KEEPING BLOOD SUGAR STABLE

You can learn a lot about how nutrition and lifestyle actually affects the way you feel.

Look for answers to the following questions;

• is there a significant amount of sugar and/or refined foods in your diet?


• do you drink fruit juices?


• do you skip meals or are there periods where you go without eating for longer than four hours?
  
• are you shaky, irritable or weak at certain times of the day?

If you answered 'yes' to any one of the above questions, follow these suggestions for better blood sugar balance;

• do not skip meals, especially breakfast


• eat something every 3 to 4 hours (not large amounts of food, just snacks)


• it is important to have some protein at every meal


• the mineral chromium is helpful in maintaining blood sugar levels - found in nuts and wholegrains


• limit fruits in your diet and avoid dried fruit, as these are concentrated in sugar - have no more than two pieces of fruit a day
  
• include healthy fats in your diet - try coconut oil


• exercise - toned muscle is more metabolically active and enhances blood-sugar maintenance

"Cauliflower is nothing but cabbage with a college education." -Mark Twain

Grated Cauliflower with Indian spices

You will need;

Frozen peas, grated ginger 'n garlic, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, cardamom powder, salt, garam masala, coconut oil

What to do;

Grate the cauliflower. Heat the coconut oil and add the cumin seeds. When they pop add the ginger, garlic, cauliflower, peas, turmeric, salt and garam masala. Mix well, cover and cook for around 7 minutes. Mix in the cardamom powder and serve.

Remember, spices such as turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and are also said to benefit your skin - who doesn't want to remain youthful?

Get Potting

Do you know that certain plants are helpful in removing formaldehyde, benzine and carbon monoxide from the air? SO, add some of the following plants to your home;

Peace Lilly, Boston Fern, Dwarf Date Palm, Ficus Alii, Rubber Plant, Bamboo Palm, Lady Palm and Areca Palm

Today I am grateful for;

Clicks cash back vouchers, the rain in the Plett area - Yay!!!! for my friends, our own raindrops last night

Today, call your best friend and gab ....life hands us many things both good and bad. One of the greatest gifts we receive is the love of a good friend......

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

CHOOSING HEALTHY CARBOHYDRATES

There are loads of veggies which are good sources of carbohydrates. The most important thing is that for good health you should get your carbs from wholefoods. Refined carbs are those plant foods that have had a major part of their nutrition stripped through processing. So, remember the definition of WHOLEFOODS - even if something is wholegrain it does not necessarily mean that it is a wholefood eg boxed cereals, quick oats, etc have all been stripped of valuable nutrients through being heated and cooked under pressure. It is better to eat a bowl of brown rice or non-instant oatmeal. As far as veggies go, a general rule is that root veggies are higher in carbs.

High carb veggies

• squash, sweet potatoes, potatoes, parsnips, pumpkins, turnips, beets, corn, peas, carrots, swedes

Low carb veggies

• bean sprouts, cucumbers, asparagus, leafy greens, cabbages, cauliflowers, broccoli, tomatoes, peppers, chillies, mushrooms, aubergines, radishes, celery, onions, leeks, brussels sprouts, herbs

Include these healthy carbs in your diet

• beans, legumes, leafy greens - raw and cooked, veggies of different colours every day, whole fruits instead of fruit juice, sea veggies such as wakame and kombu and naturally cultured veggies such as sauerkraut

Remember, carbs are your body's preferred source of energy so it is important to include in your daily meals.

Garden Green Soup

You will need;

• spring onions, cucumber, potato, salt, veggie broth (homemade), spinach leaves, lemon juice, maple syrup, rice milk (or cream if you eat dairy)

What to do;

• heat oil add spring onions and cook till wilted, add chopped cuke, potato and salt -cook for 5 minutes, add veggie broth and simmer until veggies are soft, add spinach, lemon juice and maple syrup.


• blend until the soup is smooth - pour the blended soup back into a pot and add rice milk (or cream), season with more salt and pepper if required.

This soup is also good served cold

Today I am grateful for;

• The Ayurvedic Cooking for Self-Healing Book


• KFM radio playing in the background


• walking barefoot


• reading while lying on my couch


• strawberry and mango tea


• filtered water

Todays Wisdom Card reading

I have unlimited potential. Loving myself and thinking joyful, happy thoughts is the quickest way to create a wonderful life.

Remember, as per Mahatma Gandhi

"Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's need, but not every man's greed."

Today, brew some of your fave healthy tea, take off your shoes, wear a huge floppy hat with flowers on it, find a shady spot and get grounded ......................

Have a lovely day - it's purrrrfect today.

