Tag Archives: Diet

Beauty of Wine and Grape Juice

The presence and evidence of wine has been traced to the first and second millennium in China and from there, production of wine has been found to also exist during 5000-6000 BC in the Mid-East.  Wine evolved and technology began to advance during the Roman Empire as vineyards were cultivated and wine was stored and shipped in barrels.  Today, researchers provide us with the latest DNA results concerning the progress of the fruit and it’s spirit.

After much DNA research on grapes in the countries of Australia, France and Italy the studies have concluded that the next two-four years of wine production should be exceptional due to the optimal quality of the grape. “The cultivated heterozygous grape species, Vitis vinifera, has potential to become a model for fruit trees genetics after determining it’s genome sequencing”, according to the IASMA Research Center, San Michele all’Adige, Trento, Italy.   Agriculturalists will benefit from this research by quickly identifying and reducing the number of micro-organisms or parasites that are bringing harm to the plant, allowing the farmers to produce a more stable product.  The consumers can look forward to a higher quality wine, which will be more readily available.

Italian wines have consistently outpaced the French and Spanish wines over the past few years. Recent statistics released in a survey done in Los Angeles, CA have shown young Americans and women to perfer: Chianti Classico, Pinot Grigio (Alto Adige and Friuli), Barolo, Barbaresco and Brunello.  However, countries that are competing for a place in the local cantina are: Africa, Argentina and Portugual.  All who have found ways to provide a table wine that will elegantly enhance the simplest to priciest of dinners.

              Recent information in the media presents the  medicinal benefits of wine and juice content of fruit (i.e. Minute Maid), which comes from a chemical compound called Resveratrol (also found in peanuts, soy, cranberries, blueberries, and Itadori tea which maybe a good substitute for red wine) linking it to possible human longevity.  What is known about resveratrol is that it is produced in the skin of red/purple grapes and it’s main purpose is to operate as an anti-fungal agent or an anitbiotic.  It transfers to the juice of the fruit during crushing and fermentation. It’s typically found in red wines, but not white wines. 

Resveratrol is a phenolic compound that can be found where grapes grow in colder climates such as: Northern CA, MI, Canada and North European countries.  This is because rainfall is more and sunlight is less, hence the need for resveratrol to fight against developing fungi.

Medicinal resveratrol has been evident when 1 glass of wine is consumed daily, permitting the blood cells to smoothly pass each other instead of sticking to one another and creating potential blood clots that lead to heart disease. According to the AWRI (Australian Wine Research Institute), Resveratrol is being studied to determine it’s effect on damaged DNA and how it may act as an anti-cancer agent. “It appears related to anti-oxidation, where resveratrol may prevent and repair damage to DNA associated with the initiation of cancer, as well as acting to prevent the growth and proliferation of cancer cells, both at the gene and cell level.”

One cup serving of grapes yields: 57 calories, 6 grams of protein, 16 grams of carbohydrates, 2 mg of sodium, 1 gram of dietary fiber and vitamins A and C.

One glass of red wine yields: 4 oz 85 calories, sodium 6 mg, total carbohydrates 2 g.

by: Kimberly Crocker Scardicchio

Global Literature Research

  1. Perspectives in Nutrition, Sixth Edition Wardlow, Hampl, DiSilvestro
  2. Fundementals of Anatomy & Physiology 6th Edition, F. Martini
  3. pubmed.gov PLoS ONE. 2007 Dec 19;2(12):e1326.
  4. http://www.awri.com.au/industry_development/wine_and_health/faqs/
  5. http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/ng.asp?n=66631-grape-genome-wine
  6. http://194.177.100.52/comunicati/doc/2350-gbChiusuraVinitalyUs07.doc
  7. Pubmed Jennifer Burns, Takao Yokota, Hiroshi Ashihara, Michael E. J. Lean, and Alan Crozier*Plant Products and Human Nutrition Group, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, IBLS, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, U.K., Department of Human Nutrition, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Queen Elizabeth Building, Glasgow, G31 2ER, U.K., Department of Biosciences, Teikyo University, Utsunomiya 320-8551, Japan, and Metabolic Biology Group, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ochanomizu University, Otsuka, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-8610, Japan                 

Tea’s Combat: Weightloss, Anxiety, Cholesterol, High bp

 “Kava kava Tea has been used to treat anxiety/nervous disorders, migraines, hyperactivity in children, insomnia, menstrual cramps, UTI and bladder problems.  Kava was used by the Germans in the 1890s for pharmaceuticals relating to blood pressure; before then, it was utilized by the Polynesians”, based on collected research at A 2 Z Health, Beauty and Fitness.

