• food

    FoodTrients Shares the Secrets to Longevity with a Diet from Okinawa

    October 3, 2024 /
    Okinawa is in the southern-most prefecture of Japan, straddling the East China and the Philippine seas. Besides being known as the location of a U.S. Army base, Okinawa is one of the five ‘Blue Zones’ described by journalist, author, and National Geographic fellow, Dan Buettner. These are five populations throughout the world with unusually high numbers of individuals who live happier, healthier lives, often to one hundred and beyond.
    Grace O, the visionary behind FoodTrients, derives her philosophy of graceful, healthy aging from the dietary practices observed in the vibrant Blue Zone regions.
    In a nutshell, what these societies have in common is they:
    1. Exercise naturally in their everyday activities, walking, gardening, building, etc.
    2. Maintain purpose throughout their lives.
    3. Take time each day to de-stress.
    4. Belong to a society or faith-based organization.
    5. Put families and friends first.
    6. Choose or were born into societies with healthy behaviors.
    And when it comes to eating, residents of ‘Blue Zones’:
    – Drink alcohol moderately, regularly, or not at all.
    – Eat until they are just 80% full.
    – Consume a mostly plant-based diet.
    The cuisine of Okinawa is even more vegetable-centric than the typical Japanese diet. Okinawans dine on a menu that is heavy in whole grains, soy products, and vegetables, both from land and sea. As a result, they enjoy a level of heart disease that is one-fifth that of Americans, as well as lower rates of cancer.
     
    One of the mainstays of the Okinawan diet is a purple sweet potato called, beni imo. Like other highly colored fruits and vegetables, including cherries, blueberries, raspberries, and red cabbage, these sweet potatoes are high in flavonoids, which are antioxidant compounds. They also contain large amounts of cell-repairing vitamin E and lycopene. There is also a domestic sweet potato with purple skin and flesh, called the Stokes Purple® that is available late August through winter. Okinawa purple sweet potatoes have buff-colored skins and purple flesh and are available fall through winter. For optimal sweetness and fluffiness, both should be baked lower and longer than other potatoes—about 90-120 minutes at 350 degrees (though you may have to experiment). These potatoes are delicious baked, slit open, sprinkled with salt and pepper with a squeeze of lime juice. You can also top them with a little sour cream or plain Greek yogurt and sprinkle with chives.
    Try this delicious fall recipe featuring purple potatoes.
    Tropical Purple Potato Soup
    Serves six
    Here’s a tropical-style soup featuring purple potatoes that will dazzle your friends. It contains a healthy dose of herbs and spices that help regulate blood sugar and blood pressure.
    Image
    Ingredients:
    2 medium sweet onions, sliced then chopped into ¼” pieces
    1 ½ Tbs. vegetable oil such as avocado oil
    2 medium purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¾” cubes
    1 serrano chili, seeded and minced
    3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
    ½” slice fresh ginger, peeled and minced
    1-14 oz. can coconut milk (or 1 ½ cup macadamia milk)
    2 ½ cups water
    ¼ tsp. ground turmeric
    ½ tsp. ground coriander
    Sea salt to taste
    3 cups cooked rice
    Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
    Instructions:
    1. Sautee the onions in the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat until softened, about 4 minutes.
    2. Add the sweet potatoes, the serrano chili, garlic, and ginger; cook 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
    3. Add the coconut (or macadamia) milk, water, turmeric, coriander, and pinch of salt; bring to a boil.
    4. Reduce heat and simmer 20-25 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
    5. Place a scoop (1/2 cup) of rice in a shallow bowl and ladle the soup over; top with chopped cilantro and a wedge of lime.
     
    About FoodTrients
    FoodTrients® is a philosophy and a resource dedicated to the foods and rejuvenating nutrients that help us fight the diseases of aging and promote longevity. All of the recipes combine modern scientific research and medicinal herbs and ingredients from cultures around the world. They’re loaded with flavor and superfoods, which promote wellness, increase energy and vitality, improve skin, and help people look and feel younger.
    Image
    About Grace O
    Over a span of 30 years, Grace O has built an impressive record of business achievement, community building, philanthropy, and community service in California. Guided by her spirit of entrepreneurship and building on a model of generosity learned from her family, Grace has spent a lifetime helping people heal through food and medicine. Grace launched FoodTrients.com in 2010 where she shares age-defying superfoods from around the world and creates delicious recipes with them. Grace is the author of three award-winning cookbooks—The Age GRACEfully Cookbook: The Power of FOODTRIENTS to Promote Health and Well-being for a Joyful and Sustainable Life; The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World, and the multi-award-winning Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World.
    For more information and recipes visit www.FoodTrients.com.
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  • food

