Pay the Farmer, Not the Pharmacy
By: Meera & Ashok Vasudevan
Language: en-us
Categories: Health, Fitness, Nutrition, Business, Science, Nature
Meera & Ashok Vasudevan bring 50+ years of experience as leaders in the Plant-based & Natural Food industry. Their entrepreneurial journey continues with the recent acquisition of 2 heritage brands- Annapurna & Captain CookIn this timely podcast series titled "Pay the farmer, Not the Pharmacy" they show you how to unleash the magic in your kitchen with evidence-based tips & tricks that improve digestion, enhance gut health, build immunity and provide simple solutions to affordable wellness. Pay the Farmer, Not the pharmacy. Brought to you by CSAW, the Centre for the Spread of Affordable Wellness. Also, included are other talks, interviews and discussions of Ashok Vasudevan o...
Episodes
Break the Inflammation Cycle, Part 1: The Trigger — Why Stress Hijacks Your Cravings
Dec 15, 2025Share your thoughts
Ever wonder why a stressful day ends with you elbow-deep in a bag of chips? It's not weakness—it's biology. In this first episode of our 4-part series "Break the Inflammation Cycle," Ashok and Meera break down the cortisol-craving connection and why your brain treats a work deadline like a saber-toothed tiger attack.
We explore how chronic stress rewires your gut bacteria, tanks your nutrient absorption, and sets the stage for inflammation. But here's the good news: the right foods can interrupt the cycle before it spirals.
This episode covers: th...
Duration: 00:05:32The Sunshine Deficiency: Why Gen Z Is Ditching Pills for Real Food
Dec 08, 2025Share your thoughts
In this episode of "Pay the Farmer, Not the Pharmacy," hosts Meera and Ashok dive into a surprising health crisis affecting Gen Z: a massive vitamin D deficiency that's leaving 78% of young adults drained, foggy, and fighting weaker immune systems. But here's the twist—instead of reaching for supplement bottles, Gen Z is getting smart about functional foods.
Discover why those tiny vitamin D pills aren't cutting it, how kombucha and kimchi are becoming wellness warriors, and why your diet should be a harmony, not a solo act. From adaptogens that crush st...
Duration: 00:04:11Seasonal Healing Rhythms. Autumn Foods
Dec 01, 2025Share your thoughts
🍂 Episode 3 of Seasonal Healing Rhythms is here!
Join hosts Meera and Ashok Vasudevan as they explore "Autumn Foods: Nature's Immunity Arsenal" - how fall's harvest provides exactly what you need to prepare for winter and strengthen your body's defenses.
Why Autumn Foods Build Immunity: Ever notice how root vegetables, squashes, and warming spices naturally appeal as weather cools? These aren't random cravings - autumn foods are packed with immune-supporting compounds that prepare your body for cold and flu season.
Autumn's Immune-Building Pharmacy: Beta-carotene-rich orange veg...
Duration: 00:07:45Seasonal Healing Rhythms. Summer Foods: Nature's Air Conditioning System
Nov 24, 2025Share your thoughts
🌞 Episode 2 of Seasonal Healing Rhythms is here!
Join hosts Meera and Ashok Vasudevan as they explore "Summer Foods: Nature's Air Conditioning System" - how Asian and tropical cultures mastered internal cooling through food science, long before electricity existed.
Why Summer Foods Cool You Down: Traditional medicine systems from Ayurveda to Traditional Chinese Medicine classified foods by their thermal properties. These aren't just theories - modern science validates how certain foods actually lower core body temperature through specific biochemical mechanisms.
Summer's Natural Cooling System: High-water con...
Duration: 00:07:24Seasonal Healing Rhythms. Spring Awakening
Nov 17, 2025Share your thoughts
Welcome to our new series: Seasonal Healing Rhythms!
Join hosts Meera and Ashok Vasudevan as they explore how eating with nature's calendar provides exactly what your body needs, when it needs it. First up: "Spring Awakening: Nature's Green Reset Button!"
