Miso-Soup

Dec 07,2006 at superdeluxe Roppongi www.myspace.com/1misosoup



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQxz7Y50jKo&hl=en

Top 5 Qi Improvement Ingredients in Chinese Herbal Soup & Free Recipe

In Chinese medication books, there are 1000 types of herb to look for, however there are way too many herbs with different features and nature, so it is not advisable that you simply mix and match with Chinese herbs. At least you need to understand the nature and behavior before mixing them around in soup.

The top 5 Chinese Herbal Soup ingredient for Qi improvement are:

1. Wild Ginseng
Ginseng is beneficial to all internal organs, it stimulates physical vigor, soothes temperament, promotes general well-being and longevity. It is the "Yang" type of herb according Chinese medication reference book. The older the age of this wild ginseng, the better and higher level of minerals and nutrition.

2. American Wild Ginseng
Stimulates energy and nourishes the lungs and spleen. It is beneficial to those who suffer from mental and heart weakness, cough, fatigue and menopause. America Wild Ginseng is sometimes very good in having it anytime in the day, usually it is best to drink in the morning or before bed.

3. Radix Codonopsis Pilosulae (Dangshen)
Reinforce Qi, invigorates and improves blood circulation. It is also effective in the treatment of fatigue and pale complexion. It is the most commonly used in Chinese herb soup making as the ingredients.

4. Chinese Yam
Tastes sweet and is neutral in nature. It nourishes the lungs and kidneys, strengthens the spleen, stop diarrhea, improves vitality and restores Qi. Since it serve more healthier in cleaning up the body.

5. Walnut
Walnut improves Qi and regulates blood circulation. It is also known as "longevity fruit". Other than this, it also help in improving our memory power and healthier.

A Qi improvement Chinese Herbal Soup recipe: Chinese Yam with Pork Spare Ribs Soup

Ingredients:
1. Pork Spare Ribs 750 gram
2. Chinese Yam 500 gram
3. Soup Stock 1000 gram
4. Salt 8 gram
5. Some Ginger slices
6. Water 2 liter
7. Some White Pepper powder

Steps:
1. Soak port spare ribs in cold water and boil it until water is boiling. Pick it up and set aside to let it cool down.
2. Skinned Chinese yam, cut into slices and soak into salt water to avoid it gets oxidation.
3. Put port spare ribs, soup stock, hot water, ginger slice into pot and cook until half done.
4. Add in Chinese yam, continue boil it with big fire heating until boiled, then change to small fire heating continue for 40 minutes.
5. Add in a dash of salt and some white pepper powder before serve.

Enjoy~

Recipe For Delicious Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup and It's Diabetic Friendly Too!

Soup is good for soul no matter the weather. But during this current deep freeze we are in, it seems even more appropriate. Personally, I am sure I could live just on soup while I know others may not agree that soup is that great. So whether you want a cup of soup with a salad or sandwich or a huge bowl like I do, here is a great recipe for you to try. For those like me, who like a lot of vegetables, broccoli is prominent in this soup. For diabetics, meat eaters, etc, you also have chicken. And cheese is a universally loved ingredient. So you have the perfect makings for a yummy cup or bowl of soup. Give it a try soon!

CHICKEN BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP

1 1/2 lbs fresh broccoli

1 small can chicken breast meat, drained

2 1/2 cups water

1 pint half & half cream

1 lb Velveeta-type cheese

3/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 cup cornstarch mixed with 1 cup water

Wash broccoli and steam until crisp tender. While broccoli steams, place the half & half and the water in the top of a double boiler. Add the cheese, salt and pepper. Stir the mixture with a whisk while cooking until all the cheese is melted; add the cubed or shredded chicken. Chop the steamed broccoli and add to the cheese mixture. Stir the cornstarch water to blend well; add to the soup mixture, stirring constantly. Heat over simmering water until the soup reaches the desired thickness. Serve with a sandwich, salad, or fresh fruit.

Enjoy!

10 Reasons to Switch to a Vegan Diet

1. Do it for the Environment

It takes far less energy and resources from the planet to farm plants than it does animals. Gary Null points out that "the breeding and slaughter of animals, and the subsequent processing and packaging of the meat, requires an inordinate amount of land, water, energy, and raw materials." In addition the production of meat generates way more greenhouse gas emissions than the growth of plant based food. In our current culture when caring for the environment has become a moral obligation rather than a choice, going vegan is another thing we can do to help our beautiful planet earth.

2. Vegan Diets are Cholesterol Free

The only foods that contain cholesterol are animal products. Cut out dairy, eggs, cheese and meat and you will completely eliminate the cholesterol in your diet. Add cholesterol-lowering legumes such as kidney beans and chickpeas and you will never have to worry about your triglyceride and LDL levels again.

3. Reduce the Amount of Hormones and Chemicals You Ingest

Treating animals with hormones to speed growth and increase productivity is a widely accepted practice within the meat and meat by-product industries. Hormone residues in meat and meat products can disrupt the hormonal balance for many humans. Take for example a common growth hormone called estradiol, the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Veterinary Measures Relating to Public Health has raised evidence that suggests this hormone is a carcinogen that exerts both tumor initiating and promoting effects.

4. A Healthy Vegan Diet is a Low-Fat Diet

A vegan diet is naturally low in fat. One hundred grams of mature boiled chickpeas contains only 2.6 grams of fat of which only 0.27 gram is saturated. Of course the 7.6 grams of dietary fiber in that same serving of chickpeas will quickly carry that out of your system. Tofu contains only 4 g of fat per 100 g. Compare that with cheddar cheese which contains 15 g of fat per 100 g - more than four times the amount.

5. A Vegan Diet is High in Fiber

By its very nature a vegan diet is high in fiber. Animal products have absolutely no fiber. Legumes on the other hand are one of the most fiber rich plant source foods on the planet. Pair the legumes with lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and you are well on your way to the 25-35 g of fiber recommended daily. (The average North American consumes only 10 g of fiber per day).

6. Vegans Eat a Wide Variety of Protein Sources

As a holistic lifestyle and nutrition coach I often ask my clients, "What are your protein sources?" The answer is simple: chicken. Day after day, night after night. My vegan clients on the other hand choose a wide variety of protein sources from legumes and nuts to tempeh and hemp.

7. Vegans are Healthier

The American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada found vegetarians have lower body mass indices than non-vegetarians, as well as lower rates of death from ischemic heart disease; vegetarians also show lower blood cholesterol levels; lower blood pressure; and lower rates of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and prostate and colon cancer. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported high fruit and vegetable consumption is associated with a reduced risk for cardiovascular disease, several common cancers, and other chronic diseases (such as macular degeneration and cataracts).

8. It is possible to get B12 and Iron from a Vegan Diet

There is a myth that because vegans do not consume fish, milk and milk products, eggs, red meat, and poultry they could not possibly be getting enough of iron or B12 without supplements. Many people do not realize that B12 is naturally available in miso and nutritional yeast. Iron on the other hand occurs naturally in spinach, legumes and pumpkin seeds.

9. A vegan diet is an Alkaline Forming

An acidic environment in the body keeps the body from achieving optimal health. Over consumption of acid forming foods including meat, dairy, refined grains, and sugars leads to obesity, fatigue, kidney stones, viruses, bacterial infections, cancer and fatigue. Consuming an alkaline forming diet including plenty of chlorophyll-rich vegetables creates an environment for health in the body.

