Tomato Pie : The Lower Carb Way

Tomatoes are typically in season during August but even in early September it's still a nice treat to enjoy a simple salad using fresh tomatoes, which you may have grown yourself! 

When shopping, look for bright and firm tomatoes with wrinkle-free skins that are not split, and have a sweet, earthy scent. If sold on the vine, choose a thick, strong vine with tightly attached tomatoes. It's best not to put tomatoes in the fridge as this will impair their flavour and texture.

Have you tried tomato in a pie? This savoury low-carb pie is best with fresh summer tomatoes from a Southern garden. If you can’t get Southern tomatoes, just get tomatoes! You can enjoy this pie by itself, or with salad, but it's also delicious served with grilled meats - as always dear reader the choice is yours.

Ingredients

Six servings
5g carb per serving
Crust
1¼ cups (3½ oz.) shredded/grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup (3 oz.) almond flour
1⁄3 cup (1¼ oz.) oat fibre**
1 egg
2 tbsp butter or coconut oil
¼ tsp salt
Filling
5 (1¼ lbs) large tomatoes, sliced
1⁄3 cup (2 oz.) finely slivered red onions
½ cup mayonnaise
1¼ cups (5 oz.) cheddar cheese, shredded/grated
½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil

Three Tips
** The oat fibre can be replaced with 2 tbls. of coconut flour (1 pie).

Thyme can be used instead of instead of oregano / basil.

For more flavour, feel free to sprinkle chopped, cooked bacon over the tomatoes before baking the pie.

Need help with weight/measurement conversion, see here
Find recipe instructions here

If it's more like tomato soup weather where you live you might like this post here

Tomatoes and their health benefits

read more here

You will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic (more about this here) and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health it is always advisable to consult your Doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

More hobbies, less depression !

"Hobbies linked to lower depression levels among older people.

by University College London

Having a hobby is linked to fewer depressive symptoms and higher levels of happiness, self-reported health and life satisfaction among people aged 65 and over, and this holds true across 16 countries on three continents, according to a new study led by UCL (University College London) researchers.

The study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, aimed to see if the benefits of hobbies were consistent in different national settings, and looked at data from 93,263 people aged 65 or over who had enrolled in five existing longitudinal studies in England, Japan, United States, China and 12 European countries.

Analyzing data from participants spanning four to eight years, the researchers found that having a hobby was also linked to subsequent decreases in depressive symptoms and increases in happiness and life satisfaction, suggesting there might be a causal effect, although as an observational study it could not prove causality.

These results remained after adjusting for other factors such as partnership status, employment and household income.

The study found the benefits of having a hobby were relatively universal, with only small differences between countries.

Lead author Dr. Karen Mak (UCL Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care) said, "Our study shows the potential of hobbies to protect older people from age-related decline in mental health and well-being. This potential is consistent across many countries and cultural settings."

"Of the four outcomes, life satisfaction was most strongly linked to hobby engagement. Hobbies may contribute to life satisfaction in our later years through many mechanisms, including feeling in control of our minds and bodies, finding a purpose in life, and feeling competent in tackling daily issues."

"Theoretical work suggests the relationship between hobbies and well-being may cut both ways—that people with better mental health may be more likely to take up a hobby, and persisting with a hobby may help us to retain improved life satisfaction."

"Our research also supports policymakers in promoting access to hobbies among older people as a way to enhance their well-being and health."

Hobbies, defined as activities people engage in during their leisure time for pleasure, might range from volunteering or being part of a club to reading, gardening, playing games, and arts and crafts.

The researchers found the proportion of people who said they had a hobby varied considerably between countries, with 51% of study participants in Spain reporting having a hobby, compared to 96% in Denmark, 95.8% in Sweden and 94.4% in Switzerland.

China had the lowest level of hobby engagement, at 37.6%, but researchers cautioned that study respondents in China were asked only about social hobbies, not hobbies in general.

In countries with better life expectancy and national happiness levels, more people reported having a hobby, and also the link between well-being and having a hobby was stronger in those countries."

Above words, and more to see from article here

A hobby is considered to be a regular activity that is done for enjoyment, typically during one's leisure time. I enjoy reading and walking and yes, I also enjoy blogging.

Did you know blogging does count as a hobby, see here 

Do you have a hobby?

Articles, studies, comments etc found within this blog are provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, including medication, you should contact your local health care provider.

