Cal Orey's Blog, page 134
December 15, 2016
Healing Powers Series Hits Bestseller Ranking!
By Cal Orey
The Healing Powers Series welcomed me this morning with a new ranking. Much like the stock market I noticed the sales graph has soared to #11 author ranking for health, fitness, and diet.
All the books--vinegar, olive oil, chocolate, honey, and coffee--are getting ample attention for the holiday season!
2 hours ago"The Healing Powers of Olive Oil..." is ranked #1,199 out of over one million books in the Kindle Store. Holiday sale http://1.99--amazon.com
On sale at 1.99 at barnes and noble, kobo, and amazon, these ebooks are the perfect give for instant gratification.
Home cures to beat a cold, flu, fatigue, and help you dump unwanted pounds, to rustic recipes created by pro chefs, and so much more are ready for you with a click of that mouse!
The Healing Powers Series welcomed me this morning with a new ranking. Much like the stock market I noticed the sales graph has soared to #11 author ranking for health, fitness, and diet.
All the books--vinegar, olive oil, chocolate, honey, and coffee--are getting ample attention for the holiday season!
2 hours ago"The Healing Powers of Olive Oil..." is ranked #1,199 out of over one million books in the Kindle Store. Holiday sale http://1.99--amazon.com
On sale at 1.99 at barnes and noble, kobo, and amazon, these ebooks are the perfect give for instant gratification.
Home cures to beat a cold, flu, fatigue, and help you dump unwanted pounds, to rustic recipes created by pro chefs, and so much more are ready for you with a click of that mouse!
December 14, 2016
Ice Cream Snowballs with a Twist for the Holidays
Snow Globes with Light and JoyBy Cal Orey
The Writing Gourmet
This week holiday festivities and foods are everywhere. Instead of baking a fruit pie, fruitcake, molasses cookies, or vanilla fudge, I chose light ice cream snowballs. When I was a kid my mother always purchased a box of store bought snow white ice cream snowballs covered in coconut complete with squiggly green icing on top in a wreath shape and red candle in the center of each one. These balls kept in the freezer were one of my favorite desserts. It was sweet, cold, and decorative. It was special.
While this year I'm indulging in a filmfest of Hallmark Channel Christmasy films, I learned on the little screen and real life, that this time of year is more about people, love, and light instead of decorated trees, house lights, big gifts, and fun parties. So, I decided enjoying the towering pine trees that surround me and the Lake is sufficient. While I could have cooked a turkey or roast, potatoes, rolls, and baked cookies, I will probably take the non-traditional route.
But I did order white flannel sheets (my new memory foam mattress found its way to the Sierra after two weeks) and there are bronze reindeer (treasures from my dad), green and white candles in every room, the fireplace is cleaned, a storm is brewing, and on the wall a wooden cross that I made in my 11th grade wood shop class. (I am Catholic and my confirmation name is Theresa.) My faith in humanity takes me back in time growing up (attending mass Christmas morning) and to my mom who cooked all day to serve us a holiday dinner, and always left ice cream balls out for Santa to eat.
Winter Snow Globes
14 ounces all-natural ice cream (green tea or peppermint)
½ cup shredded coconut
½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
½ cup cashews, finely chopped
½ cup white chocolate, melted
Small candles
Line a pan with parchment paper. Leave out a carton of ice cream until soft. Scoop out 1/2 cup round balls of ice cream and place on pan. Put in freezer for about 15 minutes till ice cream is semi-hard. Meanwhile, place coconut, nuts, and chocolate in bowls. Then dip each ball into preferred ingredients. Insert a candle in the center of each ball. Put each decorated ice cream globe onto one dish and back into the freezer. Serves 6. Garnish with fresh berries strawberries, and whipped cream or plain. These pair nicely with flavored coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Instead of old-fashioned ice cream snowballs, exotic flavors, such as green tea or sea salt caramel gelato sprinkled with a variety of nature’s finest nuts, gives this dessert a superb flavor with a crunch. Or try lemon ice cream or sorbet balls inside lemon halves.
The Writing Gourmet 
This week holiday festivities and foods are everywhere. Instead of baking a fruit pie, fruitcake, molasses cookies, or vanilla fudge, I chose light ice cream snowballs. When I was a kid my mother always purchased a box of store bought snow white ice cream snowballs covered in coconut complete with squiggly green icing on top in a wreath shape and red candle in the center of each one. These balls kept in the freezer were one of my favorite desserts. It was sweet, cold, and decorative. It was special. 
While this year I'm indulging in a filmfest of Hallmark Channel Christmasy films, I learned on the little screen and real life, that this time of year is more about people, love, and light instead of decorated trees, house lights, big gifts, and fun parties. So, I decided enjoying the towering pine trees that surround me and the Lake is sufficient. While I could have cooked a turkey or roast, potatoes, rolls, and baked cookies, I will probably take the non-traditional route.
