Eat

Growing up, my sister and I were vegetarians, which means we learned how to cook meals together that we could both enjoy. This sisterly bonding usually meant that we were about to indulge in a whole lot of carbs. A sodium-filled box of rice or pasta mix accompanied by a frozen vegetable, such as fake cheese sauce-drenched broccoli, was a typical go-to meal for us. So, claiming that we were cooks may be a bit of an exaggeration, but the end result was always fabulously tasty nonetheless (and rather unhealthy).

Black beans are a species of the common bean and are native to areas in Central and South America. They were brought to Europe in the 15^th century and became a major crop in India and China. Today, they are a staple in many international cuisines. Black beans are rich in nutrients and are used to prevent many diseases. Ayurveda uses black beans to regulate Pitta and Kapha doshas and recommends they be avoided by those with Vata dosha.

As someone with an Italian heritage, I feel that a richly flavored marinara sauce is a must in my household. Sure, you can buy the stuff that comes in cans and jars, but a delicious, homemade sauce is just as easy to whip up, and much more satisfying.

It may be strange to my veggie-loving self, but, apparently, some people aren’t too fond of the goods that are good for you. Some people grew up not wanting anything to do with the stuff, and continue to be less than enthused by fruits and/or vegetables, even into adulthood. If you’re one of these people, I’m happy to share a few ways to incorporate more fruits and veggies into your meals that just might convert you into a plant-based food fanatic.

If you think your pancreas is not particularly important, think again. A healthy pancreas is essential for a healthy digestion; so here’s what to eat to make your pancreas function at its optimum…

Honey is not only a delicious sweetener, it has long been used for its medicinal properties. Not all honey, however, is the same. Harvesting methods, as wells as the source of honey itself, determines the potency of effectiveness when it comes to healing powers. One of the most effective in the honey world is Manuka honey.

Although conventional electrolyte drinks, otherwise known as sports drinks, seem innocent enough, their ingredients are not. Most of them contain a lot of unnecessary chemicals like food coloring, artificial flavors, and processed sugars. The main purpose of electrolyte dinks is hydration, replenishing electrolytes, and energizing the body.  These drinks are great to have with you during sweaty workouts.

Lemons are amazing.  What other fruit possesses the power to add an unmatchable zing to a variety of dishes ranging from salad dressing to fish to cake; cleans pots and pans; and also alleviates the symptoms of a common cold?

I’ve always loved to bake. During summertime, I’d bake nearly every day, out of sheer boredom. The problem was that once my older brother and sister had moved out of the house, there weren’t many people left to devour all of the tasty treats. So, I had to come up with a solution because I cannot watch things go to waste, and the calories were bound to catch up with me sooner or later; I mean I was pretty active, but definitely not that active.

Flaxseeds have been cultivated in the Mediterranean basin as far back as 4000 B.C.E. There is evidence that man has been eating flaxseed as far back as the Neolithic Era. Flaxseed is comprised of flavorful meat which is packed with oil and has many nutritional and healing benefits. The non-food grade flaxseed oil is known as linseed oil, which is used commercially in paints and wood finishes. Flaxseed is used in livestock feed and is grown throughout the world.