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

SATURDAY 13 FEBRUARY IS 'MADLY IN LOVE WITH ME DAY'

Yes, a day just for YOU and it falls on a Saturday - so no excuses. YOU the awesome person, the gorgeous, clever, witty, needed, successful, loved, crazy person....the list goes on and on. I dare you to fall madly in love with YOURSELF - make a collage of words that describe the wonderful YOU and keep it on your desk to remind you of your wonderfulness.

Remember;

• take care of YOURSELF not just everyone else
• create relationships full of unconditional love
• de-friend people who stress you
• design a life that supports you, not depletes you
• focus on all the magic things YOU have done and not those you haven't
• express instead of repress - YOUR temple(body), mind and spirit

On this fabulous 'madly in love with ME' day experience life and remember the best things in life are free;

• look at the clouds and find shapes
• collect sea shells and stones
• teach your children how to cook
• visit your botanical gardens and smell the flowers
• explore rock pools
• watch the sun rise
• swim
• sit at the ocean and marvel at nature's beauty
• watch the sun set
• walk in the mountains
• take your children to the local playground and SWING
• visit the library
• go bird watching
• take photographs of magical moments
• play bat and ball on the beach
• watch the stars
• walk in the rain
• go into the country and photograph the wild flowers
• sit in your garden and read
• swing in a hammock
• play with your pups ..............

Some interesting fruit 'n veggie facts;

apples - protect your heart, prevent constipation, improves lung capacity and cushions joints

broccoli - strengthens bones, saves eyesight, combats cancer, protects your heart and controls blood pressure

avos - battles diabetes, lowers cholesterol, helps stop strokes, controls blood pressure and smooths skin

chilli peppers - aids digestion, soothes sore throat, clears sinuses, combats cancer and boosts the immune system

onions - reduce risk of heart attack, combats cancer, kills bacteria, lowers cholesterol and fights fungus

sweet potatoes - saves your eyesight, lifts mood, combats cancer and strengthens bones

cauliflower - protects against prostrate cancer, combats breast cancer, strengthens bones, banishes bruises and guards against heart disease

Tostadas - you will need;

• corn tortillas, beans eg pinto, black eyed, etc, hing, chilli powder, cumin powder, shredded lettuce, tomato, black olives, grated cheese (also very good sans cheese), olive oil

what to do;

• add hing and chilli powder to heated olive oil then stir in beans and cumin powder, and mash to a thick paste (add a bit of water if too thick)
• Spread the refried beans onto the tortilla and tomp with lettuce, tomato, olives and grated cheese

A fab meal for a lazy Sunday evening.

Magical mermaid and dolphin oracle card reading

Worthiness - know that you deserve to receive good in all ways.

Today I am grateful for;

• the wonderful fresh veggies I bought today
• Friday
• my fabulous bedroom
• yoga
• my peaceful life
• ocean breeze fragrance oil
• earl grey tea
• slip slops - the le cheap rubber ones
• The Lighthouse Family Greatest Hits CD
• my papsti
• my giant green 'n blue paper clip

Today, celebrate who you are now not who you may be later............ and ENJOY 'madly in love with me' day on Saturday.............

Have a cha-cha-cha weekend

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

TOMORROW IS INTERNATIONAL 'THANK YOU' DAY

Go on - pick someone special who has made a difference in your life during the last year. This should be a person who simply made a comment and shifted your viewpoint or direction. It could even be someone who did not even know they helped you - Wham!!! it just happened.
Share this with your friends and tell people that they have made a difference, however big or small.
Write a thank you note in your journal or paste a thank you note on your vision board.
Make February the 9th a GREAT thank you day.

Quote

'How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world' - William Shakespeare.

Cauliflower and spinach stir fry

Here's what to do ........

Today's wisdom card reading

Whenever I encounter a challenge in my life, I use the experience to learn and grow.

Today I am grateful for;

• the Obs holistic lifestyle fair (first Sunday of every month)
• Sunday lunch and giggles with friends
• Monday - this week will ROCK!

Today, remember to celebrate International Give Thanks Day tomorrow, wear your designer jeans and let your mystical wisdom inspire you ........

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

TIBETAN PRAYER FLAGS

I just love the sight of colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind - sometimes they just wave gently and other times they flap and dance crazily.

They seem to speak blessings to nature, which dissolve in the wind and bless all sentient beings.

Prayer flags have a long history and date back to ancient Tibet, China, Persia and India. The meanings of the symbols and texts are based on the concepts of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.

The Tibetan word for prayer flag is Dar Cho. "Dar" means to increase life, fortune, health and wealth, "Cho" means all sentient beings.

Such simple bits of colourful cloth, together with the natural energy of the wind, quietly harmonize the environment - increasing happiness and all things good.

And now for a yummy pumpkin recipe - I bought this HUGE white pumpkin, so need to get creative with recipes. Here goes ............

