#fruit is good for you but it should be in combination with variety from the other food groups

[acaaciia]

bleach

relationship: Gekko x gen!reader || Mateo x gen!reader

listed tags: fluff, friends to lovers (?), reader being a good nuera/yerno, oneshot

trigger warnings: none

synopsis: Bleaching some hair gets a little heated. 

You and Mateo have known each other since before you knew how to write your own name. You were there when you each first scratched your knees attempting to learn how to ride a skateboard, down to when the first light had occurred.

Needless to say, the two of you have been through the thick of it, and when Mateo asked for you to come over and help him with a new look, well, you couldn’t resist the offer.

It didn’t even take a second after you knocked on the door, for it to fling open, revealing Mateo with a giant grin. Wingman stood to his right, peaking over the side of his leg.  

“Por fin! (1) I knew you’d pull through.” He said, taking one of the bags from your hands and handing it over to his companion.

You grinned in return, “Of course I did, I couldn't let you damage your hair alone.”, You joked as you reached down to pet the little creature, “Now come on, let’s get this over with before your mom kills both of us.”

Stepping into the small home you immediately greet the older woman who was busy cutting up a variety of fruits, “Hola Señora, ¿cómo está hoy?”(2)

“Aye, bien mijita/mijito, ¿cómo está su mamá?” (3) Mateo 's mother looked up from where she stood in the kitchen, “Todavía está tomando ese té que lo mande?”,(4) she whipped her hands on her apron, walking around the small island to greet you with a hug.

You laughed, shaking your head as the two of you parted, “Lo termino, pero eya empenso a tomar ajo y curcuma.” (5) you said, turning to Mateo, making a sour face at the thought of the combination. “She even started putting it in my licuados.” (6)

This sparked up a whole conversation between you and Mateo’s mother, as she went over the multitudes of things your mom should start eating to improve her health. It didn’t last long before Mateo came in to save the day from his mothers ranting, “Perdoname mami,(7) but we got something super important to do.” He insisted, nudging you towards the hallway that led to his room.

The older woman rolled her eyes at her son and waved the two of you off, “Fine, fine, pero dejan la puerta abierta.” (8) She half joked, returning to her previous task.

Mateo could feel his ears heaten up at the implications and groaned out a small ‘aye ama’(9). You chuckled at his embarrassment and shot the woman a thumbs up as you let your friend lead you further into his house.

Entering Mateo’s room, you immediately made yourself at home pushing away the random junk he had laying around to make room for your snacks and bleaching materials. You set up your makeshift salon station, passing a chip or two to the quartet of creatures that watched you with interest, mainly interested in the snacks you had. As you finished setting up, you threw a curious glance to Mateo who was spinning himself around with his desk chair, ‘patiently’ waiting for you to finish.

“You ready for this?” You questioned, slipping on a pair of latex gloves before making your way around the man, a bowl filled with a mixture of bleach and developer in hand. He stopped his spinning, his eyes met yours as he looked at your reflection in the mirror. He grinned and gave you a nod of approval, “Show me whatcha got.”

“Just let me know if it starts to burn,” you warned.

Taking the brush into your hand, you started on the back of his head, trying to angle your strokes perfectly so as to not get any of the bleach onto his skin. This process took a while and continued till you finally reached the front of his head.

You were so close, he thought, your legs straddled his own as you leaned in closer for better precision around his hairline. Mateo could feel his heart pounding rapidly in his chest, his hands twitched as they tensed up to his side. Of course, he was aware of the fact that he had a thing for you, he always did. He never acted on it directly though, but with you so close he- “Quedate quieto.” (10) You practically whispered as you placed one of your gloved hands under his chin, tilting his head up for a better angle.

Mateo’s face burned as you cradled his head, he’s never gotten such an up-close view of you before. He swore he could die a happy man with a view like this. He watched as your eyebrows scrunched and contorted with a look of concentration. The way your lips pursed ever so slightly as you meticulously painted his hair with bleach, he had half a mind to take the brush from you and pull you down for a kiss himself.

“And I think that should be it.” You stated as you finished applying the last of the bleach to Mateo’s hair. It was only then, as you pulled back slightly to inspect your work, did you realize the position you had placed yourself in. Your breath hitched as your eyes met Mateos' own, your hand still hovering gently under his chin.  

You didn’t know what came over you, maybe it was the fact that you could feel the warmth of his body under your skin that made your head feel light. Maybe you simply had breathed in too much of the bleach and now it was messing with your head. Whatever the cause you couldn’t help yourself when you leaned down and captured his partially chapped lips for a kiss.

Mateo was stunned by your action but quickly recovered and reciprocated the kiss. His hands grazed over the top of your body gently, dipping between every curve and crevice trying to memorize every detail into the depths of his brain. He shifted you in closer, one of his hands making its way to your thigh to hold you in place, while the other came around to grip your waist.

The two of you lost track of time in the little universe you created where only the two of you existed. Neither of you could tell when Mateo had finally brought you down to sit comfortably in his lap, or when you had lost the bowl of bleach as or when your other hand wrapped around his neck, but the two of you weren’t in the mood to care.

Key:

1. Finally 2. (formal greeting to an older woman) Hello Ma’am, how are you? 3. mijita/mijito: a term of endearment typically from an older person to a younger person, used in a similar context as sweetie. Not to be used in a romantic sense/relationship. "Sweetie, how is your mom?" = "Mijita, how is your mom?" 4. Is she still drinking the tea I sent her? 5. She finished it, but has started to drink ginger and turmeric instead. 6. (a shake/smoothie) 7. Forgive me, mom. /Excuse me, mom./ I’m sorry, mom. 8. But, leave the door open. 9. Mom, please. (a whiney, complained/embarrassed way of saying it) 10. Stay still.

[amostimprobabledream]

forbidden fruit is the sweetest (Gin Ichimaru x Reader)

Wrote this little AU smutfic because there isn't enough of Gin in general and he should be in more porn. Also available on Ao3!: https://archiveofourown.org/works/53897803 Your nails tap against the wineglass on the table. You haven't touched much of it because the taste is acidic, sour. You're not sure if it's a bad bottle or if that's just how this brand tastes - you're not much of a wine drinker, but at least sipping from it (or pretending to) gives you something to do between awkward silences. To be honest, this entire evening is well out of your comfort zone. You don't know what you were thinking letting Rangiku talk you into this - one day she just plopped herself down in the seat across from you, her chest heaving. "We really need to get you out there." she declared in final tones, like she was continuing a conversation you'd just been having. "It's not good to mope around after some guy."

It’s pretty ironic, really, since no doubt Rangiku had done plenty of moping over the same person you were. But it wasn't like you could tell her that - even if nothing official had been confirmed, you weren't stupid, you knew that Gin and Rangiku had a long, complicated history that an outsider couldn't possibly hope to understand. And how you were supposed to compete with a woman like Rangiku Matsumoto - even if you wanted to? So here you are, at a speed dating thing, sitting here in the vain hope that you might find some guy that might make you forget about Gin Ichimaru and the fact that, despite your better judgement, you were in love with him.

"So, um…" the fifth guy opposite you stumbles through his line of questioning, and you can't even remember his name. All the men you've spoken to so far tonight talk like they were given a script they didn't bother to learn properly - the same questions, same responses and the whole time you want to scream. You've even started just making things up to just try and inject a little variety into your responses, because why not? “Where are you from?”

Oh, riveting question. It’s not like I haven’t been asked that four times tonight.

You know you’re being judgmental, so that’s a winning combination, judgmental and unattractive, but you tried going into this with an open mind and despite your expectations being low, you still find yourself feeling disappointed. How can so many different people all talk the same? It doesn’t help none of them are that attractive, either.

You wonder if you can overcome cost sunk fallacy and just get up and leave – just walk out of here and leave the shitty wine and overly loud music and interminably dull conversation behind. Sure, you’ll go home, curl up on your futon and feel like a failure, but at least you’ll be at home, in your futon, and not here.

The conversation peters out, namely because the responses to such inane questions can only be milked for so much prattling smalltalk before it dwindles into awkwardly nodding at each other. You play with your phone, wondering if it’s normal to feel so desperately ill at ease you want to rip your own skin off. Probably not, but you’re sure you can’t be totally alone in that regard. When it’s time for the men to get up and move seats, you don’t even bother hiding the relief on your face. After all, no doubt he was as keen to get away from you as you were him.

That’s when the next guy sits down and introduces himself as Takeshi. A salaryman. He’s nice. Which may sound like you’re damning him with faint praise, but considering everyone else has been mediocre at best, you’ll take “nice” gladly. You tell him your name and he smiles, like you’ve given him some good news.

"What do you do for work?” he asks, picking up his shochu.

“Well...”

You hate answering this question – it’s just a job. It’s not like you’re not a doctor or a firefighter or something, someone who lives for their job and studied for years to become one. You do your work because you have to, because it’s how you pay to live in your apartment and that’s preferable than living under a bridge. It doesn’t really say much about you as a person, really, except for the obsession with your boss.

Stop it. You think to yourself, sternly. Give him a chance.

Rangiku is right – you do need to get laid.

Easy for her to say, though. Rangiku doesn’t need to attend events like these because the idea she’d ever need to is absolutely laughable. You’ve seen men actually walk into things because they were too busy staring at her to watch where they were going. Women either hate her or they look at her in awe. Rangiku Matsumoto ever being short on offers for dates, or sex, or even someone to just do her bidding is ridiculous. But it’s not for you, even though you hate yourself a little bit for admitting it, because you know it’s the truth. You’re not like her.

“Oh, nothing special, just office stuff.” You say, trying to sound breezy. “What about you?”

God, you sound so fake. Why can’t people talk about things that are actually interesting? This is the equivalent of conversational elevator music. When does expected standard become acceptable to ignore for the sake of spicing things up a bit?

Perhaps you’ve been a little spoiled, though. You can think of someone who always manages to keep you on your toes and never bores you. But you give your head a quick shake like you’re trying to flick away a fly and try to pay attention to Takeshi, even though you’re more focused on the movement on his lips than the words themselves.

“So…what do you like to do for fun?” Takeshi asks.

Another kind of generic question, but at least he does sound somewhat interested when you answer. He's easy to read, you notice. His emotions are all just right there on his face, which feels…strange. Not necessarily in a bad way, but it’s like the difficulty on a video game has suddenly dropped.

“And you?” you prompt, deciding to go out on a limb and ask something direct. “What brings you here? Looking at you I wouldn’t think you have problems getting asked out.”

Shit, did that sound sarcastic? You didn’t mean it to be. But Takeshi seems pleased by the comment, and you notice he has a dimple when he smiles.

