Continuing on the subject of stress, there are many different ways that our body copes with the effects of stress. When mildly stressful events occur, our body kicks into this stress mode to help us deal with it more effectively. Getting stressed out occasionally is one thing, but when stress becomes chronic, it can really take a toll on the body. Some common examples of chronic stress are financial worries, ongoing work demands or marital problems.
If this stress response is turned on all the time, it can tax the body’s immune system. This can leave us feeling lethargic, while it also makes it more difficult to fight diseases. One of the ways we can counteract this stress and support our immune system is through a healthy diet.
A healthy immune system depends on a nutrient rich diet. Being properly nourished is one of the best defenses against illness, especially during stressful times. We tend to rely on sugar and caffeine though, which makes us feel better temporarily but causes more problems in the end. This is a dish I made last year but I continue to make it regularly because it tastes delicious and is full of nutrients.
Lemon Ginger Tahini Sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil (2 tbsp)
1/2 to 1 fresh squeezed lemon
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp ginger, minced
2 tbsp tamari (or organic soy sauce)
1/2 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
Handful of parsley (1/4 to 1/2 cup)
2-4 tbsp water (less for thicker sauce)
2 tsp miso (optional)
Cook a batch of brown rice and steam or saute any vegetables that you would like to add. Celery, broccoli, spinach, Swiss chard, cauliflower, kale, carrots, green beans, onions and peas are all great examples to add to the dish. Mix the sauce in a food processor and stir it in with brown rice and vegetables. Sprinkle grated carrots and beets on top as a garnish as well as sprouts and sesame seeds.
There are many benefits in the sauce alone…
Fresh lemon – liver detoxifier
Parsley – high in calcium
Ginger – anti-inflammatory
Garlic – anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial
Natural soy sauce – aids digestion
Tahini – high in calcium and fibre
Miso – natural probiotic
When you add a multitude of colourful vegetables, this becomes a power packed meal. Enjoy!!!
