Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Why is coconut water so good for you? And a Quinoa Recipe for the kids


While I was recently in Bali, I practised Bikram Yoga everyday and after every class, the Balinese had glasses of coconut poured from real young coconuts ready for us to drink. My first taste of coconut water made me feel a little sick, but I was unsure if it was from after the gruelling practise that completely rinsed me out from inside out. 



But I noticed everyone was drinking coconut oil everywhere I seemed to go. 

I have grown to love the taste of this water, its so pure, natural and filled with goodness.
The reason why they serve it after a sweaty Bikram class is because of its high electrolytes. Its great for hydrating the body, and the beauty to its natural and no added sugars, and no fat.
Not to be confused with coconut milk which is the fatter part of the coconut, this is the water from a young green coconut.


  • Its a nutritional gold mine
  • Heart drink
  • Full of natural electrolytes
  • Cholesterol free
  • Low in fat
  • Low in carbs
  • Boosts zinc, selenium, iodine, sulfur and manganese, ascorbic acid, B- group vitamins
  • Promotes smoother and more youthful skin
  • Can improve blood circulation
  • Great for healthy digestive system and urinary health
  • Claims it slows down ageing 
It is recommended to avoid coconut oil if you have heart disease, kidney  disease or if you are on low potassium diet. Always check with your Doctor if you have any disease or illness first.

I love coconut water and after a strong sweaty workout I feel confident I have replenished my stores. 


Super Food Quinoa for kids
serves 4


Making healthy nutritious meals for the kids can be  challenging. When little eyes tend to judge how things may look. I know your kids will love this recipe, the whole family can enjoy it. It is vegetarian, packed with protein. Remember a little cooked food is ok. Aim for 80% Raw 20 % cooked.
Children need carbs and this is packed with added  fiber. 



INGREDIENTS


1 cup quinoa - cooked 
1 cup brown rice -cooked
1 can chickpeas 
1/2 cup fresh basil
1 cup green beans
1/2 cup carrots
1 brown onion, diced 
1 Tbsp oregano
sea salt
1 Tbspn olive oil
1 Tbson pesto



My tip- Have brown rice and quinoa cooked, prior to making 
this dish a quick and easy 
meal. Great if you get in the door late, for a quick healthy meal.

METHOD

Wash  brown rice and quinoa, then  add onion, bring to the boil, simmer off.
Lightly steam vegetables. Add quinoa, rice, vegetables, chick peas  and all other ingredients to a large pan, and lightly stir fry until well mixed through. No need to over cook, just enough to warm and mix through. This recipe is quick, easy and tasty.
Is Quinoa a Seed or a Grain? It is commonly referred to as a grain, but it is actually a seed, and grain free. It is cooked and used like a grain. You can make bread from it, and use it for many recipes.



If your time poor there is  'No excuses to eat healthy.' Nicky xx








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