Tag: healthy lifestyle

Top Food Trends of 2022 – Part 2

On April 17, 2022

In Berries, Breakfast, Dessert, Fiber, Fruit, Fun food projects, Grocery store, Ketogenic Diet, Veggies

Let’s continue with the anticipated food trends for 2022.

Chewy Food
In Asia, chewy foods that require strong jaw muscles are revered, and the texture is starting to make its way into American cuisine due to the cultural influence of social media.
Aside from boba, the concept of chewy food has also expanded to include rice cakes, ice cream, and tteokbokki. My Mochi ice cream is a small but oh-so-delicious treat that’s made from ice cream and peanut butter. It’s the most popular novelty food in the US.

Coffee Alternatives
Due to the weather conditions and rising temperatures, the coffee harvests have been affected. The price of coffee has also increased due to the limited supply.
Alt coffee is also an increasing trend. There are also single-serve tea bags that are caffeine-free. These products are very similar to traditional coffee.
A golden milk drink is also becoming a new favorite. This drink is made with milk and spices, and it’s usually served hot.

Allergy-Friendly Foods
In the US, there are around 32 million people with food allergies. It has been estimated that one in thirteen kids have at least one food allergy. Since there are few safe options in the grocery store, parents are more likely to create their kids’ food.
There are also individuals who make it themselves by creating products that are 100% allergen-free. Christine Allen started Mo’Pweeze after she couldn’t find anything that was suitable for her kids with food allergies.
Partake Foods is an online store that sells allergy-friendly mixes and cookies. There are also apps that help consumers find establishments that offer allergen-free products.
The number of people with food allergies has increased significantly. This is also evidenced by the number of user comments on allergy-friendly food blogs.

Eating to support mental health
In the past two years, 48% of Americans have focused on improving their mental and emotional health. If so, then it’s time to start consuming more functional food and drinks.
From energy drinks to detox and recovery aids, there’s a whole slew of products that promise to improve your health. Take a look at these products and accept that a new healthy ritual is just a part of a whole wellness puzzle.
Giada De Laurentiis, a celebrity French television personality, has also launched a new show called Simply Giada, which is inspired by her book “Eat Better, Feel Better.”

Indigenous restaurants
This list is mainly comprised of individuals who are teaching us that food is important. Many of them are Native and Indigenous activists, chefs, and makers. This list is also for those who are underrepresented and have a hard time accessing foodways who have therefore fought for food sovereignty.
Expect to see more people interested in the food that Native and Indigenous chefs are cooking. We especially admire Crystal Wahpepah, who is the first Native American to compete on “Chopped.”
She has created seasonal menus that feature dishes made from local corn and buffalo. Another noteworthy example is Sean Sherman, the creator of The Sioux Chef, a modern Native American restaurant in Minneapolis.
You won’t find traditional colonial ingredients on menus at many establishments. Instead, you’ll find dishes made with indigenous-produced ingredients.

Ice Cream Snacks
The disruption of working and home life has caused us to eat differently. Since we’re now focused on consuming more than just food, we’re also consuming frozen dessert bars as a snack.
Instead of being served ice cream, frozen treats are becoming more prevalent. These are low-calorie, individually wrapped, hand-held ice creams that are usually less than 500 calories.

Top Food Trends for 2022

By Edita Kaye

On February 21, 2022

In Breakfast, Dessert, Fruit, Grocery store, Veggies

The pandemic has changed the way we cook, and it’s given rise to new challenges and opportunities to reconnect with our kitchen. You may have gained a more refined palate while you mastered making silly mini pancakes. During this period, many of you also took on a serious social and racial equality stand. You also supported the efforts of local communities that are reclaiming food sovereignty.

After years of studying the trends for 2022, we decided to focus on what matters most to you now: what makes you happy and how we can make better food and beverage choices better for the planet.

Condiment Obsession

According to a survey conducted, 92% of American families plan on continuing to eat at home. However, cooking fatigue is real. If you’re not cooking as often because you don’t have the energy, then it’s time to step away from the kitchen and take a deep breath.

Due to the endless variety of food companies offering bold and diverse flavors, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to satisfying your hunger. Condiments are a great way to enhance taste and introduce bold flavors into family favorites.

The New Green Kitchen

A lot of people start their eco-friendly lifestyle in the kitchen. There are plenty of sustainable products out there that will make your life easier and less cluttered. One example of this is Stasher, a company that makes reusable storage bags.

Food waste is a large contributor to waste in the US, comprising 21% of all landfill. This is why composting is so important to reducing food waste.

The Food Network has launched a campaign called Combating Food Waste, which encourages people to turn their organic waste into something that can be used in their gardens and houses.

Underground Ordering

During the height of the pandemic, almost 8 million people were out of work. As a result, many states loosened restrictions so that people could sell “cottage food” directly to their customers. This was the key to Eric Huang, who was able to save his family’s restaurant after transitioning to a direct-to-consumer model.

Expect more restaurants to start using social media platforms to connect with their customers and expand their reach beyond the traditional restaurant model.

Fishless Fish

People are starting to understand the environmental impacts of illegal fishing. Due to the rising cases of ocean pollution, the term sustainable seafood has become outdated and unreliable.

According to a study conducted by the Yale Center for Communication, the carbon footprint associated with farming tilapia and catfish are equivalent to that of beef.

There are plenty of options out there that are both fish-free and plant-based. These products could be considered sustainable alternatives to traditional seafood.

Grocery Loyalty Pays

In the new world of grocery shopping, we’re using apps to order and pay for our food. While some basic items are cheaper, the cost is increasing due to the rising cost of food.

With grocery prices increasing at a 3.5% rate, many companies are revamping their loyalty programs to give members even more benefits. These plans can be found at Walmart, Albertson’s, and Kroger.

Some apps are also giving users exclusive perks, such as free shipping and delivery. They also have various bonuses, such as double gas points and discounts on prescriptions.

Tips For A Healthier You In 2022

By Edita Kaye

On December 23, 2021

In Uncategorized

After a challenging year, many Americans are ready to start making resolutions for the coming year. While many of them are focused on improving their mental and physical health, many others are planning on improving their diet and exercise. Thankfully, all of these go hand-in-hand. Below are some tips for a healthier version of you in the next year.

Get Exercise Regularly

There are numerous benefits of getting regular exercise. Being physically fit can help improve your mental and cardiovascular health. It can also reduce depression and improve your mood. Being active can help prevent mental health issues during the pandemic and during normal years.

Eat Healthy Meals

In addition to eating lots of vegetables and fruits, a diet low in red meat can help prevent chronic diseases and boost your blood cholesterol levels. It can also improve your risk of cancer. Aim for protein in the morning to keep your blood sugar in check and prevent it from getting too high. This can also help control appetite and prevent diabetes.

Get Enough Sleep

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted people’s sleep patterns, it’s still important to get at least eight hours of sleep a night to prevent infection and keep you mentally well. Try to set and keep a regular sleep schedule. Avoid caffeine and electronics before you head to bed.

Protect Yourself From Viruses

Getting a flu shot and a COVID-19 shot is the first step in the prevention of illnesses. If you feel sick, stay home so you can rest and avoid spreading the illness to others. Be sure to wash your hands often and wear a mask when around crowds of people.

Make A Plan

No matter what resolutions you set for the new year, it will be easier to stick to them if you make a plan and follow it. Create incentives, tell other people, write down goals and own up to what you want to change. All of these will help you stay accountable.

Most Americans are more than ready to say goodbye to this year. It has been difficult to stick to resolutions while going through the pandemic. Following some of these tips will help you get and stay healthier in the coming year and beyond.

Holiday Gift Ideas for Foodies

By Edita Kaye

On October 25, 2021

In Dessert, Fiber, Fruit, Fun food projects

Oh! Nuts Dried Fruit Gift Basket | Healthy No Sugar Added Huge Assortment of Dried Fruit Gourmet Holiday Gift

 🍎 VEGAN, ALL NATURAL & NO SUGAR ADDED: Our nutritious dried fruit is packed with healthy vitamins, minerals, and fiber for the ultimate diet-friendly indulgence. No additives, naturally sweet, zero sugar added, dairy-free, and vegan safe.

 🎀 UNIQUE TRAY TURNS INTO BAKSET: Snacks come presented on pretty wooden tray that folds from a countertop trivet into a standing fruit basket. Makes a fun display for holiday dinners, family parties, corporate events and more.

Link https://www.amazon.com/Oh-Nuts-Christmas-Assorted-Thanksgiving/dp/B07VZXHTKH/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+gift+ideas&qid=1634048570&sr=8-5

Pukka Herbs Support Selection Gift Box, Collection of Organic Herbal Teas,

 45 sachets of incredible organic herbal teas selected from the Pukka range for seasonal wellness.

 Elderberry and Echinacea – Lemon, Ginger and Manuka Honey – Turmeric Glow – Blackcurrant Beauty – Three Ginger

 Bring these incredible herbs alive by infusing in freshly boiled water for up to 15 minutes

 100% organically grown and ethically sourced ingredients. Vegetarian, kosher and non-GM

Link https://www.amazon.com/Pukka-Support-Selection-Collection-Organic/dp/B08H2QWGWK/ref=sr_1_4_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634048845&sr=8-4-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzQ0FVVUNJQjAyR1BSJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDcyNjE1MVo3QU9SU01GT1dWNyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTgzMzkzMlZEOEFURFBDUzdGWiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

Oh! Nuts 12 Variety Mixed Nut Gift Basket, Holiday Freshly Roasted Healthy Gourmet Snack Gifts | Premium Wood Tray

 PRESENT A GIFT THAT LEAVES A MEMORABLE IMPRESSION: This signature Oh! Nuts rustic wooden tray is filled to the brim with healthy goodies. The lidded container is neatly divided into 12 compartments featuring an assortment of HIGH-QUALITY GRADE A FRESH NUTS. Replace the traditional candy, chocolates, and baked goods with healthier, trendier treats

 FESTIVE NUTS BURSTING WITH UNIQUE FLAVOR: You and your family will love to snack on this tasty sampler of sweet, salty, and savory goodness. The jumbo cashews, pecans and filberts are freshly roasted to perfection and then slightly salted to enhance their truly delicious taste, the pistachios are rich, nutty, with pleasing earthy undertones and the pumpkin and sunflower seeds provide a fun mouthful of assorted crunchy goodies.

Link https://www.amazon.com/Baskets-Valentine-Variety-Freshly-Roasted/dp/B01KKOZJ42/ref=sr_1_14?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634050582&sr=8-14

Urban Accents MOVIE NIGHT™ Popcorn Kernels and Popcorn Seasoning Variety Pack (set of 8) – 3 Non-GMO Popcorn Kernel Packs and 5 Gourmet Popcorn Snack Seasoning- Perfect Gift for any Occasion

 BURSTING WITH FLAVOR: We’ve included a popcorn flavoring for every taste! White Cheddar, Sweet & Salty Kettlecorn, Chili Lime, Buttery Caramel and Sizzling Sriracha gourmet popcorn seasoning.

 POPCORN GIFT SET: Give this delicious popcorn kernel and seasoning set at your next dinner party or holiday gathering – it’s the perfect foodie gift for any occasion!

LINK https://www.amazon.com/Urban-Accents-Popcorn-Kernels-Seasoning/dp/B07JN5467R/ref=sr_1_27?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634051018&sr=8-27

A Gift Inside Chocolate Caramel and Crunch Grand Gift Basket for Christmas

 Best selling deliciousness: thousands upon thousands of gift-givers can’t be wrong! One taste of our prized gourmet, gooey caramel corn, including both straight caramel and real-chocolate drizzled, generously heaped into this basket full of favorites, and you will understand why

 Handmade chocolates, handmade caramel corn. We pop fresh popcorn, melt real Challenge butter and caramel, and drench it in the rich, thick goodness. The melters are full of real chocolates, pouring out pans of chocolate barks, pressing whole almonds into the warm, thick Slabs. Nothing but the best will do for our favorite people-our customers-giving to their favorite people

LINKhttps://www.amazon.com/Chocolate-Caramel-Crunch-Grand-Basket/dp/B004D9XYWU/ref=sr_1_30?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634050822&sr=8-30

Getting Started on the Keto Diet

By Edita Kaye

On July 2, 2019

In Ketogenic Diet

The ketogenic diet (also known simply as “keto”) is a high fat, low carb diet that seems to be everywhere right now. People who follow a ketogenic diet usually report losing weight quickly without feeling deprived, as well as other benefits such as mental clarity, improved digestion, and stable energy levels.

But Isn’t Fat Bad for Me?

It was once thought that fat was bad for us. It’s important to recognize, however, that there are several different types of fat. Some types of fats are considered healthy (even by those who don’t follow the ketogenic diet plan). Unsaturated fats found in avocados, fish, nuts, and seeds are considered healthy across the board.

If you’re considering jumping on the bandwagon, here are some tips to help you get started right.

What to Avoid

The goal of a keto diet is to get your body into a state where it burns fat for energy rather than sugar. This state is called ketosis and is where the name “keto” originates. Ketosis is accomplished by limiting carbohydrates and increasing the body’s fat intake. That means avoiding sugar (including high-sugar fruits), grains, starches, beans, legumes, root vegetables, and alcohol.

What to Eat

Instead, you should be fueling your body with healthy fats, such as grass-fed beef, fatty fish like salmon or tuna, nuts, seeds, avocados, and healthy oils like olive oil. You can also eat cheese and other dairy products on a keto diet, but many experts recommend eating dairy sparingly. Be sure to also consume low-carb vegetables like most greens, onions, and tomatoes.

Best Practices

To succeed with the keto diet, it’s best to plan out your meals and snacks ahead of time. Many of your favorite dishes can be made in a ketogenic way by substituting ingredients. For example, you’ll find recipes like pancakes, pizza, and even cupcakes in keto cookbooks and online. They are mostly made using healthy ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, and alternative natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.

It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting a new plan. Not every plan is right for everyone! If your doctor gives you the green light, then go for it! Do your research, get your hands on a great keto cookbook, and prepare your food ahead of time. Eliminate temptations from your home and fill your pantry with healthy, fatty foods. That’s your recipe for success!

Ketogenic Cookbooks Recommended by Edita Kaye

By Edita Kaye

On August 7, 2018

In Ketogenic Diet

When you’ve decided to live a Ketogenic lifestyle, the best place to find new recipes is in a cookbook! Here are a few of my favorites that will give you new ideas and fit into your lifestyle.

The Easy 5-Ingredient Ketogenic Diet Cookbook: Low-Carb, High-Fat Recipes for Busy People on the Keto Diet – by Jen Fisch

Jen Fisch, the blogger behind Keto in The City shares her favorite keto meals for your hectic life. As a busy mom, she knows how difficult it can be to cook healthy meals daily. These 130 recipes truly simplify the ketogenic diet. It includes one-pot meals, meals that can be made in less than 30 minutes, and even 5-ingredient meals. It’s the perfect resource for your next breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack!

The Essential Keto Cookbook: 124+ Ketogenic Diet Recipes – by Louise Hendon and Christopher Kelly

If you’re looking for more than 124 keto recipes and 200 pages of full-color, this is the cookbook for you. It features a complete ketogenic meal plan and food list to take any guesswork out of the equation. The authors featured recipes that are sugar-free, low-carb, gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free and legume-free, helping those with diet restrictions to stay on track in a tasty way.

The One Pot Ketogenic Diet Cookbook: 100+ Easy Weeknight Meals for Your Skillet, Slow Cooker, Sheet Pan, and More – by Liz Williams

If you’re trying to follow a healthy diet with a busy schedule, sometimes one-pot recipes can be a lifesaver. This cookbook features over 100 keto recipes with clear instructions that will make your mouth water. The book features no-mess meals, quick meals, simple ingredients and additional tips and information to help you stay on track.

Quick & Easy Ketogenic Cooking: Meal Plans and Time Saving Paleo Recipes to Inspire Health and Shed Weight – by Maria Emmerich

Maria Emmerich is a nutritionist and popular food blogger who takes the guesswork out of ketogenic cooking with this book. It includes more than 170 recipes, and also gives an in-depth look at the science behind the keto diet. She includes tips for success and eating at restaurants, as well.

The Wicked Good Ketogenic Diet Cookbook: Easy, Whole Food Keto Recipes for Any Budget – by Amanda C. Hughes

This cookbook is a great roadmap for navigating through the keto diet. Hughes especially focuses on sticking to the diet without breaking your budget. She stresses that a keto diet isn’t just a fad; it is a lifestyle change. In this comprehensive book with 175 recipes, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the keto diet.

5 Things You May Not Know About the Magic of Olive Oil

By Edita Kaye

On January 5, 2018

In Fruit, Fun food projects, Veggies

Olive oil is the closest thing we have to a magic elixir in the modern era. Edita Kaye swears by olive oil, from its health benefits to its delectable taste. Click through the listicle below to learn all about the green gold!

Five things you may not know about the magic of olive oil from Edita Kaye