Posts Tagged With: herbal Tea

Why are we raw this June!

Posted on May 31, 2012 by leroy watson

Raw June is here for the Beach House. Jane and I are going cold veggie (and fruit) for the entire month and we both cannot wait to get going.

It really has come around quickly this 100% raw/vegan June adventure. We have both been working quite a bit lately and have had less time to plan for the big plunge than we would have liked, hence the lack of any ‘build-up’ posts. As with most things, we’re going straight in there!

I have a strange excitement in the pit of my stomach and I don’t know why. I know that I will feel alot better and have bags more energy, focus and vitality, but there is the feeling that this could be something very big in my life. It could be a huge lifestyle change for the better, no matter how unconventional it is and no matter how many people call me a ‘weirdo’ (there have been quite a few already) I going for this new diet and looking forward to experimenting with my body and mind in a good way. We are what we eat, well, we shall see.

The main reason for eating raw is that cooking kills nutrients in food. Vitamin C and B are heat sensitive, enzymes are also destroyed when food is cooked, which are essential to the function of the body. If enzymes are not replenished in the body, we can age quickly and loss health. Raw foods have been used for years to treat ailments and illness, most famously by Dr Ann Wigmore,who set up the Hippocrates Health Institute. The truth is that we are exposed to more pollutants than previous generations and our food has less nutrients, even organic food is grown on soil that is less rich than is was in previous times (normally due to bad farming techniques).

Ecologically, if we all ate more raw foods there would be a relief on the planets resources. No cooking conserves energy, there is less packaging (hopefully non) with raw foods, there are no emissions created no processing, the waste is compostable and biodegradable, meaning no rubbish.

Below is the Raw Food Pyramid (thanks to the Almost Raw Vegan for this), this replaces the average diet with meat, dairy etc and will give you an idea of what we will be munching on in June. We are eating no dairy, refined foods, wheat etc and no alcohol or caffeine. Our diet will consist of many different types of salads, smoothies and juices and another host of interesting raw foods that you will seldom find, especially in the UK where raw food is still a relatively new thing. In the States and Australia for example, raw food seems to be very popular. Many people say that raw food will become the new vegetarianism for this generation, I have already seen restaurants with raw options on the menu.

We have always eaten alot of raw food, we just didn’t necessarily call it ‘raw’, just a salad or a smoothie. We will try and be as close to 100% raw as possible, but aren’t really too fussy about things. We’ll still be drinking herbal teas and if our new lovely looking olive oil is not certified raw, we’ll still use it. The same goes for nuts, seeds, dried fruits, pastes etc which are all borderline raw foods. We love these items too much and deem their nutritional values to be too important to eliminate from our diet.

We hope to open a few people’s eyes, minds and palates to the joys of raw food. Raw food is nutrient rich, meaning you don’t need to eat or digest as much. When you are eating a bag of crisps, or packet of biscuits, the reason you are not getting full is because they are devoid of nutrients. Your body needs the right fuel! A raw diet puts that fuel in and makes it readily available. We have had a few days almost raw already and the we have been buzzing! I went for my normal jog and needed to extend it a little, up the mountain. I couldn’t stop! With raw food, your body needs less energy for digestion, which can be utilised in other beneficial ways.

The body has clearly define cycles or natural rhythms:

12pm-8pm Digestion cycle

8pm-4am Absorption cycle

4am – 12pm Elimination cycle

The raw diet will help to cleanse our system of toxins and bring us into balance. After gradually eating healthier for a number of years (we are not just diving in here, we have been eating well for a while now) my body is quite sensitive to toxins and rich foods. I sometimes get what is called a food ‘hangover’ after a cheese or chocolate binge, I will be glad to be free of them. Raw food is devoid of toxins and packed with nutrients. There is a popular raw slogan, ‘stop counting calories and start counting nutrients’. It makes perfect sense to me that what we eat has a profound effect on our bodies and minds. What we consume affects us on ways that we cannot see or know. Raw food seems like a stepping stone for me to a greater understanding of my body and what makes me tick, what makes me truly happy.

Raw food will also free up so much time, as I mentioned we are both busy this summer with work, so not cooking will allow us to do other things. The garden is definitely looking like it needs some TLC.