Why Spring Makes You Crave Greens: Ever notice how you naturally want lighter, fresher foods as winter ends? Your body isn't being random - it's seeking the bitter, green medicines that support your liver after months of heavy winter eating.
Spring's Natural Pharmacy: Dandelion...
Duration: 00:07:24Kitchen Balance: Cracking the Omega Code
Oct 23, 2025Share your thoughts
🧩 The great fat puzzle solved! Why inflammation runs wild in modern bodies.
Join hosts Meera and Ashok Vasudevan as they crack "The Omega Mystery" - how the delicate balance of essential fats in our diet got completely flipped over the past century.
The Great Imbalance: A century ago, our omega-6 to omega-3 ratio was a healthy 4:1. Today it's a staggering 20:1! This dramatic shift toward inflammatory fats while omega-3s disappeared from our plates is connected to widespread inflammation issues.
What Caused the Flip:...
Duration: 00:06:13The Fiber Vanishing Act: Where Did All the Fiber Go?
Oct 21, 2025Share your thoughts
🌾 The great fiber mystery solved! Where did all the digestive magic go?
Join hosts Meera and Ashok Vasudevan as they uncover "The Fiber Vanishing Act" - how our great-grandmothers effortlessly got 35-50 grams of fiber daily while we struggle to reach 15 grams today.
The Great Disappearance: When grains got "refined," we stripped away 80% of their fiber. White flour, white rice, and fruit juices removed the very thing that kept our ancestors' digestive systems humming perfectly.
Why Fiber Vanished: Modern food processing prioritized shelf-life, soft tex...
Duration: 00:06:39The Vitamin Vanishing Act: What Happened to Our Food's Nutrition?
Oct 21, 2025Share your thoughts
🌱 Your food isn't what your grandmother ate - and now we know why!
Join hosts Meera and Ashok Vasudevan as they uncover "The Vitamin Vanishing Act" - how modern agriculture traded nutrition for productivity, and what you can do about it in your own kitchen.
What Happened: Over the past 70 years, many fruits and vegetables have lost significant amounts of key nutrients. The focus on fast-growing, high-yielding, good looking, travel ready varieties during the Green Revolution prioritized appearance and shelf-life over nutritional quality.
Why Your Kitc...
Duration: 00:07:25The Micronutrient Detective - "The Case of the Anxious Magnesium Thief"
Oct 20, 2025Share your thoughts
Think your anxiety might actually be a mineral deficiency in disguise? In this first episode of our new "Micronutrient Detective" series, hosts Ashok Vasudevan and Meera crack the case of why so many people feel anxious, can't sleep, and get muscle cramps despite eating "healthy" foods.
Discover why your spinach salad might be working against you (and how a simple citrus hack can fix it), which everyday habits are stealing your calm, and why pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate might be better than meditation apps for some people.
Join us...
Duration: 00:04:33Food Forensics - "The Case of the Nutrient-Robbed Tomato"
Oct 20, 2025Share your thoughts
🕵️♀️ Welcome to Food Forensics - In this eye-opening episode, hosts Ashok Vasudevan and Meera expose the nutritional heist that's been happening right under our noses. Did you know today's tomato has 62% less calcium and 30% less vitamin C than the one your grandparents ate?
Join our forensic investigation as we uncover the three culprits behind this nutrient robbery: soil depletion, speed breeding, and long-distance transport. But don't worry - we've got the evidence AND the solution!
Discover why that perfect supermarket tomato tastes like cardboard, how heirloom varieties pack 3x more nutrients...
Duration: 00:06:02Food Forensics - "The Liquid Gold Heist"
Oct 20, 2025Share your thoughts
🕵️♀️🕵️♂️
Join detective duo Meera and Ashok Vasudevan as they investigate "The Liquid Gold Heist" - how the world's most precious traditional oils were systematically stolen from our kitchens and replaced with industrial counterfeits!