    FoodTrients Says Discover the Key to Building a Strong Body with the Right Foods

    August 13, 2024 /
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    Discover the Key to Building a Strong Body with the Right Foods
    In a groundbreaking revelation, renowned nutrition expert and founder of FoodTrients, Grace O shares the ultimate guide to achieving a strong and healthy body through the power of nutrition. Whether you are young or old, male or female, the secret to maintaining robust bones and muscles lies in the foods you eat. Grace O’s latest insights offer a delicious and versatile approach to nutrition that caters to omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike.
    The Foundation of Strength: Protein-Rich Foods
    To maintain and build muscle, the average person should consume 46-56 grams of protein daily. Grace O emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of protein sources into your diet:
    • Image
      Meat, Poultry, and Seafood: Lean beef, pork, chicken, turkey, salmon, tuna, and shellfish provide essential nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, zinc, and iron.
    • Eggs and Dairy: Eggs, rich in leucine and B vitamins, and dairy products like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese are excellent for muscle synthesis and energy production.
    • Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, and buckwheat are high-protein grains that offer a balanced amino acid profile, vital vitamins, and minerals.
    • Beans and Legumes: Peanuts, lentils, kidney beans, black beans, navy beans, and chickpeas are powerhouse sources of protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
    • Nuts: Almonds and walnuts provide protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential nutrients for heart health and muscle building.
    • Tofu: A versatile option for vegans and vegetarians, tofu is rich in protein and calcium, promoting healthy bones and muscle recovery.
    Foods for Keeping Joints in Shape
    In addition to protein-rich foods, Grace O highlights several foods that support joint health through their anti-inflammatory properties and high calcium content:
    • Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamin C, bell peppers stimulate collagen production and reduce inflammation.
    • Blueberries: This superfood is loaded with polyphenols and vitamin C, which help reduce joint pain and boost immunity.
    • Image
      Bok Choy: Along with other leafy greens like spinach and kale, bok choy is a great source of calcium and vitamin K.
    • Bone Broth: Rich in protein and collagen, bone broth supports skin, bones, tendons, and connective tissue.
    • Fortified Milk: Vitamin D-fortified milk enhances calcium absorption for strong bones.
    • Mushrooms: A rare natural source of vitamin D, mushrooms also provide a satisfying meat alternative.
    • Prunes: Containing potassium, magnesium, and vitamin K, prunes are a tasty snack that promotes bone and joint health.
    • Sardines: Loaded with omega-3s, calcium, and vitamin D, sardines are excellent for reducing inflammation and strengthening bones.
    • Sweet Potatoes: Full of magnesium and potassium, sweet potatoes support bone health by activating vitamin D and neutralizing acid-induced calcium loss.
    • Tofu: Once again, tofu proves to be a nutritional powerhouse, offering ample calcium and reducing joint pain.
    • Turmeric: This golden spice, related to ginger, can be added to various dishes to reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
    Grace O’s comprehensive guide to building a strong body with the right foods is not just for athletes or bodybuilders; it is for anyone who wants to age well and maintain their strength and vitality. By incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into your diet, you can enjoy a healthier, stronger body at any age. To view the entire article and recipes, click here.
    Following is a recipe from Grace’s latest cookbook, Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World. It takes nutritional superstar tofu out of Asia for a change and spices it up Italian-style.  Perfect for a light, healthy summer meal.
    Roman Tofu Salad
    Serves 4
    Bored with regular green salads? Spice things up with this tofu salad that can also be a main course. The tofu is marinated in Italian spices and paired with Mediterranean veggies. A light lemon-herb dressing perfectly suits the combination. To reduce the time for marinating, cooking, and cooling, consider preparing the tofu ahead of time and simply adding it to the veggies when you’re ready to serve.
     
    Benefits
    Tofu provides protein for building and repairing muscles, bones, cartilage, skin, hair, and nails.
     
