Lets Talk About Alcohol

Alcohol consumption is one of the most common weekend (and often weekday) activities amongst young professionals, especially in the UAE. Everywhere you turn there's a brunch, a ladies night, a boozy dinner to attend; it's often hard to say no, or is frowned upon by your social group.  Despite following a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly and eating well during the week, a weekend packed with mojitos and g&t's can detrimentally affect our health long term.  And let's not even mention the hungover cheat days, that more often than not leave us bloated and feeling worse than before. 

We all know alcohol has an effect on the brain, causing slower reaction times, lowering inhibitions and altering our mood.  We also know the effects on the liver by increasing inflammation and leading to cirrhosis or alcoholic hepatitis.  We may not know the effects on the heart, increasing blood pressure and risk of stroke, or on the pancreas by inhibiting secretion of digestive enzymes leading to poor digestion and inflammation of the GI tract.  Long-term excessive consumption can lead to cancer and other significant health issues due to decreased immune health.  

But, being young and naive, we do it any way. I know some people who are 200% committed to their health and don't drink, and all the power to them. But I grew up around friends and family who do enjoy a social drink or four, and I actually do enjoy a few bevies every now and again as well.  The problem lies when I get a bit carried away, and I spend the entire next day regretting my decisions and craving (consuming) hot chips, then a burger, then a pizza, then spaghetti bolognaise, then an ice-cream sunday. It's not even so much the hangover day, but the week after always seems like a struggle, I'm constantly tired and training and keeping on track with eating is not high on my list of priorities. 

So, despite my love of a zingy g&t, I try to follow these few rules:

1. Don't drink every weekend.  This can be a hard rule to follow at times in Dubai, but I feel a lot better after having a 'weekend off' drinking, and am more inclined to enjoy a social draaaank the following week!

2. Don't get plastered.  Again, difficult in Dubai where 'all you can eat & drink' is very common.  But trust me, ordering a few glasses of water in between and eating before drinking will definitely reduce the hangover the next day!

3. Pretend you don't have a hangover.  I do this a lot. I get up, maybe go for a walk on the beach or do some yoga, eat some yummy eggs on toast for breakie, even if I don't feel like it.  And generally it makes the hangover hurt a little less. 

4. Drink LOADS of water.  Before you go to sleep, before you start boozing, when you wake up. Essentially after a night on the drink, are bodies are dehydrated and devoid of nutrients.  I feel like this is the rule for every health related issue ever, but drinking plenty of H20 will make you feel a million times better.  Maybe throw a coconut water in there somewhere too.

5. If you're going to drink, make sure it's a worthwhile occasion!  And I don't just mean 'I made it through a tough week'.   Drinking isn't just hard on your body, its tough on your wallet too. If you try to narrow big drinking events down to birthdays or really important occasions, not only will you feel healthier, but you'll have more money in the bank! 

Finally, if a healthy body isn't enough to keep you off the alcohol, just remember moderation is key, and if you don't drink to excess, you won't have to waste a day hungover in bed!

V x 

Guilt Free Caramel Popcorn

Netflix and chill are not the same without popcorn.  I'm not typically someone who goes for caramel popcorn, I usually opt for buttery, salty goodness. But this twist on caramel popcorn is so yummy, even the savoury addicts won't be able to resist. And the best part is, it's actually quite good for you!

Coconut sugar, for those of you who haven't tried this sugar alternative yet, has a warm caramel flavour.  Although relatively low in nutrients, coconut sugar is packed with potassium. Eat up to minimise post workout cramps.  

TIME: 10 mins

SERVES: 2 people

INGREDIENTS: 

1/2 cup pop corn kernels 

75 grams butter OR 2 tbs coconut oil

1 heaped tbs coconut sugar 

METHOD: 

Pop the kernels, either with an air popper, or in a heated pan.  You should get a large bowl of popcorn out of this!

In a small pan, over a low heat, melt the butter or coconut oil and whisk in the coconut sugar until dissolved.  

Pour over the popcorn and mix in.  

Enjoy! 

V x 

Enigma @ The Palzzao Versace Dubai

Last night I was honoured to experience Vanguard, the first of a four part 'Untold Story' at Enigma - a restaurant that is changing the art of dining, with not only exquisite culinary delights, but a journey of discovery and enlightenment into a tale of the chef's childhood and memories.  QuiQue Dacosta, Michelin star chef, is the genius behind the 12 course concept.  An undeniable leader of avant-garde cuisine in Spain, Dacosta delicately and skilfully crafts gastronomic masterpieces that stun and wow all the senses.

Before I get started on the dining experience, let me just say that the Palazzo Versace itself is beautiful.  Every detail, down to the cushions on the chairs and the champagne flutes, is perfection.  On the walls hang Donatella Versace's original fashion drawings, dating back to her earliest days at the House of Versace. Keep an eye out for the iconic 'Pietra Di Fiume' design of Medusa, tiled into the entrance, and look up to witness the chandelier titled 'Golden Breath', made of individually hand blown glass pipes.  

