We are made of nearly 70% water, a drink that was rarely given priority in my childhood. Milk was. And cow's milk was it. How times have changed. We now have oat, almond, cashew, goat, and coconut milks, to name a few, occupying exalted positions in our multifacetted diet.
As a teen, I began drinking tea, Red rose tea, the only tea available on the grocery shelves in 'those days'. Mom drank senna tea and black coffee and nothing else. Both brewed drinks were laced with lots of sugar and cream or milk. For me in the rare instance I drank tea was with orange juice. It seemed to be the only way enjoy the benefits of the one and only tea I drank.
Nothing seemed amiss. Choice did not exists..Milk was never added. It just seemed wrong. At the grocery store, even dog food was in limited supply, occupying only half an aisle. When I left home. I became a dog owner to a rescue about whom I have written. Why I wonder was glucose-fructose in the hamburger- like packages of Dr. Ballard's dog ' dry food? Sugar belongs somewhere, I guess, but not in the main diet of humans and our pets. Would cats tolerate that? They are smarter perhaps?
Coffee is number one for many of us. Not for me, however. I cannot drink it though it was a family favourite, a constant throughout my childhood. ... It is a hot drink commonly offered at parties, conferences, events, the office and of course weddings. Tea is available upon request. Whenever my mom and I shopped I was in charge of grinding a bag of coffee beans, twice, on 'very fine'. I loved the aroma as I closed the bag on its second round. Drinking it was not possible.
Tiramisu is a favourite dessert of mine, an Italian delicacy. Why I adore it I do not know. Coffee is laced in the lady fingers of this delicious dessert. I crave it whenever it is offered. Black coffee which my husband loved is a healthy drink, he was reminded, often. hoping he would continue drinking it. I offered to make it whenever. Millions of people around the world who drink coffee must know something. Recently I discovered that the addition of milk to tea or coffee reduces the benefits of these century's old hot beverages. Lemon juice is my add-in, a recommended choice all around.
With tea, I have found my elixir..Mixing different types for different reasons aids in health. Why eat or drink anything long term if there is no health benefit? Seems reasonable to me. When it is pop time, I drink the healthiest available, a few sips till the food is gone. Sugar is a better choice than other substitutes, lauded by the companies that use them....
Hibiscus and dandelion root, as well as licorice root, black, green and white tea all factor into my menu planning. Hibiscus for high blood pressure is the latest along with dandelion root and licorice root whose taste I dislike. A slow introduction into the diet helps my taste buds become acclimatized to these new tea sensations. A 2-3 bag limit in my mug happens regularly.
Minor changes in the drinks and foods we drink and prepare can result in major changes in overall health. Lemon juice, no salt or soy sauce added are simple changes at can help. And cooking at home is the body's health secret.
Tea, coffee and water are formative tools in our daily diet. Much to learn about these clear drinks. If milk is wanted, drink separately. Choose the milk that benefits. Small changes with dramatic results occur. Simple, clear and clean. That is all.
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