“Well, to be honest I’m usually so tired after work I go home and just crash.” He says with a self-deprecating laugh, combing his fingers through light brown hair. “And most of the women in my office are married. Or over fifty and smell of boiled sweets.”

“Ha!” you bark out a laugh, the first time you’ve laughed or even smiled genuinely all night. “Yeah, I get that. Plus, there’s that whole worry about if things don’t go well with a colleague, you still have to face them all the time over the water cooler.”

“Water cooler?” Takeshi blinks.

“Nevermind.” You take another sip of your wine, then make a face. It truly is disgusting – why are you still drinking it at all? Time to be the change you want to be. “Excuse me, let me go buy myself something less vile.”

“I’ll come with you!” he practically jumps out of his seat.

Things flow surprisingly easy once you find someone you can talk to – Takeshi doesn’t understand all your little jokes and you suspect he finds your habitual sliding into sarcasm somewhat confusing, but he’s at least got enough social intelligence to ask questions and reply with more than one-word answers and he even insists on paying for your drink. A little unease creeps through you, wondering if it’s a trick and he’s trying to build a tab against you by doing it, but he seems so eager to be of use in some way that you capitulate. You can always buy him one later.

Soon enough there’s a call for a break – apparently events like these are split into two to give everyone a little time to gather their thoughts, buy more alcohol, go to the bathroom, smoke, whatever. You decide to slip outside, where there’s this surprisingly pleasant little outdoor seating area with picnic tables and a few plants in huge planters (probably so drunk people can’t knock them over), an alleyway leading out to the street. You perch down at one of the tables and suck in a deep breath, before checking your phone and generally enjoying some quiet. With the music pumping through the speakers and the buzzing of conversation, you know that if you linger too long, you’ll wake up with a headache tomorrow. You make a mental note not to just collapse into bed when you get home no matter how much you want to and get something to drink – juice or whatever you have in the fridge.

“There you are.”

You glance over your shoulder. Oh. Of course, Takeshi followed you out – why wouldn’t he? Still, a little irritation nudges at you, which you try to ignore.

“Yeah. The music in there is…kinda loud.” You say, with a friendly grimace.

“Yeah, it is.”

He comes to sit down next to you, and he’s very close, his thigh pressed against yours, denim rubbing up against your skin. Again, a spark of annoyance at how he didn’t even think twice about encroaching on your personal space when you clearly want a minute alone. You clear your throat, feeling a sudden weight between you that wasn’t present when you were talking inside. Rather than being exhilarating, you feel nervous. Almost a little queasy – now there’s a subtle sort of pressure, bearing down on you. An expectation has formed and one way or another, you’re going to have to meet it. Irrationally, you resent Takeshi a little for this, for this sudden invisible hand pressing down on the back of your neck.

Do you have a right to feel uncomfortable? Isn’t this why you came here – for something like this to happen?

Yet…

Takeshi says your name, making you jump, and when you turn to look at him, he’s staring intently at you, his eyes looking oddly gooey and wet in his head, almost like he’s on the brink of tears. Or is that just a trick of the light?

“Yes?” you say, hyperaware of everything suddenly. Your clothes, previously sitting comfortably on you, feel itchy. You want to take off your necklace, your makeup. You want to run away. To not be seen.

“Can I kiss you?” he breathes.

If he notices that the pause that follows this question is slightly too long, he doesn’t comment on it. Perhaps he chooses not to notice it. Your throat feels dry, and you swallow.

“Okay.” You answer, because you’d feel like a hypocrite if you said no.

So he does.

It's…fine.

Damned by faint praise again, huh? You think, as his mouth touches yours. He only makes a couple of seconds pretense at actually kissing you, before he’s clumsily licking at your mouth to ask for you to open it. You do, because the way he’s licking your lips is tickling them and it’s kind of irritating, and then his tongue, a wet slab, thrusts between your top and bottom teeth. Your own tongue is buffeted to the side for a second and you have to push it into his mouth just to get some air.

And, most damning of all… in your head, a countdown starts – you’ve been kissing for a couple of seconds and you’re already bored and waiting for it to be over.

You make a noise like a gag and draw your head back, wiping saliva off your chin with the back of your hand. Ugh. Ew.

“Sorry.” Takeshi says with a breathy laugh, and he can’t ignore the disapproval in your face. “Let me try again-“

“My, my.”

You both freeze.

Like something out of a comedy movie, except you don’t feel much like laughing, both of you slowly turn your heads towards the voice, even though you don’t need to – you know who has caught you out here – you’d know that voice anywhere.

Gin stands watching you both with a slight tilt to his head, that permanent smile stretched wide.

And your heart, weak, traitorous thing it is, begins to thump loudly at the sight of him, like a dog wagging its tail.

He looks good too – white shirt, black trousers, a thin silver chain of a necklace disappearing into his collar. You can smell a hint of the cologne he uses, a subtle tease to your nose instead of the cloying, overpowering brands you’ve been unintentionally inhaling all night.

Both you and Takeshi stand up in sync, like you’re in a play and have just remembered your stage directions. Gin glides closer with graceful, soundless footsteps, the white of his shirt making him look not unlike a ghost in the dim outdoor lighting.

The appearance of Gin drives home a truth that you have been subconsciously fleeing from, as efficiently as a sledgehammer whacking down a nail. Because the thing is, it doesn’t matter if somebody is nice, or if they’re a decent kisser, or if they don’t mind waiting politely for you to make up your mind about what you want to do next.

The fact is, as long as Gin Ichimaru holds your heart in his hands, there is no hope of giving it to anyone else. And he knows it.

You freeze and a trickle of panic crawls down your spine. Your lipgloss is smudged and it's pretty obvious what you were just doing. Your eyes dart from Takeshi to Gin - does he know? Know that your heart didn't even change its speed the whole time Takeshi was touching you? Know that all you could think about when you spoke to every guy in there, you could only see inscrutable smiles and long, elegant fingers in your mind's eye?

"Sir." you say, feeling silly - it feels a little late to fall back on protocol now, but what else can you say?

"I'll take it from here," Gin says, ostensibly to Takeshi, but it’s no doubt difficult for him to tell considering Gin’s eyes are closed as usual and his face is still squarely facing you.

“I-“ Takeshi says, glancing at you, but you barely register the quizzical tilt of his eyebrow, too busy staring at Gin like a deer in headlights.

Ordinarily a man gatecrashing another man’s date and summarily dismissing him would provoke anger, defiant, maybe even the beginning of a fight, but despite the constant smiling, Gin’s don’t-fuck-with-me vibes are immaculate and since you clearly know him, Takeshi gives in rather quickly.

“Oh, um…sure. Goodnight, then.” He said, with an awkward little nod.

You know that you should be insisting he stay, apologise for…well, for before, that you should do something. But keeping him around for Gin to torment would be far crueller than indifference, so you just nod back.

“Night.” You say, firmly, and wearing a look of polite bewilderment, Takeshi goes back inside.

Silence settles like snow as the door shuts with a dull thus behind Takeshi. Gin looks at you, and you find your eyes sliding away. Words tangle in your throat. “Why are you here?” you demand rather rudely, blinking hard to fight back the peculiar but strong urge to tear up. Did Rangiku tell him about this?

Why does he have to spoil everything?

“I went for a walk,” Gin replies with that fucking smile still adorning his face and he moves closer to you, his footsteps smooth and flowing as water. “Imagine my surprise to come across such a racy little scene. Tell me, do ya always let strange men kiss you in alleyways?”

“How’s that any of your business?” you bite back, yet your find yourself being crowded back against the wall as Gin steps closer, getting in your space.

His smile doesn’t waver, but working under him for so long has made you something of a specialist at reading the subtle nuances of his facial expressions – there’s a slight forcedness to his smile and a pinch of tension between his eyebrows that even he can’t totally smooth away.

“So, she has a tongue.” Gin hums, as if to himself.

His hand reaches out, pinching your chin, tilting your face up. You don’t resist and hate yourself for the undeniable crackle of electricity when he touches you – Gin rarely puts his hands on anyone, so that you’ve pushed him to do so gives you a stab of victory, paltry as it is.

But your feeling of triumph is incredibly short-lived as, with deliberate care like he’s excavating a fragile artefact from the ground, Gin swipes the pad of his thumb across your bottom lip. Your mouth tingles where he touches you and you stand stock-still, gazing up at him with wide eyes.

Gin raises his hand to his mouth and, slowly, his tongue glides across the pad of his thumb, licking off the sweet tasting gloss that had been formally coating your lips. You can only stare at him, transfixed, watching his tongue slide back into his mouth.

“Tastes sweet.” Gin remarks in that teasing lilt of his. He still hasn’t let go of your face. “But I think…”

You’re given no time to react before suddenly, he is pulling you in, one hand clamping on your waist, leaning down to your mouth-

Oh, fuck.

This isn’t possible. It can’t be. As long as you’ve known him, Gin has always held you at a very specific arm’s length – far enough to leave you in a perpetual state of yearning, but close enough so that he can have you yanked back to him by a crook of his beckoning fingers.

That he could cross this barrier any time he liked to kiss you and chose not to, only to do it now, is almost inconceivable.

But-

His lips are surprisingly warm against yours, which is funny because his hands are cold. But heat is all you can think about, your body surging with it, a blush rising to your face, your mouth opening for him without a thought. He invades your mouth like he invaded your head, leaving you no room to say a word, he won’t allow for any feeble denials or pointless questions. There are many ways to communicate, after all – words are just one of them.

Your back meets rough brick wall and you give a muffled grunt. Gin has your wrists pinned either side of your head and you feel like a butterfly on a slab – yet your cunt doesn’t seem to have the common sense to be wary of him like your brain does, because you can feel a telltale throb of excitement between your legs as he easily holds you in place, keeping you exactly where he wants you.

“Gin - sir-“ you stumble over your words.

“Shsh.” He hisses, and you shut up.

He pauses as he looks you up and down, even though his eyes are shut as always. A teasing smile curls at his lips and you dimly note he’s probably never seen you dressed up before, at least if you don’t count work Christmas parties. It seems he doesn’t have any problems with what you’re wearing, since nothing catty leaves his lips.

“I was right,” Gin nods slowly, his words a slow, measured singsong, like he’s about to read you a story. “Things like this gotta be savoured, y’know? I wonder…do you taste so good everywhere?”

Your mouth drops open, and your cheeks turn hot. Is he implying what you think he is?

“I- that’s-“ you splutter, because he’s always had the power to turn you into a gibbering moron even when he isn’t casually dropping sexual innuendos like a bomb.

Gin chuckles and gives your cheek an affectionate poke, before he tips his chin down, and slowly, with elegance, sinks down onto his knees. You can only watch him, transfixed, as he settles comfortably between your legs and he doesn’t have to tell you to part your legs – you do it without even thinking about it. You make the mistake of looking down.

