Plant based for the environment, my health and the animals

Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would go plant based but here I am today, almost five years in!

I always looked down on vegans and vegetarians, making silly jokes about them and then I watched a film called What the health (watch the trailer here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-m8WwSUcUPE

To be honest, the film has some flaws and they are well documented (A good article to read from Time: http://time.com/4897133/vegan-netflix-what-the-health/ but oh boy, did it change the way I look at things!

I felt deceived; I have been lied to all my life! Now was the time for action, so I stopped eating meat, poultry and fish. I didn't do it out of love for the animals but purely for health reasons. Slowly but surely over the last year my eyes started opening to the suffering of sentient beings. Some of my friends turned vegan in the last year and have flooded my social media news-feeds with videos and clips of animal suffering, just so that we can stuff our faces, get fat, get sick and die. And then came the realisation that we as humans are actually destroying our world, our only world, with what we eat! How stupid are we?

After giving up eating animals I started looking at animal derived products in my diet. Then I realised that the diary industry is the biggest culprit. I started trying out all the different varieties of milk: almond, cashew, coconut, rice etc. I finally settled on soy milk. I must say it took some time to get used to but now I cannot imagine having my coffee without it. Eggs were very easy to let go, I have always been grossed out by them and scared that I will find a chicken embryo in my breakfast. 

Cheese has by far been the hardest to give up and I literally cringe when I see righteous vegans dissing vegetarians about their cheese habits. They will come around. I just realised that I do not want to support the diary industry anymore - and so I have stopped. Now I order pizza without cheese because I don't particularly like vegan cheese, and honestly it tastes just as good. Don't knock it till you try it!

Going plant based has made me think of what I put in my body and I have never felt better physically and emotionally. 

Saving the environment through what we eat: 13. Wheatgrass

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at wheatgrass.

Wheatgrass - Nature's Finest Medicine.

Wheatgrass juice is the freshly squeezed juice from young organic wheat sprouts. It is internationally recognised as a superfood, i.e. it contains all the ingredients needed for good health and vitality. It is packed with liquid oxygen and all the vitamins, minerals, trace elements, enzymes and amino acids one requires. Because the structure of chlorophyll resembles the structure of human blood, it is absorbed into the bloodstream immediately. If you cut, juice and consume immediately none of the nutritional value is lost. It is both a food and a medicine.

What does wheatgrass do for you?
* It gives you energy.
* Enriches the blood and feeds the whole system.
* It calms the nervous system, reduces tiredness, fatigue and chronic exhaustion.
* Ensures a smooth metabolism.
* Your appetite is controlled and you lose weight.
* Controls blood pressure and cholesterol.
* Stabilizes blood sugar levels (diabetes is reduced).
* Detoxifies the cells and reduces inflammation from wounds, stomach ulcers, gout, rheumatism, arthritis, osteoperosis, acne, body odours and halitosis)
* Boosts the immune system
* Prevents DNA in the genes from changing which makes it anti-aging.

Freshness & Rawness
One tot of freshly squeezed wheatgrass juice has the same nutritional value as a kilogram of raw spinach or broccoli. The fibrous quality of grass makes it difficult to eat and the most nutritional part of the plant is the juice.
Wheatgrass is also found in pill and powder form but because manufacturing processes uses crushing, freezing and heat-drying processing methods, 70% of the value of wheatgrass is destroyed.

What is inside wheatgrass juice
1. Water - it is the basic substance upon which, and in which all chemical processes take place. All chemical substances are made, broken down and eliminated through the medium of water
2. Chlorophyll - Chlorophyll is the pigment found in plants. It is rich in oxygen providing a boost of energy soon after consumption. It is also easily absorbed into the bloodstream.
3. Vitamins
* Vitamin A is essential for growth and development, good eyesight, effective reproduction, immunity and resistance.
* Vitamin B breaks down carbohydrates to release the energy that food contains. It promotes nerve and digestive functioning and is regarded as an anti-stress vitamin.
* Vitamin C prevents free-radical formation. It also prevents Vitamin A and E from being destroyed.
* Vitamin E promotes repair and healing in the body. Without it we face muscular degeneration of the heart muscles and it is a crucial element in reproduction.
4. Enzymes
Enzymes are formed from a combination of vitamins and amino acids. Without effective enzymes the food that we eat canno get broken down to release the energy that the food contains. Therefore one gains weight.
5. Minerals
Minerals combine with enzymes to break down food for energy. Minerals maintain smooth metabolism, enrich the blood and stabilises the PH factor in the body.
* Calcium for healthy bones and teeth.
* Iron for red blood cell formation and transportation of oxygen from the lungs to the cells.
* Sodium for fluid regulation, relying messages along the nerves and for digestion.
* Potassium is needed for smooth mineral balance and control of body weight and it also contains anti-aging properties.
* Magnesium is important for the muscular functioning. It is also used to clean the liver, kidneys and skin.
6. Trace elements
Trace elements are small minerals needed for optimum functioning. Selenium (wheatgrass contains the most in the plant kingdom) acts as a nerve calment.
7. Amino acids
Wheatgrass contains all 8 amino acids that humans and animals need plus many others.

