February 7, 2011
I love to try new foods. I particularly like spices. I like the smell of ground cloves and cinnamon…I love a fresh tomato out of the garden. I love peppers and grow several kinds each summer. I love the smell of fresh herbs and grow them as well. I dry oregano for use in my own cooking and to give as gifts. And as luck would have it, these things turn out to be good for you…
Research links consuming cinnamon to improved glucose levels and less likelihood of diabetes, as well as improved cholesterol [http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/26/12/3215.abstract]. Dried oregano works as an antioxidant… Cloves may prompt recall…
One of the graduate students in our health communication program brought me a gift when she returned from Korea after the break–black bean powder. .. 
I love black beans, especially when they have been cooked with some of the spices I like best and served with tortillas. I also have experimented with making black bean brownies… But I hadn’t heard of black bean powder. It provides a very easy way to add protein to a meal, even breakfast. Add to a glass of milk with a little honey and–presto–a healthy breakfast or other time power drink. Make your own black bean powder [http://www.soy-beans.org/soy-powder.html].
It’s fun to talk with friends and family about good food… and to make and share it… especially when you know it is good for your health, too.
