...for vegans' craving the forbidden dish, Sacred Chow served up "Better than Biscuits & Gravy." Two biscuit halves layered w/steamed greens & tofu scramble topped with a luscious white gravy for $11.50. As much as I love Sacred Chow, I have a hard time imagining this dish is better than real biscuits and gravy, but I can vouch for the deliciousness of their Banana Bread French Toast and their Smokey Tempeh and Sweet Potato Hash, so maybe they are on to something.
1/28/09
SUPER BOWL PARTY FUN.
SCORE A TOUCHDOWN w/ SACRED CHOW!!
Let US, yeah US, cater
your SUPER BOWL PARTY FUN.
Mama’s soy meat bowl hero. Oh yeah!!!
Let US, yeah US, cater
your SUPER BOWL PARTY FUN.
Mama’s soy meat bowl hero. Oh yeah!!!
Organic beer here!
Great dipsters & sweet treats too!
Great dipsters & sweet treats too!
VALENTINE'S DAY
make sure 2 reserve early 4 sacred chow's VALENTINE'S DAY chocolate & champagne brunch & dinner.
& don’t forget 2 pre-order our delicious valentine's day desserts 4 your sweetheart, or yo mama!
& don’t forget 2 pre-order our delicious valentine's day desserts 4 your sweetheart, or yo mama!
1/23/09
the little angel
the little angel comes to sacred chow all the time,
it loves the food and it's always hungry.
and when it comes to sacred chow, it feels good.
after the angel eats at sacred chow, it goes to heaven
and gives sacred chow a big surprise.
by huxley parker preefer-moore
son
little man i profess my love,
u r my heart & soul, a gentle
river i listen 2 under glittery stars
from above.
it's quiet here, but 4 crickets enveloping
the night air.
relax my sweet face, we r forever graced
w divine molecular space;
& peace right here, in the night air,
between us, from underneath & above,
love.
1/22/09
"isratine" won't work
N.Y. Times Op-Ed Contributor
The One-State Solution
By MUAMMAR QADDAFI
Published: January 21, 2009
Tripoli, Libya
The One-State Solution
By MUAMMAR QADDAFI
Published: January 21, 2009
Tripoli, Libya
sensitive, comforting, accepting.
wow, way to go muammar!
but "isratine" won't work. there needs to be a two-state solution, perhaps a three-state solution, 3 democracies with palestinian nationals living & working w/ constitutional protections in israel and israeli nationals living & working w/ constitutional protections in palestine, gaza & the west bank.
b.t.w. muammar, how 'bout creating a democracy w/ constitutional protections in libya 2?
THE shocking level of the last wave of Israeli-Palestinian violence, which ended with this weekend’s cease-fire, reminds us why a final resolution to the so-called Middle East crisis is so important. It is vital not just to break this cycle of destruction and injustice, but also to deny the religious extremists in the region who feed on the conflict an excuse to advance their own causes.
But everywhere one looks, among the speeches and the desperate diplomacy, there is no real way forward. A just and lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians is possible, but it lies in the history of the people of this conflicted land, and not in the tired rhetoric of partition and two-state solutions.
Although it’s hard to realize after the horrors we’ve just witnessed, the state of war between the Jews and Palestinians has not always existed. In fact, many of the divisions between Jews and Palestinians are recent ones. The very name “Palestine” was commonly used to describe the whole area, even by the Jews who lived there, until 1948, when the name “Israel” came into use.
Jews and Muslims are cousins descended from Abraham. Throughout the centuries both faced cruel persecution and often found refuge with one another. Arabs sheltered Jews and protected them after maltreatment at the hands of the Romans and their expulsion from Spain in the Middle Ages.
The history of Israel/Palestine is not remarkable by regional standards — a country inhabited by different peoples, with rule passing among many tribes, nations and ethnic groups; a country that has withstood many wars and waves of peoples from all directions. This is why it gets so complicated when members of either party claims the right to assert that it is their land.
The basis for the modern State of Israel is the persecution of the Jewish people, which is undeniable. The Jews have been held captive, massacred, disadvantaged in every possible fashion by the Egyptians, the Romans, the English, the Russians, the Babylonians, the Canaanites and, most recently, the Germans under Hitler. The Jewish people want and deserve their homeland.
But the Palestinians too have a history of persecution, and they view the coastal towns of Haifa, Acre, Jaffa and others as the land of their forefathers, passed from generation to generation, until only a short time ago.
Thus the Palestinians believe that what is now called Israel forms part of their nation, even were they to secure the West Bank and Gaza. And the Jews believe that the West Bank is Samaria and Judea, part of their homeland, even if a Palestinian state were established there. Now, as Gaza still smolders, calls for a two-state solution or partition persist. But neither will work.
A two-state solution will create an unacceptable security threat to Israel. An armed Arab state, presumably in the West Bank, would give Israel less than 10 miles of strategic depth at its narrowest point. Further, a Palestinian state in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip would do little to resolve the problem of refugees. Any situation that keeps the majority of Palestinians in refugee camps and does not offer a solution within the historical borders of Israel/Palestine is not a solution at all.
For the same reasons, the older idea of partition of the West Bank into Jewish and Arab areas, with buffer zones between them, won’t work. The Palestinian-held areas could not accommodate all of the refugees, and buffer zones symbolize exclusion and breed tension. Israelis and Palestinians have also become increasingly intertwined, economically and politically.
In absolute terms, the two movements must remain in perpetual war or a compromise must be reached. The compromise is one state for all, an “Isratine” that would allow the people in each party to feel that they live in all of the disputed land and they are not deprived of any one part of it.
A key prerequisite for peace is the right of return for Palestinian refugees to the homes their families left behind in 1948. It is an injustice that Jews who were not originally inhabitants of Palestine, nor were their ancestors, can move in from abroad while Palestinians who were displaced only a relatively short time ago should not be so permitted.
It is a fact that Palestinians inhabited the land and owned farms and homes there until recently, fleeing in fear of violence at the hands of Jews after 1948 — violence that did not occur, but rumors of which led to a mass exodus. It is important to note that the Jews did not forcibly expel Palestinians. They were never “un-welcomed.” Yet only the full territories of Isratine can accommodate all the refugees and bring about the justice that is key to peace.
Assimilation is already a fact of life in Israel. There are more than one million Muslim Arabs in Israel; they possess Israeli nationality and take part in political life with the Jews, forming political parties. On the other side, there are Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Israeli factories depend on Palestinian labor, and goods and services are exchanged. This successful assimilation can be a model for Isratine.
If the present interdependence and the historical fact of Jewish-Palestinian coexistence guide their leaders, and if they can see beyond the horizon of the recent violence and thirst for revenge toward a long-term solution, then these two peoples will come to realize, I hope sooner rather than later, that living under one roof is the only option for a lasting peace.
Muammar Qaddafi is the leader of Libya
THE shocking level of the last wave of Israeli-Palestinian violence, which ended with this weekend’s cease-fire, reminds us why a final resolution to the so-called Middle East crisis is so important. It is vital not just to break this cycle of destruction and injustice, but also to deny the religious extremists in the region who feed on the conflict an excuse to advance their own causes.
But everywhere one looks, among the speeches and the desperate diplomacy, there is no real way forward. A just and lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians is possible, but it lies in the history of the people of this conflicted land, and not in the tired rhetoric of partition and two-state solutions.
Although it’s hard to realize after the horrors we’ve just witnessed, the state of war between the Jews and Palestinians has not always existed. In fact, many of the divisions between Jews and Palestinians are recent ones. The very name “Palestine” was commonly used to describe the whole area, even by the Jews who lived there, until 1948, when the name “Israel” came into use.
Jews and Muslims are cousins descended from Abraham. Throughout the centuries both faced cruel persecution and often found refuge with one another. Arabs sheltered Jews and protected them after maltreatment at the hands of the Romans and their expulsion from Spain in the Middle Ages.