Gin is looking up at you, between your spread thighs, his hands gripping your thighs so tightly that you know you’re going to have bruises where his thumbs are digging into your flesh.

And his eyes are open. Oh, fuck me sideways. You think, your own widening.

“Be a good girl and hold still.” Gin says in a silky voice, and now his eyes are open the gleam of amusement in them is all too visible to you. You could almost kick him for keeping them shut most of the time – they’re a beautiful shade of pale blue. You don’t have time to admire them for long though. Gin has business to attend to.

And attend it he does. He barely needs to do anything to keep you pressed against the wall, you’re rooted to the spot as his hands slide up your thighs, taking the gauzy material of your dress along with them. Cool air brushes up against your legs, but that isn’t the reason you’re shivering.

He smirks at the sight of your underwear – you’d worn something somewhat sexy to try and get into the spirit of tonight, but not a thong since you knew you’d be sitting down a while and didn’t want to think about it the whole time. So instead, he’s greeted by black panties with lacy panels on the sides, heated flesh just concealed beneath it.

“Now these,” Gin says in a singsong voice, snapping the elastic against your hip, the pop of noise in the stillness making you jolt. “Are the kind of panties you’d wear if you wanted to get fucked.”

“G-Gin…” you mewl.

He snickers at your embarrassment, eyes shifting back to your crotch. Teasingly slow, like you’re a dessert he wants to savour, he starts to peel your underwear down, fingers massaging your flesh, kneading it. He leans in, his breath hot on your core.

His tongue is skilled, you knew that already, but now you’re getting a real firsthand experience with it. He isn’t shy about nuzzling up against your cunt, nails digging crescent marks into the flesh of your legs as he licks inbetween your folds, hot and mercilessly and you keen out loud. If anybody comes outside for a smoke right now, you are so fucked.

But all of it – the thrill of getting caught, shock of Gin touching you, the roughness of the brick scraping your bare skin, the chilly bite of a spring night and the way your head is swimming from nasty cheap wine and boiling-over lust…all of it throws what’s going on into blinding focus.

“Gin…” you keen aloud, wanting to pull his pretty silver locks but you don’t quite dare, so you settle for resting a hand on his shoulder instead, your fingers clamping down on him in a voice grip. “Oh, fuck…nngh…”

He just gives a muffled chuckle and amps up the pace, his long, slender fingers creeping up to tease at your clit while his mouth attends to your cunt. Your legs are wobbling as you try to maintain your balance, but it’s not easy when he’s working you over like this, reaching places you could never manage with your own fingers…how the fuck is he so good at this?! It’s like he has a perfect, 3-D map of where everything is and exactly what to do to drive you insane. Your head has gone from verging on a headache to pleasantly, blissfully light and fuzzy, electricity zipping up and down your limbs, heat blooming in your core. He has to stop or you’re going to explode, but if he stops now you think you really might die…

“I’m coming…” you gasp out, tilting your head back, breath coming out in stuttered gasps. “Gin, please, fuck…don’t stop…”

Fuck you. I love you. Fuck you. The words ring over and over in your head as – for once - Gin obliges you.

The feeling is so intense that for a second you’re practically swooning, supernovas of lust and relief exploding like fireworks behind your shut eyelids. It’s ridiculous – you’re against a brick wall outside a bar, you can smell cigarettes from a nearby ashtray, it’s chilly and any moment somebody wanting their nicotine fix could see you. Yet your heart is pounding, warmth painting your face, swelling in your chest and yes, the satisfaction of seeing Gin leaning back, licking his lips and slowly rising to his feet like he did nothing more taxing than tying his shoelace helps. You hurriedly make sure your dress is safely floating about above your knees once again, smoothing it down with shaking hands. As illicitly thrilling as it is to do this outside, you don’t want anybody who passes you to immediately know just what you’ve been doing. Though you’re sure it wouldn’t be hard to work out – you probably smell of sex now, overpowering the perfume you’d picked out to wear tonight. Of course Gin would figure out a way to exert his influence by masking your scent as well as ruining your lipgloss.

How are you supposed to go back inside now? Well, obviously, you aren’t. Gin’s made that abundantly clear – no toy of his is to go exchanging clumsy kisses with other men until he’s bored of playing with them, and if he has to go to extremes to prove his point, so be it.

He's a fucking cruel bastard.

You nearly ask, What are we? Out loud, but thankfully before you can speak, Gin grabs your wrist and starts tugging you along after him. He doesn’t explain himself and you stumble after him on unsteady legs, still tingling with the afterglow and feeling the phantom touch of his tongue on you.

There’s a taxi waiting in the street outside, the driver sitting patiently, checking something on his phone. Your eyes snap to Gin – how long has that been there? When did he order it? But you don’t get to ask any of these questions, before Gin steps across to the back door and opens it, practically bundling you inside.

“Take this one home, will ya?” he says cheerfully to the driving, reeling off your address and you’re astonished that he knows it well enough to be able to repeat it off the top of his head. “She’s had enough to drink, I think.”

“Gin, what-? Why-?” you blurt out, trying desperately to get some semblance of an explanation for all this out of him.

Surely he can’t have done all that for his own amusement. You never were sure if Gin was fully aware of how you felt. Most people in your office tend to be wary of him at best, so your skittishness with him could easily be attributed to that. But Gin is a very perceptive man, so perhaps those times when he would lean over you as you worked to point at something on your screen, or stood too close to you whenever you were in the lift together, or when he’d send you these secretive little smirks across the room…maybe that was more than just a tease. Was he trying to tell you all along that he knew?

He leans in close to you, one hand gripping the door, and your heart flutters in your chest, wondering if he’s going to kiss you again, wanting him to but also feeling that familiar swoop of fear and excitement-

He just smiles and boops your nose and unceremoniously shuts the door on in your face, and the car speeds away into the night. And belatedly, you realise something else, something that makes your legs clamp together – He took your fucking panties.

His voice rings mockingly in your head, the last thing he said before sending you on your way, the mirth in his voice brimming over.

“See you on Monday.”

[ovaruling]

@non-suspiciousname @junipercastor i’m not a dietician or doctor disclaimer disclaimer if you have preexisting conditions this may not be for you disclaimer disclaimer i cannot account for every human experience disclaimer disclaimer BUT the easiest way to do this is to first learn what “high fiber foods” means.

and before i begin, here’s how much fiber we more or less need via a helpful Harvard health article.

so, to recap: for women—the ones who matter to me—that’s 25g for adult women who are 50 and under. women 50 and over, that’s 21g.

and i included the extra paragraph about Metamucil etc bc that is important to note. a lot of people do think they’re getting quality daily fiber in these powders.

here’s a helpful article abt the differences between soluble and insoluble fiber. both are important in their own ways!

and just so we’re clear on the benefits of upping your fiber intake:

so!

i recommend a quick google to see the fiber content per serving of a variety of foods that i don’t have time condense here. but, like, beans are a really inexpensive way to do this (add some rice to it and you have a complete muscle-lovin’ protein btw! all the essential amino acids are covered when you combine rice and beans 🫶). beans and legumes are incredibly rich in fiber, and they’re budget-friendly, shelf-stable, and easy to make and easy to incorporate into infinite delicious possible dishes.

but your fiber can be gotten from so many different sources! (my data here is approximate from individual checking. pls allow 1-2g of fiber for margin of error in case i mistype!)

for fruits: 1 cup of blackberries OR raspberries has 8g of fiber!!!!! 1 medium apple has around 4-5g of fiber. an average banana or a serving of strawberries have 3g of fiber. an average avocado has 10g of fiber. and so forth

for grains: steel-cut oats have 5g of fiber per 1/4 cup uncooked (oats are generally rich in fiber anyway, but steel cut in particular). a slice of whole grain bread should have around 3g fiber. brown rice contains 3.5g fiber for every cooked cup. one cup of cooked quinoa (which is also a complete protein!) contains 5g of fiber. bran is almost 15g per one cup serving.

if you’ve got access to chia seeds, a 1oz serving provides 10g fiber. here’s a yummy super easy recipe for peanut butter chia pudding!!!

nuts and seeds provide a lot of fiber too. 1oz of walnuts contains nearly 2g fiber! 1oz of almonds contains 3.5g fiber. peanuts contain 2.5g fiber for 1oz. sunflower seeds are 12g per 1 cup serving (though that’s a lot of them to eat—1/4 a cup would be closer to 3g)

and my fave prunes are 12g per one cup serving. again, that’s a lot of them to eat. 1/4 of that would be 3g.

beans/legumes are king for fiber. 1 cup of cooked black beans contains 15g of fiber. 1 cup of navy beans contains around 19g of fiber. 1 cup of kidney beans contains 11g of fiber.

split peas are i think around 8g per cup when cooked? cooked broccoli is around 5g. corn is around 4g.

i could go on but i’m literally hooked up to an IV for medication rn so i’m one-handed lol i apologize for how cramped this is

but here’s a great list from the Mayo Clinic of high fiber foods and another list of 40 foods from a women’s health mag and also another from healthline, which also has a handy chart for fiber requirements for more specific age groups based on sex

and yes, there are also high-fiber cereals, but beware of the much-touted and rightly-feared ingredient of psyllium husk. it’s more or less used as a laxative and can be outright dangerous for your digestive system and is very painful if not consumed in militant moderation. ask me how i know lol. please please be careful of psyllium husk. like, for real. just stay away from it altogether imo.

sorry this is a lot of discombobulated info, but again i’m one handed at the moment. but hopefully that helps a bit! fiber is linked to longevity and good colon health and that’s what i want for women forever

EDIT: go slow with this! if you’re not used to the recommended daily intake, you will need to gradually work up to this so as not to upset your gastrointestinal system. you may otherwise find yourself in discomfort. GO SLOW. add fiber-rich foods in small portions over time to allow your body to adjust. it is well worth the patience—but don’t overload your system by eating a ton of prunes and thinking you’re doing yourself any good that way. introduce gently and in moderation until you feel comfortable with how it makes your digestion feel!

[theofficersacademy]

PROMPT 3. AND THE PARTY KEEPS GOING

Time stops for no one, and so this year’s Ethereal Ball begins to amble toward a close. Most attendees stay in the ballroom or its masquerade equivalent, determined to squeeze more dancing and socializing into this evening. Some, exhausted by the night’s festivities, head off to their dorm rooms for a well-deserved night of sleep.

But the night is still far from over! And yet more students are eager to party for as long as they can, especially after weeks of hearing that certain intrepid merchants would be selling hot street food long into the night. Wandering into the town square, you find it bright and filled with festivities: warm food, hard drinks, and small houses rented for private parties among friends.

