• Health

    The Benefits of Salt: Discovering the Hidden Power of a Household Staple

    August 13, 2024 - By 

    Salt is a staple in every kitchen, an essential seasoning used in countless dishes. But did you know that this common white crystal does more than just enhance flavor? Salt has a variety of effects that we benefit from daily, often without even realizing it. Let’s dive into the many benefits of salt.

    1. Preserving Food: The Power of Salt

    Salt has been used for centuries as a food preservative. It works by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, preventing food from spoiling. Salt curing and drying methods are just a few examples of how salt’s preserving power has been harnessed over time. Without salt, many of the preserved foods we enjoy today simply wouldn’t exist.

    2. Enhancing Flavor: The Perfect Seasoning

    Adding a pinch of salt to your dish does more than just make it salty—it brings out the natural flavors, making them more pronounced. Salt plays a crucial role in balancing the overall taste of a dish. For example, adding salt to a soup not only enhances the individual ingredients but also elevates the entire flavor profile of the meal.

    3. Maintaining Hydration: Salt’s Role in the Body

    In our bodies, salt (sodium) helps maintain proper fluid balance. Consuming the right amount of salt keeps our body fluids at the correct concentration, ensuring our cells function properly. This is why sports drinks often contain electrolytes, including sodium, to help replenish the body’s salt levels after exercise.

    4. Supporting Muscle Function

    Sodium is essential for the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. As an electrolyte, it aids in muscle contraction and the transmission of nerve impulses, which are critical for physical performance and reflexes.

    5. Managing Blood Pressure: Balancing Salt Intake

    While too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, moderate salt intake is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. In today’s world, where many diets are high in salt, it’s important to be mindful of our salt consumption and strive for a balanced diet.

    6. Other Everyday Uses of Salt

    Salt isn’t just for the kitchen—it has various other uses in everyday life. For instance, a saltwater gargle can help with oral hygiene and soothe a sore throat. Adding salt to a bath can also promote relaxation. And during winter, salt is commonly used to prevent roads from icing over, showcasing its versatility.

    Salt is a valuable part of our diet and daily life, offering numerous health benefits when consumed in the right amounts. By understanding its many uses, we can better appreciate this humble ingredient and make the most of it in our everyday lives.

    At our restaurant, we offer high-quality Greek sea salt for sale by weight. If you’re interested, we invite you to visit us and explore how this exceptional salt can enhance your cooking. We’re confident it will elevate the flavor of your dishes to new heights!

  • Health - vegan food

    Japanese and British Wild Edibles: Types, Benefits, and Cooking Methods

    May 6, 2024 - By 

    Both Japan and the United Kingdom are blessed with rich natural environments, and with the arrival of spring, a variety of wild edibles, or “sansai,” are harvested in each region. In this blog, we will delve into the popular wild edibles found in Japan and the UK, discussing their types, health benefits, and typical cooking methods.

    Japanese Wild Edibles

    1. Fiddlehead Ferns (Tara no Me)
    • Characteristics: Harvested in early spring, these are young shoots known for their distinctive bitterness.
    • Health Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, they help prevent aging and aid in fatigue recovery.
    • Cooking Methods: Commonly made into tempura, they can also be enjoyed simply fried.

    2. Ostrich Fern (Kogomi)

    • Characteristics: Known for their unique texture and mild bitterness.
    • Health Benefits: Abundant in vitamins and minerals, they enhance immune function and skin health.
    • Cooking Methods: After removing the bitterness, they are often used in boiled dishes or as a side dish.

    3. Udo

    • Characteristics: A springtime wild edible with a distinctive aroma and a crunchy texture.
    • Health Benefits: Contains anti-inflammatory properties and is helpful for spring allergy relief.
    • Cooking Methods: Often eaten raw in salads or used in vinegar dishes and stir-fries.

    British Wild Edibles

    1. Wild Garlic
    • Characteristics: Found under forest canopies, these leaves have a garlic-like aroma.
    • Health Benefits: Antimicrobial properties help prevent hypertension and boost immune function.
    • Cooking Methods: Used fresh in salads, or to flavor pesto and soups.

    2. Nettle

    • Characteristics: Although the plant has stinging hairs, once boiled, it becomes harmless and is highly nutritious.
    • Health Benefits: Rich in iron and vitamins, nettles have anti-inflammatory properties.
    • Cooking Methods: Used in soups, herbal teas, and risottos.

    3. Dandelion

    • Characteristics: Ubiquitous and edible from leaf to flower.
    • Health Benefits: Promotes diuresis, aids digestion, and supports liver function.
    • Cooking Methods: Young leaves are used in salads, while the roots can be cooked or used as a coffee substitute.