From Mediterranean olive groves to Indian village presses, traditional oils worth their weight in gold were replaced by chemically extracted impostors. Discover how margarine (one molecule away from plastic!) convinced doctors it was healthier than butter, and how "vanaspati" stole the throne from sacred ghee.
We expose the 50-year treasure theft that replaced:
· Golden ghee with hydrogenat...
Duration: 00:07:24Food Forensics: The Great Grain Robbery - A Global Investigation"
Oct 14, 2025Share your thoughts
🕵️♂️🕵️♀️Join hosts Meera and Ashok Vasudevan in our biggest Food Forensics investigation yet - "The Great Grain Robbery." From Wonder Bread in Chicago to instant ramen in Singapore to maida rotis in Mumbai, the same nutritional heist has devastated grains worldwide!
Discover the shocking truth: modern grain processing removes 22 essential nutrients, then adds back just 4 synthetic vitamins and calls it "enriched." It's like someone stealing your entire wallet and giving you back $4!
We expose how 95% of vitamin B6, 85% of magnesium, and 78% of fiber get systematically stripped from your daily bread, noodles, and rice. But...
Duration: 00:06:38Sleep Better, Eat Smarter. How your diet powers your Zzzzs.
Aug 18, 2025Share your thoughts
Discover how the foods you eat can dramatically improve your sleep! In this lively episode of “Pay the Farmer, Not the Pharmacy,” Meera and Ashok Vasudevan reveal the surprising science behind nutrition and sleep—from melatonin-rich kiwis and cherries to the dangers of late-night snacks. Learn actionable hacks and tasty bedtime rituals that nourish your body and set you up for deep, natural rest—all while supporting your local farmers, not the pharmacy aisle. Listen in for easy tips that turn your kitchen into your best sleep aid!
Thanks for tuning in to "Pay...
Duration: 00:05:49From Cane to Stevia: Decoding Sweet Choices
Aug 11, 2025Share your thoughts
Dive into the science (and surprises) behind what sweetens your day! Hosts Meera and Ashok debunk common myths about sugar, jaggery, honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, stevia, monk fruit—and even artificial sweeteners. With real research, playful banter, and bite-sized health advice, each episode asks: What’s really healthier, and what’s just hype? Tune in to make smarter, tastier choices—without giving up on flavor or fun.
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Duration: 00:06:38YES- we can reverse Type 2 Diabetes.
Jul 28, 2025Share your thoughts
Can you truly reverse Type 2 diabetes with smart food choices and regular exercise? On this episode of Pay The Farmer Not The Pharmacy, Meera and Ashok go beyond calorie counting to reveal what really works for diabetes control and even reversal. They break down:
Why where your calories come from is more important than the numbersThe proven 3-point mantra: Eat less, eat right, and work out moreHow liver and pancreas fat play a key role in blood sugar controlThe difference between Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes—plus practical management tips for eachAffordable, delicious ‘supe... Duration: 00:05:31Grains of Truth: The Real Story Behind Gluten
Jul 22, 2025Share your thoughts
In this episode of Pay The Farmer Not The Pharmacy, Meera and Ashok dive deep into the gluten craze sweeping kitchens and conversations everywhere. Is gluten truly the villain many claim it to be, or just misunderstood? Together, they:
Explain what gluten really is and its crucial role in making our favorite breads, rotis, and more deliciously chewy.Break down the big difference between Celiac disease and gluten intolerance—why one's an autoimmune disorder with serious consequences, and the other mostly impacts digestive comfort.Bust myths about ancient versus modern wheat and highlight th... Duration: 00:04:36Glycemic Index vs. Glycemic Load: The Speedometer and Odometer of Your Blood Sugar
Jun 30, 2025Share your thoughts
Confused about Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL)? You’re not alone! In this zippy, science-backed episode, Meera and Ashok break down the difference between GI and GL using a fun car analogy—think of GI as your blood sugar’s speedometer and GL as the odometer. Discover why both matter for diabetics, pre-diabetics, and anyone who wants steady energy and better health. With juicy examples like watermelon and dates, you’ll learn how to calculate GL in plain English and math, and get practical tips for smarter eating. Tune in and find out how...
Duration: 00:05:16Marrakesh Magic: Spices, Tea, and Timeless Health
Jun 23, 2025Share your thoughts
Join Ashok and Meera as they explore the vibrant markets and timeless kitchens of Marrakesh, Morocco, uncovering the secrets behind the city’s radiant health and joyful living. Discover how Marrakesh’s people thrive on fresh, locally grown vegetables, legumes, and heart-healthy oils, all brought to life with an array of spices like saffron, ras el hanout, and condiments such as harissa and argan oil. Savor the ritual of Moroccan mint tea, more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of hospitality and well-being. Packed with science, stories, and practical tips, this episode reveals...
Duration: 00:07:02The Jab vs. The Plate: Can GLP-1 Drugs Like Ozempic Outdo Eating Well?
Jun 02, 2025Share your thoughts
Are GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro really the miracle jabs for a longer, healthier life-or is there a smarter, tastier way to get the same benefits? Join Meera and Ashok as they break down the latest science from The Times UK, exploring how these weight-loss drugs are being hailed as game-changers for heart health, strokes, and aging itself. But before you roll up your sleeve, get the inside scoop on why eating less and eating better might be the ultimate prescription. Plus: a sassy quiz, calorie hacks, and practical tips to boost nutrition...
Duration: 00:06:32Zymology: The Fun Side of Fermentation
May 26, 2025Share your thoughts
Unlock the tangy secrets of zymology-the science of fermentation! Join Meera and Ashok as they take you on a lively, science-packed journey from ancient food traditions to your modern kitchen. Discover how fermented favorites like sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and pickled veggies not only tickle your taste buds but also supercharge your gut health. Learn why trillions of friendly bacteria are your body’s best friends, and get simple tips to add more zing (and wellness) to your plate. Tune in for a delicious blend of history, science, and practical advice-because it’s time to pay...
Duration: 00:04:15From Buzzwords to Better Health: What Natural & Organic Really Mean
May 22, 2025Share your thoughts
Are “natural” foods really as wholesome as they sound? What makes organic the gold standard for your health and the planet? Join Ashok and Meera, live from the stunning Batu Batu Island at the Unreasonable accelerator retreat, as they dish out the science, the sass, and the truth about what’s in your food. In this special episode, we break down the difference between natural and organic foods, reveal the surprising number of chemicals allowed in our food supply, and spotlight the entrepreneurs who are changing the game for good. Plus, a candid interview with t...
Duration: 00:07:40Butterfly Boss: Master Your Thyroid Naturally
May 19, 2025Share your thoughts
Is your energy tank running low, or are you feeling way too wired? Your thyroid might be trying to tell you something! Join Meera & Ashok on this episode of “Pay the Farmer, Not the Pharmacy” as they serve up fast-paced, science-backed hacks for keeping your thyroid happy-whether it’s in slow-mo (hypothyroidism) or on overdrive (hyperthyroidism). Discover why women, foodies, and wellness warriors need to pay attention, which foods are thyroid superheroes, and how a sprinkle of iodized salt (or skipping it!) can make all the difference. Fun, sassy, and packed with practical takeaways-this episod...
Duration: 00:05:13Fresh & Local: The Power of Seasonal Eating
May 12, 2025Share your thoughts
Ever wondered why that summer tomato tastes like sunshine, but the winter one tastes like cardboard? In this lively episode of Pay the Farmer, Not the Pharmacy, Meera and Ashok dig into the science and joy of seasonal eating. Discover how choosing fruits and veggies at their peak not only packs more flavor and nutrition into your meals, but also saves you money and supports local farmers. They’ll share easy supermarket tips for spotting what’s in season, bust some myths about eating local, and recommend global apps to help you shop smarter wher...