10. Do it for the Animals

Concern for the ethical treatment of animals is a powerful reason to eat a vegan diet. Many animals are kept and transported in abysmal crowded conditions and slaughtered inhumanely. Compassionate living is synonymous with a vegan diet.

Tegomass - Miso Soup Intro

Tegomass in Taipei Arena 07 : ) taken by me



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EoYQsmjJmc&hl=en

Kelp - The Miracle Plant

When we think about the different types of plants that are out there, often times, we do not even realize all of the healing qualities that these various plants have. For instance, did you know that the Aloe plant has a variety of uses other than just being aesthetically pleasing? For instance, you can use it as a house plant; you can use it to moisturize your skin; you can use it to heal cuts or wounds; you can use it to soothe sun burn and you can also use it as a laxative!

The next time you go to the grocery store or to your local Lowes and/or Home Depot, make sure that you check out the plant section. Pay special attention to all of the various names and varieties of plant life that is there. If you're curious enough, when you get back to your home, look up the various plants on the Internet. Most plants serve dual purposes other than just being a decoration in your home. Another great example of this is Rosemary. Rosemary is a neat little shrub-looking plant that can be utilized as a houseplant. It gives off a distinct and welcoming odor that smells great. It can also, however, be used to season food. Kelp is another great plant that serves different purposes.

Kelp, or seaweed, is a marine plant, a type of brown algae, that is often used in a variety of Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi and miso soup. It has won the name of "miracle plant" because of its tremendous therapeutic properties and high nutrient content.

Kelp is extremely rich in ocean minerals such as selenium and iodine which can help to boost the immune system. It is also flooded with tons of other vitamins and minerals including Vitamin A, Calcium, Iron, Niacin, and phosphorus. Additionally, kelp is a great source of protein. It has an amazing and ever growing list of health benefits. And this marine plant has been widely used to help regulate thyroid conditions, helps to prevent heart disease and cancer, can boost development of the brain, assist in preventing osteoporosis, and can treat mineral deficiencies. Kelp dissolves fat tissues which aids with weight loss, alleviates arthritis pain, improves the functions of the liver and digestive system, and lowers cholesterol. It has even been shown to help reduce hair loss, stabilize hormonal balance, and benefit those suffering from impotence and anemia. Some research also suggests that kelp can suppress AIDS and kill the herpes virus.

With this amazing list of benefits, which seems to be constantly growing with more research, it is easy to see just why kelp is called the "miracle plant". But how do you get enough kelp to reap these rewards? As mentioned before, kelp can be used in cooking; however, if you do not care for the taste of seaweed, there are many kelp supplements available at an affordable price from your local store, making kelp very easy to take. It is important to note that if you are already taking iodine supplements or thyroid medication you should consult a physician before taking kelp supplements.

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli

This soup makes you happy to be alive!

Pasta e Fagioli

Did you know that Pasta e Fagioli...is a Life-Changing food? Well, it is in our home, and it can be in yours too!. Ever since I have been young, this soup has always come to the rescue to make everything "better."

There is no need to go to a restaurant for this Italian favorite, you don't need a pasta maker, or any fancy pots and pans...all you do need is about 15 minutes of your time, and a few simple ingredients. And...from this, you will get what our family calls Italian Comfort Food.

The Story's in the soup! It's A Family Affair

When my children were little, and they wanted comfort food, Pasta e Fagioli fit the bill! When my husband Jake came home from the hospital, I asked him what he wanted to eat...you guessed it...that magic soup. He ate it every day for a week, and after that week, he was so much better. The doctor said he passed all the tests with no after affects from his sickness. Now, I'm not saying that this soup cured my husband, but I do know that this Italian comfort food helped him get through some pretty tough times.

When I was at my mother's house the other day, she said she forgot how to make pasta e fagioli , she is 90, and says that her memory is not as good as it used to be. I wrote the recipe out for her, and said "mommy, this is your recipe, and I am returning it to you". She smiled, and so did I.

So many people, after coming to our home for dinner, or lunch, have asked for this recipe also. How can such a simple soup, with such simple ingredients, makes such a heartwarming meal?

When we make our soup over the holidays, we usually serve it with an antipasto. When we are at my sister Lynda's for our family get togethers we always make an antipasto, because there is always time for soup and antipasto.

Italian "Comfort Food" - Comfort Food That You Can Serve To Your Best Friends

When Betty, one of my best friends, was told she had stage 4 cancer, she came over to visit and she asked if I would put Italian music on the CD player, and make her a dish of Pasta e Fagioli! That was comfort food for her also. Betty has since passed away, but I will always treasure the memory of the two of us sitting at the kitchen table, Italian music playing, eating our favorite food for the last time.

My Recipe of Pasta e Fagioli For You Eat This, It Will Make You Feel Better!

Now, I want to give you my recipe for this wonderful soup, so if you choose, you will make it for your family and see if it really is Life-Changing. There are many recipes, each person has their own and their favorite. This is ours!

Pasta e Fagioli
1 onion chopped
2-3 stalks of celery chopped
2-3 cloves of garlic chopped
Salt and Pepper to taste
8 oz can of tomato sause
Ditalini (You can use elbow macaronni if you can't find ditalini)

Saute onions, glarlic and celery in olive oil until soft. Then add 2 cans of Navy Beans or Cannellini Beans (White Kidney Beans) Your choice. I use both depending on which I have in the pantry.

After adding beans, add one small can of tomato sauce. When I am making this soup, i always fill up the empty cans from the beans and the sause two times in each can with water. This usually gives me enough water for the soup. But, if you want to make more, you can just add more water. My daughter Debra uses canned chicken broth instead of water, but I never do. This is the way Aunt Carrie and my mother always made it, and that's what I do too. You can add salt and pepper to taste at this time also, and if you choose, a little bit of hot sause. That is the way my family likes it, but do what is best for yours. While this is cooking on medium burner, boil some water for the ditalini. I usually use ½ a box, but if you think you would like more pasta for your soup, use the whole box. Cook according to directions on the box. Let soup cook for about ½ an hour, if you have the time, if you don't 15 minutes will be fine also. This soup is very easy and comes out great no matter how long it does cook, it is very forgiving. When you are ready to eat, just put some of the pasta in the bowl, add the liquid, and sprinkle with grated cheese. If you are making it to serve right away, then you can put the ditalini in the soup, but if you are going to serve later in the day, don't add the pasta to the soup as it will "drink" up all of the juice. Now ENJOY, and I hope your family will love it as much as mine does!

Yumm-Oh A dish of pasta e fagioli, a glass of my brother in laws home made wine, a few pieces of Italian bread...what a lunch that is.

Kabocha-Eating Cat

Becka the cat is not like everybody else. She likes miso soup, lentils, seaweed and kabocha squash. When she gets started, she "goes to town."



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7wHXoHHdkg&hl=en

Ten Course Japanese Dinner

In this video, I Introduce and taste many kinds of Japanese foods all in one sitting. Which dish looks the most appetizing or grotesque to you?



