Category: Food & Health

Losing weight can be incredibly difficult in our society. Let’s face it, most of our jobs are sedentary and few of us have managed to get into a good workout routine. While you shouldn’t give up on exercise, there are other ways to lose weight and live a healthier life.

For example, swapping out inherently unhealthy foods for healthy substitutes can help you significantly reduce the amount of fat and sugar in your diet. More importantly, these healthy foods can help you live a longer, happier, healthier life.

We’re here to provide you with some easy examples. Keep reading for four healthy food substitutions.

1. Dairy-Free Products

Most people, whether they’re aware of it or not, have some level of lactose intolerance. That’s because saturated fats that are commonly found in excess in dairy products, cause inflammation. In addition, these fats can quickly add to your waistline.

Fortunately, there is a wide variety of dairy substitutes for things like milk, cheese, ice cream, and butter. For example, switch your dairy milk or creamer out for soy milk, oat milk, almond milk, or cashew milk. You can also find dairy-free icecreams that are equally delicious.

2. Whole Grains

One of the fastest ways to increase your body fat is by consuming too many simple carbohydrates. These include things like white bread, white pasta, white rice, donuts, cookies, candy, etc.

This is because our body doesn’t know what to do with all of that immediate energy. When we consume a high level of simple carbs (which is essentially sugar), our body releases insulin. Then, this energy is stored for later by being converted into fat.

Instead, consume complex carbohydrates that digest slowly. These healthy substitutes include whole-grain bread, whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, oats, etc. Then, your body can use this energy over time, rather than being forced to find a solution immediately.

3. Healthy Spreads

Next, let’s talk about finding healthy substitutes for things we spread on sandwiches. For example, mayo makes meat and cheese sandwiches far better. However, mayo isn’t exactly a health food.

Fortunately, you can find a healthy substitute for mayo, like Miracle Whip. You can also try hummus, avocado, pesto, and more.

Another unhealthy spread we tend to overindulge in is peanut butter. However, you can substitute almond butter as a tasty alternative that’s healthier … Read more

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Are you a beer person or a wine person? If the latter is your answer, you must as well know that wine is not restricted to a particular formation. Wine has different styles. It comes in different types that are further paired with different food items to enhance your experience of tasting it. 

When you pair your wine with the right kind of food, its taste enhances. Today, wine-tasting has become one of the most popular hobbies among the youth as well as adults. Wine is one classic and healthy beverage. Whether you are hosting a party or setting up the dinner table for yourself and your partner, a glass of wine always sets the right mood. 

Here is everything to know about different styles of wine and their food-pairing: 

White Wine: 

A glass of white wine looks fresh and scintillating. You might not be aware of it, but do you know white wine is not made of white grapes alone? The composition of white wine includes some varieties of red or black grapes as well. 

The red pigments from these grapes are extracted, and the grape juice is used to turn them into a flavorful wine. Eventually, what you get on the glass is a bright, creamy, and savory drink – best for all kinds of parties and celebrations. 

Pair your white wine with the food items such as creamy cheese, fish, salads, white bread, or seafood for the best taste. 

Red Wine: 

Red wine is the most romantic drink that you would want to have with your partner on your date night. The production of this wine is very similar to white wine. The only difference here is that grape skin, pip, and seeds are also added during fermentation. 

This wine is fermented at a very high temperature due to which it becomes beautiful in appearance and highly aromatic. You can pair your red wine with food items such as white meat, chicken, and even vegetables. Red wine tastes the best when paired with Asian platters. 

Mead: 

Call it mead or honey wine – it’s the same. This wine is prepared by fermenting honey and water with yeast. What makes this wine popular is that it can also be flavored with various spices, fruits, grains, and even hops. Mead has its own distinct style and category. … Read more

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Staying healthy is important as it allows you the luxury of feeling fine and welcome in your own body even when age starts to creep in. Therefore, rather than neglecting this topic, it’s important to invest some effort to live a healthy lifestyle.

A balanced diet, enough exercise, and staying away from too much stress are all important factors that can help you be healthy. However, taking enough vitamins and minerals is equally important, especially in these unstable times when persona health is fickle.

Selenium is a trace mineral, and your body needs it to function properly. So if you’ve decided to boost your intake because of doctor’s orders, or you simply feel like you need it, here are some best food sources of selenium that will help you along the way.

Beef

Beef is one of the tastiest and juiciest meats available, so if you enjoy eating steak, then you’re lucky. So if you don’t have any dietary restrictions or preferences, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t consume it, just keep in mind that one portion has about half of the daily required quantity, so you’ll need more portions or some extra sources.