But I did order white flannel sheets (my new memory foam mattress found its way to the Sierra after two weeks) and there are bronze reindeer (treasures from my dad), green and white candles in every room, the fireplace is cleaned, a storm is brewing, and on the wall a wooden cross that I made in my 11th grade wood shop class. (I am Catholic and my confirmation name is Theresa.) My faith in humanity takes me back in time growing up (attending mass Christmas morning) and to my mom who cooked all day to serve us a holiday dinner, and always left ice cream balls out for Santa to eat.
Winter Snow Globes
14 ounces all-natural ice cream (green tea or peppermint)
½ cup shredded coconut
½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
½ cup cashews, finely chopped
½ cup white chocolate, melted
Small candles
Line a pan with parchment paper. Leave out a carton of ice cream until soft. Scoop out 1/2 cup round balls of ice cream and place on pan. Put in freezer for about 15 minutes till ice cream is semi-hard. Meanwhile, place coconut, nuts, and chocolate in bowls. Then dip each ball into preferred ingredients. Insert a candle in the center of each ball. Put each decorated ice cream globe onto one dish and back into the freezer. Serves 6. Garnish with fresh berries strawberries, and whipped cream or plain. These pair nicely with flavored coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Instead of old-fashioned ice cream snowballs, exotic flavors, such as green tea or sea salt caramel gelato sprinkled with a variety of nature’s finest nuts, gives this dessert a superb flavor with a crunch. Or try lemon ice cream or sorbet balls inside lemon halves.
December 11, 2016
Beat Holiday Blues with Blueberry Scones
By Cal Orey
Several years ago, on Christmas Eve I was feeling a bit under the weather so I ate sugary bon bons and drank diet soda. Then, on a feel-good sugar-caffeine high, I went to Safeway. After passing by the blood pressure machine, I used it. The numbers read 144/77 (120/80 or lower is normal). I took it again. The numbers spiked. The end result: I over-reacted and paid a visit to Barton Hospital to help calm my self-created spell of high anxiety linked to winter blues.
One doctor visit later, I chilled. My blood pressure was back to normal. The good doc (young enough to be my son) told me in between seeing other patients that his BP numbers were probably higher than mine were that night. I recall putting the bed covers over my head and crying out “I hate snow!” Without a psych consult, I, the one who hides from Old Man Winter, was released.These days, to boost my mood during the cold season I go for healthier sweets – like blueberries and whole grains. My bag of beating wintry blues tricks also includes: regular swimming/hot tub, walking my go dogs in rain or snow, a fire in the fireplace, cozy throws in the living room and flannel sheets in the bedroom, opening the blinds for natural light, aromatherapy candles, herbal teas, eating only 60 percent or higher cocoa content dark and baking semi-healthful sweets like blueberry scones to savor (in moderation).
Mini triangle scones are fun with or without raw sugarBlueberry-Sour Cream Scones
2 3/4 to 3 cups 100 percent natural whole wheat flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey (blueberry)
1/4 cup European style butter (cold cubes)
1 brown egg
3/4 cup sour cream (low fat if preferred)
3/4 cup 2 percent low-fat organic milk
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange rind
1 teaspoon allspice
1 tablespoon baking
powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups dried blueberries (fresh are good, but not always available and can make your scones mushy)
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Large triangle scones (roll dough into a
big circle and slice like a pizza) with
glaze is good for your spirit, too
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spice, and flavoring. Add chunks of butter, sliced in small squares. In another bowl, combine sour cream, egg, juice, milk, honey, vanilla and stir till a dough like mixture forms. Fold in rind and berries. Drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet. (Or, you can also form into a ball, roll out and cut into 1/2 inch triangles or circles to achieve that bakery perfect look.) Bake till brown, about 15 minutes. Makes 12 medium scones. Slice and serve warm with cream cheese or honey and coffee or tea.The sour cream secret ingredient makes scones moist. Using blueberries (yes, I found these at a bargain price) give these scones, a biscuit-like British quick bread, a sweet touch. It’s an awesome treat that is both yummy and pretty to look at. It’s like a juicy burst of summer or fall days (my cup of tea) each time you bite into a scone. On Sunday morning, I teamed a blueberry scone with one cup of cinnamon coffee and a whole orange. This light combo is like time travel into another season, a different, warmer climate on a different planet.Motto: Don’t wolf down a box of candy and lose the soda. You never know where you’ll end up by overindulging in the sweet stuff.
Several years ago, on Christmas Eve I was feeling a bit under the weather so I ate sugary bon bons and drank diet soda. Then, on a feel-good sugar-caffeine high, I went to Safeway. After passing by the blood pressure machine, I used it. The numbers read 144/77 (120/80 or lower is normal). I took it again. The numbers spiked. The end result: I over-reacted and paid a visit to Barton Hospital to help calm my self-created spell of high anxiety linked to winter blues.