All the best Jan

Pumpkin Spice Muffins : Low Carb : Gluten Free

It's September, so surely time for some pumpkin spice muffins, just right for this time of year! This is a very nice recipe suggestion from Elviira at 'Low Carb So Simple'... and like her, I am sure you will find these low carb 'pumpkin spice muffins' are soft, moist and incredibly yummy!

Ingredients

12 medium size muffins
(net carbs 2.2g)
1 1/2 cup = 360 ml almond flour
1 tablespoon (organic) pumpkin pie spice
2/3 cup = 160 ml erythritol crystals / sweetener
2/3 cup = 160 ml (organic) pumpkin
4 extra large (organic) eggs

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 300 °F (150 °C).
2. Line a muffin pan with paper liners.
3. In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, pumpkin pie spice and erythritol and mix well until there are no lumps.
4. Add the pumpkin and eggs and beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
5. Scoop the batter into each muffin cup.
6. Bake for some 30–40 minutes, or until a stick inserted in the middle of the muffin comes out almost dry.
7. Remove the muffin pan from the oven and cover with a towel.
8. Let the muffins cool under the towel, remove the towel and the muffins from the pan and serve. For a really indulgent treat, frost the muffins with Quick Low-Carb Cream Cheese Frosting - see here
9. Store in an airtight container.

Elviira gives some very useful hints and tips on how to cook these delicious low carb muffins, which you will find here

If you need help/guidance with weight/measurement conversion see here

~ wishing you a happy day ~

You will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog and not all may be suitable for you. Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. Any allergies, or underlying health issues must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Welcome the 1st of September 2026

 As we say goodbye to August it's time to say hello to September.

Yes, the ninth month of the year is here!

September is sometimes called the doorway month. The energy of summer fades, leaves begin to change colour, children head back to school, and the harvest moves into full swing.

Yes, September is here and if you live in the northern hemisphere it brings the last days of summer and the first days of Autumn... (obviously Spring if you live in the southern hemisphere!) 

"September, in Old England, was called Haervest-monath (Harvest Month). This is the time to gather up the rest of the harvest and prepare for the winter months.

September’s name comes from the Latin word septem, meaning "seven" This month had originally been the seventh month of the early Roman calendar. It wasn’t until 451 BC that the months of January and February were added to the calendar, making September the ninth month.

The Romans often associated different months with different gods. September is associated with Vulcan, the Roman god of fire.

September’s zodiac signs are Virgo (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) and Libra (Sept. 23–Oct. 22). Virgos are said to be analytical and hardworking people, while still being kind and loyal. Libras, on the other hand, value harmony and diplomacy, and are said to be both intelligent and kind.

September’s birth flowers are the aster and the morning glory. The significance of both flowers is actually very similar, with the aster being said to represent love, while the morning glory represents affection.

The September birthstone is the sapphire, which was once thought to guard against evil and poisoning. The sapphire, along with the related ruby, are the second-hardest natural gemstones, with only the diamond being harder

September is National Happy Cat Month, and I know there are a lot of cat lovers who read this blog 😺

September 5th is National Cheese Pizza Day,

 Have a Pizza Night, the Low Carb Way, with a Cauliflower Pizza Casserole 

it's so cheesy - more details here

~ Wishing you a happy September 2026 ~

You will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Spiced Chicken and Cauliflower Traybake : Flavourful : Gluten Free

If you’re yet to try roasted cauliflower, you’re in for a treat. Traybakes are the perfect fuss-free dinner and this chicken dish pairs Middle Eastern spices with sweet cherry tomatoes and a nutty, herb-studded tahini sauce to make a satisfying gluten-free dinner/supper.

Ingredients

Serves 4
1 cauliflower, cut into florets
2 red onions*, cut into wedges
8 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
330g cherry tomatoes
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
½ tsp mild chilli powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp allspice
3 tbsp olive oil
100g baby spinach
For the tahini sauce
25g (3/4oz) tahini **
125g (4 1/2oz) low-fat natural yogurt
1/2 red chilli
30g fresh coriander
15g flat-leaf parsley

* If you do not have red onions try using white, brown or spring onions (scallions)
** Read more about tahini here

Method
1. Preheat the oven to gas 6, 200°C, fan 180°C. Put the cauliflower florets, onion wedges, chicken thighs, tomatoes, spices and oil into a large roasting dish and mix well to combine.
2. Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 45 mins, then remove the foil and continue to bake for 25-30 mins, until the chicken is cooked through with no pink meat showing and the cauliflower is golden and tender.
3. Meanwhile, put all the ingredients for the tahini sauce into the small bowl of a food processor and blitz until smooth.
4. Stir the spinach into the roasting tin and let it wilt from the heat of the chicken and veg. Serve drizzled with the tahini sauce... and enjoy!