You will need;

onion, garlic, chilli (of course), salt, pepper tin of tomatoes, olive oil, pumpkin - diced and beans (I used the big white ones - forget what they are called)

what to do;

• saute onion, chilli and garlic till softened


• add pumpkin and tin of tomato - cook until almost done


• add beans


• salt and pepper
  

Serve together with basmati rice and a crunchy green salad.

Here's the finished product waiting to be chowed.

Today I am grateful for;

• Tibetan prayer flags
• hats
• water-lilies
• Johnny Cash Personal File CD
• My 1960's jeans

Wisdom Card Reading

I rise above all limitations. Whenever I encounter a challenge in my life, I use the experience to learn and grow.

Some 'Aristotle' wisdom to chow on

"We live in deeds, not years, in thoughts not breaths, in feelings not figures or dials. We should count time by hearth throbs. He most lives who thinks most, feels the noblest and acts the best."

Today, put all your energy into the present and enjoy the ebb and flow of your life ......

Have a 'wild banshee' weekend.

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

HAVE A CHA-CHA-CHA WEEKEND

Quote

"If one offers me with love and devotion a leaf, a flower, fruit, or water, I will accept it. - Bhagavad-gita (9.26)

Artichoke Salad


You will need;

black olives, can of artichoke hearts (drained) tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh basil leaves, salt, pepper and a pinch of hing.

What to do;

Sooooo simple - just combine all the above ingredients in a sexy bowl and refrigerate for an hour before serving. If you eat cheese, Parmesan shavings would do the trick. This makes a good meal with garlic bread.

Cholesterol kicking artichokes - are an excellent source of magnesium, dietary fibre, trace minerals, vitamin C, folic acid and vitamin A. Artichokes help to increase the excretion of cholesterol and decrease the manufacture of cholesterol in the liver.

Today I am grateful for;

• my 50th birthday on Sunday - Yahooooo! I made it.



• the celebrations that start late this pm


• today's veggie shopping - huge white pumpkin, spinach, broccoli, salad greens, 'shrooms, tomatoes, cukes, 'nanas, pears, colourful peppers, chillies, red onions - need to get creative with recipes for next week :)


• being healthy and filled with 'superpower' energy.
  
• my 2010 vision board - a work in progress.
  

Today - remember it's not what you do, it's who you are AND whoohoooo, you're alive ..........................

AND

have some bubbly champagne for me this weekend, be merry and dance life's dance.....

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

THE GOODS ON WATERMELON

Did you know that watermelon belongs to the same family as pumpkin and squash.

Watermelons are native to the Kalahari Desert. The earliest recorded watermelon crop was recorded in hieroglyphics in Egypt, about 5000 years ago. The Egyptians revered the watermelon and left it in the graves of their dead so it could be eaten in the afterlife.

This crunchy, pinkish delight is made up of over 90% water. It is truly a great food for people wanting to loose weight, as the body actually uses more calories to digest the watermelon than it provides.

As a result of its high water content the watermelon offers more nutrients per calorie than many other fruits. It is a very good source of vitamin C, beta carotene, several B vitamins including B3, B5 and B6 as well as the minerals biotin, potassium and magnesium. In addition to this it provides a good amount of dietary fibre.

Great for summer - it keeps the body well hydrated, is an excellent diuretic and helps to prevent fluid build up. Watermelon also contains lycopene, which is an antioxidant and the plant pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelon and grapefruit their red colour. Lycopene provides many health benefits and can aid in heart disease prevention and reduce the risk of certain cancers such as hormone related cancers and digestive tract cancers.

What to do with watermelon;

• good in smoothies (include pips) or juice
• yummy as a salad with feta
• eat as is - wearing a bib
• add to fruit salad

Reflections

Peace in the Wilderness - Aranna Sutta

Standing to one side of him, a deva said to the Buddha:

These people who dwell in wild places,

living a life so peaceful and simple,

eating just one meal a day,

how is it that they look so serene?

The Buddha said:

They are not sorrowing about the past,

or longing for the future.

They are living in the present.

That's why they look so serene.

It is by sorrowing about the past

and longing for the future

that foolish people wither away,

like green reeds drying in the sun.

Scrumptious Recipe

Double Broccoli Quinoa

You will need;

3 cups cooked quinoa, 5 cups raw broccoli, cut into small florets and stems, 3 garlic cloves, slivered almonds - toasted, grated parmesan, salt, lemon juice, olive oil

What to do;

Cook broccoli just long enough to take the edge off - set aside

To make the broccoli pesto puree two cups of the cooked broccoli, garlic, almonds, Parmesan, salt and lemon juice. Drizzle in the olive oil.

Just before serving, toss the quinoa and remaining broccoli florets with the pesto. Drizzle with chilli oil top with sliced avocado and some slivered almonds.