One doctor visit later, I chilled. My blood pressure was back to normal. The good doc (young enough to be my son) told me in between seeing other patients that his BP numbers were probably higher than mine were that night. I recall putting the bed covers over my head and crying out “I hate snow!” Without a psych consult, I, the one who hides from Old Man Winter, was released.These days, to boost my mood during the cold season I go for healthier sweets – like blueberries and whole grains. My bag of beating wintry blues tricks also includes: regular swimming/hot tub, walking my go dogs in rain or snow, a fire in the fireplace, cozy throws in the living room and flannel sheets in the bedroom, opening the blinds for natural light, aromatherapy candles, herbal teas, eating only 60 percent or higher cocoa content dark and baking semi-healthful sweets like blueberry scones to savor (in moderation).
Mini triangle scones are fun with or without raw sugarBlueberry-Sour Cream Scones
2 3/4 to 3 cups 100 percent natural whole wheat flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey (blueberry)
1/4 cup European style butter (cold cubes)
1 brown egg
3/4 cup sour cream (low fat if preferred)
3/4 cup 2 percent low-fat organic milk
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange rind
1 teaspoon allspice
1 tablespoon baking
powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups dried blueberries (fresh are good, but not always available and can make your scones mushy)
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Large triangle scones (roll dough into abig circle and slice like a pizza) with
glaze is good for your spirit, too
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spice, and flavoring. Add chunks of butter, sliced in small squares. In another bowl, combine sour cream, egg, juice, milk, honey, vanilla and stir till a dough like mixture forms. Fold in rind and berries. Drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet. (Or, you can also form into a ball, roll out and cut into 1/2 inch triangles or circles to achieve that bakery perfect look.) Bake till brown, about 15 minutes. Makes 12 medium scones. Slice and serve warm with cream cheese or honey and coffee or tea.The sour cream secret ingredient makes scones moist. Using blueberries (yes, I found these at a bargain price) give these scones, a biscuit-like British quick bread, a sweet touch. It’s an awesome treat that is both yummy and pretty to look at. It’s like a juicy burst of summer or fall days (my cup of tea) each time you bite into a scone. On Sunday morning, I teamed a blueberry scone with one cup of cinnamon coffee and a whole orange. This light combo is like time travel into another season, a different, warmer climate on a different planet.Motto: Don’t wolf down a box of candy and lose the soda. You never know where you’ll end up by overindulging in the sweet stuff.
December 9, 2016
Vinegar 3rd Edition Hits Bestseller Ranking!
By Cal Orey
VINEGAR, 3 HITS #1 BESTSELLERThe Healing Powers Of Vinegarby Cal OreyHealing Powers
Kobo.com
#1 in Nonfiction, Health; Well Being, Health, Alternative Holistic Health,Naturopathy#1 in Nonfiction, Food Drink, Healthy Cooking #1 in Nonfiction, Food Drink, Healthy Cooking, Natural Foods
VINEGAR, 3 HITS #1 BESTSELLERThe Healing Powers Of Vinegarby Cal OreyHealing Powers
Kobo.com
#1 in Nonfiction, Health; Well Being, Health, Alternative Holistic Health,Naturopathy#1 in Nonfiction, Food Drink, Healthy Cooking #1 in Nonfiction, Food Drink, Healthy Cooking, Natural Foods
December 7, 2016
Apple Cobbler for Pre-Winter Days and Nights
By Cal Orey
Hello snow and and comfort cobbler! Made with fresh apples and covered with biscuits (or a crumble), this is a sweet-and-savory dish is to live for on cold pre-winter nights and chilly mornings at Lake Tahoe. While the old-fashioned dessert is popular in America, a country where apples are the pick of the crop, time after time, it works for me, a Californian native.One summer, I was on the road back home to San Jose. It was my mission to go to a Barnes and Noble bookstore and sign copies of my book “The Healing Powers of Coffee.” At home, I tried to pre-book a room at a fancy hotel. But mention of a “convention” hit me while on the phone. I thought it was a sign to be spontaneous and find an impromptu place. After the signing, looking for a hotel with room service — blueberry waffles and gourmet coffee was my dream — turned into a Hitchcock-type nightmare.
Hours and hours of driving in circles and “No Vacancy” from the Silicon Valley to San Bruno haunted me. By midnight, I ended up in Sunnyvale (I think) in a nondescript, crowded motel. I was dog-tired and petless; I slept like a princess. In the morning, I stumbled half asleep downstairs to a buffet breakfast: warm java with cream in plastic cups, a ripe banana and a cold Danish. I was homesick for home-cooking and my warmhearted critters.This week, the second week of December, at the crack of dawn thanks to the pup, I brewed a cup of caramel-flavored coffee. It was hot with organic milk. Then, I whipped up a apple cobbler. It was heavenly to smell spices lingering in the kitchen as the cobbler baked in the old-but-charming black oven in the 1946 cabin.
