers who raise bulk organic spices for sale must keep copious records and documentation and submit to year audits by these agencies in order to be able to sell their products as “organic.”

A World Of Taste

A variety of bulk spices means a healthful way to had variety and exotic tastes to simple everyday foods and drinks. Greek ouzo is a liqueur that is flavored with anise, which is an ingredient of licorice; chai from India is a delightful form of black tea that contains cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger and sometimes even black pepper; traditionally served hot with milk and honey, it is also an ideal thirst quencher when served cold over ice.

Economy

If you are a business person who owns and operates a delicatessen or restaurant, you know how food costs can literally eat into your profit margins. Wholesale bulk dried herbs and spices can really ease the strain on your operating budget while organic spices can help your kitchen staff in offering the tastiest and healthiest dishes in town.

While it’s possible to re-create almost any national cuisine with a few basic bulk organic spices, there are some variations within these categories. Thai basil is ideal for the exotic dishes of Bangkok, but for Genovese pesto, you’ll probably want to use the Mediterranean variety.

Some

bulk spices are basic to almost every cuisine in the world – primarily salt, black pepper and garlic. Low per-unit prices on wholesale bulk spices will enable you to keep those staples in stock for those times and dishes that you need them. Check out the great deals to be had on bulk spices today!

Bariatric Food Products asked:


Who ever said that dieting and eating healthy had to be boring? Certainly not the group over at Bariatric Food Products, who’s owners Gene Carbonell and Jan Chadwick have developed 4 outstanding new recipes featuring the very bariatric-friendly products they sell on their online store.

The following recipes, in addition to the many others featured on their website, combine bariatric approved foods and other natural, fresh foods to create new and exciting ways to prepare meals, drinks, desserts, and snacks. The idea is to simply provide dieters and post-bariatric surgery patients with some flexibility in their diets. These recipes also allow dieters to keep their diet interesting and exciting… something, as most of us already know, is very difficult to do.

Without further ado, here are 4 exciting recipes for dieters and post bariatric surgery patients:

Wildberry Sparkler

Our first recipe is a beverage called “Wildberry Sparkler”. A wildberry sparkler is a fruity tasting drink that is not only a healthy, refreshing choice for a lunch or dinner beverage, but one that is also post-bariatric surgery friendly.

To make a wildberry sparkler, combine 1 packet of Wildberry Drink Mix with your choice of either 8 ounces of diet 7-up soda or diet seltzer into a blender. Blend on low for 10 seconds, and then serve over ice. You may garnish the beverage with a fresh mint if you desire.

Nutritional Information for Wildberry Sparkler

Calories: 100

Protein: 15g

Carbohydrates: 7g

Fat: 1.5g

Sweet Potato and Fruit Fritters

Our second recipe is for a super sweet dish called “Sweet Potato and Fruit Fritters”. Yum! While this dish promises to be absolutely delicious, it also promises to be both diet-friendly and post-bariatric surgery approved.

To make this dish, combine 1 package of Vanilla Creme Pudding, a 1/2 cup of cooked mashed sweet potato (canned sweet potato works great too), a 1/2 of a mashed banana, 2 tablespoons of crushed pineapple, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg into a mixing bowl. Mix ingredients and then flatten batter into 5 patties. On medium heat, cook each patty in a frying pan until golden brown and crisp. Top with artificial sweetener or sugar-free maple syrup, and serve.

Nutrition Information for Sweet Potato and Fruit Fritters:

(per serving)

Calories: 216

Protein: 14g

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fat: 3g

Creamy Spinach Chicken

Our third recipe is for a hearty and healthy entrée called “Creamy Spinach Chicken”. This rich creamy chicken and garden vegetable combination is ideal for lunch or dinner, and is both diet and post-bariatric surgery friendly.

This recipe starts off with bringing 4 ounces of water to a boil and adding in 1 package of Cream of Chicken Soup with Vegetables, your choice of either 1 cup pre-cooked frozen leaf spinach or broccoli, and an 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir well. Once ideal consistency has been reached, pour sauce mixture over 2 ounces of pre-cooked, boneless chicken breast.