Warm up with some food…

[ Mulled wine ] - Warm red wine spiced to perfection, ideal for staving off winter’s chill.

[ Chocolate fountain ] - A seemingly endless fountain of chocolate, accompanied by plenty of biscuits, cakes, and cookies to dip in.

[ “Pegasus Cheese” ] - Zofia’s most famed and exotic export (allegedly). A delicate yet firm cheese with a savory, salty, and buttery flavor that pairs well with fruit. It’s good, but perhaps not worth the price tag…

[ H-True-O Water ] - Originating from an artesian aquifer from the frigid lands of Albinea, this bottled water is boasted to be the finest in the world. With all that marketing thrown at you, you can really taste the difference!

[ Forestberry Jamwich ] - A recent mainstay across Fódlan, this sandwich combines sweet jam made from Fódlan’s summer berries with a savory paste made from ground Dagdan peanuts.

[ Romanesco Smoothie ] - A sweet milkshake with a pretty green color. The whipped cream and fruity taste mask the fact that half of this was made with broccoli and other vegetables. Good for sweet tooths who refuse to eat their greens.

[ Dona Dona Fried Set ] - A full-blown meal all on its own, featuring juicy fried chicken, deep-fried cheese with tomato sauce, and a basket of fried potato slices. Every bite you take tastes so good, but feels so bad.

[ Street Crepe ] - A novel take on an old classic, these handheld, stuffed crepes come in varieties both savoury and sweet. A light and fluffy treat to cap off the evening.

Not feeling hungry?

[ Splash ] - Amid the decorations brought in for the occasions is a beautiful three tier fountain sculpted in with Seiros in mind. Come refresh yourselves! But do try not to get soaked.

[ Fireflies ] - Also known as lightning bugs. Get it? … Maybe you want to catch the show, or maybe you want to catch the bugs. It's strange though - are they a new, more resilient species, perhaps? It is the middle of winter after all...

[ Wish ] - Have you ever wanted to wish upon a star, but never been lucky enough to witness the real thing? That's too bad, because these magical stars streaking across the sky probably still don't count, but they are gorgeous - and more than pretty enough to watch with a special someone else.

[ Goddess Tower, Redux ] - Maybe you've already tried and fallen flat on your face earlier this eve. Or have you perhaps been nervously biding your time? The night is young but it trust that it will come to an end - so there's no time like the present to gather your courage and make known your love! Plus the view of the open skies is gorgeous all on its own, and well worth the climb for any singleton too.

[ Lucky Charms ] - What's a magical night without some souvenirs? A particularly enterprising merchant who's been around for the past few balls has come up with a genius lucrative lovely idea: charms and bracelets with the chosen year's theme, so as to remember it by... You should totally get matching versions for your friends, too!

[ Say 'Fromage'! ] - The alumna is already in town with her Photo-Artifex replica and, thanks to many of you, she's done with her testing much earlier than anticipated! She promises a one-of-a-kind keepsake in the form of 'photos' ranging from serious to silly, a variety of props to choose from included. If you're feeling particularly daring, maybe you'll even try out the artifex-box?

Missing something else to cap off your magical soirée? Go for it!

[isabel0430]

Sinigang

Sinigang is a sour soup native to the Philippines. This recipe uses pork as the main ingredient. Other proteins and seafood can also be used. Beef, shrimp, fish are commonly used to cook sinigang.

I grew-up eating pork sinigang at least once a week with a saucer of fish sauce and crushed siling labuyo on the side as my dipping sauce. During rainy days, I enjoy my sinigang meal with rice and a few pieces of fried tuyo. These are small fish that were salted and dried under the sun. It is a good combination as far as I am concerned.

How to Cook Sinigang

1. Extract The Flavors From The Tamarind

The old school method of cooking sinigang makes use for fresh young tamarind. This has to be boiled until enough sourness is extracted from it. In this recipe, I boiled the tamarind in 2 quarts of water for 40 minutes. It can be done for up to 1 hour for optimal results.

Once the flavors are extracted from the fruit, the solid parts of the tamarind need to be removed. Do this by running the water into a kitchen sieve or a strainer. I recommend squeezing the tamarind afterwards. You will be surprised on how much flavors are left in the pulp

2. Boil The Tamarind Broth And Cook The Meat

Traditional sinigang is cooked plainly by boiling all the ingredients together. Start by pouring the tamarind broth (in step 1) into a cookware of your choice. Deep and wide pots are perfect for this.

Boil the liquid and then add some onion and tomato. This will add flavor to the broth. This is also the proper time to add the pork belly. Make sure to cover your pot so that the liquid can boil quickly.

Skim-off the floating scums, add a bit of fish sauce for flavor, and then cover and simmer until the pork becomes tender. This can take between 45 to 90 minutes depending on the quality of the meat.

3. Add The Vegetables Sequentially

Not all vegetables cook at the same time. This is the reason why I am adding the sinigang veggies by batch.

The first batch of veggies to add are daikon radish and eggplants. Some people also add their string beans at this point if they want it to be extra soft later on. I prefer mine to be a bit crisp.

After 5 minutes of cooking in low heat (above simmering temp), add the long green peppers, string beans, remaining tomatoes, and okra and continue cooking for 3 minutes.

4. Season It And Then Add The Remaining Ingredients

There is one vegetable that needs to be added yet. I am referring to the water spinach. I personally add the stalk and leaves on the later part of the process to retain its freshness. It is important to serve the soup right away (while piping hot) for best results.

For this step, I added the stalks of the water spinach and seasoned the dish with fish sauce (patis) and ground black pepper (this ingredient is optional). Quickly cook it for around 2 minutes before adding the water spinach leaves. Cover and turn the heat off. You will basically be cooking the leaves using the residual heat inside the pot. Do this for 3 to 5 minutes. It should be enough for you to prepare the rice and side dishes on the dining table before announcing to everyone that dinner (or lunch) is served.

What fruits are used in sinigang to make taste sour?

The quality of this dish depends on the souring agent. These fruit ingredients can make the soup sour:

Tamarind

The most common and widely used is unripe tamarind. It is known as sampaloc in the Philippines and this ingredient is where the popular “instant sinigang mixes” are derived from.

Young tamarind has a higher concentration of tartaric acid, which gives it a tangy and sour taste. This sourness is especially pronounced in young tamarind pods or when using the pulp extracted from them.

Guava

Guavas can vary in flavor depending on their ripeness and variety, but they typically have a sweet and tangy taste. Some varieties of guava can be more sour than others, especially if they are not fully ripe. However, ripe guavas tend to have a pleasant balance of sweetness and tartness. Overall, while guavas can have a slightly sour undertone, they are generally known for their sweet and aromatic flavor.

Bilimbi (Kamias)

Bilimbi is a tropical fruit-bearing tree originating from Indonesia, though it is also present in other regions of Southeast Asia and certain Pacific islands. The fruit of the bilimbi tree resembles a small cucumber or green chili pepper, typically measuring between 4 to 10 centimeters in length. Its taste profile is characterized by a tart and sour flavor akin to that of a green plum or sour green apple.

In culinary practices, bilimbi finds frequent use in sour dishes, pickles, relishes, and preserves. It is also incorporated into various cuisines for curries, sauces, and salads. Given its acidic nature, bilimbi serves as a viable alternative to vinegar or tamarind in certain recipes. Furthermore, bilimbi holds significance in traditional medicine for its purported medicinal properties, believed to offer diverse health benefits.

Green Mango

Green mangoes are typically sour. The level of sourness can vary depending on the variety of mango and its stage of ripeness. Green or unripe mangoes have a firmer texture and a tart, tangy flavor due to their higher levels of acidity. As mangoes ripen and mature, they become sweeter and less sour, with a softer texture. Green mangoes are commonly used in various cuisines to add a sour or tangy flavor to dishes, such as salads, chutneys, pickles, and sauces.

Pineapple

Pineapple can contribute to making a soup taste sour, especially if it is used in large quantities or if the pineapple itself is particularly ripe and acidic. Pineapples contain natural acids, such as citric acid and malic acid, which can impart a tangy flavor to dishes.

The sourness of a pineapple is often balanced by its sweetness, creating a pleasant and refreshing taste. Some varieties of pineapples may be naturally sweeter or more acidic than others. Additionally, the way pineapples are grown, harvested, and stored can also affect their taste.

However, the degree of sourness imparted by pineapple will depend on various factors, including how it is prepared and cooked, as well as the other ingredients used in the soup. Overall, pineapple can contribute to making a soup taste sour, but its impact on the overall flavor will depend on the specific recipe and culinary preferences.

Cotton Fruit (Santol)

Cotton fruit, also known as santol, typically has a sour taste when unripe. However, as the fruit ripens, its flavor can vary. Ripe cotton fruit can be sweet with a hint of sourness, especially near the skin or closer to the seeds. The level of sourness can also depend on the specific variety of cotton fruit and individual preferences.

The best vegetable soup in the world!

What is sinigang?

Of the many soups and stews that proliferate Filipino cuisine, it can be sure that sinigang has no rival. Many meals, both in childhood and adulthood, have been spent sitting in front of the familiarly flavorful broth. Its inviting aroma belies a flavor unlike no other — tart, savory, and refreshing, one can’t help but fall in love with it! With many heralding it as the national Filipino food, it comes as no surprise that its reputation has spread far and wide across the world.

Pork Sinigang Recipe

Indeed, in 2021, travel guide TasteAtlas proclaimed our humble dish to be the best vegetable soup in the world! This should come as no surprise to us, either. After all, who can resist the warmth and comfort that a bowl of sinigang brings? Although a staple so common in every household, knowing that sinigang will be the main course of the day can’t help but elicit feelings of excitement and delight. No matter the weather nor the season, sinigang stands both the test of time and climate. This dish brings pleasure wherever it finds a home, and Filipinos continue to relish in its sour, but yummy taste.

Where does sinigang come from?

A mix of tender meat, fresh spinach, string beans, and tomatoes, as well as a dash (or more) of savory fish sauce, make for the perfect combination in simmering and incorporating each unique flavor with each other. Powerful and poignant, sinigang is a Filipino native, through and through. Its name, sinigang, originates from the Tagalog verb that directly translates to “to stew” — sigang! Because of its Tagalog name, many presume it to be Tagalog in origin as well. This yummy meal has relatives in other regions in the country as well, to be sure — yet none are quite like this classic soup that many have fallen in love with.

