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      This Crispy Apple Chicken Casserole Is Ultimate Comfort Food

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      This crispy apple chicken casserole is made all the better with premium apple cider and makes for a deluxe comfort meal.

      The Whitfields of Loxtonia Cider have a treasure trove of family recipes for the chilliest days. Original Loxtonia Crispy Apple Cider is the stealthy ingredient of their family favourite, braised chicken casserole. Their farm is in the mountainous Ceres region, where snow caps the mountains every winter.

      Loxtonia Crispy Apple Cider deepens the flavours of this hearty casserole. And, it’s made on the farm from ‘orchard to bottle’ with home-grown, 100% freshly pressed and naturally fermented apples.

      The Whitfield family began making premium cider from their own apple orchards in 2013 as a natural progression of their fruit farming venture.

      “Watching the entire process unfold on our farm from the blossom bud turning into an apple in our orchards, to the final product of a natural, premium apple cider, still amazes me every season,” says Ali, head of marketing and part of the family.

      All Loxtonia ciders are gluten-free, vegan-friendly and free of preservatives and artificial additives. Ready to try this crispy apple chicken casserole? Let’s dig in.

      Crispy Apple Chicken Casserole

      Prep Time 15 hours hrsCook Time 1 hour hr

      Course Main CourseCuisine Healthy

      4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs2 fennel bulbs, sliced4 shallots, sliced 4 cloves garlic, finely minced 1 large handful / bunch fresh sage leaves2 tbsp apple cider vinegar1 tbsp Dijon mustard340 ml Loxtonia Crispy Apple Cider2 green apples, sliced125 ml fresh cream ½ bunch Tuscan kale, stemmed & roughly choppedSalt and black pepper, to tasteOlive oil for cooking
      Preheat oven to 180˚C. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large Dutch oven, buffet casserole or cast iron skillet. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season with salt. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until the skin is golden brown.Flip and cook until lightly browned on the underside. Set chicken pieces aside on a tray. Add the sliced fennel to the pan with the residual chicken fat and cook until lightly golden on the edges. Remove from the pan and set aside next to the chicken. Add the sliced shallots and sage leaves. Season. Cook until the shallots soften and begin to take on some colour. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the apple cider vinegar, mustard and Loxtonia Cider. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Add the fennel and the chicken back into the pan and nestle it in the sauce. Dot the apples around the dish. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken thighs are cooked through.Transfer the chicken to a clean plate or baking tray. (You can keep the chicken warm in the oven during the next step – or crisp up the skin under the grill).Bring the braise to a gentle simmer on the stove top. Add the kale and cream. Stir until the kale is wilted and the sauce has reduced slightly. Taste for seasoning. Return the chicken to the pan for serving family style. Serve with good crusty bread for mopping up the sauce and a green side salad.

      Keyword casserole, chicken, crispy apple chicken casserole More

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      in fitness and body

      What Is The Macrobiotic Diet – And Can It Help You Lose Weight?

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      Rooted in Japanese culture, the macrobiotic diet espouses the Asian yin-yang philosophy and is all about bringing balance to your plate, and by extension, your body. It’s also endorsed by celebs like Ariana Grande, Gwyneth Paltrow and Sting. If you like whole grains and soup or are looking to try something new, this is the diet for you.

      Meet The Expert: Carla Chait is dietician and expert in macrobiotic eating

      The history of the macrobiotic diet

      The macrobiotic diet started in the 19th century. “Sagen Ishizuka, a Japanese army doctor trained in Western medicine during this time, became disillusioned with his craft when he was unable to cure himself of his own ailments using the allopathic approach to healing,” says Chait. He started experimenting with diet and postulated that the balance between potassium and sodium in the body is the foundation of health. He called for a rejection of the foundations of the Western diet (meat, sugar and dairy) and wanted a return to the traditional Japanese diet that prizes miso soup, brown rice, pickles and seaweed. “Ishizuka healed many patients with his approach to diet and health and became famous throughout Tokyo as the ‘Anti-Doctor Doctor’,” says Chait.

      So… what is the macrobiotic diet?

      You don’t need to buy the entire Japanese grocery store to get the benefits. The diet focuses on whole grains, legumes, vegetables and yes, seaweed as the principal foods, says Chait. Added to that are white-meat fish, nuts and fruits.

      What can you expect on the macrobiotic diet?

      While you’d be mistaken for thinking the diet, while being whole foods focused, is just a dolled-up vegetarian diet, you’d be wrong. Key differences include its ideological and energetic bases. The idea is that by eating the right foods, you can powerfully affect your health and well-being. Prized is food that is locally grown, less processed and options low in saturated fats.

