Today is Mardi Gras if you're in New Orleans and Carnavale if you're in Europe and South America. It's a night of wild drinking and feasting - because tomorrow is Ash Wednesday. It's Lent and that means giving up the drinks and foods we love. Or will we?
Lent is the period of fasting between Ash Wednesday and Easter. It's always a time of giving up. The practice started centuries ago as a way to extend the amount of vital products such as meat and dairy for the community. Some Christian religions like the Greek , Russian and Coptic Orthodoxy have strict fasting days when only vegetables are allowed. Everything else, from eggs to wine, meat to fish are strictly forbidden. The Catholics have relaxed the fasting rules tremendously and only two days , Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are restricted to total fasting. Then there's the practice of giving up one food or habit that you love. Many go for the first , not wanting to cut back on cigarettes or alcohol. Some do go dry for Lent, which is relatively easy. There are mocktails, made with fresh juice and seltzer and non alcoholic ciders and beers. Yet it can be hard, especially after a long hard day or week. A lot of people are into a glass of wine a day. It relaxes them, and helps them get through a rough period of hard work and bratty kids.It would be hard to give that up especially if someone does have a difficult life.
If you thought giving up a margarita or a Pinot Grigio for forty days is hard, then feel sorry for those that give up anything sugary.We're hardwired to eat sugar since our Neanderthal days. It was our way of discerning what was safe for us to eat (namely naturally sweet things such as non-poisonous berries and fruits). Yet unlike alcohol, sweet , sugary things are all around us. Can we really walk into our grocery stores and completely ignore those displays of freshly baked cupcakes and cookies? What about the cookie or candy aisle that's like an altar to our food desires? Lent is a good time to give those up and head on to the fruit section. An apple is just as sweet and satisfying as an Oreo, yet, there's something about that cookie and others that make us feel happy - especially after a rough day. The same philosophy with candy. Yes, those blueberries are fun to pop into our mouths but so are M&M's. Can we give up those? Maybe - but not for forty days. Ice cream is another food to give up. You can, there are ways around it, namely having Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup mixed in. This is a really good sub and healthy for you too. Still, it's a hard sell, especially with the wide variety of tempting iced treats out there.
Can we stick to our Lenten promises? The only answer is try.The best bet is see how long you can do it. Maybe you can this year.
Showing posts with label fasting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fasting. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 25, 2020
Monday, August 26, 2019
Authentic Health A Guide To A New You
This is the time for transitions.We're changing our diets, We're changing our easy , summer days for weeks and weekends of non stop activity.It's a perfect time then for a better lifestyle. Can it be done? Yes, thanks to a new book.
Dr. Gus Vickery has written a new how to book, Authentic Health: The Definitive Guide (Morgan James Publishing 2019).Dr. Vickery, who is an MD with a family practice in Georgia, believes that it's self modification and will that can change a person's life - and diet.His ideas do resonate but I feel that he may be jumping on the latest diet fad - fasting.A normal fast, from night to breakfast is fine by extending it to lunch can be distracting and hurtful. Read this chapter with caution.Embrace the other recommendations and chapter. What is excellent about the book is Dr. Vickery is also a doctor which means he includes chapters on physiology. They help readers understand how the body works and how it sends messages, letting us know when we're on and off track health wise.Another excellent chapter is on sleep and getting the proper amount of it. This is the one to read,especially with the upcoming season and our addiction to our devices and late nights. Another must read is the one on getting out and actually playing - whether golf or just for a swim. Type A types may want to
Since this is a diet book, there are chapters devoted to what to eat. There are no recipes save for
a smoothie recipe.Dr. Vickery does have a list which is broken down into three categories.There are proteins, oils and fats and oils.Recipes can be created by taking a protein like chicken then mixing it with kale and spinach.Use a fat like grass fed butter or ghee along with spices to cook with . The doctor prefers and strongly advised buying organic meats.Some dairy is allowed such as cream cheese, surprisingly , along with whole fat Greek yogurt and milk. He also emphasizes the need for fiber and omega fatty 3s.Its not just for fish for the last. You can also sub in leafy green veggies too. There is the usual warnings against soda and alcohol. He does approve of tea and coffee because both can be ingested in moderation. Just stay away from sugar, use honey instead along with vanilla and cinnamon.Wheat is taboo but if you feel like having pasta occasionally do so.
Changing your habits for a better life is a great idea.Use Dr. Vickery's book to do so. Authentic Health The Definitive Guide is your transformation go to for a healthier diet and lifestyle.