    Ingredients
    Image
    1 block (14 oz.) firm tofu, pressed and cubed (about ½-inch in size)
    1 cup (1 pint container) halved cherry tomatoes
    1 medium cucumber, peeled and cubed
    ½ cup chopped red onion
    1 can (4 oz.) whole or sliced black olives, drained
     
    Dressing
    ¼ cup olive oil, plus 2 tsp.
    2 Tbs. freshly squeezed lemon juice
    ½ tsp. dried oregano
    ¼ tsp. dried basil
    ¼ tsp. garlic salt
    ¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
     
    Procedure
    1. Place the tofu cubes in a medium mixing bowl.
    2. Make the dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup oil, lemon juice, oregano, basil, garlic salt, and pepper.
    3. Set 2 Tbs. of the dressing aside. Pour the rest over the tofu and marinate for 1 hour in the refrigerator.
    4. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
    5. Pour 2 tsp. oil in the bottom of a glass baking pan, add the tofu and any additional marinade, and bake for 30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through baking time. Remove from the oven and cool completely, about 15 minutes.
    6. In a large serving bowl, combine the tofu, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and olives.
    7. Pour the reserved dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve cold.
    Gluten-Free
    Vegan
    Vegetarian
     
    FoodTrients® is a philosophy and a resource dedicated to the foods and rejuvenating nutrients that help us fight the diseases of aging and promote longevity. Grace’s healthy living program is built around nine age-defying “FoodTrients,” which she incorporates into her recipes and articles.  They are: Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, Beauty, Detox, Disease Prevention, Gut Health, Immune Boosters, Mind, and Strength. All recipes on the website combine modern scientific research and medicinal herbs and ingredients from cultures around the world. They’re loaded with flavor and superfoods, which promote wellness, increase energy and vitality, improve skin, and help people look and feel younger.  For more information and recipes visit www.FoodTrients.com.
    Image
    About Grace O
    Over a span of 30 years, Grace O has built an impressive record of business achievement, community building, philanthropy, and community service in California. Guided by her spirit of entrepreneurship and building on a model of generosity learned from her family, Grace has spent a lifetime helping people heal through food and medicine. Grace launched FoodTrients.com in 2010 where she shares age-defying superfoods from around the world and creates delicious recipes with them. Grace is the author of three award-winning cookbooks—The Age GRACEfully Cookbook: The Power of FOODTRIENTS to Promote Health and Well-being for a Joyful and Sustainable Life; The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World, and the multi-award-winning Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World.
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    FoodTrients Showcases Antioxidant Foods That Fight Aging at a Cellular Level

