In the brain, tryptophan is converted to serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has the effect of reducing pain and decreasing appetite, and producing a sense of calm-always good for improving your mood. Complex carbohydrates stimulate the production of serotonin so consume oatmeal, brown rice and other whole grains. There is an association between low… Read More

Simple ways to create elegant dishes You can envision yourself standing at the table explaining the meal to your family or guests; dishes with the words ‘caramelized’ or ‘scented’ or ‘toasted’ in them. Lots of ‘with this or that’s’ always impress. I will help with all the adjectives and meal accoutrements and all you have… Read More

Cranberry Pear Relish: Ingredients: 8 ounces fresh cranberries 2 firm pears 1/2 lemon seeded 2 tablespoons honey 1/3 cup sugar such as Sucanat or Rapadura dash sea salt Preparation: Wash cranberries. Peel and core pears. Grind or process the cranberries and pears with the  lemon half; stir in the honey, sugar and salt. Cover and… Read More

Tangerines You all know that tangerines are rich sources of vitamin C, but did you know they contain a myriad of other antioxidants, phytonutrients, as well as soluble and insoluble fiber? All this and they are delicious and make for a very healthy snack. Besides any one in your kid’s lunchboxes or in a bowl… Read More

Your Emergency Pantry Perhaps after the devastation and heartache caused by hurricane Sandy in the east coast, you’re thinking about how prepared you are in case a natural disaster strikes where you live. You can’t assume you’ll have power, so be sure you have flashlights and batteries, candles, matches and some kind of a camp… Read More