Dr. Gus Vickery has written a new how to book, Authentic Health: The Definitive Guide (Morgan James Publishing 2019).Dr. Vickery, who is an MD with a family practice in Georgia, believes that it's self modification and will that can change a person's life - and diet.His ideas do resonate but I feel that he may be jumping on the latest diet fad - fasting.A normal fast, from night to breakfast is fine by extending it to lunch can be distracting and hurtful. Read this chapter with caution.Embrace the other recommendations and chapter. What is excellent about the book is Dr. Vickery is also a doctor which means he includes chapters on physiology. They help readers understand how the body works and how it sends messages, letting us know when we're on and off track health wise.Another excellent chapter is on sleep and getting the proper amount of it. This is the one to read,especially with the upcoming season and our addiction to our devices and late nights. Another must read is the one on getting out and actually playing - whether golf or just for a swim. Type A types may want to
Since this is a diet book, there are chapters devoted to what to eat. There are no recipes save for
a smoothie recipe.Dr. Vickery does have a list which is broken down into three categories.There are proteins, oils and fats and oils.Recipes can be created by taking a protein like chicken then mixing it with kale and spinach.Use a fat like grass fed butter or ghee along with spices to cook with . The doctor prefers and strongly advised buying organic meats.Some dairy is allowed such as cream cheese, surprisingly , along with whole fat Greek yogurt and milk. He also emphasizes the need for fiber and omega fatty 3s.Its not just for fish for the last. You can also sub in leafy green veggies too. There is the usual warnings against soda and alcohol. He does approve of tea and coffee because both can be ingested in moderation. Just stay away from sugar, use honey instead along with vanilla and cinnamon.Wheat is taboo but if you feel like having pasta occasionally do so.
Changing your habits for a better life is a great idea.Use Dr. Vickery's book to do so. Authentic Health The Definitive Guide is your transformation go to for a healthier diet and lifestyle.
Friday, August 9, 2019
The Eat Live Thrive Diet
It is a Herculean task once we hit a certain age . Women, especially, have a tough time once they hit their forties and fifties. Don't despair. There is a new diet and lifestyle that help with nutrition going to the body and the soul. It's time to get on the eat,live thrive diet.
Danna Demetre and Robyn Thomson wrote about it in their new book Eat Live Thrive Diet : A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism (Waterbrook Publishing 2019). Once a woman hits menopause, it's incredibly hard to lose weight. She also gives up. This book offers a solution in which she'll not only feel better physically but also spiritually. The authors have gone through the diet and philosophy themselves. Ms. Demetre is in her mid-sixites while Ms. Thomson is a decade younger. Both have had backgrounds in mentoring and as coaches . They know what works. There are chapters devoted to the three kinds of diets women, along with men can try. What is interesting is how they show going about to find out the diet that works for an individual. It's sort of like an allergy test, with all sorts of foods being tasted and tested. The reaction is recorded and that food is eliminated. Then there are three diets or levels a reader can go on. Level One is just ridding oneself of all sugars and grains. Level Two is much more intense with even potatoes and beans. Level Three is even more strict. Both Ms. Demetre and Ms. Thomson take it one step further with body brushing, where you brush your body with a hair brush to stimulate your blood flow and eliminate toxins. Level Three also requires participants to practice box breathing as well.
This book also has a spiritual side and Bible verses are seen quite often. It will give dieters a better and more positive outlook on their bodies and self image. Another religious facet is fasting which I've tried to do when I read the book. It's a good way of purifying the body and allowing the digestive system to take a break. There is also a chapter on sleep which is vital in losing weight., Again I've tried a few of Ms. Demetre's and Ms Thomson's suggestions for a good, restful night. There is a chapter on exercise, but again this is not a heavy duty regimen. It's tailored to individual and takes into consideration age and body type. Of course this is also a recipe book and there are a variety of different dishes for the different levels.There is even a chapter on salad dressing which they recommend bringing to restaurants.Breakfast recipes are grain free. Most are power smoothies, designed to take you to lunch.There are pumpkin spice pancakes made with coconut flour and sweetened with pure monk fruit extract. The main course recipes are hearty and can even be served at a dinner party. They all are delicious from the roasted free range chicken with rosemary , chives and garlic to easy baked salmon over spinach. Even the kids will like the turkey taco wraps and slow cook chili. There are treats too, such as sorbets, cakes and cookies, along with muffins that can be easily made.Dieters will appreciate the inclusion of a chocolate truffle and chocolate bliss squares. Even mocktails are including for healthful imbibing.