The history of Israel/Palestine is not remarkable by regional standards — a country inhabited by different peoples, with rule passing among many tribes, nations and ethnic groups; a country that has withstood many wars and waves of peoples from all directions. This is why it gets so complicated when members of either party claims the right to assert that it is their land.
The basis for the modern State of Israel is the persecution of the Jewish people, which is undeniable. The Jews have been held captive, massacred, disadvantaged in every possible fashion by the Egyptians, the Romans, the English, the Russians, the Babylonians, the Canaanites and, most recently, the Germans under Hitler. The Jewish people want and deserve their homeland.
But the Palestinians too have a history of persecution, and they view the coastal towns of Haifa, Acre, Jaffa and others as the land of their forefathers, passed from generation to generation, until only a short time ago.
Thus the Palestinians believe that what is now called Israel forms part of their nation, even were they to secure the West Bank and Gaza. And the Jews believe that the West Bank is Samaria and Judea, part of their homeland, even if a Palestinian state were established there. Now, as Gaza still smolders, calls for a two-state solution or partition persist. But neither will work.
A two-state solution will create an unacceptable security threat to Israel. An armed Arab state, presumably in the West Bank, would give Israel less than 10 miles of strategic depth at its narrowest point. Further, a Palestinian state in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip would do little to resolve the problem of refugees. Any situation that keeps the majority of Palestinians in refugee camps and does not offer a solution within the historical borders of Israel/Palestine is not a solution at all.
For the same reasons, the older idea of partition of the West Bank into Jewish and Arab areas, with buffer zones between them, won’t work. The Palestinian-held areas could not accommodate all of the refugees, and buffer zones symbolize exclusion and breed tension. Israelis and Palestinians have also become increasingly intertwined, economically and politically.
In absolute terms, the two movements must remain in perpetual war or a compromise must be reached. The compromise is one state for all, an “Isratine” that would allow the people in each party to feel that they live in all of the disputed land and they are not deprived of any one part of it.
A key prerequisite for peace is the right of return for Palestinian refugees to the homes their families left behind in 1948. It is an injustice that Jews who were not originally inhabitants of Palestine, nor were their ancestors, can move in from abroad while Palestinians who were displaced only a relatively short time ago should not be so permitted.
It is a fact that Palestinians inhabited the land and owned farms and homes there until recently, fleeing in fear of violence at the hands of Jews after 1948 — violence that did not occur, but rumors of which led to a mass exodus. It is important to note that the Jews did not forcibly expel Palestinians. They were never “un-welcomed.” Yet only the full territories of Isratine can accommodate all the refugees and bring about the justice that is key to peace.
Assimilation is already a fact of life in Israel. There are more than one million Muslim Arabs in Israel; they possess Israeli nationality and take part in political life with the Jews, forming political parties. On the other side, there are Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Israeli factories depend on Palestinian labor, and goods and services are exchanged. This successful assimilation can be a model for Isratine.
If the present interdependence and the historical fact of Jewish-Palestinian coexistence guide their leaders, and if they can see beyond the horizon of the recent violence and thirst for revenge toward a long-term solution, then these two peoples will come to realize, I hope sooner rather than later, that living under one roof is the only option for a lasting peace.