Today I am grateful for the wonderful weekend I had;

• long, lazy vegetarian breakfast @ Arnolds on Sunday
• sunshine, pizza and spritzers on Saturday afternoon lingering into the early evening hours - bliss!
• my garden mole - he just won't move on

Spiritual Activism

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead

Today, trust in our Universe -however or whomever you believe created you. Trust that you are on the right path, that things will work out for you. You deserve to enjoy your awesome life. Most importantly trust yourself, your family and your friends and your anxiety levels will drop ........................

AVOCADO OIL

The benefits of avo oil far outweigh those of extra virgin olive oil, but the use of the oil is more limited. It is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and Vitamin E.

Monounsaturated fatty acids are usually found in plant products such as avocados and olives in their oils. These fatty acids lower the bad cholesterol and increase the good cholesterol. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and protects cells in the body and is a defence against life-threatening diseases.

Don't think of avo oil as a replacement for extra virgin olive oil, but rather as a new oil, a new exciting flavour to introduce to food. Use it in place of other oils, or as a blend with olive oil. To most appreciate this wonderful flavour I find it is best used on its own, and not together with vinegar.

Some easy uses for avocado oil;

• Stir it into avo dips, guacamole and any dish that features avo's - it heightens the flavour
• drizzle over a salad of lettuce, goats cheese, chives and serve with crispy chunky garlic bread
• make a tapas of fat green Spanish olives with a few cloves of smashed garlic, a sprig of oregano or marjoram and freshly ground black pepper and drizzle with avo oil
• lovely over steamed artichokes together with lemon juice, salt, pepper, crushed garlic and crushed mint leaves

Quote

SMILE. Have you ever noticed how easily puppies make human friends? Yet all they do is wag their tails and fall over. - The Confidence Course, 1997

Today, I am luving the fluffy clouds highlighted by juicy rays of sunshine, the slight breeze and the thought of an evening swim.

It' s easier to be happy than you think.... like anything in life it needs a little work. What you put in you shall reap. Find a quiet space and be really honest with yourself, write down all the things that make your heart soar and then see how much time you are dedicating to those things in your life.

Today, treat your life experiences as 'happiness food' and you will automatically make others around you happy. BONUS, by doing this you will be releasing unwanted stress......

Enjoy this special day

peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

BACK IN THE LAND OF RESPONSIBILITIES

2010 is here and begging for us all to kick unhealthy and bad habits right off this rockin' planet.

My motto for 2010 is;

• start the year the way I intend to finish it - on a high
• work really hard - achieve and be successful
• make time for short holidays
• more time away from TV and the internet
• capture moments with my camera on a daily basis
• make a 2010 vision board
• be grateful, on a daily basis, for this wonderful world we live in
• remind myself continuously how much I have and how lucky I am
• never be judgemental
• laugh often
• hug the peeps I love
• develop more patience
• ensure my 'to do' list is tackled weekly
• read lots of interesting books
• long walks and time at the ocean
• continue with my quest of ' it's sexy to be healthy'
• spend more quality time with my Papsti
• stress less

If I can achieve all of the above I will be very proud of mwah!

Today I am grateful for my holiday memories;

giant proteas, Buffels Baai, Jubilee Creek, historic buildings in Rheenendal, eagle encounters, no tv or internet, new years eve with Lyndle, Tom 'n friends at their wonderful home in the 'woods', central beach, smiley sunlight, sundowners at viewpoint, the moon peeking through the trees, stars, G+T's @ Cool Bananas, the pub, organic veggies @ The Heath, Kurland Organic Market, Kurland goats 'n baby goats, new years day @ Asti, long scenic forest and beach walks, The Market on Main, stalls @ central beach, Robberg, braai's, Timberland Organic Village, The Fairy Garden, Sunset cheese'nwine overlooking the ocean, frogs, raindrops, champagne, Brenton on Sea, whale tail lights, organic olives 'n feta, carved trees, Dalene Matthee memorial tree, old buildings in George, Village Bookshop, second hand book shop, fun games on new year's eve, long lazy brunches, coffee @ Europa and SO MUCH more ......................

Quote

"He is a wise man who does not grieve for things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has." - Unknown

Remember, 2010 can be all you wish for. Make a list of all you would like to achieve, attend to it systematically and it WILL happen. Be proud of your 'sparkly' achievements - if you put your mind to it ANYTHING is possible ......

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

HAPPY FRIDAY

The High Heeled Guide to Enlightenment by Alice Grist a fabulous read. This book brings an understanding of alternative spirituality to a new audience. It is spirituality for the sexy socialite, enlightenment for the lip gloss dependent and a crash course in serenity for the yummy mummy! Veering between the wildly faddish and fashionable to the freakier and less familiar. The High Heeled Guide sheds a pink and intelligent spotlight upon a diverse collection of spiritual options that well suit the modern woman. An intriguing, informative and hilarious read for any woman who knows deep in her worn down sole that there is more to life than cars, career, kids and cocktails.

