Hello foodie Lions π¦! Happy Wednesday. Welcome to today's show. π₯π²π«
This is the #threadcast for Day 127 of the #foodtalk on Leo 30/10/2024 for 29/10/2024. It's time for some meal inspirations and food conversation. Don't forget to use #foodtalk in your comments.
Discussion
- Be part of the Food Talk Show On Leo. Here is Day 126 that leads you to the previous threadcasts.
- Do you eat potatoes?
- Brilliant baked potato recipes to raise your comfort food game.π
- Share your food experiences.
- Share other food-related content and ask questions about food.
More about food with tips and tricks will be dropped in the threadcast. Upvote the comments you find interesting & connect with others. Let's have fun. #foodie
Do you eat potatoes? How do you love to have them? #foodtalk #potato
Yes, I eat potatoes. My favorite way to have them is roasted with herbs. Of course that picture of baked portatoes loaded with toppings lookes great too.
Barley: Ancient grain with science-backed benefits for a healthy pregnancy
Barley is a grain that has been a key part of the human diet since ancient civilizations. It has been cherished for thousands of years not just because it is a hearty staple food, but because it is packed with nutrients that could benefit mothers-to-be.
Barley is loaded with important nutrients like:
#food #health #grain #barley
Antioxidants: These compounds help fight inflammation and protect cells from damage, which is important for overall health, especially during pregnancy.
Fiber: Barley is one of the richest sources of dietary fiber and contains a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which plays a significant role in maintaining heart health and controlling blood sugar levels.
Vitamins and minerals: Barley contains nearly all the B vitamins (important for energy), iron (crucial for carrying oxygen in the blood), magnesium (needed for muscle and nerve function) and selenium (an antioxidant that protects cells from damage).
Protein: While barley is not as protein-rich as beans or lentils, it does contain a decent amount β making it a good source of plant-based protein.
How barley helps pregnant women
Today, researchers are discovering more about how this humble grain can support the health of pregnant women. From aiding digestion to helping control blood sugar levels, barley is stepping into the spotlight as a nourishing, natural option for moms and their babies.
Promotes health digestion
Uncomfortable bloating and constipation can accompany your pregnancy journey and this is where barley's nutrient fiber β beta-glucan β comes into play.
Pregnancy hormones like progesterone slow down digestion and as the baby grows, there's added pressure on the intestines. This often leads to constipation, which is not only uncomfortable but can also cause other issues like hemorrhoids.
Barley's high fiber content helps keep things moving smoothly through the digestive system. Soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance in the intestines β making stools easier to pass. Incorporating barley into a pregnant woman's diet could significantly relieve constipation β keeping the gut healthy and reducing discomfort.
Balances blood sugar levels
Pregnancy can bring about sudden shifts in the way your body processes sugar β leading to a condition called "gestational diabetes." This condition happens when the body struggles to produce enough insulin β causing blood sugar levels to rise. High blood sugar during pregnancy can lead to complications, including high birth weight for the baby, which can make delivery more challenging.
The beta-glucan fiber found in barley is especially helpful for managing blood sugar. It slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing spikes and keeping levels stable. Studies have shown that barley eaten regularly can improve insulin sensitivity, which means the body can process sugar more efficiently.
Barley also provides a steady supply of energy, helping pregnant women avoid that post-meal slump. With its natural ability to keep blood sugar in check, barley could be a quiet hero for expectant mothers.
Article
my sister is pregnant, I'll be recommending this for her and see how it goes
Baking ingredient found to help reduce bad cholesterol
A recent investigation by researchers at Arizona State University has uncovered a potential new approach to managing high cholesterol. According to a recent study, a specific blend of corn flour might offer significant benefits for those with elevated levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol.
#baking #food #cholesterol #health
Study overview
Published in The Journal of Nutrition, the study examined the impact of various corn flour types on both cardiovascular health and gut microbiota in 36 adults aged between 18 and 70 years old who had high LDL levels.
Participant criteria
The study excluded individuals with significant food allergies, recent antibiotic treatments, recent weight changes, restrictive diets, specific medical conditions or supplement use. Additionally, individuals with certain medical histories, pregnant or breastfeeding women, those on cholesterol medications and those involved in high-intensity exercises were not included.
Methodology
Study participants first completed an online questionnaire to determine eligibility. Those who qualified underwent further screening, including a 12-hour fasting blood test to check their cholesterol levels. Eligible participants then completed health and diet surveys, provided informed consent and submitted stool samples for analysis of their gut microbiome.
Participants consumed muffins and pita bread made from three different types of corn flour β whole-grain cornmeal, refined cornmeal and a unique blend of refined cornmeal with corn bran β for four weeks each, with breaks in between.