      “People eating a Macrobiotic diet can expect increased physical stamina and mental clarity,” says Chait. “Eating whole foods gives one a ‘whole’ or expansive view of the world. Eating Macrobiotically not only changes one’s health then but also changes one’s life.”

      Will it help you lose weight?

      Since the diet prizes fibre and downplays fat content, you could very well shed kilos. “A high-fibre diet ensures that the digestive system is toned and functioning properly, while also stabilizing blood sugar,” says Chait. “The fat sources in the diet are largely mono- and polyunsaturated, which is good for heart health. Eating Macrobiotically will improve one’s overall health and ensure that energy is flowing smoothly through the body so that excess weight is discharged.”

      Who does it work best for?

      Well, since most dietary recommendations prize the upping of fruits and vegetables and whole grains, it comes as no surprise that this diet will work well for pretty much anybody. “The diet is especially helpful for those who have had a lifetime of poor food choices, leading to stagnation and disease,” says Chait. “For those, the diet is truly miraculous in restoring health and well-being.” Research backs this up. One study showed that macrobiotic diet can lower cholesterol and blood pressure, leading authors to think that it might be a great diet for people dealing with cardiovascular problems. Another study posited that it’s a diet associated with decreased cancer rates. In cancer patients, macrobiotic diet has been known anecdotally to yield results and is associated with decreased cancer risk. However, more research is needed to confirm the benefits of this diet on cancer.

      And it works for women, too. “Women consuming macrobiotic diets have modestly lower circulating oestrogen levels, suggesting a lower risk of breast cancer. This may be due in part to the high phytoestrogen content of the macrobiotic diet,” one study’s authors noted.

      Any supplementation required?

      Per one study, there’s a decrease in vitamin B12, vitamin D and calcium with people on the diet. But compared to National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, this diet outperformed in terms of being anti-inflammatory and health-giving.

      Try these two recipes from dietician Carla Chait to get in on macrobiotic eating.

      Miso soup with daikon and shiitake

      Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes mins

      Course Appetizer, Main Course, SoupCuisine Japanese

      4 dried shiitake mushrooms1 tsp dried wakame leavesWater for the soup1.5 cups halved and sliced daikon radish1 tbsp barley misohandful chopped spring onion for garnish
      Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in a bowl of water for 10 minutes to soften, remove the stems, and slice thinly.Soak the dried wakame leaves in a little water for 5 minutes to reconstitute and slice the leaves into small pieces.Place the sliced mushroom, wakame pieces, and the sliced daikon radish into a pot and add 3 cups of water.Bring to a boil and cook, covered, for 5 minutes.Purée the miso paste in a bowl with a little of the soup broth and then return the miso purée to the soup, stirring gently.Simmer, uncovered, for a further 3 minutes.Garnish each bowl of soup with chopped spring onion.

      Keyword miso soup, soup

      Fried rice with tofu and vegetables

      Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes mins

      Course Main CourseCuisine Chinese, Healthy, Japanese

      1 tbsp sesame oil½ cup diced onion½ cup sliced celery½ cup quartered and sliced carrots1 cup crumbled tofu2 cups cooked brown rice1 tbsp water1 tbsp soya saucechopped parsley for garnish
      Heat the oil in a frying pan.Add the onion, celery, and carrot and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in the crumbled tofu.Layer the rice over the vegetable and tofu mixture and pour the water down the side of the pan.Cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes.Stir in the soy sauce and cook for a further 2 minutes.Garnish each serving of fried rice with chopped parsley.

      Keyword fried rice, healthy fried rice More

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      in fitness and body

      These Are The 20 Best Healthy Snacks For Weight Loss

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      If you’ve ever snacked your way through a jar of peanut butter in a day, you’re probably pretty damn convinced that snacking is your worst enemy when it comes to weight loss. But yeah, no. Snacks (you know, the healthy, well-portioned kind) can help ensure you don’t get so damn hungry you just say “screw it!” and give up on your whole diet. Still, whipping up your own perfectly portioned snack is way easier said than done. (Honestly, who knew a serving of peanut butter was only two measly tablespoons?!) Make things a whole lot easier on yourself and whip up these nutritionist-approved best healthy snacks for weight-loss snacks instead.

      1. Trail mix

      “My ideal healthy snack combines a little of each of the macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates and fats,” says dietician Kath Younger. “I love to rely on the combination of nuts and fruits, either fresh fruit or dried fruit for a longer shelf life. A small handful of trail mix is one of my favourite snacks that won’t spoil my appetite for my next meal.”

      Make it: Combine equal parts unsweetened dried fruit and unsalted roasted nuts (sorry, no M&Ms this time). Reach for a quarter cup of the mixture when you need a boost.

