UB Cookin'

[Amigoo]

Re: "Super Immunity" by Joel Fuhrman, M.D., 2011, pp. 62-64

"Green vegetables such as kale, cabbage, collards, and broccoli plus some nongreen vegetables such as cauliflower and turnips are called 'cruciferous' vegetables ... All vegetables contain protective micronutrients and phytochemicals, but cruciferous vegetables have a unique composition ... sulfur-containing compounds that convert into isothiocyanates (ITCs) ... As cruciferous vegetable intake increases, breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers decrease accordingly."

This chapter contains much more information about ITCs and how they help to limit development and growth of these cancers. In fact, chapters three ("Super Foods for Super Immunity") and four ("Cold and Flu - What We Need to Know") present timely information, especially considering this recent pandemic, still circulating worldwide!

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.scientificamerican.com/arti ... fied-food/

"The Truth about Genetically Modified Food"

"a 1998 study by plant biochemist Árpád Pusztai, then at the Rowett Institute in Scotland, found that rats fed a GM potato suffered from stunted growth and immune system–related changes... But was not intended for human consumption - it was, in fact, designed to be toxic for research"

"Could eating plants with altered genes allow new DNA to work its way into our own? It is possible but hugely improbable.
Scientists have never found genetic material that could survive a trip through the human gut and make it into cells."

Informative discussion about GMO foods, but simply argues "Not so fast!" in condemning GMO foods
... and hints that pesticides on non-GMO crops can be equally problematic.

Best guess: Go for non-GMO foods when available but not to worry about GMO foods
... if a smaller portion of daily diet.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Who knew
Chocolate covered raisins and soaked almonds are super snack synergy

Melt 85% cacao (or more) dark chocolate and stir in dark raisins,
then spread on tray covered with plastic wrap, cover with more wrap
and refrigerate overnight. Break into pieces when chilled.

Soak whole almonds in water overnight, then drain well;
leave skins on for more fiber. Store both foods in refrigerator.
For balanced nutrition, don't cover almonds with chocolate.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.crowdyfan.com/worldwide/heart-attack-cancer

"These Superfoods Can Stop Cancer, Heart Disease, Obesity, And So Much More"

An unusual good foods list (70), but does not recommend what red wines for mackerel or sardines.


Re: https://tastycraze.com/recipes/r-16399-Mackerel_Soup

"All types of fish are suitable for making soups but with mackerel they become absolutely magical!"

"Clean the mackerel from their heads and entrails ..."

For more nutrition, substitute green lentils for the pasta ...
and canned mackerel is usually sans heads and entrails.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Interesting support of an infomercial, but also indicating that common foods provide the same amino acid:

Re: https://pro.inhresearch2.com/p/THCBF20201I/LTHCWA11/

An infomercial about NH3 (sales pitch for books)

Re: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5343079/

"Traditional Food Items in Ogimi, Okinawa: l-Serine Content and the Potential for Neuroprotection"

Re: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/ne ... nce/serine

"Serine is non-essential amino acid supplied from food or synthesized by the body from a number of metabolites, including glycine."

"Serine is non-essential amino acid supplied from food or synthesized by the body from a number of metabolites, including glycine. Serine is found in soybeans, nuts (especially peanuts, almonds, and walnuts), eggs, chickpeas, lentils, meat, and fish (especially shellfish). Serine is produced by the body when insufficient amounts are ingested."

Rod

[Amigoo]

EZ Blueberry Compote

No cooking! and sugar free! Super brain food! (they say)

In a 2-cup jar, shake 1 cup cool water with 1 1/2 tsp guar gum powder,
stir into medium bowl containing 12oz pkg thawed frozen blueberries,
then stir in 1 tsp inulin powder (tip: sprinkle on with tea strainer).
Mash with potato masher and refrigerate until used.

OMG Just before refrigeration ...
sprinkle 'n stir 1/2 tsp Vitamin C crystals for nutritional zip.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: EZ Blueberry Compote
No cooking! No added sugar! Super brain food! (they say)

OMG For the open road (mentally speaking), try with hempseed hearts.
Caution: Nerdville may be just around the corner! (they say)

Rod ... ...

[Amigoo]

Having read in "Super Immunity" by Joel Fuhrman, M.D., 2012, that cruciferous greens, mushrooms, and onions (frequently consumed), provide supper immunity, I upgraded my experimental Aioli Bean Dip. Surprisingly, this Spooner helps promote social distance!

Aioli Bean Spooner (brand mentioned for reference)

Combine 9oz jar Trader Joe's "Aioli Garlic Mustard Sauce"
with two 15oz cans great northern beans (drained 'n mashed),
2/3 cup minced sweet onions, 1/2 cup hempseed hearts,
1/2 tsp garlic granules, and 1/3 cup dried chives.

Thin with virgin olive oil and/or water as desired.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/22 ... iber-foods

"Chia seeds are ... highly nutritious, containing high amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium
... may also be the single best source of fiber on the planet."