Researchers monitored compliance and gastrointestinal symptoms weekly, defining compliance as consuming over 80 percent of the provided foods. Dietary intake was tracked using three-day food diaries and the nutritional data was analyzed with specialized software.
Blood tests were performed before and after each four-week phase to measure changes in key markers, such as LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides. Stool samples were also analyzed to assess changes in gut microbiota composition and function.
Findings
Of the three corn flour types tested, only the refined corn meal blend with added corn bran led to a notable reduction in LDL cholesterol, averaging five percent, with some participants experiencing decreases of up to 13 percent.
This blend also slightly lowered total cholesterol. The other two corn flour varieties did not show significant effects on cholesterol levels, although whole-grain cornmeal was associated with a minor increase in beneficial gut bacteria.
Article
Food for the brain: Boost your cognitive function and memory with almonds
Recent research has found fascinating effects of almonds on the brain, particularly in how they might support memory and learning. Almond consumption has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and increase antioxidants in the brain.
Almonds are a rich source of several key nutrients that are essential for optimal brain health:
#food #almonds #brain #health
Vitamin E
Almonds are packed with essential nutrients, particularly vitamin E. Just 28 grams of almonds, or about 43 nuts, can provide around 50 percent of your daily vitamin E requirement. This vitamin has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, particularly in slowing down the progression of mild cognitive impairment to dementia, in a 2021 study published in Healthcare.
Research indicates that vitamin E may help protect brain health by improving neurotransmission and reducing neurotoxicity. Various studies have shown that higher levels of vitamin E are linked to better cognitive performance, especially in older adults and those with conditions, like Alzheimer's disease.
Healthy fats
The monounsaturated fats found in almonds are essential for maintaining healthy cell membranes, including those in the brain. These fats support overall brain function and can help improve cognitive performance. Specifically, almonds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining the structure and functions of brain cells.
According to a study published in Cureus, omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in promoting cognition, preserving neurons and protecting against neurodegeneration. These beneficial effects are achieved through two mechanisms: enhancing membrane fluidity and boosting neurotransmitter release.
Flavonoids
A study conducted by researchers at the University of California Los Angeles found that consuming almonds regularly improved memory and cognitive function in participants, especially in tasks that require logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
One of the reasons behind this cognitive boost is the presence of flavonoids in almonds, which are known for their antioxidant properties. These natural compounds reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which are known to contribute to cognitive decline β promoting better blood flow.
Almonds are rich in dietary flavonoids, which offer several neuroprotective benefits. A study published in Genes & Nutrition highlights that these flavonoids can protect neurons from damage caused by neurotoxins and reduce neuroinflammation. Furthermore, they may enhance cognitive function, learning and memory.
Magnesium
Almonds are a good source of magnesium, which plays a vital role in brain health, primarily due to its involvement in energy production. Without enough magnesium, energy production in brain cells can be impaired β affecting cognitive function.
Additionally, magnesium regulates neurotransmitters, like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate, as well as calcium levels in brain cells, which supports learning, memory and neuron activity. Research also suggests that higher brain magnesium levels enhance neurogenesis (the creation of new brain cells) β boosting cognitive adaptability and flexibility.
Almonds: The perfect snack
Raw almonds are generally more nutrient-dense than roasted almonds as the roasting process can reduce some of their vitamins and healthy fats. Unsalted almonds are a better choice for overall health since added salt can contribute to high blood pressure.
Mamra Badam almonds, grown in Afghanistan and Iran, stand out for their unique curved shape and superior nutritional profile. Unlike mass-produced California almonds, Mamra almonds are considered to be nutritionally richer β offering higher levels of healthy fats, including omega-3s. Their premium quality and limited production make them one of the most expensive almonds on the market.
Almonds are the perfect snack no matter the time of day or situation. Whether you're adding them to your oatmeal for extra flavor, snacking during your morning commute, or swapping out chips for a healthier crunch at lunch β almonds fit right in.
Keep a jar at your desk to curb mid-morning cravings, toss them on your salad for a nutty boost, or rely on them for that afternoon energy slump. On the go? Carry almonds in your purse or car for a convenient, satisfying snack. Even late at night, almonds can satisfy cravings without the guilt. Whatever the moment, almonds have you covered.
Dennyβs is shutting down 150 stores to boost cash flow amid declining sales
Twenty-four-hour diner and breakfast restaurant Denny's recently announced the closure of 150 branches out of its 1,700 locations worldwide β 50 store closures by the end of this year and the remaining 100 locations will be shut in 2025.