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpcAd-ZYe-g&hl=en

webisode_shojin Ryori_v1.wmv

Japanese Zen Cuisine



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji1nm-UQUhk&hl=en

[MV] Park Jung Eun - Like Miso Soup

MSN + meteorstorm1642.wordpress.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Wsze7jp6dc&hl=en

Recipes for a Macrobiotic Diet : How to Serve Miso Soup as a Macrobiotic Meal

Lean how to serve miso soup for a macrobiotic meal in this free online video on how to prepare healthy macrobiotic food recipes. Expert: Gayle Stolove Contact: www.whollymacrobiotics.com Bio: Gayle Stolove has been professionally involved in both health care, and the natural foods industry, since approximately 1975. Filmmaker: Paul Muller



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs5z6of7GEw&hl=en

Organic Miso Soup

Organic Miso Soup Amateur Deaf Chef Chad A. Ludwig January 22, 2010



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tG86wBFV5_M&hl=en

hanayo misosoup

hanayo & merzbow gift geist DHR ukawa naohiro



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fS-WPFpc8nM&hl=en

Josiah makes miso handroll

Josiah makes a special handroll with miso soup....



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRO343Xoi4g&hl=en

Lessons in Making Sushi

This week I prepared a dinner for some great friends (hosts) and a group of British soccer players. These guys were in Monterey for a week to coach a junior soccer camp, as designed by UK comany www.challengersports.com Sushi ingredients used: Yellowfin Ahi tuna (fresh from the Monterey Bay) Smoked wild caught Alaskan salmon Tempura shrimp (tj's) Organic cucumbers Avocado Fried egg Light cream cheese Soy 'tofutti' imitation cream cheese Nishiki brown rice Seasoned rice vinegar Roasted nori seaweed Lemon zest Wasabi Wasabi mayonnaise Soy sauce Also, paired with miso soup and vegetable gyoza (tj's). Miso soup: Red miso paste Silken tofu Wakame Shittake mushrooms



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7tEfXPida8&hl=en

how to accomplish miso soup allotment 1

ingredients: green onions mushroom tofu(optional) soy bean paste but anyways all of these are optional except for the soy bean paste haha



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Itb3OvmtMOg&hl=en

Colon Cleanse

Our body needs to be maintained healthy by regular bowel movements. At least one bowel movement in a day will help prevent diseases. However, with the unhealthful diet of eating food made of white flour, antibiotics-filled meats, white flour and many others, our bodies become more prone to acquiring diseases and worse, colon cancer. One good way of removing all these toxins and congestion is through colon cleanse. It is beneficial not only for your health, but also for your well-being as a whole.

You may not be aware that there may be 5 lbs. up to 40 lbs. of fecal matter stuck in your colon. The main cause of this accumulation is that your colon may not be able to effectively process these junk foods. If this will not be flushed out through a colon cleanse and will be allowed to sit in longer, then this may become toxic to your body and may lead to chronic symptoms such as:

* Back Aches

* Bad Breath

* Bloating

* Body Odor

* Bowel / Colon Cancer

* Constipation

* Fatigue

* Depression

* Poor Appetite

* Weak Immune System

* Weight Loss / Weight Gain

There are many ways to reduce the risks of having a poor colon and avoid harboring serious diseases. The best colon cleanse to consider is the natural colon cleanse. Other methods may involve you taking supplements and chemicals, or even undergo medical procedures. Natural colon cleanse simply requires you to change your diet. Increase your quantity intake of fresh fruit and vegetables. Fiber-rich cereals and bran are also helpful in making sure that your colon functions correctly to flush out the compacted matter. Don't forget the most basic of all, drinking lots of water. Here are other simple things to remember when doing such natural cleanse:

* Avoid using dairy products.

* Cut in half the amount of meat you consume.

* Eat whole grain cereal with Soya milk for your breakfast.

* For snack, eat at least 2 hours before retiring. Eat light. You may have a non-creamed soup, fruit or vegetable salad with a non-fat dressing.

Having a homemade colon cleanse is another great way to stay healthy. You may choose from a wide variety of homemade recipes. Organic blended juices and herbal mixtures are the most popular. Take note of the following ingredients you should add in to make your homemade cleanse more effective:

* Fruit and Vegetable Juice or water fast - radishes, beets, celery, parsley, ginger, garlic, cayenne, kale, wheat grass, etc.

* Psyllium Husk Seeds or Flax Seeds or other herbs - flax seeds or flax seed oil, cayenne pepper, ginger, aloe leaf, senna, etc

* Bentonite Clay - As the name suggests - it's just clay that has been used by natives and Indians then as a detoxifier.

* Probiotics - yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, and some juices and soy drinks

If you want to try an affordable product to help treat waste build up in your colon, then Super Colon Cleanse is one good choice. Apart from providing a healthy balance in the intestines, it also helps you shed unwanted pounds. Furthermore, the product helps restore energy and vitality. The only downside is that this is not recommended for children and young adults because of Senna and Buckthorn Root. Also, there has been no approved therapeutic claim about the product since it serves as a mere supplement. Here are its main ingredients that makes it literally "super".

* Psyllium Husk Powder - It is a fiber that helps the food in your intestines be formed in a mass and be flushed out from the body.

* Senna - This is a plant that increases the regularity for stool.

* Fennel Seed - It is rich in vitamins and helps your body to digest well.

* Peppermint - This has many benefits. Any excess fats and waste are effectively broken down plus it also helps the stomach calm during constipation or any illness.

* Papaya - This fruit is a digestive aid that effectively breaks down the food that you intake.

* Rose Hips - This is another digestive aid that helps soothe the body.

* Buckthorn Bark - This supports the digestive system muscles to help them function properly.

* Celery - There are many necessary nutrients in celery that are good antioxidants.

* Milk-Free Acidophilus - This dairy-free product help replenish the good bacteria in your body.

In choosing the right colon cleanse product, it is best to look for and read over colon cleanse reviews to further compare the advantages and disadvantages of available products.

There are four criteria in making sure that the product of your choice is good:

1. Money Back Guarantee - There are many colon cleanse products that promise a money back guarantee. If a company lives up to its promises then it is likely that the product they produce does actually work.

2. The Product Cost - Quality and high cost does not necessarily go hand in hand. You can still find good colon cleanse products that are equally effective as those expensive ones without compromising your budget.

3. Customer Review - Feedbacks from consumers are great evidences of a quality product.

4. Effectiveness and Safety - There are many companies that label ingredients on the package of the colon cleanse product but include only a portion of the claimed amount. This then will compromise the colon cleanse benefits of the product.

There are many different colon cleanse products in the market to choose from. The easiest way is to do it online. However, finding an authentic and of high quality colon cleanse product may be a bit tricky. Here is a good site to visit - http://www.botanicliving.com.

Eating Miso Soup

Jeron Food



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyH_pRpQP6g&hl=en

Hanging Out At Lin-T's Crib

Just Me and My Cheese Lin-T Hanging Out For Her B-Day



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4KXRoKHvR4&hl=en

"Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook" - Innovative, Healthy, & Delicious Recipes From Plant-Based Ingredients

Joe Stepaniak's "Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook" was among the first cookbooks I bought after deciding to adopt a vegan diet 3 years ago. For those not familiar with the term "uncheese",  Stepaniak uses it to describe rich-tasting spreads, dips, sauces and blocks produced with dairy-free whole foods (primarily beans, nuts, or grains).

Cheese lovers be forewarned: you may be in for some disappointment if you're expecting tofu to taste like Feta cheese or chickpeas like Havarti. The book's introduction even acknowledges that "uncheeses are not going to be like dairy cheeses, so please adjust your expectations accordingly. "

Unfortunately I skipped Stepaniak's well-intentioned introduction and plowed in to the recipes, attempting Tofu Ricotta, Chick Cheez, Swizz Cheez, Buffalo Mostarella, Brie, Betta Feta, White Bean Boursin, Monterey Jack and Port Wine uncheeses. And while all were tasty (my favorite is the sharp Chick Cheez spread--made from Garbanzo Beans) they left me somewhat disillusioned and wondering whether I could actually live without real cheese.