Note-to-self: Rush to the store to get ingredients for:
https://minimalistbaker.com/overnight-c ... d-pudding/

Rod

[Amigoo]

A diabetes discovery journey ...

Re: https://www.yahoo.com/news/super-pea-co ... 24898.html

" 'Super pea' could reduce risk of Type 2 diabetes"

"The body breaks down starch to release sugar but resistant starch is broken down more slowly, meaning sugar is released more slowly into the bloodstream. This results in a more stable increase rather than a 'sugar spike' in which blood sugar levels rise sharply after a meal"

From a different perspective ... other foods (especially with significant fiber) can also help slow the release of sugar (glucose) from carbohydrates. Foods/quantities that minimize amount of sugar quickly released after a meal/snack are best to control diabetes.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Greek Pesto Fabuloso

In a food processor, combine
1 large bunch fresh cilantro,
1 large bunch Italian parsley,
15oz can cannellini beans, drained
3 tbsp hulled sesame seeds,
4 med. garlic cloves, sliced,
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice,
1/4 cup virgin olive oil

Serve with Nonfat Greek Yogurt.
Synergistic fingered crispies, optional.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Home chef's secret about Greek Pesto Fabuloso ...

This recipe was developed to test frozen pesto
(divide into smaller containers and thaw as desired,
but consume quickly once thawed).

Rod

[Amigoo]

Salsa Chili

Well ... it's more chili than salsa!

Simmer 1 cup rinsed red lentils in 2 cups water (about 15 min.),
then stir in 1 med. sweet onion (diced), 1 1/2 cups chunky salsa,
1 tsp garlic granules, 2 tsp paprika, 1 tbsp dried cilantro,
2 tbsp virgin olive oil, 2/3 cup diced jalapeño peppers.

Include 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (diced) to upgrade
(stir in after chili is cooled to preserve nutrients).

Tips: Onions and peppers can be briefly microwaved
before adding to reduce the bold veggie crunch.
For hop, add 1 cup diced shredded carrots.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https:\/abcnews.go.com/GMA/Food/made-pinterests-popular-pies-thanksgiving-favorite/story
(looks like same recipe: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/287526757440282407/ ) *

"I made 3 of Pinterest's most popular pies for Thanksgiving; this was the favorite!" (Pecan)

"To make the sauce I melted a tablespoon of salted butter over low heat in a small saucepan,
added roughly chopped GOOD dark chocolate (about 3/4 cup) and stirred until smooth,
added 3 tablespoons of heavy cream and stirred constantly until smooth,
finished with a splash of bourbon and reduced, then serve."

Interesting word contrast, this "reduce", since a serving of this pie 'n sauce is bit caloric and carb intense!
But an occasional "splash of bourbon" while reminiscing over a dessert photo is acceptable ("they say").

* first link disappeared faster than a popular pie!

Rod

[Amigoo]

Clover Valley Pumpkin Soofflé (like a "soufflé")

Similar to pumpkin pie filling, but ingredients adapted
for a protein-enriched, less sweetened dessert.

Ingredients:

2 15oz cans Clover Valley Pumpkin*
2 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp salt
3 xlg eggs
1/2 cup egg whites
1/2 cup half & half

* from a local Dollar General store
with good price, nutrition, and moisture
(other pumpkin puree may be substituted)

Directions:

Lightly oil a 2 quart baking dish;
preheat oven to 375F degrees.

In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, salt,
pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar.

In a small bowl, whisk eggs + egg whites, then
whisk in half & half. Pour into pumpkin mixture
and whisk carefully to combine.

Pour into baking dish, cover lightly with foil,
reduce oven to 350F and bake 1 hour. Then,
remove foil and continue baking 20 min.
(or until firm in the middle).

Serve with a dollop or three.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Msickquatash 'n Whites (for reheating later;
from Narragansett Indian word for "succotash",
a good source of veggie fiber)

Pour 16oz container of egg whites into heat-resistant bowl,
then place in double boiler and steam whites until cooked
(about 25 min.; egg yolk flavor is too strong).

In 1 1/2 cups water, simmer 16oz pkg frozen lima beans.
When almost cooked, layer on 1 med. sweet onion (diced),
then 15oz can non-GMO corn (drained); continue cooking.

Finally, drizzle on 2 tbsp virgin olive oil and sprinkle on
garlic granules plus salt & pepper as desired. Stir briefly,
then place servings of egg whites in individual bowls
and cover completely with Msickquatash.

Cover bowls and refrigerate until used.
Servings reheat in microwave about 2 min.
(egg whites burst if overheated)

Rod

[Amigoo]

Who knew

A medium oatmeal cookie, spread with a teaspoon of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), accompanied by 1/3 cup fresh walnuts, and a hot cuppa java is now this monkey's morning ritual for startin' the day (and takin' pills); a simple but nutritious brunch follows later ... if not pre-empted by another (rationalized) cookie for the day's required rock-bustin' energy.

