From Garden to Table: The Journey of Zucchini

From Garden to Table: The Journey of Zucchini

Due to the overzealous planting of zucchini, people are asked to drop off baskets of squash on their neighbors’ doorsteps.
Annually, on August 8.

Hot weather brings an abundance of summer squash. Yellow crookneck, straight neck, zucchini, pattypan, and Mediterranean are some of the popular varieties.

Fruits and Veggies More Matters has a list of 10 ways to enjoy zucchini.

The Produce Lady in the following video provides
preparation ideas, cooking tips and recipes for squash.

Sesame Street: Veg Side Story
Sesame Street introduces the zucchini to children
everywhere through music and a delightful story.

National CBD Day What is Jannabis Wellness?

Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RDN, FAND is a Holistic Cannabis Practitioner, Culinary Nutritionist, Cookbook Author, and Speaker.

Prior to her journey as a Holistic Cannabis Practitioner, I followed Janice's work in the field of dietetics and nutrition. She is well known and respected in our profession and her cookbooks and meal planning strategies are very popular. I am a fan of Janice and when she decided to expand her practice to include Jannabis Wellness products - it caught my attention.

I read about her father's relief from pain after using medical marijuana, and I knew I wanted to know more. I have a son who is a quadriplegic with Spastic Cerebral Palsy and suffers pain constantly. Could this be an answer?

I read Janice's extensive References and Resources, and an article in the April 2019 Issue of Today’s Dietitian, Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RDN, describes Cannabis Use for Treating Disease. I decided to contact Janice and ordered PCR Hemp Oil Salve to massage my son's hamstrings.

My son was a bit hesitant about trying the salve, even though I told him it would not make him high. He decided to try it. With continued massage, Jake's hamstrings loosened up. It was not permanent but provided temporary relief.

Janice’s mission is to help others suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, autoimmune disorders, IBD/IBS, and other debilitating conditions. She completed training at the Holistic Cannabis Academy and now advises clients on access, proper cannabinoid ratios, dosing, best consumption methods, and cooking with cannabis in her consulting business, Jannabis Wellness.

Jannabis Wellness products are derived from medicinal hemp (legal nationwide according to the 2018 Federal Farm Bill). View list of products.

I found the literature and research compelling, and recommend the following readings:
1. References and Resources, Jannabis Wellness
2. Cannabis Use for Treating Disease, Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RDN, April 2019 Today’s Dietitian

National Farmers Market Week

We visited a local market in Tamarac, Florida, to celebrate National Farmers' Market Week. The group is known as the Community Farmers Markets of South Florida. 

"As a food photographer, my visual senses came alive; as an explorer of foods, the smells and flavors were enticing; and as a dietitian, my mind raced with the food combinations, satisfying the senses and nutritional needs." Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RD, LN, FAND

Farmer's markets are worldwide and reflect an area's culture and economy. They often feature locally grown produce, meats raised humanely, handmade farmstead cheeses, eggs and poultry from free-range fowl, and heirloom produce.

"Farmers grow the food, talk about how they grew the food, and learn from the shoppers who, in turn, prepare the food for family dinners. The farmers market is where food is both fuel and culture, and thus where we grow healthy communities." - Richard McCarthy, founding President of the Farmers Market Coalition and Executive Director.

The Farmers Market Coalition (FMC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to strengthening farmers' markets for the benefit of farmers, consumers, and communities. 

Twelve Reasons to Visit a Farmers' Market

 Alice Henneman, RD

Food Safety and the Farmers Market

With the number of farmer's markets increasing throughout the country, food safety inspectors are working harder to ensure consumers get safe products when they shop.

Abbey Harding is a food safety inspector for the Michigan Department of Agriculture. Part of her job is to inspect farmer's markets, like the one in Grand Rapids, to ensure vendors comply with current regulations.

An inspector looks at the labeling. Vendors need to specify where their products are grown. Typically, packaged goods vendors must list weights, ingredients, and whether the product requires refrigeration.

"If it's coming from a licensed source, we'd check with license control," Abbey Harding said. Michigan vendors need to be licensed, and if they process food, they may be subjected to inspection at their facility.

Resources.

USDA, Farmers Markets

Community Farmers Markets of South Florida. Current Farmers Markets are located at the following places:

• Plantation Farmers Market, a year-round adventure, every Saturday from 8-2, in Volunteer Park on Sunrise Blvd, between NW 188th Ave and Flamingo Road.
• Tamarac Farmers Marke is also a year-round market, held every Sunday from 9 to 2 on the NW corner of Southgate and University.
• Boynton Beach Farmers Market, year-round every Saturday from 9-2, on the SE corner of Boynton Beach Blvd and Federal Highway.
• Margate Farmers Market is a seasonal market open from November to April.