Each serving contains
Fat 30g Carbohydrate 14.5g Protein 24.5g Fibre 5.7g
From original idea here

For those who may prefer a vegetarian dish

Vegetable Stew - more details here

~ sharing some late summer blooms ~

image from google

You will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog and not all may be suitable for you. Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. Any allergies, or underlying health issues must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Meet The Penguins At Penguin Cove

I know not all readers agree with, or like zoos, but I have many happy memories of visits to the Zoo as a child, then with my own children and latterly my grandchildren. One of my favourite visits are seeing the penguins, and at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire there is a colony of thirteen endangered Humboldt penguins. 

Humboldt penguins are one of 18 penguin species. Humboldt penguins are medium-sized penguins from South America. They are greyish-black and white in colour, with a large pink area around the base of their beak. Unusually for birds, both male and female penguins look alike. Whilst they may not be able to fly like most other birds, they are very agile swimmers and almost seem to ‘fly’ through the water. Read more here

"Local swimming kids have been helping penguins make a splash!

Penguins at a zoo in Hampshire are making a splash with their new wave machine - after a fundraising campaign by local children.

More than one hundred kids between the ages of four and eleven completed a sponsored swim to help raise money.

Swimming distances of 50 metres (two lengths) and above, their efforts raised more than £15,000.

Staff at the zoo said the wave machine helps to create strong currents underwater for the penguins to swim against, improving their physical and mental wellbeing.

What happened?

Some of the children who helped fundraise for Marwell Zoo's wave machine - otherwise known as a flow cannon - were at the zoo for the official switch-on.

10-year-old Ellie, who raised £510 by swimming a mile, said she enjoyed the whole experience.

She explained: "It was very fun, I did it in my free time, I'm glad I challenged myself.

"I love penguins, they're so cute and can be so much fun. Also, I love swimming, so I thought it would be the perfect challenge for me."

For the colony of 13 endangered Humboldt penguins who reside in the zoo's Penguin Cove.

Staff said their new machine will create strong underwater currents for the penguins to swim against.

Dan Garrick, from the zoo, added: "It will create a more dynamic, enriched experience for them when they go in the pool."

The zoo said that extra funds raised will be used to further improve the penguins' wellbeing."

Words above from article seen here

Do go and watch the 30 second video of the penguins swimming, they absolutely love it!

You can find the video here  

What did you think of the video? Do you like penguins?

Please share your thoughts in the comments.

All the best Jan

t's Almost The August Bank Holiday Weekend 2026

Yes, it's almost the weekend and here in the UK we have a Bank Holiday Weekend, which for many means a nice three day break from work. Time to see family, friends ... perhaps do some gardening or decorating even visit a local event.

Whatever you may be doing I wish you a happy weekend, with some good weather, although I'm not sure we will be lucky with that, because many areas of the UK are expecting thunder storms!

