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| Health Conference Registration Open! |
| September 20, 2013 |
On Friday, September 20, Northwest VEG and Adventist Medical Center will host our 4th annual professional conference, Enhancing Health with Plant-Based Nutrition. This conference is aimed at doctors, nurses, dietitians, naturopaths, and all other health professionals who would like to find out the latest information about plant-based diets with respect to clinical nutrition, chronic disease prevention and control, and designing an optimum plant-based diet. Once again, we have a stellar list of speakers with exciting talk titles lined up for this year's health conference including:
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| Race For The Animals - Register Today! |
| June 30, 2013 |
Lace up your shoes and come run or walk an extinct volcano! Enjoy tree shaded trails and lovely views around Mt. Tabor's three reservoirs and the summit. Finish the fun with a post-run/walk picnic and free chair massage! A great time for the whole family! This is a casual, fun event with a friendly spirit of coming together to enjoy beautiful scenery and to make a difference for the animals, the planet and your health! The mission of this fun 5k or 10k run/walk is to generate awareness of a plant-based lifestyle and to raise money for Northwest VEG's education and outreach campaigns. Part of the proceeds will also benefit Out to Pasture Sanctuary! Click here for more information and to register. Interested in becoming a race sponsor? Or volunteering at the event? Please email info@nwveg.org. |
| Ask the RD: Brenda Davis |
| June 1, 2013 |
Brenda Davis is a Registered Dietitian and nutritionist. She is the co-author of 8 books, including Becoming Vegan, Defeating Diabetes, Becoming Raw, and The Raw Food Revolution Diet. We are very excited to announce that Brenda will be presenting at both our Health Conference and Portland VegFest, September 20-22!
Q: What are the best fats and oils for vegetarians and vegans, and is it always better to follow a low fat diet? A: Let's begin with the question of low fat diets always being better. Very low fat diets have been popular among vegetarians because of their proven effectiveness in treating severe coronary artery disease. People often assume that such diets would therefore be the best choice for all vegetarians. But what’s best for healthy vegetarians, particularly growing vegetarian children, can be quite different from what’s best for people with serious chronic disease. Click here to read more. |
| Welfare Ranchers, Wolves, and the Externalization of Costs |
| June 1, 2013 |
by George Wuerthner, ecologist with a special interest in predator ecology
Cows are routinely left to forage without any supervision, making them vulnerable to predators. We continuously hear the livestock industry talking about “problem” wolves—those animals that attack untended livestock. Yet the real issue is “problem ranchers” who externalize one of the costs of doing business—namely operating a livestock operation in a manner that reduces or eliminates predator opportunity. To make an analogy think of how we used to let polluting industries use our rivers as open sewers, often resulting in fish kills and polluted waters that were unfit for swimming and domestic water use. Thankfully, we passed legislation that made many of these industries internalize the cost of production by making it illegal to dump pollutants in our waterways. Thus far, however, we have not applied the same legal requirements upon ranchers who have successfully transferred one of the legitimate business costs of livestock production—namely animal husbandry practices that result in a reduction of predator opportunity—on to the public at large, and on to the backs of predators. Click here to read more. |
| Recipe of the Month: Raspberry Bliss Bars |
| June 1, 2013 |
by Andrea Wyckoff, aka Betty Rawker
This bar tastes just like a jelly-filled donut, in a grain-free, raw vegan sort of way! Come hear Andrea present at our June 16 potluck. Base Layer:
Blend coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, & sea salt together in food processor for 30 to 60 seconds. Add in walnuts, blend. Then add in 9 pitted medjool dates. Press mixture into a wax/parchment lined pan. Set in fridge to firm up. Raspberry Layer: Click here to read more. |
| Dietary Carotenoids Linked to Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes |
| April 30, 2013 |
by Lily Dyke, Contributing Writer
While there are many reasons to adopt a vegan diet, health considerations is one of them. There are various health benefits associated with a vegan diet, largely down to the fact that our diet is lower in total and saturated fat, yet packed with micronutrients. Admittedly we have our critics and we might come under fire from some people for avoiding all animal produce, as potentially this can put us at risk of a deficiency of iron, zinc and vitamin B12; though as we all know, careful food choices and making use of fortified items can turn this into only a theoretical problem. However, our intake of vitamins and minerals from plant foods more than makes up for this, which is why we are less likely to develop heart disease or suffer a stroke. Many people also don’t realize that owing to a high intake of carotenoids from fruit and vegetables we are also at lower risk of developing diabetes. Click here to read more. |
| Master VEG Program Returns June 11 |
| April 30, 2013 |
Registration is now open for the next session of Northwest VEG's highly acclaimed Master VEG Program beginning Tuesday, June 11. This action-packed eight-week program will provide you with in-depth information on a healthy, environmentally-sustainable plant-based diet. Presentations cover plant-based nutrition, the link between diet and chronic disease prevention, the environmental impacts of the foods we grow and eat, the lives of farm animals, animal rights/welfare philosophies, answering the tough questions about plant-based diets, a Food for Life cooking demo and more.
A key component of the program is the service-oriented project, where attendees are expected to contribute at least 16 volunteer hours to a nonprofit organization that concerns itself with one or more of the issues discussed during the course. See nwveg.org/mvp for details and to register. |
| VegFest Speaker Spotlight: Lani Muelrath |
| April 30, 2013 |
By Trista Cornelius, Contributing Writer
After struggling with her weight for 30 years, Lani Muelrath turned to a plant-based diet and exercise to lose 50 pounds. “Our body’s natural state is vitality,” Lani says, “we want to be well.” And yet, it takes effort. Lani explains that we can increase or diminish our body’s potential not only by how we eat, but also by how we move, “or don’t move.” She warns, you can’t out-train a bad diet. Exercise is great, a plant-based diet is great, but one without the other is not enough. Additionally, how you think is important too, “stress also drains our energy reserves.” Lani helps people restore their equilibrium and reclaim vitality through food, fitness, and frame of mind. Her favorite motto is “Change your mind, change your body, change your life.” Click here to read more. |
| Smokey Black Bean Tempeh Burger |
| April 30, 2013 |
As featured in Lani Muelrath's Plant-Based Blueprint
These are perfect for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend! Grab your friends and have some fun experimenting with this versatile recipe. Try switching out the black beans for lentils or pintos, the short rice for long grain or bulgur, the tempeh for tofu, or the sweet potato for any potato you can get your hands on. And don't forget about the spices! Try curries or black-bean spices. The variations are endless! Enjoy!
Click here to read more. |
| Ask the RN: Kerri Zemko |
| April 30, 2013 |
Kerri Zemko, R.N., B.S.N., O.C.N., is an oncology research nurse and PCRM Food for Life Instructor. Visit her on Facebook for more information on her upcoming Food For Life classes. Do you have a health related question? Email us at info@nwveg.org.
Q: I’ve been talking with a dietitian about a weight loss program that restricts carbs and counts them instead of calories as a weight loss strategy. As I’m primarily a vegan – we’re realizing this approach may not work as a lot of vegan sources of proteins are high in carbs. Is there a way to increase protein consumption on a vegan diet and decrease carbs so that I could loose about 20 lbs? Do you have specific recommendations for how I could do this? Or are there other strategies on a vegan diet that could help me loose this weight? A: First, congratulations on wanting a safe approach to weight loss. By consulting with a dietitian, you're more likely to make sure you're getting all the nutrients you need, and to avoid yo-yo extreme dieting, which may contribute to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a contributor to many preventable diseases, not just diabetes. Click here to read more. |
| Ask the RD: Alison Ozgur |
| April 1, 2013 |
Alison is a Registered Dietitian specializing in health and fitness nutrition. She is the co-author of “Go Beyond Good: The Trail to a Lifetime of Health and Vitality!” Do you have a question for Alison? Email us at info@nwveg.org.
Q: I am concerned about the recent media attention to the use of coconut oil and coconut products as a “miracle cure.” It has been suggested that they can boost both energy and immunity as well as be used as a weight loss aid. I know that we are learning that saturated fat isn't as bad as we used to think but what are some healthy and balanced ways I can work coconut oil into my diet? Are there any particular cautions for who should and should not include this kind of saturated fat in their diet? How much saturated fat do I need per day? Are there other health benefits I should know about? Where can I find reputable information that doesn't include fad diets and gimmicks? A: Coconut oil is a hot topic and there is indeed a lot of misinformation being presented. Click here to read more. |
| Rawking Nacho Kale Chips |
| April 1, 2013 |
by Chelsea Davis, Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator and VEG 101 cooking instructor for Northwest VEG
These deliciously crunchy nutrient packed snacks are perfect for anytime of the day and loved by all. If you don't believe us, just try them. We bet you will be on your way to the store for more kale before the oven has even had a chance to cool down. Rawking Nacho Kale Chips:
2. Put half of the kale into a large bowl and pour 1c sauce over it. 3. With your hands, massage the leaves until they are saturated with cheesy goodness. 4. Lay evenly on a mesh dehydrator sheet. 5. Repeat steps 2-4 6. Dehydrate your kale for 6-8 hours on 105 degrees or until crispy. Flip kale half way through to ensure even dehydration. 7. If you don’t have a dehydrator you can bake the kale at 150 degrees for 10 hours. Or if you are the impatient type, you can bake them at 275 for roughly 20 minutes. Makes 7 cups Nachyour Mama’s Cheeze Sauce: Click here to read more. |
| Get to Know YOUR Farmer |
| April 1, 2013 |
by Shari Sirkin, owner of Dancing Roots Farm and member of the Portland Area CSA Coalition
You eat a plant-based diet or are on your way there. But do you know where your food is coming from? How fresh was that head of lettuce you just picked up at the store? If only there was a way to insure that your produce was picked at its peak and didn't have to travel hundreds of miles to get to your plate. Well, if you live in the greater Portland area, you are in luck! The Portland Area CSA Coalition is here to help you connect with your very own farmer who will give you the ability to know how your produce is grown as well as provide you and your family with the freshest, healthiest food around. Click here to read more. |
| Board Spotlight: Kim Thayer, Vice President |
| April 1, 2013 |
We are thrilled to have Kim Thayer as NW VEG's Vice President. Kim is not only a wonderful person, she is passionate about all living beings.
What brought you to adopt a vegan lifestyle? I first stopped eating meat when I was 14. Through the years I reverted back to a pescetarian diet until I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After my cancer diagnosis I realized that I needed to eat more mindfully so I started researching and what I found about the cruelty that occurs even on a vegetarian diet disturbed me so the next day went completely vegan. I changed everything about my life choices. Choosing to live as a vegan is more aligned with my core beliefs; to live compassionately, tread lightly, and do no harm, most importantly to live with a loving heart. Click here to read more. |
| Welcome to our Newest NW VEG Business Supporter! |
| April 1, 2013 |
Love Art! Gallery begun in 2009 as a space to support local artists and has evolved into a unique center which focuses on the trinity of art, music, and healthy foods. Love Art is located at 8036 SE 13th, Portland 97202 and is a cruelty free gallery, owned by vegans. The gallery represents 75+ local artists. We show a wide variety of art including garden art, metal, ceramic, fabric, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, sculpture, woodwork & cards. CHeck them out on
Facebook. NW VEG members receive a 10% discount on purchases between $10 - $200 and 15% on purchases over $200 with your current membership card.Learn about all of Northwest VEG’s Business Supporters at nwveg.org/businesses! |
| New Business Supporter Spotlight: A.N.D Café |
| March 1, 2013 |
By Trista Cornelius, Contributing Writer
We are excited to announce A.N.D Cafe as our newest Business Supporter! A.N.D Café on 5420 East Burnside in Portland offers a relaxing dining experience and a haven for the eco-conscious, gluten intolerant, or stressed out!. The space feels inviting without the clattering, noisy rush of other jam-packed breakfast spots in Portland. Natural light, engaging artwork, a few plants, and a Feng Shui deliberateness to the design create a calming effect. “A.N.D.” stands for “Ashley & Dan,” the creators of this micro restaurant. The kitchen in this inviting space could fit in a closet (no exaggeration), and yet, the four people working there the morning I visited, glided past each other with ease and cheerfulness. Click here to read more. |
| Ask the RN: Kerri Zemko |
| March 1, 2013 |
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Kerri Zemko, R.N., B.S.N., O.C.N., is an oncology research nurse and PCRM Food for Life Instructor. Visit her on Facebook for more information on her upcoming Food For Life classes. Do you have a health related question? Email us at info@nwveg.org.
Q: I have heard that although cruciferous vegetable (Broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, mustard greens, collards, brussel sprouts, etc.) have many cancer-fighting qualities, those with thyroid issues should limit or even avoid these vegetables. Is this true? A: That is a great question. The thyroid gland assembles T3 and T4 from dietary iodine and the non-essential amino acid tyrosine (deficiency of which is almost unheard of, from what I can see). In most parts of the world and in much of history, the primary cause of hypothyroidism (inadequate levels of T4) has been inadequate intake of iodine. Some patients with hypothyroidism develop a goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland that appears as a bulge in the neck. Click here to read more. |
| Vegan Village at The Better Living Show |
| March 1, 2013 |
Come help us celebrate the 5th year of the Vegan Village at the Better Living Show on March 22-24 at the Portland Expo Center. The Better Living Show is the largest Sustainable Lifestyle event in the Northwest. Bigger, better and jam-packed with companies and organizations dedicated to providing the best the plant-based lifestyle has to offer. Amour Vert leads the way in eco-fashion and is co-sponsoring the Vegan Village this year. Frontier Natural Products Co-op is on board to sponsor the Vegan Demo Series at the backyard patio of the Blue Home -- a full sized house showcasing how to do it all green and sustainable. Check out the amazing lineup. Bring friends and introduce them to this lifestyle with such welcoming products like Manitoba Harvest Hemp, Mamma Chia beverage, Food for Life bread, Taza Chocolate, Townshend's Tea and more.
Northwest VEG will be tabling all weekend in the Vegan Village so if you are interested in volunteering please contact Chelsea Davis at volunteer@nwveg.org. You can also visit our Volunteer Page to learn about this and other current volunteer opportunities. Click here to read more. |
| VegFest Planning Committee Volunteers Needed! |
| March 1, 2013 |
Portland VegFest 2013 is set to take place this September 21 and 22 and we need your help to make it even better than last year! For information on our next meeting please contact Bonnie at vegfest@nwveg.org |
| Rawk Lava |
| March 1, 2013 |
by Aaron Ash, author of the new cookbook Gorilla Food: Living and Eating Organic, Vegan and Raw
Rawk on with Aaron Ash at our upcoming Eastside Portland potluck on Sunday, March 17. There will be FREE samples! Gorilla Food's raw vegan take on a baklava--the Greek and Middle Eastern layered pastry treat. The bars come out flaky, sweet, and super delicious. Rawk on! Pastry Sheets:
2. In a blender, process all ingredients until smooth. Click here to read more. |