Eat Live Thrive Diet: A Lifestyle Plan To Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism is a definite must have for those wanting to lose weight.The entire program will ensure not only healthy eating but healthy living. Embrace the philosophy for a better life.
Danna Demetre and Robyn Thomson wrote about it in their new book Eat Live Thrive Diet : A Lifestyle Plan to Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism (Waterbrook Publishing 2019). Once a woman hits menopause, it's incredibly hard to lose weight. She also gives up. This book offers a solution in which she'll not only feel better physically but also spiritually. The authors have gone through the diet and philosophy themselves. Ms. Demetre is in her mid-sixites while Ms. Thomson is a decade younger. Both have had backgrounds in mentoring and as coaches . They know what works. There are chapters devoted to the three kinds of diets women, along with men can try. What is interesting is how they show going about to find out the diet that works for an individual. It's sort of like an allergy test, with all sorts of foods being tasted and tested. The reaction is recorded and that food is eliminated. Then there are three diets or levels a reader can go on. Level One is just ridding oneself of all sugars and grains. Level Two is much more intense with even potatoes and beans. Level Three is even more strict. Both Ms. Demetre and Ms. Thomson take it one step further with body brushing, where you brush your body with a hair brush to stimulate your blood flow and eliminate toxins. Level Three also requires participants to practice box breathing as well.
This book also has a spiritual side and Bible verses are seen quite often. It will give dieters a better and more positive outlook on their bodies and self image. Another religious facet is fasting which I've tried to do when I read the book. It's a good way of purifying the body and allowing the digestive system to take a break. There is also a chapter on sleep which is vital in losing weight., Again I've tried a few of Ms. Demetre's and Ms Thomson's suggestions for a good, restful night. There is a chapter on exercise, but again this is not a heavy duty regimen. It's tailored to individual and takes into consideration age and body type. Of course this is also a recipe book and there are a variety of different dishes for the different levels.There is even a chapter on salad dressing which they recommend bringing to restaurants.Breakfast recipes are grain free. Most are power smoothies, designed to take you to lunch.There are pumpkin spice pancakes made with coconut flour and sweetened with pure monk fruit extract. The main course recipes are hearty and can even be served at a dinner party. They all are delicious from the roasted free range chicken with rosemary , chives and garlic to easy baked salmon over spinach. Even the kids will like the turkey taco wraps and slow cook chili. There are treats too, such as sorbets, cakes and cookies, along with muffins that can be easily made.Dieters will appreciate the inclusion of a chocolate truffle and chocolate bliss squares. Even mocktails are including for healthful imbibing.
Eat Live Thrive Diet: A Lifestyle Plan To Rev Up Your Midlife Metabolism is a definite must have for those wanting to lose weight.The entire program will ensure not only healthy eating but healthy living. Embrace the philosophy for a better life.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
The Dates Of Ramadan
Ramadan starts tonight and with it both fasting and feasting. The feasting comes early in the morning and late at night. Dates play an important part in both meals. They not only serve as nutrition but also are part of a tradition that goes back centuries. They can be made into both sweet and savory dishes, beloved by all.
Julia Moskin explored this in her article in today's New York Times Food section. Muslims do not eat during the day when they observe Ramadan. Eating occurs either during the predawn suhoor and the sundown meal, iftar. Dates figure prominently in the meals, since the Prophet Mohammed himself broke the fast with dates and water. The fruit proves a quick pop of energy after fasting. They have been grown in the Middle East for millennia. They are mentioned often in the Quran and the Bible along with ancient Assyrian and Sumerian texts. Surprisingly, they belong to the same botanical family as grasses and not fruits. This explains why they have more in commons with grains than with bananas, apples, or grapes. They contain potassium, iron, zinc and other minerals. Dates are a dietary staple. They've been grown here in the States for the last century.The Agricultural Department wanted to transform the southwest's arid fields into lush gardens and the date palm perfectly fit that description. They thrive in California's Coachella Valley (yes, that Coachella, where the music fest takes pace) and Yuma , Arizona. sales are good, thanks to a growing Arab population in Southern California and people discovering the fruit's health benefits.