I have no plans to travel far, the roads are always extra busy at bank holiday times.

~~~~~

Here are two summer photographs from years gone by,

which I hope you may enjoy

gulls diving for dinner

down on the beach

finishing with this recent photograph 

which shows a view of the partial lunar eclipse and sturgeon moon 

photo credit - yen milne - read more details here

However you plan to spend your Bank Holiday weekend (or ordinary weekend) do have a good one.

... and how about enjoying this colourful salad sometime over the weekend!

Chickpea Salad

With feta, spinach and roasted peppers, it's got flavour 😋

see recipe details here

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Food For Healthy Bones

 

Food for healthy bones

A healthy balanced diet will help you build healthy bones from an early age and maintain them throughout your life.

You need sufficient calcium to keep your bones healthy and vitamin D to help your body absorb calcium.

Poor bone health can cause conditions such as rickets and osteoporosis and increase the risk of breaking a bone from a fall later in life.

You should be able to get all the nutrients you need for healthy bones by eating a balanced diet.

A good diet is only one of the building blocks for healthy bones, which also includes exercise and avoiding certain risk factors for osteoporosis.

Calcium

Adults need 700mg of calcium a day. You should be able to get all the calcium you need by eating a varied and balanced diet.

Good sources of calcium include:

• milk, cheese and other dairy foods
• green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage and okra, but not spinach
• soya beans
• tofu
• plant-based drinks (such as soya drink) with added calcium
• nuts
• bread and anything made with fortified flour
• fish where you eat the bones, such as sardines and pilchards

Although spinach contains a lot of calcium, it also contains oxalate, which reduces calcium absorption, and it is therefore not a good source of calcium.

Vitamin D

Adults need 10 micrograms (400 International Units or IU) of vitamin D a day.

It's difficult to get all the vitamin D we need from our diet and we get most of our vitamin D from the action of the sun on our skin.

From late March or early April to the end of September, you can make vitamin D from sunlight by having short daily periods of sun exposure without sunscreen. However, everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter when we cannot make vitamin D from sunlight.

Good food sources of vitamin D:

• oily fish, such as salmon, sardines and mackerel
• egg yolks
• fortified foods, such as some fat spreads and breakfast cereals

For babies and children, see vitamins for children.

At-risk groups

Some groups of the population are at greater risk of not getting enough vitamin D, and the Department of Health and Social Care recommends that these people should take a daily 10 microgram (400IU) vitamin D supplement all year round.

These groups are: 

• people who are not often outdoors, for example if they are frail, housebound or living in a care home
• people who usually wear clothes that cover up most of their skin when outdoors
• people with dark skin such as those of African, African-Caribbean or south Asian origin

Osteoporosis

If you've been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe calcium and vitamin D supplements as well as osteoporosis drug treatments if they have concerns that your calcium intake may be low.

Find out more about treating osteoporosis.

Menopause

Women lose bone more rapidly for a number of years after the menopause when their ovaries almost stop producing oestrogen, which has a protective effect on bones.

There are no specific calcium or vitamin D recommendations for the menopause, however a healthy balanced diet, including calcium, summer sunlight and vitamin D supplements, will help slow down the rate of bone loss.

Vegans

Non-vegans get most of their calcium from dairy foods (milk, cheese and yoghurt), but vegans will need to get it from other foods.

Good sources of calcium for vegans include: 

• fortified soya, rice and oat drinks
• soya beans
• calcium-set tofu
• sesame seeds and tahini
• pulses
• brown and white bread (in the UK calcium is added to white and brown flour by law)
• dried fruit such as raisins, prunes, figs and dried apricots
• green leafy vegetables such as kale, cabbage and broccoli

The vegan diet contains little, if any, vitamin D without fortified foods or supplements but, for everyone, sunlight on the skin in spring and summer is the main source of vitamin D. Remember to cover up or protect your skin before it starts to turn red or burn.

Other vegan sources of vitamin D are:

• fortified fat spreads, breakfast cereals and plant-based drinks such as soya drink (with vitamin D added)
• vitamin D supplements

Read more about sources of calcium and vitamin D in the vegan diet.

During pregnancy and when breastfeeding, women who follow a vegan diet need to make sure they get enough vitamins and minerals for their child to develop healthily.

If you're bringing up your baby or child on a vegan diet, you need to ensure they get a wide variety of foods to provide the energy and nutrients they need for growth.

Read baby and toddler meal ideas for more information.

Too much vitamin A

Some research has suggested a link between too much vitamin A and an increased risk of bone fractures. As a precaution, people who regularly eat liver (a rich source of vitamin A) are advised not to eat liver more than once a week, and not to take supplements containing retinol (a form of vitamin A usually found in foods that come from animals).

People at risk of osteoporosis, such as postmenopausal women and older people, are advised to limit their retinol intake to no more than 1.5mg (1,500 micrograms) a day by eating less liver and liver products and avoiding supplements containing retinol (including those containing fish liver oil).