August, National Sandwich Month - Use Your Creativity

August is National Sandwich Month. The sandwich was named after John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich. During the 1700s, it is said John Montagu created the sandwich because he wanted to eat his meal with one hand.

Resource: Build a Better Sandwich, @Healthyfamprj

 

Greatest Movie Sandwiches

National Root Beer Float Day

A root beer float, also known as a "black cow" is traditionally made with vanilla ice cream and root beer.

From the traditional root beer float to an ice cream treat made with vanilla ice cream and frozen root beer soda, National Root Beer Float Day was a big hit in our home.

We chose a diet root beer soda to avoid excess sugar and limit the calories. The amount of diet root beer is not limited because it has "zero" calories.

Beverage. Make sure you carefully combine the soda and ice cream. The reaction causes bubbles to form and a rapid rise in foam, which is part of the fun and can get messy.  Use 1/4 cup light vanilla ice cream. Add a straw and a spoon and enjoy.

Ices.  Add 1/4 cup light vanilla ice cream to a 4-ounce cup. Slowly pour diet root beer soda on top. Add an ice pop stick (optional). Leave in the freezer overnight.  Serve as an ice pop or with a spoon.

Ice Cubes. Freeze root beer soda in an ice cube tray. Leave in the freezer overnight. Add ice cubes to water, milk, or explore the possibilities.

August 3, National Grab Some Nuts Day

Nuts once considered a high fat, high-calorie food is now being recognized as a Nutritious Snack with essential fatty acids, omega fats, protein, and many vitamins and minerals.

August 3, National Watermelon Day - Food Safety, Nutrition, and Recipes

The National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) is a non-profit organization formed in 1989 by watermelon growers and shippers. Their goal is to increase consumer demand for watermelon through promotion, research, and educational programs. The NWPB has developed marketing programs to boost watermelon sales in supermarkets throughout the U.S. and Canada. Their site contains recipes, nutrition facts, fun games for children, lessons for educators, and information for health professionals and the media.

Watermelon and Food Safety
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before cutting watermelons.

2. Wash the outer surface of the melon with clean running water and dry to remove any dirt. If you purchase a pre-cut piece of watermelon, you should rinse the rind portion in fresh water and dry it.

3. Wash cutting boards, countertops, scoops, knives, and other equipment or utensils with hot water and soap to avoid cross-contamination.

4. If you refrigerate the watermelon after purchasing, be sure to keep the watermelon cool.

5. Always refrigerate watermelon once you have cut into it. Place in a covered container or cover the cut surface with plastic wrap to prevent the melon from becoming mushy.

Nutrition Facts about Watermelon

Watermelon is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C, contains no Trans Fatty Acid, no Cholesterol, very low in sodium, and has only 46 calories in One Cup. Watermelon contains lycopene, an antioxidant which may reduce the risk of cancer.

Watermelon contains about 6% sugar and 92% water by weight. It is a great way to get additional fluids.

Creating Snacks or a 
Light Meal using Watermelon

Watermelon Circles with Feta Cheese and Lentil Salad

Fun with Fruit

Watermelon and Feta Cheese Salad

Selecting a Watermelon

How to Grow Watermelons

Carving Watermelon 

American Family Day The Family Meal Time

Family mealtime is an ageless tradition shared by people all around the world. Eating dinner together keeps the doors of communication open. It's a perfect time to show your children they are your priority. Studies have shown children who eat dinner with their families are less likely to use alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs and more likely to develop good eating habits.
 

Family Dinner

Segment from World Report, April 2009

A recent family study conducted by Brigham Young University, quizzed more than 1500 IBM employees. The results show that families who spend time eating dinner together will encounter less conflict between family and work.

The BYU study appeared in issues of Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, The Wall Street Journal, U.S. News and World Report and Slate magazine. Dr. Jacob expressed the hope for society to value dinner time, and not allow things to interrupt it.

In fact, a multi-national study cited by the marriage and family therapy program at the University of Minnesota and its director, reports family meal time has a more positive influence on emotional and intellectual development in children and teens than sports or additional time in school.

Nutritious Meals for Families on a Budget

My Sunflower's Journey

My First Sunflower

This year, my garden witnessed a little miracle—my very first sunflower bloomed. 

For years, I had tried and failed to grow sunflowers. Each season brought hope, effort, and no sunflower -  but I never gave up. My persistence was rewarded this year with a flower that feels nothing short of magical.

The sunflower stands tall and proud in my garden, its delicate yellow petals radiating against the sun. At its center lies the intricate disc florets—a stunning spiral of tiny flowers holding male and female reproductive organs. These florets will mature into seeds and fruit, completing the sunflower’s life cycle.

One of the most captivating moments was watching the bees dance around the sunflower, drawn to its abundant pollen and nectar. These hardworking pollinators are vital in transferring pollen from one flower to another to ensure the sunflower produces seeds. The synergy between the sunflower and the bees is a beautiful reminder of nature’s interconnectedness and harmony.

