Search Results

Food and Longevity As we climb further and further along the path of adulthood, our health becomes more of a worry. Classic conversations with doctors, at the annual check-ups, talk about lowering your blood pressure and your cholesterol; they talk about how you need more sleep and could probably do with exercising more. As we are getting older, the more realistic and rational our perspective becomes. We realise that we are not these immortal beings we thought we were, and suddenly the decisions we make effect our current lives and our future lives. With this being said, making new habits and making changes does not have to be hard or scary. It can be fulfilling and interesting. So, let’s give it a go! Here is our best advice on what healthy foods you can eat to help you live longer.   Fruits and Vegetables Now you can roll your eyes when you read this… But an apple a day does keep the doctor away. And… you should be eating five pieces of vegetables or fruit a day. These wholefoods are packed with vitamins and minerals that work to help your body function. Supporting your weight, muscles, energy, and especially your digestive system. As a whole, fruit and veg include far less saturated fats and cholesterol, which you only need in small doses to maintain a healthy diet. Not only do they help with your body as it currents stands, but fruit and vegetables also help your future frame. These foods help prevent lots of health risks because of how nutrient-dense they are. Some of the risks they help prevent...

 In the world of healthy living, scientific professionals have concluded that sugars could be more harmful that we initially thought. Growing up we were told to intake sugars in moderation. We were told that sweet treats were fine, as long as it wasn’t the main portion of our meal… That sugars were fine as long as we brushed our teeth well… That sugars were fine and a great distraction technique to get our children to do as they were told… That sugars were fine as long as we kept a healthy lifestyle. Sugars were never the main evil. But are they now though?   Sugar and its benefits Now of course, sugar isn’t 100% bad for you. We all use some sort of sugar in our diets for distinct reasons. Sugar can be a major source of energy for the cells around our body. Pulled straight from the bloodstream, sugar is used for brain fuel and physical energy.   Why is too much sugar bad for you? If we look at the classic health issues that sugars cause, we come across problems such as: diabetes, weight gain, acne, heart disease, fatty liver, mood and hormone changes, cavities, and high blood pressure. This list alone, should make people consider the amount of sugar going into their diet. Any of these additional issues can have a dramatic effect on people’s everyday experiences, and it can be hard to reverse the damage once its done. But its not that simple. Living in the contemporary, convenient twenty-first century, we have simple and easy meals that are pa...

  When defining the concept of whole foods , we are looking at foods that have either not, or barely been processed or refined. Healthy whole foods are natural products that do not contain any artificial substances or additives. They are as natural and as organic as we can get in the food world. Some of these food staple examples include fresh vegetables and fruits, dried fruits, frozen fruits, natural (unflavoured) yoghurts, fish, legumes, pulses, organic nuts , whole grains (barley, oats, brown rice), beans, eggs, and cheese. Working off a whole foods diet may also include limiting, or dodging animal based products or foods with large amounts of fats, sugars, and salts. Why are whole foods so beneficial for our health? As one would assume, whole foods come with plenty of advantages. Whole food products work with your body and can help you intake a good amount of key nutrients and minerals to keep you in optimal health. Interestingly, these products contain phytochemicals (linked to the natural colouring found in vegetables, fruit, and other foods) which contain beneficial resources for the body, that vitamins and minerals can’t necessarily produce, making it a great added bonus for those accumulating whole foods in to their diet. Phytochemicals have been linked to things like lowering body mass, lowering the risk of vascular diseases, and lowering the future risk of some cancers. <b...

  Cooking is a creative, every day activity that can be a great way for you to unwind. It can be a prodigious source of finding your independence and imagination. It can be therapeutic and a lovely way to express yourself. Cooking can also be incredibly inconvenient. When you have finished a busy day at work, or had a chaotic weekend, perhaps one of the last things you want to do, is cook a hearty meal from scratch. In saying this, here are some hints and tips on some essential pantry staples to allow any, and every cooking journey in your kitchen to be convenient, stress free, and easy.   The history of canned foods During the eighteen hundreds tin-coated canned products were introduced as an alternative to bottles. The multifunctional, robust cans were quickly a hit in the British Royal Navy, as the food supplied lasted many months and could be moved in great quantities. They also became popular in New York, USA to sell meats, fish and fruits in local markets. However, the trend didn’t pass on until the late eighteenth hundreds when Gail Bordon invented the highly acclaimed condensed milk . During the second world war, home canning, and preserving food in jars became extremely popular. The concept became a patriotic idea through communities and was heavily suggested by the government for conserving food during rationing periods. The start of vegetables in cans only grew to more and more types of food. Benefits of canned food Through history, <a href="https://wholefoodearth.com/c/canned-vege...

What to do when poppy seeds taste bitter? How to save the bitter taste of poppy seeds so you cans till use it for baking? What to do when your poppy seeds taste bitter? Don't throw it to the bin, you still can fix it.  How do you use poppy seeds? Poopy seeds are known for their distinctive taste and crunch.  Poppy seeds are a nice topping for your baked goodies, like breads, muffins, cupcakes, croissants . We cannot imagine pretzels without it, right?   Are poppy seeds healthy?  Poppy seeds are rich in important nutrients. They are a great source of unsaturated fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, potassium, and iron. The also contains vitamins B, vitamin A, D.    How to save bitter poppy seeds?  Bitter poppy seeds can destroy every dish. To avoid the unpleasant bitter taste, remember to wash your poppy seeds with cold water. Let them stay in water for about 15 minutes. Next step is to  wash the poppy seeds in hot water or milk. At the end of the process you can add a bit of vanilla or almond aroma that will add a pleasant smell and taste.  If you want to use the poppy seeds for cakes and desserts, you need to cook it.  Cooking poppy seeds Cook it with fresh water or milk for about 20-30 minutes on low heat. Stir slowly all the time so it doesn't burn.  Drain the poppy seeds from all the excess liquid.  The poppy seeds will become humid mass which is ready to be used for cakes. Thanks to this the poppy seed ...

When we look at the word Risotto , many of us will think of its appearance on a restaurant menu. It begs the question, of how many people actually consider what it actually contains, or how it is actually made. Risotto, funnily enough, is quite a simple and convenient meal that is packed with flavour and fullness.   Where does Risotto come from? Risotto is a traditional Italian rice cuisine that has simple, but specific ingredients. Risotto has deep roots in northern Italy where there lay plenty of rice fields. There are early recipes that go all the way back to the 14 th and 15 th century, with many Italian recipes, including rice mixed with eggs and meat and then being boiled in broths. Perhaps this is where the concept began?   Cooking Risotto The rice dish is created through heating rice in a combination of liquids and every so often adding more and more of them, till the rice has completely absorbed everything.   What Broth to Add? In terms of what consommé you create for a risotto, it all depends on what flavour you are going for, and/or perhaps what wine you might have in the cupboard. If you are trying to make a traditional version of the dish, it is important to start with white or red wine when absorbi...

  What is Barley? On first glance ‘ barley ’ doesn’t seem like a word that many of us have heard of, or relate to in our day-to-day life. However, barley is the fourth most common grain used across the world. After wheat, rice, and corn, barley is the next grain used in many of our foods and drinks. Barley comes from a cereal plant and can grow in many climates. Hence, why it’s turned out as quite a popular grain.   Where is it from? Originating from northwestern Europe, Egypt and Mesopotamia, Barley was one of the first grains found in ancient civilisations. Now, predominantly grown in western Asia and northeast Africa, Barley is used hugely across countries all around the world.   How is it grown? With adequate care, barley is fairly simple to grow (in the right climate that is). Barley comes in two different flower types, used for different reasons. Six-Row Barley Six-row barley has three spikes on each notch that contain little florets that eventually turn into kernels. This type contains a very high amount of protein, and is therefore used in lots of bulked animal feeds, and as livestock bedding. Two-Row Barley <p data-mce-fragment="1"...

The eco-friendly Planetary Health Diet is made of plant-based protein sourced, fruits and vegetables    This diet has environmental benefits for the planet and health benefits for people   In a new study, researchers said the diet can lower the risk of premature death by 30%   Following a planet-friendly diet of mostly plant-based whole foods like whole grains, vegetables and fruits  reduces the risk of premature death by nearly one-third in people while also dramatically cutting the release of greenhouse gases harmful for the planet, according to a new research. The study was published this week in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition . The researchers claim the Planetary Health Diet reduced the risk of every major cause of death, including heart disease, lung disease and cancer for the study participants. They add the plant-based diet can also help the environment. Dr. Walter Willett, a co-author of the research and the chairman of the Department of Nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Massachusetts, said in a press release: “Shifting how we eat can help slow the process of climate change. And what’s healthiest for the pl...

Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, delicious refreshing summer smoothie. 

Easy to make purple cabbage salad with corn. 

British kids face an adulthood filled with diet-related illnesses due to an increase in unhealthy lifestyle, poor diet rich in fast foods and ultra processed foods. According to the new  report , babies born today will enjoy a year less good health than babies born a decade ago.  The report was published by a think tank The Food Foundation this week. The organisation is now calling for an urgent action from the British Government as these illnesses are “largely preventable” and spare the kids from suffering in their entire lifetime. The study found there has been a steady increase in obesity, diabetes and malnutrition among young children. Type 2 diabetes among under 25s has increased by 22% in the past 5 years.  Shorter and fatter kids According to the report, obesity among kids who are 10-11-year old has increased by 30 per cent since 2006 and kids are now shorter.  The study also found that the average height of five-year-old kids has fallen year-on-year since 2013. Cheap junk food on the rise  The report authors suggest there is a number of reasons for it including aggressive marketing of...

This creamy mushroom risotto is made with organic arborio rice, dried mushrooms, onion and aromatic thyme. 