Nutritional Information for Creamy Spinach Chicken

Calories: 202

Protein: 34g

Carbohydrates: 13g

Fat: 2.5g

Fiber: 5g

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Surprise

Our last recipe is an absolute fantastic dessert called “Chocolate Covered Pretzel Surprise”… a dessert so wonderful tasting that you’ll have convinced yourself that you’ve cheated on your diet. Don’t worry though, before sentencing yourself to the corner for a timeout, rest assured that this recipe is both diet and post-bariatric surgery friendly.

We start this recipe with 1 packet of Chocolate Pudding with Marshmallows and Chocolate Chips. Prepare the pudding according to the package directions. When finished, open up a package of Pretzel Twists and proceed with dipping each pretzel into the prepared pudding and then placing it on a sheet of wax paper. Then, freeze your chocolate covered pretzels for 40 minutes, and serve.

Nutritional Information for Chocolate Covered Pretzel Surprise

(per recipe (15-20 pretzels per package)

Calories: 200

Protein: 24g

Carbohydrates: 16 g

Fat: 4 g

Fiber: 5 g

For more information on Bariatric Food Products.com or on the products and services that are offered, please visit the Bariatric Food Products.com website at http://www.bariatricfoodproducts.com or call Gene Carbonell and Jan Chadwick at (678) 398-0330.

Ian asked:


You might have found lots of databases on Italian cooking through the Internet and be excited about trying to delve into the world of parmagiana, pesto, and pasta.

It would be useful to have on hand some basic ingredients that are found in lots of Italian cooking. By that way, you will be able to serve your Italian food most days without having to do an extensive grocery shop.

Lets look at the ingredients that you need to have in your grocery list.

Garlic: This may sound like a cliché to you, but this modest bulb has its own place in all Italian kitchens. Keep garlic in a dry and cool place, such as a pantry or root cellar. Look for bulbs with no discoloration on the bottom when buying garlic as these discolorations indicate moulding and age.

Tomato Sauce: You do not have to buy the expensive tomato sauce. The national brand or house brand at your nearby local grocery store will be fine in your Italian dish. Local made tomato sauce does not affect the taste of your Italian cooking. Try not to buy from the “pre-seasoned” blends, as you will be adding your own spices and herbs.

Pasta: Do not buy a huge quantity of any one specific pasta. It is preferable to keep a little amount of the most regular types such as wide egg noodle, large and small shells, elbow macaroni, linguine and spaghetti. It will be good if you have storage so that you can keep the long noodles in a long container. Moreover, you can find many tuppaware makers that are specially design to keep the pasta in to maintain freshness.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly ground Parmesan cheese is always a welcome addition to the top of any Italian dish even though it may not always be needed in the ingredients of the Italian recipe you are cooking. The famous cheese brand, Kraft, has a new product with a block of cheese in its container along with its grater. The price is not expensive and it works very well with Italian cooking.

Olive oil: One of the mistakes that many Italian food amateurs make is using pricey olive oil for things like pan-frying. Using the standard olive oil, which is yellow in colour is just fine for this.

Keep these ingredients well stocked and you will be ready and prepared to cook any Italian dish.

Dr John Anne asked:


Food plays an important role in managing the cholesterol level in your body. Apart from a well-managed lifestyle or proper medication, it is mandatory that you switch to fat-free, cholesterol-free healthy diet to manage the level of cholesterol. If you are suffering from high blood cholesterol problem, quite obviously you are having a high level of LDL; then you should consider about three important factors concerning your selection about food to lower cholesterol. These three factors are - saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol. It is advisable that you make your meal absolutely free from these three diet components.

Or else, at least limit the intake of these three diet components. This article enlightens you on the important food to lower cholesterol level in your body. You may add any of the following foods to your diet to manage your blood cholesterol.