We will be taking alot of inspiration from our fellow bloggers of the cyber world and also have some good books. ‘Eat Smart, Eat Raw’ by Kate Wood being one of the main ones. Written by a Brit for British folk, mainly important because we don’t have the plethora of fruits and veggies that many countries enjoy. We also have the long cold, dark winters, where soup is our best friend and a chilled smoothie seems like a difficult proposition.

We will be supplementing our diets with a few superfood-type bits. Jane picked up some Barley Grass at the health food shop and that is supposed to be super charged stuff. We will also be drinking propolis daily, which is a bee resin with amazing properties. We’ll be writing about it soon. We will also be sure to drink plenty of water, as this seems to be important no matter what foods you are eating. Become more fluid! It is worth noting that many mineral waters are not organic and the best water you can drink is water that has been treated by reverse osmosis, this is pure H2O. You should also not drink water, or any liquid with meals, as it affects digestion and absorption (diluting stomach acids).

So we are going out in a blaze of intoxication tonight. We said we wouldn’t, but we are. It is a relatively decadent evening with some smoked stilton with sparkling wine planned, followed by some of the finest chocolate I have ever tasted (post coming soon..).

Raw June, a time when we in the Beach House gain a greater awareness and respect for the foods we eat and the bodies we inhabit; a time when we gain a new insight into the world of nutrition and the impact it has on us.

Jane and I are both very positive about all of this, which we feel is crucial, as our mental state has a more profound effect on our health than anything else.

Happy Days!

Categories: Blogs, Healthy Eating, Healthy Living, Organic, Raw Food, Vegan | Tags: alcohol, ann wigmore, body, caffiene, chocolate, cycles, diet, digestive system, dr ann wigmore, ecology, fluid, food, health, healthy eating, healthy living, healthy-living, herbal Tea, hippocrates health institute, lifestyle, mineral water, natural rhythms, nutrients, nutrients in food, nutrition, nuts, raw, raw food, raw vegan, seeds, superfood, tea, vegan, vegetarian, worlds healthiest diet | 8 Comments

The B.H.K Awards – Top 15 Seasonal Superfoods (Winter)

Posted on February 2, 2012 by leroy watson

Beat those dark winter nights. Blow away those frosty morning blues. Hah! These foods give your body a super kick and are packed full of a feel good vibes. Spring is getting closer, but these beauties will help you across the dark season finish line.

Everybody seems to love a ‘Top 10’. So surely a ‘Top 15’ is better?! I was looking into healthy eating and came across several sites claiming to have the definitive selection of ‘Top 10 Superfoods’. I don’t know who or when the term ‘Superfood’ was created, but I like it. It simply suggests food that is super packed full of goodness.

Superfoods come into their own in the busy modern world, when we don’t always have time to prepare meals. They can be grabbed and munched, giving a nutritious boost. This is especially important during winter when the sun retreats early and the cold can chill you to the bone. It’s a strenuous time for body and mind.

I’ve compiled my own Winter ‘Top 15’ (better than 10) below. The criteria are simple. Is it tasty? Is it also super healthy? Do we eat it regularly? Is it local(ish) and seasonal? I haven’t added things like spirulina, goji berries, wheatgrass etc, although they are very healthy they don’t have the delicious-ness. They are just not your everyday hero.

Our selection will inevitably change towards summer, expect another instalment.

All of these contenders are packed with goodness and if eaten with other healthy bits and some regular exercise, will keep you shining all winter.

15) Red Wine – Dodgy start you may say. Well yes and no. I’ve managed to stem the tide of wine in recent years. Everything in moderation. Grapes provide vitamin C, vitamin B1 and vitamin B6–red grapes also contain powerful phytochemicals (especially phenolics) that may help decrease risk of cardiovascular disease. These compounds are housed mostly in the skin of the red grapes, which gives red wine its colour. Resveratrol, found in the skins of red fruits has been shown to have anti-oxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory activity.

14) Green tea – Not exactly a local crop, but this brew has a serious ‘feel good’ effect in the mornings. Green tea contains polyphenols, which may reduce heart disease, cancer and stroke risk. Green tea also supports brain health and memory, likely due a key compound in green tea called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), a flavonoid. EGCG is thought to boost the immune system and prevent tumors. Aim for at least two cups daily.

