What I find ironic is here I am again trying to lose weight as my New Year resolution, just like last year and the year before that. But this year, it really hit me: I've been doing a new year resolution every year since I've had my kids. I lose weight and then gain it back again. What I've learned from this is if you keep doing the same things you're going to get the same results. From my years of failing to achieve my resolution, I have learned that instead of going on a diet, I really need to change my lifestyle. I'm just like YOU. I have a busy life of being a mom, a business owner and the best darn wife this side of...well you get it. I take care of everyone except ME. I've mastered the art of losing and gaining weight so well that I could put Kristie Alley to shame, but even she has kept it off now!. So this year in 2018, forget the 'resolution', yet again, I'm making a lifestyle change and focusing on wellness. Not what I put in my mouth, but how I live my life. I'm going to reaffirm my spirituality, laugh a lot, cry a little, dance like no ones watching, do more yoga with Essential Evolution Holistic Wellness, stop and smell the roses and in the process if I lose a couple pounds then I'll run through the street pounding on my chest with a two-piece bikini that I haven't worn in years.
Step 1: DETOX, DETOX, DETOX! Fourteen days of no sugar and clean eating, and fortunate for me, I Can't Believe It's Not Coffee detox gently cleanses the liver of daily life toxins (wine being one of them LOL) and it really tastes amazing. There's nothing worse than shoving an intolerable drink down the hatch that tastes like dirty socks all for the sake of dropping pounds. I have regrettably eaten deliciously awful food during the holidays and I need to cleanse my temple, you understand right?. C'mon, who can say no to the ridiculous amount of cookies and sweets that are always present during holiday get-togethers? While I'm on this detox it's important to drink the I Can't Believe its Coffee Detox twice a day and eat organic, clean food. By clean eating I mean salad, fish, veggies, and staying away from sugar, alcohol, and my beloved wine.
Step 2: After the fourteen day detox, drink Skinny Miss Fat Burn Tea twice a day. Skinny Miss is loaded with energy, ginseng, and helps your metabolism. After a sensible breakfast of an omelet and cup of Skinny Miss Fat Burn Tea (no pancakes, bacon, sausage etc.), you MUST drink two cups of water. Drinking water after your tea is necessary because any good flush needs liquids :) . Two hours after breakfast, have a cup of Skinny Miss with a piece of fruit as a snack! Then three hours after that should be lunch. Have a turkey wrap or whole wheat turkey sandwich, or go vegan. Carol D'Anca makes veganism look easy and delicious in her best-selling cook book on Amazon, Real Food for Healthy People. It's recommended to eat every two hours, but I live in the really crazy world where I eat every three hours. Anyways, after a healthy lunch, have a late afternoon snack of tea or water and piece of fruit or 1 oz or nuts. Dinner should be around 6 P.M with a salad of greens and veggies, a piece of lean meat (preferably seared chicken or fish), and one cup of beans. Finish off dinner with a thirst-quenching glass of water. Then two hours after dinner, have another cup of tea. If you are anything like me, you have a massive sweet tooth after dinner so the Sweet Root & Seed Tea is a cup full of love sweetened only with licorice root, because for the foreseeable future, we are not doing sugar! Let me not forget to mention the anti inflammatory cup of gold, the Golden Almond Milk, which is another great alternative for the attack of the sweet tooth! Two hours after that, really??? You aren't sleepy yet? Go to bed.....get 8 hours of much needed sleep, you'll love me for this because your immune system will be rock solid. Part of wellness is making sure your body gets proper rest to recharge for the next day. Now say this with me...this is not a diet....it's a lifestyle change. Helloooooo wellness, here we come!
As I restart my journey, I invite you to go with me. If you are like me and want to be well and not just shed the weight, come with me. Let's start with the detox and together let's be well. Let's nourish our temples because we want to be well and for this we will make time. I am an open book. Let's do yoga at my favorite studio that I never can seem to make the time for (EXCUSE), or that walk in the park that escapes me so often (YET ANOTHER EXCUSE). It's time to connect with our community of wellness folks who for some, have not connected as they may have wanted in 2017 but have an even stronger desire to do so in 2018. We're not perfect, but we're honest and kind and loving and we laugh a lot (mostly at ourselves LOL).
So this is my plan to restart my journey on a path of wellness! And notice how I said restart because, well, as a human, you can fail once or twice, but always try, try, and try yet again.
Complete Wellness Detox and Weight Loss Kit
To get you started on the path to wellness, join us on January 6, 2018 from 10am to 2pm for a Wellness Event at Essential Evolution Holistic Wellness in Highland Park. It's free and lots of vendors (including me) will be there to greet you. Enjoy, snacks, yoga, massage and laughter...all under 1 roof! RSVP at www.eehwellness.com
]]>Ingredients:
4 sweet potatoes peeled and diced
1 onion finely diced
1 red bell pepper
2 handfuls of kale greens finely cut
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
7 cups vegetable stock
3 tbsp Garam Masala Spice Blend
1 tbsp Anti Inflammation Spice Blend
2 cups of canned chickpeas drained and rinsed
Salt to taste
In a large pot heat olive oil until hot. Over a medium flame, stir in the onions and the sweet potatoes and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Next, add the garam masala and the Anti Inflammation Spice Blend mix well so that the onions and potatoes are coated with the spices (2 minutes). Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, add the chickpeas and the charred red bell pepper (see directions for making charred red peppers below). Cover the pot and cook an additional 15 minutes.
Finally, add kale greens and salt to taste. Cover and let sit for 15 minutes for the kale green to wilt a bit.
Charred Red Pepper: simply place the pepper directly on the flame until it is charred on all sides which takes about 6 minutes. Turn the pepper when you see it blistering. Once you have charred the pepper, scrape the really burned parts off and the give it a good fine chop. If this scares you, just buy red bell pepper in a jar (no one is judging).
#vegansouprecipe #souprecipe #fallsoup #spices #garammasala #lovethatspice
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To register or for more information, please CLICK HERE
]]>Location: Love That Spice - 1893 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4658
Date: February 25, 2017
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
BYOB
]]>BYOB - ADULTS ONLY PLEASE.
]]>This has become one of our most popular cooking parties! No cooking experience is needed. We are all closet chefs looking for the next cooking adventure. Relax and unwind and enjoy a Thai night out at Love That Spice. We promise, this is unlike any cooking party you have ever been to. BYOB
]]>Cost of class includes: appetizers, 2 glasses of wine, main course, desert and recipes.
Location: Love That Spice 1893 Sheridan Road - Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4658
Carol D' Anca, Integrative Nutritionist speaks on the epidemic of type II Diabetes and how to prevent and reverse the food borne illness. Join us for her presentation, a cooking demo and the book signing of her just launched book, "Real Food for Healthy People; A Recipe and Resource Guide!"
Book Signing at Love That Spice - CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET - SAVE 50% BEFORE 1/21/16
Date: January 30th, 2016
Time: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Location: Love That Spice 1893 Sheridan Road - Highland Park
Tickets are $55.00 and include the presentation, cooking demo with small plate tasting, wine and appetizers.
SAVE 50% WHEN YOU SIGN UP BY JANUARY 21, 2016
For more information or for questions, please email us at www.info.com or call us at (847) 780-4658.
]]>This class is presented in conjunction with Essential Evolution Holistic Wellness in Highland Park, IL
]]>Cost of class includes a live cooking demonstration, tasting of delicious food, mulled wine, spiced teas, appetizers, recipes and handouts.
Sign up by December 1, 2015 and receive a 15% discount! CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS
Class presented by Carol D'Anca, Plant Based Integrative Nutritionist
Class location: Love That Spice 1893 Sheridan Road Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4658
Class Date: December 12, 2015
Class Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Cost of Class $55.00
]]>Practitioners of Ayurveda medicine (an ancient Indian healing system) have long recommended turmeric for a variety of ailments, including cancer, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, musculoskeletal pain, liver disease, Alzheimer's disease and a host of other ailments caused by inflammation.
The active ingredient in turmeric is circumin and consequently, most research focuses on particularly curcumin.
In case you missed it, here is a breakdown of the results based on scientific research by Assistant Professor of research in the chemistry department at the University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and the author of a 2014 review paper on curcumin. Here is an excerpt from Mother Earth Living, as written by Linda B. White:
“Curcumin has many beneficial pharmacological effects which include, but are not limited to, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anti-cancer, and protection against nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease,” says Debasish Bandyopadhyay, an assistant professor of research in the chemistry department at the University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and the author of a 2014 review paper on curcumin. Here’s a snapshot of the research-backed benefits of curcumin.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA), which results from wear and tear on joints, commonly accompanies advancing age. At least three studies show curcumin products (specially formulated to enhance bioavailability) taken for two to three months reduce pain, improve function and minimize reliance on pain medications. In two studies of knee OA, curcumin worked on par with ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), the overuse of which can cause stomach upset and intestinal damage. Combining turmeric with other anti-inflammatory herbs, such as boswellia and ginger, also helps improve symptoms.
Curcumin also appears to ameliorate rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder. One study compared curcumin with the drug diclofenac (Voltaren) and found curcumin to be more effective.
Cardiovascular Disease
In lab studies, curcumin lowers blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (blood fats); discourages oxidation of LDL cholesterol (a chemical reaction that renders this cholesterol more harmful to the arteries); and inhibits platelets, thereby reducing the risk of clots forming within blood vessels. One study found that taking 4 grams of curcuminoids a day for several days before and after coronary artery bypass surgery reduced the risk of in-hospital heart attack.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Curcuminoids aren’t well absorbed from the intestinal tract, making them potentially useful against bowel inflammation and colon cancer. IBD includes ulcerative colitis (an inflammatory condition of the large intestine) and Crohn’s disease (which primarily affects the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine). When people with ulcerative colitis added curcumin to conventional medication, they extended their time to relapse. When a small group of children and teens 11 to 18 years old with IBD added curcumin to conventional medication, they all tolerated the combo well, and half of them improved significantly.
Indigestion & Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Turmeric reduced indigestion after meals and improved symptoms of IBS, a condition characterized by abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.
Oral Health
Turmeric gels and mouthwashes have been recommended to maintain oral health and combat conditions such as gingivitis (gum inflammation). A mouthwash containing turmeric was as effective as a conventional mouthwash (chlorhexidine) at improving gingivitis and reducing bacterial levels in the mouth.
Diabetes
Curcumin acts in several ways to reduce blood glucose (sugar) levels. In one study, taking curcumin for three months reduced blood glucose in overweight and obese people with type 2 diabetes. In addition, curcumin supplements taken for nine months reduced the risk that people at high risk for type 2 diabetes actually developed the disease.
Infections
Turmeric is traditionally used to fight skin infections and dress wounds. Lab research shows a range of antimicrobial effects. In lab studies, curcumin inhibits a number of bacteria (including Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, E. coli and Vibrio cholerae, which causes cholera); viruses (influenza, parainfluenza, herpes simplex virus 1 and 2, respiratory syncytial virus, human papilloma virus, hepatitis B and C viruses); and fungi (Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida albicans and dermatophytes, a group of fungi that can infect the skin). Test-tube studies show that curcumin has activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and acts synergistically with several antibiotics. It may, however, interfere with the ability of ciprofloxacin (Cipro) to fight Salmonella infections.
Mastitis, or inflammation of the breast, plagues one-third of breastfeeding women. A topical curcumin cream applied every eight hours for three days significantly eased breast pain and redness in a group of Iranian women with moderately severe mastitis.
Psoriasis
In a study of 21 people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis (a condition that causes patches of thickened, red skin with silvery scales), oral turmeric extract augmented visible light phototherapy. In another study, a 1 percent curcumin gel resolved the plaques of psoriasis faster than a conventional drug (calcipotriol).
Brain diseases
Compared with the U.S., the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is relatively low in India (specifically, 4 percent of people 80 years and older in a region of India versus almost 16 percent in northwestern Pennsylvania), where turmeric is a ubiquitous spice. In lab studies, curcumin inhibits the formation of beta-amyloid (a misshapen protein that gums up the spaces between brain cells in AD). Experiments also suggest that curcumin may help protect against Parkinson’s disease and inhibit the growth of brain tumors.
Human brain studies are scarce. In one of the few conducted, a group of people older than 60 with prediabetes ingested turmeric with breakfast and saw enhanced working memory. (Diabetes and prediabetes increase the risk of cognitive impairment, including reduced memory, problem-solving skills and ability to concentrate.) However, when 30 people with AD consumed 2 or 4 grams a day of curcumin for a year, they didn’t get better.
Anti-Cancer Effects
This area is a hotbed of curcumin research. “Curcumin possesses immense anti-cancer effects,” Bandyopadhyay says. “In a number of lab studies on various types of cancer, it prevents tumor formation, growth, invasion and metastasis [spread through blood and lymph].” It also inhibits the creation of new blood vessels that feed the tumor and stimulates cancer cells to die.
Plus, chemicals in turmeric (curcuminoids and turmerones) enhance immune system function. One of the immune system’s jobs, in addition to combating infectious organisms, is to destroy cancer cells.
Lab experiments show combining curcumin with some chemotherapy drugs and radiation treatment improves outcomes. In addition, curcumin may counteract the resistance cancer cells often develop to chemotherapy. Tempering these exciting research findings is the fact that most of the research involves cultures of cancer cells and animals with cancer.
A July 2015 study noted that 12 clinical trials were in progress, mainly in people with colon and pancreatic cancer. Here are highlights from already-published human trials.
In addition to the relative lack of human research, a few other cautions bear discussion. Lynne Howells, a researcher in the Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine at the University of Leicester, United Kingdom, has published a dozen papers on curcumin and cancer. She sums up the research by saying, “Most of the laboratory-based evidence for curcumin does appear favorable, but we do have to be aware that there are limited reports of potential for adverse effects.” For instance, in one mouse study, curcumin promoted lung cancer. However, most other studies have shown the opposite. Howells adds, “As cancer is such a diverse and multifaceted disease, there are potentially some people who may benefit from interventions, and some who may not.” In addition, the ideal dosage isn’t known.
How to Use Turmeric
Topical Uses
For inflamed skin, apply the juice from the fresh rhizome (grate it, then bundle in cheesecloth and squeeze onto skin) or use powdered, dried turmeric to make pastes and oils by mixing it with aloe vera gel or a skin oil such as olive or jojoba oil. You can make a face mask by blending 2 tablespoons plain yogurt with 1⁄4 teaspoon turmeric powder. If you’re dark-skinned, topical turmeric creates an appealing glow. If you’re fair, turmeric might temporarily make you look sallow. You might want to try a test patch before using it.
Internal Uses
Fresh and dried turmeric are key ingredients in many Indian and Asian recipes. Dried, powdered turmeric has a mild taste and can be blended into many foods (even smoothies and—I tried this today—whole-grain pancakes).
For health challenges, Roehrig recommends encapsulated turmeric. Blend 10 parts turmeric powder with 1 part black pepper and pour into size 00 capsules. Start with 1 to 2 capsules a day (1⁄4 to 1⁄2 teaspoon). Build to 2 capsules at every meal.
Most commercial products concentrate curcumin. Take as directed. Because this compound is poorly absorbed from the intestinal tract and rapidly broken down, some manufacturers have devised methods to improve bioavailability. Formulations include combining curcumin with piperine (from black pepper) or a phospholipid (a compound composed of a fatty substance and phosphorus) or even making it tiny (curcumin nanoparticles). Another experimental product allows curcumin to be delivered into the lungs with an inhaler.
Safety
Used as a culinary spice, turmeric is safe. People in India and Asia have consumed it for hundreds of years. Because lab research shows that turmeric can stimulate uterine contractions, pregnant women are advised not to take medicinal doses (e.g., encapsulated turmeric and products that concentrate curcumin). Otherwise, studies lasting up to eight months in length indicate that supplemental turmeric and curcumin are safe. Doses up to 8 grams a day of curcumin cause only mild side effects, primarily stomach upset, nausea and diarrhea.
Check with your doctor before combining concentrated extracts with medications. Because curcumin can counteract high blood sugar, medicinal doses shouldn’t be combined with diabetes medications without medical supervision. Because curcumin inhibits platelets (cell fragments circulating in the blood that form clots), supplements are not recommended in combination with antiplatelet drugs (aspirin, Plavix and others) or anticoagulants (heparin, Coumadin). However, one study found that 2 to 4 grams a day did not alter bleeding times. Curcumin supplements may also affect the activity of liver enzymes that break down drugs, altering levels in the blood. Howells advises people with cancer to be particularly careful and to check with their doctor before combining curcumin extracts with chemotherapy.
How Can One Plant Protect Against So Many Illnesses?
Researchers suspect that turmeric’s potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are the key to its ability to protect against so many diseases. Anti-inflammatory agents reduce the inflammation that occurs as the immune system does its job. Antioxidants counter oxidation, a chemical reaction that generates tissue-damaging molecules called free radicals.
Oxidation promotes inflammation and vice versa. Both accelerate aging and underlie most chronic human diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease.
Linda B. White, M.D., is a freelance writer and the coauthor of The Herbal Drugstore and 500 Time-Tested Home Remedies and the Science Behind Them. The second edition of her college text, Health Now: An Integrative Approach to Personal Health, will be published in January 2016.
I hope you enjoyed this extremely informative article and we are equally excited to read more about Debasish Bandyopadhyay's research on turmeric.
]]>This year I decided to put forth a recipe for a delicious side dish using carrots. Ready for the drum roll? The side dish I chose is from Chabad.org which is a Ginger Infused Roasted Carrot Soup. Carrots are a traditional Rosh Hashanah food and according to Chabad.org eating carrots symbolizes a desire for more good in the coming year. So let's eat carrots, traditional savory braised beef brisket and spiced apple cake with a delicious honey glaze and enjoy Rosh Hashanah with family and friends.
]]>Lean how to prepare common fall vegetables (and in some cases some not so common
vegetables) in unique ways, while also delighting your taste buds with the addition of healing
ancient spices.
Class includes demo, tasting, nutritional guidance and complimentary wine or tea!
Carol D’Anca MS, CNS, LDN, is a board certified nutritionist and a private clinician in Highland Park. She is the author of the book Food not Meds and is currently writing her second book, “Real Food for Healthy People: A Resource Guide.” She is also the founder of The Academy of Plant Based Nutrition and Cooking. Her proven methods have helped hundreds of people learn how to prevent and reverse diet related chronic illnesses.
The Academy of Plant Based Nutrition Offers a Fall Harvest Cooking Class
Date September 30th, 2015
Time 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location Love that Spice 1893 Sheridan Road - Highland Park, IL
Cost $35.00 per person
Questions?
Call @ 847 894 7581 or 847 780 4658
To Register for this class, click on the following link:
http://www.lovethatspice.com/products/fall-harvest-cooking-class
]]>Two Week Weight Loss Series: Support, Education and Results, You Will Finally Understand the Whole Picture about Weight Loss
The series will be held classroom style at:
Love That Spice
1893 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL
(847) 780-4658
Week One: Wednesday, September 16th 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Starting Clean: Getting rid of the toxins in your body that lead to weight gain and cravings; identifying your trigger foods and why you crave them.
Preparing your body to absorb the nutrients you will be taking in; giving your liver a break.
Developing a one week cleansing protocol; tools that can help.
Listening to your body and learning how to pay attention to what it is telling you. Becoming aware of the signals you are receiving.
Developing an eating plan of clean foods you can live with.
Inflammation and how to reduce it.
Facing your biggest time and food prep issues; learning how to overcome them.
Week Two: Thursday, September 24th 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Understanding hormones; which are working against you and how to work with them, which are your friends.
Understanding food addictions and what it takes to break them.
A review of progress and pitfalls – everyone has them.
Avoiding the “pleasure trap” that develops from marketing and lifestyle. Ways to optimize your
efforts. Surrounding yourself with positive energy. Looking at long term. Turning around the complex metabolic functions that become short circuited.
Click the following link to register for this class:
http://www.lovethatspice.com/products/cooking-with-carol-a-two-week-weight-loss-series
“Gut bio” and your brain. Breaking the cycle for life.
847 894 7581 | info@ foodnotmeds.com | www.foodnotmeds.com
]]>
Additionally, Susan Heinemann, Laurie Longfield & Penny Shack with the Juice Plus+ Company will share their personal journeys of improving health with one simple change.
Marlens Jayatilake (that's me!), owner of Love That Spice educates on how to fight inflammation with food and spices. Learn how to spice it up for surprise health benefits and bold and delicious flavors that pop!
The cost of this class is $25.00 and covers food, wine and all recipes.
Date: August 21, 2015
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Love That Spice 1893 Sheridan Road Highland Park, IL
Click on the following link to register for this class:
www.summersaladsandwine.eventbrite.com
For more information, contact (847) 769-3547 or contact Love That Spice at (847) 780-4658.
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Known for her proven method of eating your way to health with delicious and healthy foods, this class will be interactive and fun as Carol shares her knowledge and love of food and the latest emerging trends in nutrition that confirm powerful nutritional strategies exist to prevent and even reverse much of the chronic illness that plagues the Western world today.
Ancient healing spices that are known to fight inflammation will also be the focus of the cooking class.
Cost of Class - $35.00 (covers wine, tea and food tasting)
Class Max. - 35
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2015
Location: 1893 Sheridan Road - Highland Park, IL
Time: 4:30pm - 6:30 p.m.
TO REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS NOW, PLEASE CLICK THE FOLLOWING LINK. THIS CLASS WILL FILL UP QUICKLY!
http://www.lovethatspice.com/products/cooking-with-carol-d-anca-ms-cns-ldn-of-foods-not-meds
]]>Ingredients
1 gallon buttermilk
8 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons poultry seasoning
1 tablespoon black pepper
6 garlic cloves crushed
1 white onion sliced
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Put whole turkey in a large roasting bag (or large deep pot if you don't have a bowl). Pour brine all over the turkey and make sure to take all of the air out of the bag so that the turkey is completely snug and covered. Refrigerate overnight Before you prepare your turkey, be sure to wash off all of the brine and pat the turkey dry.
Need a turkey recipe? Try this one Jazzed Up Turkey Recipe
]]>What makes our pumpkin, chai and masala spice so different? It's simple, we grind fresh, hand-mixing and sifting in small batches to bring you the very best, bold tasting spices that are both nutrient rich and vitamin packed. In giving you the very best, we absolutely never ever add fillers, preservatives or artificial flavors, just the way nature intended. So get out there and have fun with fall but most important, pick up a tin of our popular Pumpkin Pie Spice blend, Exotic Indian Chai Tea Blend or our spicy Bombay Masala Tea Blend and welcome fall! Really love fall gourmet beverages? Try our Gourmet Coffee, Tea & Hot Chocolate Set, you will love the many flavors of fall and it makes the perfect gift too!
Here are some ideas for our Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend:
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Recipe
Pumpkin Spiced Coffee Drink - Sprinkle Pumpkin Spice blend directly on your coffee beans and brew your coffee or just add 1/2 teaspoon of the Pumpkin Spice Blend directly into your cup of brewed coffee.
Pumpkin Spiced Pancakes - Just add 1/2 teaspoon of the Pumpkin Spice Blend into your batter
Pumpkin Spiced Black Tea - Available October 14, 2014
Pumpkin Pie - Substitute 1 tablespoon of the Pumpkin Spice Blend into your regular pumpkin pie recipe for a pumpkin pie that pops!
]]>
Dr. Kevin Fullin MD, has 27 years of experience as an interventional cardiologist. He earned his medical degree at the Ohio State University and has served as Medical Director and Cardiothoracic Department Chair at the United Hospital System in Kenosha, Wisconsin since 1997.
He has special training that has brought him to care for a wide variety of cardiovascular disorders that include coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, carotid & renal disease, congestive heart failure & disorders of rhythm. He has performed over 12,000 interventional procedures in his career.
Dr. Fullin perscribes a plant based diet for himself and urges his patients to do the same. Shedding 60 pounds was just the beginning of the benefits that Dr. Fullin first experienced on a plant based diet. Join us as Carol D'Anca presents this educational event.
Date: Friday, September 19, 2014
Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Location: Community Room at the Highland Park Police Station 1677 Old Deerfield Road, Highland Park, IL 60035
Dr. Kevin Fullin MD, prescribes a plant based diet for himself and urges his patients to do the same.
This presentation is sponsored by Carol D'Anca of the Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease Meet Up Group in Highland Park, IL. There is no charge to attend but reservations are necessary.
Make you reservation today via email at: info@foodnotmeds.com
Questions? Contact Carol D'Anca at 847.894.7581
"Together, we can change the world." Marlena, Love That Spice
]]>What makes a spice blend nutrient and vitamin rich? Well let me tell you. Fresh ground spices and herbs are extremely nutrient rich, this is why at Love That Spice, we grind them fresh daily at our Highland Park store in small batches to ensure optimal vitamins and nutrients. You see, bold and flavorful spices are great culinary tools but equally as important are the long list of health benefits spices and herbs offer. We carry the same spices as many of the top spice companies, only difference is we grind daily with two things on our minds. Those two things are providing fresh ground aromatic, bold and delicious spice blends and in perfect harmony, exceptional health benefits in the form of nutrients and vitamins. Why can't you have both? Well now you can! Many consumers are understanding that the great "American Diet" of over-processed food that are stripped of many nutrients with added fillers and sugars and chemicals that we can't pronounce or even understand are filling our grocery store shelves and eventually our pantries. What we aim to do at Love That Spice is to equip the consumer with the knowledge of what they are putting in their bodies and ultimately giving to our children.
In this series, let me arm you with common knowledge of a few spices that will send your taste buds soaring and your tongues wagging and begin to open a dialogue of cooking with nutrient and vitamin rich herbs and spices and why you should demand that they be ground fresh. Visit us at www.lovethatspice.com and browse our selection of fresh ground spices or visit us at our retail store in Highland Park, IL and let us grind your spice blend right on the spot. Now that's fresh spices, that's Love That Spice!
Healing Herbs and Spices
There’s absolutely no doubt that herbs and spices add distinctive delicious flavors to food. But little do most people know that the red, yellow, and brown powders they sprinkle on their food - not to mention the herbs they cook with - add significant health benefits. After all, herbs and spices come from plants, and many plants, as scientists are learning, contain a multitude of healing substances, often found in very high concentrations in the seeds, oils and other plant parts that make up herbs and spices. Dozens of herbs and spices contain useful plant compounds, but the following 10 I have highlighted are healing standouts that you should have in you spice cabinet.
Contains capsaicin, which is the active ingredient in many prescriptions and over the counter creams, ointments and patches for arthritis and muscle pain. Over time, it short circuits pain by depleting nerve cells of a chemical called substance P which helps transmit pain signals along the nerve endings to the brain.
One of the most powerful healing spices, cinnamon has become most famous for its ability to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. Some of its natural compounds improve insulin function, significantly lowering blood sugar with as little as ¼ to ½ teaspoons a day. Like many other spices, cinnamon has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols. Cinnamon also contains lots of fiber.
Cloves contain the anti-inflammatory chemical called eugenol, which inhibits COX-2, a protein that spurs inflammation (the same protein that so-called COX-2 inhibitor drugs such as Celebrex quash). Cloves also rank high in antioxidants in one study. The combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties spells heaps of benefits, from boosting protection from heart disease to helping stave off cancer, as well as slowing the cartilage and bone damage caused by arthritis.
Coriander seeds have been used for thousands of years as a digestive aid. The herb can be helpful for some people with irritable bowel syndrome, as it calms spasms that can lead to diarrhea. Preliminary test in animals supports traditional use for coriander as an anti anxiety herb. Acts as an antioxidant, though you get the most punch from the leaf, cilantro.
The famous odor of garlic comes from allicin, the sulfur compound believed to be responsible for most of the herbs medicinal benefits. When eaten daily, garlic can help lower heart disease risk by as much as 76 percent. How? By moderately reducing cholesterol levels (between 5 to 10 percent in some studies), by thinning the blood and thereby staving off dangerous clots and by acting as an antioxidant. Garlic’s sulfur compounds seem to ward off cancer, especially stomach and colorectal. Strong antibacterial and antifungal.
Used for centuries in Asia as a digestive aid, researchers today are more excited about ginger’s ability to combat inflammation. Several studies found that ginger (and turmeric) reduces pain and swelling in people with arthritis. It may work against migraines by blocking inflammatory substances called prostaglandins. Because it reduces inflammation, it may play a role in preventing and slowing the growth of cancer.
Mustard comes from the seed of a plant in the cabbage family - a strong anticancer group of plants. Mustard seeds contain compounds that studies suggest may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Mustard also packs enough heat to break up congestion. Like cayenne pepper, it has the ability to deplete nerve cells of substance P, a chemical that transmits pain signals to the brain when used externally.
Like cloves, nutmeg contains eugenol, a compound that may benefit the heart. Medically nutmeg and mace have strong antibacterial properties. Myristicin, the active ingredient in nutmeg has halluctionary effects if too much is ingested. The same active ingredient has been shown to inhibit an enzyme that contributes to Alzheimer’s disease.
Sage
Known as a memory enhancer, sage in some studies, has been shown to protect the brain against certain processes that lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Like so many other herbs, sage has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant as well as anticancer properties.
The spice that gives Indian curry its color, is used in Indian medicine. Lately, turmeric has been getting massive attention as an anti-inflammatory and a strong cancer fighter. The chemical responsible for turmeric’s golden color, called circumin, is considered a top anticancer agent, helping to quell the inflammation that contributes to tumor growth. Lab studies show turmeric helps stop the growth and spread of cancer cells that do form. Studies have linked turmeric to reduced inflammation in a number of conditions, including, psoriasis. In animal studies, circumin decreased the formation of amyloid, the stuff that makes up the brain deposits characteristic in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
“Almost 80 percent of cardiovascular disease could be prevented by lifestyle changes, and amongst the most important of these are dietary changes.”
- Guy Reed, MS, MD, Chief of Cardiovascular Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta
Now that you are armed with a little spice knowledge, go out there and demand fresh spices after all you deserve it! Remember, the fresher the spice, the more abundant the nutrients, vitamins and most important, the unbelievable taste! .
Information, statistics and research excerpt taken from Food Cures Magic Foods to Help You Live Longer, Fight Disease and Lose Weight.
Next Topic - Tea, the magic drink.
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Summertime is one of my favorite times of the year. Spices and teas, have always fit into the summertime equation whether it be a wicked barbecue rub or an ice cold summer tea. If you made it to our Grilling Class last week, then you learned an awesome way to get juicy, bold, "foodie worthy" chicken with a sweet spicy kick using our best selling Pit Master Grilling Rub! You see, with the right cut of meat coupled with fresh ground spices (yes fresh), you're in for a delicious meal and a fun-filled day of grilling with family or friends. If you're feeling adventurous and are ready to grill fish, make a paste with our Island Smoke Dry Rub. Consistently a crowd favorite, this is a no fail blend that makes an awesome presentation whether you grill, smoke, pan sear or slow-bake it!
]]>Summertime is one of my favorite times of the year. Spices and teas, have always fit into the summertime equation whether it be a wicked barbecue rub or an ice cold summer tea. If you made it to our Grilling Class last week, then you learned an awesome way to get juicy, bold, "foodie worthy" chicken with a sweet spicy kick using our best selling Pit Master Grilling Rub! You see, with the right cut of meat coupled with fresh ground spices (yes fresh), you're in for a delicious meal and a fun-filled day of grilling with family or friends. If you're feeling adventurous and are ready to grill fish, make a paste with our Island Smoke Dry Rub. Consistently a crowd favorite, this is a no fail blend that makes an awesome presentation whether you grill, smoke, pan sear or slow-bake it!
Heck, if you want to please everyone, even good ole' "Uncle Bob" make sure you have plenty of Memphis Barbecue Rub on hand with our Sweet Heat Molasses, slow simmered pure molasses based barbecue sauce...your tongue will love you!
Next, let's add premium tea to the festivities and now you've got a party. Summer teas like our popular Apple Berry Tea with real fruit pieces that flavor premium green tea is a perfect selection for sunny and hot summer days. If fruity is not your thing, try our soul satisfying Rooibos Africana Tea, loaded with awesome flavor and antioxidant rich! White Pomegranate Tea which provides a delicate balance of premium white tea with hibiscus, rose hips and safflower. Feeling a little spicy? Try our exotic Indian Spiced Chai Black Tea Blend, a perfect after dinner treat. Take a look at our New Hyson Tea Collection filled with wonderful teas and tea blends delivered to you right from the heart of Sri Lanka!
As the day rolls on, after you've feasted on delicious food, let's not forget the deliciously sweet summer fruit kicked up a notch with our popular fruit spice blend. Try a luscious, juicy mango sprinkled with our Ancho Chili Fruit Spice, blended with ancho chili, long pepper and a touch of cayenne. You simply can't go wrong!
Now get ready for a long, hot summer filled with awesome cookouts and bold spices, barbecue rubs and thirst quenching Ceylon tea! Order up a few barbecue rubs, spice blends and tea today, you'll get a free surprise spice or tea included with your order.
Have a tongue happy, finger lickin' good time with family and friends as you gather around the barbecue pit!
Happy Cooking,
Marlena Jayatilake, The Spice Queen
Love That Spice, Inc.
]]>Oh yes summer is here and what better way to celebrate than having an instructional barbecue class / cookout! Watch as I slow smoke a salmon with our best-selling spice blend, Island Smoke Dry Rub. I will also roast a butterflied chicken using our #1 selling barbecue spice, Pit Master Barbecue Rub. Also on the menu is a delicious "kitchen sink" kale salad fit for a king. Learn how to make a simple barbecue mopping sauce fit for a queen, that will certainly add bold flavor to your barbecue. You'll also learn how to make a wonderful salt-free barbecue rub. Last but not least, I will make my simple low-fat cinnamon spice banana ice cream. The event will end with an open discussion about cooking with spices to enhance everyday foods. This class is FREE and by invite only so call Adrienne Rosenblatt of Love That Spice at (847) 780-4658 to reserve your spot today, don't delay as this class / cookout will fill up quickly.
Spice blends will also be on hand to purchase at a discount. You will also be able to sign up for our Summer Barbecue Spice Club, featuring a new handmade spice blend to be received monthly.
DIETARY RESTRICTIONS WILL BE RESPECTED
The cook-out will be held at one of our delightful customer's private home and the address will be given when you R.S.V.P.
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Tea is the most popular drink on the planet behind water. Not only does tea provide hydration but it boasts an abundance of health benefits. One cup of tea may contain up to five times more antioxidants than any fruit or vegetable. Antioxidants are disease fighting compounds that studies suggest may help prevent certain types of cancers, keep your heart nice and healthy, burn fat and make you feel more focused amongst several other health benefits. Additional studies have found that some teas may help with cancer, heart disease and diabetes, encourage weight loss (green tea/white tea), lower cholesterol and stimulate mental alertness. Not surprising, tea also appears to have antimicrobial qualities.
Here's an amazing fact, according to Fitness Magazine and Diane L. McKay, Ph.D., assistant professor at the Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy in Boston, a study of 40,000 adults found that women who drank five or more cups of green tea per day had a 31 percent lower risk of death from heart disease than those who downed less than one. Other research linked black tea to lower LDL cholesterol. Tea does a body good. "It's also calorie free if you don't add milk or a sweetener like sugar or honey."
Purists consider only white tea, black tea, green tea, oolong tea and pu-erh teas the real deal, as they all come from the Camellia sinensis plant, a shrub native to China and India and contain unique antioxidants called flavonoids. The most potent of these flavonoids is called ECGC.
The more processed the tea leaves, usually means the less polyphenol content. Polyphenols include flavonoids. Oolongs and black teas are oxidized or fermented, so they have less polyphenol concentrations than green tea; but their anti-oxidizing power is still high.
Green tea made with steamed tea leaves, has a high concentration of EGCG, which is known to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system which in turn activates fat burning. Green tea's antioxidants, which has been highly studied, may interfere with the growth of bladder, breast,lung stomach pancreatic and colorectal cancers, prevent clogging of the arteries, burn fat, counteract oxidative stress on the brain, reduce risk of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, reduce risk of stroke and improve cholesterol levels.
Black tea made from fermented tea leaves, has the highest caffeine content and forms the base for flavored teas like chai. Studies have shown that black tea may provide protection to the lungs from the damage caused by exposure to cigarette smoke and reduces the risk of stroke.
Oolong tea, in an animal study, those given antioxidants from oolong tea were found to have lower bad cholesterol levels.
White tea is uncured and unfermented. One study showed that white tea has the most potent anticancer properties compared to more processed teas.
Pu-erh tea, is made from fermented and aged leaves. Considered a black tea, its leaves are pressed into cakes. One study showed that animals given pu-erh had less weight gain and reduced LDL cholesterol.
Herbal Tea
Herbal tea is made from herbs, fruits, seeds or roots steeped in hot water. Herbal teas have lower concentrations of antioxidants than green, white, black and oolong teas. Their chemical compositions vary widely depending on the plant used. Varieties include ginger, ginkgo, biloba, ginseng, hibiscus, jasmine, rosehip, mint, rooibos (red tea), chamomile and Echinacea.
Chamomile tea, it's antioxidants may help prevent complications from diabetes, like loss of vision and nerve and kidney damage, and stunt the growth of cancer cells.
Echinacea is often touted as a way to fight the common cold.
Hibiscus, loaded with vitamin C, a study found that drinking three cups of hibiscus tea daily lowered blood pressure in people with modestly elevated levels.
Rooibos Tea (red tea) is a South African herb that is fermented. Rooibos has flavonoids with cancer-fighting properties.
You may want to incorporate healthy drinks into your daily life to reap the benefits from these health promoting properties. It's time to indulge in the healthy alternative to sugary drinks. Drink up for health!
Always searching for healthy alternatives, we have expanded our tea offerings. As owner and spice merchant of Love That Spice, Inc., it's my life's ambition to bring to you, the healthiest, gluten-free, pure spices and teas available. We're very picky, so you don't have to be. That's my promise to you!
Marlena Jayatilake
Owner/Spice Merchant
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Look for thin white streaks of fat throughout the steak called marbling. This keeps the meat nice and juicy and the fat adds delicious flavor!
Make sure to preheat the grill…..it should be so hot that you can’t hold your hand over it for more than 5 seconds
Put the steak on the grill. Let it develop a seared crust before moving or flipping it (at least 4 to 5 minutes). Moving it too soon will cause the steak to stick and you don’t want to destroy that beautiful seared crust do you?
Let’s do the old school check for doneness. Use your finger press down on steak; soft and spongy for medium rare, medium springs back a bit, well done is firm to touch.
DO NOT OVERCOOK YOUR STEAK!!!! It’s better to undercook your steak because you can always pop it back on the grill. Overcook it and there’s no going back….you can thank me later!
Here is a quick spice rub to get you started on a fabulous steak. Remember, you don't have to be a fabulous cook to make a great steak so relax!
Spanish Spice Steak Rub
3 Tablespoons of Spanish paprika
2 Teaspoons of ground cumin
2 teaspoons of dry mustard
2 teaspoons of ground fennel seeds
2 teaspoons of Kosher Salt
1 teaspoon of coarsely ground black pepper
Pinch of cayenne
ADD THE SALT JUST BEFORE YOU ARE GETTING READY TO GRILL YOUR STEAK
Let's cook:
Rinse your steak and pat it completely dry (so you get a good sear)
Grind your spices (DO NOT ADD THE SALT, IT WILL BE ADDED JUST BEFORE YOU ARE READY TO GRILL, AS IT DRAWS OUT THE JUICES IF SALTED TOO EARLY) in a coffee grinder
Brush steak with olive oil and rub steak with your fresh ground spice rub on both sides and place in a plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. When you are ready to grill, take your steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature (at least 20 minutes)
Grill your steak according to the chart below:
Choose your steak
Porterhouse, T-bone, sirloin, rib-eye 1" thick internal temperature 145 degrees Fahrenheit - 6 to 8 minutes cook time
Flank steak or skirt steak - internal temperature 145 degrees Fahrenheit - 15 minutes cook time
Tenderloin, whole - internal temperature 135 degrees Fahrenheit - 30 to 35 minutes cook time
Checking for doneness
Rare - 6 minutes per side (135 degrees Fahrenheit)
Medium - 8 minutes per side (145 degrees Fahrenheit)
Well done - 10 minutes per side (160 degrees Fahrenheit)
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On April 3, 2014, we are having a special 2 hour workshop for kids creating spice blends. During this hands-on workshop each child will create a spice blend to present as a gift to their parents. Choose from 3 types of spice blends:
Everyday Spice Blends (Ex. Curry Blends, Rosemary Paprika Blend)
Baking blends (Ex. Apple Pie Blend)
Barbecue blends (Ex. Island Smoke BBQ Rub)
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Looking for a unique activity for your children during spring break?
On April 3, 2014, we are having a special 2 hour workshop for kids creating spice blends. During this hands-on workshop each child will create a spice blend to present as a gift to their parents. Choose from 3 types of spice blends:
Everyday Spice Blends (Ex. Curry Blends, Rosemary Paprika Blend)
Baking blends (Ex. Apple Pie Blend)
Barbecue blends (Ex. Island Smoke BBQ Rub)
Tea blends (Ex. Indian Chai Tea Blend)
Cost: $25.00 per child (same family discount of $5.00). Fee includes all spices, spice bottles, snacks and gift boxes.
Time: 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
Location: Love That Spice 474 Central Avenue - Lower Level, Highland Park, IL
Snacks: organic selections - carrots, broccoli, apple slices
Children will have loads of fun and laughter in a warm friendly environment with kid appropriate music and organic vegetable and fruit snacks to share.
Drop your kids off at 9:50 a.m. and pick them up between 12:00 p.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Parents are welcome to stay with their children or get in that well deserved Mommy/Daddy time!
Space is limited and slots will fill up fast! R.S.V.P. by calling (847) 780-4658. We can only accept 10 children at a time. A second class may be offered. Payment must be received at the time of reservation.
PLEASE INFORM US AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR CHILD TO USE ONLY KOSHER & ORGANIC SPICES (A $5.00 SURCHARGE WILL APPLY).
PLEASE CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK TO PURCHASE THIS EVENT:
http://www.lovethatspice.com/products/spice-blend-workshop-for-kids-april-3-2014
"Create a life long love of spices and cooking." Marlena Jayatilake
Love That Spice, Inc.
474 Central Avenue - Lower Level
Highland Park, IL
(847) 780-4658
]]>In case you have questions about steeping your tea, here is my little cheat sheet to go off of:
Steeping Based on an 8 ounce serving
Black Tea 1 level teaspoon - steep 3 to 5 minutes
Herbal Tea 1 heaping teaspoon - steep 5 to 6 minutes
Mate Tea 1 level teaspoon - steep 3 to 6 minutes
Pu'erh Tea 1 level teaspoon - steep 2 to 6 minutes
White Tea 1 heaping teaspoon - steep 3 to 6 minutes
Oolong Tea 1 rounded teaspoon - steep 2 to 4 minutes
Green Tea 1 rounded teaspoon - steep 2 to 3 minutes
General Guide to Health Benefits*
Black Tea - antibacterial, increased energy
Herbal Tea - calming, aromatic, hydrating
Mate Tea - antioxidant, increased energy
Pu'erh Tea - antibacterial, cholesterol management
White Tea - antioxidants, increased focus
Oolong Tea - antioxidant, weight management
Green Tea - antioxidant, increased energy
*Health benefits suggested by medical research and are not intended to treat of cure any disease
Sip tea for life!
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With the holidays right around the corner, its time to stock up on your holiday spices, ethnic seasonings, sauces and spice blends that are sure to delight.
At Love That Spice, we never stop creating spice blends to compliment your cuisine and the holidays.
Happy Cooking from your friends at Love That Spice!
#holidaycooking #holidayspices
#spiceblends #seasonings
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