    July 14, 2024 /
    Antioxidants have multiple roles in the body and one of the most studied is the ability to reduce oxidative stress. Antioxidants are one of our body’s best weapons when it comes to aging, because they fight aging at a cellular level and help keep cells from “rusting.”
    Research has demonstrated that antioxidants can slow down aging by reducing oxidative stress, a natural byproduct of essential cellular activities such as energy production, detoxification, digestion, respiration, cognition, and exercise. These processes generate free radicals, unstable molecules that initiate oxidation. The insights from this research form the foundation of Grace O’s FoodTrients philosophy, which promotes the concept of food as medicine to promote healthy aging.
    Free radicals play a vital role in stimulating important physiological processes, including immune system function and cellular signaling pathways. However, an excess of free radicals leads to an imbalance that triggers a chain reaction of electron theft, resulting in tissue damage. Antioxidants help mitigate this damage by neutralizing free radicals, thereby maintaining cellular health and slowing the aging process.
    Grace says that if the balance of oxidative stress gets too high, it can cause damage and “aging” to cells. This is where antioxidants come in; they protect your cells, preventing and repairing damage caused by oxidative stress. This balance is what keeps cells healthy and prevents damage that comes along naturally with living and aging.
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    Luckily for us, there are many delicious foods that are natural antioxidants that we can incorporate into our diet, which will counter the stress our cells encounter. You probably already know that deeply colored fruits and vegetables like berries and red cabbage contain generous amounts of antioxidants.
    Here are some antioxidant super foods Grace recommends we should focus on:
    • Almonds: are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant which helps protect both brain and skin health.
    • Beans: are rich in polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants. Look for colored beans including black, pinto, and kidney, for even more antioxidant compounds. Beans are also high in fiber which can help improve digestion and support detoxification.
    • Berries: blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are rich in flavonoids and antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C. Many experts recommend including berries in the diet daily.
    • Dark Chocolate: varieties over 70% cocoa are rich in flavonoids which are a potent antioxidant found in cocoa. That’s right: chocolate is part of a healthy diet because it’s so right in antioxidants!
    • Sweet Potatoes: these orange vegetables are rich in beta-carotene, which helps protect vision and skin from early aging and cellular damage. Orange and red foods should be a regular part of your diet because of their antioxidant compounds.
    What drives Grace’s program of healthy aging are nine elements she calls FoodTrients®: Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, Beauty, Detox, Disease Prevention, Gut Health, Immune Boosters, Mind, and Strength.  “The inspiration for me starting my FoodTrients program—the website and my cookbooks—really came from my father.  He was a physician, and he had a way of looking at food as though it could heal us,” Grace explains.  “He understood the value of the vitamins and minerals found in fresh foods and how those elements could influence our health.  Foods like organic fruits and vegetables, wild fish, and humanely raised animals have so many good things in it: antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, anti-inflammatory agents, fiber, and anti-bacterial compounds.”
    To read the entire article and see more recipes click here.
    Aztec Berry Salad with Lemon Chia Dressing
    SERVES 4 
    Gluten-Free; Vegan if using maple syrup
    Vegetarian
    The Aztecs recorded using chia seeds as far back as 1540. This colorful and refreshing salad is perfect for summer afternoons and evenings. Serve this salad as a starter, side dish, or light summer meal.
    Benefits: Chia seeds provide energy in the form of healthy fats (including anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids) and plant-based protein. Fresh, seasonal berries provide a concentrated source of beneficial antioxidants such as vitamin C and anthocyanins, which improve capillary function in the brain, eyes, and skin.
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    Ingredients
    For the salad
    2 cups (packed) roughly chopped baby spinach
    1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
    1 cup fresh blueberries
    1 cucumber, diced
    ½ cup sunflower kernels
    ¼ cup (loosely packed) chopped fresh basil leaves
    For the dressing
    2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
    Juice and zest of 1 lemon
    1 tsp. minced garlic
    1 Tbs. chia seeds
    1 tsp. honey or maple syrup
    1 Tbs. water
    Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
    Procedure
    1. Combine salad ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
    2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
    3. Toss the salad with the dressing immediately before serving.
    FoodTrients
    Anthocyanins
    Fiber
    Flavonols
    Manganese
    Omega-3 fatty acids
    Vitamin C
    Vitamin E
    Vitamin K
    About FoodTrients
    FoodTrients® is a philosophy and a resource dedicated to the foods and rejuvenating nutrients that help us fight the diseases of aging and promote longevity. All of the recipes combine modern scientific research and medicinal herbs and ingredients from cultures around the world. They’re loaded with flavor and superfoods, which promote wellness, increase energy and vitality, improve skin, and help people look and feel younger.
    About Grace O
    Image
    Over a span of 30 years, Grace O has built an impressive record of business achievement, community building, philanthropy, and community service in California. Guided by her spirit of entrepreneurship and building on a model of generosity learned from her family, Grace has spent a lifetime helping people heal through food and medicine. Grace launched FoodTrients.com in 2010 where she shares age-defying superfoods from around the world and creates delicious recipes with them. Grace is the author of three award-winning cookbooks—The Age GRACEfully Cookbook: The Power of FOODTRIENTS to Promote Health and Well-being for a Joyful and Sustainable Life; The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World, and the multi-award-winning Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World.
    For more information and recipes visit www.FoodTrients.com.
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  • food

    Nourishing Your Heart: FoodTrients Outlines Top 5 Foods for Effective Blood Pressure Management

    May 29, 2024 /
    Hypertension, a common cardiovascular concern affecting 1.3 billion people worldwide, is also called high blood pressure. It’s a condition that requires a multifaceted approach to management with a focus on preventive care. While medication plays a crucial role, dietary choices can significantly impact your blood pressure levels and should be a first line treatment.
    Grace O is the founder of FoodTrients, a non-profit organization dedicated to research and information on food as medicine that can help everyone age better.  What drives Grace’s program of healthy aging are nine elements she calls FoodTrients®: Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, Beauty, Detox, Disease Prevention, Gut Health, Immune Boosters, Mind, and Strength.
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    To manage healthy blood pressure, FoodTrients nutrition expert Ginger Hultin, MS RDN CSO, outlines five essential FoodTrients® foods that provide benefits that you can start incorporating today.

    Berries pack a potent punch of antioxidants known as flavonoids. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to blood vessel dilation (expansion), positively influencing blood pressure and possibly helping reduce it.