Muammar Qaddafi is the leader of Libya
a bubbling mosaic fountain
ethical eating: vegan restaurants
lifestyle: green
Julie Besonen
lifestyle: green
Julie Besonen
http://nycgo.com/?event=view.article&id=136610
It's that time of year when resolutions are made and gym memberships climb. Atoning for holiday excess can also mean going on a detox diet, consuming nothing but plant-based food. Eating vegan is a temporary measure for some, but for many it's a die-hard lifestyle choice. This niche of vegetarianism strictly prohibits all animal and dairy products, including leather products and animal-tested makeup. In fact, New York is one of the easiest places in the world to be vegan, if you know where to go. Here are our six favorites:
It's that time of year when resolutions are made and gym memberships climb. Atoning for holiday excess can also mean going on a detox diet, consuming nothing but plant-based food. Eating vegan is a temporary measure for some, but for many it's a die-hard lifestyle choice. This niche of vegetarianism strictly prohibits all animal and dairy products, including leather products and animal-tested makeup. In fact, New York is one of the easiest places in the world to be vegan, if you know where to go. Here are our six favorites:
Gobo:
One of the most stylish vegan restaurants in the City, Gobo is dark, spirited and innovative. During the day, West Villagers stop in for light lunches and fruit smoothies from the organic juice bar. At night it's more about sampling beer and organic wine. The open kitchen whips up colorful plates like slow-cooked Malaysian curry and deeply flavored vegetable lasagna. There is a Zen-like approach to the food, but portions are ample, not monastic. Dishes are well seasoned and service is a well-oiled machine. For a vegan place, it doesn't come off as crunchy—except for the super-crunchy yam and yucca fries. The lively buzz and creativity of the spot wins over omnivores and softens feelings toward the somewhat pricey check.
Sacred Chow:
Living up to its name, Sacred Chow has a spiritual bent, with a bubbling mosaic fountain that imparts a soothing background of tinkling water as you eat. There's also a mood of playfulness, with dishes like Mama's soy meatballs with spicy Sicilian sauce or a "hot diggity" not dog with tangy sauerkraut. And who wouldn't want a "gym body"? (In this case, a fruit smoothie with bananas, toasted almonds, cinnamon, flax oil and soy milk.) A bohemian NYU crowd inhabits the red-hued, inviting space. For those with low-glycemic, gluten-free and wheat-free diets there are plenty of options. And with the (wheat-free, gluten-free) velvet triple chocolate brownie, you won't sense any sacrifice.
Candle Cafe:
If you're taking a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art anytime soon, it's nice to know there's a 100% vegan restaurant—two of them, actually—nearby. Candle Cafe's original location is near 75th Street, and a second, bi-level branch—the more ambitious of the two—is on 79th Street. The incredibly loyal clientele keeps both places hopping at all hours. At the more casual, homespun 75th Street location, you can enjoy a tonic from the "farmacy," such as the immune-boosting, flu- and cold-fighting smoothie with ginger, orange, carrot, grapefruit and lemon. The menu is a kaleidoscope of ethnic favorites, from Southwestern chili to a Middle Eastern meze plate to an Asian-style ginger-miso stir-fry. The staff is friendly, making accommodations for special diets.
Counter:
The East Village is rife with vegan options, but Counter is one of the most appealing, a bistro with real flair and a fully developed concept. The half-moon wine-and-martini bar features an interesting list from biodynamic, sustainable vineyards. The creative cocktail menu focuses on organic spirits, with sexy names like the Cosmic Striptease and Tie Me to the Bedpost. Proprietor Deborah Gavito has even gone so far as planting a garden on the rooftop of her nearby tenement building, which supplies the kitchen with ultra-fresh ingredients. The menu is seasonal and includes such treats as corn beignets with rémoulade sauce, Provençal vegetable stew and wild mushroom ravioli with fava beans. The space is dimly lit and romantic, a place where carnivores won't miss meat for a few hours.
Happy Buddha:
Flushing is famous for having some of the best dim sum in the City. Happily for vegans, there's Happy Buddha, a modern, spiffy, spacious restaurant with a full array of mock meat. Prices are affordable and dishes are shareable. Dim sum (served from 11am to 3pm) includes mock shrimp dumplings, mock pork buns and sweet tapioca dumplings. At night expect a wealth of steaming soups, tofu specialties, clay-pot vegetable casseroles and flavorful noodle and rice dishes. To drink are teas, smoothies and organic juices, and to finish, vegan chocolate cake, tofu cheesecake and mango pudding. During the week it's a serene place to dine, but on weekends it's a jam-packed flurry of activity.
