There have been several e-mails and conversations about the new (or old-time) remedies that use apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has been used for many ailments. Here are just a few...
menstruation
sore throat
asthma
diarrhea
heartburn
insomnia
arthritis
weight loss
and much more...
I know some people that swear by it as a treatment for the list of ailments above. I have used it myself. My only intention here is to introduce (and guide) readers to alternative forms of treating oneself. When I first heard about this I said to myself, "That is pure poppycock" and I meant it. Then I stumbled upon a used book touting all the amazing benefits of vinegar (RAW, organic, unfiltered with the "mother") and honey. Wow. The list was long and the case studies compelling.
Now you can find Raw, unfiltered, organic apple cider vinegar (I tried the regular stuff and it just gives tummy aches. Bragg's is the brand I use) in condiments and on health food store shelves.
This is considered a folk remedy. Some people swear by it and others are firmly against it. If you are interested about learning more there are several books available. Here are a couple
Cider Vinegar by Cyril Scott
Apple cider Vinegar by P. Bragg and P. Bragg
Do I think these remedies may have potential? I am a huge fan of fermentation and it's effect on one's health. Raw ACV is fermented apples. When we have an abundance of good bacteria in the gut it shows in our health. Some things I like to ferment regularly are :
Sourdoughs (Bread, pancakes, cookies, and more)
Milk (yogurt, cheese and sour cream)
Fire Cider
sauerkraut (WAY better than the nasty store bought kind...it tastes like pickles!!!)
These, when eaten, are pre and pro biotics. So, do I believe the power of ACV fold remedy. Yes, as much as I do in healthy eating and lifestyle choices. There is so much good health in the lost art of fermentation.
I will post more on the importance of fermented foods. You may find my recipes for these ferments in our new cookbook that should be available by December. Keep a look out!!
"He who has health has hope. He who has hope has everything." Proverb quote
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
Heavenly dessert!!!
So...after several conversations with friends and family I decided I HAD to post this amazing recipe that I have been using for the past year. It is sooooo delicious, sooooo easy and it's healthy to boot. I get the large bag of walnuts from Sams or Costco and I like to use dark cocoa powder. Medjool dates sound exotic and hard to find but they can be found at the local grocers or at health food stores. This DESSERT is filling and fulfilling with good fats, healthy sugars and minimal effort. It's worth it to try it just once...trust me.
Flourless Chocolate Cake
~Chef Cornbleet
adaptations and options by Jami McQuivey
Equipment: Food processor
Ingredients
3 c. walnuts
¼ t. sea salt
20 pitted medjool dates (to pit these it takes 2 minutes for all of them...fast!)
2/3 c. unsweetened Cocoa powder or carob
1 ½ t. vanilla
1-1½ t. water
Place walnuts and salt in food processor fitted with “S” blade and process until finely ground. Add dates, cocoa, and vanilla. Process until smooth and begins to stick together. Add water and process briefly.
Option 1: Transfer to a 9 in round cake pan and press. Can top with raspberries.
Option 2: Roll into balls for on the go dessert/snack.
Option 3: Use almond, raspberry, amaretto or any other flavor in place of vanilla
Will keep 3-4 days in fridge or several weeks in freezer. Bring to room temp before serving.
Flourless Chocolate Cake
~Chef Cornbleet
adaptations and options by Jami McQuivey
Equipment: Food processor
Ingredients
3 c. walnuts
¼ t. sea salt
20 pitted medjool dates (to pit these it takes 2 minutes for all of them...fast!)
2/3 c. unsweetened Cocoa powder or carob
1 ½ t. vanilla
1-1½ t. water
Place walnuts and salt in food processor fitted with “S” blade and process until finely ground. Add dates, cocoa, and vanilla. Process until smooth and begins to stick together. Add water and process briefly.
Option 1: Transfer to a 9 in round cake pan and press. Can top with raspberries.
Option 2: Roll into balls for on the go dessert/snack.
Option 3: Use almond, raspberry, amaretto or any other flavor in place of vanilla
Will keep 3-4 days in fridge or several weeks in freezer. Bring to room temp before serving.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Open for questions...
I have posted on a few different subjects that people had questions on. I thought it would be a great idea to open the blog up for any questions or concerns you might have regarding nutrition, health, cooking, herbs, fitness, lifestyle, etc.