Rose Quartz - this stone is linked to the hart chakra and as such works with all matters relating to love and healing of the heart. Rose Quartz replaces negative energies with love and releases emotions and pain. It will enhance unconditional love and harmony in relationships while working to heal past wounds.

It is said to strengthen the heart, chest and lungs by working with the heart and thymus gland. Rose Quartz strengthens the immune system and releases impurities from the body. It works with strengthening the kidneys and adrenals, enhances fertility and is helpful for disease of the mind. It is also good for burns and the complexion.
Colour : Pink Appearance : Generally a pink cloudy colour, all sizes

Juicing and why?

• cleansing and alkalising
• provides the best source of enzymes
• high amounts of nutrients, vitamins and minerals
• easier to digest and absorb
• true hydration
• huge amounts of antioxidants
• delivers oxygen to the cells
• disease prevention
• calms the nervous system

Using a Vitamix or other blender try the following;

Carrot Juice

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup carrot and apple
• ice

Breakfast Punch

• orange
• apple
• banana
• pineapple
• ice

Green Juice

• 2 apples
• 1/2 cuke
• 2 celery stalks
• 1/2 lemon
• 250ml water

Today I am grateful for;

• this mornings raindrops
• jojoba oil
• again, the weekend
• incense

Quote;

If you create an act, you create a habit. If you create a habit, you create character. If you create character, you create a destiny. - Andre maurois

Today, if you have a question churning in your mind and can't quite decide what to do, ask the Universe for some guidance and simply take a walk. Pay attention and be open to receiving signs. You will be surprised how quickly you will be provided with answers .........

peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

TOFU THURSDAY

Tofu history in China - Tofu is very popular in the Orient today. Tofu was first used in China over 2000 years ago. The oldest evidence of tofu production is a Chinese mural incised on stone slab. It shows a kitchen scene that proves that soy milk and tofu were being made in China during the period A.D. 25 - 220. The oldest written reference to tofu appeared also in China at about A.D. 1500, in a poem "Ode to Tofu" by Su Ping.
Tofu history in Japan - Kento priests, who went to China to study Buddhism,brought tofu back to Japan during the Nara era (710-794). Tofu was eaten as part of a vegetarian diet for priests for its protein content. The word "tofu" is first mentioned in Japan in the diary of the Shinto priest Nakaomi. Tofu was used as an offering at an altar. In 1489 the word "tofu" was first written in actual Japanese characters. Tofu gradually became popular amongst the nobility and the samurai class. During the Edo era (1603-1867), tofu became popular among ordinary people. The recipe book "Tofu Hyakuchin" was published in 1782 and sold very well.
Tofu history in the Western World - In 1603 the Spanish dictionary was the first European document with reference to the word "tofu". Dominog Fernandez de Navarrete described in his book, "A collection of voyages and travels", how tofu was made. The first English reference to tofu was in 1704, when Navarrete's book was published in English.

Tofu was first produced in France in Paillieux in 1880. Hirata and Co started to make tofu in San Francisco in 1895. The first Westerner who produced tofu on a commercial scale was T.A. Van Gundy in 1929 when he started the company La Sierra Industries in California.

Mexican Tofu Scramble

• tofu, drained and crumbled
• 1 tomato chopped
• spring onions, chopped
• cilantro, chopped
• green chillies
• chilli powder
• cumin
• paprika
• tumeric powder
• olive oil
• salt

what to do;

• cook veggies in olive oil for around 5 minutes
• add crumbled tofu and seasonings, stir gently and cook for 15 minutes

Serve on rye or in a wrap together with homemade salsa. Also good sprinkled with some grated vegan cheese.

This yummy dish is very similar to scrambled eggs but much healthier.

Chinese Proverb

When sleeping woman wake, mountains move.

Today I am grateful for;

• the chic-talk session I just had with my BFF
• my peaceful home
• the excitement to the build up for my road trip/holiday
• the kitties frolicking in my garden

When people here that I am a veggie they always ask me where I get my protein from. Here are some examples;

• broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, beets, green pepper, lettuce, kale, 'shrooms, potatoes, spinach, zucchini, tomatoes, banana's, apples, strawberries, grapes, pumpkin/hemp/sesame/sunflower seeds, lentils, kidney beans, split peas, barley, millet, rice, oatmeal, rye, quinoa - the list is endless.

Magical Mermaid and Dolphin Oracle Card Reading

Tranquility : "Make time to relax, be still, and enjoy your solitude, indulging in much-needed self-care".

Do you ever get a funny feeling, slightly surreal - that perhaps life is more purposeful and magical than you give it credit for? This is probably just the Universe giving you a wake up call. Do something about it TODAY - ignite your Va Va Voom .........