      Per serving: 682 kilojoules, 9 g fat (1 g saturated), 19 g carbs, 13 g sugar, 3 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 5 g protein.

      The Master Trail Mix

      This mix, with pumpkin seeds and cranberries, will keep you going.

      On The Go Trail Mix

      Cashews, cherries and chocolate drops add sweetness to this nourishing mix.

      Woolworths Trail Mix

      This nut-based trail mix delivers nutrients and trace minerals.

      2. Yoghurt with nuts and berries

      Younger adds a sprinkle of nuts to protein-rich fat-free yoghurt for some satiating healthy fats. A small handful of berries or another chopped fruit will add texture and sweetness, plus filling fibre. It might sound basic, but it’s a classic snack for a reason.

      Make it: Combine 1/2 cup Greek yoghurt, 2 tablespoons chopped nuts, and 1/2 cup berries in a bowl.

      Per serving: 858 kilojoules, 11 g fat (0 g saturated), 13 g carbs, 7 g sugar, 43 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 16 g protein.

      3. Sliced tomato with a sprinkle of feta and olive oil

      This savoury dish will make your taste buds happy. Tomatoes pack umami flavour, while feta adds tang and a little bit of salt.

      Make it: Slice 1 medium tomato (or slice up 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes), and top with 28g feta and 1 teaspoon olive oil.

      Per serving: 556 kilojoules, 11 g fat (5 g saturated), 5 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 265 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 5 g protein.

      4. Shrimp and cocktail sauce

      Shrimp are a great source of lean protein, and it’s easy to find them pre-cooked in any supermarket. (Plus, it makes snack time feel way fancier!)

      Make it: Combine eight cooked, peeled, deveined shrimp with 1/4 cup cocktail sauce for dipping.

      Per serving: 527 kilojoules, 1 g fat (5 g saturated), 16 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 432 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 14 g protein.

      5. Baby carrots with hummus

      Carrots and hummus are great snacks as is, but adding a sprinkle of seasoning will make your taste buds extra happy.

      Make it: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of seasoning on top of 1/4 cup of regular hummus. Eat with 1 cup of baby carrots.

      Per serving: 987 kilojoules, 12 g fat (5 g saturated), 27 g carbs, 12 g sugar, 416 mg sodium, 10 g fibre, 6 g protein.

      6. ‘Banana split’

      Dietician Robin Plotkin suggests a healthy version of the classic dessert by halving a banana, then topping it with yoghurt and nuts. It’s a delicious combo of carbs, protein, and healthy fat—more importantly, it’s super fun to eat.

      Make it: Slice a small banana in half vertically. Top the open banana face with 1/4 cup non-fat Greek yoghurt and 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts.

      Per serving: 1013 kilojoules, 10 g fat (1 g saturated), 33 g carbs, 18 g sugar, 23 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 10 g protein.

      7. Egg on toast

      This healthy snack is great for breakfast lovers—it’s as satisfying as a meal, but the slightly smaller portion size won’t weigh you down. Plotkin recommends using hard-boiled eggs for convenience, which you can make ahead or buy. If you have access to a stove, you can also opt for a scrambled or fried egg.

      Make it: Toast a slice of whole-grain toast. Top with one egg, cooked to your preference.

      Per serving: 761 kilojoules, 6 g fat (2 g saturated), 20 g carbs, 4 g sugar, 221 mg sodium, 3 g fibre, 11 g protein.

      8. Chocolate milk

      This might seem like just something for kids, but it legit is a pretty great snack—especially for replenishing post-workout thanks to the simple carbs from the chocolate and the milk’s lactose.

      Make it: Stir 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup into 1 cup 2 per cent milk.

      Per serving: 728 kilojoules, 5 g fat (3 g saturated), 25 g carbs, 21 g sugar, 134 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 8 g protein.

      9. White beans and olive tapenade

      “Lately, I’ve been obsessed with Kalamata olive tapenade,” says dietician Kendra Tolbert. “It’s a great combo of fibre, fat, protein and resistant starch that’ll keep you full and satisfied.” Tolbert eats it by the spoonful, but you can also scoop it up with a few whole-grain pita chips or cucumber slices.

      Make it: Mix 1 teaspoon tapenade with 1/2 cup canned white beans (drained and rinsed).

      Per serving: 728 kilojoules, 4 g fat (0 g saturated), 20 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 121 mg sodium, 6 g fibre, 6 g protein.

      10. Dates and pistachios

      “It’s the usual fruit and nuts combo, but a little more sophisticated,” says Tolbert. Dates have a honey-like sweetness, which combines with the strong flavour of pistachios into a snack that feels like dessert.