Ms. Moskin has discovered that a date is not just a date. There are several different types. One of the most popular is the barhi date, liked because it can also be eaten in its' yellow, unripe stage. Unlike its' riper , sweeter self, or called tamar, this young fruit has a touch of astringency like a tart grape or crisp apple, making it perfect for balancing rich and savory dishes. There are actually three different types of dates: soft which covers the types. the barhi,halawi,khadrawi and medjool, semi hard which has the deglet noor,dayri, amaray and zahidi and dry like the thoori.. Flavors also vary as well. Some could taste like rich molasses while others have a light butterscotch flavor. There are dates that even are reminiscent of cognac and burnt caramel. Dishes vary as well. There is savory chicken roast chicken ,redolent of the fruit along with couscous and buttered almonds. Medjool dates are added to a freekah or wheat berry side dish that also has carrots. The same dates can also be whipped up into a tasty side or dessert with crème fraiche,almonds, walnuts or pecans and pistachios. Many Iranians transform the dates into an elaborate dessert for Eid ad-Fitr, a great feast on the first night of the month that follows Ramadan.It is a traditional date cake, cooked with cinnamon and cardamom and then layered with walnuts.
Dates are an important part of Ramadan and Eid-ad_Fitr. They connect generations and dishes, from savory to sweet. Try them as part of the ritual or t enjoy their many health benefits.
Julia Moskin explored this in her article in today's New York Times Food section. Muslims do not eat during the day when they observe Ramadan. Eating occurs either during the predawn suhoor and the sundown meal, iftar. Dates figure prominently in the meals, since the Prophet Mohammed himself broke the fast with dates and water. The fruit proves a quick pop of energy after fasting. They have been grown in the Middle East for millennia. They are mentioned often in the Quran and the Bible along with ancient Assyrian and Sumerian texts. Surprisingly, they belong to the same botanical family as grasses and not fruits. This explains why they have more in commons with grains than with bananas, apples, or grapes. They contain potassium, iron, zinc and other minerals. Dates are a dietary staple. They've been grown here in the States for the last century.The Agricultural Department wanted to transform the southwest's arid fields into lush gardens and the date palm perfectly fit that description. They thrive in California's Coachella Valley (yes, that Coachella, where the music fest takes pace) and Yuma , Arizona. sales are good, thanks to a growing Arab population in Southern California and people discovering the fruit's health benefits.
Ms. Moskin has discovered that a date is not just a date. There are several different types. One of the most popular is the barhi date, liked because it can also be eaten in its' yellow, unripe stage. Unlike its' riper , sweeter self, or called tamar, this young fruit has a touch of astringency like a tart grape or crisp apple, making it perfect for balancing rich and savory dishes. There are actually three different types of dates: soft which covers the types. the barhi,halawi,khadrawi and medjool, semi hard which has the deglet noor,dayri, amaray and zahidi and dry like the thoori.. Flavors also vary as well. Some could taste like rich molasses while others have a light butterscotch flavor. There are dates that even are reminiscent of cognac and burnt caramel. Dishes vary as well. There is savory chicken roast chicken ,redolent of the fruit along with couscous and buttered almonds. Medjool dates are added to a freekah or wheat berry side dish that also has carrots. The same dates can also be whipped up into a tasty side or dessert with crème fraiche,almonds, walnuts or pecans and pistachios. Many Iranians transform the dates into an elaborate dessert for Eid ad-Fitr, a great feast on the first night of the month that follows Ramadan.It is a traditional date cake, cooked with cinnamon and cardamom and then layered with walnuts.
Dates are an important part of Ramadan and Eid-ad_Fitr. They connect generations and dishes, from savory to sweet. Try them as part of the ritual or t enjoy their many health benefits.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Good Friday And Fasts
today is Good Friday. Most Christians around the world have already observed the day. What you can do is try fasting or light eating along with donating to your local or church pantry. Even skipping a small meal can help the body, purifying it. if you do feel hungry then broth and crackers can alleviate the pangs.Most religions do have a fasting period. it's not only a sign of respect, it 's also helps the body detoxify.
however you observe this Good Friday, keep in mind those who do not have. donate whatever food you have to your local food pantry.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Feasting Well
Tomorrow is one of the biggest eating days of the year.It's a time to indulge in every favorite holiday food for almost an entire day. The question is can our stomach manage it?Is it right to eat three helpings of stuffing or four of turkey and green bean casserole? The answer is surprising.
This quandary was the entire topic of Jesse McKinley's article in today's New York Times Dining section. The writer even interviewed such food contest champs as Crazy Legs Conti. Mr. Conti has had his share of gluttony in the past. After all he is the country's reigning sweet corn eating champion. He wants "civilians" to go easy tomorrow and actually today as well. Don't spend today fasting. It'll only result in overeating tomorrow. Try little meals and a sensible breakfast instead. You'll eat the turkey dinner as if you were eating a regular meal then, with some moderation because you've already filled up earlier.
