Wednesday February 10, 2010Spice up Valentine's Day
Aphrodisiacs, named after the Greek goddess of love Aphrodite, are foods, drinks or drugs that are said to increase sexual desire or performance. There are many alleged aphrodisiacs. We recently relegated oysters and champagne to the aphrodisiac myth list. In our research, we also found some foods that should be added to your Valentine’s Day menu (or when cooped up during a snow storm hint hint).
Nutmeg- Chinese women for centuries have believed nutmeg increases sexual desire. A Swiss study looked at nutmeg’s potential and found it increased mounting behavior and mating performance (in mice). Sprinkle nutmeg in a cup of tea, over poached pears or baked apples or in the cocoa recipe below.
Chili peppers- chili peppers get their heat from capsaicin. Capsaicin stimulates nerve endings and raises our pulse rate. Spicy foods also trigger the release of endorphins, which are feel good chemicals. Red chilis are hotter than green.
And not to worry, chocolate has some legitimate reasons why it’s considered an aphrodisiac. Pick dark chocolate versus milk or white because it has a higher cocoa content. And men…sorry women are more susceptible to chocolate’s effects.
go back to top Unleash your Inner Olympian
While most of us, let’s say all reading this, aren’t competing in Vancouver we can still be inspired by the Olympics. We have a lot of clients training for spring marathons and triathlons and many others who remain active with winter sports. We recently gave a lecture entitled “Top 10 Winter Training Table Foods” and below are few highlights. Friday’s blog will focus on additional training foods.
Soba Noodles- made from buckwheat. Buckwheat is a whole grain and is gluten free. Check food labels to be sure no wheat flour is added to the buckwheat. Soba noodles have 6 to 7 grams of protein per serving, are high in fiber and a great alternative to white pasta.
Cocoa- as you read above, cocoa in chocolate may help you on Valentine’s day, but it’s also excellent for your cardiovascular system and a great post-exercise recovery food. Try our Recovery Cocoa: heat 1 cup lowfat organic milk or almond milk with a cinnamon stick or a dash of cayenne until hot but not boiling (3-5 min). Remove from heat stir in 2 tbs unsweetened cocoa powder and 1.5 tsp agave nectar.
go back to top February Lunch Challenge
For February we’re offering up a challenge. We challenge you to pick a week and make all of your lunches that week. You will find you’ll save money, calories and probably enjoy your lunch more. Check our blog for our favorite lunch recipes and let us know how you’re doing. Email Market Melissa with lunch questions, for recipe ideas or to join a Let’s Do Lunch market tour.
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