This sunflower is more than just a plant; it symbolizes resilience and hope. It taught me that the most extraordinary beauty sometimes comes from the patience to keep trying, even when success feels out of reach.

Every time I look at its vibrant petals and elegant grace, I’m reminded of the magic that perseverance can bring. 

If you’ve ever doubted your ability to grow or achieve something, let this sunflower be your reminder: don’t give up. The bloom is worth the wait.

National Mustard Day - All About Mustard

Mustard is a condiment made from the seeds of a mustard plant (white or yellow mustard; brown or Indian mustard; or black mustard). Whole, ground, cracked, or bruised mustard seeds are mixed with water, salt, lemon juice or other liquids, and sometimes other flavorings and spices to create mustard ranging in color from bright yellow to dark brown. Mustard often has a sharp, pungent flavor.

There are many varieties of mustard, which come in a wide range of strengths and flavors. The basic taste and heat of the mustard are largely determined by seed type, preparation, and ingredients. Black-seed mustard is usually the hottest type. Preparation also plays a key role in the outcome.

The National Mustard Museum, located in Middleton, Wisconsin was founded by Barry Levenson in 1986. The Museum has a collection of more than 5,300 mustards and hundreds of mustard memorabilia.

The Mustard Museum hosts the Annual National Mustard Day festival in Middleton, Wisconsin. The festival is considered the "world's largest condiment party." There will be mustard tastings, mustard-themed games, kid's activities, live music, and special treats. Last year, some 6,000 people turned out and the festival raised more than $3,500 for charity.

World Famous Mustard Museum

The world's foremost collection of mustards and mustard memorabilia
with curator Barry Levenson in Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin.

Culinary Uses

Mustard is often used at the table as a condiment. It is also used as an ingredient in mayonnaise, vinaigrette, marinades, barbecue sauce, and salad dressing. Mustard is popular with hot dogs, pretzels, and sausages. Mustard is also an emulsifier which can stabilize a mixture of two or more unblendable liquids such as oil and water.

Weight Control Tip. Mustard is low in calories and depending on the brand contains a moderate amount of sodium (see table below). Instead of mayonnaise, tartar sauce or other high fat-high caloric dressings try mustard. Use prepared mustard with fish, instead of tartar sauce to create a wonderful flavor that saves 50 calories per tablespoon.

Mustard Nutrition Information

A strong mustard can cause the eyes to water and inflame the nasal passages and throat. Mustard can also cause allergic reactions: since 2005, products in the European Union must be labeled as potential allergens if they contain mustard.

How Mustard is Made
Discovery Channel

Resources:
National Mustard Museum
Mustard (condiment), Wikipedia

August Wellness News

 

Monthly Events

National Breastfeeding Month
National Catfish Month
Get Acquainted with Kiwifruit Month
Eat Dessert First Month
Goat Cheese Month
National Panini Month
National Peach Month
National Sandwich Month
Kid's Eat Right Month
National Water Quality Month
Get Ready for Kindergarten Month
National Back-to-School Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
Children's Eye Health & Safety Month
Happiness Happens Month
Rye Month  

 

Weekly Events

1-7 World Breastfeeding Week
1-7 Simplify Your Life Week
4-10 Exercise with Your Child Week
4-10 National Farmers' Market Week
12-18 National Safe at Home Week
25-24 World Water Week
25-31 Be Kind to Humankind Week
26-30 National Composites Week

Daily

1 World Wide Web Day;  Colorado, 38th state; National Raspberry Cream Pie Day  
2  National Ice Cream Sandwich Day; National Coloring Book Day
3  National Watermelon Day; Grab Some Nuts Day; Mustard Day; Hangover Day; Jamaican Patty Day;  Play Outside Day    
4  National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day; Single Working Women's Day; White Wine Day; American Family Day; Raisin Bran Day
5 National Oyster Day  
6  National Fresh Breath (Halitosis) Day; Root Beer Float Day 
7  Professional Speakers Day;  National Raspberries N’ Cream Day
8  National Frozen Custard Day; Happiness Happens Day; Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbors’ Porch Night; National CBD Day; National Fried Chicken & Waffles Day
9  Intl Day of the World's Indigenous People;  Natl Rice Pudding Day; National Book Lovers Day; Shop Online for Groceries Day 
10  National S'mores Day; Missouri 24th State; Smithsonian Day; National Garage Sale Day   
11 National Sandwich Month; National Raspberry Bombe Day  
12  International Youth Day; National Julienne Fries Day
13  National Filet Mignon Day; National Prosecco Day; Left-Handers Day
14  National Creamsicle Day
15  Relaxation Day;  Julia Child Birthday (1912); National Lemon Meringue Pie Day
16  National Rum Day
17  National Thrift Shop Day; National Vanilla Custard Day; National Nonprofit Day, Honey Bee Day, Chef Appreciation Day  
18  National Ice Cream Pie Day; National Fajita Day; Mail Order Catalog Day
19   UN World Humanitarian Day;  Soft Ice Cream Day; Potato Day
20 Chocolate Pecan Pie Day 
21  Senior Citizen's Day; Hawaii 50th State; National Spumoni Day
22  Pecan Torte Day; Eat a Peach Day; Tooth Fairy Day; Bao Day
23  National Sponge Cake Day; National Cuban Sandwich Day
24  National Waffle Iron Day; National Peach Pie Day
25 National Banana Split Day
26  Women's Equality Day; Cherry Popsicle Day    
27 Pots du Crème Day; Banana Lover's Day
28  National Cherry Turnovers Day; National Red Wine Day
29  Lemon Juice Day;   Chop Suey Day; More Herbs, Less Salt Day
30   National Toasted Marshmallow Day
31  National Trail Mix Day; Eat Outside Day, International Bacon Day



