Soon, ghost and goblins will be roaming our neighborhoods, but many of us follow superstitions to scare off the evil eye all year around. Here are some of the most interesting and the nutritional benefits of them:
Garlic
Garlic isn’t just good to scare off vampires. Some people wear garlic cloves around their neck to ward off the evil eye. In ancient times midwives would hang garlic cloves in birthing rooms to protect the newborns from evil spirits. I say garlic should be eaten, not worn.
Garlic is known as the “stinky rose.” It is a natural antibiotic with medicinal properties. When ingested garlic can boost your immunity and reduce cholesterol.
Salt
Spilling salt is considered bad luck. It was thought for every grain of salt that was spilled, tears would be shed. People throw the spilt salt over their left shoulder to counter act any bad luck. In some religions the devil hangs out on your left shoulder. Therefore by throwing salt, it’s as if you were throwing it in the face of the devil.
I say it’s best to throw the salt over either shoulder rather than putting it on your food. Adding salt to any of your meals can cause bloating and increase your blood pressure. Foods contain so much sodium that the evil eye doesn’t stand chance.
Chicken or turkey wishbone
Many of us save the wishbone from our Thanksgiving dinners. The belief is that two people pull apart the bone with their pinkies and the person with the longest side makes a wish.
Chicken or turkey are both great protein sources as they are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and are low in fat. Turkey is a good source of tryptothan (amino acid) folic acid, zinc and potassium. Eating poultry for the wishbone is a great way to make a wish and get the nutrients you need.
Long noodles
In China, long noodles means long life. You are not supposed to cut noodles, as you will shorten your life span. Long noodles are served during celebrations, especially on New Year’s Day to increase longevity.
I say, make those long noodles whole grain and portion controlled. A portion of noodles (short or long) is half a cup.
Black eyed peas on New Year’s Day
In some traditions, black eyed peas should be cooked with a penny or a dime and the person who is served the coin will have good luck all year around. Some say that each person should have 365 peas on their plate to ensure good luck for the whole year. If more than 365 peas are eaten, then bad luck will fall on those extra days. If less than 365 peas are eaten, then the luck would last for less days.
If you get to pick which superstition to follow, choose the more peas because they are a good source of fiber, protein and complex carbohydrates. They contain minerals and vitamins like zinc, iron and folic acid.
There are many superstitions and traditions related to food. Every culture, family and religion has it’s own beliefs. Personally I would spend more energy warding evil chocolate than the evil eye.
Here’s to Eating Well
Tracy
There, are, many, superstitions, and, traditions, related, to, food,