tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28631177078275916882024-03-13T22:59:23.920-07:00The Reconstructed CarnivoreAn open forum to discuss health and wellness under the watchful eye of a former junk food enthusiast. Let's have fun and learn from each other!Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-13114544585253128532012-10-17T15:33:00.000-07:002012-10-17T15:33:55.635-07:00What About Your Protein?I'm sure any vegetarian or vegan will attest that the question we are asked most frequently is:<br />
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<b>"If you don't eat meat, then how do you get protein?"</b><br />
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After a while, I begin to feel like a broken record as I explain that protein is not only found in meat but in nuts, beans, leafy greens, etc. But then I always remind myself that for as long as I can remember, I also thought that meat was the place I could get the highest amounts of protein. When I needed to gain muscle mass for a show, I would eat copious amounts of packaged turkey, canned tuna, and burgers. And then I learned that it's not just *how much* protein you put into your body but *what kind* that makes the biggest difference. Processed meats will not give you the same kind of protein than protein found in plants.<br />
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So, my wife was reading the only magazine we subscribe to, Veg News, when she passed this article along to me. It is written by Julieanna Hever, the resident Veg News Nutritionist. It is factual, concise, and debunks three of the biggest myths about attaining protein. Please take a minute to read and maybe some of your questions about protein in a plant-based diet will be answered.<br />
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I have also posted a new poll below. Please take a second to weigh in. And also, as always, please take a minute to become a follower, tell your family and friends, and keep educating yourselves about what you put into your bodies.<br />
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3 Myths About Protein and a Plant-Based Diet</h1>
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By <a href="http://vegnews.com/author.do;jsessionid=F275F505DB78E1ABF07E143CF1727FE9?author=Julieanna+Hever" style="color: #b00269; text-decoration: none;">Julieanna Hever</a> | July 23, 2012</div>
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Resident VN nutritionist Julieanna Hever sets the record straight on plant-based protein.</div>
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The first question I am often asked when discussing a whole-food, plant-based diet is, “Where do you get your protein?” Protein has become widely recognized as a miracle macronutrient that, apparently, is challenging to acquire in effective doses. However, this is far from accurate. Let’s clear up three of plant-powered protein's three most-common misconceptions.</div>
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<strong style="margin: 8px 0px 10px;">Myth #1: The More Protein, The Better</strong><br />
Humans do indeed require protein, as it is one of the three macronutrients we need to attain from our diet. Protein is involved in virtually all of the body’s structural and functional mechanisms. All of our cells contain protein and it constitutes the building blocks of muscles, hair, nails, organs, skin, tendons, ligaments, enzymes, membranes, some hormones, hemoglobin, antibodies, enzymes, and much more. However, just because something is critical doesn’t mean that more is better. In fact, when it comes to protein, consuming an excess of what we need may promote disease.</div>
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The US Department of Agriculture’s Recommended Daily Allowance for protein is 0.7 grams per kilogram bodyweight per day for adults older than 19 years of age. For an average 130-pound female, that means 47 grams of protein per day. For a 170-pound male, 62 grams is recommended. Many people are consuming approximately 20 to 30 percent of their calories from protein, which equals 90 to 135 grams of protein on an 1,800-calorie diet (typical female intake) and 125 to 188 grams of protein on a 2,500-calorie diet (average male intake). This is equivalent to two to three times more than the USDA recommendations. Much of this excess protein comes from animal sources, which may be particularly damaging. Excess protein taxes the kidneys, contributes to gout, and is associated with an increased risk for many chronic diseases.</div>
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<strong style="margin: 8px 0px 10px;">Myth #2: “Complete Proteins” are Hard to Find</strong><br />
The other popular misconception is that animal products are the best source of protein. One important reason this myth has been perpetuated is because the amino acids—the building blocks of protein—are assembled in a way in animal foods that more closely resembles what humans actually utilize. However, we now know that this is inconsequential. When you consume any protein, it is broken down via digestion into its separate amino acid constituents and is pooled in the blood for further use. When the body needs to construct a protein for an enzyme or to repair muscles tissue, it collects the necessary amino acids and strings them back together in the sequence appropriate for what it is currently creating. This occurs regardless whether you consume animal or plant protein. </div>
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If you eat a variety of whole plants, you will easily attain all of the essential amino acids necessary to sustain proper metabolism and to thrive. Plus, plant protein is perfectly packaged along with an abundance of phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber—all critical components for optimal health and disease prevention. On the contrary, animal protein is wrapped up with unhealthy saturated fat and dietary cholesterol. Animal products are also devoid of phytonutrients, antioxidants, and fiber, and are very low in most vitamins in minerals.</div>
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<strong style="margin: 8px 0px 10px;">Myth #3: The More Active You are, the More Protein You Need</strong><br />
Humans need about 10 percent of calories from protein. Virtually all whole plant foods contain at least this amount, so if you consume enough volume and variety of whole plant foods, your protein requirement will easily be met. This applies to athletes too, who are often thought to require larger amounts of protein to sustain muscle size and optimize performance. However, athletes have increased overall calorie requirements, so when they boost their intake of whole plant foods, they automatically meet their greater need for all of the macronutrients, including protein.</div>
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When it comes to protein, it is not about consuming as much as we can, but rather consuming the right amount. Whole plant foods, as provided in nature, offer the ideal amount of protein necessary for growth, maintenance, and functioning of metabolic processes.</div>
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Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-50340947256555646562012-09-06T13:43:00.001-07:002012-09-06T13:43:34.637-07:00Who Doesn't Want You To Know What's In Your Food?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I woke up this morning to an article that a friend posted from the News Review in Sacramento. The article begins:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>"The Cornucopia Institute, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit organization dedicated to 'Promoting Economic Justice for Family Scale Farming,' as its motto puts it, recently came out with a detailed report that reveals which corporations have joined biotech giant Monsanto and industry leaders in fighting California’s Proposition 37, which would mandate labeling of genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, on food and other products.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The report reveals that Horizon, Silk, Kashi, Cascadian Farm, R.W. Knudsen Family and others are working to defeat the ballot measure."</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Wait a minute. The last time I checked, I saw a carton of Horizon milk with a smiling cow on the front with big letters reading ORGANIC. Riddle me this: if your product is "organic", why would you have any issue with other companies labeling their products if they contain genetically modified organisms? Ponder that while you read the next part of the article:</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"As the report pointed out, 'mandatory labeling of genetically engineered food in California is viewed as a watershed event by many industry observers.' But companies are balking at the prospect of labeling GMOs, mostly because, as the report states, 'many companies will find it logistically or economically difficult to produce foods with labels identifying GE for California while producing a different product line of foods for the rest of the country.'</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It will cut into their bottom line, their profits, in other words."</span></b><br />
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Finally, the truth comes out (not that we are surprised). It's not about providing quality food for the country. It's not about the responsibility to our citizens to keep them healthy. And don't try to tell me it's "economically difficult" to produce food while telling people exactly what's in it. It's about the Benjamins. Always has been. Always will be.<br />
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Let's look at some of the companies that are giving, in a BIG WAY, so that you can stay in the dark and their profits can continue to rise:<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"Of the <u>$23.5</u> million donated so far to fight Prop. 37, here is the breakdown, by brand/corporation, according to the Cornucopia Institute:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Monsanto has doled out <u>$4,208,000</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- PepsiCo (parent company of Izze Beverage Company and Naked Juice Company), <u>$1,716,300</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Coca-Cola (Honest Tea, Odwalla, Simply Orange Juice Company), <u>$1,164,400</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- ConAgra (Alexia, Lightlife), <u>$1,076,300</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Kellogg Company (Kashi, MorningStar Farms, Gardenburger, Bear Naked), <u>$632,500</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- General Mills (Cascadian Farm, Muir Glen, Lärabar), <u>$520,000</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Smucker’s (R.W. Knudsen, Santa Cruz Organic), <u>$387,000</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Dean Foods (Horizon, Silk), <u>$253,000</u></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Additionally, the Council for Biotechnology Information—which is made up of agricultural-pesticide giants Monsanto, DuPont, Syngenta, Dow AgroSciences, Bayer CropScience and BASF Plant Science—and the Grocery Manufacturers Association each have donated $375,000. And the Biotechnology Industry Organization has put in $250,000 toward trying to make sure Californians do not have access to accurate labeling of the food they buy, as far as GMO content goes."</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Surprised to see some of those names such as Naked Juice, Odwalla, Kashi, MorningStar, Horizon, etc.? I was. Until I read the names next to them. When you're in bed with Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Kellogg, and General Mills, you're sleeping with some powerful people. And those big time companies are not going to want to jeopardize the booming empires that they've built and ridden like golden chariots for too many years. There is no way they will sacrifice millions upon millions of dollars for your piece of mind. To quote one of my favorite movies:</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Rocky Balboa - "<span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20;">You hang out with nice people, you get nice friends. You hang out with </span><a alt="Smart Data Recovery" href="http://www.smartmediarecovery.net/" style="background-color: transparent; color: #231f20; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">smart</a> <span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20;">people, you get </span><a alt="Smart Data Recovery" href="http://www.smartmediarecovery.net/" style="background-color: transparent; color: #231f20; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">smart</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #231f20;"> friends. You hang out with yo-yo people, you get yo-yo friends. It's simple mathematics."</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Meanwhile, there are high-profile natural and organic brands who’ve given to Yes on 37, including:</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"- Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps All One! soaps</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Nature’s Path Organic cereals</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Richvale-based Lundberg Family Farms rice</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Nutiva coconut and hemp oils</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Organic Valley milk</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Amy’s Kitchen frozen meals</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Eden Foods</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Baby’s Only Organic baby formula</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Straus Family Creamery dairy</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">- Uncle Matt’s Organic juices.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Collectively, along with Illinois physician Dr. Joseph Mercola, Organic Consumers Association and Michael Funk, CEO of United Natural Foods Inc., they have donated $2.6 million toward the support of Prop. 37. But it’s a far cry from the big money donated by big corporations such as Monsanto, PepsiCo and Kellogg."</span></b><br />
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<span style="color: black; text-align: -webkit-auto;">It makes me livid that these multi-billion dollar corporations are trying to block a ballot mandating food companies to simply tell consumers when there is genetically modified material in their products. I am sick of being lied to! Don't we deserve to know what's in our food, thereby know what we are putting into our bodies and our children's bodies? If, after knowing, you still choose to eat the food, that's your call - I'm not telling you what or what not to eat. I just want people to know the truth so they can make an educated decision rather than eating what we are used to, what is easy, and/or what tastes good, regardless of the consequences. Do your research and make a statement with your dollar. If not for your health (translation - if you really don't care what is in your food, as long as it tastes good), then to let people know that you deserve to know the truth.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; text-align: -webkit-auto;">***On a side note, I want to acknowledge the loss of actor, Michael Clarke Duncan (<i>The Green Mile, The Whole Nine Yards, Armageddon, </i>etc.). He was a wonderful performer and, from what I understand, an even better person. However, it makes me wonder. He was also a VERY large man who had two massive heart attacks that killed him at the ripe age of 54. It shouldn't have had to happen. Too many large performers (John Candy, for example) stay large because that is how the industry knows them. It's what helped build their careers. But it may have cost them their lives. Just a thought.***</span></div>
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Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-16371208543433089562012-07-24T17:10:00.000-07:002012-07-24T17:10:18.389-07:00Guest Post: Cancer NutritionHello, everyone. I hope you all have had a wonderful and prosperous first half of 2012!<br />
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I must first apologize for my lengthy absence. As is sometimes the case, life gets in the way and we are not able to stay on top of all the projects about which we are so passionate. In my case, I was working in an out-of-town location with very limited internet access. Please accept my apologies and let us move on with the task at hand.<br />
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About a month ago I received an e-mail from a very passionate young lady. She mentioned to me that she had recently stumbled across the blog and asked if I allowed guest posts. I had honestly never considered it before but figured it would be a wonderful way to encourage others to comment, post, and discuss the benefits of healthy eating. She has since sent me a short article that she has written about "how beneficial eating healthy and living a healthy lifestyle is for someone going through the battle of cancer". This is a subject that is near and dear to my heart in many ways so I was happy to oblige. Remember, there is a great deal of research on this topic and this is only a drop in the ocean of what can be learned. I strongly encourage everyone to do their own research and please feel free to bring your findings to this open forum so that we all might benefit. I will be doing the same and plan on adding a plethora of information as well. As always, thank you for reading, tell your friends, become a Follower, and Comment!<br />
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***Please keep in mind that this article was written by someone who is trying to help and educate us all. I encourage you to comment and discuss but I ask you to show respect to the author. Thanks!***<br />
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Superfruits and Other Tips for Cancer Nutrition</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
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</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Due to the
prevalence of cancer today, a lot of people find it hard to trust the foods
that most people consume in fear of their association with cancer.
Unfortunately, the best-tasting foods are not always the most nutritious ones,
and some can do the body more harm than good.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
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</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">While foods
may not directly cause cancer, they can certainly contribute to its development
and progression. On the other hand, some foods may prevent certain cancers or
alleviate symptoms and side effects as they fight the disease.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
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</span><i><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Superfruits
and Cancer</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
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</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Superfruits
are good examples. Superfruits are powerhouse fruits that combine important
nutrients, antioxidants and great taste for excellent health benefits. Some
superfruits are common everywhere, while others are specific to certain parts
of the world.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Vitamins,
minerals, antioxidants and fiber are common nutrients in all superfruits. A few
of these foods are especially advantageous for their cancer-fighting
properties. Acai berry, avocado, blueberry, dragonfruit, grapes, mango and
pomegranate are some of the best anti-cancer fruits around.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Superfruits
and other healthy foods are not a cure-all for cancer, whether it is
mesothelioma, breast cancer or any other type. However, cancer patients can
certainly benefit from eating a diet rich in these types of foods. Healthy
eating has benefits for all patients, whether they are going through cancer
treatment or a time of remission.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<br />
</span><i><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Energy
Balance and Cancer</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">A healthy
diet is a crucial component of</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt; text-decoration: none;"> </span><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;"><a href="http://cancercontrol.cancer.gov/energy_balance/overview.html">energy balance</a></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">, says the National
Cancer Institute (NCI). As one of the United States National Institutes of
Health, the NCI has conducted extensive research on energy balance and how it
affects the lives of cancer patients. Along with body weight, body composition
and exercise, diet may alter the cancer process for good or bad. A healthy diet
helps people feel better, even during cancer, and improves quality of life.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">According
to researchers, the best foods for preventing and fighting cancer are
plant-based foods: fruits and superfruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and
nuts. Plants have less fat that animal-based foods. Additionally, they contain
more fiber and cancer-fighting agents. These three nutritional components work
together to support immune system functioning to fight cancer, illness and
infection.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;">Of course,
people with different cancers have different nutritional requirements.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt; text-decoration: none;"> </span><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;"><a href="http://www.mesothelioma.com/treatment/alternative/nutritional-resources.htm">Nutrition for mesothelioma</a></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt;"> patients may look different from that of breast cancer or
pancreatic cancer. Doctors, dietitians and other members of a cancer care team
can work with patients to develop a healthy diet that meets their nutritional
needs.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-45155543268315847822011-10-24T14:55:00.000-07:002011-10-24T15:01:51.493-07:00"The Last Poultry Farmer" Tells It Like It IsIn my last post (which was, unbelievably, two months ago), I posted a clip with the brilliant author and conscious eating enthusiast, Jonathan Safran Foer. I am still currently reading his book, <u style="font-weight: bold;">Eating Animals</u> when I came across a section called "I Am The Last Poultry Farmer". This chapter is about a man named Frank Reese, a lifelong poultry farmer and bird lover (<a href="http://www.goodshepherdpoultryranch.com/index.html">www.goodshepherdpoultryranch.com/index.html</a>). I'll skip the sermon about how he prides himself on being the last poultry farmer to actually let his birds run free (unlike self-professed "cage free" farms) and exercise without the restraints of wing-clipping and de-beaking. I'll get right to the reason I wanted to mention him in this post. This is Frank Reese himself explaining, in layman's terms, the health risks involved in eating meat today:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Just the other day, one of the local pediatricians was telling me </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>he's seeing all kinds of illnesses that he never used to see. Not </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>only juvenile diabetes, but inflammatory and autoimmune diseases </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>that a lot of the docs don't even know what to call. And girls are going </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>through puberty much earlier, and kids are allergic to just about everything, </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>and asthma is out of control. Everyone knows it's our food. We're messing </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>with the genes of these animals and then feeding them growth hormones </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>and all kinds of drugs that we really don't know enough about. And then </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>we're eating them. Kids today are the first generation to grow up on this </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>stuff, and we're making a science experiment out of them.</b></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Being someone who's eaten tons of meat his whole life and someone who would like to start a family in the not-too-distant future, I've thought about this paragraph for a few weeks now. I haven't even read past this section of the book in that time because I keep coming back to this one chunk. Drugs are given to these animals so that they grow bigger and more quickly than ever before. They are enormous by the time they are thirty-nine days old and are then killed, processed, sold, and eaten. Fast and cheap is the name of the game. Anti-biotics, growth hormones, vaccinations go into the animal; the animal goes into us. It's undeniable. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Those of us who have been camp counselors know what it's like to have a bunk of children with a laundry list of allergies for you to be aware of and remember (from dust to bee stings to peanuts to freshly cut grass! - not to mention keeping track of all their inhalers). And, if you haven't noticed, c</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">hildren are growing (or not growing!) at a much more alarming rate than they have in the past. How could it not be linked to the way we are feeding ourselves and the way the food industry has been changing?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Example... Football players are big dudes. They've always been big dudes. But doesn't it seem like these days kids are sprouted from the ground at 6'4" 250lbs. cradling a football? These monsters seem bigger and stronger than ever. They are bred to win high school state championships, get scholarships to Division I schools, and then go be millionaires in the NFL. From day one they are told to bulk up and eat your protein. So, the more protein they need, the more meat they eat, the more genetic altering material goes into their body, the bigger, stronger, and potentially unhealthier they get. Here are some stats to chew on:</span><br />
<br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From 1920 to 1984, there were NEVER more than 8 players in any season who weighed 300 pounds or more. In 2006, there were <u><i><b>570</b></i></u>(!), nearly 20% of all players.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970, the average player is nearly 25 pounds heavier, averaging 245 pounds.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Over the same period, the average offensive linemen is 62 pounds heavier; defensive linemen, 34 pounds; quarterbacks 26, pounds; running backs 17, pounds.</span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The numbers are staggering. And now the players are huge which can net them tens of millions of dollars - so they're happy. The offensive line is impenetrable - so the quarterbacks and coaches are happy. The team dominates - so the owners and fans are happy. Everybody wins! But at what cost? The player plays for 10-15 years, retires, and develops all kinds of physical ailments stemming from the abuse on and off the field throughout their career (see Reggie White: most feared defensive lineman of his time - dead of cardiac and pulmonary failure at age 43).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Can we draw the line all the way back to the way meat is being produced and consumed? I'm not saying that. But my question is this: would we knowingly take a syringe and inject ourselves and our children with hormones and genetics-altering material at every meal? I know my answer but I'll let Mr. Reese leave you with the final thought for the day:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>I use the old genetics, the birds that were raised a hundred years ago. </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Do they grow slower? Yes. Do I have to feed them more? Yes. </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>But you </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>look at them and tell me if they're healthy. The industrial birds? </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>It's like putting a broken down Honda on the Autobahn and saying it's a Porsche. </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>KFC chickens are almost always killed in thirty-nine days. They're babies. </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>That's how rapidly they're grown. It can't be allowed to live any longer because </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>its genetics are so screwed up. ... When I grew up, the animals were </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>taken care of first. You did chores before you ate breakfast. We were told </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>that if we didn't take care of the animals, we weren't going to eat. We never </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>went on vacations. Somebody always had to be here. ... It had to be done no </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>matter what. If you don't want that responsibility, don't become a farmer. </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Because that's what it takes to do it right. And if you can't do it right, don't </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>do it. It's that simple. And I'll tell you another thing: if consumers don't want </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>to pay the farmer to do it right, they shouldn't eat meat.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #fdf9c8; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px;"><img src="http://www.goodshepherdpoultryranch.com/photoshow/turkey_13.jpg" /></span></div></div>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-39628006332070009952011-08-23T12:12:00.000-07:002011-08-23T12:12:31.686-07:00How to Comment and FollowApparently, there are a few people out there who enjoy reading (thank you!) but are having issues commenting and following this blog. I have received many questions, queries, concerns, etc. asking me how to rectify the situation. Being somewhat technologically "challenged" myself, I enlisted the help of Annemarie Catalano. Annemarie and I were friends in middle/high school before we went our separate ways. Happily, we have reconnected, she has become a devoted follower and commenter and has been so kind as to write up a "how to" regarding this matter. Here it is:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 14px;"><b>Blogs are a fantastic example of social media, and we learn so much from intelligent exchange, sharing thoughts and insights on what we've read that others have posted, on topics new and familiar, from all walks of life; commenting on Blogger specifically, though, can be a bit complex, especially if you aren't sure how to do it. What follows is a detailed description of how to comment on a blog on the blogger site, and then a more abridged version as a recap! Enjoy, and then comment until the (non-meat non-dairy) cows come home!</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><b><br />
</b></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px; text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 14px;">At the end of every blog post in any blog on Blogger, you will see the number of comments made by users on that particular post. These are a great continuation of the information contained in the blog; whether contradictory responses, shared insights for the blog writer, or simply words of encouragement or enjoyment, you should always make sure to read comments on any blog post that you've enjoyed, and certainly add to the exchange!</span></span></b></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">To make a comment on the post make sure you've scrolled all the way to the bottom of the post and simply click where it say "# comments" (the number indicates how many people have commented). When you click this link, it will take you into the comments reader and editor, and you will see a box where you can enter your comment. </span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333;"><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Keep in mind that in order to comment on any blog in Blogger, you must have an account profile at one of the following: Google, Live Journal, Word Press, Typepad, AIM, or OpenID. Once you enter your comment, you need to choose a profile that you want to comment with. Select the profile that you want, and then click "Post comment", following the directions (they are different depending on which profile you choose...if you don't have a profile in any of these domains, keep reading...). Personally, I find the Google profile the easiest, and all you need is a Gmail account - even if you don't have or want Gmail, you can create an account and simply not use it! If you already have an account through one of these mediums, all you have to do is enter your account name! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Once you enter your comment, choose your profile, and click "Post comment". There is one more step before your comment will be visible: If you don't already have one, you will need to create a Blogger profile.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Once you follow the directions to create the Blogger account, it will take you immediately back to your comment, which will be ready to finally post! Just click "Post comment", and your comment should appear! </span></div></span></span></span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><b><br />
</b></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><b>See below for simple numbered steps:</b></span></span></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 14px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">1. Read post</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">2. Click on "# comments"</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">3. Type witty, well-thought-out and meaningful comment</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 14px;">4. Choose profile to use while commenting</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">4a. If you don't have a profile, create one quickly, and easily</div><div style="text-align: center;">4b. Follow all directions and it will take less than a minute!</div><div style="text-align: center;">4c. Google accounts (Gmail) are the easiest to use</div><div style="text-align: center;">5. Click "Post comment"</div><div style="text-align: center;">6. Voila...you have commented!</div></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 14px;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">As an addendum, I would just like to add that as soon as you have created an account and commented, simply click on "Follow" in the upper left corner of the blog page and follow the directions. It's that simple!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Thank you so much, Annemarie, for your time, help, and insight. I hope this helps all those who have had issues and, if there are any more questions or issues, please ask and we will work it out. I want everyone to have the capability to Follow and Comment on this blog. That's how it will continue to thrive and expand! Also, please don't forget to find and follow me on Twitter (@Recon_Carnivore). Thank you all for reading! </span></span>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-19214938733437947082011-08-13T12:46:00.000-07:002011-08-13T12:46:25.647-07:00Jonathan Safran Foer on "Ellen"When I began this journey, it was simply to improve my health and wellness. As I continue to do more research into the practices of creating and distributing food in this country, I start to get tired. Tired of being lied to and manipulated. Tired of being led to believe that farms are happy places where the animals live nice lives and are milked and cared for by an old, good-hearted James Cromwell-esque man. Tired of being told that "cage-free" living is really so much better than chickens being caged. But I'll leave the ranting for a later date and share this enlightening interview given by Jonathan Safran Foer (<u><b>Everything is Illuminated</b></u>) on the "Ellen Show". His is also the author of <u style="font-weight: bold;">Eating Animals</u> which I am currently reading. I will be sharing my thoughts on the book when I finish but his research, insight, and knowledge is staggering and moving. He is just a regular guy who wonders why things in the food industry must be the way they are. Truly a fascinating man.<br />
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Enjoy watching! Please become a follower, share your thoughts, follow me on Twitter (@Recon_Carnivore), and tell your friends and family to do the same. Thank you for your support!<br />
