food and mood

we ofthen eat to calm down or cheer up when we're feelings stressed or depressed.

now new research suggests there's a reason: food changes out brain chemistry.
these changes powerfully influence our moods, but can certain foods really make us feel better? nutrition  experts say yes,
 but what should we eat and what should we avoid? here are the foods that work the best, as well as those that can make a bad day worse.

food and mood - we ofthen eat to calm down or cheer up when we're feelings stressed or depressed. (you have to read this great article)

Choose Candied Bacon For Your Next Party

By Lisa Ellis


There is nothing wrong with having a special treat, even if there is nothing to celebrate. Snacks of today are not just sweet or savory but sometimes a wonderful combination of many flavors. To some people, candied bacon seems more like a fancy dessert that is a little salty and can be carried anywhere.

Though it may sound bizarre, the truth is that many of us had this in one form or another. Most common is with pancakes or waffles, when the syrup would run over into the bacon or sausage. Since most sausage links or patties have to be cooked, they are not as easy to carry around as bacon strips.

Pork tends to have a light taste that is enhanced by flavorings that are spicy or sweet. This is why many pork entrees have a sauce or marinade that is sugar or honey based. Adding savory to the mix enhances the flavor profile and makes it seem more like an entree and not dessert. However, some restaurants serve bacon candy as an appetizer or dessert.

The average bacon candy recipe calls for thick cuts that have been smoked with applewood. While hickory is good also, mesquite or pepper may be too overpowering. Then comes the glaze, which normally consists of maple flavored syrup, cinnamon or pie spice, with just a sprinkle of salt. For more crunch, light or dark brown sugar may be used instead of the syrup.

For those making this for the first time, it may help to go easy on the dry ingredients. Just get a nice even coat and place in the oven using the broil setting for a few minutes. Let drain and cool so that the top will be sticky and flavors will come to life.

These make a nice gift basket for anyone that likes to try unusual items or has an affinity for sweet snacks. More people are serving these at parties and other social gatherings as either finger food or to wind down from a filling meal. When stored in cool temperatures, this type of food can keep for a few days when sealed in an airtight bag or food storage container.

For those who are health conscious, this treat is full of more protein than most sugary or processed snacks. Lean pork is one of the best things anyone can eat in moderation. A bacon slice without excess fat is also easier to cook, as there is less splatter. This recipe also allows for substitutions.

Turkey and meatless alternatives can be used, as some types have the same crispy texture as regular bacon. For the glaze, honey or agave nectar syrup makes a nice substitute and is less likely to cause sugar spikes. Spicy food fans like to add a bit of ground cayenne or chipotle pepper for a little excitement.

This can be the life of the party when added to a variety of edibles for entertaining. Yogurt based dips or hummus may be eaten with vegetable or grain chips. Those who feel they are indulging may be in for a nice surprise.




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