Gaia: Integral Vegn - Integral Vegn Posts

Re: Friday Five Snacks

http://evolotus.gaia.com — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 03:25:59 GMT

1) Do you like chocolates?

Yes, but I don't *love* chocolate. I don't have much of a sweet tooth.

2) Do you eat carrot sticks?

Yes, if there aren't any other choices. Not a big fan of raw carrots.

3) What was your favorite snack as a child, or one of your favorites?

Chips and salsa - breakfast of champions!

4) Do you like late-night snacking?

Yes, but "late night" for me is between about 8-9!

5) If you had to pick a snack right now would you choose a) pretzels, b) chips, c) chocolate, d) celery with peanut butter, or something totally different :) chips & veggie dip is my choice.

Pretzels all the way. They're practically a food group for me.

Vegan Thanksgiving!

http://kathysmith.gaia.com — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:16:55 GMT

Let us know of any tips on having a Vegan Thanksgiving.

We are eating left overs at our home and I found some recipes on this website to help for this holiday. Add your favorite dish! May this day and all others have things we are thankful for ...

Friday Five Snacks

http://kathysmith.gaia.com — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:12:58 GMT

I have a little secret...while I've been working today I've been snacking on a small bag of chocolate chips. Shhhh! Jessica

We all have our snack food, those tiny in-between meals. Some are healthy, some are not as healthy, and that's ok, right? I know what you're thinking about me and my chocolate chips ;) but hey, they are organic and fair-trade. I remember when I was a kid I would stay at my grandmother's house and sneak into the fridge where she always kept chocolate kisses and minature Hershey bars...I loved that.

So, share with us about your favorite snacks in this week's Friday Five...

1) Do you like chocolates? yes

2) Do you eat carrot sticks? yes

3) What was your favorite snack as a child, or one of your favorites? ice cream

4) Do you like late-night snacking? just when renting a movie

5) If you had to pick a snack right now would you choose a) pretzels, b) chips, c) chocolate, d) celery with peanut butter, or something totally different :) chips & veggie dip is my choice.

Add yours...

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://organics.gaia.com — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:08:30 GMT

We tried these this past week... GREAT THREAD filled with gold.

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://nirel4peace.gaia.com — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 07:56:41 GMT

Thank you all so much - this thread has been so informative and useful!!

Namaste
~Nirel

God's Pharmacy

http://kathysmith.gaia.com — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 09:05:33 GMT

God's Pharmacy... A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris & radiating lines look just like the human eye… & YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to & function of the eyes.

A Tomato has four chambers & is red. The heart has four chambers & is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine & are indeed pure heart & blood food.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell & all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart & blood vitalizing food.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left & right hemisphere, upper cerebrums & lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans actually heal & help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb & many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
Avocadoes, Eggplant & Pears target the health & function of the womb & cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, & prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied & named about 141 of them).

Figs are full of seeds & hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of sperm as well to overcome male sterility

Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas & actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.

Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries

Oranges, Grapefruits, & other Citrus fruits look just l ike the mammary glands of the female & actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Onions look like the body's cells. Research shows onions clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. Garlic also helps eliminate waste materials & dangerous free radicals from the body.

cool stuff…

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://kathysmith.gaia.com — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:21:02 GMT

Permission to repost:
Lammas Meal - Mythology and Magick

Posted on Jul 31st, 2009 by Phoenix

Tomorrow many pagans and witches will be celebrating Lammas or Lughnasadh. It marks the beginning of the harvest season and has its origin within Celtic and Roman tradition.

Celtic mythology is filled with stories that tell of the symbolic significance of grain. In one, a young boy drinks by accident hazelnuts from the magical cauldron of the Welsh Goddess Cerridwen. He shapeshifts into a hare. She shapeshifts into a greyhound and chases him. He shapeshifts into a grain of wheat, but then Cerridwen, shapeshifts into a black hen. She eats the wheat and gives birth to a boy, who becomes the great bard and poet Talisen. That is how Carridwen is the Goddess of Death, Regeneration, Grain and Poetic Inspiration.

Typical herbs used for magick on this day are:

goldenrod
sunflower
myrtle
rose
wheat
corn,
Irish moss
oat

Considering that this is also the time for Berry Harvest, including Berry Cobbler or similar in the meal of celebration is common.

My family and I will be celebrating together, and our meal as planned will be
Butternut Squash
Herb-Roasted Potatoes
Herb Chicken (for the meat eaters in the family)
Sweet Raspberry Filled Corn Muffins
Banana Bread

Our table is decorated with offering stones and corn dollies that we made in the days prior. I will post a video shortly on how to make these.

Blessed Be!

P.S. For a good resource on holidays of the year in the pagan traditions check out Laurie Cabots Book "Celebrate The Earth"

Re: Milk Alternatives: Easy Greening

http://anuradha.gaia.com — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:25:46 GMT

oh great, off to take a peek! Thank you!

Milk Alternatives: Easy Greening

http://Meenakshi.gaia.com — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:09:29 GMT

The article gives the reasons for switching from dairy milk and suggests alternatives, as well as what to look out for [excess sugar, for instance]

Milk Alternatives: Easy Greening a Care2 favorite by Melissa Breyer

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://kathysmith.gaia.com — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 22:02:11 GMT

Thanks for sharing.

I found this in Oprah
Learn More About Dr. Perricone's Superfoods:
Açaí
The Allium Family
Barley
Beans and Lentils
Buckwheat
Green Foods
Hot Peppers
Nuts and Seeds
Sprouts
Yogurt and Kefir

and discovered 16 super foods on this msn site.

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://LizzyL.gaia.com — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:43:40 GMT

Becuase of my diabetes, I have to eat in a balanced way. Since going veggie/vegan(and I am getting more vegan all the time)I have found that I can actually eat less and be full. Of course I eat less JUNK!
Since I gave up meat, eggs and dairy, I feel alot less tired and bloated.
I still get a little gas from beans though.
Also, though my bodymind practices(yoga, chi meditation) I am learning to listen to my body in a whole new way.
I am realizing that the "hungry" feelings have nothing to do with food-nine times out of ten, I am using food to fill another emotional need.

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://kathysmith.gaia.com — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 18:29:33 GMT

Putting in one or two a day on the 10 healthy summer foods is a positive habit.

When was the last time you prepared a meal that included just what you wanted to eat, ate until you were satisfied, and completely savored and enjoyed the experience without guilt?

Mindful eating retrains the brain and the body to have an intuitive sense of hunger and satisfaction and to develop a balanced and joyful relationship with food. Learning to eat mindfully is a lifelong process that varies under different conditions, such as changes in stress levels, health states, and age. Don’t beat yourself up if you struggle occasionally with mindful eating and nutrition. Just remember that you’re only one meal away from regaining your body’s equilibrium. Here are a few tips to get started:

Eat at least three times a day. Aim for a balanced combination of carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fat every time you eat.

Try to take five more minutes than normal to eat your food. Notice some aspect of what you are eating—the color, texture, aroma, or taste.The next time you have a desire for a particular food, get the best quality version of that food you can afford—whole grain, locally grown, all-natural, or organic.

Read the hunger scale, and before your next meal or snack, ask yourself, “How hungry am I? How do I know I’m hungry? What cues is my body sending me?"

Start a mindful food journal. Record your meals as well as your hunger level and emotional state while eating.

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://LizzyL.gaia.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:29:25 GMT

While I am waiting for my garden to come in, I am out gathering any wild fruit I can. It is amazing how much wild fruit goes to waste in my area. The wild strawberries are peaking now and the blackberries are coming in. I have also been gathering from some cherry trees that no one seems to care about.
It's weird that no one seems to take advantage of these things that just spring up in vacent lots and on the local nature trail.
Of course I don't strip the bushes. I leave enough for the rest of the food chain.
I think it's just some of my smattering of native American blood. I only take what I will use.
Boy those berries are good and I don't mind scratches and bug bites--and it gives me an excuse to ride my bike more often.

Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

http://Meenakshi.gaia.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:53:43 GMT

Eating fresh, local, and in-season foods couldn’t be any easier than it is during the summertime. Fruit seems to drip off trees, vines burst with red and golden tomatoes, and yellow zucchini blossoms give way to long tubes of green. Whether you get your goods from the farmer’s market, a roadside stand, or your own backyard, the following ten seasonal fruits and vegetables are some of the healthiest and easiest to incorporate into your diet. What’s more, most of them are at their cheapest during the summer—running about a mere dollar or so per serving—making eating well as inexpensive as it is enjoyable.

1. Watermelons Composed of about 90 percent water, sweet watermelons are an easy way to stay hydrated during the hot summer months. They also pack in nutrients, including vitamin A, B6, and C. In addition, watermelon, like most melons, is rich in antioxidants such as lycopene and citrulline. Researchers have also recently found that watermelon has “Viagra-like” properties, helping to relax blood vessels and even increase libido. As if eating it wasn’t exciting enough! Blended watermelon makes a refreshing drink, served plain or with a kick.

2. Tomatoes A vine-ripened tomato, plucked straight from the plant, is arguably the ultimate summertime treat. (Peaches and cherries also vie for the title.) And full of vitamin C, beta carotene, and lycopene, tomatoes are nutritional powerhouses. Their versatility makes them easy to incorporate into many meals, and because they’re so prolific during the summer, farm fresh fruits are usually well-priced. Try them in pico-de-gallo salsa, cool down on a hot evening with healthful gazpacho, or try a simple caprese salad.

3. Berries are at their sweetest and juiciest during the warm summer months, and because there are so many varieties out there, you’ll never run out of options and tastes. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, gooseberries, blackberries … the list goes on. All berries are low in calories, high in vitamin C (with strawberries being the highest), and a good source of antioxidants and fiber. Some berries, like raspberries, can be relatively pricey, but if you’re near the woods or even an unkempt yard, free berry options abound! They’re great in sweet classics like blueberry muffins .

4. Peppers Though peppers are available year-round, they are most flavorful and inexpensive during the summer, when they’re in season. Sweet bell peppers, especially the yellow and red varieties, are packed with vitamin A, C, B6, and fiber. Chili peppers are no wimps when it comes to nutrition, either. In addition to containing the same vitamins and antioxidants as sweet peppers, spicy peppers have been shown to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Sweet peppers are delicious skewered and barbequed; chili peppers give this nopalita salad a bite.

5. Peaches Growing up I had a peach tree in the backyard, and during July and August the tree would become so laden with fruit, we had to prop up the branches with sticks. I used to average around two peaches a day, and their sweet, juicy flavor is one that, for me, as with many people, is closely associated with summer. Taste alone is reason to eat them, but they’re also high in vitamin C and A, a good source of fiber and antioxidants, and contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which might prevent age-related macular degeneration. Try them in smoothies and in peach cobbler.

6. Summer squash, including zucchini, crookneck, and patty pan (roundish ones) are high in manganese and vitamin C, and a good source of many other nutrients, including vitamin A and B. They’re low in calories and since most squash plants produce more bounty than one person can handle, they can be easy to come by in garden-friendly neighborhoods. At my local farmer’s market, I was able to pick up four small squash for one dollar—not bad! Perfect in zucchini lasagna.

7. Basil’s heady fragrance lends itself to numerous dishes and goes well with another summertime favorite, tomato. In addition to adding a flavorful punch, it’s also a good source of vitamin K, A, and calcium. Studies have also found that fresh basil has anti-microbial properties. Usually a buck or two per bunch, basil is easily incorporated into dishes, as in this fresh corn salad or homemade basil-infused oil.

8. Figs Though some are averse to their texture, for those that love figs, they are a heavenly delicacy. Available from June into fall, figs are a favorite of Mediterranean climates like California. They range in color from the blackish-purple Mission to the greenish-yellow Calimyrna. High in potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, figs go well in sweet and savory dishes and are a nice accompaniment to goat cheese.

9. Plums Never lacking in the variety of color, textures, and tastes, plums season lasts from about May to October, and during this time you’ll find a huge assortment in the markets. Plums, like apricots, peaches, and nectarines, are considered drupes, or fruits that have a hard stone pit. High in vitamin C, A, and fiber, they are also rich in antioxidants. The dried form is best known for its laxative properties. Plums are plentifully and most people with trees don’t know what to do with the excess, so obtaining them for free is easy, if they grow in your area. With all the leftovers, they can be eaten straight, sliced in a fruit tart, or made into plum jam.

10. Green Beans Green or string beans are usually found year-round at large grocery stores but the summer and early fall is when you’ll find them at their best—crunchy and extra sweet. Rich vitamin K, C, manganese, and a good source of beta-carotene make them an excellent addition to a summer’s meal. An easy side dish is this green beans with roasted almonds.

Truthfully, it’s hard to limit this list to just ten. Almost all of the fresh produce you’ll find in the summer is healthful, and it’s just a matter of what’s available—cherries rather than berries, nectarines instead of peaches, or parsley instead of basil. If it’s colorful, fresh, and in season, you really can’t go wrong.

By Brie Caldman

Re: How Long?

http://thatgal.gaia.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:53:51 GMT

Congrats! :)

Re: How Long?

http://aprinsa.gaia.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:41:10 GMT

Over eight months. Went vegetarian, and then vegan, in October. No looking back.

Re: DC VegFest 2009

http://aprinsa.gaia.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:27:11 GMT

Sweet! Thanks, Lee. I added it as a Gathering. :)

http://www.gaia.com/events/4787/dc-vegfest-2009/5973

Is it just me, or are there no other gatherings posted?

Re: How Long?

http://thatgal.gaia.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:13:49 GMT

Hi Lee,

Yes, I read in other threads that you grow your own food and I think it's awesome! You are very lucky to have the opportunity to do so (along with that green thumb). :)) I've never grown my own food, not even herbs, mainly for a lack of garden/balcony. But maybe one day I'll be able to do that. My mom is the one with the green thumb in the family. She takes care of their garden but mainly grows flowers and stuff (our garden looks pretty wild though), I have to admit that I've never been very interested in gardening... But I admire people who substantially grow their own vegetables. Certainly very green. And green I like. :)

As for vegetarianism, I think it should always be a choice, never an obligation. If someone "lapses" - so what?! I personally have long given up all radicalism about vegetarianism. When I was 17 I actually ate chicken once or twice while I was living in India (the Tibetan friends I lived with were crazy meat eaters and ate it all the time). Both times I was drunk but damn, I felt like it so I had it. Didn't feel very bad about it either. I can't imagine me eating meat again - ever and I don't know what triggered me into doing it then but it's not something I ponder about.

I don't take any substitutes. And I'm neither sickish nor skinny nor anything else. Here in Sri Lanka I take vitamins and when I do sports, I take magnesium. C'est ca.

Re: How Long?

http://organics.gaia.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:56:49 GMT

Funny thing about the user interface and dated reads Jenny! Most of the things on this site are timeless so thanks for pushing the lower threads and coming up with this gem. When vegan/vegetarian falls out and depending on one's discipline they practice, it's just ok if it does once in a while. Please don't feel any guilt. I know I was upset with the news when PETA made a comment about Obama killing a fly. That is not the way for that group to have good judgement - com'on! That was where I draw the line in the dirt.

That is great that you have been a vegetarian so long. Do you have to take D3 or something for protein like fishoil? Just curious. I have been one because I grow my own food. We buy celery at the store is all. Knowing how far food travels to get to the market its great to grow in your own garden or do a local farmer's market or use a health food store. it does take discipline. We all know things like "I need more green today" feeling. I use my instincts with what color veggies do I want today.

Another good thing is not having tempting foods around. That helps me.
Thanks for asking!

Re: DC VegFest 2009

http://organics.gaia.com — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:48:00 GMT

Thanks Louella,
You can always post Gatherings here to reach those not in this group!
Have a fun time. Lee

Gaia: Integral Veg*n - Integral Veg*n Posts

Re: Friday Five Snacks

Vegan Thanksgiving!

Friday Five Snacks

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

God's Pharmacy

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

Re: Milk Alternatives: Easy Greening

Milk Alternatives: Easy Greening

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

Re: Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

Ten Healthy Summer Foods That Won’t Break the Bank

Re: How Long?

Re: How Long?

Re: DC VegFest 2009

Re: How Long?

Re: How Long?

Re: DC VegFest 2009

Gaia: Integral Vegn - Integral Vegn Posts