      Make it: Combine 2 pitted dates with 2 tablespoons pistachios.

      Per serving: 891 kilojoules, 7 g fat (1 g saturated), 40 g carbs, 33 g sugar, 35 mg sodium, 5 g fibre, 4 g protein.

      11. Edamame with sea salt

      Plotkin loves sprinkling edamame, in its shell or out, with a bit of sea salt. In addition to plant-based protein, you get fibre and a good dose of potassium.

      Make it: Drizzle 1/2 cup shelled edamame with 1 teaspoon olive oil and a pinch of sea salt.

      Per serving: 586 kilojoules, 8 g fat (1 g saturated), 8 g carbs, 2 g sugar, 481 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 8 g protein.

      12. PB-chocolate apple ‘nachos’

      This sounds crazy-indulgent, but it’s actually a well-balanced snack, says Plotkin. You’ll get protein and lots of fibre, which will help slow the digestion of the little bit of added sugar from dark chocolate (preventing a mid-afternoon crash).

      Make it: Thinly slice a medium apple, then drizzle them with 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter and 15g melted dark chocolate.

      Per serving: 1058 kilojoules, 13 g fat (4 g saturated), 35 g carbs, 25 g sugar, 74 mg sodium, 7 g fibre, 4 g protein.

      Buttanutt Peanut Butter

      This creamy nothing-but-nuts mix smooths over everything from oats to crackers.

      Simple Truth Smooth Peanut Butter

      This roasted peanut butter has no sugar added.

      Faithful To Nature Crunchy Peanut Butter

      This crunchy peanut butter adds texture, taste & plant-based nutrients to your meals.

      13. Microwave egg taco

      Get creative with your microwave and make a tasty snack with enough protein to carry you to your next meal.

      Make it: “Crack one egg into a microwave-safe mug and cook for 90 seconds,” says Plotkin. Immediately stir in 15g shredded cheddar, then serve inside a small whole-wheat tortilla.

      Per serving: 761 kilojoules, 10 g fat (5 g saturated), 11 g carbs, 1 g sugar, 360 mg sodium, 3 g fibre, 11 g protein.

      14. Roasted chickpeas

      “If you’re craving something salty and crunchy, roasted beans are a much better option than chips thanks to their combo of protein and fibre, says dietician Jessica Levinson.

      Make it: Rinse and drain a can of chickpeas, then toss them with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and whatever spice you want. Roast at 400° F for 30 minutes. Let cool slightly, then eat. One batch makes three servings.

      Per serving: 669 kilojoules, 8 g fat (1 g saturated), 17 g carbs, 2 g sugar, 292 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 5 g protein.

      15. Almond butter crackers

      “Peanut butter crackers serve as a quick option for people on the run, but the pre-packaged snack can have many hidden ingredients and kilojoules,” says dietician Shamera Robinson. DIY it instead.

      Make it: Spread 1 tablespoon almond butter (or any nut or seed butter) between 28g whole grain crackers.

      Per serving: 974 kilojoules, 12 g fat (2 g saturated), 23 g carbs, 2 g sugar, 227 mg sodium, 5 g fibre, 8 g protein.

      16. Homemade popcorn

      “Popcorn is a great snack to fill up on,” says Robinson, thanks to all the fibre. And you don’t have to stick with the plain stuff, either. “Try sprinkling garlic powder and dried rosemary (or Italian seasoning) for extra flavour,” suggests Robinson.

      Make it: Pop 3 tablespoons of popcorn kernels in 1/2 Tbsp canola oil in a large saucepan on the stove. Top with your favourite herbs or spices.

      Per serving: 674 kilojoules, 6 g fat (1 g saturated), 28 g carbs, 0 g sugar, 15 mg sodium, 5 g fibre, 4 g protein.

      17. DIY tzatziki dip with veggies

      Greek yoghurt is a great high-protein snack that is usually sweet. However, you can easily turn that into a savoury snack by making tzatziki.

      Make it: Add grated cucumber, salt, pepper, crushed garlic and lemon juice to 1/2 cup low-fat Greek yoghurt. Use 1 cup carrot or cucumber sticks for dipping.

      Per serving: 594 kilojoules, 3 g fat (1 g saturated), 18 g carbs, 9 g sugar, 395 mg sodium, 4 g fibre, 9 g protein.

      18. Cottage cheese with almonds and honey

      “This creamy-crunchy-sweet combo is second to none,” says Robinson. The cottage cheese is rich in protein, while almonds add crunch and healthy fats. And a hint of honey makes things sweet without going overboard on added sugar.

      Make it: Top 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese with 2 tablespoons slivered almonds and 1 teaspoon honey.

