by Monica on July 2, 2009
It’s Hot! All I can think about on my runs (and immediately after) is how thirsty I am. The ecstasy of a really cold Gatorade after a long run is not lost on me…one of those little things in life that can aid in bringing on a true endorphin high. But after seeing FOOD,INC coupled with my recent quest to trim the fat, I have been looking elsewhere. I just discovered a new hydration tablet (at the REI store) that does not have sugar (or high fructose corn syrup–like Gatorade and G2). The Nuun goji berry/green tea tablet contains electrolytes and vitamins to beat the heat. I added it to my water bottle and drank it throughout my workout. I really like the light flavor. It has no carbs but can be used on the long runs along with your carb gels. Each package contains 16 tablets for $7.95 so it’s less than $.50 cents a pop for each one.
I also picked up a packet of Pink Grapefruit Luna Electrolyte Splash powder mix and added it to a water bottle before a 13 miler. Another really light and refreshing taste. It does have carbs and electrolytes but boasts a natural/organic ingredient list. My running mate who has a sensitive GI actually was able to stomach it on the run. The ingredients in Gatorade can do a number on a marginalized bowel. I promised to pick up more packets next time to share. [click to continue…]
by Jamie on June 29, 2009
The right spice combination can transform a dish from the humdrum to the sublime. What’s more, we are learning that spices possess exceptional anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory powers. Music to a runner’s body!
Penzeys, an online and catalog spice seller with a smattering of retail stores throughout the country, is the last word on quality spices. They are the real thing: invariably fresh, intense and vivid. The newest Penzeys order is cause for an impromptu celebration. The spices are a riot of color and fragrance. Each order includes a free sample, along with an epiphany—so that’s what ginger is meant to be. The spices cost far less than those drab jars of so-called spices languishing on grocery store shelves.
My newest favorites: the Middle Eastern spice combination, Zatar (terrific on couscous, sautéed corn, and broiled pita bread with olive oil) and Spanish smoked paprika (sprinkle on salmon, sauces and soup.) We burn through Penzey’s powdered ginger, Vietnamese cinnamon, double strength vanilla and southwest seasoning. Friends rave about Penzeys’ peppercorns, candied ginger, sea salt, red pepper flakes, poultry rub, hot dried chilies, chili powder, oregano and cumin.
The Penzeys’ catalog, both worldly and nerdy, is chock full of details about each spice (and some recipes.) Ordering online could be streamlined a tad, but each order is impeccably rendered.
You may never go back—-
by Monica on June 21, 2009
The true gift of Father’s Day (and actually Mother’s Day) is the household moratorium on complaining. My husband, in the occasionally cunning spirit of parenthood, seized the opportunity to enlist (coerce) our teenage children to do something he wants them to do without the grumbling. Today he took them to see FOOD, INC the new documentary from filmmaker Robert Kenner about the food we now eat. I have already seen the film and think every person out there (especially runners and parents) should take the time to digest it’s message.
A visual feast of images and plethora of information, the film takes us to where our food actually originates. It will make your stomach turn and your blood boil. It asks (and attempts to answer) the very relevant question I often ask myself in the produce section of any Whole Foods market…”Why does this good organic food cost so darn much?” (actually, it’s not even just organic vs non-organic…it’s also why does broccoli cost more than potato chips). It exposes the corporate take over of the American food chain and it’s disregard for the struggling farmer. Labor violations, obesity, E coli outbreaks are all residual topics brought to the table. Eric Schlosser (of Fast Food Nation and one of the producers of the film) and Michael Pollan (author of the Omnivore’s Dilemma and In Defense of Food) help sort and clarify the message in a series of appearances throughout the film.
Runners understand that an enlightened relationship with food can translate into strong runs and quick recovery. This movie’s revelations will leave you hungry for answers and perhaps empower you to join this food fight. At the very least it will motivate me to read my labels more carefully, shop at the farmers market as often as possible, and consume as much as we can from our own garden.