Always check with a qualified health practitioner if there is any doubt about the use of wheatgrass.

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat: 12. Chia seeds

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at chia seeds.

Salvia hispanica, commonly known as chia, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae, native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala. Chia seeds are tiny black, white and brown seeds. Chia seeds were an important food for the Aztecs and Mayans back in the day. Chia is the ancient Mayan word for strength and these seeds were revered for their ability to provide sustainable energy.

Chia seeds are among the healthiest foods on the planet and only recently became recognized as a modern day superfood. It's remained in regular use in its native countries, but was largely unknown in North America until researcher Wayne Coates began studying chia as an alternative crop for farmers in northern Argentina in 1991. They are loaded with nutrients (and very few calories) that can have important benefits for your body and brain. Chia seeds contain fiber, protein, fat, calcium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, Viatmin B1 and Vitamin B2. Interestingly… if you subtract the fiber, which may not end up as usable calories for the body, chia seeds only contain 101 calories per ounce. Chia seeds are also a “whole grain” food, are usually grown organically, are non-GMO and naturally free of gluten, this means it can be absorbed by the body (unlike flaxseeds).

Chia seeds can be eaten whole or milled, while flax seeds have to be ground before consumption in order to access their health benefits for example. When you're buying chia, both the white and black seeds are good choices. Make sure you avoid the red seeds or black seeds that are smaller than the regular chia seeds. The easiest way to add these seeds to your diet is to add it to everything and anything! The seeds are tasteless so they won't affect the flavour profile of your food, which makes them easy to integrate into your meals. They can be sprinkled whole on top of salads, cereal, vegetables, rice dishes, yoghurt or toast or added milled to smoothies, drinks and baked goods. They can also be mixed with water and made into a gel.

The benefits of adding Chia seeds to your diet
* Chia combats diabetes
Chia is being studied as a potential natural treatment for type-2 diabetes because of its ability to slow down digestion. The gelatinous coating chia seeds develops when exposed to liquids-can also prevent blood sugar spikes.

* Get More Fibre
Just a 28-gram or one-ounce serving of chia has 11 grams of dietary fibre — about a third of the recommended daily intake for adults. Adding some chia to your diet is an easy way to make sure you're getting a good amount of fibre, which is important for digestive health.

* Stock Up On Omega-3
Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, with nearly five grams in a one-ounce serving. These fats are important for brain health.

* Stronger Teeth And Bones
A serving of chia seeds has 18 per cent of the recommended daily intake for calcium, which puts your well on your way to maintaining bone and oral health, and preventing osteoporosis.

* Manganese
Manganese isn't a well-known nutrient, but it's important for our health: it's good for your bones and helps your body use other essential nutrients like biotin and thiamin. One serving of chia seeds, or 28 grams, has 30 per cent of your recommended intake of this mineral.

* Plenty Of Phosphorus
With 27 per cent of your daily value for phosphorus, chia seeds also helps you maintain healthy bones and teeth. Phosphorus is also used by the body to synthesize protein for cell and tissue growth and repair.

* Pack In The Protein
Chia seeds also make a great source of protein for vegetarians and don't have any cholesterol. One 28-gram serving of these super seeds has 4.4 grams of protein, nearly 10 per cent of the daily value.

* Fight Belly Fat
Chia's stabilizing effect on blood sugar also fights insulin resistance which can be tied to an increase in belly fat, according to Live Strong. This type of resistance can also be harmful for your overall health.

* Get Full. Faster
Tryptophan, an amino acid found in turkey, is also found in chia seeds. While tryptophan is responsible for that strong urge to nap after a big Thanksgiving dinner for example, it also helps regulate appetite, sleep and improve mood.

* Improve Heart Health
According to the Cleveland Clinic, chia seeds have been shown to improve blood pressure in diabetics, and may also increase healthy cholesterol while lowering total, LDL, and triglyceride cholesterol. All good news for your ticker!

Chia seeds have exceptional health benefits and should definitely be part of all our diets.

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat: 11. Cashew nuts

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at cashew nuts.

The cashew tree is native to Brazil, where its fruit is considered a delicacy. In the 16th century, the Portuguese introduced them to India (they call them Caju) and some African countries, where they are now also grown. What we call the cashew nut is actually the seed of this fruit. The kidney shaped or crescent shaped nuts have many health benefits. They have a sweet flavor and a plethora of uses in the kitchen. Considered third in consumption among all the tree nuts in the world, they're great when mixed with raisins, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, sunflower seeds, and other nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, to make a fantastic homemade trail mix. Cashew butter is a staple in many households around the world, and they're a crunchy, delicious addition to any stir-fry.

Cashews are the number one crop in the world (after almonds), cultivated in more than 30 countries. They require a hot, humid climate to proliferate, which is why India, Brazil, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Nigeria are the largest raw cashew producers. Cashew plants don't begin to bear nuts for three to five years, and then another eight to 10 weeks is needed to develop them to full maturity. The nuts themselves are hidden, however, inside an outer coating, sometimes called cashew apples - a false fruit, if you will - used for such things as brake linings, varnish, and insecticides. In light of that, it's important to remove this outer layer carefully, because it's toxic. While cashew apples are not appreciated in the United States, they are regarded as delicacies in Brazil and the Caribbean.

Healthy, tasty and filling and with loads of nutritional benefits; cashew nuts are the most consumed nuts in the world. Most people have a misconception about nuts being unhealthy and fatty but cashew is known for its low fat content. Also known by the botanical name Anacardium occidentale, the cashew is a close relative of mangos, pistachios, poison ivy and poison oak.

Sometimes called “nature’s vitamin pill,” cashew nuts, which now rank #1 among nut crops in the world with 4.1 billion pounds produced in 2002 , have been used to promote wellness for centuries.

The health benefits of eating cashews

Cancer Prevention
Cashews are ripe with proanthocyanidins, a class of flavanols that actually starve tumors and stop cancer cells from dividing. Studies have also shown that cashews can reduce your colon cancer risk. Their high copper content also endows the seed with the power to eliminate free radicals and they are also good sources of phytochemicals and antioxidants that protect us from heart disease and cancer. This is one of the major cashew nut benefits.

Heart Health
Cashews have a lower fat content than most other nuts and most of it is in the form of oleic acid, the same heart-healthy mono-unsaturated fat found in olive oil. Studies show that oleic acid promotes good cardiovascular health by reducing triglyceride levels, high levels of which are associated with an increased risk for heart disease. Cashews are wonderfully cholesterol free and their high antioxidant content helps lower risk of cardiovascular and coronary heart diseases. The magnesium in cashews helps prevent heart attacks.

Hair and Skin Health
Cashews are rich in the mineral copper. An essential component of many enzymes, copper plays its part in a broad array of processes. One copper-containing enzyme, tyrosinase, converts tyrosine to melanin, which is the pigment that gives hair and skin its color. Without the copper cashews are so abundant in, these enzymes would not be able to do their jobs.

Bone Health
Cashews are particularly rich in magnesium. It's a well-known fact that calcium is necessary for strong bones, but magnesium is as well. Most of the magnesium in the human body is in our bones. Some of it helps lend bones their physical structure, and the remainder is located on the surface of the bone where it is stored for the body to use as it needs. Copper found in cashews is vital for the function of enzymes involved in combining collagen and elastin, providing substance and flexibility in bones and joints.

Good for the Nerves
By preventing calcium from rushing into nerve cells and activating them, magnesium keeps our nerves relaxed and thereby our blood vessels and muscles too. Too little magnesium means too much calcium can gain entrance to the nerve cell, causing it to send too many messages, and leading to too much contraction.
Insufficient magnesium leads to higher blood pressure, muscle tension, migraine headaches, soreness and fatigue. Not surprisingly, studies have demonstrated that magnesium helps diminish the frequency of migraine attacks.

Prevent Gallstones
Data collected on 80,718 women from the Nurses' Health Study demonstrates that women who eat at least an ounce of nuts each week, such as cashews, have a 25% lower risk of developing gallstones. Therefore a daily intake of cashews is essential.All nuts, including the cashew nut, have been associated with a reduced risk of gallstone disease.

Lowers High Blood Pressure
Cashew nuts lower your blood pressure with the help of magnesium present in them. Cashews are also rich in linolenic acid (LA). LA can effectively lower your blood pressure. This omega-6 fatty acid also has antioxidant properties which defend your blood vessels from free radicals. Increased intake of LA can strengthen your blood vessels, making them more resilient and less susceptible to blockages and lesions.

Helps in Weight Loss
Even though cashew nuts are considered as fats, it contains good cholesterol. So contrary to popular belief, those who eat cashews at least twice a week gain less weight when compared to those who eat less.People who eat nuts twice a week are much less likely to gain weight than those who rarely eat nuts. Cashew nuts are indeed relatively high in fat, but it is considered "good fat." This is attributable to the ideal fat ratio in the nut, 1:2:1 for saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated, respectively, which is recommended by scientists for tip-top health. Cashew nuts contain less fat than most other popular nuts, including peanuts, pecans, almonds and walnuts. They are dense in energy and high in dietary fiber, making them a very valuable snack for managing weight gain. Whether roasted, salted, sugared or covered in chocolate, the cashew nut, often used as a flavorful complement to appetizers, main dishes and deserts, packs a mix of nutrients and minerals not found in many common foods.Cashew nuts do have a relatively high fat content (12 grams per ounce, 2 grams saturated fat), but it is considered “good fat", ideal for optimal health.

Anti-oxidants
Selenium, copper, magnesium etc. act as co-factors for many enzymes.And with a high copper content, too, cashew nut consumption helps the body utilize iron, eliminate free radicals, develop bone and connective tissue, and produce the skin and hair pigment melanin.

Helps Digestion
Cashew nuts help in growth and development, nucleic acid synthesis and digestion.

High in Vitamins
Cashew nuts are rich in vitamins like riboflavin, pantothenic acid, thiamin, niacin etc. These vitamins keep you safe from sideroblastic anemia and pellagra.

Pleasant sleep:
After menopause, these cashew nuts can give you relaxed and pleasant sleep during nights.

Copper for Healthy Liver and Brain
Cashews are one of the best sources for dietary copper. You need this mineral to breakdown the fat in your food. Inadequate copper intake can raise your blood triglyceride and increase your risk of fatty liver and heart disease.
You also need copper for proper brain function. Copper is involved in the production and secretion of melanin and dopamine. Without enough copper, you can develop severe sun burn, chronic fatigue syndromes, depression and other neurological disorders.

Zinc to Fight Infection
The high zinc concentration in cashews gives these nuts powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. There is strong proof that increased zinc prevents microbial colonization, and it is especially active against gram positive bacteria and protects you from food poisoning and gastroenteritis. Having cashews in our diet improves your natural immunities against microbial infections.On the other hand, when you eat foods containing LDL fats (like lard, for example), the liver distributes it throughout your body, often attaching to the cells, which become clogged with plaque.

Provide Necessary Minerals
Cashews can help maintain your body's balance of minerals needed for optimum health, as they are high in mineral content, with copper being the most abundant. A 1-oz. serving of roasted cashews contains 0.6 mg of copper, which is more than 30 percent of the recommended intake set by the Institute of Medicine. Copper is needed by your body for the production of hemoglobin, collagen, elastin and the protection of nerve fibers. Other minerals in cashews include magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, iron, potassium, selenium and calcium. Cashews contain only a trace of sodium unless you purchase salted nuts.Cashew nuts have the ability to filter Sun’s UV rays and protect us from macular degeneration.

Diabetes
Recent clinical trials have shows that cashews and other nuts work with a person’s lipid profile to have a beneficial effect on those with diabetes or at risk for diabetes. And with 37.7 percent of the daily recommended value of monounsaturated fats, cashews can reduce triglyceride levels in diabetics, protecting them from further complications. Integrating frequent nut consumption into your diet, especially raw cashews, may lower the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, the most commonly diagnosed form of diabetes today.

Topical Uses
While the cashew nut is most enjoyed when eaten, it also possesses astringent qualities that are now used in topical creams and gels.
A Philippine scientist who has made a career out of studying the health benefits of cashew nut extract markets the extract in a cream for warts, moles and other skin growths. The Philippine-produced cream is also reportedly effective on basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer.

ENSURE FRESHNESS
Always check your cashews for freshness before you dig in. While cashews have a high amount of the stabilizing oleic acid, a mono-unsaturated fatty acid, they should always be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place. And don’t eat too many at once. Because of their high fat content, over consumption of cashew nuts can cause unwanted weight gain in individuals. The oxalates in cashews can also become concentrated in body fluids, crystallizing and causing health problems in people with pre-existing kidney or gallbladder problems.

With cashew nuts, moderation is key in reaping the health and flavor benefits of nature’s treat.

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 10. Vanilla seeds

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at vanilla seeds.

What is so special about vanilla seeds? I was appalled to read that some vanilla extracts are made from the anal secretions of beavers. I would therefore rather opt for the real thing if I have a recipe that calls for vanilla.

Vanilla comes from an orchid called Genus Vanilla, a vine-like plant that grows up trees. Vanilla pods are the fruit that grows on these plants. It is labour intensive to grow vanilla hence the hefty price tag, close to the price of the spice saffron. Real vanilla is therefore more expensive so that will be your first clue if you have the real deal on hand.

To get the seeds of the vanilla plant is fairly easy: cut into the bean with a sharp knife just below the curled top. Try not to slice through the bottom but only the top half of the bean. Pull the bean apart and use your knife to scrape out the vanilla. Easy as pie!

Not only does vanilla have wonderful flavour it also has some health benefits. Some of these benefits may include: the ability to treat acne, improve hair growth, speed healing, reduce inflammation, prevent chronic diseases, protect the heart, and much more. So bring on those vanilla lattes, cakes, syrups, tea and any other recipe you might be able to get a hold off!

 

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 9. Sunflower seeds

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at sunflower seeds.

The sunflower seed is the fruit of the sunflower. A seed that comes from a plant that is so beautiful is definitely something I would like to eat. The sunflower's Latin scientific name, Helianthus annuus, reflects its solar appearance since helios is the Greek word for sun, and anthos is the Greek word for flower.

Whenever you feel like a snack, a handful of sunflower seeds will take care of your hunger with their nutty taste and firm but tender texture. You can add sunflowers to your favorite salad or add them to burgers and meatballs adding a beautiful crunch and texture. Add some sunflower seed butter to your porridge in the morning, spread it on your toast instead of peanut butter or add some to your smoothie. You can make grain-free muffins, bread or scones. Ground sunflower seeds can be used instead of flax or chia seeds. Mix sunflower seeds with your scrambled eggs - a great breakfast idea or you can just sprinkle them on your cereal.

As a culture we have been led to believe that consuming fat can lead to unwanted weight gain, but consuming healthy fats actually leads to a healthy cardiovascular system, a stable healthy body weight, and reduced levels of body-wide inflammation.
Healthy sources of fats like those found in sunflower seeds are actually the building blocks for cell membranes, allow your body to balance hormones, help to slow down absorption of food during meal time so that we can go longer without feeling hungry, and also act as carriers for important fat- soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Some of the health benefits include
- Anti-Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Benefits from Sunflower Seeds' Vitamin E
- Phytosterols that Lower Cholesterol
- Calm Your Nerves, Muscles and Blood Vessels with magnesium
- Improved Detoxification and Cancer Prevention from selenium (it also supports thyroid function)
- Helps Combat Osteoporosis, Bone Loss, and Muscle Cramps
- Improves Skin Health

While sunflowers are thought to have originated in Mexico and Peru, they are one of the first plants to ever be cultivated in the United States. They have been used for more than 5,000 years by the Native Americans, who not only used the seeds as a food and an oil source, but also used the flowers, roots and stems for varied purposes including as a dye pigment. The Spanish explorers brought sunflowers back to Europe, and after being first grown in Spain, they were subsequently introduced to other neighboring countries. Currently, sunflower oil is one of the most popular oils in the world. Today, the leading commercial producers of sunflower seeds include the Russian Federation, Peru, Argentina, Spain, France and China.

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 8. Maca powder

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at maca powder.

Maca is a potent super root that has been revered for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. It is now prized as one of the most popular of super-foods for its host of micro-nutrients and high concentration of antioxidants. Maca is a plant that grows in central Peru in the high plateaus of the Andes Mountains. It has been cultivated as a vegetable crop in this area for at least 3000 years. Maca is a relative of the radish and has an odour similar to butterscotch. Maca has traditionally been used to enhance fertility and sex drive and it is also credited to improve energy and stamina.

Maca is often touted as a 'superfood' because of its strong nutritional profile. It is high in certain minerals including potassium, calcium, magnesium and zinc as well as some B vitamins including B3 (niacin). Maca powder is also a good vegan source of iron and copper. Copper is needed to help trigger the release of iron to form haemoglobin which carries oxygen around the body, as well as being involved in the production of both red and white blood cells.

The research on maca is limited at the moment, and more trials should be done before any decisive benefits to humans can be confirmed. The fact that it has been grown for more than 3000 years and used in traditional medicine does give one some sense of comfort that it does have some hidden benefits.

Based on 1 teaspoon (5g) of maca a day there doesn’t appear to be any immediate side effects, but always check with your GP first if you are concerned or are taking any prescription medication. High doses of maca may provide too much of certain nutrients and so should be used cautiously if you are exceeding more than one teaspoon a day. Being a cruciferous vegetable, maca powder may be problematic for those with a thyroid problem or on thyroid medication, as it contains substances known as goitrogens which may interfere with normal thyroid function and therefore should be avoided. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should check with their doctor first before consuming maca.

Despite being revered for its medicinal properties for thousands of years, maca root is one of the newest remedies to take centre stage in the natural health community.

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the world through what we eat series: 7. Agave nectar

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at agave nectar.

Agave nectar is a sweetener commercially produced from several species of agave, including the same plant tequila comes from. Most agave syrup comes from Mexico and South Africa. Agaves are large, spikey plants that resemble cactus in both form and habitat, but they are actually succulents similar to the familiar Aloe Vera.  When the agave has grown to 7-10 years old, the leaves of the plant are cut off, revealing the core of the plant (called the "pina"). When harvested, the pina resembles a giant pineapple and can weigh in at 50 to 150 pounds. Agave syrup has either a dark or light amber colour and it’s slightly thinner in consistency than honey. 

Agave syrup is sweeter than honey and about 1.5 times sweeter than sugar. In order to get the weight maintenance balance you need to use less than you normally would. Much like high-fructose corn syrup, it's highly processed before you can add it to your tea, top your pancakes with it, or get it in an energy drink, bar, or other product. "Because agave is less refined than many sweeteners, it is often considered more natural," says Nicole Fetterly, a registered dietitian in Vancouver, B.C. "And it is a natural food, just as honey and maple syrup are." In contradiction to the previous statement, Agave is certainly far less refined than many other so-called natural sweeteners on the market, she adds, including turbinado (refined sugarcane extract) and brown sugar, which is stripped-down table sugar with added molasses. While processing  methods can vary, most involve enzymes, chemicals and heat. People who do not like the taste of honey find agave a more palatable choice. It also has none of the bitter aftertaste associated with artificial sweeteners.

Agave has about 60 calories per tablespoon, compared to 40 calories for the same amount of table sugar. So to save on calories, you'd need to use less, which should be possible, since agave is sweeter. In theory, it's high in fructose and low on the glycemic index, making it a better option for people with diabetes than refined sugar. The American Diabetes Association lists agave as a sweetener to limit, along with regular table sugar, brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, and all other sugars.The fact that agave syrup doesn’t spike your blood sugar and insulin has led many manufacturers to market it as “diabetic friendly."

Liz Applegate, director of sports nutrition at the University of California, Davis, agrees. She says your body doesn’t know where the fructose or glucose comes from, be it fruit, agave, or high-fructose corn syrup; so if you eat too much of it, that's a problem.

Applegate's advice: It's better to choose naturally sweetened items that have some nutritional benefit, like fruit or even a little bit of honey, which is richer in antioxidants than sugar is.Just like most other added sugars, agave offers no miraculous health benefits, Applegate says. It simply adds sweetness.

If you want to switch from one sweetener to another, Applegate suggests instead looking at the overall amount of added sugars already in your day. Some of them are in foods you might not expect. Check food labels, write down everything you eat for a week, and see how much sugar you're already getting.

The Aztecs prized the agave as a gift from the gods (much like they did with chocolate) and used the liquid from its core to flavor foods and drinks. Now, due to increasing awareness of agave nectar's many beneficial properties, it is becoming the preferred sweetener of health conscious consumers.

Agave is ideal for sweetening hot beverages like tea and coffee, and especially cold drinks such as iced tea and lemonade because it dissolves well. It's a direct substitute for maple syrup on pancakes or waffles, or a substitute for honey in baking. 
 
If you prefer a caloric sweetener – be it agave syrup, honey, maple syrup or white sugar – use as little as possible.  If you want to use agave for health benefits I would recommend that you rather cut back on sugars and sweeteners. I have tried it. I stopped drinking sugar in my coffee,  a few months later and I don't even miss it.

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 6. Pumpkin seeds

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at pumpkin seeds.

I just adore pumpkin seeds. These flat, oval seeds are packed with healthiness and a super snack that can easily be incorporated in your diet. And I suggest you do!

But don't make a mistake, the husk-less green seeds you find in your favourite grocery store are not actually from pumpkins, they are specifically cultivated. The seeds are nutrient-rich, with especially high content of protein, dietary fibre and numerous micro-nutrients. They also contain a lot of anti-oxidants to improve your health. But what exactly does it improve?

1. It is great for your immune system. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc something you definitely need more of if you are on a plant-based diet.

2. Heart and liver-health. Pumpkin seeds, rich in healthy fats, antioxidants and fibres, may provide benefits for heart and liver health, particularly when mixed with flax seeds.

3. Restful sleep. Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of tryptophan, an amino acid that your body converts into serotonin, which in turn is converted into melatonin, the "sleep hormone." Eating pumpkin seeds a few hours before bed, may be especially beneficial to help promote a restful night's sleep.

4. Anti-inflammatory benefits.It works as well as some arthritis medicines without the side effects.

5. It is good for your bones. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium, which is important for bone formation. High magnesium intake is associated with a greater bone density and has been shown to decrease the risk of osteoporosis.

6. Diabetes. It helps protect against type 2 diabetes. Low magnesium levels can impair insulin secretion and lower insulin sensitivity and pumpkin seeds can help with this deficiency.

Toast them, roast them, eat them raw, sprinkle them over your salad, use them as garnish for your pasta or soup, put them in cookies and granola bars, add them to your muffin mix or overnight oats. The options are endless but whatever you do - EAT THEM!!


**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 5. Peanut butter

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at peanut butter. 

I remember how my mum used to make us toast with peanut-butter on and man, I just loved it! Nowadays you get many kinds of nut-butters on the market, which is a great source of protein for all the vegans out there. (And those that still ask vegans where they get their protein from.)

Peanuts are quite a sturdy crop to grow. They are cheap, grow easier than other nuts and if the crop fails, the same land can be used the next year or perhaps even in the same year for another peanut crop. There is a great NETFLIX series called ROTTEN, where they talk about how peanuts are grown, albeit they mainly focus on allergies in the episode, which by the way is well worth the watch seeing that many people do struggle with peanut allergies.

So what makes peanut-butter good for your health?
1. Peanut butter provides a good amount of protein.
2. It also has essential vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
3. It supplies all of the three macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein and fat.
4. It is so rich, it can suppress hunger and lead to weight loss.
5. It is great for your heart.
6. It lowers the risk of colon cancer.
7. It helps protect against Alzheimer and memory loss.
8. It lowers type 2 diabetes.
9. It gives you energy.
10. It improves skin health.

But heads up, please consume it in moderation as it is high in fat and will easily cause weight gain if you indulge too much.

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 4. Mint

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at mint. 

I just love this healing, smoothing herb. It is estimated that there are 16 - 18 species of mint and that hybridisation occurs naturally, so there are many other hybrids and cultivars on the market. But they all have that wonderfully distinct minty smell. Mint is a pretty nifty little plant.

The benefits of mint
1. It has one of the highest antioxidant capacities of any food.
2. It contains an anti-inflammatory agent that relieves seasonal allergies.
3. Using mint in cooking can also help reduce sodium intake.
4. Mint water can help soothe nipples of breastfeeding mothers.
5. Mint tea can help relieve a sore throat.
6. It aids digestion and helps with an upset stomach.
7. It can cool the skin inflamed by insect bites or even sunburn.
8. It assists in oral health, and keeps your breath fresh.
9. It's a great room freshener and you can add a few drops of oil to your cleaning agent.
10. It is also a great source of Vitamin A therefore good for your eyes!

Mint is also an easy plant to grow, they thrive in light soil with good drainage. They also require minimal care. Growing mint will keep your yard and garden buzzing with beneficial insects. Mint is rich in nectar and pollen, and its small flower clusters keep these sweet treats easily accessible for honeybees and other bugs. It also deters bad bugs and will even reduce flees in animals.

Be sure to keep fresh minute and essential mint oil in your home for all these wonderful uses. It has been used for its medicinal properties for hundreds of years, and they were definitely onto something good!

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 3. Goji berries

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at goji berries. 

Goji berries or wolf berries are native to Asia. These berries have been used in Asian cuisine and medicine since the 3rd century. China is the biggest supplier of goji berries in the world. The extreme claims made by individuals in Canada and America about the health benefits of these great tasting berries have largely been left unproven and has even led to lawsuits. 

What we do know about these berries are that they contain Vitamin A and C, iron, fiber, zinc and anti-oxidants. These are all things I want in my body and it's a natural product - how bad can it be for you? And here is the great thing about these little red diamonds, there are no known side effects or adverse reactions in healthy people. 

These little versatile berries can be used as tea, sprinkled over your breakfast and included in trail mixes and granola bars. So I will not make any health claims here about these snack-able treats but simply say they are delicious and harmless! I got a mine from a zero-waste store, let me know where you get yours!

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Lamma Blooms

I sincerely wish we could take more care of our planet, there is so much beauty in it and climate change (caused by us) is threatening it all. Spending time in nature is one of the most awesome ways of reconnecting and understanding that we are living on this earth with other living things. We are not here to dominate everything.

 

Singapore Daisy (Sphagneticola Tribolata)

Lamma Island, situated to the south west of Hong Kong island, is the third largest island of Hong Kong, at only 7km long. A trip to Lamma island introduces one to the quirky world of mostly expats and great restaurants with good vegan and vegeterian options. Just a 30 minute ferry ride from Central, you can choose to spend a day in Lamma or stay overnight, there are a few good hostels / Airbnbs. 

Black-eyed Susan (Thunbergia Alata) 

A must do on Lamma island is to explore the miriad of hiking trails. On a trip like this, you can expect to find the most amazing flowers littering the pathways, be sure to stop and explore! 

   

  Shrub Verbena or Wild Sage (Latana camara)

 I am most definitely not a flower expert, but identified those I could find. 

Canna Coccinea Plant 

Shrubby Groundsel (Senecio lanibracteus)

 

Spider Hibiscus (Hibiscus Schizopetalus)

Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia Milii)

Ulam Raja (Cosmos Caudatus)

Baccharis

 

Holmskiolda Sanguinea

Morning Glory before opening

  

Morning Glory (Ipomoea)

    

In addition to all the exquisite flowers, if you look closely you will see the weirdest little shrubs and odd plants

             

             

             

   

And if you are lucky you might even spot a cute little bee bum ... 

... or a beautiful butterfly.

               

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 2. Hemp protein powder

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at hemp protein powder. 

Humans have been cultivating and using hemp for thousands of years, possibly dating back to before 10,000 BC. Hemp protein powder is made by grinding hemp seeds into a fine powder. To find the highest quality product look for cold-pressed seeds, as heat processing can reduce digestibility. However it is still easier digestible than animal-based proteins this means your body can absorb all the good stuff and use it to make you healthier and builds a strong immune system..       

It has an earthy, nutty taste and I enjoy adding it to my smoothies. But you can also add it into a variety of recipes like brownies, protein bars, pancakes, açaí bowls and more. As with everything in life, don't consume too much too quickly as you might encounter stomach troubles. But if you are vegan, this is the perfect protein for you!

It contains all nine essential amino acids as well as fiber, anti-oxidants, magnesium, iron and omega fatty acids. What makes it the best in plant-based proteins is the high concentration of fiber that will improve your gut-health.

Some may be concerned that because hemp is derived from the marijuana plant that it will make you high, but a quick google will allay your fears.  

**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.  

Saving the environment through what we eat series: 1. Hemp seeds

One of the first and best ways to help the environment is to go vegan. What you put in your body is not only critical to living a healthy life but can be critical to save the planet too. Let's have a look at hemp seeds. 

Hemp (from Old English hænep) is a commonly used term for high growing varieties of the Cannabis sativa L plant. While hemp is commonly confused with marijuana, as it belongs to the same family, the two plants are quite different. Most notably is the level of THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Hemp contains less than 1% of the psychoactive drug while marijuana contains up to 20% or more. Hemp thrives nearly anywhere, tolerating a variety of growing conditions. It's rarely affected by pests or disease, making hemp quite hardy. While hemp seeds are grown in many parts of the world, its major producers include Canada, France, and China. Hemp has been prohibited from cultivation in the United States since about 1950. Despite its value, the U.S. government doesn't recognize the differences between industrial hemp and marijuana. In fact, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, or DEA, classifies all varieties of Cannabis as marijuana, making industrial hemp just as illegal regardless of its use.

Hemp is refined into products such as hemp seed health foods, hemp oil, wax, biodegradable plastics, resin, rope, body products, clothing, pulp, paper, textiles and fuel. Hemp seeds have been used in bird seed mix as well. A survey in 2003 showed that more than 95% of hemp seed sold in the EU was used in animal and bird feed. Oil extracted out of hemp seeds can also be used as an ointment to regenerate and nourish the skin. Hemp oil can penetrate the skin quickly compared to other oils. This helps in preventing skin from sagging due to aging as essential fatty acids completely penetrate the outer skin layer, thereby, encouraging healthy moist skin. Eating hemp seeds in any form could aid, if not heal, people suffering from immune deficiency diseases. This conclusion is supported by the fact that hemp seed has been used to treat nutritional deficiencies brought on by tuberculosis, a severe nutrition blocking disease that causes the body to waste away. If you want to keep your heart healthy, you should try and consume a lot of hemp seeds, as they are rich in essential fatty acids. You can reduce the chances of a fatal cardiac arrhythmia or a heart attack if you substitute saturated fats with foods like hemp seeds, as they contain healthy fats. Moreover, it produces phytosterols, which help in reducing the amount of cholesterol in the body, thereby removing fat buildup in the arteries.

Hemp seeds can be eaten raw, ground into a meal, sprouted, made into hemp milk (akin to soy milk), prepared as tea,and used in baking. Products include cereals, frozen waffles, hemp milk ice cream, hemp tofu, and nut butters. A few companies produce value added hemp seed items that include the seed oils, whole hemp grain (which is sterilized by law in the United States, where they import it from China and Canada), dehulled hemp seed (the whole seed without the mineral rich outer shell), hemp flour, hemp cake (a by-product of pressing the seed for oil) and hemp protein powder.

Technically, hemp “seeds” are really not seeds at all, they are actually a fruit. Tiny and round, sort of like itty bitty sunflower seeds, they have a pleasing, mild and slightly nutty flavor. Unlike sunflower seeds they aren’t crunchy but instead are a bit more like sesame seeds, but even softer in texture. Hemp seeds sort of taste like pine nuts, but have an even mellower, milder flavor. Because hemp seeds have such a milk unobtrusive flavor, they keep a low profile and can easily hide out in a wide number of dishes. Smoothies seem to be the easiest way to sneak it into your diet and it works extremely well in soup and oatmeal, or you can simply sprinkle them on your salad. As of 2011, hemp seeds are not known to cause any interactions with common medications, but you should talk to your doctor or naturopath about any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking before adding hemp seeds to your diet.

Hemp is an incredible vegan source of biologically available and easily digested protein which helps in strengthening the immune system. 3 tablespoons of hemp seed is the equivalent of 11g of protein! This source of protein will not cause bloating or gas like some other proteins does. If you are allergic to soy, hemp is a great alternative. (Soy contains high amounts of phytic acid that prevents your body from absorbing minerals) It contains all 10 essential amino acids. It also contains a healthy anti-inflammatory 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fat. This won't help you correct your omega balance if it's off but it gives you the right balance to start with. In this ratio is an especially beneficial type of omega-6 fat called GLA. Hemp might be the only edible food source of this anti-inflammatory building block. GLA is extremely important for achieving optimal health.
Hemp seeds are also rich in disease-fighting, plant-based phytonutrients and anti-aging antioxidants such as vitamin E. It provides a rich array of minerals including zinc, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and iron.The richest known source of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids.


Hemp should be on everyone's "must-eat" list of healthy foods. By simply incorporating hemp seeds into your diet on a regular basis you can be sure of achieving optimal health. Consuming hemp seeds is absolutely safe and there are no known side. However, you should always remember that excess of anything is bad, so make sure that you consume just enough so as to give you a healthy body. Hope, after reading all the hemp seeds health benefits, you would take good care of your health and start consuming hemp seeds even if you don't like them. Look for shelled hemp seeds in the refrigerated section of natural food stores. Since the oils in hemp seeds can quickly go rancid, they are best kept cool and used quickly. Heating hemp seeds will destroy the nutritional benefits of the fatty acids, so add hemp seeds to foods after cooking.


**Saving the environment through what we eat series was written to inspire people to change their eating habits in order to save the environment and the world we live in from climate change. Eating more plant-based foods can stop deforestation, soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions, help slow climate change and secure global food supply.