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Raw food ingredients

Superstars: Carrots

Carrots are awesome - this is what they can do for you: GOOD VISION your body uses the carrots' nutrients to build pigments - essential for clear day and night vision.   CANCER PROTECTION your body uses the carrots' phyto nutrient falcarinol as a protection from cancer, and its beta carotin to produce vitamin A (100ml carrot juice cover your recommended daily intake) which prevents the degeneration of healthy cells and even reverts them back. RECIPE: CARROT-CUMIN WRAPS   GORGEOUS SKIN extra beta-carotin is stored in your skin cells and does not only provide a light tan, but also protects you from the sun with an SPF of up to 4. Important: A few drops of oil let you absorb the nutrients even better. STAYING...

Can you eat raw quince ?

What is a quince?  This bright yellow fruit (Cydonia oblonga) belongs to the same family as apples and pears. It has its origins in South-West Asia, Turkey and Iran but grows on trees all over the world these days. Quince in tropical countries and Asia is soft and juicy and can easily be eaten raw just like apples. In colder climates, such as Europe and North America, quince has a tougher rind and astringent flesh which does not make it toxic but too acidic and bitter to be enjoyed in its raw version. Quince is laden with vitamin A and antioxidant vitamin C which boosts immunity, reduces inflammatory conditions and viral episodes. The fruit is also a great source of copper, potassium, iron and magnesium as well as B...

Why sprouting is good for you and how to sprout seeds at home

So you have seen sprouts in your local supermarket, you have eaten them in your deli sandwich - but have you ever sprouted seeds yourself?  Most likely, you actually have! You might have soaked almonds, flax or chia seeds before - which is exactly the first step of sprouting! There are many more seeds that can be sprouted though and it is very easy and inexpensive to do. Give it a go!  WHY SPROUT? Sprouting is an inexpensive way to add freshness and nutrients to your foods even in the deepest of winter. Did you know that sprouts apparently contain the highest amount of vitamins, minerals and enzymes of any food per unit of calorie? It is not that surprising if you think about it....

Storage – which veggies and fruit go in the fridge and which don’t?

Ever wondered why your fruit and veggies do not last too long, go soggy or grow mould etc before you had a chance to enjoy them? Check out this little list, print it out and stick it onto your fridge as a neat reminder!Hast Du Dich schon mal gewundert, warum Dein Obst und Gemüse nicht zu lange hält, matschig oder schimmelig etc wird bevor Du eine Chance hattest es zu genießen?
Schau Dir mal diese Liste an, druck sie Dir aus und kleb sie Dir auf Deinen Kühlschrank als smarte Erinnerung!

Bananas – not just for 801010 lovers. 24 facts about bananas

24 fakten ueber bananen die du noch nicht kanntest

Bananas became REALLY popular when followers of Douglas Graham’s 801010 Diet advertised themselves to be eating 30 bananas a day, and still have flat bellies! But aside that, bananas are so incredibly versatile – I certainly did not know half of the points made here! Be amazed too: 1. Hair treatment: 2-3 ripe bananas (1 for short, 3 for really long hair). Peel, blend. Massage into hair. Leave for 15 minutes. Rinse, shampoo hair. Your hair should be silky smooth. Add a TBSP of olive oil if you wish. 2. Teeth whitener: Considering bleaching to get pearly whites? Rub banana peel on your teeth instead. Do this for about two minutes twice a day when brushing your teeth and you’ll skip the chemical treatment any time….