The holidays and events listed in the calendar come from numerous resources, such as:
United States Department of Agriculture; Food and Drug Administration; Presidential Declaration; Federal, State, or City Governments; American Dietetic Association; Food Associations; American Medical Association; Medical Affiliations; Private Organizations and Companies; Retail Promotions. The events have been verified. However, you should confirm the dates before making plans. Some events may vary from one state to another.

Months January  July  February     August March September April October May   November June December

Discover the Wonders of Avocados - From Farm to Table

Avocados offer nearly 20 vitamins and minerals in every serving, including potassium (which helps control blood pressure), lutein (which is good for your eyes), and folate (which is crucial for cell repair and during pregnancy).

Avocados are a good source of B vitamins, which help you fight off disease and infection. They also give you vitamins C and E, plus natural plant chemicals that may help prevent cancer.

Avocados are low in sugar. And they contain fiber, which helps you feel full longer. In one study, people who added a fresh avocado half to their lunch were less interested in eating during the next three hours.

Fat and Calories

Avocados are high in fat. But it's monounsaturated fat, which is a "good" fat that helps lower bad cholesterol, as long as you eat them in moderation. 

Avocados have a lot of calories. The recommended serving size is smaller than you’d expect: 1/5 of a medium avocado (or 1 ounce) is 50 calories.

Recipe: California Avocado Super Summer Wrap Recipe,
Fruits & Veggies— More Matters  

How to Prepare Avocados

Store avocados at room temperature, keeping in mind that they can take 4 to 5 days to ripen. To speed up the ripening process, put them in a paper bag along with an apple or banana. When the outside skins are black or dark purple and yield to gentle pressure, they’re ready to eat or refrigerate.

Wash them before cutting so dirt and bacteria aren’t transferred from the knife onto the pulp.

While guacamole is arguably the most popular way to eat avocado, you can also puree and toss with pasta, substitute for butter or oil in your favorite baked good recipes, or spread or slice onto sandwiches. Try adding avocado to salad, pizza, soup, salsa, eggs, and sandwiches.

When ordering at a restaurant, remember that not all avocado dishes are created equal. Some items -- like avocado fries and avocado egg rolls -- are coated in batter and fried, making them much higher in both calories and fat.

Top Ways to Enjoy Avocados

1. Skip the Mayo! Mash 1/3 an avocado and spread it on your sandwich instead of mayonnaise. Rich in monounsaturated fat, avocados are a healthy substitute for mayonnaise, cream cheese, butter, or sour cream.  

2. Avocado is a deliciously rich, healthy, and filling addition to salads. Just dice and toss!

3. Add some avocado slices to your sandwiches! This tasty fruit adds a delicious flavor but it also adds substance to an otherwise meager concoction. 

4. Enjoy avocado as part of a healthy stir-fry dish.

5. Grab a Spoon. Halve avocados, remove the pit and start spooning. Want a little kick? Add some low-sodium soy sauce in that little dip in the middle.

6. Avocados are perfect in fish and seafood sauces.

7. Halve avocados then use a small ice-cream scoop to fill the little dip in the middle with your favorite chicken, tuna, or ham salad recipe.

8. Mix together one mashed avocado, 1/2 cup of non-instant oatmeal, and one tablespoon of honey. Apply to your face, wait 15 minutes then rinse.

9. Prepare Guacamole 

Allergic to Latex?

If you have a latex allergy, talk to your doctor before adding avocado to your diet. People with a serious allergy to latex may also experience symptoms after eating an avocado.

Resources

Choose Healthy Fats,    #avocado #eatright
WebMD, Everything You Need to Know About Avocados  

Top 10 Ways To Enjoy Avocados, Fruits, and Veggies More Matters