VEGAN BROCCOLI MUSHROOM GNOCCHI
Milk and dairy products have gotten a bad reputation and have been blamed for everything from weight gain to bone injuries. Some sources claim that people should never drink milk or consume dairy! But how accurate can these claims really be? Read on to find out for yourself. Can milk increase mucus production? This misconception dates back hundreds of years and is a widely held belief. But, no scientific research or evidence demonstrates that drinking milk increases mucus production. Many people mistake the temporary, slight thickening of the saliva for mucus when drinking milk. It may coat the throat and give the perception of more mucus, but the body doesn’t produce more. Does milk contain growth hormones? All milk contains small amounts of the naturally occurring bovine growth hormone — bovine somatotropin (BST). It is what helps the cow regulate growth and milk production. In some cases, farmers give cows a synthetic copy called recombinant BST (rBST) to help boost milk production. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deems using rBST in dairy cattle a safe practice, and BST — in its natural or synthetic form — doesn’t impact human health since it is species-specific! Can milk lead to weight gain? This may be one of the most common misconceptions about milk due to its high-fat content, but there are no conclusive studies that prove it leads to excessive weight gain. Milk contains saturated fats, and they help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes and blood pressure, which can both increase the chances of having a heart attack or stroke. Does milk consumption cause kidney stones? Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. Still, contrary to popular belief, milk consumption doesn’t lead to the development of kidney stones. Studies conducted at Washington State University have found that milk is associated with lower kidney stone formation rates! Their findings revealed that those who consumed three or more servings of dairy per day had lower risks of kidney stone formation over an eight-year period. There are plenty of valid reasons people choose to steer clear of milk and dairy products, including intolerances, sensitivities, and allergies. But whether you decide to consume dairy or not is an individual choice for your body! DEBUNKING MILK MISCONCEPTIONS Make the Choice Yourself
This winter, a hearty and comforting meal is just what you need. Cook this up to serve to guests or to savor at home with the family on a cozy Sunday evening.
Ingredients
• ½ cup vegetable broth • 3 cups broccoli florets • 1 cup raw cashews, soaked • 2 tsp lemon juice • 1 13.5 oz can full-fat coconut milk • ¼ cup nutritional yeast
• 1 head roasted garlic, peeled and minced • 3 cups sliced portobello mushrooms • 1 lb uncooked gnocchi pasta • Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable broth. 2. Add broccoli and steam for 6–8 minutes until tender. 3. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, lemon juice, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and roasted garlic. Pulse until smooth. 4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes. 5. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and stir until smooth. 6. In a pot, boil gnocchi according to package directions. Reserve a cup of cooking water. Drain. 7. Add gnocchi and reserved cooking water to the skillet. 8. Simmer and stir gently until the sauce thickens. 9. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot. 10. Enjoy!
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