I have been in this field for many years and if I can't help I will find someone or something to lead you in the right direction. You can post your questions or topics here or e-mail me, Jamileemc@hotmail.com (state if you'd like to remain anonymous), and I will research and answer as best I can. Thanks for the e-mails and encouragement thus far.
I have been in this field for many years and if I can't help I will find someone or something to lead you in the right direction. You can post your questions or topics here or e-mail me, Jamileemc@hotmail.com (state if you'd like to remain anonymous), and I will research and answer as best I can. Thanks for the e-mails and encouragement thus far.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Ahhh, the joy of sleep!!!
I remember when I was a little girl I hated naps. I was sure that the moment I fell asleep the party began. Face painting, pony rides, popcorn, the works. I still struggle with that at times. What am I going to miss?...I should get this or that finished?...I'll get to sleep right after this show...It's Friday, I can sleep in..It's always the same thing. I get tired and then give myself excuses as to why I CAN"T go to bed early. When this happens (and it often does) I have to remember to tell myself why I need to sleep...
1)I get short tempered-no body wants to get too close...I'm Jekyll and Hyde.
2)Sleep reduces stress.
3) Sleep reduces cravings AND lose weight!
4)Sleep helps memory...hey, has anyone seen my keys?
5) Sleep can help extend life
6)improves concentration...now where was I?
Those are just a few of the reasons BESIDES the fact that it feels wonderful! Why do we fight, avoid or neglect the wonders of sleep. We all have our different reasons but our basic need is the same.
Now many of you are asking yourself...How can I improve my sleep? I have some suggestions but one thing remains...PRIORITIZE.
Suggestion 1
GO to bed the same time every night!!! Make your room quiet (no TV's or work) Make your room dark, cool and quiet.
Suggestion 2
Eat a light dinner. Many of us eat late and heavy. This disturbs sleep AND digestive patterns. Avoid stimulants like caffeine (soda, chocolate, coffee,). Instead of eating before bed make a habit of enjoying a relaxing, soothing cup of chamomile tea.
Suggestion 3
Activities that are appropriate before bed to help prepare the body for a good nights sleep include reading (something mellow), relaxing music and, my personal favorite, writing in my journal. Journalling helps refocus the mind and reflect. I, also, keep a pad of paper by my bed for last minute thoughts, reminders and to-do's.
Interesting fact...Before the light bulb was invented we slept an average of 10 hours per night. Today, almost 2/3 of us get less than the recommended 8 hours of sleep!!! (National Sleep Foundation)
Quote of the day:
Watch your thoughts, they become your words
Watch your words for they become action.
Watch your actions, for they become habit.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.
Assignment: Turn everything off...TV, Phone, lights, brain, and enjoy a wonderful nights rest!!!
1)I get short tempered-no body wants to get too close...I'm Jekyll and Hyde.
2)Sleep reduces stress.
3) Sleep reduces cravings AND lose weight!
4)Sleep helps memory...hey, has anyone seen my keys?
5) Sleep can help extend life
6)improves concentration...now where was I?
Those are just a few of the reasons BESIDES the fact that it feels wonderful! Why do we fight, avoid or neglect the wonders of sleep. We all have our different reasons but our basic need is the same.
Now many of you are asking yourself...How can I improve my sleep? I have some suggestions but one thing remains...PRIORITIZE.
Suggestion 1
GO to bed the same time every night!!! Make your room quiet (no TV's or work) Make your room dark, cool and quiet.
Suggestion 2
Eat a light dinner. Many of us eat late and heavy. This disturbs sleep AND digestive patterns. Avoid stimulants like caffeine (soda, chocolate, coffee,). Instead of eating before bed make a habit of enjoying a relaxing, soothing cup of chamomile tea.
Suggestion 3
Activities that are appropriate before bed to help prepare the body for a good nights sleep include reading (something mellow), relaxing music and, my personal favorite, writing in my journal. Journalling helps refocus the mind and reflect. I, also, keep a pad of paper by my bed for last minute thoughts, reminders and to-do's.
Interesting fact...Before the light bulb was invented we slept an average of 10 hours per night. Today, almost 2/3 of us get less than the recommended 8 hours of sleep!!! (National Sleep Foundation)
Quote of the day:
Watch your thoughts, they become your words
Watch your words for they become action.
Watch your actions, for they become habit.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.
Assignment: Turn everything off...TV, Phone, lights, brain, and enjoy a wonderful nights rest!!!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
I don't like vegetables?!?!?!?
