Recommended Reading 09/03/18

It's recommended reading time!

First up is some environmental news..we all know that plastic is everywhere, "How much is there?"

Studies show its possible that by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish.   Invasive species also ride the plastic flotilla across the oceans creating havoc on native habitats.  Did you know that even flushing used contact lens are adding to the micro plastic problem we are facing?  On the bright side researchers have found a giant deep-sea coral reef 160 miles off the coast of South Carolina.  Named the "Richardson Ridge" it is almost 80 miles long and full of healthy coral. 

For anyone who thinks vegan/plant-based diet followers are weak and have no strength, think again, 34 year old Strongman Patrik Baboumian broke the world yoke carry record: 1214 lbs carried for 32 feet!  You can an interview with Rich Roll here:"Why compassion is his strength"

We've been told we should take an aspirin a day for preventing heart disease, Should we?

What about the information on "hidden dangers of beans, legumes and whole grains because of lectins. Listen to Dr Gregers' take on "The Plant Paradox is Wrong"

For more video pleasure: 5 Nutrition Myths You Might Believe

Way to go California: Hospitals may soon have to offer plant-based meal options.

Food for Thought: Does Sugar Cause Diabetes?

For some real motivation: 31 in 31, transform yourself to be a high performer in life.

Check out "Macka B" on "Health is Wealth"

To end this, something pretty freaky: AI-"bring the dead BACK to life"

Don't forget for all your CBD Oil needs: kristenlee.hempworx.com

BELIEVE IN

KINDNESS

Have a great week.

Judd

"It's Whats For Dinner" Jackfruit Carnitas

Jackfruit Carnitas

Jackfruit is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world — one fruit can weigh between 10 and 100 pounds and contain hundreds of seeds that are rich in protein, potassium, calcium, and iron.

The fruit known as a jackfruit is being hailed as a "miracle" crop that could save millions from starvation.  You can follow this link for more information. 

Here's my favorite recipe using jackfruit.  With the right seasonings, you will think you are eating pulled pork!  You can find canned jackfruit at your local Asian Market.

JACKFRUIT CARNITAS

1-2 tbs coconut oil

1 small onion diced

2-- cloves crushed garlic

Homemade spice blend:

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp chipotle seasoning

1/4 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp oregano

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp sea salt

pinch of cinnamon

1 tsp lime juice

1 tbs maple syrup

1 tsp Bragg's or Coconut Amino acids

In a large skillet, on medium heat saute onions and crushed garlic.

Stir until onions are clear. Add lime juice, maple syrup and Bragg's.

Drain and rinse jackfruit, break apart and shred fruit ( like pulled pork)

Add spice mix and fruit, stirring to completely for good coverage.

The fruit will start to brown and liquid will dissolve.

Ready to roll into a burrito with black beans and salsa or guacamole. 

Serves well with sweet potato fries.

For a Jackfruit "Pulled Pork" variation:

Wet sauce:

3 tbs tomato paste

1 tsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp oil

1/2 tsp tamarind paste or sweet chili sauce 

1/4 cup water

2 tsp maple syrup

Add sauce to cooking fruit and spices and simmer until ready to eat.

Serves well on toasted buns, with coleslaw made with "Vegenaise or Just Mayo".

 For nutritional information see: Jackfruit

BELIEVE IN

KINDNESS

Have a great week.

Judd

The Importance of Nitric Oxide

I'm not talking about Nitrous Oxide or "laughing gas".

Nitric Oxide is a small molecule which is produced by every cell in our body and helps keeps blood vessels healthy and regulates blood pressure.  It also helps in the immune and nervous systems and lessens diseases such as chronic inflammation, cancer, etc.  Nitric oxide is released from the inner layers of cells (endothelium) of our blood vessels. By relaxing the vessels it  keeps them flexible, allowing them to dilate, which boosts blood flow and controls blood pressure.  As we age, our cells produce less nitric oxide, which contributes to higher risk of chronic diseases.  That's why it is important to consume foods high in nitrates.  Recent lab research has shown that nitric oxide is involved in the respiratory system by helping red blood cells to release the oxygen they carry to the body's tissues.  Because it increases blood flow, it delivers more oxygen to our muscles for increased stamina, improving work production, etc.

