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20 All-American Sandwiches You Need to Sink Your Teeth Into

May 30, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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What’s more quintessentially American than taking two slices of bread and stuffing something delicious in between? The sandwich is a national culinary treasure, with endless regional variations from coast to coast. Here is a definitive list of the 20 most iconic American sandwiches. These are the best of the best – the sandwiches that define local cuisine and have folks lining up around the block. 1. Philly Cheesesteak The cheesesteak is synonymous with the City of Brotherly Love. This messy, beefy masterpiece was invented by Pat Olivieri in the 1930s and has been a Philly icon ever since. (ref) 2. …

7 Box Cake Mix Hacks: Turn Ordinary Desserts Into Bakery-Worthy Treats

May 28, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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Looking to improve your baking skills without spending hours in the kitchen? Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a novice in the kitchen, these box cake mix hacks will inspire you to take your desserts to the next level. So, why settle for ordinary when you can easily create extraordinary treats with just a box of cake mix? 1. Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls By incorporating yeast into the cake mix, you create a soft, fluffy dough that becomes the base for your cinnamon rolls. The addition of a warm, gooey cinnamon filling and a sweet glaze elevates the humble cake …

Hidden Drugs in Your Cup: The Recall of a Popular Herbal Tea

May 27, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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You brew a cup of your favorite herbal tea, expecting natural relief and comfort. But what if that soothing beverage contained hidden dangers? That’s the unsettling reality faced by many consumers following the recent recall of a popular tea product. A Bitter Brew Himalayan Pain Relief Tea, marketed for its natural, medicinal properties, was found to have serious hidden ingredients. Diclofenac, a potent NSAID, can cause heart attacks and strokes, while Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, can lead to adrenal suppression and immune system impairment. This revelation comes after the FDA’s laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of these substances, which are not …

Forget Coffee: 12 Herbal Teas That Boost Your Health & Well-Being

May 27, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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Here’s a fun fact – the word “tea” technically refers to beverages made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant1. The ones listed below (except for green tea) are actually herbal teas or tisanes, which most people don’t realize aren’t true teas. But in everyday language, anything steeped in water is often called “tea,” so the terminology gets blurred. Like true tea leaves though, these herbal teas or tisanes also offer an array of health benefits that you shouldn’t overlook. 1. Chamomile Tea: Your Ticket to Relaxation Feeling stressed out and anxious? Chamomile tea is here to save the …

America Might Say Goodbye to Decaf Coffee: Here’s Why

May 27, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

What if one morning you find that your favorite decaf coffee has vanished from store shelves. It sounds like a nightmare, but this scenario could become a reality for millions of Americans. What’s at stake, and what could this mean for your daily brew? The Problem with Decaf Decaf coffee, the lifeline for those who crave the taste of coffee without the jolt of caffeine, might be facing a major shakeup. The reason? A chemical called methylene chloride, which is commonly used in the decaffeination process, has come under intense scrutiny. This colorless liquid, known for its ability to strip …

Man Spills the Beans on Wood Pulp in Popular Cheeses

May 27, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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Did you know some popular brands of cheeses include fillers like wood pulp? Well, it’s technically called cellulose – an additive derived from wood pulp that prevents cheese from clumping. A recent video¹ exposé by a food enthusiast has gone viral, revealing some unsavory facts about these cheese products. Calling out brands like Kraft, Sargento, and Great Value. What’s the Deal with Wood Pulp in Cheese? Cellulose, often sourced from wood pulp, is a common food additive used in shredded and grated cheeses to prevent clumping and improve texture. While the FDA considers cellulose safe to consume (ref), some consumers …

13 Superfoods That Naturally Banish Parasites

May 22, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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Parasites are more common than most people think, and they can wreak havoc on your body. But fear not! Your kitchen is full of secret weapons to combat these unwelcome guests. Here are 13 foods that have been shown to help kill parasites naturally. 1. Garlic: The Vampire Slayer of Parasites Garlic isn’t just for warding off vampires. Its potent sulfur compounds, like allicin, are effective against various parasites. Studies have shown that garlic can inhibit the growth of parasites like giardia and roundworms. Plus, its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties make it a powerhouse in maintaining overall health. (ref) …

12 Foods That Will Help Make You Smarter

May 22, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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Have you ever wondered if you could boost your brainpower by tweaking your diet? While we can’t promise you’ll turn into Einstein overnight, incorporating certain brain-boosting foods into your meals can help sharpen your memory, improve your focus, and enhance cognitive function. Ready to eat your way to a smarter you? Here are 12 foods that can give your brain a nutritious edge. 1. Blueberries: Tiny Berries, Big Brain Benefits Blueberries are often hailed as a superfood, and for a good reason. Rich in antioxidants, especially flavonoids, blueberries have been shown to enhance memory and cognitive function. Studies have demonstrated …

10 Foods That Could Slow Down Digestion & Cause Discomfort

May 1, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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Ever felt like your digestive system is on a go-slow? Sometimes, the culprit could be right on your plate. While a variety of factors contribute to constipation, your diet plays a pivotal role. Understanding which foods might be gumming up the works can help you make better choices for your gut health. Here’s a look at some common foods that are known to make some people feel constipated, complete with the why and the how and a few surprising facts that might help you keep things moving smoothly. 1. Red Meat Red meat can take center stage in many decadent …

Hooked on Fish? Think Twice Before Dining on These Ocean Dwellers

April 30, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

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When the bounty of the sea is just a menu selection away, it’s easy to forget that not all fish are created equal—especially when it comes to our health and the environment. While fish is celebrated for its nutritional benefits, certain species come with a hefty side of concerns. From mercury levels to environmental impact, let’s dive into the fishy details about which fish might be better left off your plate. 1. King Mackerel King Mackerel is a fish that’s as regal as its name suggests, but its high mercury content might make you think twice about consuming it regularly. …