Pork Sinigang Recipe

Again, sinigang isn’t a dish so much as it is a cooking method. This is why, like we mentioned earlier, there are a wide number of variations of this delicious dish! These include your sinigang na hipon, a favorite seafood variant. Here, tender and fresh shrimp soak up all the vibrant flavors of your beloved stew. It’s important to keep your shrimp perfectly cooked, so it’s much easier to peel the skin off later on.

sinigang

And for something a little more out of the box? Try this sinigang mix inasal na manok! Now, these are two dishes you wouldn’t commonly associate with each other. But the thrilling flavors of a sinigang broth, coupled with the smoky taste of inasal, makes this a winning combination. This twist on another Filipino favorite breathes life into your everyday inasal recipe. Sample it for yourself!

Which sinigang variant is your favorite?

Sinigang Ingredients

Sinigang ingredients

Pork Belly – I am using 2 lbs. of pork belly for this recipe. This is the same cut of the pork that is used to make bacon. Aside from using pork, you may use beef, chicken, fish, and shrimp.

Young tamarind – This is unripe tamarind. It has a sour taste and is the traditional souring agent for this dish. Other

Water Spinach – Kangkong is the local name for water spinach. Make sure to wash this thoroughly before using.

String Beans – Sitaw, also known as snake beans is a regular component of this dish. Green beans (Baguio beans) can be used as an alternative.

Eggplant – Chinese or Japanese eggplant varieties are best for this dish. I am using 2 pieces for this recipe. Slice the eggplants diagonally or roll-cut it.

Daikon radish – Labanos is the local term for this vegetable. 1 medium sized daikon is enough for your sinigang na baboy. I consider this as an optional ingredient.

Long green pepper – Siling pansigang is a must have as far as I am concerned. You can substitute this with either Jalapeno or Serrano peppers.

Sinigang Alternative Ingredients

Sinigang na Baboy

This sinigang version makes use of pork belly. Any cuts of pork can be used to make it. Beef and fish can also be utilized.

I am using spinach in this recipe. It is actually an alternative ingredient to kangkong (water spinach), which is the most common type of leafy green vegetable used when cooking sinigang.

Sinigang mix is a powdered product that helps bring-in that good sour taste to sinigang. Old school methods requires boiling either fresh young tamarind or bilimbi for a long time until the flavors are extracted. It is your choice. It is a no-brainer, so I chose flavor and convenience.

Pork Sinigang

Tips & Tricks

Meat quality

The quality of the meat is an important factor to consider when cooking sinigang as it can affect your overall eating experience. Make sure to cook the meat until tender. You don’t want to challenge yourself by chewing the meat with all your might. Slow cooking or simmering the meat for 60 to 90 minutes (or longer as needed) makes it extra tender and also provides more flavor to the broth.

In addition, having moist meat is ideal. Fat plays an important role to this. Use either pork belly or pork shoulder to have this result.

Adding flavors to the broth

Onion and tomato brings-in flavor to the broth. Cook it during the initial steps. Some people like their tomato intact. If you are one of these people, I suggest to cook half of the tomato initially and add the remaining once the dish is almost done.

Working with available ingredients

You can still make sinigang even without all the vegetable in the list. All you need is pork, green leafy veggies, and the souring agent. Of course, water is essential for this recipe.

Sinigang for busy people

Busy people can use a slow cooker to cook sinigang. Make sure to add the spinach or kangkong only when you are about to eat. It is best to have these fresh.

Is sinigang really the national dish of the Philippines?

Though many make jokes and proclamations to the same effect, the truth of the matter is that sinigang is only the Philippine’s national dish unofficially. Regardless, some dishes may also rise to the challenge of national dish, and have separate camps of their own! Let’s take a look at some of them now.

pork sinigang panlasang pinoy

For starters, of course, you have sinigang’s topmost competition: adobo! Point blank, adobo is perhaps sinigang’s antithesis: where the latter is sour and tart and soupy, adobo is a salty, savory and saucy dish. The only thing they have in common is their use of juicy and tender pork belly as the main protein. Like sinigang, the term adobo refers to a general cooking method, and not necessarily one particular meal. To adobo something means to marinate it in a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorn. These flavors intermingle so perfectly, you wouldn’t be able to tell one from the other. The result is, to be sure, a dish that is so umami you’d want to drizzle the sauce over your entire plate of rice!

What goes well with sinigang?

This is best served with a condiment composed of fish sauce and crushed fresh Thai chili pepper.

I grew up having salted fried herring (also known as tuyo) as a side dish for my sinigang. The saltiness of the fish complements the sour broth of the soup.

What is a substitute for kangkong?

Kangkong is one of the main ingredients for sinigang. It is recognized under names like water spinach, water morning glory, or Chinese spinach, is a verdant vegetable frequently incorporated into Southeast Asian cooking. With its delicate stems and leaves, it’s frequently prepared through stir-frying, steaming, or inclusion in soups and salads.

You can use the following as alternative ingredients: Spinach, Bok Choy, and Pak Choy.

Other popular Filipino dishes

An additional Filipino favorite would be the tasty lechon! Celebrations across the country just wouldn’t be a celebration without the presence of a gorgeously golden brown pig to complete it

Sinigang na Baboy

Try this Filipino Pork Sinigang Recipe. Let me know what you think. We can share ideas and let our opinions be heard by posting a comment.

pork sinigang panlasang pinoy

5 from 3 votes

Sinigang

Filipino sour soup with pork and vegetables

Prep: 10minutes minutes

Cook: 1hour hour

Ingredients

▢2 lbs. pork belly see notes

▢1 lb. young tamarind see notes

▢1 bunch water spinach chopped

▢8 pieces string beans cut into 2-inch pieces

▢2 pieces eggplants sliced

▢1 piece daikon radish see notes

▢8 pieces okras

▢2 pieces tomatoes sliced into wedges

▢2 pieces long green pepper

▢1 piece onion sliced into wedges

▢2 quarts water

▢Fish sauce and ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Boil the young tamarind in 2 quarts of water for 40 minutes. Filter the tamarind broth using a kitchen sieve or a strainer. Squeeze the tamarind afterwards to extract its remaining juices.

1 lb. young tamarind, 2 quarts water

Pour the tamarind broth into a cooking pot. Let it boil and then add the onion, pork belly, and half the amount of the tomatoes.

2 lbs. pork belly, 1 piece onion, 2 pieces tomatoes

Skim-off the floating scums, pour 1 tablespoon fish sauce, cover and continue to simmer for 1 hour.

Fish sauce and ground black pepper

Add daikon radish and eggplants. Cook for 5 minutes.

1 piece daikon radish, 2 pieces eggplants

Add the long green pepper, string beans, remaining tomatoes, and okra. Cook for 3 minutes.

8 pieces string beans, 2 pieces tomatoes, 2 pieces long green pepper, 8 pieces okras

Add the chopped water spinach stalks and season with fish sauce and ground black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.

Fish sauce and ground black pepper

Put the water spinach leaves. Cover and turn the heat off. Let the residual heat cook the leaves for 3 minutes before serving.

1 bunch water spinach

Share and enjoy!

Notes

Pork Belly – This is the best cut to use when cooking sinigang, in my opinion. The fat in the belly makes the meat moist which complements well to its tenderness. The other cuts of pork that I use are: pork shoulder, spare ribs, and pork neck bones.

Young Tamarind – Use only young tamarind if you want your soup to be sour. However, a combination of both young and ripe tamarind can be good too, especially if you like your soup to have a hint of sweetness.

Daikon Radish – This is an optional ingredient for sinigang.

Taro (gabi) – Adding taro to the dish will make the soup thicker. This is a version of the dish known as sinigang na baboy with gabi.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Nut Day

Walnut, Hazelnut, Chestnut, Kola Nuts, Pine Nuts, Cashews, and more. There are more types of nuts in the world than most people realize, and many more of these are used for food than people suspect. Most people have a favorite kind of nut, most commonly involved in a favored kind of treat, but there are varieties and uses for nuts that are not commonly known.

Did you know that the flavor in your cola originally came from the Kola Nut? Or that Beech Nuts are commonly used as feed for animals? From ages past these high-fat, high-protein tree seeds have served as a major source of winter survival. Their natural ability to be stored and resist decay throughout the winter has made them a valuable resource for animals and humans alike.

What’s even more fascinating is that nuts have been revealed to have notable health benefits for those with a history of Coronary Heart Disease by lowering LDL cholesterol concentrations.

Learn about National Nut Day

National Nut Day has been created in order to encourage the public to consume healthier snack options. What is your go-to snack? A packet of crisps? A chocolate bar? We know that we are guilty of going for the unhealthy option more regularly than we should! So, why not use National Nut Day as the perfect opportunity to switch up your workplace snack? Some nuts, or a combination of nuts and dried fruit, is a healthy snack that will bring a lot of benefits.

The great thing about nuts is that there are so many different types and varieties to choose from. They come in many different sizes and shapes. You have everything from wrinkly walnuts to teardrop-shaped almonds, and so you are bound to find something that appeals to your taste buds.

We also love National Nut Day because nuts are not only delicious, but they are nutritious as well. Different nuts have different benefits. For example, almonds are rich in vitamin E, calcium, and protein. Another beneficial type of nuts is pistachios. They are high in fiber and they can help to reduce a rise in blood sugar after you have had a meal. Walnuts are also very popular, and they are a great source of omega-3 fatty acid. They can improve factors relating to heart health. Or, what about cashews? Cashews can improve blood pressure and they have a good nutrient profile too.

It is definitely a good idea to do a bit of research on your favorite nuts on Nuts Day too. You will be surprised by the different benefits that are associated with the variety of nuts out there. For a piece of food that is so small, it certainly packs a powerful punch when it comes to the different nutrients and benefits that it can bring.

History of National Nut Day

The Liberation Foods Company organized National Nut Day to celebrate the long and storied history of the nut, as well as to dispel some pernicious myths, such as the persistent idea that peanuts are a nut for instance. Nuts have been part of our diets for time out of mind, a trait we likely learned by following our fuzzy four footed brethren to their winter stores.

Since the inception of National Nut Day, great festivals have sprung up around the world to celebrate the versatility and great taste of the nut. There’s nothing like the rich smell of roast nuts to remind you that fall is here, and there is nothing to soothe a sweet tooth like a roast candied nut. Orange Glazed, Cinnamon, Sweet Chipotle are just a few of the common and more unusual flavors available in the world of the nut.

How to celebrate National Nut Day

The best way to celebrate National Nut Day is by treating yourself to your favorite nut related treat. Whether that’s a nut rich doughnut or a bag of your favorite roasted nuts, National Nut Day is an opportunity to indulge in the rich, nutty taste of.. well.. nuts!

There are often events held by vendors of nuts and their enthusiasts, where they share activities, introduce new types of nuts, and even share the best nut recipes. So get out there and improve your health and your winter with these shell-covered treasures.