APPLE HOME-STYLE COBBLER 1 cup Heart Healthy Bisquick mix 1 cup organic, 2 percent, reduced-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 2 tablespoons European-style butter, cubed 2-3 cups fresh fruit, sliced (Granny Smith and Fuji apples) Raw sugar and cinnamon (to taste) Stir Bisquick mix, milk and nutmeg in ungreased round baking cake pan. Add fruit. Place butter on top. Spoon medium sized circles of batter on top. Sprinkle with raw sugar. Bake at 350 degrees approximately 45-55 minutes or till golden brown. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Stir together Bisquick mix, milk and nutmeg in ungreased round cake pan. Stir in butter until blended. Stir together sugar, cinnamon and peaches; spoon over batter. Serve warm with all natural vanilla ice cream. Makes 4 servings.Once the cobbler was baked, I cut a small slice right out of the oven. There’s something about fruit and biscuits that made me feel warm and fuzzy. The dollop of whipped cream made the cobbler sweeter. A good night’s sleep on a trip without critters is amazing. But I’ll take my alarm clock pup, meowing kitty any day.
Hello snow and and comfort cobbler! Made with fresh apples and covered with biscuits (or a crumble), this is a sweet-and-savory dish is to live for on cold pre-winter nights and chilly mornings at Lake Tahoe. While the old-fashioned dessert is popular in America, a country where apples are the pick of the crop, time after time, it works for me, a Californian native.One summer, I was on the road back home to San Jose. It was my mission to go to a Barnes and Noble bookstore and sign copies of my book “The Healing Powers of Coffee.” At home, I tried to pre-book a room at a fancy hotel. But mention of a “convention” hit me while on the phone. I thought it was a sign to be spontaneous and find an impromptu place. After the signing, looking for a hotel with room service — blueberry waffles and gourmet coffee was my dream — turned into a Hitchcock-type nightmare.
Hours and hours of driving in circles and “No Vacancy” from the Silicon Valley to San Bruno haunted me. By midnight, I ended up in Sunnyvale (I think) in a nondescript, crowded motel. I was dog-tired and petless; I slept like a princess. In the morning, I stumbled half asleep downstairs to a buffet breakfast: warm java with cream in plastic cups, a ripe banana and a cold Danish. I was homesick for home-cooking and my warmhearted critters.This week, the second week of December, at the crack of dawn thanks to the pup, I brewed a cup of caramel-flavored coffee. It was hot with organic milk. Then, I whipped up a apple cobbler. It was heavenly to smell spices lingering in the kitchen as the cobbler baked in the old-but-charming black oven in the 1946 cabin.
APPLE HOME-STYLE COBBLER 1 cup Heart Healthy Bisquick mix 1 cup organic, 2 percent, reduced-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 2 tablespoons European-style butter, cubed 2-3 cups fresh fruit, sliced (Granny Smith and Fuji apples) Raw sugar and cinnamon (to taste) Stir Bisquick mix, milk and nutmeg in ungreased round baking cake pan. Add fruit. Place butter on top. Spoon medium sized circles of batter on top. Sprinkle with raw sugar. Bake at 350 degrees approximately 45-55 minutes or till golden brown. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Stir together Bisquick mix, milk and nutmeg in ungreased round cake pan. Stir in butter until blended. Stir together sugar, cinnamon and peaches; spoon over batter. Serve warm with all natural vanilla ice cream. Makes 4 servings.Once the cobbler was baked, I cut a small slice right out of the oven. There’s something about fruit and biscuits that made me feel warm and fuzzy. The dollop of whipped cream made the cobbler sweeter. A good night’s sleep on a trip without critters is amazing. But I’ll take my alarm clock pup, meowing kitty any day.
December 6, 2016
Chocolate is Anti-Aging... Find Out How It Works Inside and Outside From Head to Toe
News Flash: Researchers Tout Chocolate Is Age-Defying
By Cal Orey, The Writing Gourmet
Is eating dark chocolate in moderation good for your skin? Can it make your face, arms, tummy, back, buttocks, legs and feet feel and appear younger looking and protect you from wrinkles? (The Healing Powers of Chocolate is on sale! Ebook format 2.99 amazon, kobo, and barnes andnoble.)
Studies past and present-- reported by "The Telegraph" have spawned a buzz about how a new chocolate can do the trick ["The Antioxidants Can Protect You From Wrinkles and More"]--showing that yes chocolate is skin-friendly. But as an age-conscious boomer and health-nutrition author edging towards the big 58th birthday I already knew that. In fact, fine chocolate without new, improved frills can work wonders...
Savoring 1.5 ounces of quality chocolate, 70% cocoa content with little sugar and little caffeine--and used on the outside of the body (chocolate infused beauty products) can certainly help smooth skin and leave it radiant because cocoa is rich in anti-aging antioxidants (also found in other superfoods, including fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and red wine).
When I did my research for The Healing Powers of Chocolate, I was treated to a chocolate bubble bath (think images of the oh so sensual solo bathtub scene in City of Angels as I did) and manicure at a four star in Reno, NV. Not to forget two small homemade decadent chocolate truffles..But that's not all... Other posh spas offer skin treatments, such as: Chocolate Body Masque, Chocolate Fondue Wrap, Chocolate Facial, Chocolate Pedicure, Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Wrap, and Chocolate Scrub/Massage.