Words above from NHS site UK here

PLEASE BE AWARE
Articles / studies (and any comments) within this blog are provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional.

Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. Any allergies, or underlying health issues must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

If you have any concerns about your general health, including medication, you should contact your Doctor/local health care provider.

All the best Jan

Lemon Drizzle Cake : Sugar Free : Gluten Free

"This Sugar-Free Lemon Drizzle Cake recipe is a delicious diabetic-friendly and gluten-free cake bursting with lemon flavour.

Ingredients

4 large eggs
120 g xylitol/sweetener, plus 60g for the drizzle
150 g Greek yoghurt
250 g almond flour
50 g oat flour
1.5 tsp baking powder
1⁄2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 large lemon, zest & juice

Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / gas mark 4. Grease a 1lb loaf tin with a little oil and line the base with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the almond flour, oat flour, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, stand mixer or a good old-fashioned whisk, cream together the xylitol and eggs until light and fluffy. This will take a few minutes and they will get paler in colour
4. Then slowly mix in the Greek yoghurt and lemon zest
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
6. Pour the cake batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake on the middle shelf of the oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top.
7. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for a few minutes.

Make the Lemon Drizzle
8. While the cake cools, prepare the lemon drizzle. In a small pan gently heat the lemon juice and xylitol, whisking until the xylitol dissolves. The mixture should have a slightly syrupy texture.
9. Using a spoon, slowly drizzle the lemon syrup evenly over the top of the cake. The cake will absorb some of the drizzle, and some will pool at the bottom of the tin. That’s perfectly fine – it just adds to the moistness and deliciousness!
10. Leave the cake to cool in the tin before transferring it to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Tips and Notes
i) For best results, ensure all your ingredients, particularly the eggs, are at room temperature. This helps the batter come together smoothly and bake evenly.
ii) While using xylitol for this recipe you can substitute another diabetic-friendly sweetener of your choice. Just be sure to check the conversion chart for the specific sweetener you’re using and adjust the amount accordingly.
iii) You can read more about sweeteners on the UK's NHS site here
iv) Diabetes Note – This recipe is designed to be diabetic-friendly and while significantly lower in carbohydrates than a traditional lemon drizzle cake, there still are some carb counting requirements.

Important Note
This recipe uses natural xylitol as a sugar substitute. It’s important to note that xylitol can be toxic to dogs, so be sure to keep any leftovers out of reach of your furry friends.

This recipe typically yields 10-12 slices, depending on how thick you cut them, and works out at approx. 4g carbs per slice."

The above and more to read/see here

~ have a cup, saucer and plate ready to enjoy a slice ~

You will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog and not all may be suitable for you. Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. Any allergies, or underlying health issues must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

The 'Ber' Months Are Getting Closer

image from google

Yes, the 'Ber' months are getting closer, and I do like them all.

September, October, November and December, they each offer different things.

Perhaps it's just me... or do you also find that as the calendar tells us it's soon to be September, something magical begins to happen? In the Northern Hemisphere the colours begin to alter and take on their Autumnal hues, whereas in the Southern Hemisphere spring flowers may begin to appear. The seasons offer so much variety, and for me my two favourite ones are Autumn and Spring.

Of course, that doesn't mean that I dislike Summer and Winter, although I have not enjoyed the very hot weather and the wild fires many have experienced this summer and rumours abound that with the strange weather patterns we may get extra snow this winter! Time will tell!

For the time being enjoy the remainder of August.

All the best Jan

Tea Towels - how often do you wash yours?

A tea towel is a soft cloth made of linen, cotton or a combination of the two, and usually has an imprinted or woven design for decoration. Tea towels, which are approximately the size of a hand towel, date back to the 18th century, when they were originally used at tea ceremonies and to dry expensive fine china. Today, tea towels are found in kitchens and homes across the globe. They’re used for a variety of purposes, from keeping leafy greens crisp to covering warm baked goods.

The everyday tea towels I use are very similar to those shown in the above image, but there are many different designs available. From Christmas ones, to flowery ones even school class ones ... yes, I have a couple of those gifted me by the grandchildren! 

It is of course important to keep them clean and hygienic and I share this recent article that you may find interesting. 

"Microbiologist settles debate on how often you should wash your tea towels

A microbiologist has settled the long-lasting debate on how often you should wash your tea towels. The kitchen essential is used for pretty much everything from wiping spills to drying pots and pans. They do a lot of cleaning, yet when it comes to cleaning the towels themselves, people seem divided on how to handle it.