      Per serving: 820 kilojoules, 10 g fat (2 g saturated), 12 g carbs, 10 g sugar, 363 mg sodium, 2 g fibre, 17 g protein.

      19. Biltong with raisins

      “The ideal snack is portable and packed with satisfying lean protein,” says dietician Nicole Rodriguez. Biltong fits the bill, and most brands pack a good amount of protein for less kilojoules. Look for lower salt varieties. Pair with raisins for some energising carbs and filling fibre.

      Make it: Combine 28g biltong with 2 tablespoons raisins.

      Per serving: 615 kilojoules, 1 g fat (1 g saturated), 19 g carbs, 3 g sugar, 390 mg sodium, 1 g fibre, 15 g protein.

      20. Pear and stringy cheese

      If you love fancy cheese plates for their combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavours, you’ll love this less-fussy snack. Pears have natural sugar and lots of fibre, while stringy cheese (you can get it at Woolies) is an easy way to get some satiating fat and protein in on the go.

      Make it: Slice one medium pear. Eat with one low-fat stringy cheese.

      Per serving: 761 kilojoules, 6 g fat (4 g saturated), 27 g carbs, 17 g sugar, 172 mg sodium, 6 g fibre, 8 g protein.

      This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com More

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      Um, People On TikTok Are Eating The Peels Of Fruit & Veggies – And They’re So Good

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      Step one of eating the mango: peel the fruit and throw the peel away, right? Apparently, wrong! TikTokkers the world over are showing how they prepare the peels of fruits and vegetables to maximise their nutrient intake, and the science backs them up.

      While there may be reasons to peel your apples, pears, carrots or potatoes – such as to get rid of pesticide residue for example – the nutritional benefits of leaving the skin on could outweigh the reasons for eating them with skin off.

      In some countries, some fruits and veggies are routinely eaten with the peel on, like lemons, oranges, mangos and even bananas. And the benefits? Through the roof.

      Peels increase your vitamin and mineral intake

      The peels of fruit and vegetables like apples and potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A and C, calcium and potassium. While the specific nutritional content of the peel varies depending on the particular fruit or veg you’re eating, in general, if you eat the unpeeled version, you’re getting more goodness into your system. For example, the US Department of Agriculture says that a raw apple with its skin on contains up to 322% more vitamin K, 142% more vitamin A, 115% more vitamin C, 20% more calcium, and up to 19% more potassium than its peeled version. It also found that a cooked potato with its skin still on has up to 175% more vitamin C, 115% more potassium, 111% more folate, and 110% more magnesium and phosphorus than a peeled one.  

      READ MORE: Finally, A Medical Aid Is Offering DNA Tests To All Members

      READ MORE: All The Vegan Kits, Meals And Guides To Help You Go Vegan

      Peels are packed with fibre

      Fruit and veg peels are an excellent source of insoluble fibre, which is crucial for ensuring gut health and preventing things like constipation. Unlike soluble fibre which dissolves in water, insoluble fibre adds physical bulk which helps to speed up the removal of waste from your gut.  This bulk also makes you feel fuller for longer, which can help with weight loss goals if you’re restricting your calories and exercising portion control. Again, the exact fibre amount you’re getting depends on the particular item you eat, but the peels of fruits like guava and tomatoes and vegetables like aubergines are especially high in insoluble fibre.

      They contain antioxidants

      Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals in your body, which when found in high levels can cause oxidative stress on the body and increase your risk of developing diabetes, heart disease and cancer, as well as neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Antioxidants counter the effects of these free radicals, thereby lowering your risk of developing these health problems. But here’s the thing: in many fruits and vegetables, these antioxidants tend to be concentrated in the outer layer – so peeling them means you’re missing out.

      @spicymoustache Next time you grow or buy organic onions, don’t throw away the skins but use them to make this zero waste condiment which is absolutely delicious! tip – when you use the oven to cook something, use the left over heat (oven off) to dry your onion and garlic skins. Just simply keep the door shut and let them dry. ONION & GARLIC PEEL POWDER 🧅🧄 •onion peel •garlic peel •salt •pepper •paprika powder •chilly powder •optional flavours example: Mediterranean herbs, masala mix, chives & dill . STEP BY STEP: 🥣 – wash your peels together or separately depending on the quantity you have if you want 2 different powders. – tap them dry and place on a baking tray – bake at 160* for about 5 min keep an eye on it and make sure they nice and crispy when ready (turn off the oven and leave the door shut until dry) – blend them until you have a fine powder. – add salt , pepper , paprika and chilly powder for a great fries potato seasoning or get creative using different mixed Mediterranean herbs or a masala mix . – the quantity depends on how much peels you have so taste the mix first to get the best result #fyp #foryoupage #contentcreator #zerowaste #onion #garlic #zerowastetips #zerowastehacks #zerowasteliving #zerowastetiktok #easyrecipe #veggiescraps #ecofriendly ♬ Bach unaccompanied cello suite “Prelude” – Jianteng