Green tea is SO good for you – 16 benefits of green tea

Green tea has so many benefits that the ones listed below certainly do not cover everything.
But just to get an idea of how powerful these little leaves are, have a quick readGrüner Tee hat so viele Vorteile, dass die nachstehende Liste sicherlich nicht alles abdeckt.
Aber nur um eine Idee zu bekommen, wie mächtig diese kleinen Blätter sind, lies Dir das mal schnell durch:

Irish Moss

irish moss

Irish moss is a kind of seaweed that grows on the Atlantic coast along Europe and America as well as in some parts of the Pacific. It can be light yellow-green to reddish-brown in colour and its jelly-like consistency when mixed with water and/or boiled has been used in the the foods and cosmetics industry for decades: In puddings, yogurt recipes, cakes and tartes, mousse and savoury or sweet creams, Irish moss is used as a smooth binder or jelly instead of (or in addition to) agar-agar, gelatine, pectin, lecithin, starch or tapioca. It can also replace oils to an extent in terms of holding a smooth and creamy slice recipe or cake filling together while reducing the amount of fat used. In skin creams, and hair products, it…

Maca

Like Lucuma, the root vegetable Maca is also from Peru and is considered as “Peruvian ginseng” by some because of its potential to tremendously increase energy, stamina and libido while reducing stress. Benefits of Maca Maca is rich in magnesium and calcium. It also has a balancing effect on hormones (estrogen, progesterone and testosterone), it nourishes the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus and has a positive effect on PMS, menstrual disorders, menopause and all that is associated with fertility and reproduction. To benefit from its effects you need to use it regularly over a longer period of time – but then, 1 teaspoon per day will be enough. How to use Maca Maca is mostly sold as a powder (in its raw form, it looks…

Kelp Noodles

Kelp noodles are a sea vegetable turned into noodle shape. They look similar to Chinese glass noodles. What are the benefits of kelp? They have all the health-benefiting properties of sea vegetables like iodine and trace minerals and they are low in carbohydrates and calories, fat-free and gluten-free. Their neutral taste allows for many different uses like salads, pasta, soups or casseroles. To use, simply rinse and add the noodles to the dish you are preparing.

Coconut, coconut butter, coconut jelly, coconut water, coconut oil

The coconut palm, Cocos nucifera, is a member of the Arecaceae (palm family). The coconut is the fruit of the palm tree and actually a drupe. The name "Coco" comes from Portuguese and Spanish and means "grinning face" because the 3 small holes in the coconut shell look similar to the human face. Young coconuts have a green, smooth skin and contain coconut jelly and coconut water. Mature coconuts have a brown, fibrous skin and contain an oily, white coconut meat and coconut milk.   What are the benefits of coconuts? Coconuts are rich in vitamin B, C and E, coenzyme Q10, lecithin, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and iron.   What is Coconut Butter: Coconut butter is the fat of the coconut and has numerous health...

Raw Cacao

Chocolate in its original form. The cacao tree (Theobroma cacao, literally: food of the gods) and its fruit were considered sacred food in the culture of the Maya and Aztecs and in Mexico, cacao beans were used as currency until the early 20th Century.   Why is raw cacao healthy? Raw cacao is an excellent source of antioxidants (flavonoids) and magnesium (for muscle relaxation, heart and brain). It is also rich in mood-lifting chemicals (by increasing the serotonin levels and releasing endorphins), and it can have a libido-enhancing effect (neurotransmitter anandamide, dopamine, phenylethylamine - PEA and serotonin). Cacao contains monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which slows the breakdown of neurotransmitters in the blood. The advantage of raw chocolate compared to conventional milk chocolates is that no...

Ginger

Ginger ist a root from South East Asia and over 80 varieties of it exist. In Asia, ginger is known and used for its antibiotic and immune-stimulating effects. Ginger eases stomach and digestive problems and helps with motion sickness (have it as a tea, cookie or dried). The benefits of ginger root: Ginger (Zingiber Officinale)  is one of my most favourite flavours and has immense powers. It improves blood circulation and relaxes the muscles. It also has a warming, antiseptic and cleansing effect and helps with colds and rheumatism, constipation, water retention and high cholesterol, muscle tension, even with period pains, migraines and headaches. Ginger is rich in vitamin B6, and can relief pregnant women of morning sickness. Last but not least, ginger has been effective…