As a result of not immediately finding perfect non-dairy replacements for my most beloved cheeses, "The Uncheese Cookbook" sat dormant on my shelf for some time. Little did I realize that I would come back to Stepaniak's book later (many times), finding it had improved with age.  Its most valuable lesson is that it introduces unfamiliar ingredients, and uses them as well as more commonplace items--including raw nuts--in groundbreaking fashion.

For example, I had never heard of nutritional yeast, an ingredient employed in many of the book's recipes. Nutritional yeast is a rich source of vitamins and minerals that has a pungent cheesy taste, too. I later learned that Stepaniak is somewhat of an aficionado on the subject of nutritional yeast, having authored "The Nutritional Yeast Cookbook."

Among other new ingredients (and somewhat challenging to obtain) were agar and kuzu (both plant-based thickening agents used in place of gelatin), and umeboshi plum paste, used for adding saltiness. Chickpea flour (a.k.a. Chana Besan) while common in Indian cuisine, is also employed in many uncheese dishes.

The introduction to Uncheese Cookbook provides a detailed and useful reference to all the aforementioned ingredients as well as others. It also contains a well-documented background of how the dairy industry has influenced the evolution of the American diet (echoing T. Scott Campbell's "The China Study"), and provides detailed nutritional data on the benefits of  non-dairy sources of calcium, protein, fat, and carbohydrates vs. dairy products.

Moving on to the recipes, I found many of the "Uncheese Dishes" to be superb. Among my favorites are:

Chocolate Almond Cheeze Cake (p170*) with Granola Nut Crust--Everyone who's tasted it are astounded it tastes more delicious than real cheesecake, without using eggs or dairy products (maple syrup is the secret).
"Besto Pesto" (which imperceptibly substitutes cheese with miso)--How can a vegan diet be considered sacrifice when you can still enjoy a dish of linguine with Genevose pesto sauce?
Chickpea Flour Pizza (p128), eaten alongside vegetable curries--It takes all of about 5 minutes to prepare, so it's very convenient, too!
Beannaise (p150)--Used as mayonnaise substitute within other recipes, and also by itself, as a dip for vegetables or salad dressing.
*Note: page numbers refer to the 10th edition of the book.

Other recipes I would recommend include: Parmezano Sprinkles (p50), Eggplant Parmagiano Stew (p80), Spinach-Tofu Manicotti (p117), Zucchini Chedda Soup (p77).

Upon re-perusing "The Uncheese Cookbook", there are still many dishes I plan to sample, including: Classic Quiche (p102), Lemon Teasecake (p169)-the "Key Lime" variation, Quick and Easy Alfredo Sauce (p63), Hot Spinach-Artichoke Dip (p49), and Curried Cauliflower Cheez Soup (p76).

Other features of the book you will appreciate are the charts of nutritional values for each of the recipes, and the listings of food allergens (gluten, soy, nuts, corn). On the other hand, the book contains only 4 pages of photographs, and certainly could benefit from more.

If you already own "The Uncheese Cookbook" but haven't picked it up for a while, I suggest it's worth another look. If you don't, please get a hold of a copy and try its innovative and healthy recipes based on plant-based ingredients. Just remember to put aside your expectations of dairy-cheese taste, and you won't be disappointed!

Eating Healthy When Eating Out

Eating out can be a lot of fun and convenient. Mom especially loves a night out of the kitchen. But guess what suffers from a night out on the town -- your waistline. With Mount Rushmore-sized portions and dietary disasters larding every menu, restaurants are dangerous places for your health and your weight. It's important to get your priorities straight when choosing where to dine out and what to eat.

Most mistakes are made within the first and last 10 minutes of any restaurant experience. You can use these tips for "book-ending" meals the healthy low glycemic impact way:

·          Skip the free bread and ask for cut-up raw vegetables instead.
·          Order oil and vinegar on the side and dress the salad lightly yourself -- relying on the server or chef to do so gets you about 400 extra calories per salad.
·          Ask to replace the potato or rice with sautèed vegetables.
·          If you really want dessert, order one for the table and have just a few bites.

When life steers you out of the kitchen, here are your best bets for a few of the more common types of restaurant choices.

Mexican: Fajitas, black beans, refried beans (no lard), avocados, guacamole, brown rice, jicama, grilled chicken or fish, ceviche, camarones, and arroz con pollo (rice with chicken).
Italian: Sauteed vegetables, salad, seafood salad, fish with olive oil, whole-wheat pasta with marinara sauce. Skip the al fredo sauce.
Mediterranean: Hummus (chickpeas), tahini (sesame paste), tabbouleh (cracked-wheat salad) bean soup, lentils.
Asian: Seaweed salad, sea vegetables, miso soup, edamame, sashimi, sushi, any vegetables that are not fried, such as bok choy, bamboo shoots, green beans, snow peas and water chestnuts, fresh spring rolls, moo shu chicken or vegetables, and drunken chicken.
American: seafood, fish with olive oil, chicken, petite steak, grilled or baked options

Also, don't forget to steer clear of anything that has fried in the description. Sauces and gravies should be avoided or at least asked to be on the side. Vegetables soups with broth are better options than creamy soups. Check the whole menu - you may find healthy side options with other entrees to replace your entree's side dish. Don't be afraid to ask your waiter for a healthy substitute. Remember, the restaurant wants to make you happy so you will become a returning customer. 

Authentic Japanese Food In Orange County "Matsuda Market" Co

This is a secret spot as you can see when you eat and you are the only non Asian" it's going to be good" . Spicy miso soup . Matsuda is a hidden treasure in Orange county California that you can eat drink and buy fresh authentic Japanese food. Probably the best place in So Cal to get sushi grade sashimi (fish).Created on November 20, 2009 using flipshare.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gaBBo88moQ&hl=en

8 Steps For a Woman Dancing With Cancer

Submit. Give up. Make room for the miracle.

Inform yourself. Listen to your intuition. Examine all the options, but only use what feels right to you.

Accept support. Surround yourself with loving friends, healing music, special colors, prayer and affirmation. Create a ceremony of healing/wholing and invite your supporters.

Anoint your breast(s) with healing herbal oils such as calendula, dandelion, or poke. Visualize healing energies suffusing your tissues.

Maximize the healthy qualities of your diet:



Use organic olive oil and butter to the exclusion of other fats.
Increase your use of beans, especially lentils, and fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, miso, tamari, homemade wines and beers.
Include immune building and anticancer herbs in your diet:


Daily use of a nourishing infusion, especially red clover flower or burdock root or violet leaf infusions.
Daily use of fresh herb vinegars, especially yellow dock, burdock, and dandelion root vinegars.
Frequent use of a long-cooked soup containing seaweed (such as kombu or wakame), astragalus root, and medicinal mushrooms (reishi, shiitake, puffballs, etc).


Increase you exercise level. Take a yoga or tai chi class weekly. Walk daily. Get a weekly massage. Pamper yourself with activity. Use drugs (chemotherapy, tamoxifen, anesthesia, pain killers) as required but:
consider a short trial of a powerful herb such as poke root before resorting to drugs; and
always combine drug use with complementary herbs. For instance, protect the liver with milk thistle seed tincture.

Use radiation and surgery as needed but:

always combine with complementary herbs; and
be willing to set limits that you feel comfortable with - they can't take your lymph glands if you say "No."

