Anti-Inflammatory Friday 7-5-2024

Happy 248th Birthday, America!
I hope you had a safe, relaxing Independence Day (that hopefully included some delicious treats).

Anti-Inflammatory HEALTH TIP

Let's boost your gut health!
Eating fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha are a good way to boost your gut health. Why? Because they're packed with probiotics (i.e. good bacteria that help balance your gut microbiota).
3 Ways to Incorporate Fermented Foods:
Include Sauerkraut in Your Meals: Top your salads, sandwiches, or grain bowls with a spoonful of sauerkraut. It adds a crunchy texture and a tangy flavor while boosting your gut health.
Sip on Kombucha: Replace sugary drinks with kombucha, a fermented tea that’s not only refreshing but also beneficial for your gut.
Enjoy Kimchi as a Side Dish: Add kimchi to your meals as a spicy, flavorful side dish. It's perfect with rice, noodles, or even as a topping for avocado toast.

Anti-Inflammatory RECIPE

Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steaks with Chimichurri Sauce
Serves: 4

Ingredients:
For the Portobello Steaks:

• 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Grilled Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips

• 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds

• 1 red onion, sliced into rings

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Portobello Steaks: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
   Place the Portobello mushrooms in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the mushrooms are well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, for best results.

2. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to mix.
   Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while stirring until the sauce is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Grill the Vegetables: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
   In a large bowl, toss the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   Place the vegetables on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and set aside.

4. Grill the Portobello Steaks: Place the marinated Portobello mushrooms on the grill, gill side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and juicy.
   Baste the mushrooms with the remaining marinade while grilling to enhance the flavor.

5. Serve: Arrange the grilled Portobello mushrooms on a serving platter and top each with a generous spoonful of chimichurri sauce.
   Serve with the grilled vegetables on the side.

Anti-Inflammatory MOTIVATION

"We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw.

Never stop having fun.
Never stop being active.
Play isn’t just for children – being active and playful keeps your mind and body young.
It does this in two ways: First, it reduces stress and inflammation. And second, it increases the joy in life.
Make time for play each day.