Brazilian nuts

Brazilian nuts are healthy and rich in selenium, even more than some meats, which means they’re suitable for vegetarians and vegans too. However, it’s essential to remember that only one Brazil nut can have more selenium than you might need in a day, so be careful when eating it, and consult your doctor if you have potential nut allergies.

Broccoli and other vegetables

Animal products are high in selenium, which is not great news for plant-eaters. Still, there are vegetables that can be replaced with meat. One of them is broccoli.

Maybe you disliked it as a kid, but now that you’re an adult, try adding it to your diet as it’s healthy and rich in selenium. This mineral is a rich antioxidant and can lower the risk of many diseases which are some of the top benefits of taking selenium that can boost your wellbeing. Luckily, healthy vegetables like spinach, beans, potatoes, and spinach are a great source of it.

Chicken

Eating chicken can satisfy your selenium needs, but keep in mind that chicken has less selenium than beef and seafood, so you might need more portions.

Also, chicken is … Read more

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Get to know easy ways to elevate your homemade pizza and make it easily comparable to the restaurant-bought pizza.

It’s very hard to find someone who doesn’t love pizza. It’s the ultimate comfort food for most of us. Ninety-four percent of Americans have pizza regularly. Pizza generally has a lot of different flavors at once because of the different toppings. Moreover, the cheese acts as the cherry on top. Overall, this Italian delicacy pleases most people without a fail.

For most of us, whenever we crave pizza, the only thing that comes to our mind is to rush to your favorite restaurant or get it delivered. Let’s be honest; it’s not that reasonable. It’s a bit too much to spend considering how often we want to have it. The truth is you don’t need to burn a hole in your pocket every time you crave pizza. You can make it at home and that would be a lot cheaper.

The idea of making your own pizza might intimidate a lot of us either because you have attempted it previously and failed, or you believe that the taste won’t be the same. However, the truth is YOU CAN MAKE RESTAURANT-QUALITY PIZZA AT HOME. Yes, and it’s not that hard. Continue reading to know more about the factors that can help you make the best pizza.

Crust

The perfect golden crust on a pizza is something that many people find hard to achieve. Pizza is generally cooked at very high heat. Traditionally, it is done in a brick or clay oven that elevates the process even more. This whole process is what gives that perfect crust. You obviously won’t have one of those at home just to make pizzas.

It’s very important to cook the pizza in a very hot oven. However, using a brick or clay oven is not always necessary. An electric oven or gas oven would work, but if you are planning to do it without an oven, don’t expect a lot from it because stovetop pizzas can’t match store-bought pizzas. An electric oven will give you the best results, but gas ovens work fine too.

Another thing to keep in mind is to preheat the oven very well. Don’t rush it. As mentioned before, pizza needs to be cooked at a very high temperature. So before … Read more

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In our busy twenty-first century lives, everything is a rush. Many of us are so exhausted at the end of our days that we just cannot find the energy to cook. This bad habit leaves us reaching for quickly microwavable processed foods like ready meals or instead, dialling up our favourite takeaways.

Whilst the convenience may be worth it, and whilst the foods may even taste good, the additives and preservatives that processed foods contain are more harmful for our health and our budgets in the long run.

Even our snacks contain added unnecessary sugars, whereas switching them with natural options like vegan chocolate can have huge positive impacts on our health and lifestyle.

On the other hand clean, organic and natural diets with focuses on fresh and natural foods can provide key nutrients in just a few ingredients. Just like their nutritious value, the benefits of these diets are also plentiful so read on to discover them.

What Are Natural Foods?

Natural foods are foods that have not been altered from their natural state. Whereas processed foods will have been altered with additives, sugars and preservatives for example, natural foods contain none of these.

Examples of natural foods include fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains, beans, legumes and nuts and seeds.

The Benefits Of Natural Foods:

1.   Lower Cholesterol

Eating foods with too much saturated fat raises cholesterol levels, which can lead to heart disease and risk of stroke. Foods that contain saturated fat include cakes, puddings, pastries and pies, as well as crisps and biscuits.

Banish saturated fats and swap these with healthy unsaturated fats to keep cholesterol levels at a healthy level. Add in whole grains like in wholewheat pasta and brown bread, alongside raw fruit and vegetables and other natural foods like nuts which contain healthy fats, avocados, lentils and seeds instead.

2.   Less Risk of Disease

It’s long been known that processed meats, fried or greasy foods, high sugar sweets and refined grains are linked to general inflammation which puts us at a high risk of developing heart disease or worsening preexisting heart conditions.

Choosing lean, natural and unprocessed foods lowers this risk of inflammation which in turn helps to keep our heart healthy.

3.   Reduced Weight Gain

Processed foods are full of unhealthy unsaturated fats and sugars. Sugar is … Read more

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A popular party appetizer, charcuterie boards are an impressive go-to snack. No longer just for cheeses and meats, at-home charcuterie boards combine sweet and savory snacks for the perfect mix for entertaining.

