Inspired by Alicia Silverstone's "The Kind Diet" and Michael Pollan's "In Defense of Food," we want to experience the vegan lifestyle to improve our health, boycott animal suffering, and reduce our carbon footprint.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Phyto attacks!

This is not your dog Fido.  This is the attack of the phyto-estrogens!  They are in all kinds of grains, fruits, seeds, beans, and herbs that you ingest every day.
Is that bad?  Not necessarily.  Like I mentioned yesterday, use everything in moderation and you'll probably be good to go. 
What are phytoestrogens?  They're chemicals in plants that mimic the effects of estrogen.
Any foods I should avoid?  The verdict is still out on whether high dosages of phytoestrogens are good or bad for you.  They've been used throughout history to alleviate menstrual and menopausal symptoms.  Foods especially high in phytoestrogens are soy and seeds, like flax.  I eat at least 2Tbsp of flaxseed a day.
Is it good for you?  Some have found phytoestrogens can reduce your risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.
Read more:
http://www.dietaryfiberfood.com/phytoestrogen.php
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phytoestrogens
http://www.nobreastcyst.com/phyto.html


Eating Journal:
-oatmeal with raisins, granola, flaxseed
-quinoa cake with avocado/corn salsa, spanish brown rice, braised kale
-Strauss ice cream, chocolates
-leftover Patxi's pizza slice
-brownies made with pumpkin (not as good as I had hoped)

Exercise Journal:
-25 min strength training & stretching
-15 min walk after lunch
-cleaned apartment and scrubbed the grill

1 comment:

  1. Jerry Seinfeld's wife has a whole cookbook about sneaking veggies into regular foods & desserts. But pumpkin brownies are a no go?

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