Here are some foods to boost Nitric Oxide;
*Arugula, This bitter, peppery green is the highest source of nitrates known!
*Beets, beetroots are loaded with nitrates.
*Spinach, want to be strong like Popeye? eat yours fresh!
*Citrus, containing high amounts of Vitamin C, they protect your nitric oxide molecules from free radicals.
*Pomegranate, the polyphenols boost nitric oxide and as a anti-inflammatory it reduces oxidative stress.
*Walnuts, being high in Vitamin E they keep the blood flowing.
*Watermelon,  loaded with the amino acid L-citrulline,  which is ultimately converted into nitric oxide.  The rind is where you find the most amount of l-citrulline.

This is a great video from Dr. Michael Greger on creating your own "V8" juice smoothie for a daily way to boost your nitric oxide production. See: Dr. Greger In The Kitchen

Have a great week.
Be kind.
Judd

The Greatness of Grapes

The Greatness of Grapes

Grapes were first cultivated in the Middle East over 8000 years ago.  Now over 72 million tons are grown worldwide every year,(producing 7.2 trillion gals of wine!)  They are a very good source of phtyonutrients, mainly phenols and polyphenols and also packed full of vitamins such as; vitamin C, K, a and B6. They are also rich in minerals such as; potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and salt. Being that they are high in fiber and have a high water content, they are the perfect food to eat during the hot summer months.  Throw some in the freezer and enjoy a frozen treat!

Here are a few reasons you should eat grapes:

*Helps cure asthma and migraines.

*Prevents heart attacks and lowers cholesterol levels.

*Strengths bones and helps to prevent osteoporosis.

*Provides relief from constipation and indigestion. 

*Boosts immune system and prevents fatigue.

*Reduces the risk of kidney stones.

*Prevents loss of vision and macular degeneration.

*Improves brain function and prevents Alzheimer's disease ( For an informative podcast on Alzheimer's solution PLEASE listen to): Dr's Dean and Ayesha Sherzai   

A diet that is rich in fruit and vegetables helps in reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and obesity.  

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd  

The Power of Dates

Dates have been used as sweeteners, snacks and and even used as breaking "fast" by Muslims according to their culture.  By doing this it helps in not overeating of food once the fast is over.  Dates are easily digested, allowing our bodies to make full use of all the minerals and nutrients they contain.  The dietary fiber helps move waste through the colon reducing the risks of colon cancer.  The soluble and insoluble fiber and amino acids help to improve and maintain a healthy digestive system.  The iron content in dates is a major component of hemoglobin in our red blood cells, which helps in maintaining healthy oxygen levels in the blood.  Potassium, which is a an electrolyte, in dates helps control heart rate and blood pressure.  All the B vitamins such as carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are absorbed into the retina to maintain light-filtering functions and protect against macular degeneration.  

Despite all these benefits, one cup of dates has almost 30 mg's of fructose sugar , but have a low glycemic index number which can maintain blood sugar level significantly.  Dates are a whole food, but by weight they are 80% sugar. Fruit Loops are 40% sugar, but not a whole food but highly processed along with many other "nonfood" products.  Israeli scientists did some research on the subject and the results were astonishing: Dates are fantastic!  Some consider dates are the most ideal food!

By just eating 3 dates per day here some of the many benefits obtained:

*Improved digestive health- the high soluble fiber draws water into the digestive tract.

*Treat and prevent anemia- they are a great source of iron which reduces the effects of anemia.

*Bone, blood and immune system health- keeps bones strong with magnesium, manganese and selenium. Diets rich in selenium are known to prevent cancers.

*Heart health- the potassium helps to reduce strokes, heart attacks and lowers LDL cholesterol.

*Energy boosts- being filled with natural sugars and fiber keeps energy levels up without the crash.

Here's a quick, easy and raw recipe for an energy shot that I use all the time: AROO Spartan Balls.

For some more information on the "Power of Dates" here's a great article from Organic Facts.

AROO Spartan Balls

Food for Thought

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd