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by author Terry Willard, ClH, PhD
Sitting in my favourite Thai restaurant, I am surrounded by exotic smells that engulf my senses. I dig into Thai Hot and Sour soup (Tom Yum Gai) with great anticipation. Ahh…the wonderful taste of lemon grass.
It is wonderful knowing that your food not only smells and tastes great, but it is also a strong medicine. Lemon grass is one of those interesting herbs that is both a culinary herb and a medicinal herb.
Gastronomically Exotic
Lemon grass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) is a grass native to Sri Lanka and southern India and is now widely cultivated in the tropical areas of America and Asia. The exotic scent and taste has migrated around the world and is now included in the cuisines of Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, Mexico, and North America.
Lemon grass is commonly used in teas, soups, and curries. It is also suitable for adding flavour to poultry, fish, and seafood.
Medicinally Useful
Lemon grass makes a pleasant-smelling and -tasting tea, which is suitable for children to use for upset stomachs, coughs, and colds. It is listed in the German Commission E as a tonic to relieve discomforts in the gastrointestinal tract, muscle cramps, neuralgia, various nervous disturbances, and exhaustion.
Research shows that lemon grass has antifungal properties, making it quite useful to fight Candida yeast conditions as well as other fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot.
The essential oil has a pleasant lemony fragrance, which is known to have a wide range of beneficial activities attributed to its main constituent of citral, including antimicrobial, antifungal and antibacterial action; the ability to bring down a fever; relief from digestive difficulties; and deodorizing ability.
The essential oil is also used externally to treat ringworm, lice, athlete’s foot, arthritis, and scabies. In aromatherapy the oil is used to revitalize the body, relieve the symptoms of jetlag, clear headaches, and help to combat nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions.
Lemon grass has no known drug interactions and is considered nontoxic, though its essential oil has been known to cause skin irritation in a small number of sensitive people; discontinue use if any irritation occurs.
Thai Hot and Sour Soup (Tom Yum Gai)
Terry Willard, ClH, PhD, is director of the Wild Rose College of Natural Healing and author of 13 books including his latest Flower Essence: Emotional Alchemy and Spiritual Evolution(Wild Rose College, 2007).
Source: alive #310, August 2008
Herbal Medicine in the New Millennium
As we embark upon the new millennium, herbal medicines are everywhere. Herbs one could rarely find in health food stores 10 years ago now line their shelves. It's a sign of the times.
As we embark upon the new millennium, herbal medicines are everywhere. Herbs one could rarely find in health food stores 10 years ago now line their shelves. It's a sign of the times.
Beauty Supplements That May Surprise You!
Beauty is linked to health. And while everything you take into your body will have an effect on your outward appearance, some foods and supplements have more influence than others.
Beauty is linked to health. And while everything you take into your body will have an effect on your outward appearance, some foods and supplements have more influence than others.
Eastern European Favorites
With such a rich history, it's not surprising that Eastern Europe's food is famous for being quite hearty and hardy. By combining tradition with a healthier approach, I've come up with several lighter samples of popular recipes. These flavorful concoctions are sure to leave the palate--and the belly--fully satisfied..
With such a rich history, it's not surprising that Eastern Europe's food is famous for being quite hearty and hardy. By combining tradition with a healthier approach, I've come up with several lighter samples of popular recipes. These flavorful concoctions are sure to leave the palate--and the belly--fully satisfied..
Herbs
So you take your vitamins daily, exercise regularly and eat well. You drink lots of water and get enough slee.
So you take your vitamins daily, exercise regularly and eat well. You drink lots of water and get enough slee.
Herb Flavors To Savor
Fragrant herbs are always a joy, whether in the garden or in the kitchen. Some, like thyme and oregano, are trusted cooking classics, their flavors well-known to many a cuisine lover.
Fragrant herbs are always a joy, whether in the garden or in the kitchen. Some, like thyme and oregano, are trusted cooking classics, their flavors well-known to many a cuisine lover.
Reviving the Art of Poulticing
To our fast world of instant fixes, herbal poulticing may seem outdated and hardly worth the trouble required for preparation, but it can save time in the long run.
To our fast world of instant fixes, herbal poulticing may seem outdated and hardly worth the trouble required for preparation, but it can save time in the long run.
Winter Warmth
The cold of winter is here and our thoughts turn to cozying at the home hearth with loved one.
The cold of winter is here and our thoughts turn to cozying at the home hearth with loved one.
Bon Appetite
January means a fresh start--a new year, a healthier lifestyle. We're committed to our New Year's resolutions and whole foods are at the top of the list.
January means a fresh start--a new year, a healthier lifestyle. We're committed to our New Year's resolutions and whole foods are at the top of the list.
An Aboriginal Approach to Fighting Cancer
Cancer is like a prairie grass fire--it often spreads quickly and consumes all in its path. Buffalo medicine teaches us that those who survive the prairie fires keep a level head, knowing where to go to stay alive..
Cancer is like a prairie grass fire--it often spreads quickly and consumes all in its path. Buffalo medicine teaches us that those who survive the prairie fires keep a level head, knowing where to go to stay alive..
Find Infusions Confusin'?
Infusions, decoctions, tinctures, extracts, poultices. It's incredible how many ways the plant kingdom is used to ease human (and animal) suffering and discomfort, even in this modern world.
Infusions, decoctions, tinctures, extracts, poultices. It's incredible how many ways the plant kingdom is used to ease human (and animal) suffering and discomfort, even in this modern world.
Hey Mom, Take a Break
Meals should always be prepared with love and eaten with joy, especially on Mother's Day. This year, reward your mom for all her hard work. Take the time to serve her the healthiest and tastiest food possible. It will make her feel like a queen. (And don't forget to clean up afterwards!)
Meals should always be prepared with love and eaten with joy, especially on Mother's Day. This year, reward your mom for all her hard work. Take the time to serve her the healthiest and tastiest food possible. It will make her feel like a queen. (And don't forget to clean up afterwards!)
Sit Down to Sabzi
Ancient cultures travelled down the likes of the Euphrates and Nile rivers carrying herbs and spreading knowledge of their healing qualities.
Ancient cultures travelled down the likes of the Euphrates and Nile rivers carrying herbs and spreading knowledge of their healing qualities.
Beach Party!
August is the perfect month for outdoor eating. Invite friends and family to a picnic-at the beach, in the park, on top of a mountain or even in your own garden.
August is the perfect month for outdoor eating. Invite friends and family to a picnic-at the beach, in the park, on top of a mountain or even in your own garden.
Holiday Tradition with Nutrition
To prepare you for the holiday season, this year we're featuring an international selection of festive recipes that are both wholesome and tantalizing to your taste buds.
To prepare you for the holiday season, this year we're featuring an international selection of festive recipes that are both wholesome and tantalizing to your taste buds.
Stuff It!
Elegantly scooped and stuffed, the following delectable combinations give a new look to the most simple traditional food.
Elegantly scooped and stuffed, the following delectable combinations give a new look to the most simple traditional food.
Fun and Fabulous Fare with Fibre
Increasing your intake of high-fibre foods helps prevent disease and is another important step toward better health. Fibre keeps the bowels healthy and fills your stomach so you tend to eat less.
Increasing your intake of high-fibre foods helps prevent disease and is another important step toward better health. Fibre keeps the bowels healthy and fills your stomach so you tend to eat less.
Stinging Nettle: A Golden Oldie
Masan was once golden with shimmering leaves and a bright aura. The human beings did not pay their respect to this plant medicine, taking it for granted, passing it by without offering tobacco.
Masan was once golden with shimmering leaves and a bright aura. The human beings did not pay their respect to this plant medicine, taking it for granted, passing it by without offering tobacco.
Herbs for Hectic Times
Famous author and personality Deepak Chopra likes to tell a story about a medical doctor who had not had a check-up for 25 years. When the doctor finally was compelled to get a physical for life insurance requirements, a large dark spot was found on his lung. It was diagnosed as inoperable cancer. A couple of months later, the doctor was dead.
Famous author and personality Deepak Chopra likes to tell a story about a medical doctor who had not had a check-up for 25 years. When the doctor finally was compelled to get a physical for life insurance requirements, a large dark spot was found on his lung. It was diagnosed as inoperable cancer. A couple of months later, the doctor was dead.
Herbs 101
I first started to study herbal medicine in 1975 when I was 20 years old.
I first started to study herbal medicine in 1975 when I was 20 years old.
Happy in Herb Heaven
When I was growing up, my mother would send me into our herb garden to gather chives, parsley and lovage. I'll never forget being surrounded by the distinctive aromas and how she used these herbs to enhance the flavour of our soups, salads and more. Herbs are nature's special gift to us.
When I was growing up, my mother would send me into our herb garden to gather chives, parsley and lovage. I'll never forget being surrounded by the distinctive aromas and how she used these herbs to enhance the flavour of our soups, salads and more. Herbs are nature's special gift to us.
Libido-Enhancing Products
, also called "potency wood, has been used historically to treat sexual debility.
, also called "potency wood, has been used historically to treat sexual debility.
The Spirit of the Nature Doctor
The workers use only organic farming metho.
The workers use only organic farming metho.
Viva les Veggies
Ever since the Hunza tribe were studied in their Himalayan Shangri-La in the early 20th century, we, in the west, have been looking to other cultures for an anti-aging miracle. Recent research into the Okinawan peoples of Japan shows that eating whole grains, seaweed, and local fresh produce are other keys to long life..
Ever since the Hunza tribe were studied in their Himalayan Shangri-La in the early 20th century, we, in the west, have been looking to other cultures for an anti-aging miracle. Recent research into the Okinawan peoples of Japan shows that eating whole grains, seaweed, and local fresh produce are other keys to long life..
Prostate Power
Hundreds of scientific studies are proving soybeans have anticancer and antiviral properties because of the protease inhibitors they contain, which can act as antioxidants.
Hundreds of scientific studies are proving soybeans have anticancer and antiviral properties because of the protease inhibitors they contain, which can act as antioxidants.
Recipes For the Back-To-School Rush
September is a time of transition from the long lazy days of summer to the sometimes hectic, back-to-school schedule. Getting children to ballet and soccer practice and coordinating all the drop-offs and pickups mean that family life can get busy quickly. This month's recipes ease the transition by highlighting seasonal fresh market produce in easy late summer meals that are pulled together in 20 minutes or less.
September is a time of transition from the long lazy days of summer to the sometimes hectic, back-to-school schedule. Getting children to ballet and soccer practice and coordinating all the drop-offs and pickups mean that family life can get busy quickly. This month's recipes ease the transition by highlighting seasonal fresh market produce in easy late summer meals that are pulled together in 20 minutes or less.
A Light Meal to Welcome Crisper Days
October is such a great time for preparing locally grown food. I love combining crisp, colourful produce with the earthy flavours and feel of fall's root vegetables. The last of the local farmers' markets are happening now, and they're the perfect place to load up on herbs, specialty cheeses, and produce.
October is such a great time for preparing locally grown food. I love combining crisp, colourful produce with the earthy flavours and feel of fall's root vegetables. The last of the local farmers' markets are happening now, and they're the perfect place to load up on herbs, specialty cheeses, and produce.
These Festive Dishes will Dazzle Your Holiday Guests
During the holiday season it's traditional to indulge in too much buttery shortbread cookies and fatty ham and turkey. So this month I have put together a combination of recipes that load our bodies with fibre, vitamins, nutrients, and healthy fats to reverse the trend and boost health.
During the holiday season it's traditional to indulge in too much buttery shortbread cookies and fatty ham and turkey. So this month I have put together a combination of recipes that load our bodies with fibre, vitamins, nutrients, and healthy fats to reverse the trend and boost health.
New Roots Herbal
Peter Wilkes, founder and president of New Roots Herbal, is no newcomer to the natural health industry. In 1977, Wilkes founded Community Natural Foods; two years later, he launched a second company, Christmas Natural Foods, in Richmond, British Columbia..
Peter Wilkes, founder and president of New Roots Herbal, is no newcomer to the natural health industry. In 1977, Wilkes founded Community Natural Foods; two years later, he launched a second company, Christmas Natural Foods, in Richmond, British Columbia..
Healing Traditions of Latin America
. It's the ancient Mayan herb that has strengthened men's sexual potency in the forests of Central America for centuries.
. It's the ancient Mayan herb that has strengthened men's sexual potency in the forests of Central America for centuries.
Shopping List for a Healthy Heart
Vitamin E (100 percent natural source mixed toco.
Vitamin E (100 percent natural source mixed toco.
Happy 30th anniversary, alive!
This month marks the beginning of alive magazine's fourth decade. Over the years, millions of readers have benefited from the information, advocacy, and guidance provided through the pages of alive.
This month marks the beginning of alive magazine's fourth decade. Over the years, millions of readers have benefited from the information, advocacy, and guidance provided through the pages of alive.
Cancer-Free Dining
Everyone wants health and potential protection from cancer, but few of us know how to successfully implement healthful chang.
Everyone wants health and potential protection from cancer, but few of us know how to successfully implement healthful chang.
Natural Digestive Aids
Peter Rabbit's mother knew the therapeutic value of natural digestive aids. She dosed Peter with a cup of strong camomile tea after his overeating escapades in Mr. McGregor's garden gave him a bad case of indigestio.
Peter Rabbit's mother knew the therapeutic value of natural digestive aids. She dosed Peter with a cup of strong camomile tea after his overeating escapades in Mr. McGregor's garden gave him a bad case of indigestio.
The Art of Wild Harvesting
Individually, many of us have little ongoing direct experience with plant life. However, big business is quickly recognizing the huge profit potential in selling herbal medicine. At the very least we may say that herbal medicine is re-emerging as people discover its many positive qualities.
Individually, many of us have little ongoing direct experience with plant life. However, big business is quickly recognizing the huge profit potential in selling herbal medicine. At the very least we may say that herbal medicine is re-emerging as people discover its many positive qualities.
Sauerkraut
Unpasteurized sauerkraut is tasty, packed full of goodness and easy to make. Throughout history, the main ingredient, cabbage, has been called "the physician of the poor" because of its healing powers.
Unpasteurized sauerkraut is tasty, packed full of goodness and easy to make. Throughout history, the main ingredient, cabbage, has been called "the physician of the poor" because of its healing powers.
Full of Beans
Blood sugar levels are easy to manage with a diet that focuses on whole foods and beans, which consistently appear on the low end of the glycemic index (a measure of how a given food will raise blood sugar when compared to pure glucose). Beans are an excellent source of protein, but they also contain protective fibre; for example, one cup (250 mL) of chickpeas provides 11 grams of fibre.
Blood sugar levels are easy to manage with a diet that focuses on whole foods and beans, which consistently appear on the low end of the glycemic index (a measure of how a given food will raise blood sugar when compared to pure glucose). Beans are an excellent source of protein, but they also contain protective fibre; for example, one cup (250 mL) of chickpeas provides 11 grams of fibre.
Nature Doctor Revisited
Dr Alfred Vogel was the ultimate herbal pioneer. This Swiss naturopath spent his youth on safari: he tracked native botanical remedies in tropical jungles, South American deserts and American plains. It was, in fact, Vogel who brought echinacea to the attention of the western world.
Dr Alfred Vogel was the ultimate herbal pioneer. This Swiss naturopath spent his youth on safari: he tracked native botanical remedies in tropical jungles, South American deserts and American plains. It was, in fact, Vogel who brought echinacea to the attention of the western world.
Easy Traditional Elegance
This December I've put together some traditional favourites that are easy to prepare so you have more time to visit with friends and family. These recipes are also done the low-fat way, to give them a new, healthier twist.
This December I've put together some traditional favourites that are easy to prepare so you have more time to visit with friends and family. These recipes are also done the low-fat way, to give them a new, healthier twist.
The Gramercy Guide to Better Cooking
Every year we vow to eat better, immerse ourselves more completely in the joys of cooking, and become more at home on the range. This New Year's resolution can be the first step toward entering into a whole new relationship with your kitchen.
Every year we vow to eat better, immerse ourselves more completely in the joys of cooking, and become more at home on the range. This New Year's resolution can be the first step toward entering into a whole new relationship with your kitchen.
Go West
Executive chef David Hawksworth creates sensations on a nightly basis while crafting seasonal simplicity in high style at one of Vancouver's top-ranked restaurants, West. His appealing dishes garner international essence with their local flavours and global appeal.
Executive chef David Hawksworth creates sensations on a nightly basis while crafting seasonal simplicity in high style at one of Vancouver's top-ranked restaurants, West. His appealing dishes garner international essence with their local flavours and global appeal.
Interest in Herbal Healing Increases
In North America most medical doctors prescribe pharmaceutical drugs to treat their patients' symptoms. While drugs effectively suppress symptoms, they can produce side effects and imbalances in the body that may worsen the condition or result in additional ailments or illness.
In North America most medical doctors prescribe pharmaceutical drugs to treat their patients' symptoms. While drugs effectively suppress symptoms, they can produce side effects and imbalances in the body that may worsen the condition or result in additional ailments or illness.
Vintropolis
If it grows together, it goes together. Such is the mantra that keeps Chef Tony Marzo's cooking focused. Holding court within Vintropolis, one of Vancouver's most celebrated newcomers, his reputation is growing and things are going together better than he ever imagined.
If it grows together, it goes together. Such is the mantra that keeps Chef Tony Marzo's cooking focused. Holding court within Vintropolis, one of Vancouver's most celebrated newcomers, his reputation is growing and things are going together better than he ever imagined.
Jolt Without the Jitters
We may love the aroma and initial effects of our morning coffee, but the potential for headaches, nervousness, and insomnia leaves a bitter aftertaste.
We may love the aroma and initial effects of our morning coffee, but the potential for headaches, nervousness, and insomnia leaves a bitter aftertaste.
Natural Immune-Health Products
All diseases, from colds to cancer, have one thing in common. They can all be defeated by our body's own powerful immune response. There is much we can do to ensure this self-healing system functions optimally. Eating an organic, natural foods diet fortified by taking immune-supporting nutritional and herbal supplements, drinking purified water, exercising daily, and being mindful and positive creates the best self-healing environment.
All diseases, from colds to cancer, have one thing in common. They can all be defeated by our body's own powerful immune response. There is much we can do to ensure this self-healing system functions optimally. Eating an organic, natural foods diet fortified by taking immune-supporting nutritional and herbal supplements, drinking purified water, exercising daily, and being mindful and positive creates the best self-healing environment.
Open to Inspiration
When Aurora Bistro first lit up the neighbourhood on Vancouver's Main Street, it gained as much attention for its regionally rooted philosophy as for the freshness of its plates and wine list. Aurora's chief kitchen creative is a firm fan of sensibly delicious cooking. Moreover, chef Jeff Van Geest makes no claims to doing anything other than treating food with the respect it deserves.
When Aurora Bistro first lit up the neighbourhood on Vancouver's Main Street, it gained as much attention for its regionally rooted philosophy as for the freshness of its plates and wine list. Aurora's chief kitchen creative is a firm fan of sensibly delicious cooking. Moreover, chef Jeff Van Geest makes no claims to doing anything other than treating food with the respect it deserves.
Eat, Shrink and Be Merry
With this new release from popular authors and sisters Janet and Greta Podleski, we're assured that "healthy eating is a piece of cake! After a five-year hiatus, they're back with refreshed energy to help the nutritionally challenged among us create healthier, tastier meals.
With this new release from popular authors and sisters Janet and Greta Podleski, we're assured that "healthy eating is a piece of cake! After a five-year hiatus, they're back with refreshed energy to help the nutritionally challenged among us create healthier, tastier meals.
The Life of Riley
With its vaulted ceiling, centrepiece community table, and primarily piscine menu, Coast Restaurant (coastrestaurant.ca) lives by its motto: Catch, Cook, Eat. Embracing seasonality on a global level, the fresh fish sheet follows an international code of ethics and appeal.
With its vaulted ceiling, centrepiece community table, and primarily piscine menu, Coast Restaurant (coastrestaurant.ca) lives by its motto: Catch, Cook, Eat. Embracing seasonality on a global level, the fresh fish sheet follows an international code of ethics and appeal.
Soak up the Relaxation
Long-term emotional or environmental stresses can be hard on the body, mind, and emotions. Quality essential oils have powerful yet subtle effects on emotions and can help relieve stress and anxiety when used in baths, massages, or in aromatherapy diffusers.
Long-term emotional or environmental stresses can be hard on the body, mind, and emotions. Quality essential oils have powerful yet subtle effects on emotions and can help relieve stress and anxiety when used in baths, massages, or in aromatherapy diffusers.
Spa Lite Cuisine
This month we've gone to the professionals to create a meal that not only nourishes but helps improve our mood on even the most stressful day. What better place for de-stressing advice than the Vida Wellness Spa, tucked tastefully within The Sutton Place Hotel in downtown Vancouver?
This month we've gone to the professionals to create a meal that not only nourishes but helps improve our mood on even the most stressful day. What better place for de-stressing advice than the Vida Wellness Spa, tucked tastefully within The Sutton Place Hotel in downtown Vancouver?
Cru
Crisp, mellow, luscious, juicy, smooth, and big: much like the descriptors of its uniquely colour-coded wine list, Cru defies easy definition. Not only one of the best-heeled wine bars on the West Coast, Cru is also revered for the regional authenticity of its cuisine.
Crisp, mellow, luscious, juicy, smooth, and big: much like the descriptors of its uniquely colour-coded wine list, Cru defies easy definition. Not only one of the best-heeled wine bars on the West Coast, Cru is also revered for the regional authenticity of its cuisine.
Better Than Chocolate
Centuries ago, when indigenous people in the South American rainforest discovered the good energy provided by the leaves of the yerba maté tree (Ilex paraguariensis), it became the base of their herbal medicine. Now, scientific review is substantiating their reverence for "maté (pronounced in two syllables as ma-tae).
Centuries ago, when indigenous people in the South American rainforest discovered the good energy provided by the leaves of the yerba maté tree (Ilex paraguariensis), it became the base of their herbal medicine. Now, scientific review is substantiating their reverence for "maté (pronounced in two syllables as ma-tae).
Quattro
An hour gazing out on the water that separates their North Vancouver restaurant from the architectural horizon of Vancouver's core is enough to convince anyone with a romantic ear that Quattro is a family business rich with "abbondanza, the Italian poetry of life.
An hour gazing out on the water that separates their North Vancouver restaurant from the architectural horizon of Vancouver's core is enough to convince anyone with a romantic ear that Quattro is a family business rich with "abbondanza, the Italian poetry of life.
Feenie's Fine Line
For all the accolades and awards that have been bestowed upon Chef Rob Feenie, he remains a man of simple passions doing what he truly loves. While every facet of his Vancouver operations reflects his AAA 5-diamond status, he stays grounded and inspired by what every season has to offer.
For all the accolades and awards that have been bestowed upon Chef Rob Feenie, he remains a man of simple passions doing what he truly loves. While every facet of his Vancouver operations reflects his AAA 5-diamond status, he stays grounded and inspired by what every season has to offer.
Pantry Raid
It's the end of an award-winning year for alive magazine. To celebrate, we're taking a look back at one of alive's newest features: the Fresh Sheet. Featuring the finest in contemporary, healthy cuisine, this new food column from writer Jason McRobbie showcases some of Canada's greatest restaurants and the chefs who put those restaurants on the Canadian culinary map.
It's the end of an award-winning year for alive magazine. To celebrate, we're taking a look back at one of alive's newest features: the Fresh Sheet. Featuring the finest in contemporary, healthy cuisine, this new food column from writer Jason McRobbie showcases some of Canada's greatest restaurants and the chefs who put those restaurants on the Canadian culinary map.
Make This Holiday Feast a Rare One
Small rooms with big hearts and exquisite food are a staple of the Vancouver dining scene. Even so, Rare One lives up to its unique moniker with an energy, presentation, and ingredient list that has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike.
Small rooms with big hearts and exquisite food are a staple of the Vancouver dining scene. Even so, Rare One lives up to its unique moniker with an energy, presentation, and ingredient list that has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike.
Leafy Winter Vegetables
Green leafy vegetables like curly leaf kale and colourful chard are so powerful, we can get huge nutritional benefits from eating them daily. Not only are they affordable, low in calories, fat-free, and delicious, they can be made into a variety of dishes.
Green leafy vegetables like curly leaf kale and colourful chard are so powerful, we can get huge nutritional benefits from eating them daily. Not only are they affordable, low in calories, fat-free, and delicious, they can be made into a variety of dishes.
A Healthy Habit...to Start the Year
Healthier eating is a good habit to develop. Now is the time to rethink the condiment rack, read food labels a little more closely, and explore the delicious alternatives to be found in your local specialty stores, ethnic food markets, and local community.
Healthier eating is a good habit to develop. Now is the time to rethink the condiment rack, read food labels a little more closely, and explore the delicious alternatives to be found in your local specialty stores, ethnic food markets, and local community.
Build Better Food Habits
You can form a new habit in less than a month. So try a 30-day resolution and set yourself on a lifelong road to health. Changing just one thing, every month of the year for 30 years, would lead to a vitally vibrant life indeed.
You can form a new habit in less than a month. So try a 30-day resolution and set yourself on a lifelong road to health. Changing just one thing, every month of the year for 30 years, would lead to a vitally vibrant life indeed.
The Healing Power of Botanical Medicine
Dear Medical Advisor: I am the mother of a 19-year-old female athlete who does not have a monthly cycle. Her diet has been poor (her choice).
Dear Medical Advisor: I am the mother of a 19-year-old female athlete who does not have a monthly cycle. Her diet has been poor (her choice).
Flora
Flora Health has been manufacturing and distributing organic health products since 1965 and is a recognized pioneer in its fiel.
Flora Health has been manufacturing and distributing organic health products since 1965 and is a recognized pioneer in its fiel.
Swiss Herbal
Swiss Herbal started out as a small home-based import business in the fifties, but has grown over the years to become the provider of Canada's largest selection of natural health remedies.
Swiss Herbal started out as a small home-based import business in the fifties, but has grown over the years to become the provider of Canada's largest selection of natural health remedies.
Flora
One reason for Flora's continued success is the on-going commitment to innovation.
One reason for Flora's continued success is the on-going commitment to innovation.
Nu-Life
When the low-carb diet craze exploded, companies from nearly every food-related industry responded by rushing to develop low-carb products. As these companies scrambled to cash in on the dieting trend of the year, store shelves filled with low-carb cereals, low-carb ice cream, and even low-carb beer.
When the low-carb diet craze exploded, companies from nearly every food-related industry responded by rushing to develop low-carb products. As these companies scrambled to cash in on the dieting trend of the year, store shelves filled with low-carb cereals, low-carb ice cream, and even low-carb beer.
Puresource
If you have any doubt that public interest in natural health products has been on the rise for years, consider the fact that natural products distributor Puresource was named on Profit Magazine's list of the 100 fastest growing Canadian companies three times between 1997 and 2000.
If you have any doubt that public interest in natural health products has been on the rise for years, consider the fact that natural products distributor Puresource was named on Profit Magazine's list of the 100 fastest growing Canadian companies three times between 1997 and 2000.
Inno-Vite
Leaving a secure career to follow your dreams is a risky move-but for Cornelius and Donna Pasare, it was also the right move.
Leaving a secure career to follow your dreams is a risky move-but for Cornelius and Donna Pasare, it was also the right move.
The Flora way: Do what can't be done
It's not every natural health company that can offer "products and services for the purification and upliftment of the body and spirit, but Flora isn't just any natural health company.
It's not every natural health company that can offer "products and services for the purification and upliftment of the body and spirit, but Flora isn't just any natural health company.
An Exhibition of Culinary Consciousness
Ensconced within the pristine halls of Toronto's Gardiner Museum, Chef Jamie Kennedy's most recent room is a study in organic elegance. Surrounded by walls of glass overlooking the ongoing renovation of the Royal Ontario Museum, the aptly named Jamie Kennedy Restaurant at the Gardiner Museum is well-positioned in Toronto's historical heartland.
Ensconced within the pristine halls of Toronto's Gardiner Museum, Chef Jamie Kennedy's most recent room is a study in organic elegance. Surrounded by walls of glass overlooking the ongoing renovation of the Royal Ontario Museum, the aptly named Jamie Kennedy Restaurant at the Gardiner Museum is well-positioned in Toronto's historical heartland.
Sweet Surrender
For Anna Olson, life is sweet. Her Food Network program "Sugar has finished its fifth season; the second cookbook, Another Cup of Sugar (Whitecap, 2006), was released last fall; and her Port Dalhousie Olson Foods and Bakery is drawing droves of customers from the Niagara Peninsula.
For Anna Olson, life is sweet. Her Food Network program "Sugar has finished its fifth season; the second cookbook, Another Cup of Sugar (Whitecap, 2006), was released last fall; and her Port Dalhousie Olson Foods and Bakery is drawing droves of customers from the Niagara Peninsula.
Cruciferous Confessions
I have a confession to make. Despite being a self-proclaimed adventurer in new foods, I have only just discovered kohlrabi. It could be because this round, purple vegetable looks so odd. But as a member of the cruciferous family of vegetables, kohlrabi is worth trying.
I have a confession to make. Despite being a self-proclaimed adventurer in new foods, I have only just discovered kohlrabi. It could be because this round, purple vegetable looks so odd. But as a member of the cruciferous family of vegetables, kohlrabi is worth trying.
Treadwell
The restaurant's name says it all: Treadwell Farm to Table Cuisine. Perched at the mouth of Niagara's original canal system, the location is both idyllic and deliciously fitting.
The restaurant's name says it all: Treadwell Farm to Table Cuisine. Perched at the mouth of Niagara's original canal system, the location is both idyllic and deliciously fitting.
Capitalizing on Seasonal Sustainability
Few dining rooms take the celebration of local terroir to heart as tastefully as does C, Vancouver's wildly lauded contemporary seafood restaurant. Suitably ensconced across from the False Creek Marina at Granville Island, C has always had a clear view when it comes to matters of freshness.
Few dining rooms take the celebration of local terroir to heart as tastefully as does C, Vancouver's wildly lauded contemporary seafood restaurant. Suitably ensconced across from the False Creek Marina at Granville Island, C has always had a clear view when it comes to matters of freshness.
Fire Up Your Summer Menu
As the weather gets warmer, instead of slaving over a hot stove, try these healthy and delicious recipes that will have you and your friends relishing the tastes of summer-in less than 30 minutes, fridge to plate.
As the weather gets warmer, instead of slaving over a hot stove, try these healthy and delicious recipes that will have you and your friends relishing the tastes of summer-in less than 30 minutes, fridge to plate.
Licorice
The Romans called it Radix dulcis, meaning "sweet root. The Germans called it "sweet wood. The armies of Alexander carried it to allay thirst, the Sioux in North America chewed it for toothache, and medieval English governments taxed it. Licorice has been used in many ways by many cultures.
The Romans called it Radix dulcis, meaning "sweet root. The Germans called it "sweet wood. The armies of Alexander carried it to allay thirst, the Sioux in North America chewed it for toothache, and medieval English governments taxed it. Licorice has been used in many ways by many cultures.
Reflections Gastronomie Takes Flight
Once the busiest fishing port in the world, Steveston (located just south of Vancouver) offers more than just fish-and-chip shops. The wharf is bustling with tea rooms, book shops, and boutiques - along with Reflections Gastronomie, a recently opened, regionally rooted bistro with healthy aspirations of success.
Once the busiest fishing port in the world, Steveston (located just south of Vancouver) offers more than just fish-and-chip shops. The wharf is bustling with tea rooms, book shops, and boutiques - along with Reflections Gastronomie, a recently opened, regionally rooted bistro with healthy aspirations of success.
Local Eating
The 100-Mile Diet by Alissa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon (Random House Canada, 2007) and its approach to eating locally grown food seems blissfully easy with the abundant fruit and vegetable crops of summer. But what do you do in the fall and winter?
The 100-Mile Diet by Alissa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon (Random House Canada, 2007) and its approach to eating locally grown food seems blissfully easy with the abundant fruit and vegetable crops of summer. But what do you do in the fall and winter?
The Fresh Sheet 07
alive had a lot to live up to following The Fresh Sheet's successful inaugural year. This year we ventured farther from our West Coast base, as food writer Jason McRobbie visited fresh new faces and places as well as veteran chefs and established restaurants across Canada's culinary map.
alive had a lot to live up to following The Fresh Sheet's successful inaugural year. This year we ventured farther from our West Coast base, as food writer Jason McRobbie visited fresh new faces and places as well as veteran chefs and established restaurants across Canada's culinary map.
Slice: Health Inspired Food
Slice is more than a book of healthy recipes. While it is not a full compendium on nutrition, either, this cookbook is filled with important insight that easily relates to individual dishes.
Slice is more than a book of healthy recipes. While it is not a full compendium on nutrition, either, this cookbook is filled with important insight that easily relates to individual dishes.
Vij's Setting a Green Table Standart
For over a decade now, Vikram Vij has been an ambassador of good taste. Together with his wife and partner, Meeru, he has been guided by the simplest and purest of principles: to offer a taste of their homeland using the freshest local ingredients possible.
For over a decade now, Vikram Vij has been an ambassador of good taste. Together with his wife and partner, Meeru, he has been guided by the simplest and purest of principles: to offer a taste of their homeland using the freshest local ingredients possible.
Yucca
Did you know that a substance found in fresh flowers from the yucca plant combats some strains of melanoma in test tube studies and in mice? Although the effectiveness of yucca with human melanoma has yet to be proven, this often overlooked ornamental shrub is medicinally useful in a number of ways.
Did you know that a substance found in fresh flowers from the yucca plant combats some strains of melanoma in test tube studies and in mice? Although the effectiveness of yucca with human melanoma has yet to be proven, this often overlooked ornamental shrub is medicinally useful in a number of ways.
White Willow
Most people who enjoy a leisurely stroll through lakeside parks are familiar with the willow tree. Its boughs weep gracefully toward the ground or dip languidly into nearby water. What people might not realize is that constituents found within willow bark have revolutionized pain management in modern medicine.
Most people who enjoy a leisurely stroll through lakeside parks are familiar with the willow tree. Its boughs weep gracefully toward the ground or dip languidly into nearby water. What people might not realize is that constituents found within willow bark have revolutionized pain management in modern medicine.
Ultimate Foods for Ultimate Health
Authors Liz Pearson and Mairlyn Smith form a winning combination-two vibrant women clearly committed to inspiring change in readers and helping them build confidence about their healthy food choices.
Authors Liz Pearson and Mairlyn Smith form a winning combination-two vibrant women clearly committed to inspiring change in readers and helping them build confidence about their healthy food choices.
Emerald Lake Lodge
A jewel of the Rockies ever since opening its doors more than 100 years ago, BC's Emerald Lake Lodge continues to draw visitors from the world over in search of adventure-both on and off the plate.
A jewel of the Rockies ever since opening its doors more than 100 years ago, BC's Emerald Lake Lodge continues to draw visitors from the world over in search of adventure-both on and off the plate.
Fibre-Full Recipes
Fibre has always been one of my favourite subjects to commiserate about. Chocolate, fruits and veggies, and nuts are always getting the buzz in the media, and I've always felt that poor lowly fibre doesn't get the accolades it deserves.
Fibre has always been one of my favourite subjects to commiserate about. Chocolate, fruits and veggies, and nuts are always getting the buzz in the media, and I've always felt that poor lowly fibre doesn't get the accolades it deserves.
Hot and Cold
The idea that herbs can be heating or cooling is often connected with traditional Chinese or Ayurvedic medicine. Many people do not realize that this classification of herbal remedies was also a vital part of Western medicine for almost 2,000 years.
The idea that herbs can be heating or cooling is often connected with traditional Chinese or Ayurvedic medicine. Many people do not realize that this classification of herbal remedies was also a vital part of Western medicine for almost 2,000 years.
White Tea
There is nothing better than a hot cup of tea to relax the body and refresh the mind after a long, stressful day. Before indulging in your usual cuppa, consider the newest addition to the beverage market-white tea.
There is nothing better than a hot cup of tea to relax the body and refresh the mind after a long, stressful day. Before indulging in your usual cuppa, consider the newest addition to the beverage market-white tea.
Little Green Giant
Mom was right: eating your vegetables is good for your health.
Mom was right: eating your vegetables is good for your health.
Celebrating Spring with Araxi
Even in the depths of winter, Araxi Restaurant's executive chef, James Walt manages to root out a cornucopia of seasonal sustenance from the local growers surrounding histler, BC.
Even in the depths of winter, Araxi Restaurant's executive chef, James Walt manages to root out a cornucopia of seasonal sustenance from the local growers surrounding histler, BC.
Gluten-Free Quick and Easy: From Prep to Plate Without the Fuss
by Carol Fenster, PhD Avery, 2007; 352 pages; paperback $23.50 ISBN 978-1-58333-278-8
by Carol Fenster, PhD Avery, 2007; 352 pages; paperback $23.50 ISBN 978-1-58333-278-8
Fuel
Food can be many things: a source of nourishment, comfort, and connection. At Fuel, tucked into the bustle of Vancouver's 4th Avenue, the aspiration is to make it all of the above.
Food can be many things: a source of nourishment, comfort, and connection. At Fuel, tucked into the bustle of Vancouver's 4th Avenue, the aspiration is to make it all of the above.
Harbingers of Spring
One of the first signs that spring is on the way is the annual rhubarb sighting. Canadian pioneers considered rhubarb a tonic. Nutritionally, rhubarb lives up to its historical background. It's a good source of vitamin C and potassium, a vitamin and mineral (respectively) the pioneers would need by the time spring rolled around.
One of the first signs that spring is on the way is the annual rhubarb sighting. Canadian pioneers considered rhubarb a tonic. Nutritionally, rhubarb lives up to its historical background. It's a good source of vitamin C and potassium, a vitamin and mineral (respectively) the pioneers would need by the time spring rolled around.
One With the Season
Cooking with fresh seasonal ingredients makes one happier where it counts most: in the kitchen. At One restaurant, in the heart of Toronto's five-star Hazelton Hotel, Mark McEwan knows the value of happy cooks and has worked hard to develop a strong culinary culture since the restaurant opened in August 2007.
Cooking with fresh seasonal ingredients makes one happier where it counts most: in the kitchen. At One restaurant, in the heart of Toronto's five-star Hazelton Hotel, Mark McEwan knows the value of happy cooks and has worked hard to develop a strong culinary culture since the restaurant opened in August 2007.
Eigensinn Farm
Standing tall and living close to the land, Michael Stadtlander is a veritable giant in his field. As a chef, farmer, author, and multimedia artist, he is also one of Canada's leading culinary icons, pioneering a return to authenticity at Eigensinn Farm, just outside of Collingwood, Ontario.
Standing tall and living close to the land, Michael Stadtlander is a veritable giant in his field. As a chef, farmer, author, and multimedia artist, he is also one of Canada's leading culinary icons, pioneering a return to authenticity at Eigensinn Farm, just outside of Collingwood, Ontario.
Berry Healthy
For outstanding performance in taste and nutrition the Oscar goes to-blueberries! These sweet, blue treats are rightfully occupying preferred status on the nutritional red carpet. For getting health-enhancing antioxidant protection in your bowl, you can't do better than eating blueberries.
For outstanding performance in taste and nutrition the Oscar goes to-blueberries! These sweet, blue treats are rightfully occupying preferred status on the nutritional red carpet. For getting health-enhancing antioxidant protection in your bowl, you can't do better than eating blueberries.
Secrets of Self-Healing
Author Dr. Maoshing Ni is better known online and elsewhere simply as Dr. Mao. Together with his brother (heirs to a long lineage of Taoist masters in healing), Mao has several books to his credit and currently practises medicine at California's Tao of Wellness.
Author Dr. Maoshing Ni is better known online and elsewhere simply as Dr. Mao. Together with his brother (heirs to a long lineage of Taoist masters in healing), Mao has several books to his credit and currently practises medicine at California's Tao of Wellness.
Eucalyptus
For some, the eucalyptus tree may conjure up images of koala bears frolicking in the Australian outback. Yet for the country's first settlers, the aromatic plant went far beyond providing a playground for furry marsupials; it was quickly dubbed "the fever tree for its many disease-fighting abilities.
For some, the eucalyptus tree may conjure up images of koala bears frolicking in the Australian outback. Yet for the country's first settlers, the aromatic plant went far beyond providing a playground for furry marsupials; it was quickly dubbed "the fever tree for its many disease-fighting abilities.
Comfort Cuisine
Can the aroma of a Sunday dinner roasting in a wood oven last a lifetime? In the case of Executive Chef Hans Sauter, who first fell in love with cooking at his grandmother's table in a small Swiss town, the answer is deliciously affirmative.
Can the aroma of a Sunday dinner roasting in a wood oven last a lifetime? In the case of Executive Chef Hans Sauter, who first fell in love with cooking at his grandmother's table in a small Swiss town, the answer is deliciously affirmative.
Easy on the Tummy
So don't. Skip the weigh-in for today and have an easy tummy day. Drink water to flush out all the extra salt you may have consumed, have a light breakfast of fruit and probiotic yogourt, a simple lunch of salad and a lean protein, and a dinner of whole grains.
So don't. Skip the weigh-in for today and have an easy tummy day. Drink water to flush out all the extra salt you may have consumed, have a light breakfast of fruit and probiotic yogourt, a simple lunch of salad and a lean protein, and a dinner of whole grains.
The Art of Simple Food
Famed restaurauteur and food activist Alice Waters teaches fundamental techniques while instilling in readers a healthy planet food philosophy and culinary creativity. Although the "buy local, buy organic approach is a recent phenomenon, this author has long been considered a pioneer in the slow food movement. This is where modern meets traditional.
Famed restaurauteur and food activist Alice Waters teaches fundamental techniques while instilling in readers a healthy planet food philosophy and culinary creativity. Although the "buy local, buy organic approach is a recent phenomenon, this author has long been considered a pioneer in the slow food movement. This is where modern meets traditional.
Rustic Regionalism
With its pristine setting, five diamonds, and four stars, the Banffshire Club at the Fairmont Banff Springs has earned a reputation for epicurean excellence and no small measure of rustic elegance. Deepening the room's regional roots has been a mission for some time.
With its pristine setting, five diamonds, and four stars, the Banffshire Club at the Fairmont Banff Springs has earned a reputation for epicurean excellence and no small measure of rustic elegance. Deepening the room's regional roots has been a mission for some time.
Make Way for Marsh Mallow
The botanical name for marsh mallow, Althaea officinalis, is Greek for "to cure. Pliny the Elder (23 to 79 AD), naturalist and philosopher, said, "Whosoever shall take a spoonful of mallow shall be free from all diseases that may come.
The botanical name for marsh mallow, Althaea officinalis, is Greek for "to cure. Pliny the Elder (23 to 79 AD), naturalist and philosopher, said, "Whosoever shall take a spoonful of mallow shall be free from all diseases that may come.
Edible Christmas Gifts
Blame it on my hormones, but the older I get, the more it seems to me that Christmas has become a commercialized gift-giving extravaganza.
Blame it on my hormones, but the older I get, the more it seems to me that Christmas has become a commercialized gift-giving extravaganza.
Herbal Cleansing
Plants cleanse and revitalize our bodies from the inside. Our body systems are designed to utilize the benefits of plants, and we may suffer chronic illness and premature aging if we do not consume enough botanical bounties.
Plants cleanse and revitalize our bodies from the inside. Our body systems are designed to utilize the benefits of plants, and we may suffer chronic illness and premature aging if we do not consume enough botanical bounties.
Hormonal Harmony
Irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, and nutritional deficiencies leading to heart issues and bone loss are only a few of the health concerns associated with hormonal imbalances due to menopause.
Irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, and nutritional deficiencies leading to heart issues and bone loss are only a few of the health concerns associated with hormonal imbalances due to menopause.