    These wild edibles reflect the natural environments and cultural heritage of their respective regions, playing an essential role in traditional cuisine and health maintenance. With the arrival of spring, embracing these wild edibles in cooking allows us to experience the changing of the seasons.

  • Health - vegan food

    Embracing a Vegan Lifestyle with Mushrooms

    April 22, 2024 - By 

    Health and Nutrition Benefits

    Mushrooms are a cornerstone of vegan cuisine, known for their rich nutritional content. Despite being low in calories, mushrooms are packed with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin D, B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants. These nutrients are often difficult to obtain from a vegan diet alone, making mushrooms a valuable addition for maintaining nutritional balance.

    Umami Flavor and Culinary Applications

    The umami taste in mushrooms, primarily due to their high glutamic acid content, greatly enhances the depth of flavor in vegan dishes. Using varieties like shiitake and maitake in broths or as soup bases can enrich the overall flavor profile, providing a satisfying culinary experience without relying on meat or fish.

    Recipe Suggestions

    • Mushroom and Vegetable Stir-fry: Utilize oyster or shimeji mushrooms stir-fried with a colorful array of vegetables, enhanced with garlic and ginger for added flavor.
    • Mushroom Soup: Creamy soups made with maitake or enoki mushrooms, fortified with coconut milk for a vegan twist, offer both nutrition and warmth.
    • Mushroom Risotto: A simple yet elegant dish using shiitake mushrooms, perfect for entertaining guests.

    Popular Mushrooms Available in the UK

    The UK offers a diverse range of mushrooms, readily available at supermarkets and specialty stores:

    • Button Mushrooms: The most common type, versatile for various dishes.
    • Porcini: Known for enhancing flavor when dried, ideal for risottos and pasta.
    • Enoki: Characterized by their long stems and small caps, perfect raw in salads and soups.
    • Shiitake: Meaty and flavorful, essential in Asian cuisine.
    • Maitake: Also known as Hen of the Woods, believed to support immune health.
    • Oyster Mushrooms: Thin and delicate, suitable for a wide range of dishes.

    These mushrooms are accessible year-round, with locally sourced varieties offering freshness that enhances any vegan meal. Incorporating these mushrooms into daily meals can enrich your diet with essential nutrients and flavors, making your vegan lifestyle more enjoyable and fulfilling.

  • Health

    Breathing techniques

    November 22, 2023 - By 

    Hello! Today, I’d like to talk about breathing techniques.

    Back when I was playing football, my father often told me to master breathing techniques. Recently, these techniques have been featured in manga like “Demon Slayer,” but in the East, they have been known for their various effects for quite some time.

    History of Breathing Techniques

    Breathing techniques have been practised in various cultures since ancient times. Particularly in Yoga in India and Qigong in China, these techniques have been essential for mental calmness and physical balance. In Western medicine, they’re recognised for reducing stress, managing anxiety, and improving sleep.

    Types of Breathing Techniques

    1. Diaphragmatic Breathing

       – Method: Breathe deeply using the abdomen in a relaxed posture.

       – Benefits: Relaxation, stress reduction, improved digestion.

    2. Chest Breathing

       – Method: Expand the lungs by breathing through the chest.

       – Benefits: Increased concentration, short-term energy boost.

    3. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

       – Method: Inhale through one nostril and exhale through the other, alternating between the two.

       – Benefits: Mental and physical balance, relaxation, clarity of mind.

    4. Viloma Breathing

       – Method: Inhale in stages, pausing between each breath.

       – Benefits: Mental stability, deep relaxation, autonomic nervous system regulation.

    5. Kapalabhati (Breath of Fire)

       – Method: Rapid, short breaths using the abdominal muscles.

       – Benefits: Activation of energy, internal cleansing, strengthened respiratory system.

    6. 4-7-8 Breathing Technique

       – Method: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, then exhale for 8 seconds.

       – Benefits: Relaxation, improved sleep, stress management.

    7. Lion’s Breath (Simhasana Pranayama)

       – Method: Open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and exhale forcefully.

       – Benefits: Relaxation of throat and facial muscles, release of stress.

    Benefits of Breathing Techniques

    – Stress Reduction: Calms the autonomic nervous system, providing a sense of relaxation.

    – Improved Concentration: Settles the mind, enhancing focus.

    – Physical Health: Better blood circulation and increased oxygen supply, beneficial for overall health.