Duration: 00:04:49Liquid Life: The Unsung Power of Water
May 05, 2025Share your thoughts
In this refreshing episode of "We Are What We Eat," Meera and Ashok dive deep into the science and secrets of water-the most essential, yet most overlooked, ingredient in our wellness journey. From how much to drink and when, to the truth about alkaline water and the best temperature for your morning glass, this fast-paced, fact-packed conversation will quench your curiosity and leave you with practical hydration hacks. Whether you’re a hydration hero or a water forgetter, tune in to discover why water truly is life-and how to make every sip count!
...
Duration: 00:05:09B-ing Plant-Based: Power Up with Plant Vitamin B!
Apr 21, 2025Share your thoughts
Ditch the pills and dig into the delicious world of plant-based Vitamin B! Join Meera and Ashok as they explore the best veggie sources for this essential nutrient family. Discover which leafy greens, legumes, and more can keep your energy levels soaring and your health thriving, all while supporting sustainable farming. Are you ready to B-lieve in the power of plants?
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Duration: 00:04:05Microgreens- Nutritional Ninjas of the Plant Kingdom
Apr 14, 2025Share your thoughts
Join Meera and Ashok on Pay the Farmer, Not the Pharmacy as they dive into the stealthy world of microgreens—those tiny greens that pack a nutritional punch. From boosting glucose uptake to enhancing brain health, microgreens are the unsung heroes of the plant kingdom. We explore the science behind their superpowers, discuss how to grow them at home, and share tips on how to add them to your meals for maximum impact. Whether you're a health enthusiast or just curious about the latest superfood trends, this episode is for you. So, get ready to...
Duration: 00:05:01"Electrolyte Harmony: Balancing Sodium and Potassium for Better Health
Apr 07, 2025Share your thoughts
Join Meera and Ashok on Pay the Farmer, Not the Pharmacy as they dive into the fascinating world of sodium and potassium—two electrolytes that keep your body running smoothly. Discover how to balance these essential minerals through simple dietary changes, using foods like bananas, bok choy, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash. Learn how to cut back on sodium and boost your potassium intake naturally, without relying on supplements or medications. Tune in for actionable tips and a healthier you!
Keywords: Potassium, Sodium, Electrolytes, Healthy Eating, Affordable Wellness, Nutrition
Thanks fo...
Duration: 00:05:00Body Fat, BMI, Visceral Fat & Nutrition
Mar 31, 2025Share your thoughts
This episode dives into the world of body fat, BMI, and visceral fat and their link to nutrition. Explains why BMI ( Body mass Index) is a bit rudimentary as a health indicator and why visceral fat needs to be better understood and managed. Keeping our diets nutrient dense and calorie light, bringing in more whole grains in keeping processed foods out are all good ways to unleash the magic in our kitchens.
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Duration: 00:04:24Cholesterol, Triglycerides & Nutririon
Mar 24, 2025Share your thoughts
This episode is tackling a topic close to many hearts – quite literally! it's talking about cholesterol and its often-misunderstood cousin, triglycerides, who are like siblings in a Lipid family. Maybe statins are the answer for some, but your kitchen too is a veritable pharmacy.
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Duration: 00:05:44Mental Health, Nutrition, and the Blood Brain Barrier
Mar 18, 2025Share your thoughts
The connection between nutrition, mental health, and the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a complex and fascinating area of research that highlights the importance of diet in maintaining overall brain health and psychological well-being.
The food we eat directly affects our brain function and mood. Certain nutrients are crucial for producing neurotransmitters, which regulate our mood. A balanced diet can help control inflammation, resulting in better mental health..
A healthy gut microbiome can also positively influence our brain function and mental well-being given the strong gut-brain axis. So guy nutrition is...
Duration: 00:05:04Diabetes & Nutrition- A quick Primer
Mar 10, 2025Share your thoughts
We all know the Diabetes management triangle - Medication, Lifestyle, and Nutrition. Instead of talking about Ozempic or cardio, in this episode Meera & Ashok dive fork-first into nutrition & its importance in diabetes management. The key message is that nutritional management of Diabetes is highly personalized. What works for you need not for someone else. So if you are diabetic or pre-diabetic its best to monitor your glucose like you're keeping tabs on your favorite sports team's score. And when you visit your doc, go in armed with knowledge about how different foods affect YOUR b...
