In today’s ever-changing world, there are so many “things” to choose from. Often times, too much choice can be overwhelming. This particularly applies to our general health and overall wellness, especially where diet is concerned.
Often times, the word diet is associated with a temporary solution or short-term regimen that leaves us irritated, unsatisfied, guilty and to be honest, quite hungry. In truth, a diet should be what is eaten on a daily basis for a healthy life and not a temporary fad that is sure to not last. Overhauling one’s diet is a lifestyle change. It does not have to be difficult. In fact, it should be looked at as a challenging adventure.
There is a lot of talk these days about a plant-based diet. A plant-based diet is one that focuses on vegetables, whole grains, fruits and legumes. With this type of diet, little to no animal products are consumed, dairy and eggs are slowly eliminated and whole foods are often incorporated. It is a diet that is not only good for health, but supportive of the environment.
Most people’s interpretation of whole foods is wrong. Whole foods are not foods you eat whole, for example not cutting or chopping them, and they are certainly not foods that come from a whole foods type of chain market. Rather, whole foods are foods that come from the earth. Whole foods are foods that are eaten in their natural state – they have not been tampered with, refined or processed. Instead, they come straight from the earth and onto your plate or into your mouth.
Whole foods are good for our body in that it does not have to work hard to digest them as they are free of harmful chemicals and substances. Whole foods allow us to know exactly what we are putting into our bodies, and that knowledge allows us to control calorie intake and take charge of health goals.
Whole foods can be bought daily at a variety of fresh or farmer’s markets across from Phuket. The foods will be fresh, often times free of chemicals, and in their natural state. It is best to eat whole foods within a day or two of purchasing them so you can still experience their natural flavors.
Roadside produce stands are also popular in Phuket, and a good spot to source whole foods. If you have a green thumb, you can try growing some of your own fruits and vegetables. It is very satisfying to eat something straight from your garden and take pride in a fruit or vegetable that you’ve nurtured or grown.
Here at Santosa Detox and Wellness Center, we are extremely proud to launch our new menu based on whole foods. We offer tantalizing, nutritious choices with a wide variety of flavours that offer up optimal nutrients and provide delicious meals.
For more information on our all-new whole foods menu, simply fill out the enquiry form below and one of our dedicated staff members will be in touch.
Turmeric has a peppery, warm and bitter flavour. Known as the main spice in curry, it is without a doubt the most powerful herb on the planet. It’s a strong anti-inflammatory, and is well known for fighting and potentially reversing diseases. Throughout history, turmeric has been used as a healing remedy, a textile dye and a condiment.
Health benefits of turmeric
Turmeric is popular in both the Chinese and Indian systems of medicine, and has been used for centuries in treating a wide variety of conditions including toothache, colic, chest pain and jaundice.
Turmeric is one of the most frequently mentioned medicinal herbs in all of science. In over 6,000 studies, research has shown that the benefits of using turmeric are equal to that of many pharmaceutical medications.
Turmeric’s yellow or orange pigment is called curcumin. Curcumin is turmeric’s primary pharmaceutical agent, and in a wide variety of scientific and medical studies it has been proven to be comparable to potent over the counter and pharmaceutical drugs. Highlighted below are some of the extraordinary benefits of turmeric and curcumin:
A safe yet strong anti-inflammatory
Turmeric is a safe alternative to pharmaceutical medications. It reduces anti-inflammatory conditions without the toxicity that some medications produce
An effective treatment for bowel disease
It’s been proven that turmeric can reduce the inflammation of bowel diseases such as Crohn’s. Turmeric reduces the irritation caused by the thickening of the intestinal wall. Even small doses of turmeric are beneficial.
Relief for rheumatoid arthritis
Due to the fact that turmeric is a powerful antioxidant, it is able to neutralize free radicals in the body. This is important in a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis as free radicals are responsible for all of the joint pain this disease causes.
Improved liver function
In addition to its antioxidant properties, turmeric also increases detoxification systems. This is great news as it aids the liver in detoxifying toxic chemicals from the body.
Cardiovascular protection
Studies have shown that turmeric possibly prevents the oxidation of cholesterol in the body. Oxidized cholesterol is what damages blood vessels and builds up the plaques that can eventually lead to a heart attack or stroke. Turmeric’s ability to prevent the oxidation of new cholesterol may reduce the progression of diabetic heart disease all together.