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    Fatty Fish – The type of fish richest in anti-inflammatory, heart healthy fats include those from cold waters like salmon. Omega-3 fats found in these species of fish help manage blood pressure, reduce inflammation in the body, and improve overall heart health long-term.
    Leafy Greens are powerful nutrient-dense options that help fight hypertension. Packed with potassium, greens help the body balance sodium levels, a key factor in blood pressure regulation. They also contain high levels of natural nitrates, which convert into nitric oxide — a ‘vasodilator’ that relaxes blood vessels and promotes easier blood flow.
    Oats can contribute to blood pressure management. Oats contain beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber that has been linked to lower blood pressure levels. Fiber helps reduce cholesterol absorption, promoting heart health and artery health.
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    Watermelon contains citrulline, a compound that can be converted into arginine, promoting the production of nitric oxide. All melons are rich in potassium so including a variety of melons in your diet adds a delicious element to your blood pressure management plan.
    Making mindful choices in the kitchen can have a profound impact on blood pressure management. Incorporating fiber-rich, anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, oats, fatty fish, and melon into your diet not only enhances the flavors of your meals but also supports heart health and blood pressure management. As always, consult with healthcare professionals like your doctor and registered dietitian for personalized advice on managing blood pressure through dietary changes, ensuring a holistic approach to cardiovascular health.
    To read the complete article click here.
    Try Grace O’s delicious spring salad from her latest cookbook, Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World, that contains the FoodTrients for healthy blood pressure.
    Recipe and photo may be reprinted with the following credit:
    Recipe and photo from Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World by Grace O
    Roasted Veggies and Greens Salad
    Serves 5
    Roasted veggies aren’t just for fall anymore! They can fit into the diet year-round when mixed with other fresh, seasonal choices. Root vegetables such as beets and carrots can be combined with a variety of greens and a light, lemony vinaigrette to make the perfect warm-weather salad. Quick and easy to make, try this roasted vegetable salad with summer greens this week. The veggies and greens are full of detoxifying fiber and chlorophyll.
    Image
    Ingredients
    4 large carrots, peeled and diced
    1 medium yellow onion, diced
    3 medium purple beets, peeled and diced
    ¼ cup plus 2 Tbs. olive oil (divided)
    2 Tbs. honey
    Zest and juice of 1 small lemon
    1 tsp. Dijon mustard
    1/8 tsp. sea salt
    ¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper
    5 cups arugula
     
    Instructions
    1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
    2. Roast carrots, onion, and beets tossed in 2 Tbs. of olive oil for 40 minutes, covered with foil for the first 20 minutes.
    3. While vegetables are roasting, whisk ¼ cup olive oil, the honey, lemon zest and juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
    4. Once vegetables have cooled slightly, coat in dressing and serve on top of 5 divided plates of fresh arugula.
     
    FoodTrients Elements:
    Anthocyanindins         Betalain (antioxidants in beets)         Biotin
    B-Vitamins                Copper                                            Fiber
    Iron                          Potassium                                        Vitamin A
    Vitamin C                  Vitamin K
    About FoodTrients
    FoodTrients® is a philosophy and a resource dedicated to the foods and rejuvenating nutrients that help us fight the diseases of aging and promote longevity. All of the recipes combine modern scientific research and medicinal herbs and ingredients from cultures around the world. They’re loaded with flavor and superfoods, which promote wellness, increase energy and vitality, improve skin, and help people look and feel younger.
     
    About Grace O
    Image
    Over a span of 30 years, Grace O has built an impressive record of business achievement, community building, philanthropy, and community service in California. Guided by her spirit of entrepreneurship and building on a model of generosity learned from her family, Grace has spent a lifetime helping people heal through food and medicine. Grace launched FoodTrients.com in 2010 where she shares age-defying superfoods from around the world and creates delicious recipes with them. Grace is the author of three award-winning cookbooks—The Age GRACEfully Cookbook: The Power of FOODTRIENTS to Promote Health and Well-being for a Joyful and Sustainable Life; The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World, and the multi-award-winning Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World.
    For more information and recipes visit www.FoodTrients.com. 
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    FoodTrients Says Fall in Love with Fall Breads