Beans, Peas and Lentil

This is an appropriate food to lower cholesterol level. Beans, peas, and lentils consist of high soluble fiber, which effectively manages cholesterol level in your body. You can always prepare a colorful salad dishes using these nutritional substances, and keep yourself and your loved ones healthy. Apart from that, you may eat apples, carrots, barely, and oats to fulfill the need of soluble fiber.

Soy

It contains high protein. Isoflavones, naturally found in Soy products are believed to mimic the role of hormones that help in regulating cholesterol level in the body. If you really care about lowering your cholesterol level, it is a must that you take a minimum of 25gms of soy proteins as a part of your daily diet. You may take soy yogurt, soy burgers, ground soy, soy nuts, soy milk, tofu, and tempeh in your regular diet

Fish

Fish is an ideal food to lower cholesterol level. It meets the demands for omega 3, which is beneficial for lowering high blood cholesterol. It especially provides protection against LDL cholesterol. Omega 3 fatty acids are commonly found in mackerel, salmon, herring, sardines, tuna, and halibut. Fishes are the perfect option for getting omega 3, but you may also opt in walnuts, flax seeds, or almonds, to have the same benefits.

Olive Oil

Mono-saturated fats can effectively lower the level of high blood cholesterol, especially ‘bad’ or LDL one. It has the ability to raise the amount of HDL cholesterol in the system. Olive oil is rich with mono-saturated fat. Hence, you can switch to this wonderful food to lower cholesterol, especially while cooking or preparing salads.

Flax seed

Flax seed is a perfect food to lower cholesterol level. It constitutes high protein, soluble fiber and omega 3 fatty acids. It consists of useful component called lignans. Lignans offers protection against cardiovascular problems by means of lowering LDL cholesterol level. Apart from that, it is assumed that flax seed has the ability to fight against few types of cancer like breast and colon cancer. It also helps protecting body from diabetes.

Garlic

Garlic is known as kitchen’s pride. Its medicinal property is highly respected among different cultures for several hundreds of years. It has the ability to fight against different cardiovascular diseases such as high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure. According to the results found in different scientific studies, garlic helps lowering cholesterol level. Garlic has two compounds, known as allin and allicin. These two compounds are assumed to intrude with the cholesterol metabolism function in the liver. Additionally, garlic also regulates the amount of cholesterol released in the blood stream.

Vitamin C and E

These two vitamins are well known for their anti-oxidizing property. They can help minimize the level of cholesterol in the body. The primary sources for deriving vitamin C are cabbage, oranges, potatoes, peppers, kiwi, and strawberries. On the other hand, for having vitamin E in your diet, you can easily depend on various healthy foods such as avocados, broccoli, mangoes, Brazilian seeds, peanuts, almonds, and sunflower seeds.

Martin Lukac asked:


Organically grown foods can provide sufficient minerals to our diets. Organic foods include our whole-wheat flour, steel-cut oats, unpolished rice, and many other organic foods contain many times more vital minerals than refined counterparts do. Honey, maple syrup, dried fruits, as well as other healthy organic dishes can provide vital minerals as well as iron and copper, which are saturated with minerals.

Our body is made up of proteins, minerals, acids, fats and so on. Our body expects natural, organic nutrients so that we can live healthier.

Many of the fabricated products on the market include harsh ingredients. For instance, our meats now have additives that encourage us to eat more. This can lead to health problems. Therefore, organic grown foods will protect our body, since we do not have the additives in the foods that can cause bad health, obesity and so on.

Whole-wheat flour for example does not have additives and it serves to heal us, restore our health and to encourage healthy minds. This is because the flour is naturally and was purposely created and grown by our creator.

Minerals give us raw materials from natural resources. These mineral deposits help to reserve our body and health. We need minerals to support our bones, joints, cartilages and so on.

Maple syrups come from the deciduous trees that have winged seeds. These trees grow in northern temperate areas. The leaves divide into appealing seeds, colorful and winged. Maple has a natural sugar and flavor when processed. The sugars come from the saps.