What about those calorie counters?Another group that has headaches with tomorrow's feast. Again Mr. Conti offers this suggestion : don't beat yourself up too much. People have a tendency to chastise themselves for overeating. The best bet is to let those feelings go and enjoy the meal. Another guilt free method is sticking to the lower calorie foods. Opt for celery sticks and crudites along with slices of plain turkey breast. Skip the usual gravy stuffing and anything with sweet potatoes and marshmallows.Also just drink seltzer which has zero calories or water.
In the end though you can indulge in as much as you want. The body does adjust according to doctors who were also interviewed. Gobble away on that pecan pie or turkey leg. You can walk away the calories the next day anyway during your Black Friday trip to the mall.
This quandary was the entire topic of Jesse McKinley's article in today's New York Times Dining section. The writer even interviewed such food contest champs as Crazy Legs Conti. Mr. Conti has had his share of gluttony in the past. After all he is the country's reigning sweet corn eating champion. He wants "civilians" to go easy tomorrow and actually today as well. Don't spend today fasting. It'll only result in overeating tomorrow. Try little meals and a sensible breakfast instead. You'll eat the turkey dinner as if you were eating a regular meal then, with some moderation because you've already filled up earlier.
What about those calorie counters?Another group that has headaches with tomorrow's feast. Again Mr. Conti offers this suggestion : don't beat yourself up too much. People have a tendency to chastise themselves for overeating. The best bet is to let those feelings go and enjoy the meal. Another guilt free method is sticking to the lower calorie foods. Opt for celery sticks and crudites along with slices of plain turkey breast. Skip the usual gravy stuffing and anything with sweet potatoes and marshmallows.Also just drink seltzer which has zero calories or water.
In the end though you can indulge in as much as you want. The body does adjust according to doctors who were also interviewed. Gobble away on that pecan pie or turkey leg. You can walk away the calories the next day anyway during your Black Friday trip to the mall.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Ash Wednesday Time For Changes
Today is Ash Wednesday in the Christian calendar. it;s a time when most give up their favorite foods or even necessities like butter and milk. It;s a season of fasting however it's may also be a time to look change dietary ways.
Most people usually give up some food that they love for Lent. Some even go vegan which is a good idea. This is the time to explore other options, such as soy and quorn. Once you've given up faves like bacon or burgers you can look into the soy alternatives which taste the same and are good for you. (let's face it we all will crave the foods we give up.)These are great subs if you;re completely dying for bacon and eggs or just a nice grilled cheese burger. If you're giving up dairy and butter, then then are also soy made alternatives. Not only is there soy milk , but also almond and rice. As for butter there is pure coconut oil to cook with and the old standard margarine.
For those of you who have given up sweets, think about the alternative - fresh fruit. This is the time to become reacquainted with bananas , apples and oranges. Instead of craving a Hershey's kiss , think about a nice , juicy, iron rich grape. If you feel like ice cream,. then then eat a fruit yogurt which has plenty of calcium but little calories. You'll also feel better too because you're eating fiber and protein as opposed to allergy inducing glutens. Forbidding yourself that piece of cake never felt so good - or so right. too
Lent should be the time of fasting and repentance but it can also be a time of rediscovery. Giving up the bad means eating healthy. You may just change over to this lifestyle year round.
Most people usually give up some food that they love for Lent. Some even go vegan which is a good idea. This is the time to explore other options, such as soy and quorn. Once you've given up faves like bacon or burgers you can look into the soy alternatives which taste the same and are good for you. (let's face it we all will crave the foods we give up.)These are great subs if you;re completely dying for bacon and eggs or just a nice grilled cheese burger. If you're giving up dairy and butter, then then are also soy made alternatives. Not only is there soy milk , but also almond and rice. As for butter there is pure coconut oil to cook with and the old standard margarine.
For those of you who have given up sweets, think about the alternative - fresh fruit. This is the time to become reacquainted with bananas , apples and oranges. Instead of craving a Hershey's kiss , think about a nice , juicy, iron rich grape. If you feel like ice cream,. then then eat a fruit yogurt which has plenty of calcium but little calories. You'll also feel better too because you're eating fiber and protein as opposed to allergy inducing glutens. Forbidding yourself that piece of cake never felt so good - or so right. too
Lent should be the time of fasting and repentance but it can also be a time of rediscovery. Giving up the bad means eating healthy. You may just change over to this lifestyle year round.
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