An Amazing List of Foods For Building Muscle

An Amazing List of Foods For Building Muscle

One thing that you need if you are going to be successful with building lean muscle, is a healthy and nutritious diet. But, more than that, you need to know the right food for building muscle.

This is where a lot of people go wrong;they think by slamming down tons of protein shakes and eating massive amounts of food, that they are doing everything they need with their diet to start producing mounds of muscle in no time at all.

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Unfortunately it does not work that way. I mean, if that is all you needed to do, along with a workout regime, everyone would be strutting around showing off their big muscular physiques!

The truth is, you need the right combo of foods for building muscle; the right patterns of what to eat, when to eat, and how often.

The first thing you should know is that there are actually very few “bad foods”; there are some that you may want to avoid while bodybuilding, but they are rarely a cause for you getting fat or not achieving your goals.

However, it is vitally important that you clean house and rid your refrigerator and cupboards of food that are not foods for building muscle.

These Foods Are:

• Sodas & juices – these contain 2 ingredients – sugar & water

• High Fat Processed Meat – bacon, pepperoni, sausage – these all contain a bad fat that will shorten your life span. They are also high in sodium. Do not confuse these meats as good sources of protein.

• Frozen Desserts & Ice Cream – Sugar! Sugar! Sugar! These foods will only add fat, not muscle.

• Sauces – ketchup, barbecue sauce, horseradish sauce, etc. Most of these are high in fructose corn syrup. *Spice foods up naturally without all the sugar and extra calories. *

• Processed Foods – Anything packaged in pretty wrappers, boxes, bags, containers, etc. that contain more than 5 ingredients you cannot pronounce. These are the ones that usually promote some form of “healthiness”, but most have went through a high amount of processing that allows them to preserve a lengthy shelf life. None of this is done with your health in mind. They have usually sucked all the nutrients out. *These foods you should avoid. *

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• Crackers – sodium!

• White Flour Products – white bread, bagels, English muffins etc. By the time they are done “enriching” these breads, 3/4 of all the nutrients have been removed, and almost all of the fibre has been lost.

• Baking Supplies – chemicals

• Potato Chips – Do I need to say anything?!

The next thing you need to do is of course, fill your kitchen up with the right food to build muscle:

• Beverages – water, green tea

• Boneless Chicken Breasts – Organically fed chickens are best, but if your budget does not permit, then regular grain-fed is fine because they carry the least amount of fat.

• Cooking Spray: – canola or olive oil based

• Cheese – feta, goat, havarti, parmesan, and aged white cheddar are best. Eat in moderation due to fat content.

• Dried Fruit – Great for gaining weight and a wonderful source of easy calories. A handful is equal to a large apple in calories. Currants, dates, pears, mangoes, apples and bananas are best. Avoid extra sweetened ones.

• Eggs – Only omega 3 because they were laid by chickens that were fed a diet rich in ground flax seed.

• Egg Whites – Great for protein shakes and omelettes.

• Extra Lean Ground Sirloin – Go for leanest sources available.

• Fruit- apples, grapes, bananas, kiwis, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, mangoes, oranges, tangerines and pineapple

• Grains – oats (not instant because it is loaded with sugar), oat bran, whole flax seeds, quinoa, barley and wheat bran.

• Lean Turkey & Chicken Sausage – occasionally

• Legumes – kidney beans, split peas, chickpeas and lentils are an excellent source of fibre.

• Meat, poultry & Fish – variety

• Mixed Nuts – walnuts, almonds, cashews, pecans and peanuts are the best source of good fat and easy calories

• Sauces & Condiments – pesto, salsa, curry sauce, tomato pasta sauce, balsamic vinegar, white cooking wine, red wine, raspberry vinegar and flavoured flax oil.

• Salmon – Wild salmon is best because it contains no toxins and mercury.

• Spices – salt & pepper, fresh garlic, basil, oregano, chilli powder and cinnamon

• Vegetables – spinach, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, cucumbers, celery and carrots. Choose

• the colours of the rainbow;the more variety the better.

Once you have stacked your kitchen with the right food for building muscle, you will have a great start on your bodybuilding journey!

Over the years of research, I have found one “effective” program that can show you How to Realistically Gain Muscle Mass The Fastest by using well-tested, proven methods that guarantee to give you the results you want.

Acid Reflux Symptoms In Pregnant Women

Acid Reflux Symptoms In Pregnant Women

Acid Reflux Symptoms In Pregnant Women

Acid Reflux Symptoms In Pregnant Women

Eating large meals and eating just before going to bed are not recommended when you are on an acid reflux diet. You are also supposed to avoid fat and/or spicy foods. All of these habits can lead to the increased production of stomach acid that may enter and cause damage to the esophagus. This is particularly true if the closing muscles do not work as they should. The consequence is that you end up with permanent heartburn.

There are many foods to consider when you are speaking about an acid reflux diet. There are foods that should be avoided, foods that can be consumed in moderation and foods that one can definitely have. The first section of the acid reflux diet will deal with the foods that are to be avoided:

Fruit – Lemon, orange juice, lemonade, cranberry juice, tomato and grapefruit juice

Vegetables – Mashed potatoes, raw onion and French fries

Meat – Ground beef or chuck, chicken nuggets, marbled sirloin, buffalo wings

Dairy – Milk shake, sour cream, ice cream and regular cottage cheese

Grains – Spaghetti with sauce and macaroni and cheese

Beverages – Wine, liquor, all coffee whether decaffeinated or regular, all tea whether decaffeinated or regular

Fats/oils – creamy salad dressings, oil and vinegar salad dressing

Sweets/desserts – Chocolate, butter cookies, high-fat, brownies, doughnut, potato chips that are fried and corn chips

The next list of foods are considered to be safe foods if you are on an acid reflux diet:

Fruit – fresh apple, dried apple, banana, apple juice, pineapple, papaya( these help to neutralize stomach acid)

Vegetables – carrots, baked potato, broccoli, cabbage, peas, green beans

Meat – extra-lean ground beef, skinless chicken breast, London Broil steak, fish with no added fat, egg whites, egg substitutes

Dairy – feta or goat cheese, fat-free sour cream, fat-free cream cheese, low-fat soy cheese

Grains – Corn bread, multi-grain or white bread, graham crackers, bran or oatmeal cereal, pretzels, brown or white rice, rice cakes

Beverages – Mineral water

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Fats/oils – low-fat salad dressings

Sweets/desserts – fat-free cookies, red licorice, jelly beans, baked potato chips

The following foods are to be consumed in moderation when you are following an acid reflux diet:

Fruit – low-acid orange juice, peach, apple cider, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, dried cranberries, grapes

Vegetables – onion that is cooked, garlic, leeks, scallions, sauerkraut

Meat – lean ground beef, scrambled eggs in butter, chicken salad, fried eggs, tuna salad, fried fish, beef or pork hot dogs, ham

Dairy – Yogurt, frozen yogurt, 2% or skim milk, low-fat cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese

Grains – Granola cereal, garlic bread, muffin

Beverages – Non-alcoholic wine, non-alcoholic beer, cola, beer, root beer

Fats/oils – Ketchup

Sweets/desserts – low-fat cookie

This is by no means a comprehensive list of the foods that you can consume and avoid on an acid reflux diet but it is a start. When you find that your reflux disease is somewhat under control, then perhaps you can slowly add a food from the forbidden list to see how you will react to it. If it makes your acid reflux worse, then you know to avoid that food for good.

Using A Unique 5-Step Method No One Else Will Tell You About Click here

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Losing Weight by Eating Homegrown Fruits

Losing Weight by Eating Homegrown Fruits

Fruits are sweet and delicious, colorful and nutritious.  We all should eat more fruits and vegetables to maintain our health, but if you are trying to lose weight you will experience the greatest benefits from eating more fresh fruits.  But why just head to the supermarket to pick out a variety of fruits, when you can grow your own fruits at home?

Fruits can be a delicious part of your home garden.  Berries such as strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are easy to grow in many climates.  Melons require a little extra space in the garden, but produce a bounty of juicy fruits like cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon.  How about starting some grapevines in your garden?  Vines make beautiful accents and borders, and sun-ripened grapes are juicy and delicious.  Fruit trees such as peach, pear and apple are lovely ornamental trees for your yard that also can produce a healthy harvest for the whole family.