Vegetarian Palate:
Just because vegans are health-conscious doesn't mean they don't like junk food from time to time, like the irresistible mock chicken nuggets, meant to be dunked in a hickory-smoked mustard sauce, found here. The menu at this no-frills Park Slope joint is anything but minimalist, with a ridiculously long catalog of Asian-centric items. It's 99.9% vegan—only the lo mein breaks the no-dairy rule. Wonton soup is pure comfort food, and if you stop there, you'll have room for a scrumptious banana split. For main courses there's mock beef, turkey, duck and seafood, tons of tofu and vegetable dishes, sandwiches and even paella. Service is patient and attentive, the prices gentle.
1/21/09
black olive seitan
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
When Steven and I visited New York City, we dined at a restaurant called Sacred Chow. This place was so good! I certainly think anyone visiting or living in the nyc area should go! When we ate there, we had this awesome sandwich that had black olive seitan on it...something I had never had before! It was so delicious!
1/16/09
equality 2 all
Martin Luther King Day + Obama's Inauguration!
Wow!
Join Sacred Chow in celebration and prayer 4 equality 2 all.
My standards are impossibly high.
January 15, 2009
I have a giant collection of vegan cookbooks, which is kind of queer considering the fact that I hardly cook. There are multiple reasons for this:
1. I am lazy
2. I am impatient and
3. My standards are impossibly high.
I want everything I eat to taste like it came from either Candle 79 or Sacred Chow. That's a problem because of #1 and #2.
1. I am lazy
2. I am impatient and
3. My standards are impossibly high.
I want everything I eat to taste like it came from either Candle 79 or Sacred Chow. That's a problem because of #1 and #2.
my FAVORITE restaurant
Dececmber 17, 2008
Saturday's city trip was great! Just what I needed. Kate and I walked around Greenwich (my FAVORITE section) a lot, and we went to Sacred Chow (my FAVORITE restaurant) since she has never been there and is not familiar with vegan/vegetarian foods. I got their Tofu Scramble with Home Fries and Steamed Collard Greens - I missed their food - I went there at least 2 times a month in college. I also got 2 huge cups of coffee w/ soy milk.
The brussel sprouts were fantastic!
January 14, 2009
For dinner, I was joined by my boyfriend who also decided to come visit me for the day! After tons of research online, I chose for us to head down to Sacred Chow. This place is cute! The area is quiet and the restaurant has a very laid back and quaint vibe.
I wasn’t too hungry, so I choose to order a plate of cornmeal crusted brussel sprouts and a salad. The salad was just a mix of greens, snow peas, carrot, and beets. The brussel sprouts were fantastic! They had a strong, deep flavor. The outside of the sprouts were perfectly crispy, while the inside was just soft enough. Just how I like ‘em!
My boyfriend went with a tempeh rueben. It definitely looked like a good choice!
I wasn’t too hungry, so I choose to order a plate of cornmeal crusted brussel sprouts and a salad. The salad was just a mix of greens, snow peas, carrot, and beets. The brussel sprouts were fantastic! They had a strong, deep flavor. The outside of the sprouts were perfectly crispy, while the inside was just soft enough. Just how I like ‘em!
My boyfriend went with a tempeh rueben. It definitely looked like a good choice!
1/15/09
brilliant, superyummy!
Found a new restaurant in Greenwich Village this afternoon - a vegan place called Sacred Chow (on Sullivan Street). It rocked. I ate Soba Noodles w/ Spicy Peanut Sauce over Fresh Greens, and a Philly Pepper "steak" (roasted seitan strips) with Peppers, Onions, and "Cheez", homefries on the side... - brilliant, superyummy!
delicious food, and i’m not even vegan!
December 30th, 2008
So I told him to meet up with me at Sacred Chow (thanks Keith!), which is this small vegan restaurant that makes delicious food, and i’m not even vegan!
the wait was a little long, there was one guy serving. but it was well worth it!
I ordered a Banana Nut French Toast, it’s as good as it looks.. Crispy edges, soft warm center.. topped off with cinnamon and other shit haha.. DELICIOUS!
