So We Are Stuck Inside. Let's Cook Something Delicious
Those of us who are doing our part and self isolating in attempt to plank the curve of this Covid-19 virus may be going a bit stir crazy. I think this is the perfect time, when our lives have slowed, way down, to get our butts in the kitchen. This is a fantastic opportunity to get creative, to try new dishes, flavours, and/or new ingredients. We have been given this gift of time and space to actually cook, rather than just stuff food in our faces while on the run, going about our daily lives.
Getting in the kitchen will help in so many ways.
Creating new dishes can help relieve anxiety by distracting yourself.
Eating regularly will help maintain even blood sugar levels which is essential in regulating anxiety and other mental health issues.
Now that the kiddos are at home you can get them in the kitchen and teach them the importance of cooking wholesome meals. Many of my fond memories are centred around making meals together as a family, maybe you can make some fond memories as well.
Eating wholesome foods high in nutrients, vitamins and minerals is so important in supporting your immune system, organs, tissues and cellular function.
Eating wholesome foods can be soothing and restorative.
My advice to you is to:
Make meals that are low fat, low sugar and low chemicals. Try for ingredients that are whole foods and plant based, as these foods are supportive of our immune system.
Use a combination of both lightly cooked/steamed and raw vegetables. Eating too many cooked foods can be hard on your digestive system, as many of the naturally occurring enzymes can be destroyed in the cooking process. You can actually grown your own micro-greens, see my previous post on how. This is an excellent teaching opportunity for kids.
Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, lentils or beans are a good base for dinner, pair your chosen base with a variety of vegetables. Focussing on dark leafy greens because they are probably the riches in nutrients of any food!! They are high in vitamin A and C, folic acid, magnesium and potassium. These nutrients are all essential for a strong immunity.
Have fun and experiment with different ethnicities. My favourite flavours are Mexican with cumin, garlic, and cilantro. The beans and brown rice with cabbage is a fantasticilly ( I know not a word!) healthy choice!
Share your kitchen adventures. I know I am spending more time on social media connecting with my friends and family and I love seeing what people are getting up to.
Looking forward to seeing what everyone is cooking up! Have fun, happy eating and stay healthy!!
Sarah
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