We also get a natural or organic source of vitamins from homegrown foods. Leafy green foods are a great source of fiber. Fibers are found in lettuce and cabbage. We have a nice source of Vitamin A or Retinol. This organic need is in our natural fat dairy, watercress, margarines, peppers, spinach, carrots, etc. Retinol is a great source to help us with our night vision, bone growth, skin, and so on. These products have precursors known as beta-carotene, which is a great organic dish for fighting cancer.

From organic nuts, we get Vitamin B1, and Vitamin B3. Our body needs these nutrients to encourage metabolism by breaking carbohydrates down. Certain organic nuts encourage healthy skin, nervous system growth, and metabolism and so on. We also get these vitamins from organic breads, peanuts, mushrooms, yeast extracts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, bran, Brazilian organic nuts, oatmeal and so on.

Organic grown food is becoming popular. People are starting to realize that our intended natural processes are the best solution to maintain our health and youth. Eating organic means, using organic soaps, shampoos, and so on will encourage a healthy life.

Robert asked:


There are very little natural products that are able to deliver not only maximum nutritional value but also health related benefits that can impact in a positive way the functions of a person’s metabolic system. The metabolic system is key when we try to explain the reason why a person is able to eat so much and yet remain so skinny and can also provide several answers and very good theories about the reasons why some people who barely touch their food gain weight almost uncontrollably.

From time to time we hear about natural compounds and ingredients that are found in plants, roots and even flowers in remote countries of the world that may be able to positively impact the metabolic process which can help people lose weight in a more healthy manner and at the same time eliminate the toxins that are obviously not good for our bodies.

Toxins

These are chemical compounds which can prove to be poisonous to living tissue, ironically these substances are produced by living working organisms or cells but, the amount that is produced and the intensity of the toxins is not as high as those produced by external agents.  A high concentration of toxins can effectively cripple the functions of living tissue, when it comes to the human body the only positive remark that we can make in regards to toxins is that they can be cleansed from our system.

The Many benefits of Acai

This Brazilian food is one of the reasons why we hear about more and more about preserving the rainforest, this exotic berry past a high concentration of antioxidants which are well above any other fruit or berry that has been studied until today, the natural substances found in this product are able to slow down the aging process by providing all the nutrients needed for healthy cellular activity.

The presence of toxins in our body can only help the oxidation process accelerate, oxidation has been linked to many of the degenerative diseases known today, and some of them include: Cancer, Cataracts, cardiovascular diseases and even the aging process.  Taking these facts in consideration which can only conclude that in order to reduce the effect of toxins and oxidation we must consume natural products which are able to deliver a high amount of antioxidants in order to avoid diseases and detoxify our system.

Acai is known for having weight above levels of antioxidants and nutrients that can help a person loose weight, have more energy and effectively reduce the effects of toxins which trigger oxidation.  Additional benefits of consuming this exotic fruit include:

– Improves the digestive system

– Cleanses and removes body toxins

– Helps burn extra calories

– Strengthens the immune system

– Improves circulation

– Alleviates the symptoms of diabetes

– It possesses active viral and antibacterial agents

With so many benefits, more and more people have turned to this Brazilian miracle in order to detoxify their bodies and experience the many benefits that this superfood can provide.

Martin Lukac asked:


Organically grown foods can provide sufficient minerals to our diets. Organic foods include our whole-wheat flour, steel-cut oats, unpolished rice, and many other organic foods contain many times more vital minerals than refined counterparts do. Honey, maple syrup, dried fruits, as well as other healthy organic dishes can provide vital minerals as well as iron and copper, which are saturated with minerals.

Our body is made up of proteins, minerals, acids, fats and so on. Our body expects natural, organic nutrients so that we can live healthier.

Many of the fabricated products on the market include harsh ingredients. For instance, our meats now have additives that encourage us to eat more. This can lead to health problems. Therefore, organic grown foods will protect our body, since we do not have the additives in the foods that can cause bad health, obesity and so on.

Whole-wheat flour for example does not have additives and it serves to heal us, restore our health and to encourage healthy minds. This is because the flour is naturally and was purposely created and grown by our creator.