Rachel got a Omega-3 waffle, which was also delicious
the wait was a little long, there was one guy serving. but it was well worth it!
I ordered a Banana Nut French Toast, it’s as good as it looks.. Crispy edges, soft warm center.. topped off with cinnamon and other shit haha.. DELICIOUS!
Rachel got a Omega-3 waffle, which was also delicious
1/12/09
delicious vegan food
The Green Business Marketing Group
The December meeting of the Green Business Marketing Group took place on Wednesday, December 3 at G Squared Showroom in Manhattan. We had 10 people representing a wide range of companies that are doing good things to help the planet. Companies represented included Mint Cars, Ambit Energy, Skywater Systems, Precise Alloys, Nomad Architecture, The Business Development Group and Greenworker Cooperatives.
Jessica Aflak and Ralph Marucci told us that Skywater Systems is the best water filtration and dispensing system available and it costs much less than bottled water. Mark Sabarese spoke about Orange Crush Paste Flux, the only non-toxic, eco-friendly paste flux available for use on copper pipes. There was some very animated discussion about the general need to educate people and pursuade them to change their habits and try something new. Several ideas for good marketing strategies came up in the conversation. For example, Google Alerts are very helpful in keeping you informed about when your company is mentioned on the web. Facebook, You Tube, and Linked-In are useful networking and marketing tools that don't cost anything. A company blog enables you to give your company free exposure on a regular basis. During the meeting, we enjoyed delicious vegan food from Sacred Chow Vegan Bistro.
Real good stuff.
January 05 2009
Hit up this vegan spot called Sacred Chow for Breakfast/Brunch. Julian got this toasted french banana bread thing, and I got this tofu omelette/marinara frittata.
Real good stuff.
Julian and Rachel
1/9/09
spend until it's fixed and fair. "ooooh, what a couple trillion more could doooo!"
The Obama Gap
By PAUL KRUGMAN
Published: January 8, 2009
So declared President-elect Barack Obama on Thursday, explaining why the nation needs an extremely aggressive government response to the economic downturn. He’s right. This is the most dangerous economic crisis since the Great Depression, and it could all too easily turn into a prolonged slump.
But Mr. Obama’s prescription doesn’t live up to his diagnosis. The economic plan he’s offering isn’t as strong as his language about the economic threat. In fact, it falls well short of what’s needed.
Bear in mind just how big the U.S. economy is. Given sufficient demand for its output, America would produce more than $30 trillion worth of goods and services over the next two years. But with both consumer spending and business investment plunging, a huge gap is opening up between what the American economy can produce and what it’s able to sell.
And the Obama plan is nowhere near big enough to fill this “output gap.”
Earlier this week, the Congressional Budget Office came out with its latest analysis of the budget and economic outlook. The budget office says that in the absence of a stimulus plan, the unemployment rate would rise above 9 percent by early 2010, and stay high for years to come.
Grim as this projection is, by the way, it’s actually optimistic compared with some independent forecasts. Mr. Obama himself has been saying that without a stimulus plan, the unemployment rate could go into double digits.
Even the C.B.O. says, however, that “economic output over the next two years will average 6.8 percent below its potential.” This translates into $2.1 trillion of lost production. “Our economy could fall $1 trillion short of its full capacity,” declared Mr. Obama on Thursday. Well, he was actually understating things.
To close a gap of more than $2 trillion — possibly a lot more, if the budget office projections turn out to be too optimistic — Mr. Obama offers a $775 billion plan. And that’s not enough.
Now, fiscal stimulus can sometimes have a “multiplier” effect: In addition to the direct effects of, say, investment in infrastructure on demand, there can be a further indirect effect as higher incomes lead to higher consumer spending. Standard estimates suggest that a dollar of public spending raises G.D.P. by around $1.50.
But only about 60 percent of the Obama plan consists of public spending. The rest consists of tax cuts — and many economists are skeptical about how much these tax cuts, especially the tax breaks for business, will actually do to boost spending. (A number of Senate Democrats apparently share these doubts.) Howard Gleckman of the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center summed it up in the title of a recent blog posting: “lots of buck, not much bang.”