      They can be medicinal

      Some peels that we’d normally consider inedible in their whole form have exceptional health benefits. Citrus peels like those of oranges, lemons and grapefruit contain large amounts of flavonoids, which have many medicinal benefits such as being anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antiviral. To make them more pleasant to eat you could grate them and use them as zest, or cut them into strips and add them to salads or smoothies, or even turn them into treats like orange marmalade or lemon curd. You can also benefit from using them on your skin too, thanks to their antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. When applied topically – such as ground up into a paste and used as a face mask – they can improve pigmentation, inflammation and even increase the skin’s elasticity to reduce signs of ageing.  

      READ MORE: Are Air Fryers Actually Healthy Or Am I Kidding Myself?

      It’s more convenient

      We get it. We’re busy, and so are you. Saving time on meal prep could mean…just leaving the peel on! Think: shorter times to prepare school lunches or dinners – and the skin on means you’ll preserve the natural moisture in them too.

      In many cases, such as with avocadoes or pineapple, the skin is simply too rough or prickly to eat. While in other cases, people may peel items in order to get rid of the residue of pesticides that could be on them. However, it’s worth considering that peeling isn’t completely fool-proof, so these pesticides may still reach inside the fruit. Because of this, it’s more worthwhile to try and source organic food that limits or even cuts out the use of harmful chemicals for pest control. Beyond this, you can also remove much of the pesticide residue by washing – so invest in a good scrubbing brush to wash them thoroughly before eating them – peel on of course! More

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      This Dark Chocolate & Date Fudge Is The Perfect Healthy Treat

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      This decadent twist on an old classic is bound to do the trick. This will be your go-to easy fudge recipe for anything from a date night or picnic with friends to a healthy treat for when the cravings hit.

      READ MORE: This Simple Freezer-Friendly Pulled Pork Tortilla Recipe Is Perfect For Meal Prep

      Dark Chocolate And Date Fudge Recipe

      This decadent, yet healthy dessert only has 4 grams of sugar and is the perfect treat for any occasion.

      Prep Time 15 minsCook Time 0 mins

      Course DessertCuisine American

      Servings 64 servingsCalories 51 kcal

      1 Baking pan1 Food processor
      Non-stick cooking spray1 cup pitted Medjool dates1 tsp pure vanilla extract1/4 tsp kosher salt1 3/4 cup 70 percent dark chocolate, melted1/3 cup hazelnuts, toasted, skinned, and very roughly chopped1/4 tsp flaky salt
      Lightly spray a 20x20cm baking pan. Line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides; spray paper.Soak dates in boiling water for 10 min; reserve ½ cup liquid, drain, and transfer to a food processor along with vanilla extract and kosher salt.Add ¼ cup reserved liquid and puree, scraping down the sides and adding additional reserved liquid as necessary to blend, until smooth. Add chocolate and puree until smooth.Transfer mixture to the prepared pan, top with hazelnuts and ¼ tsp flaky salt. Refrigerate until set, at least 2 hours. Cut into 2.5cm squares. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

      Keyword chocolate, healthy

      *This article was originally published on Women’s Health US More

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      This Beetroot Chocolate Cake Is So Moist It Doesn’t Even Need Icing

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      Looking for a healthy food take on chocolate cake? This light chocolate cake is gorgeous and moist as is, with no need for sugary ganache or icing.
      Chocolate cake can be deadly for your kilojoule count, since it’s packed with sugar, refined flour and oil. But you can easily substitute for a higher fibre flour, like oat or chickpea flour, that doesn’t compromise on texture and flavour. Also, try substituting sugar for honey or another sugar-free alternative for a sweet, decadent treat that won’t break the kilojoule bank.
      READ MORE: Are Air Fryers Actually Healthy Or Am I Kidding Myself?
      What You Need

      250g cooked beetroot
      200g butter
      200g 70% dark chocolate
      4 tbsp hot espresso
      135g wholewheat flour
      1 tsp baking powder
      3 tbsp cocoa
      5 free-range eggs, separated
      150g castor sugar or sugar replacement

      READ MORE: 5 Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes When They Start New Year’s Resolution Diets
      Method

      Preheat the oven to 180°C.
      Grease a 20cm nonstick cake tin with a little Spray and Cook and line the bottom of the tin with baking paper.
      Purée the beetroot in a food processor.
      Heat the butter and chocolate in a microwave for 10 seconds at a time, or until just melted, then pour in the hot coffee and leave to cool slightly.
      Sift the flour, baking powder and cocoa in a bowl and set aside.
      Separate the eggs, then whisk the yolks in a bowl until frothy.
      Stir the eggs into the chocolate and butter mixture and fold in the beetroot.
      Whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then fold in the sugar.
      Fold the sugar and egg whites into the chocolate mixture, then fold in the flour and cocoa mixture.
      Pour the batter into the tin and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean.

