July 22, 2010
Supplements: Protein and Grape Seed Extract
I have become more aware that my diet is nutrient deficient. Of particular concern is the fact that I get very little protein because I don’t eat meat. My ex-bf, L, is also a vegetarian and he has been having some health issues of late related to his diet. According to him, he has the beginnings of retinal detachment because of a lack of protein consumption.
This has me VERY worried (about him and about my own nutritional needs). I have decided to get most of my protein from protein shakes. I picked a premade chocolate protein shake to start with, but next month I think I’ll be brave and try using the protein powder in my own smoothies.
I also plan to pick up a bottle of grape seed extract. This herbal supplement may help smooth skin and it protects against skin cancer. The real stuff is chalk full of antioxidants, but I may need a way to get my daily dose of proanthocyanidins even when grapes aren’t in season. An article I read stated that people should have 150-300 mg daily. I currently consume 0 mg daily. No bueno.
July 8, 2010
Beginner Chef: Cabbage Rolls
Here’s a new recipe I’m planning to try this weekend. I’ll probably modify it a bit because it seems to call for an unhealthy amount of cheese!
Ingredients:
- 1 large cabbage
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 tomato
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh basil or thyme
1. Core cabbage and place in boiling water for 5 minutes.
2. Set aside and let leaves cool.
3. Stir rice, mozzarella cheese, and herbs together in a bowl.
4. Place 3 tablespoons in the center of the leaf and roll it up (fold the edges as you roll).
5. Preheat oven to 350. Place rolls in baking dish.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
7. Dice tomato and sprinkle pieces on top.
8. Bake for 10 min and serve immediately.
July 1, 2010
Beginner Chef: Carrot Salad
This is a really simple side dish that adds some bright color to a meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup plain yogurt
Stir and serve! Simple!
June 28, 2010
Vegetariano
I’ve been a vegetarian for about two years now and it’s been really easy for me to find alternatives to meat. [Nenhuma carne means no meat in Spanish]
If you doubt a veggie diet, try it for a week because it’s not so bad. Veggie or not, we all need plenty of vitamins.
B12 is often overlooked by more popular ones (such as calcium and vitamin C), but it’s also important to get plenty of it in your diet. Symptoms of deficiency include headaches, fatigue, poor memory, anemia, and irritability.
B12 can be found in:
- Alfalfa
- Nori (seaweed)
- Lentils
- Algae (often in spirulina and green drinks)