There are plenty of other activities that you can do on National Nut Day. This includes making your favorite nut butter. A lot of people love nut butter, but why go to the store and purchase the premade version when you can probably make a much nicer version yourself? All you need to do is grab your favorite nut and throw them into a food processor. Most people will add some sweetener, and then all you need to do is blitz the combination. It really is as easy as that. Some people love their creation so much that they simply eat it out of the food processor. We won’t tell if you don’t!

Another way to celebrate National Nut Day is by adding them to your meal. Nuts are incredibly versatile, meaning they can be added to everything from breakfast to dinner. They go just as good in oatmeal as they do a stir-fry or salad. You can also brighten up someone else’s day on National Nut Day by bringing them a nut-based treat. A snack-sized packet of nut goodies is bound to put a smile on anyone’s face. It’s always nice when someone thinks about you, right?

Source

[personalizedgiftideas]

The Perfect Diwali Gift: Dry Fruit Hampers

Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for celebration, joy, and sharing happiness with loved ones. One of the most thoughtful and health-conscious gifts you can give during this festive season is a dry fruit hamper. Packed with a variety of nutritious and delicious dry fruits, these hampers are perfect for spreading festive cheer. Here’s why dry fruit hampers make an excellent Diwali gift hamper and how to choose the perfect one.

Why Choose Dry Fruit Hampers?

Health Benefits: Dry fruits are packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. They are a great source of energy and provide numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, better heart health, and enhanced immunity. Gifting a dry fruit hamper shows that you care about the well-being of your loved ones.

Long Shelf Life: Unlike perishable items, dry fruits have a long shelf life, making them a practical gift choice. They can be enjoyed over an extended period, ensuring that your gift is appreciated long after Diwali is over.

Versatility: Dry fruits can be enjoyed on their own or used in various recipes, from traditional sweets to modern desserts. This versatility makes them a popular choice for gifting during Diwali.

Elegance and Tradition: Dry fruit hampers are often beautifully packaged, adding an element of elegance to your gift. They also hold traditional significance, as dry fruits have been a part of Indian festive celebrations for centuries.

Choosing the Perfect Dry Fruit Hamper

When selecting a dry fruit hamper, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the perfect one:

Variety: A good dry fruit hamper should include a variety of dry fruits such as cashews, pistachios, walnuts, almonds and raisins hamper. This ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Quality: Ensure that the dry fruits in the hamper are of high quality. Look for hampers that include premium, fresh, and well-packaged dry fruits. This will ensure that your gift is well-received and appreciated.

Packaging: The presentation of the hamper is important. Choose a hamper that is beautifully packaged, with festive decorations and a thoughtful design. This adds to the overall appeal of your gift.

Customization: Some hampers offer customization options, allowing you to add a personal touch to your gift. Consider including a personalized message or selecting specific dry fruits that you know the recipient will love.

Price Range: Dry fruit hampers come in various price ranges, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hamper or a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices available.

Popular Dry Fruit Hamper Combinations

Here are some popular dry fruit hamper combinations that you can consider for Diwali:

Cashew and Salted Pista Diwali Hamper

Pudina Cashew and Mixed Fruit Dried Diwali Hamper

Healthy Bliss Diwali Hamper

Dry Fruit Delicacy Box

Premium Diwali Hamper

Conclusion

Dry fruit hampers are a thoughtful, healthy, and elegant gift choice for Diwali. They offer a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making them suitable for recipients of all ages. By choosing a high-quality, beautifully packaged dry fruit hamper, you can spread joy and wellness this Diwali. So, go ahead and select the perfect dry fruit hamper to make your loved ones’ Diwali celebrations even more special. Happy Diwali! 🪔

[gemsofgreece]

Hello! I hope you’re well 🌻 I have a question. I would dearly love to visit Greece someday, but unfortunately I have a lot of food sensitivities (to gluten, dairy, and nuts) and I was wondering, if I was in a big city like Athens, how possible it would be to find accommodations for those sensitivities? Maybe? Not at all?

Thank you so much!

🌼 Hello! 🌼

No need to worry, you won’t have a problem in Athens! I believe you wouldn’t need to worry much in any of the 5 - 7 largest cities in Greece and the 3-5 most cosmopolitan islands.

🍧The nuts are the easiest one to avoid as the overwhelming majority of savoury Greek food doesn’t include nuts. However, nuts are an integral part in traditional Greek pastry making and there unfortunately you will have to keep your distances. However, you will find places in the big cities with gluten free and vegan pastries, even if they are not the most traditional options. BUT!!! There is also the literally most traditional Greek sweets that are both gluten free and dairy free: spoon sweets, usually made of dried fruits and syrup!!! Just make sure to choose one without nuts, there are many flavours!

Tomato, fig and apricot spoon sweets. There are many many more varieties! You will find them in traditional spoon sweet, herb and spice shops, some pastry shops, perhaps upscale hotels, upscale traditional cafes. The most classic varieties could be found in some supermarkets too.

👩‍🍳 When it comes to savoury food, things are much easier. With a search in Tripadvisor for Athens with the sensitivity filters, the site gives me 1347 results back. Here’s the link to the search. So you are not going to have a problem. You can also search for “best dairy free gluten free places in Athens”, there are some articles with guides and tips. Many medium and upscale restaurants also write in their menus that they have suitable dishes or that they are open to discuss your sensitivities and modify your dish accordingly.

🏨 If you intend to stay in a hotel and eat breakfast and / or dinner there, check their amenities / services on their website first, it might be mentioned there. If not sure, I believe you should discuss it first with the hotel via a call or an email to be sure before making the reservation. I believe several medium and more upscale hotels (4 and 5 stars) will take into consideration food sensitivities.

☕️ As for coffee shops, in the big cities many nowadays have dairy substitutes such as oat and almond milk. I believe rice milk is rarer, so if those bother you, keep in mind to check what the substitute milk is.

🏪 In the big supermarkets you will have no problem finding dairy substitutes (ie vegan or lactose free milk and cheese) . Gluten free pasta are easily available too. Gluten free is a little more challenging when it comes to snacks. Brands like Papadopoulos and VIOLANTA offer a few gluten-free snacks. Just keep in mind that we really love nuts in our snacks and candies and you have to double check every snack you see for potential warnings, because a lot do not have milk or nuts but are produced in the same industrial machines as milk and nut products which means they might be contaminated. Avoid mini-markets for snacks and substitutes.

🌯 Another tricky area is fast food. Our fast food is usually pies and pitas and you won’t be able to find gluten free options very easily. Obviously however you can get a portion of souvlaki or gyros without wrapping it in a pita or a bread so there’s that! Combine it with tomatoes, onions, ketchup, lettuce, potatoes and you are more than fine! But in order to try wrapped fast food, you will definitely have to check such guides for specialised restaurants I mentioned above.

Now the good news: aside from the snacks and fast food, the traditional Greek cuisine is based on the Mediterranean diet in which gluten ingredients are naturally limited.

🥗 Traditional Greek food revolves around meat, veggies, fish, seafood and beans. (And dairy but dairy can be more easily avoided.) This means that even if you are in any place in Greece, less modern and fancy, you will still be able to eat from a variety of dishes. Check the menu for the ingredients on the dishes and discuss with the waiter if you have questions and you can avoid the problems even in a pretty traditional place.

Below are some very traditional meals dairy and gluten free that can be found in low-key non specialising places:

Grilled or boiled vinegar octopus

Wild greens salad:

Yemistá (tomatoes and peppers stuffed with rice and sometimes minced meat - do double check that they haven’t put nuts in)

Agurodomata salad (essentially the Greek village salad but without the feta cheese, you can also ask it as a Horiatiki / Greek salad without the feta)

Spanakórizo (spinach rice)

Gígantes (Giant beans)

Many other delicacies in tsipouradika (seafood shops) and mezedopolía (appetizer shops) and of course all the dishes that involve meat and fish, particularly grilled, which are literally the most common. But beware of deep fried ones, in case they coat them in egg or wheat. I also don’t know if you have any limitations with spices and herbs, this is something you should keep in mind.

I also found a Greek gluten free restaurant card in case you stumble onto a restaurant where they don’t know good English (extremely unlikely in Athens, unlikely elsewhere as well)

Heck I don’t know why it put that red corrector on the image wtf. Anyway I have myself underlined with the thick red line the words αυγά (eggs), γαλακτοκομικά (dairy) and ομελέτα (omelette). The card is exclusively for gluten free, it says what you can’t eat and then goes on with what you can eat. This is why I underlined eggs and dairy, so that you can see which words they are and blur them if you print the clear copy. It proceeds with asking that in case the cook can’t adjust any dish from the menu, then whether they can prepare a simple dish with an omelette (I underlined it) or meat. (Of course if you can eat eggs, you don’t have to scratch it out, that’s why I underlined them to show you the words and gave you a clear copy as well.)

I found cards and apps for dairy and nuts in Greek but they were behind a paywall 😑

Anyway that’s all from me: as a summary, there are several options in Athens and you will surely be able to get by in other large cities and the top cosmopolitan islands. The truth is that this may affect a little the prices but Greece is overall cheaper than west Europe and the cosmopolitan regions in the US, so upscale and specialised shops in Greece will be like medium shops in those other places price-wise. (Note: Not true for Mykonos and Santorini islands) What you should be a little more cautious with is pastries and snacks.

Hope this helped a little! I wish you a carefree and delicious stay in Athens when you come ❤️

* If any of my Greek followers has personal recs of cool places for the Anon, please comment!!!

[searchingforserendipity25]

Elwing/Eärendil and or Turgon/Finrod? 💗

thank you so much @swanmaids! <3

elwing/eärendil

i usually think of them as childhood friends to lovers, in the most classic, truly-felt sense, but the variety of options is so interesting.

child monarchs with an arranged marriage in name only, strangers who quickly become lovers, who later find out the other is the prince/princess of the city's other half of the populace, mistaken identity shenanigans - plenty of fair-haired mannish mariners around balar, while elwing has internalized the idea that she has to tone down constantly her otherworldly presence and can pass as an elf most of the time.

any of them is good! the end result is the same. the big square - the trumpets of the iathrim, and flutes of gondolin. a thousand eyes on them, and two people's expectations and hopes, numberless griefs. they are wed. they are fruitful. they are a family.

they are a family. they are close to each other when it is such an effort and a danger to be close to anyone. they understand each other's trauma. elwing delights in the earth and eärendil in the sea, and in the end they both belong to the heavens. but they're each other's grounding place, always.

btw, i am lowkey obsessed with the fact that all seabirds are said to travel to elwing's tower. all of them, john ronald? does she single-handedly change a thousand years of migration patterns in the wake of the destruction of beleriand, or what. this is an insane line. does eärendil watch the vast flocks from the heavens, a single moving shadow upon the surface of arda, and rejoice because his wife will be joyful and in good company?

maybe not. but eärendil definitely keeps coming home to the most fantastic combination of colourful feathers of every kind, and it is the single most beautiful spectacle in nature, i mean, mind-breakingly gorgeous. but most glorious still is the small smile on elwing's cheeks when small fledglings attempt their first flight by jumping from the shelter of her arms, certain she will grab them if they fail.

eärendil gave her the choice. elwing has had so few choices, and he has always wanted her to have all that which she most wanted.