How to enjoy turmeric
Now that you know some of the important health benefits of turmeric, you might be wondering how to enjoy this super medicinal herb. Here are a few ideas for incorporating the spice into your daily diet, and reaping the benefits of terrific turmeric:
Turmeric is a great compliment to recipes that feature lentils
Add turmeric to egg salad
Season salad dressings with turmeric
Saute cauliflower florets in turmeric
Mix turmeric with brown rice, cumin and coriander for a healthy, flavourful treat
Terrific Turmeric in Phuket
If you are looking to change your diet and incorporate foods and spices, such as turmeric, that are good for you into your daily eating plan, please come visit our wonderful vegetarian & vegan restaurant here at Santosa Detox and Wellness Center. Our chef makes delightful, satisfying dishes from locally grown, fresh produce and ingredients. For further information, simply fill out the enquiry form below.
Have you ever felt just a bit out of sorts, slightly off, but really can’t pinpoint what exactly is wrong? Perhaps there is a specific condition that is disrupting your general quality of life? Are you sluggish? Do you have a hard time focusing? Always low on energy? For some, feeling lousy seems to have become the norm, however, this doesn’t have to be the case. You don’t have to give up on feeling your best again. It’s important not to ignore your inner alarm bells. At its best, feeling bad can be a blessing in disguise as it allows you to reset your engine and correct any imbalances effortlessly. Even if you feel fantastic most of the time, wouldn’t you want to stay that way? Ayurveda has the power and potential to change our lives as it celebrates the uniqueness of each individual as well as helping to bring balance and harmony to our lives.
Defining Ayurveda
“My wish is to give to every client the little subtle awareness how important food is for everyone.
All is made of energies and we are a result of energies contained in our food, in the environment where we live and of other inner and external inputs we receive constantly.
Every person has different needs and the food has to be personalized in a way to be the right “healer”, bringing back the psico-soma balance that makes us stronger and healthy. Observation and caring of ourself is the best approach to get a better lifestyle; let’s forget the concept of a temporary diet that is general good for everybody because everybody has different needs.”
– Mauro, Executive Chef at Santosa
Ayurveda literally means “the science of life.” It’s a centuries old concept that originated in India, and teaches us to tune in to the subtle and obvious indicators that there is room for improvement within our bodies, our minds and our spirits. Ayurveda takes food highly into consideration, and believes the concept of combining foods that digest well together is essential in the understanding of how to eat properly.
What is Ayurveda Diet?
The Ayurveda Diet holds deep in the belief that each food has a distinct combination of energies and tastes. In turn, these energies and tastes have a significant affect on the digestive system and the body as a whole. The Ayurveda Diet offers a simple, direct eating path that is developed for each unique body type. In Ayurveda, these unique body types are referred to as dosha.
The Doshas
Doshas are biological energies found throughout the body and mind. The doshas govern all physical and mental processes, and provide an individual blueprint for each unique body type. Often referred to as mind-body types, the doshas express the blending of physical, emotional and mental characteristics. In a nutshell, the doshas define who you are.
The three Ayurveda Diet doshas are derived from the five elements and are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each individual dosha has a unique set of characteristics designed for our individual bodies. There are several ways to determine your body type, however it can be as simple as taking a quick Ayurvedic quiz. If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of Ayurveda Diet and are interested in knowing your dosha, please take the quiz that is on the table at Santosa Vegan Restaurant. Spend a few minutes answering the questions thoughtfully, and you will find your unique body type immediately.
The Kapha Dosha
The Kapha Dosha encompasses qualities reflecting the elements of the Earth. This dosha governs structure and fluid balance in the body. Kapha controls weight, growth, lubrication for the joints and lungs, as well as formation of the seven tissues.
Typically, Kapha is the largest of body type. Physically, those who are Kapha have wide hips and shoulders, thick wavy hair and good stamina. Mentally, Kapha types tend to be slower at learning things, but have immense memories. Emotionally, Kapha types tend to be loyal, stable and reliable. They are the “rocks” in relationships and friendships.
When the Kapha Dosha is out of balance, people with this body type tend to be prone to sinus congestions and possible infections, poor circulation, and a sluggish digestive system that can easily lead to obesity.
The Pitta Dosha
The Pitta Dosha has qualities reflecting the elements of Fire. This dosha controls all heat, metabolism and transformation in the mind and body. Pitta is responsible for how we digest food, how sensory perceptions are metabolized and how we choose between right and wrong.
Individuals possessing the Pitta Dosha typically are of medium build, and physically have good muscle tone. Pitta often always feel warm, have ruddy complexions and tend to have prematurely graying hair or balding. They are often full of energy and due to their strong digestive systems can eat almost anything. Mentally, Pitta are ambitious and extremely intelligent. Emotionally, Pitta types are passionate perfectionists who have the tendency to become easily irritated.
When the Pitta Dosha is out of balance, individuals can become overstressed; this type is sometimes referred to as the angry workaholic. However, when out of balance, problems arise with inflammatory conditions and digestive problems.
The Vata Dosha
The Vata Dosha’s qualities reflect the elements of Air. This dosha is responsible for all movement in the body and the mind. Vata Dosha controls blood flow, breathing, the elimination of waste and the way thoughts move across the mind. Vata types tend to be the most slim of the three dosha types.
Physically, Vata Dosha types are thin with bony structures, and find it difficult to gain weight. They often feel cold, have dry skin and hair, and have little to no muscle tone. Mentally, the Vata are very creative although they do learn and forget rather quickly. Emotionally, they are ever the enthusiast, but tend to become anxious quite easily.
When the Vata Dosha is out of balance, poor digestion ensues with lots of bloating and constipation. Vata types are easy to catch cold and suffer from insomnia and fatigue.
Choose from the menu
At Santosa Vegan Restaurant, each and every one of our dishes is labeled with a dosha type. When choosing a dish based on your dosha type, you will come into balance. Our executive chef Mauro Anzideo painstakingly follows the tradition of Ayurveda and in doing so, provides a personalized vegan dining experience that is not only nutritious, but simply delicious.
If you are interested in taking The Dosha Quiz and experiencing your own Ayurveda Diet, please contact us at +66 (0) 76 330 600 or fill out the form below. We wish Santosa to become your start of healthy living, and it is our aim to inspire your lifestyle.
Full fast is a full cleanse program specially designed to enable maximum results. You will have no food / no juice but only drink water with cleanses drinks and nutrition supplements. Participants of this program will be subjected to the most powerful, yet natural, body detoxification processes. This program is suitable for those who have detoxification experience and are determined to go deeper for cleanse. A thorough pre-cleanse is also important for the full fast.
Juice fast is a cleanse program to nourish and detoxify the body by drinking fresh fruits and vegetable juice. The key is to hydrate and nourish your cells with the correct vitamins, enzymes, minerals and antioxidants. Guests participating in the Juice Fast Program have higher energy levels allowing them to take advantage of the various activities available at Santosa Detox & Wellness Center.
Raw food fast brings together nutritional science and holistic therapies. This program is recommended for guests looking for a long lasting and sustainable post program experience. With a balanced and nutritionally delicious set raw food menu in addition to the regular fasting supplements and a complete program of daily therapies, including regular cleansing sessions, this program is designed to optimize the detoxification process in every way. A raw food diet has shown to increase energy levels, which is great for taking part in many of Santosa’s activities.
When dieting and invited to an even typical thoughts might be:
“What am I gonna eat? Celery stick? No way, there will be the best selection of my favorite food…”
“Should I say yes to the mayo-chipotle-double sauce-veggie- -pancake-with-french-fries-on-the-side? It’s for tonight only…”
Every event could seem perfect to splurge, but the consequence can be the worst kind of party affliction: the FOOD HANGOVER.
Here some easy-to-follow tips to save you, so you will learn how to say no to that extra slab of creamy, spicy, luscious, fluffy yummy dip.
1- Go to sleep earlier the night before the party and rest at least for seven hours
Rest up at least for seven or eight hours. When we sleep less than that, we have the tendency to eat more than what we need and to choose higher fat foods. This will have a consequence on our choices, when in front of a buffet.
2- Be a food detective
We have the tendency to consume the most of the food we first pile onto our plates, so act accordingly: take a look at the buffet and examine all the dishes, and ask questions if necessary. Don’t be afraid you’ll not be able to have that amazing fresh vegetable roll because the other guests are fighting to have one: just wait for few minutes and you will find them again. The catering companies know this very well, that’s why they always have extra rolls ready J
Use your senses: sight, smell and talk to the waiters, they can give you the best advice.
3- What to drink?
Drinking water, two or three full glasses, before going to the party will help you reduce your appetite so you can make the best choices once you are in front of the buffet. The choice will not be driven by psychologic hunger. At the party ask for fruit juice or fruit mocktail. If there will be wine and you really, really, really want a taste of it, follow this simple rule of thumb: when pouring the wine, mentally count to 3 before saying stop: that is the right quantity of wine. Actually wine can help you because it can reduce the impact of high fat foods. Please, remember that moderation is the key.
4- Choose a small plate
Do we really need to explain this?
Several studies demonstrate, that by choosing a smaller plate, we can trick our brains to think we are eating more.
Another piece of advice: go for the vegetables, unadorned. Despite the fact that I’m vegan, so this article might be a little tricky and definitely supporting the vegan movement, veggies are really the best choice at parties. Cooked or raw, they can fill you up leaving you lighter and ready to dance like a pro…without that nasty food coma, too!
Golden Rule:
If there is fruit at the buffet, always eat fruit as first course, possibly without any yoghurt or custard or double-cream-mousse. Eating fruit first will help you to feel full, without being bloated and the sugar of the fruit is enough for you not to feel the need to put that extra slab of sauce or ice-cream on top. When the blood sugar level is ok, you don’t feel “the need” to eat like tomorrow never comes J
This is it for today, don’t forget to let us know about your results and if you like this article, like it on FB!
You have Parasites. It’s a given. Do you eat unwashed raw food? Do you cuddle with your pet or other animals? Do you sometimes skip washing your hands after a toilet break? These are all possible ways to contract parasites. It’s not hard and most of the time we live with them in harmony – they are a part of life. But what if they get out of hand and wreak havoc on your system?
Some of the symptoms you have when parasites are raging war in your body are…
Digestive issues such as:
Constipation and/or diarrhea, gas and bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, loss of appetite, bad taste in the mouth, vomiting (may return several times a year), sugar craving , weight gain OR may have trouble gaining weight, children especially and long-term presence may contribute to the development of food allergies Physical symptoms such as :
painful menstruation, joint and muscle aches, skin conditions – mostly irritation/itching at nose, ears, eyes, anus – but also potentially rashes, hives, eczema. Also anemia, teeth grinding, headaches, runny nose, blisters on lower lip inside mouth, tumors, acne, sudden fever, dark areas under eyes, allergies and recurring yeast/candida infections As well as other symptoms such as:
nervousness, sleep disorders, hyperactivity, anxiety, chronic fatigue, fuzzy thinking;
Pfew that’s quite a long list!
What is a Parasite exactly?
“A parasite is a tiny organism that lives on or in another host organism and is fed at the expense of its host. In other words the parasites that live inside us use up our vitamins, proteins and all other nutrients. Not only do they do this, they also do their “business” inside us releasing their toxic bacteria and viruses inside us.” – Dr. Hulda Clark. While they are often fond of the colon, this is not the only place parasites can be found. Any part of your body is vulnerable to infestation: the lungs, liver, esophagus, brain, blood, muscles, joints, skin…and even your eyes.
What can we do about Parasite infestations?
First you need to weaken them by starving them of their favorite food – refined sugars found in bread, pasta, white rice, chips, cookies, sweets and sweet drinks.
Detox is a phenomenal way to kill these little critters.
While you are fasting or eating healthy, light natural wholefoods the parasites get weakened.
Especially beneficial foods against them are pumpkin seeds, raw garlic, pineapples, papaya seeds and dried figs.
While you are weakening them with food (or lack thereof) killing off the adult specimen as well as the eggs and larvae is important. This is done with special herbs that kill these creatures at different stages.
Also Garlic Colonics are very effective for the removal of these unwanted residents.
It is quite an involved process and can get quite unpleasant when the parasites start to die off as they release toxic gases that can give us all sorts of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, diarrhea, cramps even fever can occur.
It is an important part of detoxing and the benefits are huge!
If you are eating healthy, exercising well, laughing, loving and taking care of yourself but still feel like something is “off” or you are not as healthy as you feel you should be – it’s time to do a parasite cleanse.
At Santosa, guests can use their free time to relax and disconnect from the stresses of the outside world by joining our free classes, taking a swim or a relaxing ice bath after a sauna.
Santosa Spa is truly an extension of our ethics; to take you on a sensual and luxurious journey. Our treatments nurture and support the connection between body, mind and spirit.
Shirodara & Ayurvedic - Thai Herbal Compress - Hot Stone - Cupping Therapy - Infrared Dome Sauna - Ion Cleanse Foot Bath - Epsom Salt Foot SPA and Foot Scrub