      SERVES 8. Per 158g serving: 2 215kJ, 34g fat (20g sat), 48g carbs, 140mg sodium, 4g fibre, 9g protein
      READ MORE: Exactly How To Make The Perfect Pizza On The Braai More

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      28 Easy Food Swaps That’ll Help You Lose Weight

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      There’s a simple hack that can boost your weight loss, leave you feeling fuller for longer and have you feeling more regular. It’s called fibre and this often-overlooked food can deliver major benefits to your body. Not only does it keep your system nice and clean, fibre has a genius move in its arsenal: the ability to keep you feeling fuller for longer, boosting satiety. That feeling of fullness is a major key in weight loss, prompting you to eat less instead of more. These genius food swaps find the high-fibre substitutes of other foods, which are often healthier, too.
      Why you need to switch up your food
      We all know our bodies need calcium for bones, vitamin C to fend off colds and chocolate to save relationships. But when it comes to losing weight, the nutritional information is a little more confusing. The mighty trilogy of nutrients – protein, carbohydrates and fat – garners most of the food industry’s attention, but it’s becoming increasingly clear that fibre needs to be the fourth leg of the dietary table.
      Study after study shows that not only does fibre help lower your risk of cancer, heart attack and high blood pressure, it also keeps you full and helps you decrease the total amount of kilojoules you consume every day. Trouble is, most of us think that getting the recommended 30g of fibre a day means eating cereal that tastes like the box it comes in. But that isn’t the case. You can sneak fibre into your diet anywhere…
      Food Swaps At Breakfast
      1. Spice up your eggs: A third of a cup of chopped onion and one clove of garlic will add one gram of fibre to scrambled eggs.
      2. Drop a whole orange into the blender to flavour your morning smoothie. One peeled orange has nearly three grams more fibre than even the pulpiest orange juice.
      3. Make your own fruit juice. Blend peeled, sliced and cored or pitted fresh fruit with a little cold water in a food processor. Drink immediately for the best nutritional value. A 250ml glass has more than one gram of fibre.
      4. Cook a bowl of oat bran instead of oats; it has nearly two grams more fibre. Add even more flavour and fibre by stirring in a quarter of a cup of raisins or chopped dates before popping it into the microwave.
      5. Sprinkle ground flaxseeds over your favourite cold cereal or stir a few spoonfuls into a cup of yoghurt. Two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds deliver almost an extra two grams of fibre.
      6. Grab an Asian pear. Similar in taste to other pears, the red-coloured Asian variety has an apple-like crispness and shape and, at four grams a pear, it delivers significantly more fibre.
      7. Buy spreadable fibre, like peanut butter, for your wholewheat toast. Two level tablespoons add three grams of fibre, along with a healthy dose of heart-protecting fats and nutrients like vitamin E.
      8. Make a smoothie using fruit or oats, as these contain at least two grams more fibre than blends that aren’t fruit-based or don’t include oats.
      READ MORE: 5 Ways To Measure Healthy Portion Sizes Without A Scale
      At lunch
      9. Try rye bread if you don’t like wholewheat for your sandwich. One slice has almost two grams of fibre – twice the amount found in white bread.
      10. Opt for quinoa instead of white rice and you’ll get six times more fibre per serving. Mixing in half a cup of lentils with the quinoa will add a nutty flavour, another six grams of fibre and a boost of folate and manganese.
      11. Stow a tin of microwavable soup in your desk for when you need to work through lunch. Woolworths’ Chunky Vegetable Soup packs as much as five grams of fibre per 400g portion.
      12. Shower your pasta with origanum or basil. A teaspoon of either chopped herb adds one gram of fibre. Order it with mushrooms and you’ll get an extra gram.
      13. Build your burger with a sesame-seed roll instead of the plain variety. Sesame seeds add half a gram of fibre per roll.
      14. Order your boerie roll with tomato-and-onion relish Every quarter-cup of the relish you pile on adds up to two grams of fibre to your meal, and having a wholewheat roll tops that up with another three grams.
      READ MORE: 3 Meal Prep Hacks That Will Make It Way Easier To Eat Healthily
      In the afternoon
      15. Drink chocolate milk, not plain milk. The combination of chocolate and the compounds needed to keep it suspended in the milk provides a gram of fibre in every 250ml serving.
      16. Pop a pack of reduced-oil popcorn instead of popping open a bag of potato chips. There are eight grams of fibre in every bag of popcorn.
      17. Enjoy a tomato juice and its two grams of fibre per 200ml tin. Go with the plain juice and avoid the cocktail version, which is high in sodium from the added salt and Worcester sauce.
      18. Graze on trail mix instead of a granola bar. Most granola bars have only one gram of fibre, while trail mix with dried fruit has nearly three grams.
      READ MORE: ‘Keto Crotch’ Might Be A Surprising Side Effect Of A Low-Carb Diet
      At dinner
      19. Toss half a cup of chickpeas into a pot of your favourite soup. They’ll absorb the flavour of the soup and tack six grams of fibre onto your bottom line.
      20. Swap a sweet potato for your standard spud. Sweet potatoes have two grams more fibre per tuber than the typical variety. Not a fan? At least eat the skin of the regular potato – that alone contains one gram of fibre.
      21. Go wild when you make rice. Cup for cup, wild rice has three times more fibre than white.
      22. Add some green to your red sauce. Doctor your favourite pasta sauce with half a cup of chopped spinach. The spinach will take on the flavour of the sauce and pad your fibre count by more than two grams.
      23. Cook wholewheat or spinach pasta instead of the usual semolina kind. A cup of either contains five grams of fibre.
      24. Cook broccoli, cauliflower and carrots and you’ll take in three to five grams of fibre per serving – nearly twice what you’ll get out of them if you eat them raw, as heat makes fibre more available.
      25. Add beans to give your bolognese a fibre boost. Substitute one part chopped, cooked beans for one part lean-beef mince. Cook both together to allow the beans to absorb the juices and seasoning. For every 100g of cooked beans, you get seven grams of fibre.
      READ MORE: Calories Vs Nutrients: What You Need To Know About Losing Weight
      For dessert
      26. Say nuts to chocolate bars. Bars with nuts, like Cadbury’s Whole Nut chocolate bar and Lunch Bars, have up to two grams of fibre – almost twice the fibre content of bars without nuts.
      27. Top a bowl of ice cream with sliced fresh berries in lieu of a chocolate topping. Half a cup of raspberries provides four grams of fibre; strawberries and blueberries pack half that amount.
      28. Try a slice of apple tart or a bowl of fresh fruit salad and you’ll add at least an extra three to five grams of fibre. Cake doesn’t have nearly as much. More