Popcorn Homemade snack classic! Popcorn is one of the most popular and healthiest snacks you can eat. It is packed with essential nutrients that offer a variety of health benefits. But how healthy it is, it depends on how you prepare it. It is very important to make your popcorn the right way. Try to avoid sugar, caramel coatings, sweet dressings too much salt or oil.    Hummus Healthy and protein-packed chickpeas turned into a delicious paste. H ummus is one of the healthiest spreads you can prepare. Made with cooked and blended chickpea, sesame tahini, olive oil, cumin, garlic, salt, pepper and lemon juice it contains  several important nutrients, including plenty of dietary fibre.    Roasted Almonds Nuts are the healthiest snacks you can eat. Although raw nuts are always healthier than roasted or toasted versions, if you pick roasted once in a while won't do any harm.  Roasted almonds are still rich in healthy fats, protein, and fibre while low in carbohydrates. They also contain  calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin and niacin. The roasted nuts crunchiness pairs better with beer and other drinks.    Olives Olives come in many varieties, and are preserved in many ways in brine, marinated, in oil, there can be even fermented olives.  These small fruits are a great source of healthy fats and fibr...

This easy egg-free frittata with is made with simple healthy ingredients: chickpea flour, green peas, courgette, chives and herbs. Delicious, fluffy, vibrant colour -  perfect for summer brunch or dinner. 

This spiced, chickpea tomato stew is hearty, packed with plant-based protein and perfect to pair with quinoa, bulgur or couscous.

 This easy and delicious cake takes only 30 min to bake!

Easy and delicious ready-made breakfast. It will also make a great afternoon snack.

  Oats are an understated ingredient that sit at the back of so many cupboards just waiting and hoping to be one day turned into a delicious meal. Oats have a great multipurpose and so many people are unaware of how many great and simple recipes you can make with them.     Porridge/Oatmeal Perhaps the most notable recipe for the use of oats is porridge/oatmeal . Porridge is a versatile meal, that is not specified for any particular part of the day. It can act as an acceptable breakfast, snack, smaller dinner, or even lunch. Depending on how much you have of porridge oats it can act as a lighter or heavier meal. Organic porridge oats can be found ready made in most shops, or packed as rolled oats for plenty of portions so it can be an on-the-go option too. Just mixing oats with water or milk and heating till its simmering and its mostly good to go.   Shapeshifting Breakfast Oats A popular time of the day to enjoy oats is in the morning. With a common sweet touch, breakfast oats tend to have a sweet flavouring to it. Whether it’s turned into a warming porridge, crunchy oats granola, a filling cereal bowl, a healthy, protein packed oat bran, or delicious overnight oats; a little bit of fruit, jam or spread can go a long way in adding that extra bit of...

  Flour is an essential ingredient in many of our households. Flour holds a structure that creates a useful base for many recipes in our everyday cooking and baking. You can count on many kitchens having these quintessential flour types, either: self-raising flour, or plain flour/all-purpose flour . These are winner ingredients for your cakes, doughs, pastas, pancakes, and even sauces. They include grinded wheat, which has some great health benefits. Stone ground flour that is unrefined (organic) includes: fibre, protein, minerals and vitamins. Organic wheat flour is great for your nutritional health for many reasons, but it has other advantages too. Organic stone ground flour is far easier for the body to absorb, and tends to be pesticide free also.   Plain flour/All-purpose flour  This popular flour is a great ingredient for all your general kitchen needs. The easy-to-use product can be used in cooking and baking as it has a mixture of hard and soft wheat for different textures. This is a staple for anyone who likes to jump into the kitchen from time-to-time without having to worry about having every ingredient already in the house. Something to note about all-purpose flour, is that it doesn’t contain the leavening agent that self-raising flour is so famously known for. Therefore, if you’re looking for a flour that will help your breads, cakes, and doughs rise, then you’d need to add baking soda or baking pow...

The team of scientists from King's College in London encourages parents to give their kids some peanut butter until they reach the age of five. According to their research giving smooth peanut butter to babies and throughout early childhood, could provide them with lifelong protection against peanut allergy. Teenagers who had it until they were 5 were 71% less likely to develop an allergy than children who never ate peanut butter. Food allergies result from our immune system mistaking something harmless for a severe threat. Kids' early life is a critical period for the immune system to learn to recognise foods and which ingredients are good for them.  The researchers advise parents to give smooth peanut butter during infancy and then regularly until age five. The tiny babies should not not eat crunchy peanut butter or whole peanuts due to the risk of choking. Some parents might be surprised by the latest results. In the past, it was common to avoid peanut butter and peanuts due to the fear of allergies, especially for children under the age of three. In recent years, peanut allergies have become more common, and currently are affecting one-in-50 children. This led to the banning of all kinds of peanut products at schools. As even a small amount of peanut can cause a life-threatening reaction in somebody with an allergy. The latest findings show the previous advice was wrong. The results are based on a 15-year-old clinical trial in which 640 children at high-r...

This Italian classic made from scratch in your own kitchen will taste better than any other!  

This roasted cauliflower dish is rich in plant based protein, fibre and vitamins.