Today, Kava is used as a non-addictive way to sooth nerves and relax. In , small recommended doses, no side effects have been found for Kava. However, large dosages of Kava can have a sedative effect, which means that one should avoid alcohol, driving, and operating heavy machinery when taking heavy amounts. Talk to your doctor before consuming Kava tea if you have liver disease.

The “kava” lactones, which are the plant chemicals that produce the desired effects, have been studied in the use of relaxing stiff muscles by blocking signals in the user’s nerves.”

Additional safety studies have been done on Kava.  Negative research has been denounced by Polynesian countries who have used  the plant’s health benefit’s for 3000 years.  Leading others to put into question how the plant is processed and sold  in such countries as Germany and Switzerland.  It should also be noted that the Polynesian lifestyle has been recognized for their longevity, to which Kava has been a contributing factor.

Black Tea  is grown from a tree in higher elevations of China, India, Japan, Sri Lanka. The healing benefits of  black tea has been used throughout history for medicinal purposes. It helps relieve diarrhea, lowers cholesterol levels and helps prevent tooth decay. The tea has a therapeutic effect on gastric and intestinal illnesses because of its tannins. To get the maximum benefit for diarrhea let the tea steep for a full 15 minutes.

Black teaimproves circulation,  by opening the capillaries and normalizing blood pressure (bp).  Benefits are noticed by simply drinking 2 cups of black tea 2x’s a day for 3 weeks.  Additional benefits are contributed to the theophylline in black tea that helps improve cholesterol levels. It also has been known to expand the airways, improving on easier breathing for asthmatics.  Black tea also helps with preventing tooth decay due to the Fluoride, a trace element found in black tea, which strengthens tooth enamel.

Oolong Tea  is made by allowing the raw leaves to sun-wilted and bruise, which exposes their juices to the air, so the leaves oxidise and start to turn brown like a cut fruit. They oxidise only partially, giving them a rich, floral flavour. The tea is then dried fully; locking in the rich flavors that oolong tea is known to offer. Oolong’s unique drying process creates a tea that has many metabolic stimulating attributes, therefore, it comes in a wide range of tastes and aromas from teas very close in taste to green tea to those very close to black tea.

Health Benefits

Oolong tea burns over 157% more fat than Green Tea and has become the most popular tea designed to accelerate weigh loss!!!  Drinking two cups of Oolong tea every day helps shed stubborn pounds by boosting your metabolism and blocking the fattening effects of carbohydrates.

Large quantities of polyphenol in Oolong tea:

  • • promotes strong, healthy teeth;
    • improves cognitive functioning and mental well-being;
    • preventing eczema, allergies
    • clarifies your skin, giving it a healthy, radiant glow and
    • strengthens your immune system.
  • Studies show in Japan and USA that it may be an effective adjunct to treating Type 2 Diabetes.

Only three teas have been discussed, however, many varieties are known to bring a wide range of health benefits.  So end your day by unwinding with a cup of Chamomile tea. 

By: Kimberly Crocker

Literature Research

  • Safety of Kava
  • Anon. FDA Issues Warning on Kava Suplement. St. Louis Post-Dispatch, March 26, 2002.
  • Anon. Kava Use Not Linked to Liver Damage, Report Says. Vitamin Retailer, April 2002.
  • Anon. NNFA Releases Expert Analysis of Kava Safety. Whole Foods, April 2002.
  • Blumenthal, Mark. The Safety of Kava Questioned. Whole Foods, March 2002.
  • Duke, James A. Dr. Duke’s Essential Herbs. New York: St. Martin’s Paperbacks. 2001.