(and they are happy. it is so important that, one day, some days, they are as happy as they can be).

turgon/finrod

they!!! the lads! the nerds themselves! where to even begin. they are bffs and fwb and qpr and secretly married and fond exes. everyone who wants something about them should go read @sallysavestheday's Keep Your Secrets.

i want to have so many more thoughts on them because i love this ship so much. but one thing i am sure of is that they invent a new word in beleriand specifically so they can do the fun 'start calling each other partner naturally and never explain anything to anyone' fashion.

finrod carved busts of turgon in nargothrond and showed them to every visitor, told beor a hundred tales of his dearest friend. there was a small, fist-sized miniature in turgon's long sleeves, a two-sided thing with elenwe on one side and finrod in the other, two halves of the same whole (and the whole is turgon's heart).

actually i think they only get officially together post-mandos, in the shared-life sense, whatever that looks for them by then. build a city; start a mellower revolution. every conversation feels like picking up the thread of a long discourse, even after hundreds of years, or after death; and it is the most interesting conversation in the world, every time.

it's fluid, it's open. comfortable. vivid! so much is strange after rebirth, but they are never strangers to each other. recognize each other absolutely after ruin and hubris and horror, when making the way through estrangement is a foundational experience in rebirth.

they are most trustworthy and familiar and dear person in the room in every room to each other, the one they can leave behind without remorse because they know they will always find their way back together at the end of any long separation.

it is whatever they need it to be, and their faith in their connection and in each other is strong enough that it never fades.

[spooniechef]

Smoothies (1 spoon)

Smoothies have on occasion bewildered and intimidated me. That’s probably mostly because I’ve only seen the offerings at speciality smoothie bars and ordering from those feels like Starbucks on acid. But with the combined issues of vitamin D deficiency and needing something resembling breakfast with minimal effort, I decided to give it a shot. And yes, most of the individual recipes for smoothie flavours aren’t bad, but it didn’t give a whole lot of feel for how to personalise it to something that, say, I specifically might want on any given day. I wanted something that broke smoothies down to their essential components so I could put them together in the ways that I saw fit.

I finally found that on The Spruce Eats - just a simple How To Make A Smoothie guide. Of course, like most other things out there, it lacks the notes on how to make it a little easier for someone who might struggle with some things, so after a few days of getting the hang of the whole deal, here’s the breakdown, and some added hints and tricks. Also I halved the original recipe because I don’t tend to need two servings of smoothie at a go, and that’s what their recipe gave.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup fruit / fruits of your choice (fresh or frozen)

1/2 to 1 cup ice (if using fresh fruit)

1/2 cup liquid (juice or milk)

1/4 cup yoghurt (optional)

Sugar or honey to taste

Yep, really that simple. Honestly, using frozen fruit is the best option here because you can bag them individually and just dump them out of a freezer bag into your blender or container as necessary, plus it means not dicking around with ice cubes. Frozen things can be an issue if using a hand mixer (more on that later) so anything to make it easier is good.

Here’s what you do:

Combine ingredients in blender

Blend

Serve

Yeah, that was kind of pointless, wasn’t it? I guess it just demonstrates how easy this actually is. However, especially if you’re using a hand mixer, it can be trickier than it necessarily needs to be. So here’s the notes I’ve figured out to make things easier when using a hand mixer and frozen fruit (I haven’t tried it with fresh because I don’t have an ice tray), and also generally more tasty.

Blending anything frozen is going to make a lot of noise and an equal amount of vibration. If you’re using a hand mixer, that’s going to cause some pain if you’ve got chronic pain issues, RSI, anything like that. To make it easier, put in the frozen fruit first, then add the liquid and sugar (and yoghurt if using it) and then let it sit for a minute or two. It’ll soften the fruit a little bit - not much, but enough to make a difference.

Yoghurt is actually a great addition to this. I’ve been using dairy free vanilla yoghurt and the vanilla comes through as a nice little added flavour touch, so experimenting with different flavours of yoghurt is probably worthwhile.

Honey tends to mix better than sugar, and I put ‘to taste’ because the half-teapoon or so they recommend didn’t make much difference when I was doing specific measurements. Then again, I was using fruit that’s known for being a bit tart (strawberry and mango, respectively - I should try them combined sometime) so your mileage may vary.

Seriously, even if you’re buying your frozen fruit, package it up into 1 cup servings. That way you’ll know how much you have left before you run out, so there’s no surprises of the “I only have enough fruit for half a smoothie” variety.

So there you have it: the smoothies that have been keeping me going on my first week with increased hours. Yep; I’ve been managing well enough on working from home to add five hours to my work week! A little strenuous, but the way things are going right now, if i want to eat properly, extra hours help. Lactose- and gluten-free foods aren’t cheap.

[hindividhaya]

What is Healthy Breakfast ?

Healthy Breakfast

A healthy breakfast is essential for starting your day on the right foot. It provides you with the energy and nutrients your body needs to function properly, and can help improve your overall health and well-being.

A healthy breakfast should include a variety of nutrient-dense foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Whole grains, such as oatmeal, whole wheat toast, and quinoa, provide your body with complex carbohydrates, which are an important source of energy. They also contain fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining good health. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management.

Lean proteins, such as eggs, Greek yogurt, and turkey bacon, are important for maintaining muscle mass and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. They also help to regulate blood sugar levels, which can be especially beneficial for people with diabetes. Healthy fats, such as avocado and nuts, also help to regulate blood sugar levels and provide your body with essential fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good health.

Some examples of healthy breakfast options include:

• Scrambled eggs with spinach and whole grain toast: This breakfast provides you with lean protein from the eggs and whole grains from the toast. The spinach also provides you with vitamins and minerals, such as iron and vitamin K.

• Greek yogurt with berries and a sprinkle of granola: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, and the berries are rich in antioxidants. The granola provides you with whole grains and healthy fats.

• Oatmeal with nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of honey: Oatmeal is a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, and the nuts and seeds provide you with healthy fats and protein. The honey is a natural sweetener that provides a touch of sweetness without the added sugar.

• Smoothie bowl made with yogurt, frozen berries, and spinach: This breakfast provides you with protein from the yogurt and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the berries and spinach. It's also a great way to get in a serving of fruits and vegetables first thing in the morning.

• Avocado toast on whole grain bread with a poached egg: This breakfast provides you with healthy fats from the avocado and whole grains from the bread. The poached egg provides you with lean protein, and the combination of the avocado and egg will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Read More

[shabdchadha]

Important points to keep in mind for living a healthy life.

Remove Refined Food products from your diet.

- Refined food products like refined wheat flour, refined oil, chips, noodles, candies, and other junk food are very harmful for our health. They are linked to many chronic illnesses like inflammatory diseases, fatty liver, diabetes etc. So stop consuming them on a regular basis. Once in while is fine but not daily

Minimise the use of sugar in your diet.

- Sugar tastes very good and once we eat it our tongue wants more, but it is harmful for our bone health and causes diseases like diabetes, obesity, inflammation in our body. So stop consuming sugar and sugary products like candies, cakes, pastries etc. Use healthy sweeteners like jaggery and date powder instead. Stay tuned for Recipes of healthy cakes, sweets etc.

Include a variety of fruits in your diet.

- We should eat atleast 2-3 different types of seasonal fruits daily. You can choose any fruit. Fruits are a combination of taste and health. Fruits alkalis the body and all fruits have different benefits and we will sharing them soon.

Eat more veggies

- Veggies are more nutritious than fruits and should be consumed daily. You can choose any vegetable to include in your diet but consume different veggies the next day.

Meals on time

- Today many people are having late night dinners which is not good for our health, as food can't be digested properly and our sleep also get disturbed. We should eat all our meals on correct time. Dinner should be done around between 7-8 pm or atleast two hours before bed time.

Sleeping on time

- Today there our many people who sleep around 1 or 2 am or late than that but sleeping at a correct time is very important. Our body recover when we sleep and if we sleep to late then our body doesn't get time to recover. Sleeping late can also cause insomnia. So start sleeping before 10 pm.

Excercise

- Today, most of the people are busy in their work and don't excercise daily. Physical activity is very important for our body to be active. Less physical activity or less movement of body is linked to many chronic health conditions. We should have atleast 1-2 hours of excercise or any physical activity like playing any outdoor game such as badminton, cricket etc.

[whichhealthyfoodiseatatnig]

Eating healthy food at night before bed can be a good choice as long as you make mindful selections. The key is to opt for foods that are light, easy to digest, and won't cause discomfort during sleep. Here are some healthy bedtime snack options:

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a popular and nutritious dairy product that has gained widespread acclaim for its many health benefits and versatile culinary uses. It is made by straining regular yogurt to remove most of the whey, resulting in a thicker and creamier texture. Here are some key characteristics and benefits of Greek yogurt:

High Protein Content: Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein, making it a popular choice among those looking to increase their protein intake. It typically contains around twice the protein of regular yogurt, which can aid in muscle maintenance and appetite control.

Probiotics: Many varieties of Greek yogurt contain live probiotic cultures, which support gut health and digestion. These beneficial bacteria can help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the digestive system.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a fresh cheese made from the curds of cow's milk. It is a versatile and nutritious dairy product that has been enjoyed for centuries. Here are some key characteristics and benefits of cottage cheese:

High Protein Content: Cottage cheese is renowned for its high protein content. It is an excellent source of complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair. This makes it a favorite among athletes and those looking to increase their protein intake.

Low in Fat: Cottage cheese comes in various fat content options, including low-fat and non-fat varieties. It's a good choice for individuals looking to maintain a lower-fat diet.

Berries

Berries are small, colorful, and delicious fruits that are not only a treat for the taste buds but also packed with nutrients and health benefits. There are many different types of berries, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cranberries, among others. Here's a look at some of the key features and benefits of berries:

Rich in Antioxidants: Berries are known for their high antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their vibrant colors. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and contribute to overall health.