Some claim they should be cleaned daily, whilst others wait until it seems necessary, such as when they smell, or there are stains on them. Now, the debate has been settled.

According to the expert Dr Primrose Freestone from the University of Leicester, tea towels should be changed every day. This is because the essential can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria. If left for too long, you risk spreading dangerous bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella across your kitchen surfaces.

Dr Freestone told the Daily Mail: "You could get sick if the tea towel has mopped up fluids with infectious bacteria in them and then re-used to contaminate a previously clean area."

On Reddit, where the discussion recently reignited, one person said they would only change their tea towel "when it stinks. When it looks dirty."

Similarly, another said: "I change things when they get gross. So, when you can see stains on the dish towels and cloths."

Though you have others who, as the microbiologist suggests, do swap out their dish cloths more often.

One commented: "Dishcloths and rags every day or every other day, MAX every third day. Anything else is gross when they're used in the kitchen."

Dr Freestone explained that when tea towels are used regularly for drying dishes and cleaning up mess, "an environment is created which favours growth of bacteria with dampness and nutrients".

She added: "Kitchens favour this growth by being quite warm environments. Bacteria which can cause food poisoning can grow well at room temperature."

So the next time you use a tea towel to dry some pots, or clean up a spill, it's worth putting it away to wash it before using it again."

Words above from article seen here

Related post - 'Tea Towels ... date back to the 18th Century' - read it here

Dear reader, this blog is presented in a magazine style and you will find a variety of articles, studies, thoughts, music and recipes! 

Not all articles, or recipes, may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use a reliable meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Marry Me Chicken Casserole : Low in Carbs, High in Protein

Marry Me Chicken gets its playful name from the idea that the creamy combination of chicken, Parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes is so good it might inspire a marriage proposal ... well I don't know about that, but it is a very tasty recipe!

Ingredients
Serves Four
plain flour, for dusting
4 skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped​
3 garlic cloves, crushed​
200ml double (heavy) cream
150ml chicken stock
100g sundried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped
½ tsp chilli flakes
1 tsp mixed herbs
25g Parmesan, finely grated
½ bunch fresh basil, shredded

To serve - some suggestions 

Swede/rutabaga mash or

potato mash or crispy potatoes, 
broccoli ... tenderstem works well or

green beans

Method

1. Tip enough plain flour onto a dinner plate to cover it well. Season the chicken breasts on both sides and coat in the plain flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a non-stick frying pan, and over a medium-high heat fry the chicken breasts for 5 mins on each side or until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate while you make the sauce.
3. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil and gently fry the onion and garlic over a medium heat for 5-7 mins, until softened. Add the cream, chicken stock, most of the sundried tomatoes (reserve a few to serve), chilli flakes and mixed herbs.
4. Stir to combine then add the chicken breasts back to the pan. Simmer gently for 10-12 mins or until the chicken is cooked through. You might need to turn your chicken breasts over if they’re big, to cook evenly.
5. Stir though the Parmesan and scatter over the remaining sundried tomatoes along with the fresh basil to serve.

6. Enjoy with your choice of sides.

Nutrition Per Serving

Carbohydrate 8.3g Protein 40.9g Fat 38g Fibre 3.3g

From recipe seen here

Alternative Meal/Recipe Suggestion

Summer vegetable and butter bean stew - see it here

~wishing you a happy day~

You will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog and not all may be suitable for you. Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. Any allergies, or underlying health issues must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Diabetes News : Weekly type 2 diabetes jab could replace daily injections

Hundreds of thousands of people with type 2 diabetes could get access to a new weekly insulin jab to replace daily injections, reducing the number needed each year by 86%.

Patients still have to wait for the treatment to be approved by the medicines regulator before it is made available on the NHS.

The treatment, known as Onswik and made by Eli Lilly, is said to work as well as daily insulin jabs but only needs to be injected once a week.

The charity Diabetes UK says it will help people manage their condition better, especially those who have extra care needs and who require help to inject every day.

Around 4.7 million people in the UK were living with diabetes in 2024-25, of which roughly 90% had type 2.

The condition means the body can't make enough of a hormone called insulin, or the insulin it makes doesn't work properly - also known as insulin resistance.

Diabetes UK says that around 1 in 4 people with type 2 diabetes takes insulin.

Greater flexibility

Moving from daily injections to a weekly jab is most likely to benefit those who need help with their injections.

That might include frailer people and those with sight loss, limited hand movement and learning disabilities.

People who have difficulty following the steps involved in a daily injection or those who struggle to stick to their treatment regime are also likely to be helped by the new drug.