I met a man a while ago who exclaimed, "I just don't like vegetables." This made me pause for several reasons. I'll only write about 2.
1)Vegetables should be a staple in the diet because of all the vitamins, minerals, antioxidant and phyto-nutrients to name a VERY few.
2) There are soooooo many vegetables to choose from that to negate an entire group of food is plain silly.
Let's go through the common types of vegetables
Bulbs- Garlic, onions, chives, etc.
Fruit-Cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, peppers, squash, etc.
inflorescent- artichokes, broccoli, cauliflower and more
Leaf- cabbage, kale, collards, spinach, etc.
Root- Beets, carrots, radishes, turnips, etc
Stalk- Celery, fennel, kohlrabi
Edible pods- Green beans, peas, sugar snaps, etc.
Tubers- potato, sweet potato, jicama, yam and more
Fungus- mushrooms
Now, can you imagine not liking vegetables?...any vegetables? These amazing foods should comprise 60% of our diet. Preparing them raw, lightly steamed, sauteed, stir fried, marinated, baked and boiled are just places to begin.
As a special treat to my boys I tell them that they can choose any vegetable they want and we'll learn about preparing it, it's health benefits, etc. It's fun and educational for all of us
Assignment: Pick a vegetable that you don't know much about or have never had and give it a try. The internet is a great resource for recipes and ideas. We've found some of our new favorite vegetables this way. We love raw jicama peeled, sliced and eaten.
Quote: "Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore." Anre Gide
1)Vegetables should be a staple in the diet because of all the vitamins, minerals, antioxidant and phyto-nutrients to name a VERY few.
2) There are soooooo many vegetables to choose from that to negate an entire group of food is plain silly.
Let's go through the common types of vegetables
Bulbs- Garlic, onions, chives, etc.
Fruit-Cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, peppers, squash, etc.
inflorescent- artichokes, broccoli, cauliflower and more
Leaf- cabbage, kale, collards, spinach, etc.
Root- Beets, carrots, radishes, turnips, etc
Stalk- Celery, fennel, kohlrabi
Edible pods- Green beans, peas, sugar snaps, etc.
Tubers- potato, sweet potato, jicama, yam and more
Fungus- mushrooms
Now, can you imagine not liking vegetables?...any vegetables? These amazing foods should comprise 60% of our diet. Preparing them raw, lightly steamed, sauteed, stir fried, marinated, baked and boiled are just places to begin.
As a special treat to my boys I tell them that they can choose any vegetable they want and we'll learn about preparing it, it's health benefits, etc. It's fun and educational for all of us
Assignment: Pick a vegetable that you don't know much about or have never had and give it a try. The internet is a great resource for recipes and ideas. We've found some of our new favorite vegetables this way. We love raw jicama peeled, sliced and eaten.
Quote: "Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore." Anre Gide
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Nature walk extreme...
I was looking for a way to learn more about herbs when I stumbled upon an Herbalist, Trilby. I was invited to attend one of her "Herb Walks" South of Des Moines. I knew this was something my son, Elijah, and I have really been in to lately so we decided to go. It was amazing. I am constantly amazed that we are surrounded by so many things that go unnoticed.
I am the lady that will take 2 shirts on their way to Goodwill and make a dress out of them instead. I love frugality and conservation. When I started really wondering about plants my curiosity took me in a whole new direction.
Common things that we over look that are great sources of nourishment, medicine, and free are:
1) Dandelions! Yes, that pesky weed that pops up in the yard that no matter the amount of chemicals you spray on it comes back. STOP! This plan has been used world wide for all of its parts.
The leaves: when young are tender and nutritious. They are in the store blends in the salad section. When harvesting make sure that you are eating one's that have NOT been sprayed!
The flower: When it is not quite open you can saute like a mushroom and add to salads. When the flower opens pinch the top off really close so there's no "milk" on it and throw it into salad for a nutritional, colorful addition to salad.
The root: Can be roasted or not and used in teas. This is very nourishing and is a great (when roasted) coffee substitute.
The milk: That's the yucky tasting part of the plant but I recently heard that it's great on wounds...I'll check that out.
2)Plantain: This is the little weed that is used as a a tea, poultice and salad green. Again, the younger they are the tastier. These are also great lightly steamed and sauteed.
3) Red raspberry: Aside from producing wonderful berries the leaves are a great women's tonic when used as a tea. First, they are dried and they steeped. It's so yummy and is widely purchased and used.
