TATJANA SMOLIC

Specific substances from foods we eat appear very powerful in fighting the most dreading diseases like cancer. A question remains whether they are equally powerful when taken in mega doses as a single ingredient supplement. The quick answer is that we can't really tell.

It is very difficult to control day to day activities of people living independently. On our good days everything goes smoothly; we eat good diet, exercise and glide through our day with ease and with smiles on our face. On the other hand we sometimes experience dreadful days when everything turns to custard; absolutely nothing goes to plan and we even lose sleep over it. And of course there are days that are in between.

When considering our long term health prospects all things we do count; the foods we eat, beverages we drink, actions we take to de-stress and having good night sleeps to name a few. So each day we are exposed to various stresses and free radicals, which are very reactive chemicals. Environmental toxin...

1)  Pumpkins are now in season and their nutrient content is at its peak.

2)  They are excellent source of Beta carotene which is converted into vitamin A. And vitamin A is responsible for keeping our eyes sharp and gut lining healthy.

3)  Pumpkins provide a good source of potassium, a mineral that is usually outweighed by sodium used in many manufactured food products. So if you suffer from high blood pressure, then your doctor would surely advise you to cut down on sodium and add more potassium rich foods to your diet.

4)  Another good reason to love pumpkins is that they are low in energy and total carbohydrate content. This makes them a good choice for people with diabetes.

5)  Lastly and most importantly pumpkins taste delicious. And with this recipe your are not feeding only your body, but also your soul!

This recipe is a combo using the recipes of two friends but giving it our own stamp.

Here is how we make it:

Ingredients

1-2Tb olive oil

1.5kg pumpkin

1 brown onion finely chopped

3clove...

Get your slow cooker ready and try this nutrient packed immunity busting meal.

The meal provides plenty of Iron in a form that our body can absorb best.  Iron is an important nutrient for developing brain of the unborn baby and active toddlers.  It is also high in Zinc, an important trace mineral essential for growth, robust immune system and healthy appetite. This Moroccan delight is also dairy and gluten free and diabetes friendly.

Ingredients for

8 serves:

700g diced beef

2 cans (400g/can) diced tomatoes in tomato juice

1can (400g) chickpeas in brine, rinsed well

1 red capsicum,  diced

2 carrots, med size, peeled and sliced

1cup of sliced white button mushrooms

2tb olive oil

1 brown onion, finely diced

3-4 cloves of garlic, crashed

1/4 tsp chopped fresh chilli pepper

1tsp coriander, powder

1tsp cumin, powder

black pepper

2tsp Moroccan spice

10 basil leaves, fresh, finely chopped

1 tsp red paprika, powder

1tsp vegeta (or other stock powder)

6 bay leaves

1cup of water

Procedure:

Preheat oil in a fryin...