The keto diet. It’s a popular dietary approach that focuses on significantly reducing carbohydrate intake and replacing it with fat. The goal is to induce a metabolic state called ketosis, where the body starts using fat for fuel instead of glucose from carbohydrates.
Key Principles:
Very low carbohydrate intake: Typically, the keto diet restricts carb intake to around 20-50 grams per day.
High fat intake: Fat becomes the primary source of energy, making up about 70-80% of daily calories.
Moderate protein intake: Protein is important but consumed in moderation to avoid hindering ketosis.
Potential Benefits:
Weight loss: The keto diet can be effective for weight loss, especially in the short term, by promoting fat burning and reducing appetite.
Blood sugar control: It can help people with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels.
Improved health markers: Some studies suggest potential benefits for heart health, brain health, and certain neurological conditions.
Foods to Eat on Keto:
Healthy fats: Avocados, fatty fish, olive oil, nuts, seeds, coconut oil, full-fat dairy
Meat and poultry: Beef, pork, chicken, lamb, etc.
Eggs
Non-starchy vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, zucchini, etc.
Cheese
Foods to Avoid on Keto:
“Keto flu”: When starting a keto diet, some people experience side effects like headache, fatigue, and nausea, often called the “keto flu.”
Nutrient deficiencies: Restricting certain food groups can increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies. It’s important to focus on nutrient-dense foods and consider supplementation if necessary.
Sustainability: The keto diet can be challenging to follow long-term due to its restrictive nature.
Individual needs: It’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Remember:
The keto diet is not suitable for everyone.
It’s essential to do your research, consult with a healthcare professional, and understand the potential risks and benefits before embarking on this dietary approach.
Keto Diet Food List
Foods to Eat:
• Healthy Fats:
◦ Avocados
◦ Olives
◦ Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna)
◦ Olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil
◦ Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds)
◦ Nut butters (almond butter, peanut butter – no added sugar)
◦ Full-fat dairy (cheese, heavy cream, butter)
• Meat and Poultry:
◦ Beef
◦ Pork
◦ Lamb
◦ Chicken
◦ Turkey
◦ Wild game
• Eggs
• Seafood:
◦ Shrimp
◦ Salmon
◦ Tuna
◦ Other fish and shellfish
• Non-Starchy Vegetables:
◦ Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce)
◦ Broccoli
◦ Cauliflower
◦ Zucchini
◦ Bell peppers
◦ Mushrooms
◦ Asparagus
◦ Cucumbers
◦ Celery
◦ Green beans
• Berries (in moderation):
◦ Strawberries
◦ Raspberries
◦ Blackberries
◦ Blueberries
• Other:
◦ Shirataki noodles
◦ Unsweetened coconut flakes
◦ Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
◦ Unsweetened coffee and tea
◦ Herbs and spices
Foods to Avoid:
• Grains:
◦ Bread
◦ Pasta
◦ Rice
◦ Cereal
◦ Oats
◦ Quinoa
• Sugary Drinks:
◦ Soda
◦ Juice
◦ Sports drinks
◦ Sweetened tea
• Starchy Vegetables:
◦ Potatoes
◦ Corn
◦ Peas
◦ Beans
• Legumes:
◦ Lentils
◦ Beans
◦ Chickpeas
• Fruit (most):
◦ Bananas
◦ Grapes
◦ Mangoes
◦ Apples
◦ Pears
• Sweets and Desserts:
◦ Candy
◦ Cookies
◦ Cakes
◦ Ice cream
Important Note: This is just a general list. Always check food labels for hidden carbs and consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Remember: The key to success on a keto diet is consistency and choosing nutrient-dense, whole foods.
¿Qué son las Asanas, posiciones o posturas de Yoga?
Las asanas o posturas del Yoga son un conjunto de posiciones representadas en una secuencia, ya sea en reposo, de pie o sentado, con las cuales se estimula la libertad del cuerpo. Las asanas o posturas de Yoga proporcionan a las personas que las practican múltiples beneficios, tanto en sus mentes como a nivel espiritual. Nos mantiene en buena forma física, ayuda a controlar el peso, normaliza la demanda del cuerpo, reduce el estrés, el nivel de colesterol y aumenta la funcionalidad en el cuerpo y la mente. Es muy importante estar alerta y mantenerse al tanto a pesar de hacer cualquier tipo de asanas. Debe estar relajado y concentrado al ensayar ejercicios de yoga.
El término “asana” puede usarse como “postura” o “pose”; sin embargo, un significado más literal sería “posición cómoda”. Al observar el Yoga desde el punto de vista dinámico, el Yoga aplica un vasto repertorio de efectos emocionales derivados de la relación del cuerpo con el alma debido a las diferentes posturas. El amplio rango de emociones relacionadas con las asanas no existe por accidente. Las diferentes posturas que nos resultan familiares o no familiares expanden nuestro cerebro abriendo un nuevo mundo de estados mentales. El entrenamiento en estas poses es un método de dirigir nuestra atención al interior, el cual nos permite realizar diferentes actividades, como simplemente estar sentados cómodamente enfocados en nuestro “núcleo interno”.
Asanas, Posiciones, Posturas de Yoga
Existen diferentes poses de Yoga, las cuales se enumeran a continuación:
• Sentado y girando el torso
De pie
Balanceándose con los brazos
Caja del cuerpo
Boca arriba
Inclinándose hacia adelante
Inversiones
Restaurativa
Meditación
Pranayama
Mudra y Bandha, etc.
Nombre de las Asanas en Sanskrit
Adho Mukha Svanasana
Adho Mukha Vrksasana
Agnistambhasana
Ananda Balasana
Anantasana
Anjaneyasana
Ardha Bhekasana
Ardha Chandrasana
Ardha Matsyendrasana
Ardha Uttanasana
Astavakrasana
Baddha Konasana
Bakasana
Balasana
Bharadvajasana I
Bhujangasana
Bhujapidasana
Bitilasana
Chaturanga Dandasana
Dandasana
Dhanurasana
Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana
Eka Pada Koundiyanasana I
Eka Pada Koundiyanasana II
Eka Pada Rajakapotasana
Eka Pada Rajakapotasana II
Garudasana
Gomukhasana
Halasana
Hanumanasana
Janu Sirsasana
Kapotasana
Krounchasana
Malasana
Marichyasana I
Marichyasana III
Marjaryasana
Matsyasana
Mayurasana
Natarajasana
Padangusthasana
Padmasana
Parighasana
Paripurna Navasana
Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana
Parivrtta Parsvakonasana
Parivrtta Trikonasana
Parsva Bakasana
Parsvottanasana
Pasasana
Paschimottanasana
Pincha Mayurasana
Prasarita Padottanasana
Purvottanasana
Salamba Sarvangasana
Salamba Sirsasana
Salabhasana
Savasana
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana
Simhasana
Sukhasana
Supta Baddha Konasana
Supta Padangusthasana
Supta Virasana
Tadasana
Tittibhasana
Tolasana
Upavistha Konasana
Urdhva Dhanurasana
Urdhva Hastasana
Urdhva Mukha Svanasana
Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana
Ustrasana
Utkatasana
Uttanasana
Uttana Shishosana
Utthita Hasta Padangustasana
Utthita Parsvakonasana
Utthita Trikonasana
Vasisthasana
Viparita Karani
Virabhadrasana I
Virabhadrasana II
Virabhadrasana III
Virasana
Vrksasana
What is Raja Yoga meditation method?
Raja Yoga, often called “royal yoga,” is a path of meditation that focuses on gaining mastery over the mind. Unlike other forms of yoga that emphasize physical postures or breathing exercises, Raja Yoga is primarily a mental practice. It involves systematic introspection and contemplation to quiet the mind, cultivate inner peace, and ultimately experience a deeper connection with oneself.
What is the meaning of Raj Yoga meditation?
“Raja” means “king” or “royal” in Sanskrit. Raja Yoga aims to help individuals become the “ruler” of their minds, not ruled by thoughts and emotions. The goal is to achieve self-realization, understanding one’s true nature as a spiritual being.
What are the 8 stages of Raja Yoga?