12) Whole grains (whole wheat, barley) – Bread and beer, not healthy really, but ever so British. Two of the myriad of uses for the humble, yet essential whole grain. Whole grains help stabilize blood sugar and insulin and may protect against heart disease. They include all three parts of a grain kernel: the bran, germ and endosperm. Whole wheat flour, brown rice and barley are all whole grain foods. Look for the words “whole grain” on the label, and the word “whole” immediately before the name of the grain in the list of ingredients. Contrary to popular perception, the benefits of whole grains go well beyond fiber and fiber’s role in digestive health. Whole grains contain vitamins B and E; the minerals magnesium, selenium and zinc; phytonutrients; that appear to work together in powerful ways.

Panamanian Bean Mix (Good name for a band)

11) Beans – A staple. Anybody who knows me, understands my passion for these little beauties. A fabulous source of vegetarian protein and fibre, two nutrients that help you stay full and satisfied. Important to feel fully sustained in winter. The protein and fibre in beans also tempers the rise in blood sugar that occurs after a meal, which can help stabilize mood. The fibre in beans helps keep you regular. Beans are low in fat and a good source of magnesium and potassium, nutrients that work together to lower blood pressure and keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. Added bean bonus: They’re cheap and when growing add vital nitrogen back to the soil.

10) Pumpkin – Orange veggies are all loaded with Vitamin A, vital in the winter when the sun is so shy. We are lucky to have two different varieties growing locally to give us some variety. Pumpkin is loaded with nutrients that will help your heart, bones, eyes, and skin shining. Beta-carotene and potassium are the two standouts here: Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that helps rejuvenate skin, protect your vision, and may even reduce risk of arthritis. Potassium is a mineral involved in lowering blood pressure and maintaining healthy bones. There is nothing sweeter than a well roasted pumpkin?

9) Oats – Are technically whole grains, but get their own section in these parts. Britain, this windswept little island, has been fuelled on the stuff since early man first landed here. I don’t think any food better sums up our predicament and history. The oats in porridge acts as central heating for your body, one bowl in the morning and you’ll be simmering all day. Eating oats is good for those with high cholesterol. Whole grain oats are one of the best sources of soluble fibre, which, in addition to lowering cholesterol, helps keep blood sugar levels under control. No peaks and troughs, just plain sailing.

8) Olive oil – Reminds me of my other home in Spain. My heart generally resides there, as my body does the rounds. The freshly pressed oils of Murcia are hard to come by here, but with our uber consumerist ways, good olive oil is easy to find. One of the best types of fat you can opt for in your diet. Olive oil helps to protect against heart disease and cancer. Recent research shows that heart-attack survivors on a Mediterranean diet had half the death rates of those on an ordinary low-fat diet. Nice to know. Spaniards do eat a lot of fish, which keeps them healthy, but normally drink like one too. However olive oil is also high in antioxidant activity. Is there nothing this golden amritar is not capable of?!

7) Crucifers (broccoli, kale, cabbage) – This family thrives around here. They are so tasty and versatile. Trigonos (our organic veg farm) grows the finest red cabbage and kale imaginable. In fact, all of their vegetables are rather special. Cruciferous vegetables contain indole alkaloids that may help prevent the big C. They are high in fibre, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Foods from the cruciferous and cabbage family (including broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, collards and turnips) may help bolster memory as you age. Something I need help with right now!

6) Tomatoes – Grown in a local poly-tunnel. We are so blessed to be surrounded by die hard green fingers. These wonderful orbs contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant shown to help stimulate the immune system and protect from certain cancers, especially prostate. Lycopene is more highly concentrated in cooked tomato products including tomato paste, passata or tomato sauce.

5) NUTS (Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pine nuts, macadamia nuts, cashews etcetc)Generally, limit yourself to a handful of nuts per day. But what a handful! Nuts are so precious. They are not local, but are one of our favourite treats. Adding a dose of almonds daily helps the intake of key nutrients, lowering the intake of dietary detractors like trans fats, excessive sodium, sugars and cholesterol. Eating nuts may help protect against heart disease and inflammation, enjoying 11 walnuts daily reduces total cholesterol by up to 4 percent. Walnuts also look like a brain, so are good for your brain (Ayuvedic wisdom). They are a rich source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, as well as a compound called ellagic acid that has been shown to reduce artery-forming plaque. Love NUTS!