Duration: 00:05:04Zinc for Immunity: Boosting Your Defenses Through Food
Mar 03, 2025Share your thoughts
Zinc is crucial for building immunity and is readily available in foods like spinach, lentils, chickpeas, and sunflower seeds. Consuming just 8-12 mg daily can be beneficial. It’s recommended to obtain zinc from these dietary sources rather than supplements, as they provide the necessary amount without the risk of overconsumption.
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Duration: 00:05:03Unlock the Power of Antioxidants: Our bodies' frontline soldiers
Feb 24, 2025Share your thoughts
In this episode Meera & Ashok discuss Antioxidants, heroic compounds that neutralize the impact of villains - the free radicals, or unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA in our body. This process helps protect the body from oxidative stress, which is linked to various diseases and aging.
Luckily, many food groups including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains and lentils are good sources of antioxidants.
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Duration: 00:05:04The (Ethical) Taste of Success- An Interview
Feb 18, 2025Share your thoughts
Ashok Vasudevan's Interview with Julia Taylor Kennedy from the Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs in New York in 2011. A wide ranging discussion on entrepreneurship, ethics & values in business, of sustainability, and a journey of the Natural Food company TastytBite, co-founded by Ashok and his wife Meera Vasudevan.
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#NutritionTips Duration: 00:29:57
Vegetable Rainbow- Eat the colors for good health
Feb 04, 2025Share your thoughts
We know about vitamins, minerals and all the phytonutrient goodness in them but we worry about lack of protein. Don’t. Edamame, Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, Spinach, Avocado, Asparagus and even the delectable Potatoes are good examples of proteins in vegetables. Eat the colors of the vegetable rainbow. There is a pot of gold at the end of it!
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... Duration: 00:05:03Diabetes Control. Perhaps Reversal.
Jan 28, 2025Share your thoughts
Welcome to this episode "Tackling, Managing, & even Reversing Diabetes through easy food choices" . In this podcast we explore how thoughtful choices can transform lives. The most important step in diabetes management: let's eat right: Whole grains, leafy vegetables, beans, healthy fats from nuts, sesame oil, olive oils, and fresh fruits provide your daily macro and phytonutrients. This balanced diet helps slow digestion, improve gut health, prevent sugar spikes and more. We speak about complex carbs and resistant starch; both crucial to sugar control.
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Duration: 00:05:09Plants do have Proteins
Jan 21, 2025Share your thoughts
This episode on plant based foods debunks the myth that animal products are the only source of complete proteins. We explore lentils/pulses, whole grains, tofu and also explain the magic of how the 9 essential amino acids is easily derived from a simple meal of rice & beans! Besides mere proteins, lentils deliver dietary fiber and a truckload of phytonutrients
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Duration: 00:04:48Nuts & Seeds over Nutraceuticals anyday
Jan 15, 2025Share your thoughts
Why reach for supplements, boosters & pseudo miracle cures and get sucked in by attractive commercials with claims that often stretch the truth? In the process, we have helped build a multibillion-dollar nutraceutical industry and haven’t gotten healthier. The benefit of supplements is trivial compared to the magic in our kitchens. The humble Nuts & Seeds in our pantry are unsung heroes and battery packs of phytochemicals that can turbo charge our daily lives if we use them well. Let’s journey along today to discover their goodness
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Duration: 00:03:38Herbs & Spices
Jan 09, 2025Share your thoughts
Spice & herbs are long haul players of good health, not just quick fixes. take a quick tour of Cinnamon, Cardamom, Galangal, Cloves. Some are anti-fungal, anto-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. Let's Spice it up.