The dining experience was out. of. this. world.  I have never experienced anything like it. From edible roses, charcoal and leaves, to golden eggs and tomato 'snow', this is truly a delight for the senses.  Every mysterious course that emerged had us slightly confused, then amazed, then delighted. The wonderful waiting staff were there to guide us through the meal, educating us on the concept behind every course and advising on the optimal way to enjoy it.  It's a big call, but I think my favourite was the Foie Gras, served with an individual freshly baked brioche bun.  It was the perfect combination of salty and sweet, delicately decorated with edible rose petals and little balls of lychee gelato. 

I could not recommend this experience more.  I feel so privileged to have tasted such culinary masterpieces, and will probably never look at food the same! Chef QuiQue Dacosta has created a phenomenon, and I hope that one day, my tastebuds and I will be able to relive our evening!  

If you are interested in experiencing Vanguard at Enigma, it is running from January 10th - April 12th, 2016.  Seats are limited so make sure to book in advance.  The 'Ephermal Dining' will continue throughout the year, with different Michelin star Chefs taking centre stage, 3 months at a time.  I don't want to give away all the secrets and wonderful occurrences that unfold throughout the night, so make sure you experience it for yourself! 

V x

Beat The Blues...

As the old Buddy Guy song goes, Damn right, I've got the blues.  Yes, the Happy Sole is not so happy today.  I don't particularly know why.  I think it's a combination of a) my brother leaving back to Cardiff this morning b) realising the holidays are over c) hormones d) work is average at the moment, and e) trying to stay positive despite being engulfed by a lot of negative vibes.  Hear me when I say, this is NOT a post about depression or anxiety; I don't suffer from either of those conditions and by no means am an expert on either matter.  But I'm sure I'm not the only person who feels a bit low at times. 

Although I believe it's healthy to ride out the emotion, sort of let yourself feel it and then move forward, here are some tips to dealing with the blues and perking yourself up a little! 

Be Kind & Smile

Although you really don't feel like it, being kind to others is a great way to improve one's mood.  Even something as simple as letting someone go in front in a grocery line, or stopping the car for someone to cross the road, will make you feel a little better.   It's usually reciprocated with a warm smile, which is bound to defrost even the coldest hearts. 

Bust A Move

Usually when I feel like this, it's due to pent up frustration. I find one way of dealing with frustration is to exercise...hard. There's nothing like throwing around some weights or pounding the pavement, getting a real sweat on, to get those endorphins pumping and make you feel more relaxed.  So next time an issue is really getting to you, whip out those punching gloves and go hell to leather.

Belt Out A Tune

Just like exercise will make you feel better, so will music.  Jamming away to your favourite hits will distract you from the bad times and make you feel free and liberated.  Music soothes the soul, so utilise it's unique abilities and tune out the rest of the world for a little while.  Hell, even throw in a little interpretive dance and get those endorphins pumping again. 

Have A Cuppa

It's true what they say - a cup of tea is like a warm hug for your insides.  When all you need is comfort, recline on the sofa with a steaming cup of peppermint or chamomile tea and really enjoy it. I promise it will make you feel better!

Avoid Social Media

Here's the thing with social media that we ALL need to remember...people only ever post their positives.  The problem is, when we're having a below average day, sitting there scrolling though Instagram and Facebook seeing so & so have gotten engaged, or Cindy got a promotion, or Barry just moved in to his new apartment, we're going to feel worse.  Although we may be overjoyed for Cindy or Barry, there's still that lingering feeling of 'I'm not doing as well as everyone else'.  The best thing to do it avoid social media for a while, read a book instead, or throw yourself into your work. Or better yet, colour in! Distraction is the best way to escape your negative thoughts and just get on with things.  

Finally, remember that this will pass.  Everyone goes through stages of feeling low, whether they choose to admit it on social media or not.  All it takes is a bit of positivity and assuring you get on with things, not letting negativity overwhelm you.  Some days you do yoga and drink green smoothies, other days you don't want to get out of bed.  That's OK. Life's all about balance. 

Keep Smiling.

V x 

Massaged Kale & Apple Salad

We all know that Kale is good for us.  Being accurately labelled as a 'Super Food', Kale boasts an impressive CV, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties thanks to the power house of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals it provides.  Incorporating this lean mean green machine into your weekly diet will aid in digestion (thank you fibre), fight off common colds and have you feeling fab!   

This salad is a bit of a hit in my family and is not only delicious, but super great for you.  I'm going to be honest, kale chips make me want to gag, but this crunchy salad is refreshing and zingy (also goes nicely with steamed salmon). 

TIME: 15 minutes 

SERVES: 4 people

INGREDIENTS:

1 bunch of curly kale (approx. 8 - 10 stems)

1 green apple

1 red onion 

1/2 cup grated parmesan

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 

juice of 2 lemons 

2 tsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp wholegrain mustard 

salt & pepper

METHOD: 

Remove the stems of the kale and roughly chop into bite size pieces, then wash & strain it

Slice the apple into matchstick pieces (about 5mm thick) and the red onion into thin slices

In the bottom of a large bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, mustard and season with salt & pepper

Pour the kale on top of the dressing, then get messy and massage the kale into the dressing, making sure every leaf is covered

Mix in apple and onion slices, then sprinkle with grated parmesan

This is often better after being left (in the fridge) for a couple of hours, as the kale has time to tenderise

Serve with some yummy steamed salmon and baby potatoes for a nutritious meal!

Obviously this salad can be adapted to suit your tastes and nutritional requirements, would be fab with goats cheese or pomegranate or walnuts mixed in.  It's also great as left overs, I always make too much so I can take it to work the next day! 

Please don't KALE my vibe! 

V x 

Seven Layer Dip

Post-holiday blues are starting to kick in and I want to feel like I'm on holiday again, even if only for one snack! This 7 layer dip is actually one of the easiest and yummiest things to make, and it's actually quite good for you! I've been known to make it for dinner, it's the perfect movie night snack.  My friends rave about this and I'm obliged to bring it along to most social gatherings, so here's the recipe to make it yourself! Trust me, you won't be disappointed! 

TIME: 20 minutes 
SERVES: party of 10 (or one very hungry girl)

INGREDIENTS:

1 head of lettuce, washed and chopped finely
1 can of low-sodium refried beans
2 ripe avocados, mashed
1 cup sour cream 
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered 
1 cup grated orange cheddar cheese
4 tbsp sliced spring onions 

METHOD:

Find a glass dish with about 1.5 inches depth

Evenly spread the chopped lettuce out on the base of the dish

Cover the lettuce with all of the refried beans

Stir a little lemon juice into the mashed avocado (to stop it from browning) and layer it on top of the refried beans

Spread the sour cream out on top of the avocado (make sure to wash your spoon/fork before handling the sour cream to avoid mixing the layers) 

Place the cherry tomatoes on top of the sour cream

Sprinkle cheddar cheese and then sliced spring onions as the final two layers

Enjoy with some corn chips or carrot sticks! 

WARNING: one taste is never enough! 

V x 

Clean Eating - The Opposite of Dirty Eating?

Starting the New Year off on the right foot, many of us will stick to Clean Eating.  Overnight our diets alter, abolishing carbs, sugar and junk food, only to crash and burn a week later and spiral into a binge of all things "naughty". Despite our best intentions, come 10pm all kinds of cravings kick in and we find ourselves in bed with half a block of Cadburys and a packet of ready salted crisps. Then comes the guilt. The overwhelming feeling of failure and the (half-hearted) promise of waking up tomorrow and getting it right the next time.  

In my eyes, healthy eating IS NOT the same as clean eating. What exactly is clean eating? Do you make sure all your food is washed before you touch it? Do you cook with no oils or fats? Do you ONLY eat vegetables and drink water? I think the term Clean Eating is a ploy, designed by the fitness industry to completely mess with our minds. Does it mean that every food or drink NOT classified as clean, is dirty?  No, of course not. But that's not what we're made to believe.  

It's human nature to think of anything that isn't wrong, is right.  We like to think in black and white, because it makes things simpler.  But when it comes to health and healthy eating, we need to start thinking in all colours of the rainbow.

Health is a state of being free from illness or injury (according to the good ol' Oxford Dictionary) but health is so much more than not being sick.    Health is a state of equilibrium and balance physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.  The truth is, if one of these is off balance, everything will be thrown off.  So we need to try and achieve balance in all aspects of life. 

For example...

Imagine the person who eats 100% "clean" - nothing but vegetables, water, lean proteins and fruit (because according to some "clean eating" guidelines, grains are the devil). Sure, physically they'll look slim, but emotionally they're locked in an obsessive relationship with food, similar to an eating disorder, and most probably are not happy.  Chances are, things are going to start going wrong. Anxiety will play a huge factor in their daily lives. Relationships will suffer. Eventually they will get sick because their diet isn't really that great. And despite what it looks like on the outside, that person is NOT HEALTHY. 

On the contrary, the person who eats well most of the time, but isn't afraid of a sociable glass of wine or piece of Cadbury's chocolate here and there.  They are mindful with their food choices but don't think too much about food, because they have other things going on in their lives. They are relatively sociable (hence the sociable wines), workout when they can and are pretty laid back. Sure, this person might not look like GiGi Hadid as they walk down the beach, but they are HEALTHY.  

What I'm trying to say is it's very hard to maintain scenario one, it's too extreme.  Extremes are not good for the body, they send us into survival mode.  The best thing is to be balanced.  Small tips of balance are relatively easy for the body to handle.  But going extreme (like cutting out all carbs, sugar and junk food) will send us into turmoil.  

So in the New Year, be kinder to your body.  Ease into a healthier diet.  Don't beat yourself up about one bad meal or "dirty" food choice. Just carry on, evolve, and do the best you can.  

I'm now off to find some ready salted crisps....

V x