Grace O

August 15, 2017

Published by Grace O

Jade Rollers Are Cool Anti-Aging Tools

When I was in China recently, I discovered a well-kept beauty secret of the elite – Jade Rollers. Jade rollers as beauty aids have been around since the 7th Century in China, but they are relatively new to the U.S. market. If you’ve stayed up too late, had a little too much to drink, or just had a stressful week, that can take a toll on your face. After long flights and time differences, I found myself struggling to get back on California time, and my face was puffy from losing sleep. When I tried my new jade roller, it […]

July 24, 2017

Published by Grace O

We’re Going Nuts for Plant-Based Milks

The dairy aisle used to be so simple—whole milk, low fat milk, non-fat milk, half and half, cream and maybe goat’s milk if it was a health food store. With the growing number of people with lactose intolerance, or those following a vegan diet, the consumption of plant-based ‘milks’ has been expanding by about 11 percent each year since 1999. Consumption of cow’s milk has declined by 25 percent since 1975, according to Cooking Light Magazine. Cow’s milk was for decades considered an almost perfect food with 8g protein, 460 mg potassium (13% of the RDA), 35% of the RDA […]

July 4, 2017

Published by Grace O

4 Super Reasons to Eat Strawberries

Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants, which help defend cell structures in the body and protect the body’s organs. Strawberries are second only to plums as the richest fruit in phenols and antioxidants, and are especially high in cancer- and heart disease-fighting flavonoids, quercetin, catechin, and kaempferol. Strawberries can offer enhanced protection against crippling inflammation-related diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Strawberries have shown an ability to inhibit tumor growth and to slow the progress of tumors as they begin to develop, according to a study using rats with esophageal cancer. In a study done by the Institute of Biochemistry in Ancona, Italy, researchers found that when […]

June 26, 2017

Published by Grace O

What’s for Breakfast? Quinoa Porridge and Carrot Quiche

For those of us who grew up in Southeast Asia, big, savory breakfasts were the norm. A popular breakfast staple was smoked fish with scrambled eggs and tomato salad. Fried rice, fried eggs, sausages called longaniza (a bit like Spanish chorizo), and rice porridge with fish or meatballs were also regularly on the menu in most homes, but not in mine. My father, who was a physician and very health-conscious, always ate plain oatmeal, and he insisted we eat it, too, without berries, bananas or raisins. We reluctantly complied, but today I am grateful for all of my father’s health […]

June 20, 2017

Published by Grace O

Garlic and Rosemary White Bean Spread

Garlic and rosemary are two ingredients with powerful nutrient profiles. Garlic has been used for centuries as an anti-microbial agent and for its heart health properties, due to the naturally occurring sulfuric compound allicin. Additionally, rosemary contains compounds that may improve concentration and stimulate the immune system. Together, these Mediterranean flavors blend nicely in this simple white bean spread perfect for sandwiches or crudité platters. YIELDS 2.5 Cups Ingredients 1 3/4 cup cooked cannelloni beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed) 1/4 cup olive oil, plus additional for topping 2 Tbs. white wine vinegar 6 large garlic cloves, peeled and […]

May 29, 2017

Published by Grace O

Are You Game to Try Exotic Meats?

Our Stone Age (Paleolithic) ancestors subsisted on whatever they could catch, gather, pluck or hunt. Animals that they caught for food were naturally grass fed, lean and high in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins and cancer-fighting selenium, yet low in inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. Much of today’s “factory farmed” animals for food are fed grain and pumped with antibiotics, steroids and growth hormones, all of which can be toxic in certain amounts. Eating wild game is a delicious experience. Meats like venison, elk, bison, wild boar, rabbit and ostrich are highly flavorful, lean and full of FoodTrients. Here are just […]

May 22, 2017

Published by Grace O

Fish and Shellfish Are a Great Catch for Health

Fish and shellfish are great immune-boosting foods, so be sure to include lots of them during flu season and throughout the year when they are in season. Oysters, lobsters, crabs, and clams contain significant amounts of the trace element, selenium, which is protective against cancer and helps white blood cells produce cytokines, proteins that help clear the body of flu viruses. Wild salmon, mackerel, and herring are rich in omega-3 fats, which reduce inflammation, increasing airflow and protecting the lungs from respiratory infections. Crab provides the selenium in this dish while garlic brings a host of impressive health benefits to […]

May 21, 2017

Published by Grace O

Spinach Strawberry Booster Smoothie

When you need a quick boost, this simple and delicious smoothie is sure to hit the spot. An easy on-the-go breakfast or post-workout treat, this healthful beverage is packed with antioxidants for recovery and protein for satiety and energy. Smoothies with greens in them don’t have to taste gritty; instead be sure to flavor your greens appropriately with the essence of vanilla and fruit. Balancing a smoothie with protein is key but there are options other than protein powder to do the trick. Whole food sources such as yogurt offers protein while choosing a plain variety of either dairy or […]

May 21, 2017

Published by Grace O

Crunch It! Lemon Tahini Kale Chips

Try these Lemon Tahini Kale Chips next time you’re in search of a crunchy snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Fresh flavors and crunchy textures combine to create a delicious transportable snack that will help you feel energized and satisfied until your next meal. You can enjoy an extra serving of nutritious disease-preventing cruciferous vegetables by packing these kale chips along in your lunchbox, purse, or backpack. Because the kale stays raw, its detoxifying chlorophyll is preserved. SERVES 2-3 Ingredients 1 bunch (about 8 leaves) kale, ribs removed and torn into large, chip-sized pieces 2 Tbs. tahini 1 lemon, zest […]