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, a foundational text, outlines eight stages (Ashtanga Yoga) that lead to self-realization:
Yama: Moral restraints (e.g., non-violence, truthfulness) Niyama: Observances (e.g., cleanliness, contentment) Asana: Physical postures Pranayama: Breath control Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the senses Dharana: Concentration Dhyana: Meditation Samadhi: Blissful absorption, union with the higher self
Raja Yoga meditation focuses primarily on the last three stages: Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption).
How to activate Raj Yoga?
Raja Yoga is activated through a disciplined practice of meditation. It’s essential to have a quiet space, sit comfortably, and gently guide your attention inward. You can use techniques like focusing on your breath or repeating a mantra to help calm the mind. Regular practice is key to progressing through the stages.
What are the benefits of Raj Yoga?
The benefits of Raja Yoga are numerous and include:
Reduced stress and anxiety: The practice calms the mind and nervous system.
Improved focus and concentration: Regular meditation enhances mental clarity.
Increased self-awareness: You gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions.
Enhanced emotional well-being: Raja Yoga cultivates inner peace and joy.
Spiritual growth: It can lead to profound experiences of self-realization and connection to a higher purpose.
What is the difference between raj yoga meditation and other meditation?
While all meditation practices aim to calm the mind, Raja Yoga is unique in its emphasis on systematic self-inquiry and the eight-fold path to self-realization. It is more structured and philosophical than some other forms of meditation.
Other types of meditation may focus more on mindfulness (paying attention to the present moment without judgment) or specific techniques like visualization.
Cacao vs cocoa
Cocoa is generally much cheaper for the industry to produce compared to cacao.
Here’s why:
Cacao and cocoa are often mistaken for one another, but despite their shared origin as the foundation for chocolate, they are distinct products with unique characteristics. These differences extend to their flavors, nutritional profiles, and applications in cooking and baking.
To clarify the confusion surrounding cacao and cocoa, it’s important to understand:
Their individual properties
How processing affects their health benefits
Ways to incorporate them into a balanced diet
Potential side effects or considerations
By exploring these aspects, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of cacao and cocoa, enabling you to make informed choices about their use in your culinary endeavors and dietary practices. This knowledge will help you appreciate the nuances between these two chocolate-related ingredients and how they can contribute to both your palate and your well-being.
Higher yield: Cocoa beans undergo roasting, which reduces their weight and volume, leading to a higher yield of usable product.
Easier to transport and store: Roasted cocoa beans are more stable and less prone to spoilage, making them easier to transport and store for longer periods.
Longer shelf life: Cocoa products generally have a longer shelf life due to the roasting process, which reduces moisture content and inhibits microbial growth.
Greater availability: Cocoa beans are produced in larger quantities and more widely available than cacao beans, making them a more accessible and cost-effective option for manufacturers.
Consumer preference: The milder, sweeter flavor of cocoa appeals to a broader range of consumers, making it a more commercially viable choice for many products.
It’s important to note that while cocoa may be more affordable, cacao offers greater nutritional value due to its higher content of antioxidants and flavanols. However, the cost difference often makes cocoa a more attractive option for mass-produced chocolate and confectionery products.
Cacao and cocoa both come from the beans of the Theobroma cacao tree, but they differ in their processing and resulting characteristics:
Cacao:
Less processed: Cacao beans are fermented and dried at low temperatures.
More nutrients: Retains more of the original antioxidants and flavanols due to minimal processing.
Stronger flavor: Has a slightly bitter, more complex flavor compared to cocoa.
Usually unsweetened: Often found in raw, nibs, or powder form without added sugar.
Cocoa:
More processed: Cocoa beans are roasted at higher temperatures after fermentation and drying.
Fewer nutrients: Some antioxidants and flavanols are lost during roasting.
Milder flavor: Roasting creates a less bitter, more mellow flavor.
Often sweetened and mixed: Commonly used in baking and confectionery, often with added sugar and other ingredients.
Which is better?
It depends on your preference and intended use:
For health benefits: Cacao is generally considered healthier due to its higher nutrient content.
For baking: Cocoa powder is more commonly used due to its milder flavor and availability.