The bottom line is that the Obama plan is unlikely to close more than half of the looming output gap, and could easily end up doing less than a third of the job.
Why isn’t Mr. Obama trying to do more?
Is the plan being limited by fear of debt? There are dangers associated with large-scale government borrowing — and this week’s C.B.O. report projected a $1.2 trillion deficit for this year. But it would be even more dangerous to fall short in rescuing the economy. The president-elect spoke eloquently and accurately on Thursday about the consequences of failing to act — there’s a real risk that we’ll slide into a prolonged, Japanese-style deflationary trap — but the consequences of failing to act adequately aren’t much better.
Is the plan being limited by a lack of spending opportunities? There are only a limited number of “shovel-ready” public investment projects — that is, projects that can be started quickly enough to help the economy in the near term. But there are other forms of public spending, especially on health care, that could do good while aiding the economy in its hour of need.
Or is the plan being limited by political caution? Press reports last month indicated that Obama aides were anxious to keep the final price tag on the plan below the politically sensitive trillion-dollar mark. There also have been suggestions that the plan’s inclusion of large business tax cuts, which add to its cost but will do little for the economy, is an attempt to win Republican votes in Congress.
Whatever the explanation, the Obama plan just doesn’t look adequate to the economy’s need. To be sure, a third of a loaf is better than none. But right now we seem to be facing two major economic gaps: the gap between the economy’s potential and its likely performance, and the gap between Mr. Obama’s stern economic rhetoric and his somewhat disappointing economic plan.
By PAUL KRUGMAN
Published: January 8, 2009
So declared President-elect Barack Obama on Thursday, explaining why the nation needs an extremely aggressive government response to the economic downturn. He’s right. This is the most dangerous economic crisis since the Great Depression, and it could all too easily turn into a prolonged slump.
But Mr. Obama’s prescription doesn’t live up to his diagnosis. The economic plan he’s offering isn’t as strong as his language about the economic threat. In fact, it falls well short of what’s needed.
Bear in mind just how big the U.S. economy is. Given sufficient demand for its output, America would produce more than $30 trillion worth of goods and services over the next two years. But with both consumer spending and business investment plunging, a huge gap is opening up between what the American economy can produce and what it’s able to sell.
And the Obama plan is nowhere near big enough to fill this “output gap.”
Earlier this week, the Congressional Budget Office came out with its latest analysis of the budget and economic outlook. The budget office says that in the absence of a stimulus plan, the unemployment rate would rise above 9 percent by early 2010, and stay high for years to come.
Grim as this projection is, by the way, it’s actually optimistic compared with some independent forecasts. Mr. Obama himself has been saying that without a stimulus plan, the unemployment rate could go into double digits.
Even the C.B.O. says, however, that “economic output over the next two years will average 6.8 percent below its potential.” This translates into $2.1 trillion of lost production. “Our economy could fall $1 trillion short of its full capacity,” declared Mr. Obama on Thursday. Well, he was actually understating things.
To close a gap of more than $2 trillion — possibly a lot more, if the budget office projections turn out to be too optimistic — Mr. Obama offers a $775 billion plan. And that’s not enough.
Now, fiscal stimulus can sometimes have a “multiplier” effect: In addition to the direct effects of, say, investment in infrastructure on demand, there can be a further indirect effect as higher incomes lead to higher consumer spending. Standard estimates suggest that a dollar of public spending raises G.D.P. by around $1.50.
But only about 60 percent of the Obama plan consists of public spending. The rest consists of tax cuts — and many economists are skeptical about how much these tax cuts, especially the tax breaks for business, will actually do to boost spending. (A number of Senate Democrats apparently share these doubts.) Howard Gleckman of the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center summed it up in the title of a recent blog posting: “lots of buck, not much bang.”