Apricots

      Apricot (Prunus armenaica) are originally from China and came via Armenia (hence the Latin name) to Europe. At the end of the 18th century the first apricot trees were brought to North America and have since then been mostly grown in California. Apricots are rich in fiber, potassium, vitamin A, C and E, copper and iron. The color of the apricot (and also the carrot) is created by beta-carotene which is a precursor of vitamin A (provitamin A) and acts as a cell protection from the inside. This can become visible through a slightly tanned complexion after consuming large amounts. Apricots are also rich in calcium and magnesium, and keep the body´s minerals in balance.  They are good for digestion and can…

10 ways to use Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar, or often just ACV is vinegar from cider apples, rich in enzymes, calcium and potassium. Apple cider vinegar improves digestion through the probiotic bacteria that is created during fermentation; it lowers cholesterol and helps with insulin problems. Furthermore ACV is good for: Skin conditions like acne, age spots, sun burn or cellulite Bad Breath and Body Odour Weight Loss, improves metabolism and acetic acid may help prevent fat to build up Diabetes - HDL will rise while triglycerides will be reduced High blood pressure Sore throat and sinus infections, it also strengthens the whole immune system Protection against food poisoning, helps with constipation as well as diarrhoea Allergies Stamina and muscle recovery after exercise Arthritis and gout yeast infections, urinary tract infections and...

Garlic, how to open it & its benefits

Garlic belongs to the lily family and is related to the onion. In southern Italy and France it can be found growing wild, otherwise it is often imported from Eastern Europe and China.   The benefits of garlic: Garlic is rich in iron, vitamin C, zinc, fiber and healthy sulfur compounds. Garlic can lower cholesterol and prevent infections, fight viruses, bacteria and fungi; it stimulates the blood circulation and has a blood thinning effect. Like onion, it helps in detoxification, getting rid of toxins and waste material. Stored in a dark, cool and dry place, garlic should keep for months.   How to peel garlic:

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera belongs to the family of succulents which contains over 500 species. Usually, it has no or just a very short trunk. It grows up to 60 - 100cm tall, with fleshy, green to green-grey (some varieties white speckled) leaves. Aloe Vera is a plant whose self-healing, antibacterial and antiviral properties transfer on to people who consume it: if you cut off a leaf, the plant seals the cut within a few hours and kills any bacteria that is trying to get into the wound. Internally, you will benefit most from aloe if you consume the gel that is found inside each leaf. If you eat it directly, it will have a slightly bitter taste. If it is mixed into a smoothie, you will notice pretty much...

Pineapple

Pineapple (Ananas Comosus) varieties come in different sizes, but they have all a tough, inedible skin which changes color from green to golden brown when ripening. The fruit itself grows out of the flower of the plant! Pineapple also does not grow on trees but instead close to the ground. The benefits of pineapple: Pineapple reduces blood clotting and may help to remove plaque from artery walls. Pineapple is rich in potassium and vitamin C and also very rich in enzymes. Enzymes are helpful in digestion and detoxification, can also have a pineapple skin-firming effect. Bromelain: This enzyme bromelain or bromelain is used in modern medicine due to its anti-inflammatory effect after surgery, it reduces swelling and promotes digestion.

Algae and Seaweeds

  Various blue-green algae and seaweeds which usually grow in rather cold regions of the Atlantic and Pacific. Biologically speaking, blue-green algae belong to the group of prokaryotae – animals, fungi, plants and protozoa. Alkaline and rich in minerals: iron, potassium, iodine and manganese, but also rich in salt. Moreover, these days, everything that comes out of the sea is likely to be contaminated by mercury and other heavy metals to some extent. Most seaweeds from an organic business will be sundried, however some companies do not state how the product was processed and most Nori Sheets (for sushi rolls) are roasted – check the label or ask the producer. Many varieties are also available as powder or tablets. Varieties: chlorella, dulse, Irish moss, kelp,…

The benefits of dates

Dates are drupes (stone fruit) from the area around the Persian Gulf. In ancient times they were brought from Mesopotamia to Egypt and then cultivated there. Later they came via North Africa to Spain – and form there in 1765 to America and California. Dates are rich in fiber and thus support the digestive system. They are good for lowering cholesterol and have a high iron content useful in anemia. Dates are also rich in potassium which helps maintain a healthy nervous system. Dates are also a good source of selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant that supports the function of the thyroid and the immune system. Other nutrients in dates: vitamin A, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine,riboflavin and niacin. Dates have a warming effect and can…