Douglas Twenefour, head of clinical at Diabetes UK, said: "For some, especially those with additional care needs, moving from daily insulin injections to a once-weekly option could help manage their diabetes more easily, improving their quality of life.

"It's essential that everyone who could benefit is supported by their healthcare team to make informed decisions, and that this treatment helps reduce inequities in diabetes care."

Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at Nice, said the new treatment could make a "real difference to the day-to-day lives of people with type 2 diabetes, especially those who rely on a carer, family member or healthcare professional to help them inject".

She added: "This recommendation is the result of rigorous, evidence-based decision making, striking a balance between the benefits to patients and the best use of limited NHS funding."

The initial approval for the new treatment has come from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), which is the body responsible for deciding what medication and treatments should be available on the NHS.

But before type 2 diabetes patients can access the treatment via the NHS it needs to be licensed by another body, the medicines regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Health officials say they are waiting on the MHRA's ruling on the treatment "to understand whether it could be rolled out on the NHS".

Nice guidance applies to the NHS in England, but the NHS in Wales also frequently follows its recommendations.

They aren't automatically followed in Northern Ireland where they are reviewed by the Department of Health, and in Scotland the process is managed by the Scottish Medicines Consortium.

Type 2 diabetes?

Is a condition that happens when a hormone called insulin does not work properly or there is not enough of it.

This causes the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood to become too high.

Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable through lifestyle changes, unlike type 1 diabetes which is caused by a problem with the immune system.

Above words and more to read here

All the best Jan

Rainbow Omelette - not only colourful it's delicious and nutritious

Today, I'm sharing this colourful rainbow omelette. It makes such an easy lunch and can be enjoyed by all ages, and I know many children/grandchildren enjoy this too. The red pepper gives it a nice crunch, simply serve with salad on the side ... delicious and nutritious 😋

Ingredients

Serves Two (amend recipe as necessary)
4 eggs, lightly beaten
½ red pepper, finely chopped
100g frozen sweetcorn
2 tsp oil
2 slices cooked ham, roughly chopped
125g salad of your choice
6 cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp balsamic dressing

Method

1. Beat the eggs, pepper and sweetcorn together until evenly combined.
2. Heat 1 tsp oil in a non-stick frying pan. Add half the egg mix to the pan, fry for 2-3 mins on each side until the egg has set, then slide onto a plate, fill with the ham and fold over. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
3. Serve with the salad, tomatoes drizzled with the dressing.

(Approx.) Nutrition per serving

Carbohydrate 14.1g Protein 20.8g Fat 16g Fibre 3.6g
From recipe idea seen here

Some other omelette ideas

Mushroom & Tomato Omelette : Vegan Recipe - see here
Blueberry and Cinnamon Omelette : Low Carb - see here

Weekend Omelette Greek Salad Style - see here

Do you like omelettes? Perhaps you have your own favourite recipe ... do please share your thoughts in the comments.

~ enjoy your day ~

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and it is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use a reliable meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

A Trio For Tuesday : Fish - Chicken - Greek Cauliflower Rice Salad

Although the post title is 'A Trio For Tuesday' these three meal suggestions could be enjoyed any day of the week! In fact I think I may be having the Mediterranean Roasted Cod this coming Friday!

Mediterranean Roasted Cod

Ingredients

Serves Two

1 lb cod, boneless fillets

4 oz. cherry tomatoes, preferably on the vine

1 garlic clove, sliced

4 tbsp olive oil

salt and ground black pepper

1 tbsp small capers

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

½ tsp chili flakes

1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

½ tsp lemon zest

Tip

Take the fish out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking.

This will take the chill off and allow it to cook more evenly.

Instructions

can be seen here

Mustard and Sage Chicken with Celeriac Mash

Ingredients

Serves Three

1 celeriac, peeled and cut into chunks

3 chicken breasts, skinless

1 tbsp. English mustard powder

2 tsp olive oil

2 garlic cloves, crushed

8 sage leaves, chopped

100g low-fat crème fraîche, plus 2 tbsp. for the mash

1 chicken stock cube

2 tbsp. wholegrain mustard

To Serve

275g cooked green veg, such as thin-stemmed broccoli, peas or Savoy cabbage,

Instructions

and more, can be seen here

Greek Artichoke Cauliflower Rice Salad

Ingredients

Serves Four

12 ounces riced cauliflower

1 14 ounce can Artichoke Hearts

1 cup grape tomatoes sliced

1/2 large cucumber sliced

1/4 cup olives

1/2 bell pepper (red or orange)

1/4 cup olive oil

1/2 lemon juiced

1 clove garlic minced

salt and pepper to taste

fresh parsley chopped, for topping (optional)

Instructions

and more, can be seen here 

You will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and it is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use a reliable meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Something To Make You Smile . . .

 

Monday and the washing needed doing!

... and for me you can't beat the wonderful smell of line dried washing 😀

Ironing tomorrow!

All the best Jan

What's Your Choice - skimmed, semi-skimmed or full fat ?