The bottom line in weight loss is that you need to eat fewer calories than your body uses in order to lose weight.  The U.S. Center for Disease Control reminds us that you don’t necessarily have to eat less food to lose weight.  The CDC suggests that fruits and vegetables should take up the largest portion of your plate.  Try replacing some of the meat, cheese, white pasta, or sugary desserts with fruits to lower your calorie and fat intake.

One of the benefits of adding fruits to your diet is that they are high in fiber.  Fiber-rich foods help you to feel full even though they are low-calorie.  So, if you substitute fruits for high-calorie foods, you’ll still feel satisfied while consuming fewer calories. Most fruits are also naturally low in fat and sodium.

Low calorie fruits include:

Apple – 1 medium: 72 calories Blueberries – 1 cup: 83 calories Grapes – 1 cup: 100 calories Watermelon – 1 wedge: 94 Cantaloupe – 1 medium wedge: 24

Here are some tips on eating fruits:

Keep a bowl of whole fruit available in the fridge or out on the table.  You’ll be more likely to grab a piece of fruit if you can see it. Choose fruit over juice, so you get the benefit of the dietary fiber. Vary your fruit choices so you get a variety of nutrients. Try a low-calorie snack of cut fruit with low-fat yogurt or pudding for dipping. Substitute fresh fruits for high-fat and calorie desserts. Fruit is sweet and satisfying. Pack fresh fruits for lunches or snacks at work.

If you choose to grow your own fresh fruits, you will also burn calories while working in your yard or garden.  Gardening is a great way to exercise and stay active, which will help you reach your weight loss goals.  Your mood can also soar while spending time outdoors in your garden.  The combination of fresh air, sunshine and vigorous activity can relieve stress and lower your blood pressure.

Adding homegrown fruit to your diet is a great way to get healthy and lose weight, so why not get started now?

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The Ice Cream Sundae – It’s History

The Ice Cream Sundae – It’s History

One of the most famous ice cream desserts would have to be the ice cream sundae. Next to the banana split, it is one of the most served ice cream desserts in the United States. A Sundae is just a bowl filled with ice cream and then topped with some type of sauce or syrup. The most common types of sundaes are chocolate caramel, butterscotch, or strawberry. Other toppings are placed on a sundae, but are not part of the orginal makeup. In fact, nuts, dairy cream, and cherries are just an addition to the wonder sundae.

A sundae is called a sundae because most local laws band Ice Cream sodas to be made on Sunday, so this treat was made to be eaten on a Sunday. It was stated that ice cream sodas were too “sinful” and the sundae is just perfect a Sunday afternoon.

The sundae is perfect because it wasn’t too indulging. It’s just one scoop of icecream with a little sweet topping. The spelling came from an old myth that a glass salesman gave Two Rivers canoe shaped bowls. To pay tribute to the bowls the e was used instead of a y. Or maybe the spelling of the sundae didn’t come from Two Rivers. It is also stated that it is spelled s-u-n-d-a-e so as not to disgrace the meaning of Sunday as a treat. Even though the sundae is easy to make, the history is hard to recall. In fact, many people are disputing where the treat came to life.

Do you know where the birthplace of the sundae is? There are various claims to this treat. One claim is that the sundae was invented in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, but they also took back their claim. It has also been claimed that the sundae was also first developed in Plainfield, Illinois, Evanston, Illinois, New York City, New Orleans, Louisiana, Cleveland, Ohio, Buffalo, NewYork, and Ithaca, New York.

However the rivalry is between Ithaca and Two Rivers. In 2006 the mayor Ithaca had dozens of complaints from Two Rivers about the claim to the title. It was a reponse to Ithaca after they claimed they had proof of the sundae orginality in their town. To Ithaca it is an honor that they will fight for. Two River’s claim that the sundae formed in their town because 1881 a soda jerk poured chocolate syrip over ice cream. It was sold only on Sundays in Two Rivers.

Ithaca’s claim to fame was to be in 1891, a local pastor placed bowls of ice cream with chocolate syrup and a cherry on top just as a new treat. The sundae can go back as far was 1892, where documented advertisements for cherry sundaes were featured.

Who knows who really invented the sundae, but boy do they taste good! There are many different types of sundaes that you can purcahse all over the country. You have the classic hot fudget sundae which is the most popular type of sundae. Most of the time it is made with vanilla ice cream, but chocolate ice cream has also been a popular form. You have also heard of the carmel sundae. With a caramel sauce drizzeled on top of vanilla ice cream and usually has pecans thrown on top.

You can also find the strawberry sundae at any local store, but there are many other flavors that are offered now. You can get pineapple, marshmellow (in where a creamy sauce is poured over vanilla ice cream), blueberry, raspberry, cold chocolate, and banana and so on. There are over hundred different types of sundaes, but the most expensive sundae to be documented was sold for thousand American dollars.

It consists of five scoops of rich vanilla bean ice cream covered in edible gold leafs that are made from a rare and expensive chocolate. Then it is covered with passion fruit, oranges, golden caviar, and candied fruits. The cherries are made out of marzipan that has real gold touches. It is served in a crystal goblet and a golden spoon.

A fast and easy yet flavorfull dessert
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Lemon-herb Leg of Lamb Meal Suitable for Diabetics and Others

Lemon-herb Leg of Lamb Meal Suitable for Diabetics and Others

This menu features a lemon-herb leg of lamb prepared with fresh lemon juice and delicious spices such as rosemary, oregano, and thyme.  Just imagine the aroma coming from your oven!  We’ve gone back to our vintage recipes and pulled out an old-fashion recipe for lacy potato fritters for this meal.  We know diabetics have to be cautious about potatoes but this fritter recipe contains two eggs which suppy protein to counteract some of the starchy carbs in the potatoes.  Serve with our creamy lettuce salad, where boiled eggs also add to the protein count in this meal.  Finish off your meal with a dessert of delicious and lite assorted mini-cheesecakes that are diabetic friendly and they are delicious for anyone.  No need for a diabetic dessert and a regular dessert.

LEMON-HERB LEG OF LAMB

2 tsp fresh lemon juice

1 1/2 tsp grated lemon peel

1 tsp garlic salt

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried rosemary, crushed

1 tsp ground mustard

1 boneless leg of lamb, approx 4 lb, rolled and tied

In a small bowl, combine the first 7 ingredients.  Rub over the lamb.  Cover and refrigerate overnight.  Next day, place lamb on the rack of a shallow roasting pan.  Bake, uncovered, for 1 3/4 to 2 1/4 hours.  For medium rare, a meat thermometer should read 145 degrees, medium 160 degrees, well-done 170 degrees.  Let stand 15 minutes before slicing. 

LACY POTATO FRITTERS

2 eggs
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp flour
1 tbsp baking powder
3 Idaho potatoes, peeled
Vegetable oil for frying

In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs, stir in garlic, soy sauce, sesame seeds, flour, baking powder. Grate potatoes coarsely using the large blades of a hand grater or food processor. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from potatoes; stir in egg batter. Heat about two inches of oil to 325 degrees in an electric fry pan or deep fryer. Drop a forkful of potato mixture into hot oil. Mixture should spread to make a lacy effect. Brown quickly on one side; turn with fork and brown other side. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining mixture. Makes about three dozen fritters.

CREAMY LETTUCE SALAD

3 hard-boiled eggs

1 lb pkg ready-to-serve salad

1 medium tomato, diced

1/4 cup diced red onion

Dressing:

3/4 cup light mayonnaise

3 1/2 tbsp milk

2 tbsp Splenda

2 tbsp cider vinegar

Dice two of the boiled eggs, cut the third into wedges and reserve it for garnish.  In a salad bowl, combine the salad greens, tomato, onion, and diced eggs.  In a jar with a tight fitting lid, combine the dressing ingredients.  Shake the jar until dressing is well blended.  Pour over the salad and toss to coat.  Garnish with the egg wedges.  Serve immediately.

MINI  ASSORTED CHEESECAKES

1 pkg of 6 mini graham cracker pie shells

1 (1 oz) pkg instant sugar-free fat-free cheesecake pudding mix

6 tbsp no-sugar-added cherry pie filling

6 tbsp no-sugar-added blueberry pie filling

6 tbsp sugar-free whipped topping, optional

Prepare pudding mix according to package directions.  Fill mini pie shells about 2/3 full (this will leave some pudding left over). Top pudding with 2 tablespoons of pie filling per pie alternating between the two pie fillings.  Refrigerate until serving time.  Top with a tablespoon of whipped topping if desired.