4) Red Clover: This plant makes a wonderful tea and is known for it's high anti-oxidants (anti-cancer) properties. Red clover grows freely along the highway. I suggest not harvesting plants that are close than 10-15 feet from the road.
These are just some of the plants that we have FREELY at our disposal. It's was fun when I started looking at my world through Elijah's eyes. The enthusiasm is contagious. We explored, Nettles, milk weed, Queen Anne's lace, creeping charlie , cup plant, and many more on this herb walk. What a fun thing to know!!!!!
A little side note: You may want to be selective with who you tell about your new weed eating lifestyle. This is a suggestion from "the lady who eats weeds".
Assignment: Walk around your home and learn what plants, weeds, and flowers you have, what their properties are and how to use them. For example: Marigolds are wonderful in salads, easy to grow, beautiful, and have lots of medicinal uses. It's also good to know if you have something poisonous or toxic. Being present and aware in our lives and spaces can enrich our lives and our spirits.
Quote: "We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses." Abraham Lincoln
I am the lady that will take 2 shirts on their way to Goodwill and make a dress out of them instead. I love frugality and conservation. When I started really wondering about plants my curiosity took me in a whole new direction.
Common things that we over look that are great sources of nourishment, medicine, and free are:
1) Dandelions! Yes, that pesky weed that pops up in the yard that no matter the amount of chemicals you spray on it comes back. STOP! This plan has been used world wide for all of its parts.
The leaves: when young are tender and nutritious. They are in the store blends in the salad section. When harvesting make sure that you are eating one's that have NOT been sprayed!
The flower: When it is not quite open you can saute like a mushroom and add to salads. When the flower opens pinch the top off really close so there's no "milk" on it and throw it into salad for a nutritional, colorful addition to salad.
The root: Can be roasted or not and used in teas. This is very nourishing and is a great (when roasted) coffee substitute.
The milk: That's the yucky tasting part of the plant but I recently heard that it's great on wounds...I'll check that out.
2)Plantain: This is the little weed that is used as a a tea, poultice and salad green. Again, the younger they are the tastier. These are also great lightly steamed and sauteed.
3) Red raspberry: Aside from producing wonderful berries the leaves are a great women's tonic when used as a tea. First, they are dried and they steeped. It's so yummy and is widely purchased and used.
4) Red Clover: This plant makes a wonderful tea and is known for it's high anti-oxidants (anti-cancer) properties. Red clover grows freely along the highway. I suggest not harvesting plants that are close than 10-15 feet from the road.
These are just some of the plants that we have FREELY at our disposal. It's was fun when I started looking at my world through Elijah's eyes. The enthusiasm is contagious. We explored, Nettles, milk weed, Queen Anne's lace, creeping charlie , cup plant, and many more on this herb walk. What a fun thing to know!!!!!
A little side note: You may want to be selective with who you tell about your new weed eating lifestyle. This is a suggestion from "the lady who eats weeds".
Assignment: Walk around your home and learn what plants, weeds, and flowers you have, what their properties are and how to use them. For example: Marigolds are wonderful in salads, easy to grow, beautiful, and have lots of medicinal uses. It's also good to know if you have something poisonous or toxic. Being present and aware in our lives and spaces can enrich our lives and our spirits.
Quote: "We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses." Abraham Lincoln
Monday, June 7, 2010
New Classes!!!
For those of you near me I am starting up a few classes in the fall that you might be interested in. Classes are going to be held at Releve Studios in Oskaloosa. Here's the present schedule I am teaching. (I am sorry if this post doesn't apply to you)...These classes are on Wednesday mornings.
8:30- 9:15 Golden Oldies~ This is for the older adult or the pregnant lady (it's what I did when I was pregnant...loved it and bounced back)
9:30-10:15 Zumba-Fun dance and cardio!
10:30-11:15 Vinyasa Yoga-Combines postures with the the flow of the breath.
If you're in town registration will be soon!!! This is a great way to get out and dedicate 45 min. to yourself without the kids, work or stress. Just time to have fun!
8:30- 9:15 Golden Oldies~ This is for the older adult or the pregnant lady (it's what I did when I was pregnant...loved it and bounced back)
9:30-10:15 Zumba-Fun dance and cardio!
10:30-11:15 Vinyasa Yoga-Combines postures with the the flow of the breath.
If you're in town registration will be soon!!! This is a great way to get out and dedicate 45 min. to yourself without the kids, work or stress. Just time to have fun!
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