Disappearing Miso!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqqQkuHpo_4&hl=en

Best Way To Learn Japanese - A Tale Of Two Cities - Part I

Living in Japan is the best way to learn Japanese because you have the bonuses of having first hand experience of Japanese culture, the country and its people. But before you leave, you need to get your brain ready to take on Japanese and Japan. To lessen culture shock and fortify your acquisition of Japanese, it would be wise to learn to speak Japanese online simply because it is convenient and affordable. Plus the faster you can master the hiragana and katakana (two standard syllabaries that are used in the Japanese writing system), the faster you'll be able to grasp the reading and writing in the textbooks and hence jump start your learning.

Choosing a city depends on whether you're a city or a country person, or a bit of both. For those of you who enjoy the city and country life, Okazaki is the perfect city for you to learn Japanese fluently and experience Japan.

Okazaki is located in the eastern part of the Aichi Prefecture (district) in central Japan. It is about a 2-hour ride on the Shinkansen (bullet train) between both Tokyo and Osaka, and Kyoto and Mount Fuji. The main part of the city is bicycle friendly, and to the east are the many hills and the forests that cover them. Okazaki has milder overall temperatures compared to most of Japan, the spring and autumn months are the best times to visit. Also, Okazaki is not as populous as most other cities. The city has many outdoor recreation facilities and parks for the outdoor enthusiast. For those of you who are in need of more contemporary and urban stimulation, the city of Nagoya is only a 30-minute train ride away to the usual big city hustle, bustle, and exciting nightlife.

Okazaki is a prefect symbosis of the old and modern world, of the city and country. This enables you to experience traditional as well as contemporary Japan. Furthermore, despite its recent economic growth, Okazaki has being able to preserve its historical traditions and character. This is evident in the many famous shrines and temples such as the Takisan and Daijuji temples, and the renowned Okazaki Castle. The Okazaki castle was the birthplace of the famous Japanese military leader Tokugawa Iyeyasu. He was portrayed in James Clavell's novel Shogun based on historical figures and events of Japan in the 1600s. However, Okazaki is most famous for their fireworks. The city proudly showcases these fireworks with amazing firework displays during the three-day Summer Festival in August, which is attended by people nationwide.

Because Okazaki is smaller, it is cheaper to live in and accommodations that are close to the school/college are easier to find. In addition, Okazaki language colleges include free cultural workshops such as making arts with Washi (origami paper) and weekend excursions, such as trips to Kyoto, to visit and explore the old Imperial city. Or you could opt to plan your own excursions.

All work and no play make you a burned out student. So you should take advantage of using your free time to interact with the locals by:

· Checking out the Okazaki bars and restaurants that specialize in tempura or in fugu (blowfish)or udon and kishimen noodle dishes or the world famous Okazaki Hatcho miso soup that is known for its medicinal and health benefits.

· Checking out the Okazaki nightlife that offers many Karaoke bars and local Japanese lounges called izakaya where you can eat and drink.

Remember the best way to learn Japanese is in Japan. However, before you go you need to educate yourself with regards to its history, culture and etiquette, and at least learn basic Japanese. If you want the best of both worlds, then Okazaki is the ideal city to study Japanese. Okazaki offers you a chance to experience a truly Japanese experience without the often daunting "bigness" and fast-paced pulse of a "mega" city like Tokyo.

How To Make Miso Soup

This delicate but intensely flavored soup is like chicken soup for the Japanese soul — minus the chicken. And it's just as easy to make if you have the right ingredients.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gy1rsiQoW3M&hl=en

Too Good to be Healthy Pizza

Let's transform an all-time favorite food, pizza, into a healthy all-time favorite. This pizza is high in fiber, antioxidants and phytonutrients that fight inflammation, heart disease and cancer, and it just tastes good. It's a great way to introduce dark leafy green vegetables into your diet. I encourage everyone to have at least one serving of these daily. Swiss chard, broccoli, kale, collards and cabbage are examples. These vegetables have two to five times the antioxidant vitamins A and C of other vegetables. They contain unique phytonutrients that causes the liver to do a better job at detoxifying cancer causing substances. They also cause cancer cells to stop multiplying and die. Dark leafy greens are an excellent source of calcium without the fat and inflammation causing casein of cow's milk. Remember cows don't get those big bones by drinking milk. They get them by eating grass. We get them by eating dark leafy green vegetables.

This recipe uses Swiss chard. Like all dark leafy greens, they grow in cooler weather. So you will find fresh local Swiss chard at farmers markets right now. It should be brightly colored, crisp and free of tiny holes that may be a sign of insect damage. Wash it just before using. Otherwise, it stores well in the refrigerator in a plastic bag. This recipe also calls for red miso, Japanese fermented soy paste. It lends a dairy like flavor to the pesto sauce. Find it in the dairy case at your local health food store. This pizza is tasty and satisfying without the cheese.

Too Good to be Healthy Pizza

1 Kabuli Whole Wheat Pizza Crust (available at Wild Oats)

1/3 cup non-dairy pesto (recipe below)

½ bunch Swiss chard

10 sun dried tomatoes

12 Kalamata olives

3 water packed artichoke hearts

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Wash the chard and trim any rough ends. Chop the leaves into bite size pieces and the stems into ¼ inch pieces. Place the stems into a steamer basket first, and then add the leaves. Steam for 10 minutes. Hydrate the sun-dried tomatoes by simmering them in water for 5 minutes or as directed on the package. Allow them to drain and cool in a strainer.

Meanwhile, smash the olives with the flat side of a chef's knife. This loosens the seed. Slice the olives in half lengthwise and discard the seeds. Slice each artichoke heart lengthwise into 3 or 4 slices. Grate the cheese if you are using it. Slice the sun-dried tomatoes lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices.

Place the pizza crust on a pizza pan. Spread 1/3 cup of non-dairy pesto on the pizza. Using a fork or tongs, spread the Swiss chard evenly over the pesto. Arrange the olives, artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes over the Swiss chard.

Bake for 9 - 10 minutes or until crust reaches desired crispness. Serves 3 - 4 people.

Non-Dairy Pesto

3 - 4 cups loosely packed fresh basil

4 tablespoons olive oil

1 or 2 cloves garlic

2 tablespoons red miso

½ cup raw walnuts

Combine the ingredients and ¼ cup raw walnuts in a blender at low speed for 2 minutes. Add the remaining raw walnuts and blend for 1 minute more.

Vegetarian Diet Tips: Make Your Vegetarian Diet A Balanced Diet!

The world has opened eyes to the harmful side-effects of non-veg food like red meat and is now opening arms to Vegetarian Food. A very common myth found among common man is that vegetarian food doesnt provide you with necessary nutrients but a Vegetarian Diet, in no ways, is deprived of necessary nutrients, only if you have a balanced Vegetarian Diet. Make sure you eat a lot of fruits and dont follow particular monotonous meals.

Some Nutrients you dont come across normally in Vegetarian Diets are:-

a) Iron

b) Calcium

c) Zinc

d) Protein

e) Vitamin D

f) Vitamin B12

But you can always have vegetarian source for these nutrients. On a other side of the coin, there are a lots of benefits of Vegetarian Food (incomplete). They are rich in:

. You can Find Iron in the following Vegetarian Food items:-
Cashews, tomato juice, rice, garbanzo beans (chick peas) and tofu.

. You can Find Calcium in the following Vegetarian Food items:-
Dairy products, fortified soymilk, fortified orange juice, tofu and broccoli.