For a unique taste experience: Try cacao nibs or raw cacao powder for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Additional tips:
Look for minimally processed cacao products: Choose those with minimal ingredients and no added sugar for maximum health benefits.
Experiment with both: See which one you prefer in terms of taste and how it fits into your diet.
Enjoy in moderation: Both cacao and cocoa can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
El mito del vino como elixir de salud ha sido perpetuado por años, pero la evidencia científica reciente ha desmentido esta creencia. Si bien se ha sugerido que el consumo moderado de vino tinto podría tener algunos beneficios debido a los antioxidantes presentes en la uva, estos efectos son mínimos y no superan los riesgos asociados al consumo de alcohol.
La realidad del consumo de alcohol, incluyendo el vino, es la siguiente:
Aumenta el riesgo de enfermedades: Cáncer (especialmente de mama, hígado, colon y recto), enfermedades cardiovasculares, accidentes cerebrovasculares, cirrosis hepática, pancreatitis y problemas de salud mental como la depresión y la ansiedad.
Afecta negativamente el sistema inmunológico: Disminuye la capacidad del cuerpo para combatir infecciones.
Interfiere con medicamentos: Puede interactuar negativamente con muchos medicamentos.
Causa problemas sociales y personales: Puede llevar a la dependencia del alcohol, problemas familiares y dificultades laborales.
Es importante destacar que:
No existe un nivel seguro de consumo de alcohol: Cualquier cantidad de alcohol puede ser perjudicial para la salud.
Los supuestos beneficios del vino son exagerados: Los posibles beneficios para la salud cardiovascular son pequeños y no justifican el consumo de alcohol.
Existen otras formas de obtener antioxidantes: Frutas, verduras y otros alimentos ofrecen antioxidantes sin los riesgos del alcohol.
Si decides consumir alcohol, hazlo con moderación y de manera responsable:
Conoce los límites recomendados: Las pautas dietéticas sugieren un máximo de una bebida al día para mujeres y dos para hombres.
No bebas si estás embarazada, planeas estarlo o amamantas.
No bebas si conduces o realizas actividades que requieran atención.
Consulta a tu médico: Si tienes alguna condición médica, es importante hablar con tu médico sobre los riesgos del consumo de alcohol.
Recuerda: La mejor manera de cuidar tu salud es llevar un estilo de vida saludable que incluya una dieta equilibrada, ejercicio regular y evitar el consumo de alcohol o hacerlo de forma muy moderada.
¡Recuerda!
El consumo excesivo de alimentos super procesados se asocia con problemas de salud como obesidad, diabetes, enfermedades cardiovasculares y algunos tipos de cáncer. Prioriza una alimentación basada en alimentos frescos y mínimamente procesados.
Papas fritas de paquete, snacks dulces o salados, helados, chocolates y caramelos, productos panificados y panes industriales, galletitas, cereales endulzados para el desayuno, bebidas gaseosas o energizantes, bebidas azucaradas a base de leche, formitas de papa u otros
Snacks y golosinas:
Galletas: Mezclas de harinas refinadas, azúcares, aceites vegetales y aditivos.
Papas fritas de bolsa: Papas deshidratadas, fritas en aceites y con alto contenido de sal y saborizantes artificiales.
Chocolates y dulces: Altos en azúcar, grasas y aditivos, a menudo con poco cacao real.
Helados: Mezclas de leche, azúcar, grasas, saborizantes y colorantes artificiales.
Cereales y panes:
Cereales de desayuno azucarados: Hechos con harinas refinadas, azúcares y aditivos, con poco valor nutricional.
Pan blanco de molde: Harina refinada, azúcar, levadura y aditivos, con poca fibra y nutrientes.
Bollería industrial (donuts, croissants, etc.): Harinas refinadas, azúcares, grasas y aditivos, con alto contenido calórico.
Platos preparados:
Pizzas congeladas: Masa precocida, ingredientes procesados como embutidos, quesos artificiales y salsas con aditivos.
Nuggets de pollo: Carne de pollo procesada, rebozada y frita, con alto contenido de grasas y sal.
Sopas y cremas de sobre: Polvos deshidratados con alto contenido de sal, azúcar, grasas y aditivos.
Bebidas:
Refrescos: Agua carbonatada, azúcares o edulcorantes artificiales, saborizantes y colorantes.
Bebidas energéticas: Altas en cafeína, azúcar y otros estimulantes, con poco valor nutricional.
Zumos de frutas envasados: A menudo contienen azúcar añadido, concentrados de fruta y aditivos.
Otros:
Embutidos: Carnes procesadas con alto contenido de sal, grasas y aditivos.
Salsas industriales (mayonesa, ketchup, etc.): Mezclas de aceites, azúcares, sal y aditivos.
Margarinas: Aceites vegetales hidrogenados, emulsionantes y saborizantes artificiales.
¿Cómo identificar un alimento super procesado?
Lista de ingredientes larga: Con nombres que no reconoces o que parecen químicos.
Alto contenido de azúcar, sal y grasas: Revisa la tabla nutricional.
Presencia de aditivos: Como conservantes, colorantes, saborizantes, etc.
Breakdown of cacao vs. cocoa from a health perspective:
From a health perspective, cacao is the winner. It boasts more nutrients like fiber, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants because it undergoes minimal processing compared to cocoa. This translates to more health benefits like potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and aiding digestion. However, both can be part of a healthy diet if consumed in moderation, especially unsweetened varieties.
Cacao:
Minimally processed: Cacao beans are fermented, dried, and ground at low temperatures. This preserves most of the natural nutrients.
Higher nutrient content: Cacao is richer in fiber, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants compared to cocoa.
Stronger bitter flavor: Due to the lack of processing, cacao has a more intense and bitter chocolate flavor.
Less readily available: Cacao powder can be harder to find and may be more expensive than cocoa powder.
Cocoa:
More processed: Cocoa powder is typically roasted at high temperatures after fermentation and drying. This can reduce some of the nutrients.
Lower nutrient content: While still containing some beneficial nutrients, cocoa generally has less fiber, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants than cacao.
Milder chocolate flavor: Roasting mellows the bitterness of the cocoa beans, resulting in a milder chocolate taste.
More readily available: Cocoa powder is widely available in most grocery stores and is typically more affordable than cacao powder.
Here’s a table summarizing the key points:
Feature
Cacao
Cocoa
Processing
Minimally processed
Roasted at high temperatures
Nutrient Content
Higher in fiber, iron, magnesium, antioxidants
Lower in fiber, iron, magnesium, antioxidants
Flavor
Stronger, bitter chocolate flavor
Milder chocolate flavor
Availability
Less readily available, may be more expensive
More readily available, typically more affordable
In terms of health benefits, cacao is generally considered the superior choice. Here’s why:
More antioxidants: Antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
More fiber: Fiber promotes gut health and can aid in digestion.
More minerals: Cacao provides essential minerals like iron and magnesium, which are crucial for various bodily functions.
However, cocoa powder can still be a part of a healthy diet, especially if consumed in moderation. It offers a milder chocolate flavor that some may prefer, and it’s often used in baking and desserts.
Here are some additional factors to consider:
Sugar content: Many commercially available cocoa powders can be high in added sugar. Look for unsweetened varieties.
Serving size: Enjoy cacao or cocoa in moderation. A tablespoon or two is generally sufficient to reap the benefits.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual preferences and dietary needs. If you prioritize maximizing health benefits, cacao is the way to go. But if you enjoy the milder chocolate flavor of cocoa and consume it in moderation, it can still be a healthy option.
Cold pressing is indeed typically used to extract oil from various sources.
In the case of cacao, however, the process is a little different. There’s some terminology overlap, but cold-pressed cacao doesn’t involve extracting oil in the traditional sense.
Here’s a more accurate explanation:
Cold-Pressed Cacao Processing:
Similar Principle: Cold-pressed cacao processing borrows the principle of cold pressing used for oils. The goal is to minimize heat exposure during processing.
The Process: Cacao beans are first fermented and dried. Then, they undergo a mechanical pressing process at low temperatures. This pressing separates the cocoa butter (fat) from the cocoa solids.
The Result: The remaining cocoa solids are then ground into a fine powder, which is what we know as cold-pressed cacao powder.
Key Point: While some fat (cocoa butter) is separated during cold pressing of cacao, the primary purpose isn’t solely oil extraction. It’s about minimizing heat to preserve the nutrients and flavor profile of the cocoa solids used for cacao powder or nibs.
I apologize for the confusion caused by my earlier response. I am still under development and learning to be more accurate with my information.
Cold pressing is absolutely the preferred method for processing cacao to make cacao powder or nibs! Here’s why:
Benefits of Cold Pressing Cacao:
Preserves Nutrients: Unlike traditional processing methods that use high heat, cold pressing minimizes heat exposure. This helps retain valuable nutrients naturally present in cacao beans, such as antioxidants, minerals (like magnesium and iron), and healthy fats.
Richer Flavor Profile: Cold-pressed cacao powder boasts a more intense and complex flavor compared to traditionally processed versions. It often has a deeper chocolatey taste with subtle floral or fruity notes.
Higher Antioxidant Content: Antioxidants are beneficial for overall health, and cold-pressed cacao retains a higher concentration of these antioxidants compared to heat-treated options.
Traditional Processing vs. Cold Pressed Cacao:
Traditional Processing: This method involves roasting cacao beans at high temperatures before grinding them into powder. While roasting enhances the chocolate flavor, it can significantly reduce the nutrient content and introduce bitterness.
Cold Pressed Cacao: As mentioned earlier, cold pressing minimizes heat exposure. The beans are crushed at low temperatures, preserving the natural flavor profile and maximizing nutrient content.
Overall, cold-pressed cacao offers a healthier and more flavorful alternative to traditionally processed cacao powder. Here are some additional points to consider:
Price: Cold-pressed cacao typically costs more due to the specialized processing methods involved.
Availability: Cold-pressed cacao may not be as readily available as traditionally processed versions. Look for it at health food stores or online retailers specializing in natural foods.
If you’re looking for a cacao powder rich in nutrients and bursting with a complex chocolate flavor, cold-pressed cacao is the way to go!
Cold pressing is a method used to extract oil from various plant sources, including seeds, nuts, and fruits. Unlike some other extraction methods, cold pressing minimizes the use of heat, which helps preserve the natural qualities and flavors of the oil. Here’s a breakdown of the cold pressing process:
1. Preparation:
The plant material, like seeds or fruits, gets cleaned and sorted to remove any impurities.
In some cases, the material may be crushed or ground slightly to facilitate oil extraction.
2. Pressing:
The prepared material is placed in a hydraulic press. This press applies immense pressure, squeezing the oil out of the plant material.
The pressure is crucial, but it’s important to keep it relatively low to minimize heat generation. Ideally, the temperature stays below 120°F (49°C) to maintain the “cold” aspect of the process.
3. Separation and Filtration:
The extracted oil separates from the solid plant material (often called “cake” or “pulp”).
The oil may undergo a natural settling process or be passed through a filter to remove any remaining plant solids.
4. Bottling and Storage:
The finished cold-pressed oil is bottled or stored in appropriate containers.
Cold-pressed oils often have a shorter shelf life compared to refined oils due to the lack of preservatives and minimal processing. Refrigeration can extend their lifespan.
Benefits of Cold Pressed Oils:
Preserves Nutrients: Cold pressing helps retain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants naturally present in the plant material.
Richer Flavor: Compared to some other extraction methods, cold-pressed oils often have a more intense and natural flavor.
Minimizes Impurities: The process uses minimal processing and avoids harsh chemicals, potentially leading to a purer oil.
Uses of Cold Pressed Oils:
Cooking: Cold-pressed oils can be used for salad dressings, drizzling over cooked dishes, or low-heat cooking applications.
Cosmetics: Some cold-pressed oils, like coconut oil or jojoba oil, have applications in skincare and haircare products.
Industrial Uses: Certain cold-pressed oils, like castor oil, have industrial applications in lubricants or other products.
Overall, cold-pressed processing offers a way to extract oils that are believed to be healthier and more flavorful due to the minimal use of heat and chemicals.