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

CANCER'S PREFERRED FUEL

Many cancer patients would have a major improvement in their conditions if they controlled the supply o f cancer's preferred fuel : Glucose. By slowing the cancer's growth, patients make it possible for their immune systems to catch up to the disease. Controlling blood-glucose levels through diet, exercise, supplements and meditation can be one of the most crucial components to a cancer treatment programme/lifestyle.

German Otto Warburg, Ph.D., the 1931 Nobel Laureate in medicine, first discovered that cancer cells have fundamentally different energy metabolism compared to healthy cells. The gist of his Nobel thesis was this : malignant tumours frequently exhibit an increase in "anaerobic glycolysis" - a process whereby glucose is used by cancer cells as a fuel with lactic acid as an anaerobic by-product. The large amount of lactic acid produced by this fermentation of glucose from the cancer cells is then transported to the liver. This conversion of glucose to lactate creates a lower, more acidic PH in cancerous tissues as well as overall physical fatigue from lactic acid build-up. Therefore, larger tumours tend to exhibit a more acidic PH.

Hence, it is important to attempt to regulate blood-glucose levels through diet, weight control and stress reduction. Since cancer cells derive most of their energy from anaerobic glycolysis, the goal is not to eliminate sugars or carbohydrates entirely but rather to control blood-glucose to help starve the cancer cells and boost the immune system.

Braised Cabbage and Basmati

• chop cabbage and braise together with onion, garlic and chilli in olive oil, add a little water if necessary, (I added some white wine)
• cook covered for 10 minutes, add salt and pepper and cook uncovered for 20 minutes stirring every 5 minutes,
• boil rice in veggie stock,
• add cabbage to cooked rice and mix thoroughly.

This was delicious with a tomato and cuke salad and steamed carrots and squash.

Remember, "when hungry eat your rice. When tired close your eyes. Fools may laugh at me; wise men will know what I mean". - Lin-Chi

Today I am grateful for;

• all my books on nutrition
• my "holiday-exploring" list - it's getting longer by the day!
• Papsti's decision to go for acupuncture

Quote

"While we ourselves are living graves of murdered beasts, how can we ever expect ideal conditions on this earth". George Bernard Shaw

Today, remember to never postpone saying "I love you", hug the people in your life. Life is short, seize every moment and leave nothing undone. Be open to miracles, dance every dance and let nothing ruin your day ......

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

A SUPER-POWERED ANCIENT FOOD ENERGY BOOSTER

Hemp Seed Protein Powder
This ancient food can be traced back thousands of years to Chinese, Egyptian, Persian and other cultures, where it was a highly revered food source. Hemp seeds contain all the essential amino acids and fatty acids, and is considered a complete food.

Hemp seed powder contains 30% protein and is therefore a super-charged energy booster. It is also essential for overall health maintenance as it contains a wide variety of nutrients, antioxidants and fibre.

Hemp as long been overlooked as a superfood for its misunderstood association with marijuana. Hemp seeds will NOT get you high as they do not contain THC.

Hemp seed contains all 10 essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein which contribute to building and repairing tissue. It is comprised of 65% edestin protein, the most potent protein of any plant source and 35% albumin protein and glutamic acid. The globulin edestin in hemp seed closely resembles the globulin in blood plasma, and is therefore compatible with the human digestive system. Albumin is a protein manufactured by the liver that is supportive of liver and kidney health. The fibre in hemp seed is excellent for maintaining digestive and colon health.

How to use the protein powder;

• mix into your fave smoothie, sprinkle into soups, over salads or fresh fruit to add a healthy and nutty flavoured kick.

A bonus;

• hemp protein powder is gluten-free, dairy-free, lactose-free and contains no preservatives, thinners or other additives.

Today I am grateful for;

• a short work week - YAY! for public hol's
• the fab peeps I met @ Saturday's concert
• sunshine, sunshine, sunshine ...........

Bestest and Quickest Ever Spaghetti Recipe (a Jamie Oliver 'amended' recipe)

• spaghetti
• onion, garlic, chilli, olives, tomatoes, fresh basil
• balsamic vinegar
• olive oil
• salt and pepper

what to do;

• finely chop onion, garlic, chilli and de-pip olives
• add squashed baby tomatoes and torn basil leaves
• salt and black pepper
• mix all the above ingredients in a huge bowl
• once cooked add the hot spaghetti, olive oil and balsamic vinegar and mix thoroughly

add a crunchy green salad and ENJOY!!!

I think this is such a delicious dish because the ingredients are not cooked, just slightly wilted by the hot pasta - it is fresh and yummy. Also good cold as a salad.