    November 2, 2023 /
    Let’s be honest. Nobody really needs more bread recipes. We all struggle to cut down on carbs and empty calories. But what if we make breads with benefits by including the nutrients of FoodTrients? You can always add ingredients that bring nutritional value such as wheat germ, nuts, whole wheat flour, etc.
    Fall is a great season for healthy vegetables that can be used to create delicious breads.  Vegetables such as zucchini, butternut squash, honeynut squash, persimmons, and pumpkins are featured ingredients on our website this month.  These recipes really celebrate the season while providing more wholesome nutrition than those seductive breads with lots of sugar and saturated fat. They are forgiving, so you can customize them a bit.
    So let’s get baking!  To see the rest of  fall bread recipes, click here: We’re Falling for These Seasonal Breads – FoodTrients
    Try this healthy yet delicious fall bread recipe perfect for the holidays:
    Tipsy Persimmon Bread
    Makes two 9-inch x 5-inch loaves
     
    Persimmons are a stunning deep orange fruit available in the fall when your neighbor’s decorative tree explodes with the fruit. There are two types of persimmons: the Japanese Hachiya, which is large and round with an elongated tip. The Fuyu is smaller and can look like a tomato. The Hachiya is soft to the touch when ripe and the flesh is smooth and creamy with a tangy-sweet flavor. If not completely ripe, the flesh is very astringent and mouth puckering. The Fuyu, on the other hand, is firm even when ripe and the flesh is sweet and not at all astringent. Persimmons contain a good amount of Vitamins A and C. Pecans have a higher number of strong antioxidants, more fiber, and more monounsaturated fat versus polyunsaturated fat. They are also higher in vitamin E. On the other hand, walnuts are the best go-to nut for Omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and Vitamin B. Walnuts also have more protein and polyunsaturated fat.
     
    The addition of bourbon or Cognac contributes to the tipsy state of this bread.
    Ingredients

    3 ½ cups sifted white whole wheat flour
    1 ½ tsp. sea salt
    2 tsp. baking soda
    1 tsp. ground nutmeg
    1 tsp. ground cardamom
    2 to 2 ½ cups sugar
    1 cup (8 oz.) melted unsalted butter, cooled to room temperature
    4 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten
    ⅔ cup bourbon or Cognac
    2 cups persimmon puree (from about 4 squishy-soft Hachiya persimmons)
    2 cups walnuts or pecans, toasted and chopped
    2 cups raisins, or diced dried fruits (such as apricots, cranberries, or dates)
    Instructions
    1. Generously butter two 9-inch x 5-inch loaf pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper or dust with flour and tap out any excess.
    2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
    3. Sift the flour, sea salt, baking soda, nutmeg, cardamom, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
    4. Make a well in the center then stir in the butter, eggs, liquor, persimmon puree, then the nuts and raisins.
    5. Pour the batter into the baking pans.
    6. Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    RECIPE MAY BE REPRINTED WITH THE FOLLOWING CREDIT:
    Recipe reprinted with permission of FoodTrients.com.
    About FoodTrients
    FoodTrients® is a philosophy and a resource dedicated to the foods and rejuvenating nutrients that help us fight the diseases of aging and promote longevity. All of the recipes combine modern scientific research and medicinal herbs and ingredients from cultures around the world. They’re loaded with flavor and superfoods, which promote wellness, increase energy and vitality, improve skin, and help people look and feel younger. 
    About Grace O
    Over a span of 30 years, Grace O has built an impressive record of business achievement, community building, philanthropy, and community service in California. Guided by her spirit of entrepreneurship and building on a model of generosity learned from her family, Grace has spent a lifetime helping people heal through food and medicine. Grace launched FoodTrients.com in 2010 where she shares age-defying superfoods from around the world and creates delicious recipes with them. Grace is the author of three award-winning cookbooks—The Age GRACEfully Cookbook: The Power of FOODTRIENTS to Promote Health and Well-being for a Joyful and Sustainable Life, The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World, and the multi-award-winning Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World.
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    FoodTrients, the award-winning food website, lists the foods to eat for beautiful, healthy skin

    February 25, 2023 /
    FoodTrients, the award-winning food website, lists the foods to eat for beautiful, healthy skin.
    Many of us spend hundreds of dollars each year on skincare products.  Products that say they will make us look younger, provide hydration and elasticity to our skin.  But what if you could achieve that without spending so much money?
    The age-old adage that you are what you eat is true, especially for your skin. Foods that are good for your skin help to hydrate and guard from environmental damage. Beneficial foods contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to being hydrating and supporting wound healing.
    Grace O, cookbook author and founder of FoodTrients®, has compiled the ultimate list of foods that can enhance not only your health but also your skin with a holistic view of the many factors that support our largest organ.  Certain foods like melons, citrus, chile peppers, fish, and whole grains are full of “foodtrients” that promote beautiful skin, shiny hair, and strong nails.  Others include:
    Cabbage – All colors of cabbage contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Researchers have identified nearly 20 different antioxidant flavonoids and 15 different plant phenols in cabbage, all of which have demonstrated antioxidant activity that can support scavenging free radicals in the skin.
     