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      5 Ways To Measure Healthy Portion Sizes Without A Scale

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      The Association for Dietetics (ADSA)  in South Africa held a Twitter Talk on #HealthyNutrition4All, which highlighted how South Africans are becoming one of the most obese populations in the world! Some of that is attributed to unhealthy lifestyle habits, but a hefty portion can contribute a lot to the statistic. Here, dietitians, The Heart & Stroke Foundation SA, FoodBank SA, Soil For Life and the Department of Health share tips on measuring your meal’s healthy portion sizes – without a scale.
      Use The Plate Model
      The Heart Foundation recommends using a plate to estimate how much starch, meat and vegetables you should eat. Half your plate should be veggies, a quarter starch and the rest protein.
      READ MORE: 5 Portion Control Tips You’ve Probably Never Heard Before
      Use Your Hands
      Dietician Maryke Gallagher advises that you should measure food with your fist. One portion of fruit should be the size of your fist. Also use your palm to measure how much protein, etc. you should be eating. A palm is the size estimate of your protein portion, your fist is the size of a starch portion and your full hand (or more) is the size of a veg portion.
      Know When You’re Full
      Dietician, Karlien Duvenhage, believes it’s important to be in tune with your body and start learning when you are hungry or full.
      READ MORE: What Really Happens To Your Body (And Brain) On A Detox Diet?
      Go Mini
      The Heart Foundation suggests you eat out of a small bowl, with smaller utensils and cups to make the meal appear ‘fuller’. Use a smaller bowl for rice and noodle dishes instead of a giant one; try eating your regular meals from side plates instead of full-size plates. This tricks your brain into thinking you’re eating a bigger meal and also makes you feel more satisfied with what you’ve eaten if it looks like a large portion of food, when really it’s a healthy portion.
      Your Portion Size Go-To Guide
      Meat should be the size of a deck of cards; carbohydrate portions (rice, bread, noodles and spaghetti) the size of a tennis ball; fat (bacon rind, oil, mayonnaise), the size your thumb; and veg is a free for all, according to dietician Jade Seeliger.
      READ MORE: Here’s Exactly How To Start Working Out Again, After A Winter Hibernating More