4) Leeks – It goes without saying that this gorgeous Allium would crop up. We are in Wales after all. Regardless of that fact, leeks are one of my favourite vegetables. Packed with flavour, vitamins, minerals and flavanoid anti-oxidants. They are low in calories and contain both soluble and in-soluble fibre. They contain lots of folic acid, essential in DNA synthesis and cell division. Vitamin wise the are packed with A (hooray) and C, which not only protects against infections, but also harmful free radicals. Wear your leeks with pride! So much tastier than a rose (not to mention a thistle).

3) The Cuppa (Tea) – Another tea? Why not! The elixir of the B.H.K. Without it, we’d be lost and flaccid. The caffeine content in tea is useful for stimulating alertness, mood and motivation, but is also a rich source of the antioxidant called catechins. Studies suggest that catechins protect the artery walls against the damage that causes heart disease and prevents the formation of blood clots. It also does wonders for the spirit on a dark winters day. Avoid drinking too much milk, try a slice of lemon or drink good quality tea black. It’s one of those things that will grow on you.

2) Dark Chocolate – The finest of news. Believe it or not, chocolate is a healthy treat, as long as you choose wisely. Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, antioxidants that have been shown to lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, and boost overall heart health. Choose chocolate that is at least 70 percent cacao or cocoa to optimize the antioxidant power and health benefits. Dark chocolate may even boost your mood. The rich taste and sensuous mouth-feel of a decadent piece of dark chocolate may be to thank (remember the Flae advert Brits). Just don’t eat a whole bar. Our favourite is Green and Blacks.

1) Beetroot (or beta vulgaris) – King Crimson! The dark purple avenger! Anything that comes out of the dark soil this colour, is bound to be packed full of good. The pigment that gives beets their super-beautiful fuschia depth (betacyanin) is a powerful cancer-fighting agent. Beets’ potential effectiveness against colon cancer, in particular, has been demonstrated in several studies. Beets are also particularly rich in the B vitamin folate (see above) and the mighty vitamin C. If you’re lucky enough, use the leaves. They are higher in vitamin A and anitoxidants than the root. We roast them up, put them in cakes, pickles, pies…..They add amazing hues of purples and pinks to anything they touch (including your chopping board) and generally brighten up any day. Truly our winter king.

So Beetroot is the winner. What drama! I wonder who it will be in the summer (strawberries).

Heart of the 'root

Categories: Ayurveda, Healthy Eating, Healthy Living, Nutrition, photography, Superfoods, Tea, Vegan | Tags: ayurveda, beans, beetroot, caffiene, chocolate, folate, food, fruit, good vibes, healthy living, herbal Tea, high nutrients, iron, leeks, nutrition, pumpkin, superfoods, tea, top 10 superfoods, vegan, vegetarian, Vitamin C | Leave a comment

Morning ‘Steamers’

Posted on January 31, 2012 by leroy watson

My mug

Fresh and clean. These steamers are the perfect way to get the body hydrated and feeling vibrant in the morning and are easier than making a cup of tea.

There must be something in the ether because two friends, Julie and Gwen, have sent me their style of ‘steamer’ through today. I felt prompted to share.

A steamer is basically an infusion of anything with hot water. I regularly used ginger, mint, lemon, rosemary (a little), add a little honey if you’re a sweet one. I would not drink them very hot, let them cool a little, be gentle with your poor old body, especially in the morning.

There is not much to this.

The bits

Your favourite mug that brings you the most happiness.

Choose from:

– A couple of teaspoons of sliced ginger (no need to peel, just wash)

– A nice wedge of lemon (squeezed into water and plopped in)

– A small handful of torn mint leaves.

– A classic. Teaspoon of honey, squeezed wedge of lemon, teaspoon of sliced ginger.

Julie’s Steamer

Add one stick of bashed lemongrass

Gwen’s Steamer

Add one stick of peel liquorice root and a small handful of mint leaves.

Do It

Drop in bits and leave to steam for a few minutes. Then aaaaahhhhhhhenjoy.

We Love It

As Gwen rightly put it, a fresh steamer will beat any tea bag, any day, forever. Viva steamers!