Broccoli

Broccoli (Brassica Oleacea) origins from the Mediterranean and Asia Minor and came to Italy in the 18th Century. Within the next few centuries, it was introduced to northern Europe. Broccoli is related to both cabbage and cauliflower and used to be called Italian asparagus. In Italian, “Brocco” means arm or branch. Broccoli is a spectacular plant, full of nutrients, potassium, vitamin A, C and E, folic acid, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, beta-carotene and fiber. Another component in broccoli is sulforaphane, which activates a cell-protective protein in the body, it also helps with the development of enzymes that protect blood vessels (which in turn helps diabetics as they have a five times higher risk for cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction or stroke)ö and it can even…

Alfalfa

Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa) belongs to the pea family and is thus a legume. It can be grown around the world and throughout the year, nearly independent of temperature or climate, and it requires only 7 days until it is ready for harvest.  The benefits of Alfalfa: The tiny sprouts are the only plant that contain not only all the essential fatty acids but also all vitamins – even B12. They are also rich in minerals (potassium, calcium, iron and zinc), micronutrients, beta-carotenes, folic acid, chlorophyll, phyto-estrogene, antioxidants and fiber. Not only do they taste delicious in a salad or a sandwich but they help also happens to benefit many things, including blood pressure, urinary tract infections, kidney, bladder or prostate problems, arthritis and cholesterol. Regular…

Everything about Chia Seeds

Everything about chia seeds
Chia is part of the Mint family (Salvia hispanica), originates from Central America (Mexico) and is one of the super foods of nature - rich in essential fatty acids omega 3 to 6 with a ratio of 3:2, protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, Chia seeds are a valuable part of holistic nutrition. Omega 3 converts to DHA and EPA fatty acids, the same fatty acids found in cod liver oil / fish oil.   Why are Omega 3 essential fatty acids important for your health? Essential fatty acids are essential because they help muscles recover after exercise, they boost the metabolism, thus helping to burn fat and lose weight. They also support a healthy heart rhythm, relaxed nerves, strong memory and mental clarity. The fiber...

Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in vitamin C which can help the formation of collagen and maintaining healthy capillaries and also promotes iron absorption. They are high in fibre which helps digestion, control of cholesterol and also keeps the heart healthy. In addition, they are a great source of manganese which is important for bone development and the conversion of proteins, carbs and fats into energy. And lastly, blueberries are leading when it comes to antioxidant activity. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals (which are linked to development of cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s). The major contributors to antioxidant activity in blueberries are polyphenols, specifically anthocyanins in the skin and meat which give the berries their beautiful blue colour.

Avocado

An oval, green to black-skinned fruit roughly the size and shape of a pear. Avocados contain hard, green flesh around a single stone.   Avocados will ripen when left at room temperature and are ready to eat when they yield slightly to gentle pressure. The flesh will then have a buttery texture with a slightly nutty flavour which is neutral enough to keep the avocado versatile for both sweet and savoury dishes. Avocados can be eaten alone, used in salads or as a spread, pureed for smoothies and even ice cream. They can help with dysentery, high blood pressure and abdominal pains. Rich in vitamins B3, C, E, K, Potassium (60% more than bananas), and mono-unsaturated fats. Just be aware that 2 Avocados provide 110% of…

Apples

Originating in West Asia, there are over 7500 known cultivares; Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, Fuji, MacIntosh, Breaburn, Gala are among the most common ones. Research has shown that apples can reduce the risk of colon cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer; they can help with weight loss, heart disease and cholesterol issues. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamin A, potassium and a good source of dietary fibre.   Raw food recipes with apples: Apple Crumble with Vanilla Sauce Apple Pie Smoothie Apple Vinegar Uses A recipe with only 5 ingredients (yes, one is apple) Grawnola with Cinnamon and Apple Veggie Juice with Apple Sweetness