. You can find Zinc in the following Vegetarian Food items:-
Whole grains (especially the germ and bran of the grain), nuts, tofu, leafy vegetables (lettuce, spinach, cabbage), root vegetables (onions, potatoes, carrots, celery, radishes), eggs and dairy products.

. You can find Protein in the following Vegetarian Food items:-
Vegetarians must eat a variety of plant foods over the course of a day to get enough protein. Eg: Tempeh, miso lentils, tofu, nuts, seeds, and peas.

. You can find Vitamin D in the following Vegetarian Food items:-
fortified cereals (or a small amount of sunlight) and Fortified milk and soymilk

. You can Vitamin B12 in the following Vegetarian Food items:-
Tempeh, miso, eggs, dairy products, fortified soymilk and cereals.. Tempeh and miso are foods made from soybeans.

They are low in calories and fat and high in protein.

Know more about Balanced Diet at [http://www.weightloss-health.com/balanced_diet.htm]

Pokemon Supercool Adventure adventure 1

Pokemon Trainer Justin must go get his first pokemon.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPUYgQm5O_Y&hl=en

The Many Faces of Vegan

VAY-gun, veggin', veg*n, VEE-gin: no matter how people say it, there's more variety than they think. Most long term vegans swear they eat a wider selection of food than they did prior to excluding animal products. Often mystifying cashiers with my produce items, I can personally confirm this experience! As vegans, we've all heard the question, "But, what do you eat?" usually followed by one or more of the following: "Rabbit food?" "You must be one of those health nuts" "Where do you get your protein?" "Are you one of those spray-painting animal rights activists?" "Seriously, what do you eat?" The answer depends on whom they ask. Vegan diets and lifestyles reach as far and wide as the individuals embracing them, with every combination imaginable. You'll find below some of the most common faces of vegan.

The Animal Lover: Who doesn't love animals? I'd venture to say that at least 80% of all vegans hold compassion for non-human friends as the major reason for eschewing meat, dairy, fish, eggs, honey and leather. Somewhere along the way they asked, "If I wouldn't eat my dog, then how can I eat or wear a pig?" Or cow? Or goose? They stopped drawing a line between "their" pet and other creatures. They realized that they love all animals and they invited this love into all aspects of life. They might adopt stray kitties, rescue animals from the pound, volunteer at Farm Sanctuary, become veterinarians, or find deep connections with animals in the wild. Famous animal lovers include: Albert Einstein, Thomas Edison, and Jennifer McCann (The Vegan Lunchbox).

Animal Rights Activists: These people love animals, but they demonstrate that love through more aggressive, public action. They write letters to editors and representatives, picket restaurants that buy factory farmed animals, and expose pharmaceutical companies that engage in torturous animal testing. Some activists risk imprisonment for illegally infiltrating labs and farms, so they can film shocking footage later distributed by groups like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). Others use celebrity status to garner attention. And yes, some activists do spray red paint on fur coats in order to remind wearers of unnecessary bloodshed in the name of fashion. Famous animal rights activists include: Alicia Silverstone, Pamela Anderson, Leonardo da Vinci, Pythagoras, Abraham Lincoln, and George Bernard Shaw.

Environmentalists: The term tree-hugger isn't so far off: economists estimate that one extra acre of trees survives each year when someone embraces a vegan diet. "Food grown directly for human consumption occupies 60 million acres. Food grown to feed livestock occupies 1.2 billion acres." "It takes 16 pounds of grain and 2,500 gallons of water to produce 1 pound of meat. Yet 16 people can be fed on the grain it takes to produce that pound of meat. Growing that amount of grain requires only 250 gallons of water. Countries such as Ethiopia and some Central American countries use their farmland to supply the United States with cheap burgers instead of growing healthful grain foods for their own starving people. Every 2 seconds, a child starves to death somewhere in the world" (Robertson, Robin. Vegan Planet, The Harvard Common Press: 2003, p. 98). These and other statistics urge conservationists to follow a strict vegetarian diet. The most famous environmentalist vegan is John Robbins, author of Diet for a Small America.

The Health Nut: OK, some stereotypes offer a tiny whole grain of truth! This group loves how vegan food makes them look and/or feel. Nutritionally, they recognize the superiority of plant protein, and they get all the protein they need, thank you very much. They might follow a particular diet like Raw Foods or Macrobiotics (featured later), or they might just veganize whatever trendy diet hits the mainstream. I've actually read food diaries from vegan South Beach-ers, and I've seen smoothie directions to stay in the vegan "Zone." Think strong. Think energetic. Think beautiful. Think extra special ordering. Famous health nuts include: Robert Cheeke (a.k.a. "the world's most recognized vegan body builder"), Marie Oser (VegTV), Woody Harrelson, and Tracy Bingham (Baywatch).

Hipster Vegans: These folks are cool. They have that certain something that screams for attention-"in your face" like activists, but in a scene-stealing kind of way. The punk community features a lot of hipster vegans, as does Hollywood. Just because these chaps and gals got style, don't mean they ain't serious. They just know how to push the envelope in creative ways, wearing hairstyles or tattoos that demand a conversation, T-shirts emblazoned with "Beef: It's what's rotting in your colon," creating lasting artwork or screenplays, or hosting a "Fashion with Compassion" lingerie show. In the hipster hall of fame: The Vegan Vixens, Pink, and of course, Herbivore Magazine's "coolest vegan alive," Sarah Kramer.

Junk Food Vegans: Fruit Loops, Jolly Ranchers and Kool-Aid are vegan! So are Frito's, Sweet Tarts, and Duncan Hine's California Walnut Brownie mix. Keebler Vienna Fingers, Crisco, and Cocoa Puffs: yep, all vegan. Hey, folks, the saying "I don't love animals. I just really hate vegetables!" is supposed to be tongue-in-cheek. No hall of shame here: animals appreciate your effort, but a little kale won't kill you. Honest.

Macrobiotics: Made popular in the 1970's by Michio Kushi, macrobiotics draws upon ancient principles regarding the "yin" (expansive) or "yang" (contracting) energy of foods. The word "macrobiotic" means "big life"-the idea of creating a full, radiant life by balancing extremes. Whole grains, especially brown rice, play a starring role in the macrobiotic diet because they rest near the middle of a yin-yang continuum. Other must-haves include sea vegetables, umeboshi plums, miso soup, greens, tempeh and vegetables. Considered an extremely strict diet, macrobiotics does allow room for occasional "cheating." Some macrobiotic followers eat a little meat, fish, dairy or refined sugar, but the overall diet focuses on unprocessed, low-glycemic vegan foods with balanced energies and tastes. Gwyneth Paltrow and Christina Pirello are two macrobiotic celebrities.

Raw Fooders: Sometimes considered the strictest vegan expression, a Raw Foods Diet isn't always vegan. (Some followers consume raw fish, dairy, meat and eggs.) For the most part, though, Raw Fooders eat raw, sprouted, fermented and/or dehydrated plant-based foods. Proponents cite living enzymes and lack of the toxins produced by 105 degree-plus cooking as the secret to raw foods' healing power. Superfoods like raw cacao, spirulina, wheat grass juice, maca and goji berries find their way into smoothies, raw cakes, and dehydrated treats. Famous followers like David Wolfe, Shazzie and the Boutenko's (a.k.a. Raw Family) report vastly increased energy, cure of diseases, clearer thinking, weight loss and a fountain of youth effect. Although most vegans consume some raw food, Raw Fooders generally receive 80-100% of their calories from uncooked foods.