    – Improved Sleep Quality: The relaxing effect aids in enhancing sleep quality.

    Breathing techniques don’t require any initial investment as they solely involve your body, making them accessible to start immediately. Finding a technique that suits you can greatly improve both your physical and mental well-being.

  • Health

    The Charm and Benefits of Moxibustion: My Experience and Its Practice in the UK

    October 25, 2023 - By 

    Hello, everyone! Today, I’d like to delve into a somewhat special topic – “moxibustion.” I’d love to explore the allure, the benefits, and the practice of this traditional treatment in the UK, which I’ve personally experienced in the past.

    What is Moxibustion?

    Moxibustion is a treatment method that has been handed down from ancient times in China and Japan. It involves warming specific parts of the body or meridians (acupuncture points) using fire, aiming to adjust the flow of energy within the body. Just hearing about it gives a sense of warmth, doesn’t it?

    My Personal Experience

    Interestingly, I used to receive moxibustion treatments annually until a few years ago. The method I experienced is called “direct moxibustion.” It involves placing the ash from burned mugwort on the skin and placing the moxibustion on top. It felt as if vitality was springing up from within my body, along with the warmth.

    Key Benefits of Moxibustion

    1. Improved blood circulation

    2. Muscle relaxation

    3. Boosted immunity

    4. Autonomic nerve balance

    5. Pain relief

    6. Enhanced digestive function

    However, the effects can vary from person to person. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a specialist before undergoing treatment.

    Moxibustion in the UK

    Surprisingly, moxibustion can also be experienced in the UK! It’s garnering attention as traditional Oriental medicine and a part of complementary and alternative treatments. You can receive moxibustion treatments from acupuncturists and clinics in the UK. Notably, the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) has set standards and guidelines to ensure high-quality treatment.

    In conclusion, moxibustion is a wonderful treatment that offers warmth and heals both the mind and body. If you’re intrigued, I highly recommend giving it a try!

    Until next time!

  • Health

    Fasting

    September 13, 2023 - By 

    Hello!

    Today, I want to discuss fasting. I fast once or twice a year. I don’t have a fixed schedule for it, but I choose to fast when I feel my body is sluggish or when I need to focus intensely on something. Based on my experience, fasting makes me feel lighter, improves my concentration, and it seems to slow down the passage of time.

    What are the benefits of fasting?

    1. Weight loss: Limiting caloric intake through fasting can aid in short-term weight management.

    2. Improved insulin sensitivity: Enhanced insulin function can potentially reduce the risk of diabetes.

    3. Promotion of cellular autophagy: This is akin to a “deep cleaning” for cells. It helps remove old and unnecessary cellular components while facilitating the creation of new ones.

    4. Contribution to cardiovascular health: Factors that support the health of the heart and blood vessels, such as blood pressure control and cholesterol improvement, are expected.

    5. Enhanced brain health: It’s believed to stimulate brain activity and promote the growth of nerve cells.

    6. Reduction in inflammation: By decreasing inflammation within the body, there’s potential to reduce the risk of various diseases.

    Recommended foods after fasting

    The post-fast meal is crucial. Suddenly consuming a large or spicy meal can strain the digestive system. Here are some food suggestions suitable for post-fasting:

    1. Vegetable soup: Low-salt vegetable soups are gentle on the stomach and also provide nutrients.

    2. Fermented foods: Products like yogurt, natto, and miso containing lactic acid bacteria support gut health.

    3. Rice dishes or porridge: These are easy to digest and suitable for initial meals after fasting.

    4. Steamed vegetables: Softly cooked veggies offer dietary fiber and nutrients.

    5. Fruits: Soft fruits or smoothies are good for vitamins and minerals intake, but be cautious with high-sugar fruits.

    6. Proteins: Tofu aids in muscle recovery after fasting.

    It’s essential to pay attention to the quantity and choice of food after fasting. It’s advisable to start with small portions and gradually increase. Also, it’s recommended to avoid high-fat, sugary, spicy foods, and caffeinated beverages.

    Before attempting to fast, it’s strongly recommended to seek advice from doctors or nutrition specialists. Depending on the fasting method, duration, and individual health, the appropriate post-fast meal may vary. Fasting isn’t suitable for everyone and needs caution.

    Conclusion

    Many people embrace fasting for its numerous health benefits. However, to maximize its effects, a proper approach is essential. The meals before and after fasting and health management during the fasting period are keys. Above all, it’s crucial to listen to your body and practice fasting safely. Health is a lifelong treasure. By understanding and facing your body’s needs, you can lead a more fulfilling life.