Quote

"A vegetarian is a person who won't eat anything that can have children". - David Brenner

Today, make a list of all the wonderful things you want to experience in the holidays and start planning and dreaming - magical, fun times are around the corner ..............

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

THE LATEST FROM THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

One third of the more than 500 000 cancer deaths in the US ear year are attributable to diet and physical activity habits, such as being overweight or obese. That's about the same number of cancer deaths caused by tobacco.

Researchers are now saying that the latest/new cancer prevention guidelines emphasize maintaining a healthy weight throughout life as the best thing you can do to reduce your risk of cancer.

• Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity on 5 or more days per week.
• Follow a healthy diet, with an emphasis on plant-based foods.
• Eat five or more servings of a variety of vegetables and fruits each day.
• Choose whole grains over processed or refined grains.
• Limit consumption of processed and red meats.
• Limit alcohol intake.

In addition, the new guidelines call on communities to take a more active role in encouraging healthy behaviours, by increasing access to healthful foods in schools and workplaces as well as providing safe and enjoyable sidewalks and recreational facilities.

Kitchen Gems;

• if you don't put the lid on when steaming green veggies they stay greener
• when cooking cabbage add a bay leaf, this will reduce the smell during cooking and also give a subtle flavour
• if you need to keep peeled potatoes, put them in water and then place a slice of bread over the top - this stops them from going brown
• add Worcester Sauce to baked beans for extra zing

Today I am grateful for;

• feeling energetic and healthy
• happiness
• another glorious day in our beautiful city
• my weekend plans
• yoga followed by early morning swim
• being truly blessed

Quote

I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learnt that most people died of natural causes. - author unknown

Fun link

www.mamataxi.blogspot.com

Yummy Breakfast - Oats with a difference

• 1 cup oats
• 2 cups water
• salt

what to do;

• simmer slowly for 15 minutes (do not use quick-cook oats)
• top with goji berries, raisins and cinnamon
• if you like it sweet drizzle with honey
• I also sprinkle organic Hemp Protein Protein Powder over my oats, gives it a yummy nutty flavour

why are oats healthy;

• the complex carbs in oats allow for a slower release of blood sugars and oats are safe for those who are gluten intolerant

Today, 'plunge' into the weekend as if it were your last - eat, play, laugh, spend times with loved ones and explore .......

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

FOOD ADDITIVES

Nutrition experts claim that the more natural foods you eat the healthier you will be. What does this mean? Well, you need to cut out foods that are processed, don't contain chemicals, preservatives, fillers, artificial flavors or artificial colours.

Foods to avoid;

• diet foods - reduced sugar foods and beverages are loaded with highly processed/chemical substitutes,
• reduced fat foods have a lot of added sugars,
• fast foods - loaded with additives and unhealthy fats,
• any food that is tinned or packaged contain fillers and preservatives,
• refined sugar and sweetened food - candy, soda, cakes, anything baked, the list is endless,
• fried foods contain saturated and trans fats.

Why are additives bad?

• they are linked to allergic reactions, fatigue, skin rashes, hyperactivity, headaches, thyroid problems, asthma, cancer, hallucinations, bad cholesterol, increased risk for type-2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, kidney problems and the list goes on and on ............

Toasted Pearl Barley Risotto

• 250ml pearl barley, washed and well drained
• onion, chopped
• olive oil
• 1L vegetable stock
• finely chopped parsley

What to do;

• fry barley over medium heat until the grains become fairly dark (be brave!)
• in another pan saute onion until soft
• add the barley and stock and simmer until the grains are tender but firm, around 40 mins
• add parsley

A delish alternative;

• add chopped tomatoes at the beginning of cooking, stir in chopped basil at the end of cooking together with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving,
• also, good served with a dollop of your fave Pesto,
• or add slivered olives and fresh oregano.

Good as a main meal or as a side dish.

Today I am grateful for;

• fairy lights
• Cape Town's festive December atmosphere
• Toffee 'n Shinga
• the bumble bee in my garden
• almost Friday

Quote

If the only prayer you said in your life was, "thank you" that would suffice. - Meister Eckhart.

Today, eat watermelon, run through a sprinkler - I dare you! Find your flow, seek out that which absorbs your attention completely and take your mind off your struggles.

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

HAPPY BODHI DAY

Bodhi Day, traditionally the 8th day of the 12th lunar month, has been observed on December 8 in Japan since the Meiji Restoration (1862-1869). It is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni or Siddhartha Gautauma, experienced enlightenment, also known as Bodhi in Sanskrit. According to tradition, Siddhartha had recently forsaken years of extreme ascetic practices and resolved to sit under a Pupul tree and simply meditate until he found the root of suffering, and how to liberate oneself from it.

All traditions agree that as the Morning Star rose in the sky in the early morning, the third watch of the night, Siddhartha finally found the answers he sought and became Enlightened, and experienced Nirvana. Having done so, Siddhartha now became a Buddha or ' Awakened One'.