Low in Calories: Berries are generally low in calories, making them a healthy and guilt-free addition to your diet. They can be a satisfying and sweet option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

Conclusion.

selecting the right healthy food to eat before bed is essential for promoting a good night's sleep and overall well-being. While individual dietary needs and preferences may vary, some key considerations for bedtime snacks include:

Lightness and Digestibility: Opt for foods that are easy to digest, as heavy or greasy foods can lead to discomfort and sleep disturbances.

Balanced Nutrients: A balanced bedtime snack should ideally include a combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote a feeling of fullness.

Electric Lady (woohoo)

[cypressmedic]

Boost Your Health: Enhance Immunity and Lung Strength

In today's health-conscious world, maintaining a strong immune system and robust lung health is more important than ever. The ability to fend off illnesses and breathe effortlessly is a cornerstone of overall well-being. This is where the power of an immunity booster and strategies to strengthen lung capacity come into play, offering a dual approach to enhancing your health and vitality.

The Importance of Immunity Boosters

An immunity booster plays a pivotal role in enhancing the body's natural defence mechanisms. These can include a variety of diets, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments that contribute to a more resilient immune system. Boosting immunity helps the body fight against viral and bacterial infections, reduces susceptibility to colds and other respiratory illnesses, and supports overall health and longevity.

Factors Affecting Respiratory Health

Good lung health is crucial for ensuring that the body gets the oxygen it needs to perform every vital function. Environmental contaminants, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and underlying medical diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can all adversely affect respiratory health. Addressing these factors with proactive respiratory care and lifestyle changes can significantly strengthen lung function and resilience.

Strategies to Enhance Immune and Lung Health

Both respiratory and immune systems depend on a balanced diet high in vitamins and antioxidants. Foods rich in vitamins C, D, and zinc are known to enhance the immune system, while antioxidants from fruits and vegetables help protect lung tissue from the damage of free radicals. Regular physical activity is also crucial; it helps improve lung capacity and immune function by promoting blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which help the body eliminate toxins and waste.

Herbal and Natural Supplements

In addition to diet and exercise, certain herbal supplements and natural remedies have been recognised for their potential to boost immunity and support lung health. Herbs like echinacea, elderberry, and astragalus have properties that may enhance immune response, while supplements like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can help strengthen lung tissue and improve respiratory functions. Before beginning any new supplement program, though, you should see a healthcare professional.

Advanced Approaches to Lung Health and Immunity

Medical technology has advanced such that there are more choices than ever to promote immunological and respiratory health. Techniques such as breathing exercises, controlled exposure to reduced oxygen environments, and even specialised physical therapies are being used to strengthen lung muscles and improve breathing efficiency. Additionally, targeted immunotherapies and vaccines play an essential role in preparing the immune system to fight specific pathogens.

Conclusion

Maintaining robust immune and lung health is a multifaceted endeavour that involves a combination of dietary choices, physical activity, and preventive healthcare. By adopting an immunity booster lifestyle and taking steps to strengthen lung function, individuals can enjoy greater health and vitality. For more information on effective strategies to enhance your respiratory and immune health, visit cypressmedic.com. Together, these practices can provide a solid foundation for a healthier, more active life.

Blog Source Url:

https://cypressmedic.blogspot.com/2024/11/boost-your-health-enhance-immunity-and.html

[bestbakeryindelhi]

Best Bakery in Delhi

Discovering the Best Bakery in Delhi: A Journey Through Sweet and Savory Delights

Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and of course, its food. When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth or indulging in savory snacks, Delhi offers a myriad of options. But if you're searching for the best bakery in Delhi, there are a few gems that stand out from the rest. These bakeries not only serve delicious cakes, pastries, and breads but also provide an experience that makes every visit memorable.

Why Choose the Best Bakery in Delhi?

The term “best” when it comes to bakeries is subjective. What sets the best apart from the rest is their commitment to quality, freshness, and unique flavors. A top-tier bakery doesn’t just offer mouth-watering treats; it also ensures that every item is crafted with care and expertise. Whether you're looking for an indulgent chocolate cake or a freshly baked croissant, the best bakery in Delhi will never disappoint.

Best Bakery in Delhi Known for its delicious variety of cakes, cookies, and pastries, Gulati Bakery is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best bakery in Delhi. Its signature fruit cakes and soft sponge cakes are a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The bakery is a go-to spot for celebrations, with customized cakes for birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions. The soft, melt-in-the-mouth textures of their baked goods, combined with impeccable flavor, have earned them a loyal following over the years.

The rich and decadent cakes, brownies, and cookies are loved by dessert enthusiasts. The Black Forest cake and New York-style cheesecakes are highly recommended. Beyond cakes, their savory snacks, such as quiches and sandwiches, offer a delightful balance to the sweet treats on offer. With its cozy vibe and contemporary décor, it’s a great place to enjoy a casual meal or dessert.

Paul’s, Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj Known for its French flair, Paul’s is a Parisian-style bakery that stands out in Delhi. Located in Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj, this bakery brings the best of European patisserie culture to the capital. From buttery croissants to decadent éclairs and tarts, Paul’s is a haven for those who appreciate fine patisserie. Their fresh breads, made with traditional techniques, are also a major draw for bakery lovers. If you're seeking sophistication in your baked goods, Paul’s is an excellent choice for the best bakery in Delhi.

Baker’s Oven, Pitampura If you’re a fan of rich flavors with a local touch, Baker’s Oven in Pitampura should be on your list. Known for their creamy cheesecakes, puff pastries, and soft cakes, Baker’s Oven has become a favorite among Delhiites. Their attention to detail, combined with quality ingredients, makes them stand out as one of the best bakeries in Delhi. Don’t miss their famous chocolate mousse, which has garnered rave reviews for its velvety texture and deep cocoa flavor.

Conclusion: Where to Find the Best Bakery in Delhi?

Whether you're in the mood for a classic croissant, a rich chocolate cake, or a delicate pastry, Delhi’s bakeries have something to offer everyone. The best bakery in Delhi isn’t just about the products they sell; it’s about the experience of walking into a place where passion and creativity blend in every bite. Whether you visit one of the iconic spots like Wenger's or a trendy new bakery, each of these establishments brings something unique to the table, making them worthy of the title "best bakery in Delhi."

So the next time you find yourself in the capital, treat yourself to some of the finest baked goods in the city – because nothing says love like a fresh, warm pastry straight from the oven!

[brunswickfurfood]

Find the Best Dog Food to Keep Your Pet Happy

Choosing the best food for your dog is essential for keeping them healthy, active, and satisfied. A good diet is about more than just meeting basic nutritional needs—it’s about supporting your dog’s unique preferences, lifestyle, and health requirements. This guide will help you understand what makes for high-quality dog food, from selecting ingredients to addressing specific dietary needs.

1. Look for Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

When it comes to feeding your dog, quality ingredients make all the difference. Opting for nutrient-rich ingredients can help your dog get the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants they need to stay healthy. A good quality dog food typically lists whole protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish as the first ingredient, which ensures that your dog is getting the protein they need for muscle health and energy.

Fruits and vegetables such as carrots, blueberries, and sweet potatoes add beneficial fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support immunity and overall health. Avoid foods with fillers like corn, soy, and wheat, as these ingredients are often less nutritious and can lead to allergies or digestive issues.

2. Understand the Benefits of Single Protein Dog Food

For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, single protein dog food can be an ideal choice. Single protein foods contain only one source of protein, such as chicken or beef, which makes it easier to identify and avoid specific allergens. These foods help reduce the risk of adverse reactions while ensuring that your dog receives essential amino acids for their health.

Single protein dog food options can also benefit dogs with sensitive stomachs by limiting the number of ingredients, making it easier to digest. Always consult your vet if you’re considering a switch to a single-protein diet to ensure it’s the right choice for your dog’s specific needs.

3. Consider Healthy Pet Food for Overall Well-Being

Healthy pet food isn’t just about physical health—it can also improve your dog’s mood, behavior, and energy levels. Dogs fed a balanced, nutritious diet are often more energetic, playful, and maintain a healthy weight. Choosing healthy pet food with high-quality proteins, fats, and carbohydrates can help keep your dog active and engaged.

Look for foods that are labeled as “complete and balanced,” which indicates they meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for dog nutrition. This certification ensures that the food provides all the necessary nutrients to support your dog’s health at different life stages, from puppyhood to senior years.

4. Choose Between Dry, Wet, and Fresh Food Options

The type of food you choose—dry, wet, or fresh—can also impact your dog’s happiness and health. Dry food, or kibble, is convenient, has a long shelf life, and can support dental health by reducing plaque buildup. Wet food, on the other hand, has higher moisture content, which can be beneficial for dogs who need extra hydration or prefer softer textures.

Fresh food options are gaining popularity and offer minimally processed ingredients that are cooked gently to retain nutrients. Some pet owners choose to combine these types to offer variety, though it’s important to ensure a balanced diet across meals. Whatever you choose, be sure it meets your dog’s specific dietary needs and preferences.

5. Adjust for Age and Size

Your dog’s age, size, and activity level should play a big role in choosing their food. Puppies, for example, need higher levels of protein and fat for growth, while senior dogs benefit from lower-calorie options to help maintain a healthy weight. Smaller breeds often have higher metabolisms and may need more calorie-dense food, whereas larger breeds can benefit from food that supports joint health and lean muscle.

Selecting food tailored to your dog’s life stage and size can help them get the right balance of nutrients they need at every stage. Many brands offer formulas for puppies, adults, and seniors, making it easier to find the right match.

6. Read Labels and Avoid Unnecessary Additives

Reading labels can provide insight into the quality of dog food. High-quality dog food should have a clear list of ingredients, with a named protein as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, as these can lead to allergies or irritations. Foods that include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are also more likely to be nutritious and beneficial for overall health.

7. Additions That Enhance Diet Variety

Dogs appreciate variety in their diet, which can be achieved by adding simple, nutritious ingredients to their meals. Some pet owners choose to add natural foods like small amounts of cooked vegetables, lean meats, or fruits to enhance the diet's variety and flavor. However, ensure these additions are safe for dogs, as some foods, like onions, grapes, and chocolate, are toxic to them.

8. Consult a Veterinarian for Personalized Advice

Choosing the best dog food can sometimes require professional advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions, sensitivities, or is on a restricted diet. Your vet can recommend the right food, portion sizes, and any supplements that may benefit your dog’s unique health needs.

Conclusion

Finding the best food for your dog is essential for ensuring their happiness and health. With so many options available, focusing on high-quality ingredients, a balanced diet, and specific needs, like single protein options for sensitive stomachs, can help you make the best choice. By keeping your dog’s diet varied, balanced, and nutritious, you’ll support their well-being and enhance their overall quality of life. Choosing the right healthy pet food not only helps them stay active but also gives them the nutrients they need to thrive