Read on and learn how to put together a sweet and salty snack board and what types of gourmet foods to use in your mix.

Arranging a Sweet and Savory Snack Board

It all starts with the board. You can’t pick your gourmet goodies unless you know the size of the canvas you’ll have to display them. In this case, you will need a large wooden board or platter. If you’re serving items to which some guests might be allergic, such as nuts, it’s wise to put them on a separate board or in smaller bowls clustered around the snack platter, to avoid cross-contamination.

Traditional charcuterie boards include items that are grab-and-go (e.g., dried fruit, crackers, and nuts) and cheeses and meats, which can be pre-sliced or served whole for guests to cut themselves. Your snack charcuterie board can adopt the same principle: sweet and savory snacks combined with larger items that you slice for guests, such as a caramel apple or a soft cheese. If children are around, pre-slice anything big; you’ll want to keep knives away from little fingers.

Safety precautions aside, compiling your snack board is an exercise in contrasts. Sweet and savory, flavor and texture, creamy and crunchy, color, etc. By playing with these elements, you can craft the perfect assortment. Mix and match by these variables to create a board that looks visually enticing. For example, surround soft cheese and crackers (both savory; one creamy and the other crunchy) with items that are colorful and sweet (fresh fruit, trail mix, or a bowl of candy-coated chocolates).

What to Put on Your Sweet and Salty Charcuterie Board

The appeal of a charcuterie board is in its versatility. Guests have the opportunity to pile a bit of everything on their plate, then create their culinary adventure one bite at a time. To mimic the diversity and bounty of a restaurant-style charcuterie board at your next get-together, try these fun snack foods:

• Fresh and dried fruit: Fresh and dried fruit are snack board essentials for those healthy eaters who prefer natural foods. Use fruits that can be eaten whole, such as strawberries or grapes,

… Read more Read More

For the record, we are not promoting dishonesty, but let’s be clear: When was the last time you remembered to put the beans to soak early enough, so they were ready for that special moment? I have no idea. As most of us are always in a hurry, this type of food that you have to start preparing in advance is not good for us.

If you are one of mine and you love homemade beans, but you prefer the convenience of canned ones, here are some of the best canned pinto beans recipe. They are so easy that you can even make them on a canning stove.

Canned Pinto Beans Recipe

Here are some best recipes you won’t find on any simply recipes website:

Recipe 1: Refried Pinto Beans

Who would have thought that refried beans could be healthy? In this recipe, they taste the same without all the added fat. In addition to being cholesterol-free, they are gluten-free, and can be eaten guilt-free!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 15 oz. (440 g) canned pinto beans, drained
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
• ½ lime squeezed

Instructions

• Pour all the ingredients into the blender or mixer container in the order listed and close the lid securely.
• Select high speed and press pulse control 5 to 6 times, or until beans are pureed with chunks.
• Place the beans in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 5 to 8 minutes.

Recipe 2: Canned Pinto Beans And Bacon Soup

A single dish full of flavor, which combines the intense taste of pinto beans with bacon’s flavor. A perfect balance.

Ingredients

• 500 g of canned steamed pinto beans
• 200 g of chopped carrots, onion and celery
• 70 g of bacon
• 30 g of grated cheese
• 500 g of vegetable broth
• Extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, sage to taste

Instructions

• First, gently fry the chopped vegetables with the oil and the sage leaf and then cut the bacon into small pieces.
• Add half of the whole pinto beans and half crushed or pureed.
• Sprinkle with the broth and cook gently for a few minutes, adjusting the flavor with salt and pepper.
• Serve the pinto bean and bacon soup hot, sprinkled with grated cheese and ground pepper

… Read more Read More

Carbonated water is an excellent thirst quencher. The bubbles can really hit the spot on a hot summer day. Even better, mix it with cordials and enjoy a zesty, refreshing beverage.

Of course, carbonated water can do more than just quench your thirst. Also called sparkling or water, it can be used for several other things, be it gardening, cleaning, and even cooking.

Want to know more before you buy bulk from San Pellegrino suppliers? Read on to learn all about sparkling water and the ten most surprising uses it has that you probably didn’t know about.

What is Sparkling Water?

Sparkling water is also called carbonated water because it is infused with pressurized carbon dioxide gas that causes it to produce bubbles. This bubbly drink is also known by many names: soda water, club soda, fizzy water, and seltzer water.

Save for seltzer water, most carbonated waters are typically salted to taste better. In some cases, small amounts of minerals are added.

However, naturally sparkling mineral waters are different. Be it a San Pellegrino or a Perrier; these waters naturally come with mineral and sulfur compounds because they are sourced from mineral springs. From there, these waters are carbonated.

