Friday, June 26, 2015

Poor Dentition and Vegetable Choices

A lack of fresh vegetables related to poor dentition, dental disease, mouth ulcers or infections can lead to nutrition deficiencies.

Two years ago, I lost the majority of my teeth and the ability to eat most raw fruits and vegetables. I tolerated ice cream, baby foods, and over-cooked mushy vegetables. I knew I had to make a change.

Below is my AV (any vegetables) Gazpacho. On the left are some of the raw ingredients: bell peppers, scallions, not shown - Romaine lettuce and low sodium tomato juice. To enhance the presentation, I included bell pepper flowers.

“The presentation of food should stimulate the palate, excite the senses, and nourish the body.” -Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, LN, FAND


It's not the same as munching on a fresh carrot or crunching on celery. However, the AV Gazpacho is flavorful, high in fiber, eliminates wasting vegetables and I never make it the same way twice. 

I start off with two cups of low sodium tomato juice (related to high blood pressure) and add one to two cups of chopped vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, cucumber, green beans, kale, lettuce, onions, spinach, squash, and tomatoes. This makes two servings.

The AV Gazpacho will meet your vegetable requirements and appeal to your senses.


Nutrition Information based on the following ingredients:
2 cups Tomato Juice, low sodium
1 cup Bell Peppers, chopped
1/4 cup Scallions, chopped
3/4 
cup Romaine Lettuce, chopped

Blenderize until you achieve a consistency tolerated.
Yield: 2 servings









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