Feed Your Libido…

The best sex begins with great nutrition, according to international studies. Research on Maca is praised for: energy, strength, stamina, libido and sexual function. Doctors and Dietitians confirm that making certain minerals, vitamins and herbs as a part of your daily diet could add some zing to your step and encourage the Health Benefits of Sex.

Almonds, Basil, Vanilla are said to have a perfumes that entice and stimulate attraction.

Celery contains androsterone, a male hormone.  When men eat the celery, pheromones are released through the sweat glands, which then stimulates the female attraction. 

Dietary Source:  Truffles have the same effect!

Figs are fantastic finger foods to be shared between lovers.  They are high in Potassium, fiber, calcium and are all around heart healthy.

Garlic when crushed, releases an active enzyme called allicin.   Allicinassists in: erections, raises HDL cholesterol and fights off a variety of diseases.  The lack of an erection is typically due to reduced amounts of Nitric Oxide in the body.  Allicin inhibits iNOS (induced nitric oxide synthase) and allows nitric oxide to work better in the body.  Those with ED, may be showing a more serious problem that should be brought to your doctor’s attention.  

Dietary Source: Garlic clove: minced  in a vinaigrette,  tossed with vegetables, or rubbed onto a warm slice of baguette bread.

Maca is an herb/ (root) found in Peru, that has been studied for it’s health benefits. Maca is praised for: energy, strength, stamina, libido and sexual function (proven to correct ED). Similar to graham flavor, maca can be added in cookies, cakes, blender drinks, chips, or taken in a capsule (500mg 3x’s/day).

Potassium assists in the body’s electrolyte balance by pushing out excess sodium from cells. It promotes nerve transmission, muscle and nerve functions and a strong healthy heart. 

Dietary Source: fruits, vegetables and legumes.

Vitamin B.

  • Increase mood stability
  • Creates energy reduces headaches, (B-2)
  • Increase blood circulation and is a vessel dilator (B-3).
  • Improves fertility and promotes heart health, (B-12)
  • Reduce depression and stress (B-5 and B-7),
  • Reduces weakness, numbness, tingling in arms, improves on diabetes (B-6)

Dietary Source:  Fortified Cereal, Garbanzo Beans, Chicken, Banana, liver, meat,  eggs, spinach, tomato, potatoes.

Vitamin E   is an important body lubricant for all organs and muscles. Additionally, it keeps skin, eyes and the heart healthy (increasing HDL cholesterol). 

Dietary Source: Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), Avocado, Almonds, Olives, Nuts, Seeds

 Zinc plays an important part in the desire to reproduce. Including, organ function, increase of sex hormones (estrogen, androgen’s, testosterone) and sperm production.  

Dietary Source: Oysters, beef, pork, dark meat poultry, lamb, peanuts, legumes, (meat /egg protein enhance zinc). 

Ideal Dinner for Two

Substitutions

  • Alcohol: Sparkling Water with lime slice and after dinner coffee (aphrodisiac)  
  • Vegans: Lobster or Tofu instead of steak
  • Shell Fish: Prosciutto, Olives, Almonds, Bruschetta

AMBIANCE

Cover table with a white table linen and lightly scatter rose petals. Or, be adventurous, use fresh basil leaves and halved almonds, instead.  Place a low lit vanilla candle in center of table.

APPETIZERS: 

  • Begin with 1 of Glass of wine (don’t over do it or the plan will fail!) 
  •  Oyster on half shell (or mussels and claims)
  • Olives.

SALAD: 

  • Red Leaf lettuce,
  • Arugula,
  • Figs chopped
  • Avocado slices
  • Raspberry vinaigrette

DINNER: 

  • 4 ounce fillet Mignon top off with  sauteed onions in EVOO,
  • Mashed Potatoes,
  • Steamed green beans and thinly sliced carrot sticks (or Asparagus). Toss with 1tbsp of EVOO, 1 minced garlic clove and chopped almonds.
  • May serve with multi-grain bread.

DESSERT: 

  • Chocolate cake (made with a small amount of Maca),
  • 1 glass Spumante
  • Strawberries to enhance flavor of wine.

By:  Kimberly Crocker

 Global Literature Research

  3. Lonnerdal B. Dietary factors influencing zinc absorption. J Nutr 2000; 130: 1378 S.

Weightloss! Easy Diet, Keep it Off!

It’s official, Spring and weightloss is putting us on the scale!  The quickest way to lose weight is to consume VEGETABLES, thereby, giving your body the opportunity to work at breaking down the soluble fiber and nutrients, while increasing the body’s metabolism.  

4 servings Fruits,

5-6 servings Vegetables,

2 servings of 3 oz meat, poultry or fish,

2 servings EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil),

4-5 servings your choice:  grains, pasta, rice or bread,

1-2 servings skim or 1% milk

Additional studies published in “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” put forth the results of a randomized study that compared a “reduced fat diet (RF)” and a “reduced fat intake and increased fruit and vegetable intake (RF+FV)”.  The study concluded that the greater weightloss after six months was sharply noticed with the combination diet of RF+FV, by 1/3 more total weightloss!  “Reducing dietary energy density, particularly by combining increased fruit and vegetable intakes with decreased fat intake, is an effective strategy for managing body weight while controlling hunger.”  Additionally, they noted that maintenance of the weightloss was also more prevalent, “The 2 strategies for reducing energy density that were tested in this trial were both effective in reducing body weight and maintaining weight loss without prescribing limits for energy or fat intake.”  Other studies, such as the Dash Diet, TLC Diet and Mediterranean Diet concur that combining the RF+FV is the healthiest and most effective way to go. Don’t forget to exercise 20 minutes a day to encourage increased weightloss.

Find your Dietary Meal Plan here:

TRY SOME “NEW TO YOU” FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

FRUITS

Apricots: Dried, cooked, unsweetened 1/2 cup
Banana, raw 1 medium
Clementines, raw 2 small 
Grapefruit juice: Canned or frozen, unsweetened 3/4 cup
Fresh 3/4 cup Honeydew melon, Cantaloupe
Nectarine, raw 1 medium
Orange juice: 6 ounces
Peaches: Dried, cooked, unsweetened 1/2 cup
Pears: Dried, uncooked 1/2 cup, Pear Juice
Pomegranate, raw 1 medium
Prunes, dried, cooked, unsweetened 1/2 cup
Raspberries, Strawberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Gogi Berries,
Raisins, Craisins 1/4 cup
Watermelon, raw About 1 3/4 cups diced

Grilled Mango and Pineapple Sticks

VEGETABLES

Artichoke, globe (french), cooked 1 medium
Asparagus, cooked 1/2 cup, Raw 1 cup
Beans: Green, carrot sticks (steamed, add garlic, salt pepper, EVOO) 1/2 cup
Lentils (Lebanese or Jordanian style), cooked 1/2 cup
Cauliflower, cooked 1/2 cup, Raw 1 cup
Kale Chips (chopped, salt, pepper EVOO. 7 min. 400 bake oven) 1/2 cup
Corn, cooked 1/2 cup
Fennel cooked 1/2 cup, Raw 1cup
Grilled Portabella Mushrooms, 1/2 cup
Peas, green, cooked 1/2 cup, also frozen / thawed
Plantain, green or ripe, boiled 1 medium
Potato: Baked or boiled, with or w/o skin 1 medium
Pumpkin, cooked 1/2 cup
Rutabaga, cooked 1/2 cup
Spinach Salad with 4 olives 1/2 cup
Squash, winter, cooked, mashed 1/2 cup
Sweet-potato: Baked 1 medium or Boiled 1 medium
Cherry Tomatoes 4,Tomatoes: Raw 1 med., Tomato juice, canned 3/4 c.

 

By: Kimberly Crocker

Literature Research

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/558708

Define Carb Counting for Easy Weightloss

Counting carbs.   1 Carb count= 15 grams of Carbohydrate!  It is an easy way to do Nutritional Math at any given time.  FOR A COMPLETE LIST follow this link: http://dtc.ucsf.edu/pdfs/FoodLists.pdf

We can learn about counting carbs and balancing our dietary intake from those who suffer from diabetes.  Carb Counting is a meal planning method commonly used for people with diabetes, but can also be used in meal plansto achieve weightloss. Balancing the carbs you eat with your insulin doses can help you to achieve better blood glucose control.

Where Are the Carbs???
Carbs are found in the following foods and are part of the Carb Food Exchange when counting your daily running tab, reviewed under Nutritional Math.
Fruit, fruit juices (or any food that contains fruit or fruit juices)
Milk, ice cream, yogurt (or any food that contains milk)
Breads, cereals, crackers, grains, pasta, rice
Starchy vegetables (such as corn, potatoes, peas or beans)
Sweets (such as cake, candy, cookies, pie)
Sugary foods (such as regular soda, fruit drinks, sherbet)
Beer, wine and mixed drinks

All carbs are created equal!

It is the amount of carb you eat during a meal or snack that is important, not the type of carb.  For example:  One cup of vanilla yogurt that has 30 grams of carbs and a sandwich with 30 grams of carbs,  

 both effect blood glucose levels in the same way.

Counting Carbs can be performed one of two ways:

  1. Carb servings 
  2. Carb grams.

One carb serving = roughly 15 grams of carb. 

A gram (g) is a unit of measure used for foods.                                                              Either method can be used and you will also need to recognize portion sizes.  For quick and easy daily help check the glycemic index for an exact number per food serving.

Check you food label under “Total Carbohydrate” to confirm the # of grams in a serving of food.  The general rule of thumb is 1 carb=15 grams (more or less).

1 serving or 1 apple is = 19 carbs

1 serving or 1 orange = 15 carbs

1 serving or 1 cup peas = 11 carbs

1 serving or 1 slice multi-grain bread = 13 carbs

1 serving or 6 oz lean meat, fish = 0 carbs

The foods in the groups listed below contain about 15 grams of carb per serving or choice. Each listed choices will affect your blood glucose level the same.

The following servings are:  one carb choice = 15 grams of carb

  • 1/2-cup orange juice from the Fruit group
    3/4 cup of cereal from the Bread/Starch group
    1 cup homemade coleslaw from the Vegetable group.

Using Grams, instead of counting servings, allows you to add up the grams of carb in a meal or snack. Grams are located on food labels. Your meal plan may suggest specific amounts of carb grams at each meal or snack.

NUTRITIONAL MATH

In a  2000 calorie diet, 1000 calories should come from carbohydrates. 

There are 4 calories per 1 gram of carbohydrate.

1000 cal/4 cal =250 g carb daily allotment.

250 g/ 15 g = 17 carbs

 Count 17 Carbs each dayin your diet to equal the 1000 calories of carbs.

Now, the other 1000 calories will need to come from Protein and Fat.

35% Fat or 1000 x .35=350 Fat calories

65% Protein or 1000 x .65 or 650 Protein calories

1000 Calories Carbohydrates

350 Calories Fat

   +650 Calories Protein                                                                                                 Total     2000 Calories Daily Intake

FYI  Generally speaking, the size of a sugar molecule that is in fruit, vegetables (fructose) and milk (galactose) is smaller and easier for your body to break down.  Sugar (sucrose), corn syrup and also white bread have a  complexed sugar molecule that is harder for your body to breakdown.  For example a chocolate bar is 30grams or 2 carb count.  Choose Milk, Fruit, Vegetable, Multigrain bread which have a lower 1 carb food exchange as opposed to the chips and candy bars which will have 3 carb food exchange.  It’s about optimizing your nutrient intake.  17 carbs go fast!  This is especially critical for those with Diabetes who will have an over production of insulin to do the job.

For more info

http://www.aspiruslibrary.org/patient_ed/pdf/dec/pe-dec-019.pdf

http://lowcarbmeal.info/

By: Kimberly Crocker