The Buddha describes his enlightenment in three stages;

• During the first watch of the night, the Buddha discovered all of his past lives in the cycle of rebirth, realizing that he had been born and reborn countless times before.
• During the second watch, the Buddha discovered the Law of Karma, and the importance of living by the Eightfold Path.
• During the third watch, the Buddha discovered the Four Noble Truths, finally reaching Nirvana. In his words : "My heart, thus knowing, thus seeing, was released from the fermentation of sensuality, released from the fermentation of becoming, released from the fermentation of ignorance. With release, there was the knowledge, ' released'. I discerned that birth is ended, the holy life fulfilled, the task done. There is nothing further for this world."

Quote

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. - Martin Luther King Jnr

Dream Chef (Dorian Haarhoff)

he travels by sea,by land

with the taste of Asia,

this night conjurer

who comes to cook for me.

loose tops, loose shoes.

recipes in cursive

scribble his pants.

skillet in hand,

wok on the flame

he fills the kitchen

with seeds, greens, bulbs

roots and oils.

he serves a dish

so rich in East

my mouth's an aroma cave.

i lick my fingers

and hug his giant

who feeds me such cuisine.

i rest my cheek

against his ribs, his heart.

my arms embrace

this dream god's roundedness.

i hear food music from within.

Butternut and Potato Roast

• sliced butternut (unpeeled)
• potatoes, cut into quarters
• olive oil
• chopped thyme
• garlic, crushed
• garam masala
• salt
• cinnamon, ground
• soft brown sugar or honey

what to do;

• combine into a marinade the olive oil, thyme, garlic, garam masala and salt
• add butternut and potatoes and toss.
• place into greased ovenproof dish and pour any remaining marinade over.
• sprinkle the cinnamon over the butternut slices and then drizzle the honey or brown sugar over these.
• bake until golden and crisp

also delish if you add;

• halved onions, cloves of garlic in their 'pyjamas', cherry tomatoes.

Today I am grateful for;

• another purrrfect day
• by new burglar bars - cheerio Burglars
• the swim I shall have after work
• refreshing green iced tea (home-made)
• the gorgeous spanish lace skirt I am eyeing ..........(I think it's meant for me)
• thanks for the special pic's Manf
• the gorgeous butterfly in my garden

This year use the holidays to create a Vision Board or a Vision Book - what you document will become reality. Also, take time out to lie on the grass and photograph the clouds, make a wish and take a moment to just be .............

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

NON-LASAGNE LASAGNE

Most pasta is made with wheat flour, but you can make a healthy gluten-free lasagne by substituting veggies for the pasta. Also a good thing for the waistline if you want to look cute during the' hellidays'.

What to do;

• slice some aubergines, courgettes and Portobello mushrooms lengthwise to make long strips.
• lay the strips on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil
• sprinkle salt over the veggies
• bake until slightly brown
• now layer the veggies with the lasagne sauce where you would normally layer the pasta sheets
• Yum with loads of salads.

A gluten experiment

Gluten is extremely difficult to digest and is a common food allergy that many people don't even know they have.

Take some bread flour and add enough water to be able to knead it into a ball of dough. Now take this dough and hold it under running tap water while you work with it in your hands. Milky water will flow out of it. This is the carbohydrate starch leaving the dough. After a few minutes, you will be left with an extremely sticky gluey mass. This is the gluten that is in the wheat. Now ...... imagine your digestive enzymes trying to break this down.

Physiological Comparisons between meat-eater/herbivore and man

Meat eater - has claws, no skin pores and perspires through the tongue, sharp front teeth for tearing, no flat molar teeth for grinding, intestinal tract 3 times body length so rapidly decaying meat can pass out quickly, strong hydrochloric acid in stomach to digest the meat.

Herbivore - no claws, perspires through skin pores, no sharp front teeth has flat rear molars, intestinal tract 10-12 times body length, stomach acid 20 times less strong than meat-eaters.

Man - no claws, perspires through skin pores, no sharp front teeth has flat rear molars, intestinal tract 12 times body length, stomach acid 20 times less strong than meat-eaters.

It's obvious which category we fall into.

Today I am grateful for;

• choosing healthy eating options to build my immune system
• another day closer to holidays
• the cute pic of Morgan sleeping like a princess
• the fabulishiously relaxing Sunday I had yesterday - bliss

Quote

As Henry Ford said "Obstacles are just those frightful things you see when you take your eye off your goal."

Today, think questions that bounce you upwards for 2010;

• What can I do to move forward?
• How can I grow from challenges and life-lemons chucked my way?
• What's within my control to change?

Remember, if you ask depressing questions you WILL get depressing answers.

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx