Three Tidbits

1. Green Tea can cut your flu risk by 50%-especially in children, due to its antiviral components that prevent flu infection.  No, I don't expect my 15-month-old son to sit down with me for tea time, but what a great additive to throw in his food for the healthful properties (decaf of course!!!), especially since we opted out of the flu vaccine this year.  I suggest steeping 1-3 bags 1-3x daily (or as you remember or make some for yourself), let cool, and store in fridge to add to any pureed food-especially smoothies!  The taste should be disguised and the antioxidants alone are enough reason to think about this-particularly during sick season.

2. Eggs and Milk are major stress reducers due to the protein and carbs in milk, and the choline in eggs.  Carbs are tricky because while they are known as serotonin boosters, too many can make you sluggish and crave more, which defeats the purpose (more on serotonin in future posts).  A glass of warm milk will relax you, and has a nice balance of protein to break down any carbs.  The calcium in milk helps convert tryptophan to serotonin as well!  Egg yolks contain choline, which is a B vitamin that promotes healthy brain cells.  A better functioning brain actually equals less stress.  I always advocate cage-free organic eggs as a staple in your diet for the protein and omega-3s, for both adults and children-now we have one more reason!

3. Olive Oil vs. Extra Virgin Olive Oil-Regular OO is better for high heat pan cooking, as it has a higher smoke point of 460 degrees (once an oil starts to smoke it releases dangerous carcinogens), however EVOO is better for low-heat cooking, baking, and dressings/marinades that require no heat due to it having a lower smoke point below 400 degrees.  More on safe cooking in future posts as well!  The good news is that both are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, and have many other extraordinary health benefits.  EVOO is more ideal due to it being less processed, and I always advocate organic oils to avoid the heavy pesticides contained in conventional oils.  Of course, this is a fat, albeit a healthy fat, but still best used in moderation.  I also sneak some healthy oils into my son's meals.

As always, thanks so much for reading-food for thought is always a good thing in my mind (no pun intended).  Don't worry, be healthy!  And of course, Stay Chic, Stay Healthy;)