Foodie Fact

There are many health benefits to drinking warm water when you first rise, especially with a slice of lemon in (see the post ‘Magic Morning Lemon Water’). Warm water will flush out the kidneys and prepare the stomach for food by stimulate the glands on its walls, helping the bowels move regularly (hoorah!).

Warm water can be used easier by the body, it’s not such a shock to the system, because it doesn’t need to be warmed up. Drinking water at mealtimes can dilute gastric juices and slow digestion. It’s a good idea to drink water half an hour before eating. Drinking water is different from getting water via food or juice, clear water helps to cleanse the body internally.

The ‘Steamer’ variations are many. Have a play and let me know of your favourites……star anise, sticks of cinnamon, grapefruit juice etcetcetc……….How do you like yours?

I truly believe that after a good stretch, they are the best way to start the day.

If you like this kind of thing, Gwen has a great vegan and freegan blog, have a wee look: http://peasandloveblog.blogspot.com/

Categories: 'The Good Life', Breakfast, gluten-free, Healthy Living, Infusions, Vegan | Tags: B.H.K Favourite, breakfast, gluten-free, healthy living, herbal Tea, recipes, steamers, vegan, vegetarian | 3 Comments

Herbal Teas – The B.H.K Award

Posted on January 26, 2012 by leroy watson

Fancy a brew

We shall start at the very beginning, before there was even light …..(the mornings are dark up here on the hill)…there was tea. Our precious tea box. Bought by my lovely Mum as a housewarming gift and well used throughout the day. These brews and infusions are the life blood of every great bean-bubbler and help to distract me from quaffing too much coffee.

This is an essential survival necessities in this wilderness (and everywhere). Not your traditional British mug (that’s a strong cup of black tea with a dash of milk) which is also amazingly satisfying. We talking now ’bout ‘erbs. ‘Erbal Teas.

Here are some staples that we never run dry of, that keep us full of zing and turgid with hot water and vibrant botanicals.

We’ve whittled the selection down to three heavyweight contenders for the esteemed prize of ‘The B.H.K – Worlds Best Mass Produced Herbal Tea Bag (available in Dimensions Health Food Shop, Bangor, North Wales)’. ***

YOGI TEAS (http://www.yogiproducts.com/products/perfect-tea/)- The largest herbal tea range, at that price. The Classic variety, packed with cinnamon, keeps us warm and full of Yogi love in the mountain gales. Choco is a nice change, they’re all nice really. I’ve never met a Yogi bag I don’t like.

CELESTIAL SEASONINGS (http://www.celestialseasonings.com/) – Seasonings?! We drink their tea by the bucket load. Jane was on a special no sugar diet and the Bengal spice variety is so packed full of carob that we thought we’d died and gone to Wonka heaven. Sweet and spicy. Tension tamer does exactly what is printed on the card, with a lovely minty exotic herb. This American company makes fantastic little boxes of intensely flavoured teas.

TEAPIGS – (http://www.teapigs.co.uk/) – Intense stuff this. One bag is enough for a nearly full red teapot (which is a beast of a pot). It’s more expensive, so a treat as opposed to an everyday quaffer. We love the Heirba Mate, that keeps us charged up, like a caffeine buzz but without that sense of ‘am I getting a headache’. It feels so healthy to sip. The Liquorice and Peppermint is a real winner though. It goes a lovely shade of vibrant green and is potent stuff. Cool little pyramid bags too.

And the winner is…………..’you may rattle your teaspoons now’…………….

XXXXXXXXXX YOGI TEA XXXXXXXXXX Its called Yogi, its cheap (ish) and always hits the spot. The Classic is, well, a classic and I love the little words of wisdom on each tag (the tag on the bag?! Tea bag tag?!). We also cut the used boxes up to decorate christmas cards and other things (friends you have been warned). A versatile all-rounder.

As well as buying bags, we also like to just throw mint leaves, chopped ginger, maybe a couple of cardoman pods or some rosemary into a big mug of boiling water. If you’re a sweet tooth, make it sweet (honey). Experiment with your own infusions.

Heres and interesting blog I’ve just read about all things tea and spice http://www.steenbergs.co.uk/blog/about-axel-sophies-blog/

*** We will be giving out prized like this regularly, because it makes us feel all-powerful and authoritative, when really we are merely two humble bumpkins who view the world with wild-flower tinted specks.