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Obesity: Let’s not be alarmist but get the facts on the risks
Jan 25, 2021Share your thoughts
There is too much alarmist surround sound on obesity. Yes, it can be problematic but before we jump to “cure” here’s some good news. Recent research shows there is no increased risk of mortality from obesity if other metabolic factors are in check, like BP, blood sugar, cholesterol. The risk of obesity related complications are further mitigated by exercise.
Join us today on a journey of some interesting factoids on food groups and how they can help deal with obesity.
Find out more at www.csaw.co/blog.php
T...
Duration: 00:07:33Bone Health & Nutrition
Nov 16, 2020Share your thoughts
Collagen, Calcium, Phosphorus, and Vitamin D are each crucial for bone health as we age. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body that forms the scaffolding that gives our body its structure and strength. Calcium homeostasis is an even distribution of Calcium in the bones and is crucial for skeletal health. This process is aided by Phosphorus and Vitamin D that ensures the absorption of Calcium in our body.
Vitamin C, amino acids, zinc and Copper are required for pro-collagen, the precursor to the protein collagen.
Listen on for...
Allergy, asthma and nutrition
Nov 09, 2020Share your thoughts
A very small dietary change can make a huge difference to the quality of our lives.
Pollen, pets, dust mites and foods are common triggers for skin allergies and/or asthmatic episodes. Sometimes a hyperactive immune system triggers a battle between our antibodies and some foods, creating all the familiar allergy symptoms.
Some allergies including eczema are alleviated by avoiding dairy, gluten, peanuts, eggs, honey and highly processed foods. Some of these are easy to identify through allergen tests. A dietary cure though is trickier, requiring careful monitoring & record keeping and...
Migraine: Awareness of triggers is half the battle won.
Nov 02, 2020Share your thoughts
For those who suffer it, migraines are a painful, unexpected & debilitating condition. They are often genetic with no known cure. Common triggers are stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, alcohol, hunger etc. There is not enough evidence that some foods can cure migraines. Results widely vary from person to person. For instance, coffee is known to help some, harm others.
So, what is one to do?
Find out more at www.csaw.co/blog.php
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Duration: 00:06:18Cuisines of South-East Asia | Part 2
Oct 06, 2020Share your thoughts
The bustling hawker centers, food carts and street stalls are a major source of the wafting aromas of South east Asian cuisine across the region. Deeply influenced by Chinese, Indian and Islamic culinary traditions, Malaysian food is both a melting pot and a distinctive mosaic with a cornucopia of colors, tastes and flavors.
In turn, Malaysia has lent its influence to the uniquely Peraaaa nakan cuisine of Singapore. Also known as Nyonya, it is a blend of Chinese, Malay and Javanese cuisine that is gravy rich, spicy and colorful.
Further e...
Cuisines of South-East Asia | Part 1
Sep 22, 2020Share your thoughts
S.E Asia’s 11 countries with 650 million people and $10 trillion in GDP is a rich confluence of cultures. Despite colonization by the British, French, Dutch and the Spanish; it is the Chinese and Indian heritage that runs deep in its art, culture, ethnicity cuisine and traditions. Yet each country has retained a distinct cuisine that brings to the surface the richness of local flavors with the influence of Buddhist, Muslim and Hindu culinary traditions.
Join us today on a partial tour of SE Asia as we explore rice and lentil rich Myanmar, gal...
Healing food systems known for centuries
Sep 14, 2020Share your thoughts
The Incas, Mayans, ancient Chinese, Indians, Mediterraneans had long ago figured out that “we are what we eat”, and correspondingly built up a staggering knowledge of plants, nutrition and their impact on our wellness. In many ways scientists today are still playing catch up as they point out goodness of chemicals & molecules in foods through “analysis”, “evidence-based science” and “observation”.
This newsletter is committed to providing you evidence-based tips that will uncover the magical pharmacy in our kitchens. We love meta studies and peer reviewed articles, but we also hear the voices of our elders spea...