Spiritually Motivated Vegans: Following "a vegetarian diet for spiritual reasons," conjures images of Eastern traditions like Buddhism or Hinduism, with their emphasis on purity of mind, body, and spirit. Indeed, the first mock meats were created in Buddhist kitchens to support monks who had vowed ahimsa (non-harm) yet missed former diets of meat and fish. But other religions support veganism, too. A growing number of Christians interpret the phrase "Stewards of the Earth" as a call to environmental responsibility and non-cruelty to all of Earth's creatures. Salt Lake City offers a surprisingly vegan dining scene due to the many Mormons (Church of Latter Day Saints) believing no one ate meat in Eden. I know Jews who honor the original humane intent of kosher laws by celebrating Seder with a "Passover Yam." Healers, "psychics," and yoga and meditation instructors often find enhanced clarity by adopting a cleaner and more compassionate vegan lifestyle. Famous spiritually motivated vegans include David Life and Sharon Gannon (founders of Jivamukti Yoga School) and Erin Pavlina (former editor of VegFamily).

So, with all this diversity, what exactly does vegan mean? At the first Vegan Society Meeting on November 1, 1944, South Yorkshire's Donald Watson coined the term "vegan" and observed it was "the beginning and end of vegetarian." If you write a paragraph, keeping the initial and final letters of each word and scrambling everything in between, readers can still understand the message. Ancient Greeks referred to this phenomenon as the "alpha and omega," meaning the beginning and the end: that which makes sense of everything in between. Veganism takes vegetarianism to its logical conclusion. If we want to show compassion for animals, then let's avoid all forms of animal cruelty-including factory farms, animal testing, animal skinning and commercial bee hives. If we want lower cholesterol, then let's eat a cholesterol-free diet. If eating lower on the food chain can save this planet, then let's follow a completely plant-based diet. The many faces of vegan offer hope for a future in which we can all smile.

Beat Cold and Flu with Chinese Medicine

Autumn.......Yang turning into Yin; time to remain calm and peaceful, gather one's spirit and energy, remain focused and keep the Lung energy full, clean and quiet... - The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine

Yes, it's that time of the year here in North America. Autumn is now complete, colder weather is seeping in, we are on the verge of the rainy, snowy and all around colder season, and with that, comes increased vulnerability to respiratory ailments. During this change of season, cold and flu are the most common ailments that we get hit with, resulting in a compromised immune system, a system out of balance and impaired functioning.

But there is hope in the battle against cold and flu. No, I'm not talking about the flu shot. I am however an active proponent of maintenance and taking care of your body and immune system so as to avoid attracting the pathogens that cause cold and flu. However, if you succumb to the cold and flu bug this season, there are a number of pro-active steps you can take by utilizing Traditional Chinese Medicine.

First, TCM views the common cold as an invasion, not being invaded by a "bug" but the body being invaded by wind, one of the five main external elements in our climate. TCM describes wind as the "spearhead of 100 diseases" as it is the main element that we get affected with most often, and drives all other elements. Think of the last time you had a cold--probably one of the first symptoms that you noticed was that you felt achy, probably had a sore neck or stuffy head, along with sniffles and sneezing that followed thereafter.

When wind invades the body, it hits the exterior portion first: stiff neck and back, arms, chills all over, headache at the back of the head, coughing in the upper chest; then as it progresses further into the body, we feel deeper symptoms such as sore throat, headache with irritability, cough with yellow mucous and fever. TCM calls these patterns wind cold and wind heat respectively.

In order to be pro-active at not only maintaining our health, it is important to take steps to nourish our Qi, or vital energy and working at balancing these elements. The TCM approach to cold and flu comprises of several approaches: acupuncture, herbal treatment, moxabustion (rolled mugwort) as well as dietary modifications. These also can be used not just after you are plagued with cold, but also as preventative medicine to strengthen the immune system and prevent the wind element from invading the body. Acupuncture and moxabustion in particular are important in strengthening Qi and expelling the wind from the body. Specific herbal formulas are often used at different stages of cold and flu to prevent deeper penetration of wind, and ultimately infection. Cordyceps and astragalus are good herbs to take to strengthen the lungs, which are our primary source of defense against cold and flu.

Chinese Medicine also recommends that dietary changes be made during this time: for example, no dairy, meat, sugary or starchy food. A plain diet of vegetables, lots of fluids, miso soup with onions, garlic, ginger and tofu are recommended as the main protein and carbohydrate sources. Getting enough rest, keeping your neck and head warm is also important. Remember, the wind invades from the back first - so especially keep the back and of the body and neck covered.

So ultimately, you can do something to ward off cold and flu. It is preventable and the battle can indeed be won. Boosting immunity and keeping your body in balance is key.

Here's to your health!

ofira lam

drinking miso soup



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6Cg4w3dalY&hl=en

The Portfolio Diet: The Solution to Heart Disease

What if there was a combination of foods that were as effective at lowering LDL cholesterol as prescription drugs? Would it be worth adding some new foods to what you eat each day to avoid medication?

This is what the latest in a series of research studies Dr. Jenkins from the University of Toronto shows. Studies have previously shown that various foods, such as nuts, soy protein, oat bran, and plant sterols all can have a cholesterol-lowering effect. But what if you combined all these foods together? Dr. Jenkins' latest research shows that combining all these foods together is as effective as taking a statin drug. The results showed a 30.9% decrease in LDL cholesterol from the statin and a decrease of 28.2% from the portfolio combination of all these foods.

Dr. Jenkins is calling this a dietary portfolio, but it's becoming known as 'The Portfolio Diet'. The concept is to add all of these foods, in a type of portfolio plan, like investments, to cover all possibilities for better heart health. This is not a weight loss diet, however, although the concepts for weight loss and lowered cholesterol could certainly be combined, with proper education and guidance by a qualified nutrition expert.

What is the Portfolio Diet?

Just follow these guidelines:

1. Substitute soy foods for meat. Drink soy milk instead of milk and substitute soy protein foods for other meats.

2. Eat as much 'sticky' fiber as possible. People in the study took three daily servings of natural psyllium supplements. Oats and barley replace other grains and preferred vegetables include eggplant and okra.

3. Include plant sterol-enriched margarines, such as benecol and Take Control. Plant sterols are also available in capsule form as dietary supplements.

4. A handful of nuts every day. In the study, almonds were eaten and the Almond Board of California offers portfolio diet recipes on its website (look at recipes on http://www.almondboard.com/), but any tree nut will reduce cholesterol.

Here are some examples of a typical day:

Breakfast - Include soy milk, oat bran cereal with chopped fruit and almonds, oatmeal bread with sterol-enriched margarine, and some jam.

Lunch - Soy lunchmeats, oat bran bread, bean soup, fruit.

Dinner - Stir fry with vegetables, tofu, fruit and almonds.

Snacks - Include nuts, yogurt, and soy milk thickened with a psyllium supplement such as Metamucil.

Has this diet shown to be effective?

Jenkins et al were curious how this diet would work in the real world, so they signed people up who said they wanted to lower their cholesterol levels. They told them what to eat and gave them sample menus -- but they didn't provide any prepared foods.

Dr. Jenkins said that about 30% of the people had a 20% reduction in their LDL cholesterol levels after six months. Another 30% had a 15% reduction in LDL levels, and another third failed to lower their cholesterol levels, believed to be because they were unable to follow the diet as strictly as those with good results. What seemed to be the biggest obstacle for people was eating soy food products. Dr. Jenkins said that most people could eat almonds and substitute plant sterol products for margarine.