Note: For added garnish and crunch, a sprinkle of toasted almonds scattered over the whipped topping adds a nice touch.

Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

Brownie Mixes And More From Sticky Fingers Bakeries: Enjoy Great Tastes, Fast

Brownie Mixes And More From Sticky Fingers Bakeries: Enjoy Great Tastes, Fast

Brownie mixes from Sticky Fingers Bakeries ensure that every batch turns out great. Instead of undergoing the time, hassle and mess that goes into traditional brownie baking, buy brownie mixes from our online store and enjoy a gourmet treat that gives you the flavors you love without any of the headaches. We make unbeatable desserts and snacks easier than ever before!

Sticky Fingers Bakeries sells you the finest brownie mixes available, bringing you the joy of homemade baking without requiring the time that goes into making treats from scratch! Our brownie mixes are handcrafted by the Sticky Fingers Bakeries kitchens with unparalleled recipes and all-natural ingredients like stone-ground wheat, buttermilk powder and, of course, lots and lots of quality chocolate. Each of our brownie mixes [chocolate fudge, mint chocolate chip, espresso fudge and original] only requires you to add water, egg and oil and always comes out tasting great. With Sticky Fingers Bakeries you’re always able to enjoy warm, chewy brownies — straight from the oven — with complete convenience!

We also sell a wide variety of mixes that create great baking products aside from our delicious brownie mixes. Shop at Sticky Fingers Bakeries to find exceptional snacks suitable for any palette! Our store offers delicious scone mixes [in flavors like original, cinnamon raisin, cocoa-chocolate chip, wild blueberry, lemon poppy seed and apple cinnamon], muffin mixes [including wild blueberry, morning glory and apple date oat bran], one-of-a-kind Irish soda bread and an array of mouthwatering, fresh Northwest jams [in raspberry, blueberry and huckleberry-raspberry] and English curds [in cranberry, lemon or orange] perfect for accompanying any order.

At Sticky Fingers Bakeries, we’re committed to giving our customers baked goods that combine great taste with healthy ingredients. Sticky Fingers Bakeries refuses to use any artificial preservatives, flavors or coloring in our brownie mixes and other delicious products. Instead, we pack each item with the finest all-natural ingredients like fresh veggies, fruits, spices and herbs. This results in delectable treats without any of the guilt. Since Sticky Fingers Bakeries uses pure canola oil our products have no saturated fats or trans-fats too!

Visit our online store to browse our complete catalog, learn more about our company or find a retailer close to your home. The Sticky Fingers Bakeries website is full of helpful information that lets you find the perfect treats for you and your family to enjoy. Find fun facts and the history of the different foods we supply or just peruse each of our delectable item varieties to get started in making a perfect order for you to experience.

Enjoy delicious desserts, snacks and special treats today by placing an order for gourmet brownie mixes at Sticky Fingers Bakeries. We’re always ready to help you in making any meal or snack special by offering an array of premium mixes for the foods you love — without the hassle that goes into making them from scratch.

For more information on Sticky Fingers Bakeries and our premium brownie mixes, visit StickyFingersBakeries.

Spice Up Fall With J.p. Licks? Seasonal Desserts and Coffee

Spice Up Fall With J.p. Licks? Seasonal Desserts and Coffee

DATELINE:  BOSTON; BROOKLINE; CAMBRIDGE; JAMAICA PLAIN; NEWTON CENTRE; SOMERVILLE AND WEST ROXBURY, MA…

J.P. Licks’ new Pumpkin Custard ice cream tops the list, tasting just like Grandma’s pie.  It’s made with real pumpkin and eggs and spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg and molasses.  J.P. Licks’ Carrot Cake ice cream is true to form and made with fresh carrots, raisins, brown sugar and cinnamon.

Both are limited edition flavors and available through November, while supplies last.

Cakes & Pies for Thanksgiving

J.P. Licks’ ultra rich Pumpkin Pies and Carrot Cakes are good reasons to volunteer to bring dessert this Thanksgiving.  The Pumpkin Pie has a buttery graham cracker crust and is made with J.P. Licks’ rich Pumpkin Custard ice cream.

The Carrot Cake is made with J.P. Licks’ Carrot Cake ice cream and hand packed for a denser, heavier cake.  It’s topped with a thick layer of real cream cheese frosting.  Baby cakes, which are 6” around and serve six to 10 people, are in stock in all the stores.  Medium size (8” around, serving eight to 15) and large size (10” around, serving 12-20) cakes are also available with 24 hour notice.  Prices on all cakes range from .99 to .99.

Don’t forget to pick up a pint of J.P. Lick’s Wild Turkey Bourbon ice cream.  It’s made with liquor and will kick off Thanksgiving in a whole new way!                              

Check out these other sumptuous flavors available through November at J.P. Licks:

French Vanilla*; Peanut Butter Oreo; El Diablo (a spicy chocolate); Pumpkin Cheesecake*; Vermont Maple lowfat yogurt; Cranberry Orange Sorbet; Pumpkin Lactose Free* and Lime Sherbet.    * Items contain eggs.

The featured sundae of the month is a Gingerbread Sundae.  Other non-frozen treats available: M&M party Cookie; Pumpkin Chip Cookie; Frosted Pumpkin Muffin; Vegan Blueberry Muffin; Maple Walnut Scone; Frosted Pumpkin Loaf; Cranberry Orange Nut Loaf; Gingerbread Squares.

Drink in Some Holiday Cheer

J.P. Licks will offer their special Holiday Blend coffee all through November and December. It is a syrupy, smooth blend, with strong spice notes and very warming for the holidays.

Visit jplicks.com for all locations.           

Best of Boston and Beyond                 

For more than 25 years, J.P. Licks has been serving homemade ice cream and other specialties in their eight Kosher-certified shops in and around Boston.  Locally owned and operated, J.P. Licks has won many awards over the years for their intensely-flavored homemade ice cream and frozen yogurt.  Most recently, J.P. Licks was named “Best of Boston” and “Best Location – Jamaica Plain” by Boston Magazine and also made WBZ’s “A-List” for the second year in a row.  Known for their high quality, scrumptious treats and their knack for “treating people right”, J.P. Licks was named Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce’s “Small Business of the Year”.

In addition to their frozen creations, J.P. Licks roasts their own fair trade and organic coffee beans on-site at their Jamaica Plain store, which ensures the best and the freshest, full-bodied cup of coffee around.  Decadent hand-packed ice cream cakes as well as breakfast & ice cream sundae catering are also available. 

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Healthy Food: Don’t Be Scared

Healthy Food: Don’t Be Scared

Something that’s on the mind of many adults is eating a healthy diet. It can be daunting to even consider how to go about losing weight or changing your habits. Once you know the right foods to eat, you can begin your journey to better living. If nothing else you should remember this: natural foods are the best for you. That tip about not eating ingredients that you can’t pronounce is pretty accurate. Whole and fresh foods are best. Fresh vegetables and fruits help keep your blood vessels strong and are essential to a heart-healthy diet. You know the saying about having an apple a day, but also consider new fruits to spice things up. According to some research, papaya and blueberries are two of the 25 most heart-healthy foods. Color variety is a good indicator of what to eat. Bright green spinach and broccoli and red bell peppers are all good for your heart. Don’t be afraid to try ethnic dishes to have a new and tasty way to eat your produce. Are you thinking about protein now? Many people believe meat and fish are a no-no with a healthy diet. The truth is that there are numerous protein options that are actually good for you. You may know about eating fish with omega-3 fatty acids, but also consider tofu. Firm tofu is full of magnesium, potassium and other nutrients and is very good for grilling or stir-fry. For good fats, consider black or kidney beans. Walnuts and almonds also have good fats in the form of plant omega-3’s. Adding whole grains to these protein sources is a great way to consume vital heart-healthy nutrients. Another tip is to indulge yourself once in a while. You’re probably very grateful to hear that. Treats like dark chocolate and red wine are actually good for you. Red wine and dark chocolate have nutrients that are good for your heart and blood vessels, but with dark chocolate it’s important that it has a cocoa content of 70% or more to get the best effect. With all desserts and snacks, eating them in moderation or only occasionally is the best piece of advice. When you eat food without feeling guilty or like you’re “cheating,” you’re less likely to overindulge. When you incorporate small changes into all aspects of your life, it’s less challenging to start and maintain a healthy diet. That includes a healthy balance of different foods as well as exercise and other activities that help you enjoy life.