    Chia seeds – A plant-source of polyunsaturated fatty acids called omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds can support skin health. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the antioxidant defense system of the skin. Additionally, nuts and seeds including chia are rich sources of copper, another precursor to collagen production for skin health.
     
    Garlic – Part of the reason we see skin lose elasticity, resulting in sagging and wrinkles with ageing has to do with a process called glycation which is already well underway by early adulthood. High intake of sugar can speed this process while research has shown that certain herbs and spices including ginger and garlic can slow it.
     
    Spinach – Packed with antioxidant vitamins C and E as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, fresh spinach is a skin-supporting veggie. Another bonus, it is a good source of zinc so it really contains many of the most critical nutrients known to protect your skin.
     
     Green Tea – Packed full of antioxidants, namely epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCg) a potent polyphenol, green tea is a friend to healthy aging. Studies indicate potential skin protective effects of consuming green tea, particularly in conjunction with protection against UV damage from the sun and for reducing inflammation.
     
     Oats – Another rich form of beta-glucans, oats are an important part of the diet for your skin. Studies have shown that beta-glucans support the skin in many ways including the reduction of wrinkles, wound healing, antioxidant activity, anti-UV and moisturizing effects.
    To view the complete list of FoodTrients® list of the top 50 foods go to: https://www.foodtrients.com/beauty/top-50-foods-beautiful-skin/.  Watch this video to learn more, and read about the compounds that promote beauty in this story: Beauty Foods Help You Look Younger.
    As we head into spring, try this light and easy salad from Grace’s current cookbook Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World, that is not only healthy and delicious but contains many of the foods on our list that contribute to beautiful skin.
    Aztec Berry Salad with Chia Dressing
    SERVES 4
     
    The Aztecs recorded using chia seeds as far back as 1540. This colorful and refreshing salad is perfect for summer afternoons and evenings. Serve this salad as a starter, side dish, or light summer meal.
    Benefits
    Chia seeds provide energy in the form of healthy fats (including anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids) and plant-based protein. Fresh, seasonal berries provide a concentrated source of beneficial antioxidants such as vitamin C and anthocyanins, which improve capillary function in the brain, eyes, and skin.
    Gluten-Free
    Vegan if using maple syrup
    Vegetarian
    Ingredients
    For the salad
    2 cups (packed) roughly chopped baby spinach
    1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
    1 cup fresh blueberries
    1 cucumber, diced
    ½ cup sunflower kernels
    ¼ cup (loosely packed) chopped fresh basil leaves
    For the dressing
    2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
    Juice and zest of 1 lemon
    1 tsp. minced garlic
    1 Tbs. chia seeds
    1 tsp. honey or maple syrup
    1 Tbs. water
    Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
    Procedure
    1. Combine salad ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
    2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
    3. Toss the salad with the dressing immediately before serving.
    Recipe and Photo may be reprinted with the following credit:
    ANTI-AGING DISHES FROM AROUND THE WORLD
    By Grace O
    Skyhorse/August 2022
    Over a span of 30 years, Grace O has built an impressive record of business achievement, community building, philanthropy, and community service in California. Guided by her spirit of entrepreneurship and building on a model of generosity learned from her family, Grace has spent a lifetime helping people heal through food and medicine. In 2011, Grace combined her entrepreneurial skills, her passion for the culinary arts, and her commitment to health by launching a new culinary brand, FoodTrients®, a non-profit website and cookbooks dedicated to the nutrients in foods that help prevent the diseases of aging. She is also the author of two award-winning cookbooks—The Age GRACEfully Cookbook: The Power of FOODTRIENTS to Promote Health and Well-being for a Joyful and Sustainable Life and The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World.  In 2022 she released her third cookbook, Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World.  For more information visit www.FoodTrients.com.
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