Thiamin is a water-soluble nutrient that was the first of the eight B-vitamins to be discovered, hence its name vitamin B1. Severe thiamin deficiency causes a syndrome known as “beriberi”. In the early 20th century, doctors discovered that when sailors ate a diet of white rice they were likely to suffer from muscular weakness,… Continue Reading
thiamin
Black Beans
(Phaselous vulgaris) Black beans are about the size of a pea with a black skin, a creamy white flesh and a sweet, rich flavor often compared to that of mushrooms. They have a velvety-texture that holds its shape during cooking. Black beans are also known as turtle beans (in reference to their shiny-like… Continue Reading
Quinoa
(Chenopodium quinoa) Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is an ancient grain. Although recently rediscovered in the U.S., quinoa has been cultivated in the Andean mountains of Peru, Chile and Bolivia for over 5,000 years. The grain was prized by the Incas who believed it to be sacred and referred to quinoa as the “mother seed.” … Continue Reading
Kidney Beans
(Phaseolis vulgaris) Kidney beans are legumes which are plants with seed pods that split into two halves. Some of the more common legumes are beans, lentils, peanuts, peas and soybeans. The legume family also includes alfalfa, clover and even the beautiful flowering plant wisteria. Like all legumes, kidney beans benefit from bacteria (rhizobia)… Continue Reading