PHOENIX ARIZONA | VOL. 9
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY FEATURED ARTICLES
RETIREMENT • INVESTING • VACATION
TRAVEL • LIVING • HEALTH • DINING
WHAT ARE ANNUITIES?
An annuity is an investment vehicle that can provide a guaranteed income for an individual or their spouse. It is a contract with an insurance company or financial institution where you contribute money upfront and at a specific time receive payments back over the course of your lifetime. There are several advantages to investing in an annuity. First, it is tax deferred which means no taxes until you begin taking the income. Second, you can choose a fixed rate annuity where you will always receive the
same amount regardless of market conditions. Third, you will receive payment even if you receive more than your original investment. Fourth, there are annuities with death benefits for heirs.
There are many different types of annuities, all of which have different features, benefits and costs but they fall into three main categories: fixed, fixed index and variable. There are two types of payout options- deferred and immediate.
FIXED ANNUITY
A fixed annuity is based on a set interest rate and can increase in value over time. It guarantees income payments over your lifetime with the possibility of death benefits for heirs. There are two ways to purchase - either through a lump sum payment or a series of payments that increase the value of your annuity and therefore the total payout.
VARIABLE ANNUITY
A variable annuity’s value will depend on market conditions and will rise and fall with the stock market. This means the possibility of a higher interest rate when the market is strong but in a weak market, the annuity could even lose value.
INDEXED ANNUITY
An indexed annuity is based on the performance of a particular market index and the value of the annuity will be based on that particular index. Interest will be based on the index’s interest rate.
WHY BUY AN ANNUITY?
It is a good opportunity to be sure you have the resources to cover your essential monthly expenses such as mortgage or rent, insurance, utilities , travel, etc. The best thing about an annuity is that it does not run out no matter your age or the value of the investment. Start by analyzing your monthly expenses to figure out how much
income you need to cover basic bills. Don’t forget to consider and plan for inflation. When considering an annuity, the most important thing is to be sure to understand what you are investing in. They are complicated investments. Work with a trusted financial adviser to ensure your understanding of the risks and potential returns.
FENG SHUI
IN COLOR & DESIGN
Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is an ancient Chinese practice rooted in the theory of Yin and Yang. It is the ancient Chinese practice of using energy forces to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment by organizing furniture, art, plants, and other objects within any given space or room to create peace and harmony.
It has been used for centuries to determine building sites such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, which is built on a north-south axis with the main entrance facing south. It was believed to be the most propitious direction according to the feng shui masters. Additionally, the pyramid addition to the Louvre in Paris, Trump Tower in Manhattan, and the Sydney Opera House in Sydney have all been influenced by feng shui principles.
In interior design, feng shui is a tool to help design a room that makes you feel good and enhances health, prosperity, harmony and balance for a joyful life.
Chinese philosophy is all about opposites - masculine and feminine, dark and light, warm and cold. Additionally, there is a focus on the 5 elements which are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These symbolize qualities such as stability, wisdom, growth and creativity. Decorating with the five elements is meant to bring joy and balance to your life.
According to Better Homes and Gardens, you can feng shui your home with a few simple tips:
Clear your home of clutter and open up the flow of traffic. This will create an atmosphere of calm by creating a welcoming entryway. Adding feng shui plants and positioning furniture in relation to the door will give a feeling of
control and empowerment, creating balance. And don’t forget to use feng shui with your color selections.
The bedroom is the most important room for applying the principles of feng shui since we all spend so much time there. It is important to have the bed face the door but not straight-on. It is preferable to have a wall behind the bed so that you are aware if anyone is entering your space. This is referred to as command position. Use soft and muted pastel colors or earthen tones that you’d find in nature. Plants are not recommended for the bedroom as they are active and produce energy which is not conducive to the calm environment required in the bedroom. However, they are desirable throughout the rest of the home. Some of the best plants include lucky bamboo, orchids, jade, snake or rubber plants.
Although there is no scientific basis for the use of feng shui in design, it is about making your environment a healthy and happy one for your family, so why not give it a try.
NEW TRENDS FOR Weddings
After the thrill of an engagement, all attention moves to the upcoming wedding. It is a happy and exciting time for any couple and one filled with many choices and decisions. It can also be a stressful time if not properly organized. To make it a joyous event, a plan is essential and it starts with making lists of things to accomplish. Technology has made it much easier. There are on-line wedding planning tools for couples to use. Not only do they simplify wedding preparation, they save time and keep everything organized and in one place as opposed to old fashioned methods.
Post-Covid backyard weddings are out and luxury is in. Couples want their venue to be special, whether it is the country club, a spectacular garden, a historic estate, or a clear top tent for dancing under the stars. They want it to reflect who they are and their own personal love story and even their cultural heritage.
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Oftentimes, couples are going for smaller, more intimate affairs. This allows more time to spend with people they care about most. It also helps with the budget and allows for spending on special effects or treats. Decor has shifted from traditional white to brighter, bolder colors. Couples can now more easily express their personalities. Food and flowers are often designed to be environmentally friendly using locally sourced products. Champagne towers add a touch of elegance and they have made a big comeback.
Hanging florals are a new and dramatic trend along with decorative ceremony aisles. Special effects lighting is another new trend. For a really unique look, go for a custom dance floor as the dance floor is often the center of the action at the wedding party. A new special effect is called cold sparks. The best explanation is indoor fireworks which add drama and sparkle to any event. They can be used in a variety of ways. Use them to light up the bride and groom’s entrance to the party, for first dances, or for the couple’s departure.
It is all about creating a memorable experience unlike any other. If you don’t have a lot of time to plan and implement all that is required for your wedding, consider hiring a wedding planner or pick a venue that coordinates the details for you. Country Clubs and Hotels are good at that as they often have excellent party planners on staff. Although a private wedding planner will add to the expense, they make sure the entire process runs smoothly from design issues, overseeing the budget, sending invitations, tracking RSVPs, managing vendors, and coordinating the schedule of the wedding. At a minimum, be sure to have someone in charge on the day of the wedding for any last minute issues that arise.
BANANA DATE NUT BREAD
• 3 ripe bananas mashed
• 2 eggs
• 1 stick butter
• 1 cup unbleached flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup shelled walnuts chopped
• 3/4 cup Medjool dates chopped and pitted blitzed with 1/4 cup water in a blender ( or 3/4 cup of sugar without water)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
• Grease a 9x5x3 bread pan
• Cream butter and date mixture
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well
• Sift flour, baking soda, and salt and add to creamed mixture
• Fold in mashed bananas, vanilla and walnuts
• Pour mixture into the bread pan
• Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean
• Cool for 10 minutes and then put on a rack
2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
DATES TOURNAMENT
SEPT 26 - 29
OCT 3 - 6
OCT 10 - 13
OCT 17 - 20
OCT 24 - 27
NOV 7 - 10
NOV 14 - 17
NOV 21 - 24
DEC 5 - 8
DEC 12 - 15
DEC 12 - 15
Presidents Cup
* Schedule subject to change
The Royal Montreal GC • Montreal, Quebec • CAN
Sanderson Farms Championship
NBC, GOLF, PEACOCK, SXM
The Country Club of Jackson • Jackson, MS • USA GOLF, SXM
Black Desert Championship
Black Desert Resort Golf Course • Ivins, UT • USA GOLF, SXM
Shriners Children’s Open
TPC Summerlin • Las Vegas, NV • USA
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP
ACCORDIA GOLF • Chiba • JPN
World Wide Technology Championship
SXM
El Cardonal at Diamante • Los Cabos • MEX GOLF, SXM
Butterfield Bermuda Championship
Port Royal Golf Course • Southampton • BER GOLF, SXM
The RSM Classic
Sea Island Golf Club • St. Simons Island, GA • USA GOLF, SXM
Hero World Challenge
Albany GC • Albany • BAH NBC, GOLF
Grant Thornton Invitational
Tiburón Golf Club • Naples, FL • USA
PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry
Dye’s Valley Course • Ponte Vedra Beach, FL • USA
GOLF
+ Signature Event
# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour
2024 LPGA
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
OCTOBER
OCT 1 - 27 | STATE FAIR
For 139 years, the Arizona State Fair has been a gathering place for our diverse residents from the far corners of the state, to honor the past, celebrate the now and explore the future. The Fairgrounds, established in 1905, is home to Veterans Memorial Coliseum, which opened over 55 years ago and has been visited by the likes of Elvis, Pope John Paul II, President Obama, and Cher. Over the years, the fair grew in popularity and scope and transformed into a bustling hub of thrilling rides, live entertainment, exhibitions, competitions, and mouthwatering food offerings. For more info visit: azstatefair.com
Oct 11 -13 | Oktoberfest
Four Peaks & Tempe Sister Cities invite you to Oktoberfest! A weekend full of entertainment for all ages, German food & beers and plenty of Oom Pah Pah! This event is a long standing Tempe tradition celebrating 50 years and
benefitting the work of Tempe Sister Cities For more info visit: fourpeaksoktoberfest.com
NOVEMBER
NOV 16 | MUSIC FESTIVAL
Country Music’s Hottest Artists Under Arizona’s Desert Sky for One Unforgettable Night! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/bdzk4463
NOV 16 - 17 | PIZZA FESTIVAL
At the annual Phoenix Pizza Festival, local pizza makers sell all types of pizza slices, full pies and other unique pizza inspired creations. Other foods will also be available like pasta, meatballs, french fries and a variety of desserts. The event also features performances by some of Phoenix’s best local bands, vendor market, kid’s zone, and more! For more info visit: phoenix.pizza
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
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DECEMBER
DEC 9 - 10
| ART & WINE FEST
The Phoenix Center for the Arts is excited to present the Phx Art & Wine Fest. Traditionally called the Phoenix Festival of the Arts, this year will feature a greater Arizona winery presence and more food vendors. This celebration of Phoenix’s art, culture, and the exquisite flavors of Arizona Wine promises to enchant visitors with an unparalleled sensory experience. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/49z3bfsj
DEC 15 | HOT CHOCOLATE 5K
We’re back for another LIVE Hot Chocolate season! Join the movement that’s taken over the racing world, the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k is headed to Phoenix! Start and finish amongst Phoenix’s biggest chocolate aficionados. Train, race, and celebrate with us all the way to the finish line. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3u3lotM
JANUARY
JAN 24 - 26
| BALLOON CLASSIC
Balloons will lift off into the beautiful desert sky. One of Arizona’s most popular outdoor signature events and the only hot air balloon race in the state. A field full of illuminated hot air balloons will glow in time to music. Come bring your appetite, as there will be an amazing variety of festival foods! For more info visit: abcfest.com
FEBRUARY
FEB 15 - 16 | HOOP
DANCE CONTEST
The art of hoop dance honors cultural traditions shared by multiple Indigenous communities. With roots in healing ceremonies, traditions and practices, today hoop dance is shared as an artistic expression to celebrate and honor Indigenous traditions throughout the U.S. and Canada. Through stunning performances of those women and men competing to be named the next World Champion Hoop Dancer, the event combines artistry, athleticism, tradition
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
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and suspense for an unforgettable weekend of fellowship and competition. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/sbypfvvn
FEB 22 - 23 | DEVOURED CULINARY CLASSIC
The most anticipated culinary event in the region, Devour Culinary Classic brings together the culinary and beverage leaders that are establishing Arizona as a sought-after destination. Enjoy Arizona’s best food and beverage amidst the beautiful backdrop of the largest botanical garden in the Southwest. In addition to tastings, the event will offer multiple opportunities for all attendees to learn skills and tips from some of their favorite local chefs and food producers. For more info visit: devourphoenix.com
MARCH
MARCH 1 - 30 | RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Don’t miss Raucous Revelry at the Annual Arizona Renaissance Fes-
tival! This unique outdoor event combines entertainment and wares reminiscent of what may have been found in a 16th Century European village market celebrating the arrival of the King and Queen to their shire. Walk through the gates to be transported back in time. For more info visit: arizona.renfestinfo.com
MARCH 15 | ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
The Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Parade began in 1984. Its purpose is to preserve and enhance the heritage and traditions of Irish Culture as well as share that culture with the citizens of Arizona. The Parade has marching bands, Irish step dancers, bagpipers, police and fire vehicles, government dignitaries, floats and a whole lot more! For more info visit: stpatricksdayphoenix.org
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
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APRIL
APRIL 1 - 6 | FILM FESTIVAL
Our mission is to support and develop the artistic appreciation, educational opportunities and growth of independent film within Arizona. So grab your popcorn and enjoy these amazingly curated independent films! For more info visit: phoenixfilmfestival.com
APRIL 4 - 13 | COUNTY FAIR
The Fair features the largest county fair carnival in Phoenix with over 35 rides. Foodies will appreciate the wide selection of fair food. Like to shop? The shopping pavilion is filled with over 60 vendors plus there are over 25 more vendors outside. Agriculture and livestock are a part of the fair’s history and tradition and is a mainstay at the fair. For more info visit: maricopacountyfair.org
MAY
MAY 5 | CINCO DE MAYO
Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival is a historic staple of the City of Phoenix. Cinco de Mayo signifies the victory of the Mexican army over the French in 1862. Enjoy music, lucha libre, baile folklorico, great food and drink and activities for the entire family. For more info visit: cincophx.com
MAY 16 - 25 | RESTAURANT WEEK
This statewide affair offers foodies a wealth of dining opportunities and the chance to get outside their own neighborhood and try something new. From sizzling Southwestern and soothing comfort foods to five-star dining and international fare – it’s all on the table during Arizona Restaurant Week. So prepare your taste buds and dig in. For more info visit: arizonarestaurantweek.com
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
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JUNE
JUNE 14 |
BEER FESTIVAL
Real, Wild & Woody Craft Beer Festival, presented by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, features rare, unique and unconventional brews, including more than 300 different cask ales, wild brews and barrel aged beers, there is something for everyone. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/yusmfmsy
JULY
JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY
The Greater Phoenix area is famous for its massive Fourth of July celebrations with spectacular fireworks, tasty barbecues and thousands of people on the streets enjoying their festive family outing. Let’s celebrate America’s birthday with a bang this year! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/35FTcPX
AUGUST
AUG
TBA | CHILI FESTIVAL
If you like to cook chili, compete and have fun... you’re in the right place! Chili Cooks from around the southwest gather to cook and compete for a chance to qualify for the World Championship Chili Cookoff. Red chili, chili verde and salsa winners from each day will go to the WCCC. For more info visit: chilicookoff.com
AUG 28 - 30 | QUILT, CRAFT, & SEWING FESTIVAL
Come join us at our Festival in Scottsdale - At the Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival you will find a wide variety of Sewing, Quilting, Needle-Art and Craft supply exhibits from many quality companies. For more info visit: quiltcraftsew.com
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT
SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
MAY 25 - SUN 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 26 - MON 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 26 - MON 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 27 - TUE 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 27 - TUE 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
28 - WED 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 28 - WED 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 29 - THU 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 29 - THU 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 31 - SAT 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 31 - SAT 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 03 - TUE 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 03 - TUE 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 05 - THU 3:00 PM 1/2 Finals Singles Ladies’
JUN 06 - FRI 2:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 06 - FRI 5:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 07 - SAT 3:00 PM Final Women’s Single
JUN 08 - SUN 3:00 PM Final Gentlemen’s Single
DATE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
JUNE 30 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 1 - TUE 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 2 - WED 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 3 - THUR 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 4 - FRI 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 5 - SAT 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 6 - SUN 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 7 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 8 - TUE 11:00 AM
JULY 9- WED 11:00 AM
JULY 10 - THU 1:00 PM
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Ladies' Singles Semifinals & Mixed Doubles Final
JULY 11 - FRI 1:00 PM Men's Singles Semifinals
JULY 12 - SAT 2:00 PM
JULY 13 - SUN 2:00 PM
Ladies' Singles Final & Men's Doubles Final
Men's Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles Final
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
HEALTH & FOOD
Eating healthy and having a holistic approach to wellness focuses on mind, body and soul. Foods that enhance energy, heart health, improve sleep and increase muscle strength are growing in popularity. High protein, low calorie, and low carbohydrate meals are the way to go. The movement towards plant-based items for health and environmental reasons is here to stay.
Sugar intake is a concern for many.
A popular sugar alternative is dates which are very sweet and have been used for thousands of years. They are high in nutrients, antioxidants and fiber. Some say they are good for brain health as well as digestion. Eaten whole or used in baked treats, they provide all the sweetness needed.
To lose weight or simply to eat a little bit healthier, there are several different approaches you can take.
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The Whole Food Diet is probably the most recommended diet. It is about avoiding or limiting processed foods, preservatives or artificial ingredients while sticking to lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and eggs. Limiting meat is a part of this diet as well. Not only is this diet healthy for you, but it is healthy for the planet as processed foods require more resources such as water and energy, thus creating more pollution.
The PALEO Diet is based on foods eaten in the Paleolithic period of hunter gatherer societies thousands of years ago, before farming.
The KETO Diet is a low carbohydrate, high fat diet that helps burn fat for energy rather than carbs, thus triggering weight loss. According to Healthline, the foods to eat on this diet are: meat, fatty fish,eggs, butter and cream, cheese, nuts and seeds, olive or avocado oil, avocados, and low carb vegetables and condiments.
The Vegetarian Diet is made up of plant-based foods which include fruits and vegetables, grains, legumes and nuts. No meat or dairy products including eggs and other milk products are consumed. There is a trend to eat more fruits and vegetables and new products are continually coming to the market. Non-dairy milk alternatives like oat, soy and almond are popular replacements for milk. New plantbased pasta alternatives like chickpea or zucchini pasta help us eat more vegetables and additional options are continually being introduced.
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URPrecious