The Mediterranean Miracle: Hiding in plain sight
Sep 09, 2020Share your thoughts
Studies have proven beyond doubt that the Mediterranean diet reduces risks of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, diabetes, cancer and even lowers the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and stroke. Wow! When we think of the expression “Kitchen Pharmacy” it is difficult to find a better example. The Mediterranean Diet though, is more than just about food. It’s a way of life. People there eat better and live healthier lives than almost anywhere on the planet.
Let’s look at both today- their food and the lifestyle. They are simple and pleasurable.<...
Duration: 00:06:08Reversing diabetes through nutrition
Aug 24, 2020Share your thoughts
It is impractical to count the daily calories we eat. So, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 2000 to 2500 calories/day is largely anecdotal. Also, it is crucial where these calories come from: simple carbs or complex carbs, plant or animal proteins, saturated or unsaturated fats. And computing this is equally hard.
So, the effective regimen is to start from our everyday baseline and make incremental changes to both quantity and quality of calories in our food. Even if we start our new regimen 10 years after the onset, research shows, we can reverse...
Fruits & Vegetables: Eat the colors of the rainbow
Aug 20, 2020Share your thoughts
While the rainbow may not be the technically accurate description, fruits & vegetables broadly fall into five color groups. Each color is a carrier of specific phytochemicals that perform some unique functions including cell development, immune support and fighting specific diseases. How well do you know each color?
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Duration: 00:04:21Herbs & Spices: pint-sized powerhouses
Aug 11, 2020Share your thoughts
When we think of herbs and spices the one word that jumps out is versatility. Its colorful, fragrant, medicinal, umami and finds its way in flavored and infused waters and in your balconies as more than just ornamental plants. Dyes, foods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, fragrances and toothpastes- you can run from spices, but you can’t hide! Join us as we discover some of the spice & herb remedies.
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Duration: 00:04:30What's the beef with plant protein?
Aug 05, 2020Share your thoughts
It’s today self-evident but scientists are still piling evidence upon meta-studies and more research upon research on the dangers of processed meats and it’s link to cancer. It's a bit reminiscent of the tobacco industry in the 60s and 70s. There have been congressional hearings & WHO proclamations to try and steer the world towards a healthier diet and environmentally friendly plant-based foods. Only 8% of the world population is vegetarian but these numbers are skyrocketing, and veganism too is on the rise. The myth of meat as the sole source of protein has long...
Duration: 00:06:08Dairy, plant-based milks and almond cows
Aug 03, 2020Share your thoughts
We all grew up on milk and know its calcium, vitamin, mineral rich & contains the sugar, Lactose. But today almost 2/3rd of the human population have difficulty digesting lactose. That’s one of the triggers for Veganism which is, deep rooted, spreading and indubitably healthier for the planet and the people. Plant based dairy can often substitute the goodness in milk while skipping lactose. Soy, Almond & Cashew are good sources of dairy and a treasure trove of nutrients.
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Duration: 00:06:02Vegetables - our vitamin C bodyguards
Jul 23, 2020Share your thoughts
When we think of Vitamin C, let's imagine vegetables, not supplements. It (Ascorbic acid) is arguably the most familiar of all vitamins. Just a tiny amount daily, this antioxidant, apart from building immunity & fighting infections also helps form bone cartilage, blood vessels & muscles. Green peppers, potato, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower and lemon are all Vitamin C rich vegetables. Vitamin C also helps absorb & store iron. The next time you have iron rich fruits & vegetables, squeeze some lime.
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Duration: 00:04:39Herbs & Spices - Blend them up for flavor & wellness
Jul 20, 2020Share your thoughts
We each have our favorite herb (Thyme, basil, cilantro) & spice (Turmeric, Pepper, or clove) that we like to somehow blend into our foods. But the trick is to use many of them together. They are synergistic in their effects. For instance, a little pepper with Turmeric better releases the magical curcumin. Dozens of spice nutrients are released into our bodies in the presence of other herbs and spices. So, go ahead & create your own spice blend.
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Duration: 00:04:26