What Is In Your Pantry?
by Ngozi Osuagwu, MD | July 24th, 2022
Whenever I look into my pantry, I am reminded of the article I shared with you in a blog many years ago. The article was titled 10 Must-Haves for your Kitchen Pantry, written by Dr. Gerard Mullin, a gastroenterologist. Although all are not found in my pantry, they are in my kitchen. It reminds me that food is indeed our medicine.
10 Must-Haves for Your Kitchen Pantry
- Beans – All types have antioxidants, are anti-inflammatory, high in fiber, and promote colon health – Beans can be dry, canned, or frozen. You have to prepare ahead of time if you are going to prepare the dry beans. Most often, you want to soak overnight. There is a quick soak where you boil the beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit for one hour, and then prepare as usual. I prefer to soak overnight. If using canned beans, try to get the one without salt. You can drain the liquid and rinse the beans if the canned beans have salt.
- Brown Rice – Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber – I have to admit I am not a fan of brown rice, but I know it is good for me.
- Cinnamon – High in antioxidants, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and may aid in weight loss – I am a big fan of Ceylon cinnamon only because I use cinnamon every day with my oatmeal. The cassia cinnamon, sold in most supermarkets, may affect the liver if taken in large doses.
- Dark Chocolate – Reduces hypertension and boosts intestinal immunity – when anyone wants to buy chocolate, I remind them my preference is dark chocolate, not milk chocolate.
- Flax Seeds – May protect against breast and colon cancers; source of fiber and omega-3s
- Ginger – Anti-inflammatory, helps with nausea, and may aid weight loss – I love cooking with ginger.
- Nuts – contain vitamins and minerals that promote heart health and lower cholesterol – consider mixing them with raisins. Be mindful of the calorie count because it can add up quickly.
- Olive Oil – Reduces the risks for coronary heart disease, prevents bone loss, and lowers cholesterol.
- Tea – Promotes cardiovascular health, protects against colorectal and pancreatic cancer, and reduces the risk of stroke.
- Turmeric – Fights inflammation, has anti-cancer qualities and may protect against Alzheimer’s and digestive disorders – great spice to add to your meals.
Italicized comments are my comments.
They’re all in my kitchen, with the exception of flax seeds and olive oil (I prefer grapeseed oil)! I’m a (healthy foods) foodie, but always open to new information! I, too, believe that food should be our medicine!