The low carb/sugar content of cookie, fat-soluble vitamin synergy of VCO, minor caffeine kickstart, etc., is my preferred explanation for this Reasonably Rationalized Ritual (aka, "R,R & R", sometimes pronounced "Arf! Arf!").

Experientially (and confirmed by my pharmacist), glucose-sweeping diabetes medication
can be effectively complemented with a touch of sweetness.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Who knew

Canned salmon can be refrigerated longer by first chilling the can, then discarding unwanted salmon parts (skin, bones, fish hooks), then mixing in lotsa diced sweet onion, dried chives, garlic granules, and Lemon-Flavored Fish Oil (or maybe preferred mayo). Firmly pack the mixture into a bowl with cover and refrigerate immediately; keep refrigerated between servings.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articl ... h-benefits (re: lecithin)
First thought about the mother photo: Nature's Fountain of Youth for babies.

See also: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egg_lecithin

"Egg lecithin is not a concern for those on low-cholesterol diets, because the lecithin found in eggs
markedly inhibits the absorption of the cholesterol contained in eggs."

Subsequent insight: this lecithin info is advice to be less concerned about eggs
(if not cooked in or served with saturated fat) - not to take lecithin as a supplement.

Rod

[Amigoo]

A diabetes discovery journey ...

Assuming that daily diet is nutritious and not carb-intense ...
an EZ Rule of Thumb is to avoid provoking high blood sugar
with quantity of food - divide into smaller meals/snacks.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-life ... t-20111182

While a Paleo Diet is not so attractive to most people, occasional Paleo Parties
could share the concept, encouraging more of Group A, less of Group B,
and creating a personal Group C: (aka "The ABC Diet").

A: What to eat

Fruits
Vegetables
Nuts and seeds
Lean meats, especially grass-fed animals, wild game
Fish, especially those rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Oils from fruits and nuts, such as olive oil or walnut oil

B: What to avoid

Grains, such as wheat, oats and barley
Legumes (beans, lentils, peanuts, peas)
Dairy products
Refined sugar
Salt
Potatoes
Highly processed foods

C: A+B in balance and moderation

Rod

[Amigoo]

More Mayo for dieting ...

Re: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-con ... t-20342112

MIND Diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay)

- At least three servings of whole grains a day.
- Green leafy vegetables at least six times a week.
- Other vegetables at least once a day.
- Berries at least twice a week.
- Red meat less than four times a week.
- Fish at least once a week.
- Poultry at least twice a week.
- Beans more than three times a week.
- Nuts at least five times a week.
- Fried or fast food less than once a week.
- Mainly olive oil for cooking.
- Less than a tablespoon of butter or margarine a day.
- Less than a serving of cheese a week.
- Less than five pastries or sweets a week.
- One glass of wine or other alcoholic drink a day.

Note: The last suggestion does NOT say "less than" ...
and some experts recommend sex at least once a month,
but others suggest that it be paired with a good wine ...
thus inspiring the "I've Got a Good Mind To ..." Diet.

Rod

[Amigoo]

Dark Chocolate Applesauce

Combine 24oz jar natural applesauce
with 1/3 cup 100% cacao powder.
Refrigerate until served.

This simple combo seems to create a new food, since
chocolate is usually associated with sugar and saturated fat.
This applesauce well promotes the nutrition of cacao!

Re: https://foodfacts.mercola.com/cacao.html

"Today, in the dawn of superfoods, cacao has earned its title as a 'superfruit'
due to the surplus of flavonoids and polyphenols it contains."

Note: The more common serving size is one tablespoon
(as recommended by Hershey's 100% Cacao Powder).

Rod

[Amigoo]

More about cacao (who knew? and related to "once a month") ...

Re: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6950163/

"Chocolate exerts several effects on human sexuality, mainly acting as an aphrodisiac"

"serotonin has been found in several regions of the female genital tract in humans and other animals,
where it acts on vasoconstriction and vasodilatation. The principal component of sexual arousal
is peripheral vasocongestion of genital tissues; serotonin could be involved in sexual stimulation."

New pickup line: "Would you like to come in for a hot cuppa cocoa?"

Rod

[Amigoo]

Perky Paleo Sofrito

An easy no-cook paleo-refreshing sofrito,
mild enough to be served as a mini side dish.
(brand mentioned for ingredient reference)

Ingredients:

16oz jar Pace Chunky Mild Salsa, chilled
15oz can petite diced tomatoes, chilled
1 med. sweet onion, coarsely chopped
1 lg bunch Italian parsley, leaves only
1/2 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp garlic granules
2 tsp paprika

Directions:

Layer in food processor sweet onion,
then parsley, then diced tomatoes.
Process until diced (about 10 sec.).

In a large bowl, combine diced mixture
with remaining ingredients, then chill
in covered container until served.

Rod