"Bombshell study reveals which milk is healthiest - skimmed, semi-skimmed or full fat

Milk is a household essential but now it's finally been revealed which one is best for you. While you might have a personal preference, experts have debunked the myth about which milk has the best health benefits.

Scientists from the University of Toronto conducted a three-month study, where participants ate full-fat dairy products three times a day. There is a wider choice of milks to choose from than ever before, but which type would be most beneficial to your health? The results found that consuming full-fat dairy made no difference to weight gain compared to a control group. However, it did lead to lower blood pressure and a boost in bone-building calcium, protein and vitamin D.

The experts concluded that older people who may have more brittle bones should consume full-fat dairy products, Daily Mail reports.

Full-fat milk is an easy way to incorporate this into the diet, the experts added. Whole milk contains essential vitamins which other forms of milk do not have.

While it is the highest in calories, nutritionist Grace Kingswell says it is still only 4% fat.

She adds that the risk of a few extra calories and fat is worth it for the nutritional benefits.

Not only this but she says full-fat milk is more filling so by consuming it, people will feel fuller for longer.

Semi-skimmed milk is the most popular option in the UK, with around 80% of people opting for this choice. The milk has less fat meaning people will miss out on some of the vitamins the whole milk option offers.

However, research from Southern Medical University in China found those who regularly drank semi-skimmed milk over a 13-year period were around a third less likely to be diagnosed with anxiety.

Finally, skimmed milk is the lowest-calorie and lowest-fat option.

Despite this, Kingswell says skimmed milk contains less vitamin D than full-fat milk, which helps the body absorb the crucial nutrient, reports Daily Mail.

She says: "I would never not recommend full-fat milk or yoghurt," she says. "It contains far more of the nutrients we need compared to the lower-fat versions."

Kingswell adds: "The fat contains all the beneficial vitamins - A, D, E and K, which the low fat versions don't have.""

Links in article from the internet, image and words above by Alycia McNamara seen here

Related Post

Five Ways That Drinking Milk Can Improve Your Health - read it here

xxx ooooo xxx

Do please share your thoughts and choice of milk in the comments section. My choice is to drink full fat milk but appreciate there are those who choose not to drink it. Many people can’t tolerate milk because they are unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products and lactose intolerance affects around 65% of the world’s population. Others choose not to consume milk or dairy products due to dietary restrictions, health concerns or ethical reasons. This has led to a wide variety of non-dairy milk alternatives available in our shops/stores.

PLEASE BE AWARE

Articles / studies (and any comments) within this blog are provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional.

Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. Any allergies, or underlying health issues must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

If you have any concerns about your general health, including medication, you should contact your Doctor/local health care provider.

All the best Jan

Summer Cup Salad ... gluten free and vegetarian

All the glorious flavours of summer in one amazing salad – sweet strawberries, refreshing cucumber, fragrant mint and sweet citrus, just add crisp watercress and some creamy goat's cheese and voilà you have a lovely late summer dish!

Ingredients

Serves Four
1 large echalion shallot
pinch of salt
2½ tbsp red wine vinegar
4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard​
juice and zest of ½ orange
1 tbsp Summer Cup (or Pimm’s)**
ground black pepper
15g fresh mint
300g strawberries, hulled and halved (or quartered if large)
½ a cucumber, cut into half moons and de-seeded
80g watercress
50g soft goat's cheese

Method
1. Thinly slice the shallot, transfer to a bowl with the pinch of salt and 1 tbsp red wine vinegar. Massage together with your fingertips; set aside.
2. Meanwhile, whisk the remaining 1½ tbsp red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, orange juice and Summer Cup in a mixing bowl; season with plenty of black pepper. Pick the leaves from the mint; finely shred most, reserving the rest. Add the shredded mint to the dressing along with the strawberries and cucumber; toss to coat. Stir in the pickled shallot.
3. Arrange the watercress on a platter. Spoon over the strawberry and cucumber mix, crumble over the goat’s cheese and scatter with the reserved mint leaves and orange zest. Drizzle over any dressing left in the bowl and finish with an extra twist of black pepper to serve.

**Make it alcohol free, just swap the Summer Cup/Pimm's for 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar.

Each serving contains

Carbohydrate 8.7g Protein 3.8g Fibre 3.9g Fat 17g
From idea seen here

Echalion shallots, also known as banana shallots, are a cross between shallots and onions, offering a larger size and a milder, sweeter flavour than traditional shallots. They have an elongated shape and are easier to peel due to their smoother, tan-coloured skin. Traditional shallots, on the other hand, are smaller, have a more papery skin, and possess a more pungent, onion-like flavour.

Alternative Recipe Suggestions
Chilli tofu veg ‘noodles’ : Spicy leek and white bean stew : See them here

~ enjoy your August days ~

You will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and it is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use a reliable meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan