Tag: antioxidants

Exploring Natural Sweeteners: Date Syrup – A Sweet Adventure Awaits You

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Get ready to explore a seriously fascinating topic today – Date Syrup. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill sweetener; it’s a natural wonder that brings both flavor and health benefits to the table. We’re diving deep into why dates are impressive, what sets this syrup apart, and how I’m incorporating it seamlessly into my daily routine – think cereals, teas, smoothies, and even the creation of mouthwatering raw brownies. Let’s dive in!

Dates: Nature’s Nutrient Powerhouses

Dates have been a dietary staple for ages, and they pack a punch when it comes to nutritional value. These little powerhouses are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that supports digestive health. We’re talking about potassium, magnesium, iron – the essentials your body craves. And don’t even get me started on the antioxidants they bring to the table – they’re like the superheroes of the food world, fighting off those harmful free radicals.

Date Syrup’s Sweet Symphony

Hold up, because here comes the game-changer – Date Syrup. This isn’t your ordinary sweet stuff. Picture this: a smooth, caramel-like experience with a hint of honey’s sweetness. The process is equally impressive – dates simmered, strained, and reduced to create a liquid gold that’s not just about flavor; it’s about taking care of your well-being too.

More Than Just a Sweet Fix

But wait, there’s more to this sweet story. Date Syrup isn’t just about taste – it’s about delivering real benefits:

  1. Nutrient Boost: Date Syrup holds onto the goodness from dates – vitamins, minerals, and fiber – all in one delicious package.
  2. Digestive Hero: With fiber in the mix, your digestion game gets an automatic upgrade – no more sluggish feelings.
  3. Steady Energy: Natural sugars mean you’re getting that energy boost without the notorious sugar crashes.
  4. Antioxidant Warrior: The antioxidants in Date Syrup are on a mission to fight off those harmful free radicals, keeping you in tip-top shape.

Culinary Adventures Await

Get ready to unleash your inner culinary artist, because Date Syrup is a versatile ingredient that brings out the best in your dishes:

  1. Breakfast Elevation: Elevate your morning by drizzling Date Syrup over cereals, oats, or yogurt – a touch of sophistication to start your day.
  2. Tea Infusion: Jazz up your teas with a splash of Date Syrup – a natural sweetness that adds a layer of depth to your cuppa.
  3. Smoothie Magic: Transform your smoothies into a taste sensation with a spoonful of Date Syrup – an upgrade that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
  4. Dessert Enchantment: Wave your magic spatula and turn your ice cream into something spectacular with Date Syrup. Baking? Swap it in for sugar and watch your desserts soar to new heights.

Raw Brownies: A No-Bake Wonder

And here’s the pièce de résistance – raw brownies. No need for an oven; just dates, nuts, cocoa, and a generous drizzle of Date Syrup for a guilt-free indulgence. These brownies are everything – fudgy, decadent, and oh-so-satisfying.

So, if you’re tired of the same old sweeteners, remember that Date Syrup is here to shake things up. It’s all about that natural, rich sweetness that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your body. Whether you’re adding it to your morning routine or experimenting with raw brownies, Date Syrup brings a touch of elegance and health to every bite. Get ready to savor the sweetness, my friends! ????????

Black Garlic Powers

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Black garlic has long been prized by Asians for its health benefits, but it became widely available in Western markets only a few years ago. Developed in Korea, black garlic has gained popularity among Western foodies for several years now, but it has recently caught the eye of the health-minded due to studies revealing its impressive nutritional properties.

 

The black bulb is created by fermenting raw garlic through prolonged exposure to heat and humidity, giving it a sweet, mellow flavor and an inky hue. No additives, no preservatives… just pure garlic. Fermentation takes place in a humidity-controlled environment in temperatures of about 140 to 170 degrees F for 30 days. Once out of the heat, the bulbs are then left to oxidize in a clean room for 45 days.This lengthy process causes the garlic cloves to turn black and develop a soft, chewy texture with flavors reminiscent of “balsamic vinegar” and “soy sauce,” with a sweet “prune-like” taste. In addition to the sulfuric compounds that provide garlic with its heart-healthy and anticancer benefits, the fermented cloves are a source of important probiotics. “Fermented foods help stabilize our intestinal flora. When the intestine is in good shape, it strengthens our immune system,” says Bellatti. Black garlic has been increasingly sought-after in high-end cuisine, and it is often used to make sauces, dressings, and dips.

 

 

Although the process is consistently described as “fermentation,” it really isn’t that in the strictest sense, as the transformation does not involve microbial processes—specifically, enzymatic breakdown and the Maillard Reaction are responsible for the caramelization of the sugars, dark color and deep, complex flavor profile. As the pearly white cloves slowly transition into their final black appearance, compounds in the fresh garlic transform into a whole new range of compounds. Compared to fresh garlic, black garlic is low in alliin but it is astonishingly high in other antioxidants.

 

 

Black garlic was found to have twice the antioxidant levels as fresh—the aging/fermenting process appears to double the antioxidants. Aficionados claim the flavor will impress even the most avid garlic-hater, as the pungency and spiciness is gone

 

Perhaps this is why Mandarin oil painter Choo Keng Kwang experienced a complete reversal of his psoriasis after just four days of eating half a bulb of black garlic a day—this, after trying countless medically prescribed skin creams that were all complete failures.

 

Feeling Crappy? Natural Remedies for Cold Seasons

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Coming down with a cold is never fun, regardless of the virus, neither is taking medication. That’s why I compliled a small list of healthier remedies that don’t put so much strain on the body allowing the immune system to heal quicker. 

 

1. Ginger Tea with Honey + Lemon

 

 

This is my favorite remedy, my number 1 remedy. Boil the water with the chopped up ginger pices already in, makes a nice ginger water. You can also add Oregano oil  and Cayenne Pepper to improve this remedy. Ginger contains numerous other anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds beneficial to health such as gingerols, beta-carotene, capsaicin, caffeic acid, curcumin and salicylate. The added bonus of honey and lemon both improves the flavor and adds more immune-boosting goodness.

 

The Powers of Ginger

 

2. Oregano Oil

 

 

This one is different, and not so popular. It’s one worth having around the house. It’s best used as soon as you notice any symptoms to improve your immune system, sometimes, that cold won’t even develop at all. I personally only use it internally when I’m not feeling well, it should be diluted with water or mixed with coconut oil.  The one I use is this Plant Therapy Oregano (Origanum) Essential Oil, but you can also find it at your local health store. The dried herb oregano is typically fine for pregnant women but when using oil of oregano pregnant women should use caution and only use if instructed by a physician to do so.

 

Oregano Oil Powers

 

3. Astragulus

 

 

Astragalus is a Chinese herb that’s been used for centuries to strengthen the body’s internal systems, it specifically can help with colds and upper respiratory infections. 

Astragalus is available in a variety of forms at drugstores and natural food stores, coming in drops, ground into spice, and tablets — be sure to follow the dosage recommended on the bottle. The root (which can be boiled in tea and soup) may also be available in Chinese grocery stores, and might be combined with other plants like ligustrum and ginseng. I suggest taking it with a full glass of water, and drinking increased liquids while using the herb.

 

I’m currently using all three types. 

Tables: Nature’s Way Astragalus Root, 470 mg, 180 Vcaps

Liquid: Herb Pharm Certified Organic Astragalus Extract

 

4. Bee Pollen

 

 

Taking half a teaspoon of bee pollen with some warm water as soon as you wake up every morning will not only give your immune system a serious boost, but will also raise your energy levels. After taking it for just a few days, you’ll wake up with an unexpected spring in your step in the morning.

 

When it comes to supplements, natural doesn’t always mean safe.  Experts are warning that taking natural bee pollen supplements may come with the risk of suffering a serious allergic reaction, including life-threatening anaphylactic shock.It’s important to know how allergic you are to bees. 

 

If you’re looking to try this out I can recommend GREENBOW Organic Bee Pollen, its USDA certified organic.

 

Powers of Bee pollen