According to a Securities and Exchange filing from the chain on Tuesday, Oct. 22, the company aims to strengthen its cash flow as the chain will try to reach a goal of growing annual unit volume sales to $2.2 million.
#food #restuarant #dennys #closings
"We believe this is absolutely the right thing to do to make our system stronger," Denny's CEO Kelli Valade said.
The more than a hundred branches that will be shut make for roughly 10 percent of Denny's stores. It has not yet been announced which locations will close down but Valade said that it is the "underperforming" restaurants that would stop operations. Among the restaurants closing are older locations that are too old to remodel or are based in unprofitable locations, said its Executive Vice President and Chief Global Development Officer Stephen Dunn.
"Some of these restaurants can be very old. So, when you think of a 70-year-old plus brand, you have a lot of restaurants that have been out there for a very long time," he told investors at the meeting.
Meanwhile, Denny's reported its fifth straight quarter of declines in sales at locations that were open for at least a year. Since the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the restaurant has not returned to its usual around-the-clock hours in around a quarter of its locations. Because of this, the chain has now officially slashed its hours. This came after Dunn said it "didn't make sense" especially since foot traffic and changing consumer behaviors continue to show as effects from the pandemic.
Article
30 Brilliant Baked Potato Recipes To Raise Your Comfort Food Game.
Hero ingredient
Comfort food doesn't get much better than a baked potato. Simple, straightforward and versatile, there are endless ways to enjoy them beyond topping them with baked beans and cheese. They're an excellent vehicle for leftovers too, so brilliant if you're trying to cut down on food waste and save money in the process. From healthy to indulgent, you're sure to find a new combination here.
Get more brilliant baked potato recipes in the comments. π
#foodtalk #bakedpotato #potatoes #comfortfood
30 Brilliant Baked Potato Recipes To Raise Your Comfort Food Game. π Begin here.
The classic jacket
What we all love in a baked potato is the crisp skin and the soft, fluffy center. Pierce the skin all over with a fork, rub with oil and sea salt, then bake in a hot oven for around 1 to 1.5 hours. You can speed up the process by microwaving them on high to begin with (3 average potatoes for 8 minutes), then put them in the oven for 45 minutes to crisp up.
#foodtalk #bakedpotato #potatoes #comfortfood
30 Brilliant Baked Potato Recipes To Raise Your Comfort Food Game. π Begin here.
Loaded potato skins
Bake some potatoes, allow to cool, then cut them into segments. Remove the flesh, leaving some as a base, and top with a veggie bean chili and grated cheese. Grill until the cheese has melted and the skins are crisp. Top with sour cream and chopped chives for a moreish dish which can either serve as a starter or a snack.
#foodtalk #bakedpotato #potatoes #comfortfood #loadedpotatoes
30 Brilliant Baked Potato Recipes To Raise Your Comfort Food Game. π Begin here.
Moroccan sweet potatoes
These baked sweet potatoes are topped with spiced lentils, infused with ginger, garlic, cumin and harissa β a fiery North African paste. To save time, use a can of lentils, which you just need to drain and rinse. They are served with a lemon tahini dressing. It's a great vegan main course choice.
#foodtalk #bakedpotato #potatoes #comfortfood #sweetpotatoes
30 Brilliant Baked Potato Recipes To Raise Your Comfort Food Game. π Begin here.
Ground lamb with grilled manchego cheese
This spicy lamb ragΓΉ is used in the recipe as a topping for baked eggplants, but it would be great on halved baked potatoes, too. With a hint of chili and Spanish smoked paprika, the melted cheese makes the dish warm and comforting. The recipe uses manchego, but a strong Cheddar would be fine.
#foodtalk #bakedpotato #potatoes #comfortfood #manchego
You know how I feel when I eat frog legs ππΉπΉπΉ..
Hello @rollando.silva, how do you feel when eating what you like?
I feel alive ππ
#freecompliments
How lively? π€π€
101% lively ππ
#freecompliments
thats more than healthy to hear.. lol
Normally
Abnormal Normal ππππ
https://inleo.io/threads/view/calebmarvel01/re-leothreads-cy36kdpe?referral=calebmarvel01
No, this is not a balanced diet but a boring eating method. Lol. The consumer will need a lot of veggies and water for quick digestion.
But I understand, it could be that, that was what was found in the pantry.
Hahaha π€£π€£π€£, I just wanted to get you into some conversation ππ. Lol
But that was what we eating in most time while growing up in the village...
!DOOK
Welcome friends to the #foodtalk show on Leo, it's another episode, Day 127, let's have some #food conversations and talk more about potatoes and various recipes to create from this amazing one food.