What's more, experts largely agree a healthy skin and glow is a reflection of your overall health and well-being. It goes back to moderation and diet. Eat nutrient dense, natural antioxidant-rich foods--this includes fine dark chocolate in moderation--exercise, and use sunscreen and forget the tan to avoid skin cancer and aging skin.
* * *
Anti-Aging Antioxidants in Dark Chocolate
Catechin: can strengthen immune responsesEpicatechin: may stave off heart disease and diabetesFlavonoids: may help to reduce bad "LDL" cholesterolResveratrol: may have anti-cancer propertiesTannins: nutrients that can stave off strokes and heart attacks
The bottom line: If you take care of the inner you the outer you will look younger from head to toe. Check out more good for you chocolate news and you'll be surprised to discover that quality chocolate in moderation does boast healing powers for you and your skin and overall health.
By Cal Orey, The Writing Gourmet
Is eating dark chocolate in moderation good for your skin? Can it make your face, arms, tummy, back, buttocks, legs and feet feel and appear younger looking and protect you from wrinkles? (The Healing Powers of Chocolate is on sale! Ebook format 2.99 amazon, kobo, and barnes andnoble.)
Studies past and present-- reported by "The Telegraph" have spawned a buzz about how a new chocolate can do the trick ["The Antioxidants Can Protect You From Wrinkles and More"]--showing that yes chocolate is skin-friendly. But as an age-conscious boomer and health-nutrition author edging towards the big 58th birthday I already knew that. In fact, fine chocolate without new, improved frills can work wonders...
Savoring 1.5 ounces of quality chocolate, 70% cocoa content with little sugar and little caffeine--and used on the outside of the body (chocolate infused beauty products) can certainly help smooth skin and leave it radiant because cocoa is rich in anti-aging antioxidants (also found in other superfoods, including fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and red wine).
When I did my research for The Healing Powers of Chocolate, I was treated to a chocolate bubble bath (think images of the oh so sensual solo bathtub scene in City of Angels as I did) and manicure at a four star in Reno, NV. Not to forget two small homemade decadent chocolate truffles..But that's not all... Other posh spas offer skin treatments, such as: Chocolate Body Masque, Chocolate Fondue Wrap, Chocolate Facial, Chocolate Pedicure, Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Wrap, and Chocolate Scrub/Massage.
What's more, experts largely agree a healthy skin and glow is a reflection of your overall health and well-being. It goes back to moderation and diet. Eat nutrient dense, natural antioxidant-rich foods--this includes fine dark chocolate in moderation--exercise, and use sunscreen and forget the tan to avoid skin cancer and aging skin.* * *
Anti-Aging Antioxidants in Dark Chocolate
Catechin: can strengthen immune responsesEpicatechin: may stave off heart disease and diabetesFlavonoids: may help to reduce bad "LDL" cholesterolResveratrol: may have anti-cancer propertiesTannins: nutrients that can stave off strokes and heart attacks
The bottom line: If you take care of the inner you the outer you will look younger from head to toe. Check out more good for you chocolate news and you'll be surprised to discover that quality chocolate in moderation does boast healing powers for you and your skin and overall health.
December 2, 2016
Linda Barnett-Johnson Editing and Virtual Assistance: Using Pen Names: 7 Savvy Reasons Why a Pseudonym C...
: AT THE START of a writing career, your name may seem so perfect ... but as time goes by, sometimes a pen name becomes a must-have tool of ...
November 30, 2016
Chocolate Ebook on Sale at Amazon.com and Kobo.com
Here it is, The Healing Powers of Chocolate
By Cal Orey
By The Writing GourmetTHE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATE
BOOK IS NOW RELEASED:
BUY NOW
By Cal Orey
Kensington Trade Paperback, January 2010
ISBN: 0-7582-3820-7, $14.00/$17.50 (CAN)
Here it is, the brand new Chocolate book (part of the internationally popular Healing Powers series: The HEALING POWERS OF VINEGAR and THE HEALING POWERS OF OLIVE OIL). Announced in 2009 in blog posts, newspapers, and magazines, it is now available. You can purchase THE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATE right now at Amazon.com , BarnesandNoble.com , BooksaMillion.com , indieBound.org , borders.com , or your favorite retailer.
“Decadent” and “sinful” are words commonly associated with chocolate, but they no longer apply. Approximately 4000 years ago, in Central America, the Mayan Indians considered cocoa beans “food of the gods” because of its medicinal benefits. Later, it got tagged as a “bad” fatty food. But by the end of the 20th century, a twist of fate turned chocolate back into a health food.
THE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATE traces the origin of chocolate, from bean to bar, from centuries ago to the present day. In creating this informative and fascinating book, renowned health expert and author Cal Orey (who lives near San Francisco, one of the nation’s chocolate hot spots) interviewed America’s top chocolate makers and chocolatiers, nutritionists, medical researchers, and chocolate lovers to find out how this ancient “food of the gods” can prevent and fight common ailments and diseases.
The result is a lively comprehensive guide to the wide world of quality chocolate, from 70% dark truffles to Italian biscotti baked with extra virgin olive oil, in America and around the globe. With proven data for eating dark chocolate containing cocoa flavanols to reduce heart disease, diabetes, cancer, obesity, and dozens of pesky ailments, this book—with a European twist—takes you on a magical chocolate tour, complete with wit, charm, and entertaining personal anecdotes from ancient folklore to the 20th and 21st century.
From Ancient Folk Medicine to Modern Health Wonder, Discover the Amazing Powers of Chocolate!
Discover the healing powers of dark chocolate and cocoa—now widely recognized as an accepted “health food” and “SuperFood”—versatile cure-all.
Find out how chocolate’s powers can lower the risk of developing heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and weight woes.
Learn how chocolate contains more antioxidants than green tea and red wine—without the alcohol.
Put dozens of chocolate home cures to work for treating acne, anxiety, brain fog, cabin fever, cough, depression, fatigue, and other ailments.
You’ll also find chocolate beauty and anti-aging treatment—from masks, manicures to bubble baths and body wraps—made from antioxidant-rich chocolate teamed with natural plant extracts.
Incorporating cutting-edge scientific research, plus Mediterranean-style heart-healthy chocolate recipes, from Sicilian Mole to Dark Chocolate Mousse, THE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATE is a well-rounded one-of-a-kind resource that will show you why savoring this no longer forbidden “food of the gods” is the 21st century trend.Endorsements:* Featured in the Good Cook Book Club
* Editor's Fave book in Complete Woman magazine (Feb./March 2010 issue)
* The right kind, the right amount of chocolate may just save your life.
Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of New York Times bestseller The Fat Flush Plan
By Cal Orey
By The Writing GourmetTHE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATEBOOK IS NOW RELEASED:
BUY NOW
By Cal Orey
Kensington Trade Paperback, January 2010
ISBN: 0-7582-3820-7, $14.00/$17.50 (CAN)
Here it is, the brand new Chocolate book (part of the internationally popular Healing Powers series: The HEALING POWERS OF VINEGAR and THE HEALING POWERS OF OLIVE OIL). Announced in 2009 in blog posts, newspapers, and magazines, it is now available. You can purchase THE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATE right now at Amazon.com , BarnesandNoble.com , BooksaMillion.com , indieBound.org , borders.com , or your favorite retailer.
“Decadent” and “sinful” are words commonly associated with chocolate, but they no longer apply. Approximately 4000 years ago, in Central America, the Mayan Indians considered cocoa beans “food of the gods” because of its medicinal benefits. Later, it got tagged as a “bad” fatty food. But by the end of the 20th century, a twist of fate turned chocolate back into a health food.
THE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATE traces the origin of chocolate, from bean to bar, from centuries ago to the present day. In creating this informative and fascinating book, renowned health expert and author Cal Orey (who lives near San Francisco, one of the nation’s chocolate hot spots) interviewed America’s top chocolate makers and chocolatiers, nutritionists, medical researchers, and chocolate lovers to find out how this ancient “food of the gods” can prevent and fight common ailments and diseases.The result is a lively comprehensive guide to the wide world of quality chocolate, from 70% dark truffles to Italian biscotti baked with extra virgin olive oil, in America and around the globe. With proven data for eating dark chocolate containing cocoa flavanols to reduce heart disease, diabetes, cancer, obesity, and dozens of pesky ailments, this book—with a European twist—takes you on a magical chocolate tour, complete with wit, charm, and entertaining personal anecdotes from ancient folklore to the 20th and 21st century.
From Ancient Folk Medicine to Modern Health Wonder, Discover the Amazing Powers of Chocolate!
Discover the healing powers of dark chocolate and cocoa—now widely recognized as an accepted “health food” and “SuperFood”—versatile cure-all.
Find out how chocolate’s powers can lower the risk of developing heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and weight woes.
Learn how chocolate contains more antioxidants than green tea and red wine—without the alcohol.
Put dozens of chocolate home cures to work for treating acne, anxiety, brain fog, cabin fever, cough, depression, fatigue, and other ailments.
You’ll also find chocolate beauty and anti-aging treatment—from masks, manicures to bubble baths and body wraps—made from antioxidant-rich chocolate teamed with natural plant extracts.
Incorporating cutting-edge scientific research, plus Mediterranean-style heart-healthy chocolate recipes, from Sicilian Mole to Dark Chocolate Mousse, THE HEALING POWERS OF CHOCOLATE is a well-rounded one-of-a-kind resource that will show you why savoring this no longer forbidden “food of the gods” is the 21st century trend.Endorsements:* Featured in the Good Cook Book Club
* Editor's Fave book in Complete Woman magazine (Feb./March 2010 issue)
* The right kind, the right amount of chocolate may just save your life.
Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of New York Times bestseller The Fat Flush Plan
November 29, 2016
Healing Bible Foods for the Holiday Season
HEALING SUPERFOODS FOR YOUR BODY AND SPIRIT By Cal Orey
Did you know that honey,
olive oil and vinegar are in the bible?
HOME CURES FROM YOUR KITCHEN
#1 ALLERGIES (Common late fall and winter)What Healing Foods to Use:Try combining 1 tablespoon of locally produced honey—within a 50 mile radius—and 1 tablespoon of vinegar in a cup of antioxidant-rich black or green tea or fresh orange juice. How It Works: Apple cider vinegar has detoxifying agents which helps rid of pollutants in the air and your body. Honey, tea, and oranges are nature’s immunity boosters, protecting you from environmental toxins that can make you more vulnerable to allergies.#2 ANXIETY (Family and financial stressors)What Healing Foods to Use: Try an 8-ounce glass of water with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon lavender honey. How It Works: The ingredients in honey can be calming (some medical doctors believe nature’s nectar can beat insomnia) paired with soothing lavender, a known relaxer, as well as water which can also relax you (ever notice how people in movies drink a glass of water when they are under pressure?). But it’s the honey, too. The superfood may help to calm you due to its anti-stress antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.#3 BACK PAIN (Over-doing it physically during work and play)What Healing Foods to Use: Try an ice cold compress soaked in apple cider vinegar. Apply for 15 or 20 minutes. Follow with a heating pad as needed. For extra relief, massage your upper back with a mixture of olive oil and essentials oils. A heating pad, swimming followed by indulging in a hot tub is helpful. Repeat as needed.How It Works: This apple cider vinegar home cure for an aching back is a spin-off from R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compress, and elevate). The vinegar can soothe inflamed muscles, tissues, nerves, and boost blood flow. The ice also is good for lessening inflammation. Heat can feel super comforting and loosens up tight muscles. The multi-purpose vinegar remedy soothes the pain from perhaps doing too much during the holiday season. Olive oil contains a chemical, oleocanthal, that can stop inflammation similar to painkillers.#4 BRAIN FOG What Healing Foods to Use: Try a cup of coffee, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon raw honey.How It Works: A cup of java can enhance brainpower because of its caffeine. Apple cider vinegar does include potassium which may boost your mood and physical energy which can happen during the holidays. Honey is an instant energizing superfood. This trio can give you the desire to get a move on, in turn, you will likely be more clear-headed. #5 CAFFEINE WITHDRAWAL What Healing Foods to Use: Take 1 tablespoon vinegar with 1 8-ounce glass of water. Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily. Add 1 teaspoon honey as needed. (Note: Tapering off slowly from caffeine is best or if you have to stop caffeine for a short time, once back to your regular regime, the side effects will stop.)
How It Works: It is important to stay hydrated during the withdrawal period which can last a few days to weeks, depending on your caffeine intake. Remember, apple cider vinegar has detoxifying components so combining water with it will help you flush out the toxins as well as help lessen high anxiety. Honey taken with or without vinegar will calm you and provide instant energy, a blessing if you’re feeling lethargic or have flu-like symptoms. #6 SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDERWhat Healing Foods to Use: Mix 1 or 2 teaspoons each of apple cider vinegar and honey in a cup of coffee in the morning and afternoon. How It Works: Apple cider vinegar can help boost the level of serotonin in the brain, and feel-good caffeine in tea, and energizing honey can give you a physical and mental boost. So, once the vinegar, honey, and tea combo cure is taken and kicks in, it’s best to use that energy drink exercise—and that will give you that feel-good natural endorphin high throughout the day.(Excerpts from the Healing Powers Series.)
HOME CURES FROM YOUR KITCHEN
#1 ALLERGIES (Common late fall and winter)What Healing Foods to Use:Try combining 1 tablespoon of locally produced honey—within a 50 mile radius—and 1 tablespoon of vinegar in a cup of antioxidant-rich black or green tea or fresh orange juice. How It Works: Apple cider vinegar has detoxifying agents which helps rid of pollutants in the air and your body. Honey, tea, and oranges are nature’s immunity boosters, protecting you from environmental toxins that can make you more vulnerable to allergies.#2 ANXIETY (Family and financial stressors)What Healing Foods to Use: Try an 8-ounce glass of water with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon lavender honey. How It Works: The ingredients in honey can be calming (some medical doctors believe nature’s nectar can beat insomnia) paired with soothing lavender, a known relaxer, as well as water which can also relax you (ever notice how people in movies drink a glass of water when they are under pressure?). But it’s the honey, too. The superfood may help to calm you due to its anti-stress antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.#3 BACK PAIN (Over-doing it physically during work and play)What Healing Foods to Use: Try an ice cold compress soaked in apple cider vinegar. Apply for 15 or 20 minutes. Follow with a heating pad as needed. For extra relief, massage your upper back with a mixture of olive oil and essentials oils. A heating pad, swimming followed by indulging in a hot tub is helpful. Repeat as needed.How It Works: This apple cider vinegar home cure for an aching back is a spin-off from R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compress, and elevate). The vinegar can soothe inflamed muscles, tissues, nerves, and boost blood flow. The ice also is good for lessening inflammation. Heat can feel super comforting and loosens up tight muscles. The multi-purpose vinegar remedy soothes the pain from perhaps doing too much during the holiday season. Olive oil contains a chemical, oleocanthal, that can stop inflammation similar to painkillers.#4 BRAIN FOG What Healing Foods to Use: Try a cup of coffee, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon raw honey.How It Works: A cup of java can enhance brainpower because of its caffeine. Apple cider vinegar does include potassium which may boost your mood and physical energy which can happen during the holidays. Honey is an instant energizing superfood. This trio can give you the desire to get a move on, in turn, you will likely be more clear-headed. #5 CAFFEINE WITHDRAWAL What Healing Foods to Use: Take 1 tablespoon vinegar with 1 8-ounce glass of water. Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily. Add 1 teaspoon honey as needed. (Note: Tapering off slowly from caffeine is best or if you have to stop caffeine for a short time, once back to your regular regime, the side effects will stop.)
How It Works: It is important to stay hydrated during the withdrawal period which can last a few days to weeks, depending on your caffeine intake. Remember, apple cider vinegar has detoxifying components so combining water with it will help you flush out the toxins as well as help lessen high anxiety. Honey taken with or without vinegar will calm you and provide instant energy, a blessing if you’re feeling lethargic or have flu-like symptoms. #6 SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDERWhat Healing Foods to Use: Mix 1 or 2 teaspoons each of apple cider vinegar and honey in a cup of coffee in the morning and afternoon. How It Works: Apple cider vinegar can help boost the level of serotonin in the brain, and feel-good caffeine in tea, and energizing honey can give you a physical and mental boost. So, once the vinegar, honey, and tea combo cure is taken and kicks in, it’s best to use that energy drink exercise—and that will give you that feel-good natural endorphin high throughout the day.(Excerpts from the Healing Powers Series.)
November 28, 2016
Chocolate Pasta--Are You Serious?
By Cal Orey
Chocolate pasta? No, I’m not kidding. Actually, cocoa and spices goes way, way back thousands of years ago. The Mayans in Mexico often combined cocoa beans, the “food of the gods” with a variety of spices. So, thanks to ancient times, I am introducing you to a different new, improved flavored pasta in modern day.Years back, after finishing graduate school, I was the typical student living on a shoestring budget. I did have my degree and ambition to become a full-time freelance writer. During this time, I was smitten by a new man in my life. One evening, I wanted to cook a romantic dinner. I chose traditional store bought angel hair spaghetti and marinara sauce because it was fail-proof – nothing too creative. I took extra time, however, to make the pasta dish perfect, complete with onions and garlic. And it turned out fine. No surprises.But times are a changing. I’m older. I’m wiser. I’m more daring in the kitchen. On Wednesday, I turned to a package of chocolate fettuccine. At first, the dilemma was, “Do I go sweet?” or “Do I go savory?” I could have created a pasta chocolate-blackberry pudding but I changed it up a bit like that. I grabbed fresh vegetables out of the fridge and one pot, one pan. I made my decision. It was meant to be for me to create a quick and easy vegetarian-style entree dish with chocolate flair, a “chocolatarian’s delight.” (You can also cook it up, add fresh fruit and serve it chilled for a dessert.)Chocolate Fettuccine with Vegetables2 cups cooked chocolate pasta (prepackaged, hand-made and all natural)2 Roma tomatoes, chopped1 zucchini, chopped1/2 green bell pepper, chopped1 tablespoon each garlic and onion, chopped (optional)2 tablespoons European style butterFresh Parmesan cheese, gratedIn a medium-size pot, boil water. Cook pasta for no more than five minutes. While the pasta is boiling, in a frying pan, saute vegetables in butter. Do not overcook. In a nice dish, put drained pasta in and top with veggie mix. Top with Parmesan cheese. Serves 2 . Serve with warm, whole-grain French bread slices or bread sticks dipped in extra virgin olive oil.
Okay, so you’re wondering, “How did it taste?” Uh, different? Not like the stuff I used back in the day. The texture and flavor are a cut above. The pasta that I used is a light chocolate color, earthy. (It’s low in sodium, calories, cholesterol, and fat plus an excellent source of protein, iron, and dietary fiber.) It was pretty when plated with red and green veggies and golden cheese.So, this cocoa pasta thing is really not zany. After all, in my chocolate book I included both chocolate pasta and entree recipes. It works. Ask people in Italy or Mexico. They’ll tell you that mole (a sauce with nuts, tomatoes, vegetables, spices, and cocoa) are nothing new. And that’s not all… Chocolate and pets? My two loves. And it’s making my tail wag.A special thanks to Devo Olive Oil Co. http://www.devooliveoil.com for their Chocolate Fettuccine and Lemon EEVO.– Cal Orey, M.A. is an author and journalist. Her books include “The Healing Powers” series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, and Coffee) published by Kensington. Dozens of heart healthy spa chef recipes in The Healing Powers of Chocolate (ebook on sale at amazon.com and kobo.com)
