Cinnamon AKA Super-Spice :)

Don't fret if you missed the kick off event at the 64 Degrees Demonstration Station! I will be back and at it again next Tuesday at 12 noon to show you just how stellar NUTS truly are.

But, for those of you who are interested in why CINNAMON is such a superfood, here's the quick 4-1-1. Plus, I've even thrown in a few ideas to tantillize your taste buds and get you ready to experiment with the superspice this weekend!

The Benefits of Cinnamon

Facts:

·         1 tsp = 6 calories

·         Source of calcium, fiber, and magnesium

·         Contains antioxidant flavonoids & essential oils with antibacterial & anti-inflammatory properties

·         May stabilize blood sugar after consuming carbohydrates

Quick & Simple Taste Bud Approved Recipe Ideas

Breakfast:

·         Sprinkle on oatmeal and top with fresh sliced banana

·         Make your own cinnamon granola or muffins (recipe provided today)

·         Top cottage cheese with cinnamon & sprinkle with chopped walnuts

Lunch & Dinner:

·         Roasted squash with cinnamon-butter

·         Try spicing up Short Ribs, Chicken Biryani or Lamb Tagine

·         Add a little kick to your Bolognese meat sauce!

Snacks:

·         Cinnamon Roasted Almonds (or nut of choice!)

·         0% Fat Greek Yogurt mixed with PB2 & a sprinkle of cinnamon, paired with apples

·         Graham Crackers (or crackers, toast or rice cakes) topped with PB2 or cottage cheese, sliced bananas and a sprinkle of cinnamon!

Have another suggestion on how to use the superspice? There's still time to submit recipes for the Foodie Contest from National Nutrition Month!

Feel free to comment here, post to Facebook or share on Instagram... we'd love to hear from you!

Happy Halloween UC San Diego

I know, I know; you’re adults and over the whole Halloween thing… right? Well, I for one am a child still at heart and love any holiday where you get an excuse to eat candy all day!!!

While “all day” may be stretching it a little, my point is you can surely find the right balance of treating yourself to a Halloween delight without breaking your nutrition bank for the day.

For instance, our Markets across campus are filled with satisfyingly sweet snacks that are not only delicious but nutritious. Check out my finds of the latest Taste Bud Approved sweet treats to pick up at your neighborhood Market this weekend.

Luna Bars are labeled as the nutrition bar for women, but they really are just a stellar nutrient packed snack that males and females alike can enjoy.  These are my top three flavors and are a great alternative to a candy bar between classes.

 

 

Maybe you prefer a little more salty than sweet? Well then my friends, you have to check out Annie’s Sweet & Salty popcorn mix, Back to Nature’s Sweet Potato Cinnamon Crackers or Somersaults Cinnamon Nuggets. With just the right balance of salty and sweet, you’ll satisfy that craving while getting a bit of fiber in at the same time!

  

 

For those of you who just can’t shake the craving for a decadent dessert, then opt for a Spooky Sprinkled Donut! These guys are a better option than the Pumpkin Cupcake or Muffin and when paired with a cup of milk actually provide you with a little bit of protein as well. Plus, it’s National Buy a Doughnut Day J.

  

 

Have a safe and healthy Halloween folks!