10 Lesser-Known Uses of Carbonated Water

How do you prefer your sparkling water? With ice and a slice? Or perhaps with a dash of lime cordial?

Believe it or not, you can do more with carbonated water than just drinking. It can also serve many purposes, such as:

1.Stain buster

If endless cups of tea (or coffee) help you get through the day, then you’re probably no stranger to cup stains. With constant use, your favorite mug or cup may get stain build-up that can be difficult to remove with just dishwashing soap and regular water.

This is where sparking water comes in. Simply pour it into the stained mug, and leave it for at least 30 minutes. Then, wash the mug as you normally would, and you’d discover that the stains have disappeared.

Of course, sparkling water can lift more than tea stains. It can also help you deal with the mess next time you spill something, be it food, wine, and many others.

Simply rub the affected area with soda water. This way, you can easily handle the spillage even while you’re … Read more

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If you love both delicious flavor and a healthy lifestyle, you’re in luck. Click to learn some health benefits of sauerkraut that will make you ready to eat.

Did you know that an American usually eats 1.5 pounds of sauerkraut annually?

Made of fermented raw cabbage, sauerkraut has become a popular side dish that you can buy from a store or make at home. While you may enjoy this food for its rich, distinct flavor, you might not know exactly how healthy sauerkraut is and how it can help your body.

So, why is sauerkraut healthy? Read on for five health benefits of sauerkraut you must know.

1. Improved Digestion

Thanks to the probiotics in the unpasteurized variety of sauerkraut, you can benefit from not having as much stomach trouble such as constipation, gas, and diarrhea. The food can especially help you if you’ve taken antibiotics that destroy both good and bad bacteria and can cause digestion issues.

So, does store bought sauerkraut have probiotics? Unfortunately, it doesn’t since that kind has been pasteurized. So, you’ll need to make your own to get the most sauerkraut benefits.

2. Potential Weight Loss

If you find that you have trouble feeling full and just can’t lose weight, then sauerkraut may help you out. This food contains no fat but has a load of fiber in it.

Along with the impact from the probiotics, the fiber content will make you feel fuller so you’re less likely to reach for more unhealthy foods and snacks during the day. A shrinking waistline can be one of the benefits of sauerkraut you notice most.

3. Less Risk of Cancer

You might feel surprised to learn that eating sauerkraut might cut your risk for breast or prostate cancer. This effect comes from the fact that cabbage has many healthy antioxidants that can protect your cells.

For the most sauerkraut health benefits, try to eat at least three servings weekly.

4. Stronger Immune System

Thanks to the nutrients and probiotics contained in sauerkraut, the food can potentially help you get fewer viruses and other infections. Since sauerkraut helps you build a healthy gut, your body can make more antibodies lined up to defend illness.

Eating sauerkraut might even help you if you already have an illness. For example, the food contains vitamin C which might … Read more

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If you are starting a diet and want your meals to still taste good, then Mexican food is one way to go. Here are benefits of Mexican food for your health.

Though it may not be the first cuisine you’d think of if you’re planning on starting a new diet, Mexican might be the way forward for you!

Below we’ve taken an in-depth look at 5 health benefits of Mexican food for new dieters. We’ve even recommended some signature dishes to go for, so you don’t have to spend ages looking at menus!

1. Benefits of Mexican Food: High In Protein

When it comes to Mexican food, the majority of dishes you’ll be tasting come very high in protein. The benefits of protein are numerous but can include assistance with building bones, muscles, skin, and blood. As you’ll no doubt know, several athletes and celebrities go on high-protein diets alongside strict workout regimes to build up muscle weight.

Mexican food often uses lots of lean meats like chicken as well as beef. Even cheese can help give you the essential protein you need, though try to steer clear of too much of it!

2. High In Fiber

Alongside protein, Mexican food is incredibly high in fiber. This is largely thanks to the reliance on beans in Mexican cooking, including pinto beans and black beans among others.

If you’re looking for bean-heavy Mexican food in Virginia, then you should consider heading to El Paso. They have perhaps the best Mexican food Virginia.

Fiber can help with your digestion and can also reduce the risks of chronic disease, making it one of the healthiest aspects of Mexican cuisine.

3. Features Capsaicin

What is capsaicin you may ask? It isn’t as well-known as fiber or protein, but is just as important to our bodies. Capsaicin is found in the numerous chillis used in Mexican food.

If you can survive the fiery heat that Mexican chillis have to offer, you’ll reap the rewards of capsaicin. It has been proven to reduce your risk of prostate cancer and to burn fats as well, something you absolutely want to be doing on a good diet.

4. High In Vitamins and Minerals

Mexican food features a lot of fresh tomatoes and onions in their salsa, which contains large amounts of vitamin C. As well … Read more

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