Is the diet for you?

Many people are concerned about heart disease and stroke, especially if they are struggling with weight control and high blood cholesterol levels. However, many people are not comfortable going on prescription medications. Since this is an eating plan that does not eliminate food groups or follow some type of fad, there is no risk to going on this 'diet'. In fact, it's not really a 'diet' at all, but a way of eating. And no one has to do anything but substitute some of the recommended foods for foods they normally eat today.

So, let's say you would like to try the diet, but, like many other Americans, are concerned about adding soy foods to your diet. You have never eaten them and don't even know where to find them! Well, they are actually in your favorite supermarket already! It may be time to experiment, though, because not everyone is going to like all the soy foods that are available. For more on soyfoods, check out the Soyfoods Association of American at http://www.soyfoods.org/. Here is a list of foods to consider:

Soy milk. There are multiple brands and different fat levels. You can buy whole fat, low fat and non fat. You can buy 'regular' (no flavoring), or any number of flavors. I have personally found one brand that I like over others and you may have to experiment to find one you like, as well.

Edemame. These are frozen whole soybeans that are harvested when still green. They can be found in most health food stores, such as Trader Joes or Whole Foods Market, in the frozen food section, usually next to the lima beans. These can be found shelled or in the shell. You can add them to soups or stews or eat them by themselves. I like to eat them as my protein for breakfast.

Tofu. Also known as 'bean curd', tofu is a soft, cheese-like food made my curdling soymilk. The curds are then pressed into a solid block. There are different levels of firmness; silken, soft and firm. Silken is a creamy, custard-like product that works well with pureed or blended dishes. Soft tofu is best used in recipes that call for blended tofu, or in soups. The firm tofu is more dense and solid and holds up well in stir fry dishes, even on the grill. The firm tofu is higher in protein, fat and calcium than the other forms, but since this is a plant fat, this should not be an issue. For recipe ideas, see this link from the Indiana Soybean Board; http://www.soyfoods.com/soyfoodsdescriptions/tofu.html

Textured Vegetable (or Soy) Protein Products. This is the soyfood product that many soy burgers and other 'meat substitute' products contain. The best way to determine if these foods are for you are to experiment with a few options.

Miso. Miso is a rich, salty paste condiment that characterizes the essence of Japanese cooking. Traditionally, miso is made by combining with a grain, salt, and a mold culture and then aged in cedar vats for one to three years. Readers may recognize the name because this is a popular soup.

Soy nuts. Soy nuts are whole soybeans that have been soaked then baked. They can be found in snack isles and manufacturers now include soynuts in any number of coatings, including chocolate.

Tempeh. This is a traditional Indonesian food that is most commonly found in Asian stores. It is a chunky, tender soybean cake. It can be marinated and grilled or added to soups, casseroles, or even chili.

It can be very easy for some people to add nuts to their diet. In fact, it may be harder to not add too MANY nuts! It may also be 'doable' to add more sticky fiber to your diet, also, with a little planning. However, it may be a greater challenge to find soy foods that can be enjoyably substituted for meats you are used to eating. However, if your health depends on it, and you refuse medications, this may be a great thing to try, especially since there are no risks involved with adding these foods to your diet. Just remember that these are foods to be substituted, not added, to the diet. Since calories do also still count, adding extras to your current diet could result in weight gain, leading to new concerns.

miso soup (english) - [Jheine-Miu duet]

we do not own anything here except for our voice.. it's been a long time since i uploaded a vid here in youtube XD.. so i decided to have a duet with Miu-chan:) Tegoshi Yuya = jheine05 [jheine] Takahisa Masuda = iloveyamachii04 [Miu] audio mix: Jheine pv mix: Jheine if you like it, please subscribe, rate, or comment.. btw.. here's Miu-chan's account in youtube.. www.youtube.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQoo6rWzJ9g&hl=en

Lose Fat Eating Dinner!

As your final main meal of the day, it's important that you continue to eat sensibly in the evening, especially since at this stage of the day you are likely to be relaxing and unwinding. This means you will be burning fewer calories, so it is vital that the food you eat is easily digested.

To do this you will need to reduce the amount of grains that you put on your dinner plate, which includes rice, pasta, bread, potato and couscous. This is mainly due to the fact that you simply won't need so much energy from your food at this stage of the day. Instead you will want to eat a plentiful amount of vegetables, which are lower in calories but at the same time full of fibre, to keep you feeling satisfied. Aim to eat twice the amount of vegetables that you have at lunch and half the amount of grains.

This system is simple to remember, but it is important that you listen to how your body feels. If doing this makes you feel hungry or lacking in energy then slowly up the amount of grains that you serve yourself at each meal until a happy medium is reached.

If you find yourself out in the evening, but not at a restaurant, follow the advice given for lunchtime 'on the move'. Otherwise, there are a few basic rules that you want to try to abide by. Remember that eating out is a treat, so by all means enjoy the food that you eat, but still bear in mind that what you eat could set you back, if you do not order wisely.

Before ordering, avoid attacking the bread basket. Ask instead for a small bowl of olives.

Choose either a starter and main course, or a main course and pudding.

Avoid overeating.

For your starter go for a high protein option, such as a meat or fish dish.

Avoid doughy bread options.

For your main course try to order something light on sauce.

Grilled is better than fried.

Order something that you haven't already eaten that day, to add variety to your diet.

Make sure that your main meal comes with vegetables, otherwise order a side portion.

Go easy on rice and pasta in the evening.

Drinking wine is ok, but also order a bottle of still water to accompany your food.

(You won't drink so much alcohol and you will be doing your digestion a favour too).

Finally, when possible, avoid eating out late, and skip that late-night coffee.

For those of you at home for your dinner, try one of the following healthy options:

Grilled fish of your choice, mixed vegetables, small serving of Butter Bean Mash

Grilled chicken sprinkled with mixed herbs / ground pepper, with ratatouille and brown rice

Oven cooked salmon with cauliflower cheese

Tuna steak with lemon and lime dressing, steamed vegetables and quinoa

Vegetable stir-fry with meat or fish - the more vegetable variety, the better

Chilli Con Carne with red kidney beans, organic brown rice

Chicken Ramen - Miso soup paste mixed with water. Add vegetables and chicken strips (light)

Pan Fried Dover Sole with wilted spinach and lemon dressing, vegetables

Spice coated chicken with ratatouille and a sweet potato

Grilled steak, lentils (mixed with green curry paste) and spinach

Chicken and ginger vegetable stir-fry with noodles

Italian Seasoned Chicken with fettucine and asparagus

Salmon with basil and ginger, stir-fried noodles with crispy vegetables

Lamb mince bolognaise (add vegetables of choice) with a wholemeal pitta bread

Lamb chops with fresh mint, sweet potato mash and green beans

Chicken Fajitas - add a variety of vegetables and look for wholemeal fajitas.

REMEMBER: Go easy on your portion sizes. If in doubt, underestimate and then add more.
Good luck and eating sensibly!

miso soup and basis veggie soup

making easy, tasty, cleanse-friendly soups



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhNytmpV5Zo&hl=en

wasabi & rice drink

Jomari's 18th @ Nijo Castle 4/17/09 Ingredients: rasberry ice tea ginger salt pepper miso soup soy sauce hella rice hella wasabi whip cream on top



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqW3yzoPR-I&hl=en