read time 4 minutes

Hello posse, welcome to Posana.

Real quick! Before we jump into today’s topic I wanted to welcome you to this community. This is a newsletter where I aim to bring you a 4-minute read every week to help you build your healthy life. Just 4 minutes, that’s all you need.

Today’s Quick Bites:

• Food as medicine

• A short list of Superfoods, what the science says, and how to use them

• My thoughts on GoMethodology

Food as Medicine

Growing up, I experienced two distinct worlds of healing. At home, if I had a sore throat, my grandma’s remedy was a spoonful of honey, for sinus congestion- a steam bath with eucalyptus oil. Turmeric was a go-to for coughs and inflammation. These natural, time-honored remedies were an integral part of my upbringing. But outside of my home, the approach was different. Doctors prescribed cough syrup, and my friends reached for Advil for the very same symptoms. I was lucky to experience both Eastern and Western approaches to medicine firsthand.

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to rely on over-the-counter medications. However, I’ve found myself drawn back to the wisdom of my roots, intrigued by the power of food as medicine. Below, I explore the science behind these “superfoods,” commonly used in India and many Blue Zone countries, known for their longevity and health-promoting practices.

Turmeric: The Golden Healer

Turmeric has long been celebrated in Indian households as a cure-all spice. The spice is also a staple pantry item in the Okinawans, a population in Japan known for their longevity.  Popular for its vibrant yellow hue, turmeric is packed with the polyphenol curcumin, a compound that boasts potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Traditionally, turmeric is used for everything from soothing a sore throat to reducing skin inflammation.

What the science says: Studies show that curcumin can reduce inflammation at the molecular level, helping to ease symptoms of arthritis, digestive issues, and certain chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. It has also been linked to improving brain function and potentially lowering the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

How to use it: Turmeric can be incorporated into your daily routine by adding it into soups, curries, or teas like the popular “golden milk”. Remember to add a crack of black pepper when consuming turmeric to increase bioavailability and absorption by up to 2,000 times.

Ginger Root: Nature’s Digestive Aid

Ginger root is another powerful pantry ingredient in both Indian and Ayurvedic medicine. Known for it’s spicy flavor and warming properties, ginger has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, particularly digestive issues and nausea.

What the science says: Ginger is packed with gingerol, a bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research supports its use in alleviating nausea, reducing indigestion, and easing menstrual pain. It’s also known for it’s anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce muscle pain and soreness and GI health as one study found improvements in glucose homeostasis, and intestinal integrity.

How to use It: Fresh ginger can be grated into teas, smoothies, or stir-fries. For digestive support or to ease a sore throat, make a ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger in hot water with lemon and honey. Ginger also pairs well with garlic in savory dishes for a flavorful and health-boosting combination.

Amla: The Vitamin C Powerhouse

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, This small, green fruit is incredibly rich in Vitamin C- one of the highest natural sources available.

What the science says: Amla is one of the richest sources of Vitamin C, containing 20 times more than an orange, and can help your body fend off infections. This potent antioxidant helps boost immunity, promotes skin health, and supports digestion. Studies suggest that amla can also improve heart health by reducing cholesterol and supporting liver function.

How to use it: Amla is often consumed as juice or in dried form. You can add it to smoothies, sprinkle it on salads, or take it as a supplement.

As I reflect on my journey from childhood to adulthood, I realize the profound connection between what we eat and how we heal. Whether it’s a spoonful of turmeric, a slice of ginger root, or a dollop of honey, the food we choose can have a powerful impact on our health. By embracing the healing power of food, we not only nourish our bodies but also tap into the ancient wisdom that has kept generations thriving.

My thoughts on GoMethodology

Meal delivery services are gaining popularity. The main problem identified: people are too busy to plan, cook, and feed themselves the nourishing meals they want at home. The solution: take the hassle away, save people time, and bring the nourishing meals right to their doorstep. GoMethodology is a meal delivery service on the ethos of using food as medicine. The company strives to create a weekly delivery service that provides meals comprised of “200+ plants per week and 25+ grams of fiber per day for optimal health”. Browsing their landing page, I appreciate the variety of meal options offered, including vegan, seafood + vegan, and meat + seafood combinations. Meals like the Brain Health Bangkok Salmon Bowl or the Tranquility Earl Grey Chia Parfait emphasize the functionality of the ingredients, tailoring each dish to support specific health goals. Questions like “What are the ingredients in the meals?” and “What’s the sodium content of each plate?” naturally come to mind. The website lacks transparency when it comes to listing ingredients and micronutrient information, focusing more on macros like calories, protein, fats, carbs, and fiber. With the service priced at over $500 a week, it reinforces the notion that clean eating is still a luxury for many.

I hope you enjoyed this newsletter.

To your health and happiness,

The Posana Team