Minerals give us raw materials from natural resources. These mineral deposits help to reserve our body and health. We need minerals to support our bones, joints, cartilages and so on.

Maple syrups come from the deciduous trees that have winged seeds. These trees grow in northern temperate areas. The leaves divide into appealing seeds, colorful and winged. Maple has a natural sugar and flavor when processed. The sugars come from the saps.

We also get a natural or organic source of vitamins from homegrown foods. Leafy green foods are a great source of fiber. Fibers are found in lettuce and cabbage. We have a nice source of Vitamin A or Retinol. This organic need is in our natural fat dairy, watercress, margarines, peppers, spinach, carrots, etc. Retinol is a great source to help us with our night vision, bone growth, skin, and so on. These products have precursors known as beta-carotene, which is a great organic dish for fighting cancer.

From organic nuts, we get Vitamin B1, and Vitamin B3. Our body needs these nutrients to encourage metabolism by breaking carbohydrates down. Certain organic nuts encourage healthy skin, nervous system growth, and metabolism and so on. We also get these vitamins from organic breads, peanuts, mushrooms, yeast extracts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, bran, Brazilian organic nuts, oatmeal and so on.

Organic grown food is becoming popular. People are starting to realize that our intended natural processes are the best solution to maintain our health and youth. Eating organic means, using organic soaps, shampoos, and so on will encourage a healthy life.

Mellisa asked:


Sodium causes you to retain water – which is not ideal if you’re on a diet. Eating habits must be adjusted to reduce your salt intake for dieting success, and for a healthy heart.

Diet, eating, salt and sodium are all considerations for a healthy heart. The sodium your body in takes during your diet eating habits causes water retention. Dieters must give special attention to water retention in order to meet their weight-loss goals. However, even non-dieters should be concerned with the water retention that comes from eating high sodium foods. Water retention causes high blood pressure because of the burden it puts on the heart and blood vessels. And as most dieters and non-dieters know, high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. A healthy diet, eating low-sodium foods, exercise and drinking plenty of water are the best ways to meet your weight loss goals, keep your water retention low, and keep your heart healthy and you happy.

Ironically, drinking more water best reduces water retention. That’s why many diet eating plans suggesting drinking more water. Drinking more water but continuing to eat foods high in sodium isn’t going to help your weight loss plans, or your diet. Eating a low-sodium diet doesn’t mean your food has to be tasteless and cutting out all salt in your diet. Eating food cooked with non-alcoholic wine, lemon and fruit juice can liven up meats, gravies and vegetables. Meats and sandwiches can be spiced up with low-fat spicy mustards or low-fat mayonnaise mixed with dill, tarragon, chipolte, Cajun or chili flavoring. There are hundreds of no-salt substitutes available that can make your eating so enjoyable you’ll love your low-salt diet.

Reading the label on the spices and the foods you choose is an important part of your low-salt diet. Eating foods that contain less than 200mg of sodium per serving is a must. Steer clear of eating foods with 400mg per serving. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends 2,300mg of sodium in your diet per day. However, for people already suffering from high-blood pressure, middle-aged and older people, and blacks, the AHA recommends only 1,500mg per day. Most of the sodium in your diet is in food. Baked goods contribute to one-third of our salt intake, and the average American consumes around 2,900mg to 4,300mg of sodium per day in their diet. Even if you’re not at risk for high blood pressure, a low-sodium diet is beneficial to weight loss and prevention. Nine out of ten Americans will have high blood pressure in their lifetime according to John Hopkins University.

Diet, eating, salt and sodium habits must be evaluated and considered for successful weight loss, low blood pressure, a healthy heart, and healthy eating. Diets such as the Atkins Weight Loss Program that minimize baked good intake, and require eight glass of water a day, have successfully incorporated a low-sodium diet together with their advice on how to lose weight. Healthy diet eating requires a low-sodium diet. The Atkins diet is a good example of a healthy start to a healthy heart. Lose salt and lose weight – and you’ll shake up your diet to have a healthier heart and a happier you.