Top 10 Worst Foods Not To Eat - Part [2/2]

6. Burial Grands

No one thinks of biscuits as health food. But each Pillsbury Grands! Southern Style frozen biscuit has 170 calories and 1½ grams of saturated fat, plus 3½ grams of trans fat (more than a day’s worth). Companies are dumping their partially hydrogenated oils left and right, yet Pillsbury still makes most of its rolls and biscuits with the stuff.

7. Triple Bypass

Can’t decide what to pick from a restaurant menu? No worries. Now you can order not just one entrée, but two … or three … all at once.Olive Garden’s Tour of Italy – Homemade Lasagna, Lightly Breaded Chicken Parmigiana, and Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo – comes with 1,450 calories, 33 grams of saturated fat, and 3,830 milligrams of sodium. Add a breadstick (150 calories and 400 mg of sodium) and a plate of Garden-Fresh Salad with dressing (290 calories and 1,530 mg of sodium) and you’ll consume almost 2,000 calories (an entire day’s worth) and 5,760 mg of sodium (4 days’ worth) in a single meal!

8. Starbucks on Steroids

The Starbucks Venti (20 oz) White Chocolate Mocha with 2% milk and whipped cream is more than a mere cup of coffee. It’s worse than a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese. Few people have room in their diets for the 580 calories, 14 grams of saturated fat, and 13 teaspoons of added sugar that this hefty beverage supplies. But you can lose 130 calories and more than half of the saturated fat if you order it with nonfat milk and no whipped cream.

9. Extreme Ice Cream

An average half-cup serving of Häagen-Dazs ice cream squeezes half-a-day’s saturated fat and a third-of-a-day’s cholesterol into your artery walls and makes a nearly 300-calorie down-payment on your next set of fat cells – if you can stop at a petite half-cup!

10. Stone Cold

Cold Stone Creamery’s Oh Fudge! shake (chocolate ice cream, milk, and fudge syrup) starts at 1,060 calories for the small “Like It” (16 oz) size. That’s more than a large (22 oz) McDonald’s McCafé Chocolate Shake. The medium “Love It” (20 oz) has 1,360 calories and the large “Gotta Have It” (24 oz) reaches 1,600 calories (almost an entire day’s worth) and 62 grams of saturated fat (3½ days’ worth). That’s the saturated fat content of two 16-oz ribeye steaks plus a buttered baked potato, all blended into a handy 24 oz cup.

Source: http://www.cspinet.org/

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Top 10 Worst Foods Not To Eat - Part [1/2]

1. Artery Crust

Judging by the label, Marie Callender’s (16.5 oz) Chicken Pot Pie has “only” 520 calories, 11 grams of saturated fat, and 800 mg of sodium. But look again. Those numbers are for only half a pie. Eat the entire pie, as most people probably do, and you’re talking 1,040 calories, 22 grams of saturated fat (more than a day’s worth), and 1,600 mg of sodium (an entire day’s worth).

2. Transgression

“0mg Cholesterol” declares the box of Parkay Margarine sticks. Does that mean Parkay stick margarine is good for your heart? Nope. It may be cholesterol-free, but each tablespoon of the spread has 1½ grams of trans fat and 1½ grams of saturated fat. And beware of other trans-filled sticks by Blue Bonnet, Land O Lakes, Country Crock, and Fleischmann’s. Shopping tip: Look for tub margarines instead – most have little or no trans fat.

3. Liquid Salt!

An average cup of Campbell’s regularCondensed Soup has 760 mg of sodium. But most people eat the whole can of soup, which contains 1,900 mg of sodium – more than most adults should consume in an entire day! Look for Campbell’s Healthy Request, Progresso Reduced Sodium, and Healthy Choice soups with sodium in the 400s (still a lot if you eat the whole can). Better yet, choose reduced-sodium soups by Amy’s, Imagine Foods, Pacific Natural Foods, and Tabatchnick.

4. Tortilla Terror

Interested in a Chipotle Chicken Burrito (tortilla, rice, pinto beans, cheese, chicken, sour cream, and salsa)? Think of its 970 calories, and 18 grams of saturated fat as three 6-inch Subway BLT Classic Subs! Skipping the cheese or sour cream cuts the saturated fat to 6 grams, but you still end up with 750 calories and more than a day’s worth of sodium. Yikes!

5. Factory Reject

People don’t expect light desserts at The Cheesecake Factory. But the Chocolate Tower Truffle Cakekicks things up a notch. If it weren’t served on its side, this one would stand over six inches tall. And upright or not, the slab of cake still weighs in at three-quarters of a pound. What do you get for all that heft? Just 1,760 calories and 2½ days’ worth of saturated fat (50 grams), mostly from chocolate, sugar, cream, white flour, and butter.

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Top 10 Heart-Healthy Foods You Should Know & Eat - Part [1/2]

6. Salmon

All fish is a source of good-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, but oily fish such as salmon also contains omega 3 fats that reduce blood clotting and inflammation.

Studies show that eating oily fish dramatically recues the risk of having a heart attack, even in older adults.

Omega 3 fats also help to prevent depression, and protect against the onset of dementia. Yep, it's true, fish really is an all-round brain food.

7. Tea

The drink loved by all Britons has a range of useful properties. The caffeine content is helpful for stimulating alertness, mood and motivation.

Tea counts towards the recommended eight cups of fluid daily, which is the minimum to avoid dehydration.

Tea, whether black or green, is a rich source of the antioxidant called catechins. Studies suggest that catechins protect the artery walls against the damage that causes heart disease and prevents formation of sticky blood clots.

Some population studies suggest as little as one cuppa a day seems to offer some protection.

8. Yogurt

Yogurt is an easily absorbed source of calcium. It's also a useful milk subsitute for people who can't digest large amounts of the milk sugar, lactose.

Yogurt has long been credited with a range of therapeutic benefits, many of which involve the health of the large intestine and the relief of gastrointestinal upsets.

The bacteria Lactobacillus GG, added to some yoghurt, are not digested, and reach the large intestine intact where they top up the other friendly bacteria living there.

The friendly bacteria fight harmful bacteria, including Clostridium difficile that can cause diarrhoea after a course of antibiotics.

9. Bananas

It's a myth that bananas are fattening. Bananas are slightly higher in energy than other fruits but the calories come mainly from carbohydrate; excellent for refuelling before, during or after exercise.

All types of fruit and vegetables contain plant chemicals or phytochemicals known as antioxidants. These antioxidants protect cells in the body against damage from free radicals that can cause heart disease and cancer.

Bananas are also jam-packed with potassium that helps lower blood pressure, and vitamin B6 for healthy skin and hair.

10. Brazil nuts

All nuts are generally full of essential vitamins, minerals and fibre. Recent studies suggest that eating a small handful of nuts four times a week can help reduce heart disease and satisfy food cravings.

Brazil nuts are one of the few good sources of selenium that may help protect against cancer, depression and Alzheimer's disease.

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

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Top 10 Heart-Healthy Foods You Should Know & Eat - Part [1/2]

All foods, even battered Mars bars, have some nutritional value. But there are 10 that are so beneficial to your health they are known as 'super foods'. Check them out here:

1. Apples

Over 7,500 varieties of apple are grown throughout the world. They are packed full of antioxidants, especially vitamin C for healthy skin and gums - one apple provides a quarter of your daily requirement of vitamin C.

Apples also contain a form of soluble fibre called pectin that can help to lower blood cholesterol levels and keep the digestive system healthy.

An apple is also a carbohydrate with a low glycaemic index (GI) type.

Low GI foods are digested slowly; once they are finally broken down in the intestine they are gradually absorbed into the bloodstreams as glucose, causing a gradual rise in blood sugar levels.

They may help with weight control, as well as improving diabetics' long-term control of blood sugar levels.

2. Baked beans

The humble baked bean is a nutritional powerhouse of protein, fibre, iron and calcium. It contains carbohydrate that, like that in apples, is of the low GI variety.

The tomato sauce covering baked beans is also a good source of lycopene, another powerful antioxidant shown to help prevent heart disease and prostate cancer.

The insoluble fibre in baked beans is not digested but moves into the large intestine, or colon, where bacteria act on it and produce short-chain fatty acids.

These fatty acids are thought to nourish the colon lining and protect it from carcinogenic (cancer-causing) invaders.

3. Broccoli

Just two florets - raw or lightly cooked - count as a veggie portion.

Not only does broccoli contain antioxidants including vitamin C but it's a particularly good source of folate (naturally occuring folic acid).

Increasing your intake of folic acid is thought to be of major benefit in preventing heart disease.

Broccoli also contains an antioxidant called lutein that can delay the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This affects 10 per cent of people over 60 and is a major cause of impaired vision and blindness.

Finally, broccoli also contains a phytochemical called sulphoraphane that has specific anti-cancer properties.

4. Olive oil

Several large studies suggest that the monosaturated fat in olive oil is good for the heart. Olive oil lower bad cholesterol levels and increases the good levels.

Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants - it's probably one of the key protective aspects of the so-called Mediterranean diet.

Watch out for the calories - a little goes a long way. A tablespoon of oil contains 120 kilocalories, which is the same as a large slice of bread and butter.

5. Wholegrain Seeded Bread

Breads containing a lot of seeds and wholegrain have a low GI, which can protect against heart disease, reduce hunger pangs, and help with weight control.

They are also packed with fibre, which keeps the gut working efficiently; and seeded breads contain essential fatty acids.

Studies show that including four flices of soya and linseed bread a day can give a does of phytoestrogens, through to relieve "hot flushes" in menopausal women.

The downside is that bread contains a lot of salt. However, the good news is that bread manufacturers have started to use less salt in their pre-packaged bread.

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10 Most Popular Japanese Dishes - Part [2/2]

Source: Wikimedia Commons

5. Ramen

Ramen is a very popular Japanese cuisine that is famous in around the world. Even in Japan, Ramen is known as one of the most popular foods. Ramen is usually eaten in a Ramen shop as an after-school or after-work snack by students or office workers on the way they head home. Ramen shop itself possesses a high peculiarity of Japanese society life.

Ramen is served in a large bowl, with delicious Ramen soup and a variety of toppings on it such as a circular shaped fish (called Naruto), boiled eggs, and vegetables. This food is very delicious to be eaten on a cold night.

Source: Flickr.com via CC

4. Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a very popular, traditional food from Osaka. The words Okonomiyaki means "grilled whatever you like". This dish is also popular to be served for small groups and enjoyed with friends. The concept of Okonomiyaki is actually quite simple, which is an omelette mixed with your favorite ingredients, such as beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetables.

In addition to having a rich flavor, Okonomiyaki also has a high nutrient content because in it there are also high quantity of vegetables such as cabbages and carrots that are sliced ​​into small pieces. The food is more delicious if it is served along with a glass of sake (traditional Japanese alcoholic drink) or Japanese tea.

Source: Flickr.com via Creative Commons

3. Takoyaki

Takoyaki is another example of Japanese most popular dishes in the world that originates from Osaka. Takoyaki is also known as the most popular "street food" in Japan. In almost every festival events, fairs, or outdoor concerts, you can find Takoyaki sellers with their uniquely shaped cart. Takoyaki also smells very delicious and its fragrance make you unable to resist yourself from buying it.

Takoyaki is made from squid-meat that is shaped like meatballs, then roasted or grilled. The outer part of Takoyaki looks crispy and crunchy, while the inside part is soft, juicy, and rich of flavor. Indeed, Takoyaki can be named as one of the tastiest Japanese cuisine!

2. Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is named as the "Royal Cuisine" because of its wonderful delicacy. Tonkatsu is made of pork that is deeply fried until it turns into light brown, golden color and looks extremely crispy. Nowadays, instead of pork, Tonkatsu is also made of beef.

Once it is well fried, Tonkatsu is served with grated radish, plum, Japanese pickles, and special sauces that brings the true delicious flavor of Tonkatsu. Tonkatsu is usually eaten with curry rice, so the deliciousness of this food is doubled.

1. Sushi

Without a doubt, sushi is the most popular and most delicious Japanese dish. This food is also listed in the list of 10 most delicious foods in the world. This is because Sushi is not only has very delicious flavor, but also it also has very high nutrient content that can nourish the brain.

Sushi is actually a simple dish. The meat of a fresh fish (usually salmon) is thinly sliced ​​and placed on top of the small portion of rice. Sushi is usually served with special sauce, and should be eaten in a single swallow. There are different variety of sushi that can be found in Japan, and the price of the sushi is also differs, based on their quality. If you visit Japan, it is compulsory to eat at a traditional sushi restaurant where you can see the sushi are prepared in front of you by the chefs, and served on a circular conveyor belt.

Source: http://maciejcorvo.hubpages.com/

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10 Most Popular Japanese Dishes - Part [1/2]

What is the Most Popular Japanese Dishes?

There are so many delicious traditional Japanese dishes that are famous around the world. These dishes were not only delicious, but also has a very high nutrient content and can nourish the body and brain. In this article we will discuss the most popular and delicious Japanese cuisine in the world. I believe there are some popular dishes that you already have tasted, such as sushi, Japanese curry rice, and Ramen. However, I'm sure that some of those cuisines are not familiar to you, such as Yakiniku, Yakitori, as well as Tonkatsu. Well, without further ado, here is the list of the most popular Japanese dishes in the world.

Source: by TheCulinaryGeek, Flickr.com via CC

10. Yakitori

Yakitori can also be called as "Japanese barbecue". This food is usually served at a gathering or during hang out session with friends in the pub, karaoke, or in a birthday party. Because of this reason, Yakitori is regarded as "hangout food" because this dish is almost present at every meetings or gathering.

