Food and Nutrition

Have you ever come across the Southeast Asian treasure named Rambutan or Nephelium lappaceum? Esteemed for its nutritional richness, this exotic fruit offers a plethora of health benefits, encompassing weight loss facilitation, enhanced digestive function, and heightened resilience against infections. Researchers say adopting a Mediterranean-style diet produces the same benefits as walking 4,000 extra steps per day . Rambutan, a tropical fruit that thrives in regions like Malaysia and Indonesia, is borne on towering trees that can reach heights of up to 80 feet. Its name stems from the Malay term for hair, aptly describing its distinctive appearance. Encased in hairy red and green shells resembling a sea urchin, this golf ball-sized fruit captivates both the eye and the palate. Upon tasting, one discovers the translucent white flesh, which offers a delightful combination of sweetness and creaminess, encompassing a central seed. Now, let us delve into the myriad health benef...

We've all encountered those moments when a grueling day leaves us with an empty fridge, cooking appears laborious, and the most apparent remedy emerges: opting for a takeaway. Takeaways have a tendency to transition from being an infrequent treat to becoming a regular emotional support, often enjoyed twice a week. Consequently, it becomes necessary to contemplate the potential consequences: even if the external reflection remains unaltered, does the repetitive reliance on takeaways pose any adverse effects? Scientific evidence suggests a potential association between excessive takeaway consumption and weight gain, although the nature of this relationship is multifaceted. A recent study conducted in 2022 discovered a correlation between the consumption of takeaway-style food within the 24-hour period prior to the survey and an increased body mass index (BMI) among the participants. However, it is essential to approach these findings with caution, as the study did not establish caus...

While fried rice has gained popularity as a staple in Chinese restaurants, it deviates from the traditional notion of typical Chinese cuisine. Rather than being an integral part of the culinary repertoire, this delectable amalgamation of pan-fried rice, eggs, and vegetables is regarded as a distinct standalone dish in Chinese culinary traditions (as referenced in Eating China). This distinction arises from the prevalent practice among Chinese individuals of consuming steamed white rice as an accompaniment to their main meals. Consequently, deliberately incorporating various ingredients into rice during the cooking process deviates from the customary culinary approach observed in the region. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that fried rice did originate in China during the period between 589 and 618 AD. The creation of this dish was likely a practical solution to repurpose day-old rice and utilize leftover ingredients such as onions, shallots, and miscellaneous meat trimmings. Although...