Losing Weight With the Minus Diet Super Soup Diet

Losing Weight With the Minus Diet Super Soup Diet

MINUS DIET SUPER SOUP

1lb. bag of baby carrots rinsed

2 cups fresh spinach

1/2 bunch of celery

1-4 cloves of garlic

1 red or green bell pepper

1 stalk of broccoli

1 cup of brown rice(uncooked)

1 large can of diced or stewed tomatoes

2 packages of onion soup mix

Mrs. Dash’s herb seasoning to cover top of soup ( your choice of mix)

Large 2 gallon stock pot (stainless steel)

Cut up all the above ingredients. Add water to cover. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 hour.

This makes enough soup for one for about 1`week.

Many people prefer to start the diet on a Monday, or on the weekend on a Saturday, when working people have time to cook, and do their other chores.

This soup will be your main meal for both lunch and dinner. However, if you want to follow my modified version, or use this as your week off meal, then you can add chicken breast to the soup, or eat a lean meal of chicken, steak, or other lean meat with a side salad with a light vinagrette dressing that is apple cider based.

I recommend that you eat at least 6 times per day. Three main meals and 3 snacks. Or 3 main all negative calorie foods and 1 main low fat dinner with your family or by yourself, if you are single. Always make enough soup so that you don’t run out and have none to eat. That is a sure way to sabotage your success.

You absolutely cannot afford to drink less than one gallon of water or so per day. You can squeeze some lemon or orange juice into the water (they must be fresh). Drink before and after your meals if you can.

If you work outside the home, make sure you have containers or thermos to carry your soup with you for lunch or dinner. I disagree with the negative calorie diet here again. I think you can have diet beverages like flavored water, that are sweetened with Splenda ™ and drink green tea(decaffeinated) or Oolong, or some herbal tea. I think you can have 2 glasses of skimmed milk a day, too. A diet you don’t stay on is no diet at all. You can make it a raw food diet with soup or also do some juice fasting. For one of the best compendiums on fasting and juicing see both my book YOur New You, 30 days to Transform Your Body and Dr. How and When to Be Your onw Doctor which is a great public domain book that has detailed instructions on both plain water and juice fasting by a natural medicine Doctor and Registered nurse. I include both books for 34.95 and inclusion into membership into my diet and fitness clubs. You can purchase membership in either one for only 19.95 separately. I include many bonus e-books and active forums where you can interact with other men and women trying to lose weight and get into shape just like you. The Minus Diet membership site is located at www.minusdiet.com and Your New You – Transform your body in 30 days is located at www.yournewyou.com. I promise you that with a little will power and determination, you can lose at least 3-5 pounds per week or more and keep it off for good, if and only if you follow the plan. How much you lose depends on many factors, including body type, age, metabolism, and if you have any underlying chronic conditions like diabetes or thyroid problems. You can reduce your need for insulin by taking natural substances like cinnamon, but you absolutely must follow your health practitioners instructions to the letter if you have a chronic condition like these. IN NO CASE CAN YOU REDUCE INSULIN SAFELY without being carefully monitored by a physician. You must have him or her look at the plan and give you any modifications necessary to ensure your health and safety. Don’t get discouraged. You can still lose weight safely, naturally, and effectively even with these conditions. It will just take more care, and maybe a little bit more time. The main thing to remember is that you CAN do it! If I can, you can! You absolutely, however, even with all these fake promises, never really lose weight quickly and effectively without a combination of diet and exercise. There really is no such thing as a “magic pill” solution or permanent weight loss without exercise.

Between meals, try to drink water or another beverage mentioned above, before you eat your snack of fruit or celery or carrots. You can also have a fruit smoothie made with fresh fruit and ice. Strawberries, blueberries, or a mix with grape or carrot apple juice is good, too. I recommend that you get a juicer. You can get a juicer at Canadian Tire for less than 150.00. There is nothing like fresh juice to detoxify and cleanse your body. Nothing tastes better, either. Consider this diet a modified raw food diet with just a little bit of soup added. A sensible dinner, too, if you want to follow that modified plan. It is more effective if you stay on the straight, Minus Calorie diet for one week at a time, going back to a modified form on the off weeks, eating at least 70 to 80% minus or negative calorie foods.

In any event, no more junk food. Eat fruit instead or drink a smoothie or some juice. You can add two protein drinks a day or substitute one for one meal, but that will make the diet less effective, but make the hunger pangs less. Remember, those with more than 10 pounds to lose, need to do it gradually to keep it off, anyways. 3 to 5 pounds a week is plenty fast enough. You may lose more with exercise, but in any event, no diet will help you lose it faster, and help you keep it off, if you follow it properly.

Remember to reward yourself with a night out, or something small, but nice for yourself. Don’t go crazy, and mess up your diet, though. You can drink up to 6 glasses of juice per day, plus lots of water. The juice must be negative or minus calorie, though. Apple/Carrot or Grape watermelon, or orange juice or strawberry cranberry or mixed will work. Cherry can be added in season.

Breakfast is the pillar meal of the day on this diet. Eat the fruits recommended, but you can substitute oranges or tangerines for the other fruits if you wish, but you will need to eat more. Eat until you are full, but not stuffed.

BREAKFAST FRUITS

Cantaloupe

Grapefruit

Watermelon

Honeydew Melon

Oranges or tangerines

Papaya

Pineapple

Strawberries

You can mix these fruits or eat fruit salad, if you want, as long as these fruits are used. These fruits contain enzymes that help you digest your meals all day long.

SNACKS

This list is short. You can eat any of the above fruits or Apples, Celery, or carrots. You can also take a smoothie made of the above fruits or one of the minus calorie fruits listed previously or in combination. Six glasses of fresh fruit a day is recommended. It must be freshly juiced in a juicer, though. No, canned or frozen juice. No diet soda, either. Stay with the above recommendations. I think you could get away with one frozen fruit bar a day. Nothing else, though. Anything else, and you have failed. Salad makes a good snack, too. Stick to vineagrette dressing or olive oil and cider vinegar, though.

1ST DAY

Breakfast: Eat the fruits mentioned above until comfortably full. Eat slowly and deliberately, savoring each mouthful .

Snack: I don’t recommend you skip your snacks. You will be tempted to eat outside the diet if you do. Drink water or juice or a smoothie before the fruit and vegetables, though. You will feel full, sooner.

Lunch: Eat some soup. The more you eat the better. Just remember, full, not gorged. You can eat some salad with a light vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar dressing, if you want.

Snack: Same as the first snack, just eat something different, for variety’s sake.

Dinner: Eat one or two bowls of soup. If you can eat more if you want to. Eat as many vegetables as you want from the list. Eat a piece of fruit, too. No meat or fish for the first day. Drink 6 glasses (8 oz) if juice today. Use your juicer. Carrot/apple is a favorite. Strawberry/grape or Cranberry/apple or grape would be great, too. Drink plenty of bottled water. Squeeze fresh lemon juice or orange juice in the water if you wish, for flavor.

Snack: One more or smoothie

That is all for today. You can do it! You only have 6 more just like it. With a few surprises, as well. You can almost feel the fat melting off your body. Don’t weigh yourself on the scale until the first week is up. Then you will have something to celebrate!

DAY 2

Breakfast: Eat one of the minus calorie fruits or mix them up. Eat slowly and thoroughly. Enjoy your breakfast

Drink water with lemon or orange and some juice. Apple/Carrot if you like.

Snack: Water first. Then orange, apple, strawberries or melon. Tangerine too.

Lunch: Eat a bowl of soup or two. You can eat fresh fruit afterwards.

Snack: More juice. Drink some water, too. or a smoothie. Have some fruit and or vegetables like carrots and celery.

Maybe some salad with dressing. Make sure it is vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar.

Dinner: Soup and all vegetables but peas and corn (too starchy). You can eat a baked potato. You can have some mustard on it, or if you want, one pat of margarine that is heart healthy, like BECEL. Add some seasoning like Mrs. Dash. No Chicken or Fish today.

Snack: Some fruit again or a smoothie or some vegetables. Maybe a frozen fruit bar. Make sure you have your six glasses of juice. One after Each meal. One at each snack time. That is the way to purify and detoxify your system and help your digestion. Make sure you have some more water and lemon.

Enjoy the feeling of losing and burning the fat. You’re really on your way, now. Only 5 more days to go! Onward!

DAY 3

Breakfast: Eat one or more of the listed fruits. Take your time. Enjoy!

Snack: Pick one of the fruits you have on hand. Drink a glass of fresh juice from the juicer. Make a smoothie. Drink some water.

Lunch: Your daily bowl of super soup. Eat any fruit or vegetable you want. Eat until you are full. After you eat, have a glass of water.

Snack: Drink some juice and water. Eat some fruit or have a smoothie.

Dinner: More soup. Eat plenty of soup. Make sure your servings are large enough. More water about 30 minutes after your meal.

Snack: More water. Some fruit or salad with vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar. A smoothie or some fruit and or vegetables.

Remember, you’re melting fat off regularly now. Soon you’ll need to buy new clothes as a reward for all your hard work. Drink some more water.

DAY 4

Breakfast: Eat some fruits for breakfast. Mix and match, don’t be afraid. Eat at least 2 servings of fruit so you don’t hungry too soon.

Snack: Drink more water and add some lemon or orange juice that you squeeze from the fresh fruit. You can add some cinnamon if you want for flavor. Cinnamon is a natural antibiotic and helps your blood sugar normalize. Have some herbal tea or some green or oolong tea with your meal or snack. Use some stevia for sweetening. You can get it at the health food store or at.

Lunch: More soup. Have some more fruits and vegetables. Drink some water after lunch.

Snack: More fruit or a smoothie. Have some green tea or oolong. You can get some that promises you will lose a jean size per week here. Insert link.

Drink your fresh juice.

Dinner: Eat the soup. Eat the soup. You know it’s good for you. Eat some vegetables and fruit from the lists. Have some water after.

Snack: Some more fruit. A smoothie. A cup of tea. Maybe a frozen fruit bar.

Hey! Are you feeling a little skinnier today? Pretty soon you will notice your clothes are getting loose. Make sure if the weather is nice you go for a 30 minute or longer walk to burn those calories. Have some water when you get back.

Only 3 more days to go! Get down! You’re on your way!

DAY 5

Breakfast: Eat your fruit this morning! Mix and match. Eat slowly dreaming of your sexy new body. Soon you will have it for real. Drink some more water.

Snack: Drink some water, and have your juice. Did you remember your juice with breakfast? If not, drink 2 glasses of fresh juice. Remember to drink only freshly juiced juice. No canned or frozen. This is the real thing. Full of life giving enzymes and the full gamut of vitamins and minerals.

Have a smoothie or some fruit. Mix it up. Until you are full.

Lunch: Soup. Have a salad with light vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar. Add some fruit if you like as an add on. Drink some water after lunch.

Snack: Water and juice. Remember to drink some fresh juice after each meal. and Drink one glass at each snack time. If you forgot, drink 2 8 oz. glasses of fresh squeezed juice, now. Remember the juices detoxify your body and help you to keep your blood sugar steady. That is good for keeping your appetite under control. If you are a diabetic make sure you keep your servings to what you are allowed under your diet. No more.

Dinner: Great deal! Tonight, you can have chicken or fish, after you eat at least one bowl of soup. Measure out no more than 10 oz. of fish or chicken. All that time without protein, means you need some now. If you prefer, or are a vegetarian, you can substitute black beans for the meat or fish. Just cook some or heat up a can for your self. Have some salad for a side dish. Even a few servings with a light vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar salad dressing. You can have some water or some green tea or herbal tea too. If it’s warm out make some iced tea. Just don’t add any sugar. Use stevia instead for sweetening, or a little honey.

You will easily burn off the chicken or fish. You are almost through the week and have burned off some major fat by now. Start adding the 2x daily workouts I will show you after we get through with the menus. See yourself getting thinner and thinner. Wait until day 8 to weigh yourself, for the maximum results. Good going.

Snack: Some water first and some juice. If you didn’t drink your juice at dinner make yourself 2 glasses. Make a smoothie or freeze to take the edge off and for some variety. You can have some negative calorie fruit, too.

Congratulations! Only 2 more days to go!

DAY 6

Breakfast: Eat your usual fruit, but try something different for variety. Keep yourself to negative calorie fruits, though. Try a smoothie for something different. I will give you some recipes in a separate e-book. Make sure to drink some green tea. Make it decaffeinated. Drink some water 30 minutes after you eat. Add some lemon, lime, or orange juice you squeeze from the fresh fruit into the bottle of water.

Snack: Drink some water. Drink some Juice. Make it apple carrot or some apple/carrot/ cucumber for some extra cooling power when it is hot. See my e book a New You for all the juice recipes.

Lunch: Eat your usual bowl of soup. Have two, even better! Have any fruits and vegetables from the list at the beginning of the book. Eat your fill. Drink some water with lemon, lime, or orange juice squeezed in.

Snack: Have your juice at each meal, and at each snack time. If you forgot your fresh juice at Lunch, then have 2 glasses at Snack time. Make sure it is fresh from your juicer. Try to get organic fruits and vegetables for the best results. Have some green tea! You can ice it if you want with some lemon and honey added for flavor. Add about 1/8 teaspoon of cinnamon for flavor. Remember what I told you about cinnamon? It’s great for you. Drink some water, too.

Dinner: Eat some fish tonight from the list. Bake everything or broil it. I use a George Foreman or Pannini Grill. You can cook it in 4 minutes. Tastes great, and no fat, either. You can get yours here: add link. For vegetarians: Use some black beans, they taste great and have plenty of protein, too! Use either the dried variety or heat up a can. You can make a great salad with light vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar. Check out my salad ebook for some ideas!

Snack: Have some great tasting fruit from the list, or have yourself a great fruit smoothie! First, drink your juice. 2 glasses if you didn’t drink some after dinner. Grape/Cherry is a nice change of pace. Remember your green or oolong tea. Don’t forget the honey and cinnamon. You can add a squeeze of orange juice, too.

Drink some water, too.

Guess what? You only have one day more to go to finish your first week. Isn’t that great! You are really getting there. This isn’t that hard, is it? Pretty soon it’s reward time. Great going!

DAY 7

Breakfast: Eat some fruit as usual. Mix it up. Savor it today. Just be glad your alive and this is your last day on the restricted diet. Celebrate!

Drink some juice about 30 minutes after breakfast or have a smoothie? Great!

Snack: You know it by now. Have some fruit. Mix it up. First, drink your juice. 2 glasses if you forgot your after breakfast juice. Drink some water, too. Then, eat the fruit. Have some green or oolong or wulong. Does it work, let me know at the forum.

Lunch: Eat your soup, please. Any fruits and vegetables from the list that you want, too. You can substitute a salad with the usual vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar. Drink some juice or water after the meal. You’re almost there!

Snack: Drink your juice and water, too. Then have some fruit. More water, too. Drink some green tea or wulong. Listen to some of your favorite music and dance! Soon you’ll want to show off your great new shape at the hottest clubs in your area!

Dinner: Eat your last bowl of soup for this week. Have another on me. Make yourself a nice salad. Use the proper salad dressing. Have two helpings if you want. Have some fruit for dessert. Have your after dinner glass of juice.

Snack: Water, please. Have your last glass of juice for the day. You can make yourself a nice glass of tea, too.

Slap yourself a five! You hit the finish line going 80. Walk again and don’t forget that you should have done your twice daily workout, too.

You should be feeling really firm, now. Tomorrow is weigh yourself day, and reward yourself, day. Just have a smoothie or something light. Keep up the good work. If you have more than 10 lbs. to lose than alternate your Minus Diet restricted weeks with your relaxed diet. Otherwise, what you can do is to add meat, lean beef or chicken or fish with dinner. That will slow down your weight loss initially, but you can make up for it over the long run. You will still lose 3 to 5 pounds a week if you are exercising. You CANNOT lose weight without some form of exercise and keep it off. Your just fooling yourself. But you can make it a form of exercise you enjoy. The exercises I will show you next , will be fun, effective, fast, and easy.

That is the best form of exercise. One you will do, on a regular basis.

DAY 8

It’s the big day you have been waiting for with bated breath. Weigh yourself first thing in the morning. If you followed the plan, you lost some weight! Celebrate by doing something you enjoy. If it’s exercise in disguise, even better. Continue having Fruit each morning for breakfast. Stay away from fast food. If you have to, eat their salads with oil and vinegar or italian or low calorie dressing.

Make sure you don’t fall off the wagon, now. Not after all your hard work.

A lot of people sabotage themself at this point. Just add a little meat or fish or beans to your diet. Keep the rest minus calorie foods. If you want, add some brown rice or a baked potato at dinner. If you want a burger eat it without mayonnaise and substitute mustard instead. Ask for extra vegetables on it. Get a side salad, too. With low calorie dressing.

Keep your six a day fix of fresh fruit juices. Mix them up. Add some vegetable juice twice a day. Make sure it is from your juicer. Juiced fruits and vegetables are more concentrated in their nutrients and tastier, too. Make a smoothie at least 2 times a day. Use some bottled water in it and add ice, too. They are great for weight loss. Try to eat at oriental restaurants and eat the steamed dishes. Try to stay away from any more than one serving of rice. Italian and mexican dishes are good if you stay away from the sour cream and too much pasta. Cut up your snack fruits and vegetables or rinse and bag them in ziploc bags and store them in the refrigerator. Keep some in the freezer for quick smoothies.

At home get some whole wheat tortillas and make some chicken and beef fajitas. Get a wok and make some stir fry every night you can. I can eat it any time. Get some flavorful sauces and add them to the pot.

When baking substitute applesauce instead of oil. Use stevia instead of sugar. You can substitute olive oil for margarine or use becel margarine with some fresh garlic and use light bread if you can for great garlic bread.

In pasta, use chicken instead of ground beef, or subtitute ground turkey or chicken. You can also use shitake mushrooms instead of meat and make a chunky vegetable vegetarian spaghetti sauce. Use your imagination. The sky is the limit.

Understand the power of this diet comes from raw foods and eating a lot of fruits and vegetables. That is the key to it’s effectiveness.

Just substitute healthy foods for unhealthy ones. If you must fry, use a little olive oil. It is the best for you. Use herbs instead of lots of salt. Add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper or paprika to foods. It helps rev up your metabolism.

I just read some interesting tips in Woman’s World Magazine. It’s my favorite diet magazine. It always has excellent tips.

Here they are:

1. French Fries are actually good for you – provided you prepare them properly. French fries contain potassium- a mineral 80% of women are deficient in. Kidney stones and brittle bones can result. Potatoes are low in calories and loaded with fiber and potassium. You can even cook them in oil, if you use olive oil. Fried foods don’t cause cancer according to a study done at the Harvard School of Public Health which found that no link existed between frying foods and cancer.

2. Cashews are another good food. The monosaturated fatty acids in cashews actually help to prevent blood pressure from rising. If you eat 1 oz. of cashews about 8 minutes before a meal, you will remain satisfied from the meal 10 times longer than normal, which helps dieters immensely.

3. Hummus are another food that is excellent for you. Chickpeas help women with improving blood cholesterol levels, and artery function, which helps prevent heart disease.

4. Garlic is another fantastic health ingredient. Besides being an excellent natural antibiotic, it also contains sulforaphane, which protects eye cells from damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

5. Iced latte is another food that is surprisingly good for you. Coffee beans are actually berries and have more antioxidants than any other. Coffee is linked to lowering cancer risk, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Coffee also reduces the risk of headaches. Using skim milk reduces your risk of developing high blood pressure by up to 54%.

6. Apple pie is also beneficial. Eating apples reduces the risk of heart disease and helps keep your lungs working right. Apples have a high concentration of flavonoids, an antioxidant that destroys harmful free radical toxins around us.

7. Cinnamon, as I told you earlier, is an excellent, spice, both taste wise and health wise. Cinnamon both regulates insulin, and lowers blood choleterols levels by up to 26%. In addition, cinnamon is a potent natural antibiotic that kills viruses and harmful bacteria.

8. Chocolate covered strawberries, and dark chocolate in general, help you on two fronts. First, the strawberries contain fisetin, a natural substance that helps memory and prevents Alzheimer’s disease. Dark chocolate, like cinnamon, helps regulate insulin. I’ve also read it helps your libido, and is good for the heart, too.

9. Lastly, a great energy booster is the old favorite, cheese and crackers.

Cheese helps prevent tooth decay, and the protein and high fiber crackers mixed together gives you long lasting energy. In addition, the phytonutrients in flaxseed flour, if you can get it, lowers breast cancer by up to 55%.

If you have diabetes, two other findings may help you out. Cinnamon, again, lowers your need for insulin. You can add 1/2 teaspoon into your oatmeal coffee, tea, or orange juice, or a stick added to your tea 2 times per day.

The other thing you need to watch is starches and processed foods that make your blood sugar spiral upwards out of control, including the following foods:

sweet corn, potatoes, cereals, grapes, and bananas. On the minus diet, you would only need to cut out grapes. Bananas are too starchy to be a minus calorie food.

When Spring is here, use the following tips to reduce your allergy problems.

Enjoy nuts, fish, flaxseed and apples. The nuts, fish, and flaxseed are full of omega-3 fatty acids which keep your immune system strong and help it fight off viruses and bacteria while also protecting your system from reacting to pollen. The apples contain flavonoids as mentioned above, which destroy airway inflammation up to 32%. The other things you can do is find out what house plants are causing allergic reactions and eliminate them. You need to both take a shower and rinse off the pollen off your body and use saline nasal sprays to internally cleanse the nostrils, since researchers found that 84% of people who wash their nasal passages have fewer sinus problems.

Types of Gourmet Cakes

Types of Gourmet Cakes

There are different types of gourmet cakes according to the ingredients used.

Gourmet cakes are moist and sweet desserts. They are stylish cakes of assorted artistic designs. There are many different types of gourmet cakes you can try baking, and some examples are discussed here.

A bundt cake is cooked in a bundt pan (fluted and grooved sides). It is a simple flavored cake with no added designs on top. The most popular bundt cake flavors are vanilla, peanut butter, banana and cream, apple, butter, chocolate, carrot and cinnamon.

Chocolate flavored gourmet cakes are one of the most popular. It uses dark chocolate or ganache instead of milk chocolate. It makes the cake so rich, creamy and flawless. There is a wide variety of chocolate gourmet cakes. There is the mousse meringue, filled with rich chocolate mousse, and finished with cream. The Dessert Torte is a dense layer of cake filled and topped with a ganache and mini chips.

Other chocolate gourmet cakes are Black Velvet, Chocolate Almond Cake, Truffle Cake, Rocky Mountain Mudslide and Satin Cake.

On the other hand, dessert cakes usually come in small servings, often consumed at home. There is the sansrival, tiramisu, ube macapuno cake, chocolate mallows, chocolate torte, black forest cake and banofie pie.

Sugar-free cakes are perfect for people who love sweets but are on a diet. It can be any type of cake for as long as it does not have any sugar content. These cakes make use of sugar alternatives to produce the same sweet taste of a regular gourmet cake. A good alternative to sugar is maple syrup.

Cheesecakes are made with soft and fresh cheeses. It is a creamy and cheesy flavored dessert made from flour, eggs, sugar and liquids. Each filling is covered with a crust of either pastry or cookie.

Cheesecakes can be a combination of blueberry, chocolate, peanut butter, Irish cream, caramel and fruits. It is a very rich dessert and the good ones have a thick consistency. Next to chocolates, cheesecakes can be considered the next best favorite.

A chiffon cake is a very light dessert. It uses eggs, vegetable oil, flour, baking powder, sugar and flavorings. Its fluffy textures are achieved by beating the eggs until it is stiff and evenly folding onto the batter.

Chiffon cakes do not harden because of its moist characteristics. It has low saturated fat compared to butter cakes. However, this is a very sweet kind of cake containing heaps of calories. But once in a while, one must indulge to taste the delicious mix of chiffon cakes.

A fruit cake is made with dried and candied fruits, nuts and other spices. It involves the basics of baking a cake, while making sure that the fruit selected is the dominant taste. Some of the famous fruit cakes are strawberry shortcakes, mango cakes, apple cakes and blueberry cakes.

Fruit cakes are commonly given out as presents during weddings, Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The traditional recipe of fruitcake is combined with rum or liqueurs. This is normally given out during the yuletide season and it can last for many months without wasting.

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Gordon Ramsays Healthy Appetite US Reviews

Gordon Ramsays Healthy Appetite US Reviews

Heres a list of reviews from amazon.com on Gordon Rsamsay\’s 2008 Healthy Appetite Book.

This was my first celebrity cookbook, so I was skeptical. Contrary to my fears of finding expensive ingredients that can\’t be found, Ramsay\’s recipes struck me as simple… not only in prep time, but also in the number of steps. As a nod to busy moms, the dishes have been timed to come together with minor forethought.

Eye-pleasing colors and an easy-to-ready design enhance the book further; the pages are nearly the thickness of card-stock, resistant to tearing, folding or wrinkling – a handy thing when squinting at a page over a hot stove of bubbling pots. The efficiency theme continues with recipes arranged in meal sections, rather than grouped by ingredient.

The book claims healthy, flavorful recipes… and it delivers just that. We chose three dinner items and a dessert to attempt for our family of six: braised lambs steaks, a side of lentils with green beans, spinach goat cheese soufflé and vanilla pannacota with blueberry sauce. Having never cooked soufflé I was floored when the concoction actually came out golden and delicious; a bakery loaf of French bread rounded out the meal.

My husband enjoyed all the dishes; there was nary a tidbit left on the children\’s plates. One would hardly have guessed the food we\’d consumed was healthy. The verdict: a filling, celebrity meal for six – made at home, with dessert, for under in ingredients.

Another reviewed thought that this cookbook was awesome with lots of flare!,

One of his famous sayings… “what we are cooking the in the F Word kitchen you can make at home”. Is absolutely the truth! “Fresh food simply prepared” is another of his mantras is also true with this book. I have never cooked to any level of this caliber ever! I am so stroked over this book I have purchased his other book “Fast Food”.

This is an unbelievable change for me, from cooking the dish to plating it beautifully. My wife is nothing short of AMAZED!

One person who purchased the book as a gift reported the following – I purchased this book for my sister in law who absolutely LOVES Gordon Ramsay. After she looked through it a good hour, she told me it was wonderful, and had some fantastic recipes. So I can\’t say personally, but as a chef herself, my sis in law knows her food!

An obvious Ramsey fan said of this recipe book – Love Gordon Ramsay – Love his recipes. Easy to follow and delicious. They make me feel like I am a gourmet chef who cares about the quality of my food. I recommend this book to any level of cook/chef. Ramsay\’s simpleness is refreshing. A++.

One reviewer from texas wrote that Gordon Ramsay\’s Healthy Appetite is designed to be very approachable. For Someone that is trying to have a healthier lifestyle, may not have a lot of personal culinary experience, or as a first cookbook, this one is ideal. Chef Ramsay puts simple preparation of quality ingredients and flavors that meld well together at the heart of the culinary experience.

None of the recipes contain ingredients that are so exotic your local market should be without them, or at least a suitable substitute. Also, the ingredients are as such that no one should be afraid to try them. The book is quite stunning. Adorned with beautiful photography that may inspire the recipient to add that extra aesthetic touch!

One easy way to sum up most people\’s thoughts on the book is with one, final and simple review; I am so happy with this cookbook, it has many delightful, and easy recipies that will make your dinner guest think you hired a chef.

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Cool and Easy Summer Recipes

Cool and Easy Summer Recipes

Beat the heat this summer with cool summer recipes. Don’t you look for a drink or cool shake on a hot summer day? Here are some easy recipes that you can prepare in no time. Try them out and serve your family and friends. These refreshing drinks are sure to leave them asking for more.

Frozen Lemonade:

How about a glass of fresh Frozen Lemonade? Your whole family will simply love it.

Ingredients needed:

Sliced lemon – 1 Lemon juice – 1 ¼ cups Cold water – 3 cups Superfine sugar – 1 2/3 cups Ice – 4 cups

You can prepare Frozen Lemonade quite easily and almost in no time. Blend superfine sugar with a thinly sliced lemon in a bowl. Mash the combination with a spoon. Mix cold water and lemon juice in the bowl. Let it stand for 5 minutes. Stir the mixture occasionally. Add ice to the mixture. Pour the juice into glasses.

Passion Potion:

If you want to be healthy and fresh this summer and try out some unique fruit juice recipes Passion Potion is ideal for you.

Ingredients needed:

cubed pineapple – 1 cup cubed peeled ripe mango – 2 cups orange juice, chilled – 1 1/2 cups passion fruit nectar, chilled – 1/2 cup

Place the mango and pineapple cubes into refrigerator. Freeze them for an hour. Remove the cubes from freezer and let them stand for 10 minutes. Combine mango, orange juice and nectar in a blender. Blend the mixture until smooth. Add pineapple to the mixture with the blender on. Process it until smooth. Serve it immediately.

Strawberry-Buttermilk Sherbet:

Strawberry-Buttermilk Sherbet is ideal for those who love to try out unique recipe this summer. You can serve it as dessert or can have it any time you wish.

Ingredients needed:

fresh strawberries – 2  cups vanilla extract – 1  teaspoon buttermilk – 2  cups sugar – 1  cup fresh mint sprigs

Blend the strawberries in food processor for 30 seconds. Then scrape down the slides. Take a large bowl and pour strawberry puree in it. Press it with back of a spoon. Add buttermilk, vanilla and sugar to the puree. Stir well. Pour the mixture in an ice-cream maker and freeze it. Garnish it with fresh mint springs.

Mixed-Berry Shake:

Have your guest appeared without prior notice? Are you looking for some easy and healthy recipes that you can serve immediately? Well, Mixed-Berry Shake will be ideal for you.

Ingredients needed:

whole milk – 2 cups vanilla ice cream – 1 quart unsweetened frozen berries (like strawberries, blueberries and blackberries) – 6 ounces

Blend the berries, milk and half of the ice cream in a blender. Blend the mixture until smooth. Stir the mixture occasionally with a spoon. Mixed-Berry Shake is ready. Pour into glasses.

Triple-Berry Popsicles:

All of us simply love Popsicles. How about preparing a unique Popsicle and surprise your family and friends?

Ingredients needed:

blueberries – 1 cup raspberries – 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries – 1 cup fresh lemon juice – 1/4 cup syrup – 1/3 cup sugar – 2/3 cup

Mix sugar and 1/3 cup water in a saucepan and boil it over high heat. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolves. Combine raspberries, strawberries, blueberries and lemon juice in a blender. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth. Pour 1/3 cup syrup in it. Transfer the mixture to Popsicle molds. Freeze for 4 hours. Finally insert Popsicle sticks and freeze for another 4 – 6 hours.

These cool summer recipes will keep you fresh this summer.

A healthy glycemic dessert can be strawberries, blueberries and cream, which offers the body nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants. Make healthier dessert choices when eating well with information from a health and wellness consultant in this free video on a healthy diet. Expert: Rebecca Robinson Bio: Rebecca Robinson is a health and wellness consultant in the Tampa Bay area.

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Make-Ahead Food Ideas for Memorial Day and 4th of July BBQ Picnics

Make-Ahead Food Ideas for Memorial Day and 4th of July BBQ Picnics

Like many folks on Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends, you might be making plans to go camping, or planning a BBQ, or even going somewhere for a picnic. 

Whatever the event, if you are the one in charge of the meal planning and cooking, if time allows, please try some of my make-ahead food ideas before, so that you can have more time to relax and to enjoy yourself and your family on the actual day of the event!

Just because you are the one in charge of the planning and cooking, it doesn’t mean you have to be busy doing EVERYTHING food-related that day. Consider these make-ahead food ideas:

Make-Ahead Marinated Chicken and Steak 

Adding steak and chicken to the hamburger and hotdog menu is easy.
The prep. time for any of my marinated steak, teriyaki chicken and Thai Chicken recipes is 15 minutes at the most.  For days or weeks before, combine the marinade and meat in a freezer bag and freeze according to the recipe’s directions. Remove from the freezer the day before the event and place in the refrigerator to thaw. For a day ahead, marinate and refrigerate for 24 hours.  When your grill is pre-heated, you will be ready.

Make-Ahead Stuffed Beef Tenderloin

For a special, out-of the-ordinary indulgence, how does a beef tenderloin stuffed with spinach, Swiss cheese, garlic and mushrooms and slow cooked on the rotisserie grill sound?  Although beef tenderloin is very expensive per pound (check out your local wholesale club for the best price) it is definitely worth a once-a-year Memorial Day event! Estimate ½ lb. per person, and a five pound tenderloin will easily feed about 10 people. My stuffed beef tenderloin recipe includes make-ahead instructions for the stuffing, allowing you to make the stuffing a day ahead.

The day you are ready for the grill, rinse the beef under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.  Cut a lengthwise pocket into the side of the beef and fill with the stuffing.  Tie the beef tightly with 5 or 6 separate strings to keep the pocket closed.  Cut off the excess strings if they’re hanging.  Rub the outside of the beef with the minced garlic and season with salt and pepper.  Insert a cooking thermometer in the center in the thickest part of the beef (not the stuffing.)  Grill on a rotisserie (or bake in the oven at 375°F) until the thermometer registers rare in the center.  Do not overcook.  The ends will be more done.  Let the beef rest for 15 minutes before you cut it.  Remove the strings.  Cut into ½ inch slices. Your guests will think you labored over extravagant cooking recipes, while you too are sitting and enjoying this delicacy.

Make-Ahead Cole Slaw and Pasta Salads

My cookbook contains some easy make-ahead cole slaw and broccoli slaw recipes. Whether its broccoli salad, Hawaiian cole slaw, or healthy broccoli slaw, it is simple to make these a day ahead. Make the dressing a day ahead and refrigerate.  Assemble the other ingredients and refrigerate. To avoid a soggy cole slaw, add the dressing and toss your cole slaw right before your BBQ.

My Italian sub and macaroni pasta salad recipes can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, and these will taste delicious the day of the event.

Make-Ahead Desserts

Dessert breads are a great finger-food for a picnic or an after BBQ treat. Many of my easy dessert bread recipes like banana bread, cinnamon bread, blueberry bread or strawberry bread, allow for making ahead and freezing.

After baking two loaves of bread (many of my bread recipes will yield two loaves) wait until they are completely cooled. Next, wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in a vacuum bag to freeze. Take them out of the vacuum sealed bags to thaw, this way the breads are already wrapped and ready for you to serve in about 4 hours.

Kids always go for the cookies, even big (adult-sized) kids! Homemade cookies are simple, make-ahead desserts that are a great finish to any picnic or BBQ.  Making Ahead is easy when you flash freeze your cookie dough. Use the flash freezing method for my cookie recipes and you will have fantastic results.  These cookie recipes include: big ginger cookies; brownie cookies; macadamia nut cookies; oatmeal cookies; peanut butter chocolate chip crackles; peanut butter kiss cookies; snickerdoodles; and everyone’s favorite, chocolate chip cookies. You can find these cookie recipes, as well as, all of the above mentioned recipes and make ahead directions in my Make-ahead Meals for Busy Moms Cookbook.  

The more prep. work you do in advance, the more fun you will have at your BBQ. You want to be in the fresh air and sunshine NOT in your kitchen!

My cookbook contains some easy make-ahead cole slaw and broccoli slaw recipes. Whether its broccoli salad, Hawaiian cole slaw, or healthy broccoli slaw, it is simple to make these a day ahead. Make the dressing a day ahead and refrigerate.  Assemble the other ingredients and refrigerate. To avoid a soggy cole slaw, add the dressing and toss your cole slaw right before your BBQ.

My Italian sub and macaroni pasta salad recipes can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, and these will taste delicious the day of the event.

Make-Ahead Desserts

Dessert breads are a great finger-food for a picnic or an after BBQ treat. Many of my easy dessert bread recipes like banana bread, cinnamon bread, blueberry bread or strawberry bread, allow for making ahead and freezing.

After baking two loaves of bread (many of my bread recipes will yield two loaves) wait until they are completely cooled. Next, wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in a vacuum bag to freeze. Take them out of the vacuum sealed bags to thaw, this way the breads are already wrapped and ready for you to serve in about 4 hours.

Kids always go for the cookies, even big (adult-sized) kids! Homemade cookies are simple, make-ahead desserts that are a great finish to any picnic or BBQ.  Making Ahead is easy when you flash freeze your cookie dough. Use the flash freezing method for my cookie recipes and you will have fantastic results.  These cookie recipes include: big ginger cookies; brownie cookies; macadamia nut cookies; oatmeal cookies; peanut butter chocolate chip crackles; peanut butter kiss cookies; snickerdoodles; and everyone’s favorite, chocolate chip cookies. You can find these cookie recipes, as well as, all of the above mentioned recipes and make ahead directions in my Make-ahead Meals for Busy Moms Cookbook.  

The more prep. work you do in advance, the more fun you will have at your BBQ. You want to be in the fresh air and sunshine NOT in your kitchen!

How To Make A New York Style Cheesecake

How To Make A New York Style Cheesecake

If you would ask my husband what his favorite dessert was, his response would be…a good homemade cheesecake with a cherry or strawberry topping.

This recipe was given to me about 10 years ago by a local Mennonite woman who is well-known in our area for baking delicious homemade cheesecakes. I think you will find this recipe easy to make and it will soon become one of your favorite desserts.

Graham Cracker Crust Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

Melt butter in the microwave on high power for 30-40 seconds. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Once combined, pat the crumb mixture into a buttered 9-inch round spring-form baking pan that is 3-inches deep.

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:

2 1/2 lbs. cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup whipping cream
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
6 large eggs

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour and the vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until its fluffy and creamy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating in between each addition until the mixture is smooth.

Pour the filling mixture into the crumb-lined baking pan. Bake in a preheated 450 degree oven for 10 minutes. Turn down your oven heat to 250 degrees and bake for an additional 1 hour. Remove pan from the oven and cool on a wire rack for 1 1/2 hours, remove from spring-form pan and refrigerate your cheesecake in an airtight container.

Note: If desired, you can top your cheesecake with your favorite pie filling, such as cherry, blueberry or strawberry.

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Treating Hemorrhoids With Horsetail, Blueberries and Ceanothus

Treating Hemorrhoids With Horsetail, Blueberries and Ceanothus

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles or emerods, is a rather common ailment that often affects people who lead a sedentary or inactive life, such as those who work desk jobs and rarely go out for exercise. This is the inflammation or swelling of the veins in the anus and rectum. Actually, the term “hemorrhoids,” if taken in the technical sense, really refers to cushions made of tissue that are filled with blood vessels where the rectum and anus connects. However, the term is loosely used to refer to any varicosities in the anal region.

There are so many possible causes for developing hemorrhoids, and there are as many medications given to treat the problem. However, did you know that you could go all-natural when treating hemorrhoids by trying herbal treatments? Three herbs that you can try for hemorrhoids are horsetail, blueberries and ceanothus.

Why Should You Go For Herbal Treatments?

The reason why you should try herbal treatments when dealing with hemorrhoids – or any other ailment for that matter – is because they are safer and don’t have the side effects associated with regular medicines. In addition, most medicines can usually target only one ailment at a time while herbs can frequently improve your over-all health while dealing with your complaint.

How Do You Use The Herbs?

If you’re having trouble with hemorrhoids, you should try the three herbs mentioned earlier. Horsetail is the term used for a group of branched species (with scientific name Equisetum) which looks like a horse’s tail. It is the only living genus in a plant family made of vascular plants which reproduce not by seeds but by spores.

Horsetail

You can use horsetail to deal with bleeding hemorrhoids by boiling a tablespoon of horsetail in a liter of purified water for five minutes. Drink a cup of the boiled concoction before every meal. If you want, you can stir in some lemon juice to improve the taste. The bleeding should lessen and completely stop within three days.

Blueberries

On the other hand, blueberries are plants that flower and bloom into small round fruits that are sweet when ripe, with a hint of acidity. They are quite effective in treating hemorrhoids, and quite a tasty treat as well. In addition, they are easily available in the market. You can even choose from different variety such as low-bush blueberries, high-bush blueberries, rabbit-eye blueberries or half-high blueberries.

If you’re having trouble with hemorrhoids, eat a cup of fresh blueberries every day for the next two months. If you’re having difficulty finishing it up in one go, you can divide the cup into two or three servings in such a way that you’ll be having fresh blueberries for dessert after every meal. The symptoms should begin to reduce in two months.

Ceanothus

You can also try ceanothus, which is a shrub or small tree usually found in North America. Just boil ten to fifteen ceanothus leaves in a cup of purified water. Strain and drink like a tea every day for seven days. You should notice the hemorrhoids getting smaller within one week.