Yakitori can be made from a variety of meats, from beef, pork, or chicken liver. The meat is baked until crispy, then coated in a sweet and sour sauce to reach such a high-level of delicacy. I'm sure you will love this cuisine from the first bite you eat it.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

9. Japanese Curry

Curry is a dish that originates from India, but it is also very popular in Japan. Unlike the Indian curry, Japanese curry has a more subtle flavor and not too spicy. As many Japanese people love this dish, curry is named as the official Japanese national cuisine. Usually, curry is served with a bowl of fragrant, warm a bowl of white rice.

Curry fans would be really happy to be in Japan. In this country, there are dozens of types of curry dishes and all of them are very tasty and exotic. There are varieties of meat that can be used in Japanese curry, ranging from chicken, beef, and seafood.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

8. Yakiniku

Yakiniku is actually a Korean cuisine, but it was adapted by Japanese chefs by using a variety of Japanese traditional spices and flavors to make it ,one of the most famous Japanese dishes. This cuisine is made from thinly sliced beef covered with delicious Japanese sauce, and then it is grilled over a barbecue grill by using a pair of chopsticks. Considering that the size of the sliced meat is relatively small, you have to be very skilled in using chopsticks to cook Yakiniku.

The process of cooking Yakiniku by yourself makes this dish taste better. Yakiniku is usually served at the restaurant, where you come with family or friends, formed a small circle around the grill, and chat while enjoying the taste of this delicious traditional Japanese cuisine.

Source: Flickr.com via Creative Commons

7. Nabe

Nabe can be called as a "pride of Japan" and if you visit Japan during winter season, you must taste it. Nabe is a Japanese traditional soup, but unlike the miso soup that has simpler ingredients (only consists of miso and tofu), Nabe has richer ingredients. Usually, in the Nabe sliced ​​meat, crabs, noodles, and vegetables are used.

Nabe is usually cooked in a hotpot, in a big pan filled with hot water and some seasonings. Then, ingredients are added into the hotpot, one by one and boiled until cooked and tender. After the ingredients are well cooked, then the Nabe soup is served to each family member.

Source: Flickr.com via CC

6. Onigiri

For those of you who love to read manga or watch anime, this food should be very familiar to you. Onigiri or "rice ball" is one kind of dish that can be found in any student's or office worker's lunchbox. Onigiri is also quite easy to make. You fill the rice with any ingredients that you want, shape the rice into a triangle or into a ball, then put salted and dried seaweed on top of the rice ball.

There are many different flavors of Onigiri, based on the ingredients that you used to fill it. Ranging from plums which have a sour taste, fish eggs, or small slices of fried salmon. Onigiri can be eaten plainly, or you can also eat it with a special sauce that can enrich the taste of this popular Japanese dish.

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Top 10 Best Thai Foods - Part [2/2]

6

Geng Kheaw Wan Gai (Green Curry Chicken)

So what gives green curry its colour? Green curry paste. Sorry, not an exciting answer, but it is an exciting dish. Of all the curries, and there’s plenty of them, the one that’s the colour of American money is among the spiciest. It’s also the least like Indian curry; Thailand has a way of making borrowed food distinctively Thai. The proof is in the coconut milk. 

7

Tom Kha Gai

Possibly the world's most refreshing soup, tom kaa gai (boiled galangal chicken) combines coconut milk with lemongrass, galangal ' ginger's Asian sister ' and chicken. It's a sweet, tame twist on tom yam goong. On a table filled with delectable Thai dishes, tom kaa gai stands out; your spoon will return to this bowl time and again.

8

Kao Phad (Fried Rice)

Ah, good old fried rice. On first sight, kao phad appears to be little more than a big heap of rice; you call that a meal? But try it. Augmented with your choice of meat ' shrimp and chicken being the most popular ' and egg, onion, cilantro, garlic, and tomotoes, this is rice with hidden secrets. Spice to taste with chili sauce and enjoy.

9

Massaman Curry

Massaman is the Thai word for "Muslim", which is the community to heartily thank for this concoction of coconut milk, potatoes, roasted peanuts, bay leaves, sugar, cinnamon, and tamarind sauce. The meat of choice is often beef or chicken, but because it's been embraced by the Buddhists, pork can also be found.

10

Khao man gai - chicken and rice

This is Thailand’s answer to British fish and chips – an ubiquitous meal served mostly during the daytime (while stocks last) at special khao man gai dedicated stalls and restaurants. The chicken is gently boiled until it is tender then the water is used in boiling the rice. This means that khao man gai – apart from being delicious – is high in cholesterol. Served with a chicken broth and delicious sweet and spicy sauces, it’s the perfect midday snack.

Source: http://www.phuket.com/

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