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</span></span>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-11846259537764440412011-07-22T17:49:00.000-07:002011-07-22T17:49:38.297-07:00Treat of the Week: Pasta with Marinara SauceWe have a good friend in town. And what do you do when a good friend comes in from out of town? You catch up over a great meal. This kind of thing happens everyday. But why was last night different from all other nights? Because I decided to be cautiously adventurous. Cautious because I decided that we'd have pasta with marinara sauce for dinner. Good, ol' fashioned pasta - that's what vegetarians eat, right? Adventurous because, for the first time, I was going to prepare and cook this entire meal myself. Absolutely unprecedented!<div><br />
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</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: Times; line-height: normal;">So, I whipped out my trusty <i><a href="http://www.theppk.com/books/veganomicon-the-ultimate-vegan-cookbook/">Veganomicon: The Ultimate Vegan Cookbook</a> </i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: Times; line-height: normal;">in search of the perfect recipe. What I found was a marinara sauce that is soy-free, gluten-free, low-fat, and prepared in less than an hour with ingredients that can be found at any grocery store. Perfection! But, putting the cart before the horse, I wanted to jazz it up a little. I took two of their suggested variations of the basic recipe, combined them with each other and the original, and made a Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Marinara Sauce with Meatless Chorizo. Here's how to do it:</span></span></div><div><b><u><br />
</u></b></div><div><b><u>INGREDIENTS</u></b></div><div><ul><li>1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil</li>
<li>1 cup finely chopped white or yellow onion</li>
<li>1 cup thinly sliced mushrooms</li>
<li>4 cloves garlic, minced</li>
<li>1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon dried thyme</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon dried oregano</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper</li>
<li>Several pinches of freshly ground black pepper</li>
<li>One link meatless chorizo (I recommend Yves Veggie Chorizo)</li>
<li>Pasta of your choice (we used one whole box of DeBoles Gluten-Free Angel Hair Pasta)</li>
<li>As much nutritional yeast as you want (a cheesy substitute for parmesan)</li>
</ul><div><b><u>DIRECTIONS</u></b></div></div><div><ol><li>Preheat a saucepan over medium-low heat.</li>
<li>Add the extra virgin olive oil.</li>
<li>Sweat 1 cup of finely chopped white or yellow onion for about 15 minutes (to sweat, keep the heat low and cover, stirring every few minutes - the onions SHOULD NOT brown).</li>
<li>Uncover and cook for 15 more minutes at higher heat, until browned and caramelized.</li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sauté 1 cup of thinly sliced mushrooms.</span></em></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Add the garlic and s</span></em></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">auté for about a minute, until fragrant (DO NOT let the garlic burn)</span></em></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Add the remaining ingredients (tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, cayenne, black pepper), cover, and raise the heat a bit to bring to a simmer.</span></em></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.</span></em></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">While the sauce is simmering, boil a large pot of water, add a pinch of salt, and add the pasta, and cook to al dente (firm but not hard - there should be some resistance in the center).</span></em></span></span></em></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Slice chorizo into thin rounds and and add to sauce with about 5 minutes left to simmer (the Yves Chorizo is already cooked so it only needs some heating up).</span></em></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">Strain pasta and add it to saucepan.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">Mix well until the pasta is completely covered.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">Sprinkle some Nutritional Yeast on top for your Parmesan cheese substitute (optional).</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">EAT UP!</span></span></li>
</ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">That's it! The recipe takes about 45 minutes of your life to prepare and leaves you happy all night. It may look like a few more steps than you are accustomed but believe me, if I can do it, you can do it. The pasta is light, but filling. The sauce is perfectly spiced with a little bit of a kick from the garlic, cayenne, and chorizo. It is slightly sweet from the caramelized onions but not nearly as sweet as the store-bought brands that are filled with sugar. If you crave pasta from time to time (I can totally empathize), then this meal is a delicious, healthy way to satisfy your craving. As with all recipes, feel free to improvise. Add some broccoli or spinach to give yourself some greens or get rid of the mushrooms if you aren't into them. It's all good!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">Give it a try. Let us all know what you think. Become a follower. Find me on Twitter (@Recon_Carnivore). Tell your friends and family - they deserve to be healthy and happy too. And, as always, thanks for reading!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"> </span></span></div></div>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-76930219738211692582011-07-11T14:22:00.000-07:002011-07-11T14:22:15.645-07:00The Mysterious A.J. Reb MateriI am a quote junkie. Sure, I have original thoughts in my head but, <b>"someone else has already said it best. So, if you can't top it, steal from them and go out strong." (from the movie, <u>American History X</u>)</b> See? I can't help myself! Today, I encountered this very situation. In preparing this post, I tried to create an original quote about health and wellness that would be mind-boggling, yet thought provoking. Turning to the internet for inspiration, I found a quote that boggled my mind and made me think. So, I decided to steal that one instead.<br />
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</span></b><br />
<blockquote><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"So many people spend their health gaining wealth, and then have to spend their wealth to regain their health."</span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> - A.J. Reb Materi</span></b></blockquote><br />
I don't know what it is, but there is something so simple, poetic, truthful, and sad about this quote. It sums things up in a very succinct way. There are too many people who work themselves to the bone; sacrificing sleep, eating unhealthy food from wherever they can get it (whenever their schedule allows them a few minutes to scarf), not exercising nearly enough, and putting themselves through all kinds of mental anguish for the sake of their careers - only to spend their hard earned money to remedy the maladies they created while making their money in the first place. Fascinating.<br />
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What's almost as fascinating is this: the quote's eloquent speaker, A.J. Reb Materi, doesn't seem to exist! I have searched and searched and have found NOTHING about this person aside from this singular quote. Such foreboding words from such a mysterious source. Here is your homework assignment:<br />
<br />
There are many different ways to interpret someone else's words and these are only my personal feelings. Please take a few minutes, digest the words, and tell us what the quote means to you. If you agree with it, tell us why. If you think it's ridiculous and near-sighted, tell us why. What is your interpretation? And, most importantly, does anyone actually know who A.J. Reb Materi is?! <br />
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Please become a follower, share your thoughts, follow me on Twitter (@Recon_Carnivore), and tell your friends and family to do the same! I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July weekend and thank you for reading!<br />
Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-58395984799652123542011-06-27T16:24:00.000-07:002011-06-27T16:24:19.812-07:00Pasta and Salad: Not the Only Staples of a Vegan DietI am officially "outing" myself as a Food Network nerd. My DVR, which once used to house many stupid, unoriginal sitcoms, now is filled with cooking shows and competitions. I still don't know how to make them but I can now have an intelligent conversation about risotto, amuse bouche, balsamic reductions, and other fun tricks and dishes.<br />
<br />
Why do I bring this up? I'm glad you asked. I was watching an episode of "The Next Food Network Star" when a team of competitors was asked to prepare a vegetarian meal. Liza has always said that people love to feed vegetarians pasta and salad - I am beginning to notice this more and more in my healthy eating experience. Sure enough, the two partners on the team decided to make a pasta dish and a salad. It's as if these foods are the only ones that everyone, regardless of eating habits, can enjoy.<br />
<br />
This brings me to my next point that was raised on the exact same episode. A cook decided to create a tofu dish and the guest judge (Paula "Butter/Sugar/Chocolate" Dean) immediately told him he'd "be in for a rough day". I can understand this sentiment because for many years, tofu was a completely taboo concept to me. I didn't want to taste it, I didn't want to try it, I didn't want to have anything to do with it. And, sure enough, he made a dish that everyone (including Paula) loved.<br />
<br />
My point being: although I am grateful for ANY meal that is graciously made for me, vegetarians (and vegans) eat good food and there is more than pasta and salad. <br />
<br />
There's roasted veggies, grilled/BBQ'd veggies, all kinds of stir-fries, quinoa (an amazing superfood that is more like rice than pasta - stay tuned for further posts about it), soups, wraps, fake meats (we made Sloppy Joe's from fake ground meat and just kept saucing and seasoning until I truly couldn't tell the difference!), sandwiches, just to name a few. Or, if you want to go with something that everyone likes - pizza! There are COUNTLESS vegan and/or gluten-free pizza recipes and pre-made, frozen pizzas. My favorite is Amy's Roasted Vegetable Pizza.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1px;"><img height="400" id="il_fi" src="http://arugulafiles.typepad.com/.a/6a00e55091ba2f883301156f56f97c970b-800wi" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.648438) 2px 2px 8px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.648438) 2px 2px 8px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="400" /></span><br />
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I was eating this pizza long before I became vegan and I am still addicted. I know many would say that pizza is not pizza without cheese. Believe me, I felt the same way. But this sauce is amazing and I don't miss the cheese one bit. It's still not totally fresh and shouldn't be eaten every day (note also that it is not gluten-free) but it's just another example of a familiar food that can be served to vegetarians and vegans.<br />
<br />
So, I would like to open to floor. Why is there this stigma that vegetarians and vegans are so hard to feed? This is something that I've been wondering so I'd love to hear what everyone has to say. Please do not be shy! <br />
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As always, thanks for reading, become a Follower, find me on Twitter (@Recon_Carnivore), and tell your friends!Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-3079574142723262292011-06-24T17:12:00.000-07:002011-06-24T17:12:33.837-07:00Treat of the Week, Part 2: Carrot Cake Soft Serve<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you may recall, this past Monday was dedicated to The Baron Ginsburg Smoothie - the perfect way to start the day. And as you may also recall, I promised to share with you the perfect end to the day... </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We all work hard. We all like to treat ourselves at the end of a long day. But we also know that eating ice cream at 10pm is not the smartest idea. To that end, I give you:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>CARROT CAKE SOFT SERVE</u></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Ingredients</u></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span><br />
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<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 frozen banana</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Almond milk <b>(less milk is creamier, more milk is a little softer)</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A dash of nutmeg</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cinnamon to taste</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tablespoon all natural nut butter</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chopped baby carrots to taste <b>(they do not overpower the taste so add as many or as few as you'd like)</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Raisins <b>(optional)</b></span></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div style="font-weight: bold; line-height: normal; text-decoration: underline;">Directions</div><div><ol><li>Blend to desired consistency and enjoy! Again, it couldn't be easier!</li>
<li>Add raisins, if desired.</li>
</ol><div><br />
</div></div><div>As you can see, it doesn't get any simpler than this. All natural, easily digestible, filled with vitamins - an amazing late night snack after eight (or more) stressful hours on the job! If you don't like carrots - leave them out! It's a free country! You'll still have a delicious banana soft serve! Again, a tremendously versatile recipe for all to enjoy. There you have it. The perfect way to start a day (see Monday's post: The Smoothie) and the perfect way to end the day. Try these recipes at least a few times each week and you will wake up and go to sleep happy each time. What could be better???</div></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you for reading, PLEASE become a follower, PLEASE answer the poll at the bottom of the page, PLEASE find me and follow me on Twitter (@Recon_Carnivore), and PLEASE tell your friends! </span></span>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-77224783837076434252011-06-20T17:53:00.000-07:002011-06-20T17:53:18.468-07:00Treat of the Week, Part 1: The SmoothieI thought I would give everyone's brains a rest this week. So, for a change, I will not impart tremendously useful knowledge to you today. This week I would love to focus on the best ways to start and end the day. <br />
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I don't know about everyone else, but when I wake up in the morning I don't always feel like eating; it's as if my body isn't ready to accept food just yet. I know how important it is to get the metabolism going as soon as possible (we'll delve into that in another post) so we have devised a way to get food in our systems while keeping it light and refreshing and not overwhelming at the same time. I give you...<br />
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<b><u>THE BARON GINSBURG SMOOTHIE</u></b><br />
<b><u><br />
</u></b><br />
<u><b>Ingredients</b></u><br />
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<ul><li><b>1/2 frozen banana</b> </li>
<li><b>3/4 cup frozen fruit of your choice </b>(berries are a great option but we've also had success with peaches and mangoes - ANY supermarket will have bags of frozen fruit, just make sure that it is 100% fruit with no additives)</li>
<li><b>1 cup Almond Milk</b> (we've tried many brands but are happiest with Blue Diamond Almond Breeze Original Unsweetened - most stores carry this now, as well)</li>
<li><b>2 tablespoons</b> <b>flaxseed meal </b>(go with Bob's Red Mill if you can - the flaxseed is SO high in fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids)</li>
<li><b>1 tablespoon raw cacao powder</b> (we use Navitas - you can skip this step if you'd like but we love having a little hint of chocolate in our smoothies)</li>
</ul><div><b><u>Directions</u></b></div><div><ol><li>Blend to desired consistency and drink up! That's it! That's all there is to it! </li>
</ol></div><div><br />
</div><div>We drink these smoothies every morning, right when we wake up, and they are just what the doctor ordered. They only take about 5 minutes to make and they are the perfect blend of simplicity, healthy ingredients, and great taste. The best part is - this is just our version. You can add whatever you want to this basic template. Wanna add some all natural peanut butter for thickness and protein? Do it! How bout a few drops of Agave for your active sweet tooth? Go for it! Or even a handful of spinach to get your dose of leafy greens? Have at you! Note: we've tried the spinach trick and, trust me, you can't even tell that it's there. If leafy greens aren't your thing, THIS is how to eat them. They won't affect the flavor and they give you ridiculous amounts of vitamins. Drink your greens! I encourage you to give this recipe a try, jazz it up to your liking, and start your day off by letting your metabolism get to work on easily digestible foods instead of the 1790 calorie (970 calories of fat) Big Country Breakfast at IHOP.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Thank you for reading, PLEASE become a follower, PLEASE find me and follow me on Twitter (@Recon_Carnivore), and PLEASE tell your friends! Tune in on Friday for the perfect late night snack to end a hectic day! </div><div><br />
</div>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-60091362017367720032011-06-13T09:54:00.000-07:002011-06-13T09:59:11.265-07:00H.O.P.E.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Monday, everyone! I feel like I should have written this post earlier considering it is the basis for most of my healthy eating - but better late than never! </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I made the choice to begin my brand new vegan lifestyle, I really wanted to start from scratch and give my body a clean slate on which to work. Also, I thought it would be wise to get some expert opinions on what to eat. So, when we returned from our honeymoon in Thailand, Liza and I went to visit Shannon Elldrege at <a href="http://www.zencleanse.com/">Zen Cleanse</a> here in Tarzana. First of all, I have never had such a casual conversation that focused on the "workings" of the human body (mine, in particular). She really put us at ease. But that's a whole other story...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The most important information I left with were her "building blocks" to healthy eating. She calls them H.O.P.E. or:</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>H</b>igh fiber</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>O</b>ils</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>P</b>robiotics</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>E</b>nzymes</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thought I would take this opportunity to define each of these blocks, explain why they are so important to our bodies, and give a few examples of where to find them in everyday life. Strap yourselves in!</span><br />
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<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">HIGH FIBER</span></u></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fiber is essentially "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">the indigestible portion of plant foods having two main components: soluble and insoluble. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">It acts by changing the nature of the contents of the gastrointestinal tract, and by changing how other nutrients and chemicals are absorbed. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Soluble fiber absorbs water to become a gelatinous, viscous substance and is fermented by bacteria in the digestive tract. Insoluble fiber has bulking action and is not fermented." (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 17px;">US Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Library and National Academy of Sciences, Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">)</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Got all that? In layman's terms, you get fiber from the bulk of plants and it helps your body digest things more easily. High fiber is 5g or more of fiber in a serving. Easy enough. But fiber has gotten a bad rap because of what it makes people think of - it makes you have to go to the bathroom. True, but that is extremely important to our bodies. Assisting our bodies in digestion and elimination (yup, that's what you think it is) is essential to living a healthy life. So let's not be so squeamish and get more fiber in our diets. The best sources of high fiber can be found in:</span><br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Grains (whole grain bread, bran, brown rice, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Fruits (berries, raisins, apples, bananas, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Vegetables (baked beans, lentils, peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts, cashews, etc.)</span></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OILS</span></b></u><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When people think of oils, they probably think of EFA's (essential fatty acids) and Omega-3's. EFA's are the bodyguards that protect cell membranes so that they are able to admit healthy substances while blocking ones that may hurt us. Omega-3's could be the most recognizable fatty acids. Their advantages include, but are not limited to:</span><br />
<ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Acting as an anti-inflammatory </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Improving brain function</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Protecting against heart disease</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Controlling intestinal disorders</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Treating skin problems such as acne or eczema</span></li>
</ol><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The popular way to get your EFA's and Omega-3's is by taking fish oil. But, being vegan doesn't afford us that option. So, we use flaxseed oil. It can be purchased at any Whole Foods and is an incredible way to get your oils. Just one teaspoon contains approximately 2.5g of Omega-3's which is equivalent to more than twice the amount an average person gets in their diet. Instead of using a creamy salad dressing or regular olive oil in a frying pan, sprinkle a tablespoon of flaxseed oil onto your greens and let it work its magic.</span><br />
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<u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">PROBIOTICS</span></u></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In 1989, Roy Fuller came up with the definition that is most widely recognized when referring to probiotics. "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">A live microbial feed supplement which beneficially affects the host animal by improving its intestinal microbial balance." (The Journal of Applied Bacteriology) In short, probiotics are just what the name would suggest: microorganisms that are introduced into the body and are beneficial to the host. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Some probiotics have been shown to be helpful in preventing and treating various forms of several ailments including:</span><br />
<ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Diarrhea</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Lactose intolerance</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Colon Cancer</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Cholesterol</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Blood pressure</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Immune function</span></li>
</ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">I must admit that I am not as well versed in the field of probiotics so I won't act like the expert and direct you to a product I know nothing about. What I was told by Shannon is to buy an unrefrigerated probiotic. The refrigerated products are only fresh at the controlled temperature in which they are kept and should be consumed immediately to achieve desired results. Taking them out of the refrigerator, purchasing them, traveling them home, and then refrigerating them again could very easily create enough unrefrigerated time to kill the beneficial microorganisms. Liza's favorite probiotic comes in the form of a fermented tea drink called Kombucha. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #54c0a0; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #54c0a0; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BVN-3lCWOZg/TUjWAjeBXuI/AAAAAAAAE2o/i1rz_cXjIJU/s320/bottles03.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 1px 1px 5px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 1px 1px 5px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px; position: relative;" width="317" /> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">She prefers the Synergy brand but they come in many different flavors and brands. Try one out, do your homework, talk to a doctor, visit a health food store that carries a wide variety of probiotics, and ask questions! And, for the record, if anyone has advice on a good probiotic, please share so we can all benefit!</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ENZYMES</span></u></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This final block is probably the easiest of the group to recognize and find. This is your bulk. Your fruits. Your veggies. Your juices. I'm sure all of your mothers have told you to eat your veggies and drink your juice so I don't have to tell you about all the vitamins (B, B-12, C, etc.), minerals, fiber and so much more. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But I will tell you that this lifestyle hinges around this block. It is the crux of almost every meal we eat. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that a 30 year old man who does up to an hour of exercise daily should eat 2(!) cups of fruit and 3.5(!) cups of vegetables per day. I feel that these numbers are very low but, if they are accurate, there is no excuse to not achieve your fruit and veggie intake everyday. Go to your local store where you buy produce, find organic fruits and veggies (when possible) and go to town! Also, I must recommend my favorite juice in the world: <a href="http://www.bolthouse.com/">Bolthouse</a>. These juices are delicious, healthy, 100% natural, filled with vitamins, and they come in both fruit and vegetable choices. One 8 oz. glass of their juice each morning gives you a great start to the day. Please keep in mind that, even though Bolthouse juice is a wonderful way to get your dose of fruits and veggies, it is still not as beneficial as fresh juice or smoothies. Additives are still included to keep the juice fresh for a longer period of time which may lessen the amounts of enzymes that are available. Eating or juicing fresh fruits and veggies is still the way to go if at all possible!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><img src="http://www.hmsdesign.com/images/foodbev/foodbev_large_bolthouse.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">I hope this was a big help to everyone. I refer to this list daily and try my hardest to incorporate all of these blocks into my everyday food choices. Some days are more successful than others, but we live and learn. Just remember:</span><br />
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</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"></span></span><br />
<div style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>H</b>igh fiber</span></div><div style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>O</b>ils</span></div><div style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>P</b>robiotic</span></div><div style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>E</b>nzymes</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">is the opposite of...</span><br />
<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></u></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>D</b>onuts</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>O</b>reos</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>U</b>pside down cake (there aren't many foods that start with "U", ok!?)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>B</b>utterfingers</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>T</b>wizzlers</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As always, thanks for reading. Create a profile, become a follower, tell your friends and family to do the same, and follow me on Twitter! (@Recon_Carnivore)</span>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-29774089038049590882011-06-06T13:52:00.000-07:002011-06-06T13:52:38.359-07:00How Much Is Too Much?We exercise - A LOT! Ok, we're not triathletes or body builders but we put in a solid hour (at least) of hard-core, non-stop, sweat-inducing, body-altering work every day. I'll be discussing our regiment in a later post. I have definitely noticed a difference in my body structure, strength, and endurance but the bottom line is - it still hurts and maybe sometimes I just need a break. <br />
<br />
Example: Yesterday Liza and I completed our fifth straight day of running, jumping, squatting, and doing ridiculous amounts of pushups all at a high paced tempo. We were tired but, as usual, we felt happy just to get through the whole thing (Liza more successfully than me, lately). Sore as ever, we took our recovery drinks, showered, and left for a brunch party. While at the party, there were three 15 year old boys playing basketball and they asked me if I wanted to play. Sure! Forget the fact that I haven't played a real game of basketball in at least five years. I've been eating great and exercising so I can do anything, right? Well, I was a little rusty but I was playing better than I expected. Then I began to breathe heavy. Then my legs started to feel like Jell-O. Then I couldn't jump to grab a rebound. Then these little punks started running right past me. I felt fine but I just couldn't keep up anymore. I got home and discovered that I had pulled something in my chest/upper back which made exercise this morning not terribly efficient. I am not in massive amounts of pain and I'm sure all will be well in a couple of days but this begs the question:<br />
<br />
How much is too much?<br />
<br />
I clearly understand the need to exercise every day (with the understanding that the body needs a day to simply rest or stretch instead of killing itself) but I am struggling with this question as well:<br />
<br />
When do you push through with everything you've got and when do you listen to your body, take the hint, and let it go?<br />
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I clearly don't have the answer just yet because I either push through and sometimes regret it or I listen to my body, let it go, and feel like a lazy bum. So, I turn to you all. <u>PLEASE</u> create a profile, become a follower/friend, and throw in your opinions. This is not just for me, but for all of us. Maybe there are a ton of people reading this blog who are having the same issues and you are the one person who has the solution. See? You could be the one to solve everyone's problems. What a cool thought! <br />
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As always, thank you for reading, tell your friends, and take care of yourselves!Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-60200850620861364192011-06-03T14:51:00.000-07:002011-06-03T14:51:02.197-07:00Treat of the Week: Vegan Banana Apple Chunk BreadI came home late from work the other night and, the moment I entered the hallway leading to the living room, I was hit with an incredible smell. It was a sweet smelling aroma that I would recognize anywhere - freshly baked banana bread! My tired body immediately woke up and headed straight for the kitchen where my assumption was verified. Liza had baked us one of the most amazing smelling banana breads I had ever encountered. Not only that, but it was completely vegan, tremendously healthy, and apparently easy to make. And, to top it all off, I would not be posting this recipe right now if this bread wasn't absolutely delicious in every way! It's sweet, ridiculously moist, and surprisingly light. It can really be eaten at any time of the day and the prep work is so minimal, you can make the whole thing (from start to finish) in just over an hour. Enjoy and, if you didn't believe me about the previous recipes, do yourself a favor and try this one - you <u>will not</u> regret it! Please leave comments and tell your friends. Let's get some banter going!!!<br />
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<b><u>VEGAN, GLUTEN FREE BANANA APPLE CHUNK BREAD</u></b><br />
courtesy of www.fitsugar.com<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
<br />
<ul><li>2 ripe bananas</li>
<li>1 apple, peeled and diced</li>
<li>2/3 cup Sucanat or sugar <b>(Liza used Raw Agave - a staple of any healthy sweet tooth diet!)</b></li>
<li>1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour <b>(Liza used Bob's Almond Flour to make it gluten free)</b></li>
<li>1/2 cup applesauce</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1 teaspoon salt</li>
</ul><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><ol><li>Preheat oven to 350<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">°F. Lightly spray (or grease with butter/butter substitute) a nine-inch loaf pan.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In a medium sized bowl, mash the bananas with a fork.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Pour into greased pan.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bake for 45-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out dry <b>(Liza baked ours for about 70 minutes - it could have been our oven or the flour substitution but it still came out perfectly - just keep an eye on it)</b></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cool in pan for 15 minutes and then transfer to a cooling rack.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Enjoy! It doesn't get any easier than this recipe!</span></span></li>
</ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><b><u>BEFORE</u></b></span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: #555555; font-family: 'helvetica neue', helvetica, arial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;"><img class="inline left" src="http://media9.onsugar.com/files/2011/06/22/3/192/1922729/0e2304ed937cfe00_batter-bread.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; float: left; font-size: 13px; height: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: -5px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: baseline; width: auto;" /></span></u></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: #555555; font-family: 'helvetica neue', helvetica, arial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;"><br />
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</span></u></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>AFTER</b></span></u></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: #555555; font-family: 'helvetica neue', helvetica, arial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;"><img class="inline" src="http://media1.onsugar.com/files/2011/06/22/3/192/1922729/083892c60a2f603c_bread-done.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(228, 228, 228); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; font-size: 13px; height: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: -5px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-top: 3px; vertical-align: baseline; width: auto;" /></span></b></span></u></span></div>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-23621241199717878112011-05-27T14:21:00.000-07:002011-05-27T14:21:42.743-07:00Treat of the Week: Recovery PuddingLately I've noticed that I've been getting exponentially more tired every day. I know it shouldn't come as a huge surprise since my exercise level, work load, audition amount, etc. has started to pile on, but I still don't like it. I mean, I'm eating <u>a lot</u> of really great calories and going to sleep earlier than I have in years in the effort to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night - but I'm still totally beat by the end of each day.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>I've noticed that it all begins after our Insanity workouts (stay tuned, that's a later post). Some people feel totally alive and ready to tackle the world after an hour of ridiculously intense cardio and/or weight training but, honestly, it just makes me want to fall on the couch and melt into oblivion. I feel like I don't have the sufficient amount of energy to accomplish what needs to be done throughout the day. So, I turned to Brendan Brazier, the Ironman triathlete, Ultra Marathon Champion, and author of <u>The Thrive Diet</u>, for advice. On page 126, I found a recovery pudding recipe which sounded like a filling amount of healthy calories that will hopefully help my body bounce back directly after a tough workout. For those who don't own the book, here's the recipe:</div><div><ol><li>2 bananas <b>(fresh or frozen; we chose to use frozen to keep it cold and refreshing)</b></li>
<li>1 cup blueberries <b>(fresh or frozen; we also chose to use frozen)</b></li>
<li>1/2 cup soaked almonds <b>(we didn't soak ours but I recommend that you do - it's easier on your blender/food processor)</b></li>
<li>1/4 cup ground flaxseed <b>(again, we used Bob's - see the Pumpkin Muffin recipe for details)</b></li>
<li>1/4 cup hemp protein <b>(you can get a good brand at Whole Foods or Trader Joe's)</b></li>
<li>1/4 cup roasted carob powder <b>(we used Navitas Naturals Raw Cacao Powder from Whole Foods)</b></li>
<li>2 tsp ground rooibos <b>(a caffeine free herbal plant used to make tea - we didn't use it)</b></li>
<li>1 tsp lemon juice <b>(we nixed this one as well because I don't enjoy lemon juice)</b></li>
<li>1/4 tsp sea salt</li>
</ol><ul><li>In a food processor or blender, combine all ingredients; process until smooth</li>
<li>This pudding will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but it's best when eaten fresh</li>
<li>Makes 2 servings</li>
</ul><div>We tried the pudding for the first time today and it was definitely refreshing, very flavorful, and surprisingly filling. I'm not sure of the effect this will have on my energy but, in addition to drinking more water than usual, it couldn't hurt. I'll be happy to update everyone! I know there are lots of people out there who are athletes, exercise freaks, dancers, bikers, etc. so give this a try and let us all know what you think! Happy and healthy living to you all!</div></div>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-5767749704174645312011-05-23T12:38:00.000-07:002011-05-23T12:38:12.578-07:00WorldFest 2011<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #68318c; font-family: Philosopher, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://michellegq.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/worldfest-banner.jpg" style="color: #6ca11f; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-572" height="76" src="http://michellegq.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/worldfest-banner-300x76.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 10px !important; margin-left: 10px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="worldfest banner" width="300" /></a></span><br />
<div>For weeks now, Liza has been talking about going to WorldFest here in L.A. I had never heard of WorldFest before but it sounded like it would be a bunch of weirdos talking about loving the environment and taking two minute showers to conserve water. Boy, was I wrong! The entire experience turned out to be an amazing way to get people outside to enjoy the beautiful day, good food, interesting workshops, fun music, etc. </div><div><br />
</div><div>From the moment we began walking from the parking lot to Woodley Park, there was an undeniable feeling of relaxed happiness and a sense of community; and entering through the gates only increased the sensation. As a novice to this world, I didn't know what to expect, but here were hundreds (maybe thousands) of people who looked just like me. If I had run into many of these people on the street in front of an ubiquitous fast food chain, I would never have guessed that we had similar eating habits. Although I don't feel like I need validation for my choices, it was comforting to feel instantly accepted by everyone. </div><div><br />
</div><div>It also didn't hurt that we were immediately welcomed by countless stands of delicious vegan food. The variety was truly astounding with types of foods spanning Asian, Jamaican, Indian, BBQ, salads, sandwiches, burgers, desserts, and countless others. All original and all healthy. Some personal favorites were:</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://glutenfreerecipebox.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/gluten-free-macaroons-chocolate1.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: left; color: #5f8904; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="Hail Merry Gluten-free Macaroons" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5093" height="200" src="http://glutenfreerecipebox.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/gluten-free-macaroons-chocolate1.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-style: initial; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Gluten-free Macaroons Chocolate" width="172" /></a></div><div><b>Hail Merry Chocolate Macaroons</b></div><div><i>moist, full of taste, tremendously decadent, and totally healthy - amazing!</i></div><div><a href="http://www.hailmerry.com/">www.hailmerry.com</a></div><div>*for 10% off their products, use the promo code: OMEGAS</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Luscious Organic Desserts Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites</b></div><div><i>a mini-Whatchamacallit candy bar - peanut butter and choco excellence!</i></div><div><a href="http://www.lusciousorganicdesserts.com/">www.lusciousorganicdesserts.com</a></div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Stricly Vegan Jamaican Cuisine Reggae Wrap</b></div><div><i>veggies, faux meat, and mango - a fresh and delicious combination!</i></div><div><a href="http://www.strictly-vegan.com/">www.strictly-vegan.com</a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><div>And, although we didn't eat at their stand in the afternoon, it would be remiss of me not to give special mention to Sun Cafe (go to <a href="http://www.suncafe.com/">www.suncafe.com</a> for full menu and ingredients). We visited the restaurant for a date night dinner last night and it was <u>incredible</u>! Completely vegan (and mostly raw) and though I'll try, it was totally beyond description. Our meal included:</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Cream of Mushroom Soup </b>(raw) - <i>the best I've ever had!; made with a cashew cream</i></div><div><b>Raw Pesto Pizza</b> - <i>amazing blends of veggies and a perfect pesto sauce; so flavorful</i></div><div><b>Flax Crackers and Hummus</b> (raw) - <i>excellent crackers and a truly tasty hummus</i></div><div><b>Crimini Mushroom Quinoa Risotto</b> - <i>rich, vibrant, creamy; absolutely perfect</i></div><div><b>Cacao Superfood Shake</b> - <i>you would swear it was a chocolate ice cream shake; outstanding!</i></div><div><b>Chocolate Cookie Dough Cheesecake</b> (raw) - <i> decadent, sinful and delicious; the perfect end to the meal</i></div></div><div><br />
</div><div>Aside from the amazing food and clothing items, the festival was littered with fascinating booths about healthy, conscious living. Unfortunately, I can't mention them all but they ranged from raw food demonstrations, to information about stopping animal cruelty in circuses, to acupuncture, to political discussions, to exercising/bodybuilding on a vegan diet. Everywhere you looked, there was a wealth of information. I encourage everyone to go to <a href="https://worldfestevents.com/exhibitors.php">https://worldfestevents.com/exhibitors.php</a> and click on the links of the exhibitors. It makes for good, informative reading!</div><div><br />
</div><div>One of the most touching parts of the afternoon was visiting the animal areas. There were a handful of dogs in the animal adoption section that were brought to the festival in hopes they would find a home. Some had special needs, some were treated badly, some just needed a home. But it's nice to know that, until that time, it looked like they were well taken care of. Liza and I particularly hope that Lola, the Pit Bull mix we fell in love with, finds a good home soon. In another part of the animal area, people were invited to hug two baby cows, courtesy of The Gentle Barn, a wonderful facility that rescues, rehabilitates, and gives sanctuary to farm animals. On top of that, they bring at-risk, inner-city, and/or special needs children to the facility to bond with and help take care of the animals. Their goal is to build confidence, self-esteem, and motor skills, and create special bonds between the children and the animals who need their love. It truly sounds like a fantastic place, and they're open to the public on Sundays from 10:00am to 2:00pm. If you are in the southern California area, you should think about going - we hope to visit soon! Visit their website for more info at <a href="http://www.gentlebarn.org/">www.gentlebarn.org</a> .</div><div><br />
</div><div>All in all, it was a day filled with food, fun, friends, and facts. Please visit the websites listed above, do your research, start commenting so we can start talking, and look for a WorldFest near you! Happy, healthy living!</div>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-67715090417173517252011-05-20T16:37:00.000-07:002011-05-20T16:37:06.823-07:00Treat of the Week: Vegan, Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span><br />
<div>So far the response to the blog has been so overwhelmingly kind and supportive. I thank you all for continuing to read. I know it's only the second post but many a show has closed/been canceled after one night so I consider this a good start. I have already had people say they can't wait to see some recipes. And since I have to keep the fans happy, I have decided to post twice a week. Mondays will be the day for talking about health, wellness, nutrition, exercise, and progress and every Friday I will post a new recipe (dates subject to change without notice - I'll do my best). </div><div><br />
</div><div>I wanted to start with one of my favorites. Every time I whine about how I'm craving some sort of junk food, Liza always comes to the rescue by saying, "I can make you a healthy version of that." She said this exact thing last year when we were living in Chicago. I told her how I was craving a pumpkin muffin from Starbucks. She did some research, worked her magic, and whipped together a vegan, gluten-free pumpkin muffin that we make together all the time. I think they are completely amazing. The basic recipe is from <a href="http://www.ohsheglows.com/" style="color: #074d8f;" target="_blank">www.OhSheGlows.com</a> - a great resource for vegan recipes and health info. Our additions/alterations are in bold. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Note: Many of the recipes you will see are modified versions of great recipes that we find which may not be totally vegan or that we just want to jazz up a little. I will always tell you where the original recipe came from so you can look them up for yourself - there is some really great stuff out there! </div><div><br />
</div><div>So, without further ado...</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Vegan, Gluten-Free <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="il" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #222222;">Pumpkin</span> <span class="il" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #222222;">Muffins</span></span></b></div><div><span style="color: #1881c9; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span></div><div><b></b><span style="color: #1881c9; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;">Ingredients</span></div><span style="color: #111111; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 5px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 10px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><div style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 550px;"><ul style="list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 1/2 cups whole grain spelt flour <b>(we use almond flour.)</b></li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 tsp baking powder</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 tsp baking soda</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 tsp cinnamon</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 tsp nutmeg</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 tsp ground cloves <b>(we skip the cloves, but we're sure they'd be tasty.)</b></li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 tsp fine grain sea salt</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 cup Earth Balance vegan buttery spread</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/4 cup agave nectar <b>(we usually use 1/2 cup and skip the sugar.)</b></li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 cup organic cane sugar <b>(we skip it, remember?)</b></li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 cup canned or fresh <span class="il" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #222222;">pumpkin</span></li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flax [Bob's Red Mill Organic Whole Ground Flaxseed Meal is great!] + 3 Tbsp warm water, mixed)</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 tsp vanilla</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><b>1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (this is the key to make them <u>insanely</u> moist!)</b></li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><b>We also add SunSpire Vegan Carob Chips because chocolate makes everything better!</b></li>
</ul></div><div style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 550px;"><h4 style="color: #1881c9; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1em; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 10px;">Instructions</h4><ol style="margin-bottom: 1.667em; margin-left: 1.667em; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Preheat oven to 350F.</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. <b>(we use muffin tins with vegan butter - it's easier.) </b></li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Whisk flax egg in a small bowl and set aside.</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">In a medium sized bowl, combine the dry ingredients (spelt, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves). Set aside.</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">In a different bowl mix the butter, sugar and agave until smooth. </li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Now add <span class="il" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #222222;">pumpkin</span>, flax egg, and vanilla. Beat well.</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Carefully mix in dry ingredients being sure not to over mix. Spelt is broken down very quickly when mixed and you can end up with a tough batter if you over mix it. But relax it will turn out regardless! The batter will be very moist and sticky, but don’t worry!</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Pour batter evenly into muffin tins </li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Baking times vary based on the oven so bake until tops brown and do the toothpick test (stick a toothpick in the middle - if it comes out clean, they are done)</li>
<li style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 1.8em; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Makes approximately 12 muffins.</li>
</ol><div>Enjoy, happy eating, and after you have made these, please comment to let us all know what you think! And, as always, tell your friends so we can support each other along this journey!</div></div></div></div></span>Marc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2863117707827591688.post-50808712186050810962011-05-16T21:36:00.000-07:002011-05-16T22:09:23.356-07:00The Birth of a "Reconstructed Carnivore"Hi. My name is Marc, and I'm a "reconstructed carnivore". (Your cue: "Hi, Marc.") What is a "reconstructed carnivore"? Well, to be perfectly honest, I just made it up. Since there is no official definition, I'll explain where I came from and how I came to be what I call a "reconstructed carnivore", and in doing so, maybe I'll be able to define the term (and myself) more clearly.<br />
<br />
For the majority of my younger life, I ate what tasted good and was readily available. A typical day would include a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch with 2% milk for breakfast (or sometimes nothing at all), a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on Stroehmann's white bread with chips and some kind of fruit snack for lunch, and my choice of fast food - McDonald's, Taco Bell, Chinese, Lee's Hoagies, etc. - for dinner. When I snacked, I snacked on what I found in my house - ice cream, cookies, licorice, pudding - I didn't discriminate. What did I care? I was young, I was reasonably athletic, I was never a pound overweight. Mostly, I didn't know any better. I had no idea the eating habits I adopted as a child would so strongly influence my eating habits as an adult.<br />
<br />
I eventually went away to college, where my choices of food were fully mine and mine alone. Even more than when I was a child, I could eat what I wanted, when I wanted, without any thought of possible consequences. College became a blur of work, - Papa John's Spinach Alfredo Pizza - rehearsals, - D.P. Dough Danger Zone Calzones w/ Extra Hot Sauce - parties, - Wing Zone 8 Piece Chicken Wings w/ Teriyaki Garlic Sauce - performances, - Champ's Fettucini Alfredo w/ Grilled Chicken - and any other kind of food that tasted good and I didn't have to prepare myself. My roommate and I ate pizza so often, we joked that we could build furniture out of all the empty boxes we had stacked in the corner - and we probably could have! I finished college, worked in summer stock theatre, did a National Tour, and some regional theatre. All were experiences I wouldn't trade for <u>anything</u>, but my eating habits worsened and my drinking habits increased. When I was sober, I was either performing, eating, or sitting on my butt convincing myself that I needed more rest; trying to understand why I was always so tired. Granted, I was sometimes rehearsing all morning and afternoon while doing eight performances a week, but there had to be more to it. To top it all off, my metabolism didn't warn me it would stop working as hard as it used to. <br />
<br />
Fast forward about five years. I am living in Los Angeles with my beautiful wife, Liza, and our super-cool English bulldog, Egon. I recently turned 30 years old. I am happy, comfortable, confident ... and vegan. You heard right. Mr. Meat-and-Potatoes is now Mr. Veggie Burger-and-Spinach. This new lifestyle I've adopted has caused some surprise and confusion among friends and family members prompting various electronic correspondences, such as:<br />
<br />
<b>"VEGAN??? I'm sorry. I meant to send that message to my dear friend Marc Ginsburg. I must have found the wrong Facebook profile, as the Marc I knew could never part from hamburgers and hot dogs."</b><br />
<br />
and<br />
<br />
<b>"Vegan!?!? Wow! Never thought I'd live to see the day."</b><br />
<br />
and<br />
<br />
<b>"But what do you eat at baseball games?"</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Fair enough. (For the record, they serve Veggie Dogs at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. Who knew?)<br />
<br />
I questioned myself recently about why I decided to take such a drastic jump away from my culinary comfort zone. Maybe I'm having a 1/3 life crisis now that I'm out of my 20s. Could be. Maybe Liza being such a conscious, healthy eater rubbed off on me. Perhaps. Maybe I got tired of eating unhealthy meals that put me into a food coma for the rest of the night. Very possible. But it was more than that. I decided to finally take responsibility for my choices - and I choose to take better care of my body.<br />
<br />
Let me set this straight - I am NOT a paint-throwing member of PETA. I love animals but I did NOT choose to become vegan to make a statement in support of animal rights. L.A. has NOT turned me into a tree-hugging hippie, chewing on grass and bark while meditating and "expanding my mind". I did NOT wake up one morning, look in the mirror, and discover I was morbidly obese. But I DID notice that I hadn't been as energetic as I would like and that I did have some stomach issues (nothing serious) that could be attributed to eating too many foods that my body has trouble digesting - gluten, dairy, and certain kinds of meat being the chief offenders. Why did I not realize sooner that my diet could contribute so strongly to how I feel in my everyday life? It seems logical enough. The bottom line is, I want to feel alive: physically and mentally, and with a clear conscience.<br />
<br />
It has occurred to me recently, as I watch more and more of my friends have beautiful babies, that the time for Liza and I to start thinking about starting our own family is not far off (calm down everyone, it's not what you're thinking). I have begun to think about what kind of parent I want to be, especially in regards to what we'll feed our child. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with many children and to observe how their different families functioned, especially when it came to food. A grueling schedule often forced parents to bring meals to their children between rehearsal and performances. Given the time constraints, some parents had their children eat healthier than others, but there wasn't any consistently poor eating - except for one. Our youngest child actor was all of 6 years old and was either bouncing off the walls or sleeping with his eyes open. The production team of the show asked his parents to sen him to the theatre with food to give him enough energy to last through a three hour performance. He arrived the next night with an enormous bag containing popcorn, chocolate pudding, two cheeseburgers, fries, lollipops, and a chocolate eclair the length of his arm. And there were other nights when he would be sent with nothing to eat at all, relying on the production team or other good-hearted members of the acting company to supply his meals for him. It was incomprehensible to me how a parent, in good conscience, could send their small child to work (yes, it is still a job, no matter how young you are) without proper nourishment. Not being a parent myself, I tried not to judge <i>too</i> harshly. But I don't want my child to grow up to be a statistic, and then have to reform his eating habits the way I am currently attempting to do. I can certainly expose him/her to healthier foods at a younger age. But how can I tell him/her to eat his/her vegetables so he/she can grow to be healthy while he/she watches me eat my vegetables in the form of the sauce on a slice of Papa John's Meat Lovers Pizza?<br />
<br />
My mother is not packing my lunch each day and making my dinner each night. No one is here to tell me to go outside and get some fresh air, and I don't take phys ed class anymore. It is about time I take responsibility and care for my well-being. Although I want to live as long as humanly possible, I don't want to live in pain and discomfort in my golden years - especially if I can prevent future aches and illnesses in my younger, more active years.<br />
<br />
So, I'm attempting to start from scratch. No more junk food. No more soda. No more meat. No more dairy. No more processed sugar. As few processed foods as possible. I'm getting back to the basics and feeling great. I may not be as athletic as I used to be but I'm still getting an <i style="font-weight: bold;">intense</i> hour or more of exercise every day. The plan is to treat my body in such a way that it will have no reason to rebel against me. For the first time, I want to be smarter and more conscientious about how I treat my body. For the first time, I have a "Why"; I finally want to be able to respect myself and the well-informed decisions I make so that my family, friends, and future children will know that I am living and eating responsibly.<br />
<br />
Which brings me to the reason I started this blog. I want to involve all of you in my adventure towards becoming a healthier person. I'd like to be able to share my progress and even some amazing recipes and exercises that I stumble across, or interesting facts about wellness. Let me be clear - I am NOT here to preach or grandstand. I don't want anyone to feel that I am attacking their lifestyle choices in any way. I have clearly been on both sides of the fence and do NOT aim to offend. I believe it is everyone's right to choose what and how they want to eat - as long as they are making conscious choices rather than just going with the flow because it's easy. Rather than drown you in my personal beliefs, this blog is meant to inspire discussion and conversation. So please, if anyone has any comments, advice, questions, feel free to voice them in a respectful manner. I am still very new to the health and nutrition lifestyle and I would love to discuss my journey with all of you so we can learn together! And I would love even more if you were all able to talk to each other (again, in a respectful manner, please). No need to be shy around here. The more we can discuss, the more we can learn. To quote a line from the musical <u>1776</u>, "In all my years I ain't never heard, seen, nor smelled an issue that was so dangerous it couldn't be talked about."<br />
<br />
I want to thank you all for reading, ask you to come back and check out my new posts (I'm hoping to post at least once a week), and invite you to talk to me and each other. That's why I'm doing this whole blogging thing in the first place. Call Webster's - I think I have come up with a solid definition:<br />
<br />
Re-con-struc-ted Car-ni-vore<br />
{ree-k<i>uh</i>n-<b>struhkt</b>-ed <b>kahr</b>-n<i>uh-vo</i>hr}<br />
-<i>noun</i><br />
1. one who, at one time or another, treated his/her overall health thoughtlessly and is finally, through a bit of education, experience, and experimentation, taking control of his/her well-beingMarc Baron Ginsburg, The Reconstructed Carnivorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00232820618158136867noreply@blogger.com4