The bottom line is that the Obama plan is unlikely to close more than half of the looming output gap, and could easily end up doing less than a third of the job.
Why isn’t Mr. Obama trying to do more?
Is the plan being limited by fear of debt? There are dangers associated with large-scale government borrowing — and this week’s C.B.O. report projected a $1.2 trillion deficit for this year. But it would be even more dangerous to fall short in rescuing the economy. The president-elect spoke eloquently and accurately on Thursday about the consequences of failing to act — there’s a real risk that we’ll slide into a prolonged, Japanese-style deflationary trap — but the consequences of failing to act adequately aren’t much better.
Is the plan being limited by a lack of spending opportunities? There are only a limited number of “shovel-ready” public investment projects — that is, projects that can be started quickly enough to help the economy in the near term. But there are other forms of public spending, especially on health care, that could do good while aiding the economy in its hour of need.
Or is the plan being limited by political caution? Press reports last month indicated that Obama aides were anxious to keep the final price tag on the plan below the politically sensitive trillion-dollar mark. There also have been suggestions that the plan’s inclusion of large business tax cuts, which add to its cost but will do little for the economy, is an attempt to win Republican votes in Congress.
Whatever the explanation, the Obama plan just doesn’t look adequate to the economy’s need. To be sure, a third of a loaf is better than none. But right now we seem to be facing two major economic gaps: the gap between the economy’s potential and its likely performance, and the gap between Mr. Obama’s stern economic rhetoric and his somewhat disappointing economic plan.
Can soy impact male fertility?
Can soy impact male fertility?
Talk about soy and lowered sperm concentration may have caught your attention and made you rethink soy in your diet. They certainly alarmed me as the father of a 6-year-old boy who eats soy foods — such as tofu, tempeh, and veggie dogs, burgers — several times a week.
The study, published in Human Reproduction, found that obese men visiting an infertility clinic who reported eating more soy foods (about 1/2 serving per day) had lower sperm concentrations (not counts) or increased ejaculate volume. Could soy’s controversial natural plant estrogens, phytoestrogens, cause hormonal imbalance and infertility? Should I eliminate soy from my boy’s diet and mine?
The most important point is the study did NOT show that soy lowered sperm count, rather, it appeared to increase the volume of semen, which appeared to slightly decrease the relative concentration of sperm. A minimal issue for most guys. I don’t think anyone should be concerned about these findings. The research on soy in men has not found a negative impact on male hormones but rather has suggested a preventive effect in prostate cancer. Which is a good thing! Enjoy the soy!
The study, published in Human Reproduction, found that obese men visiting an infertility clinic who reported eating more soy foods (about 1/2 serving per day) had lower sperm concentrations (not counts) or increased ejaculate volume. Could soy’s controversial natural plant estrogens, phytoestrogens, cause hormonal imbalance and infertility? Should I eliminate soy from my boy’s diet and mine?
The most important point is the study did NOT show that soy lowered sperm count, rather, it appeared to increase the volume of semen, which appeared to slightly decrease the relative concentration of sperm. A minimal issue for most guys. I don’t think anyone should be concerned about these findings. The research on soy in men has not found a negative impact on male hormones but rather has suggested a preventive effect in prostate cancer. Which is a good thing! Enjoy the soy!
Does soy have an emasculating effect on men?
Do soy milk or other soy products really have an effect on men and a child's growth? Do soy milk (or perhaps soy in general) limit zinc absorption and thus negatively affect a child's growth? Does soy have an emasculating effect on men? Does it affect a boys' body or genital growth during puberty? What are the true effects of soy milk and other soy products?
Best Answers
Best Answers
1. Soy does not have a feminizing effect on men. Consuming soy foods does not make you ''feminine'' at all. Diet does affect your health- no doubt about that - but ''feminizing effects''? (Nope. But here's to us who are effeminate and male. Soy what!)
2. Soy DOES contain phytic acid- which binds itself to minerals such as zinc, calcium, and iron in foods. HOWEVER, that being said, soy does NOT lower absorption of such minerals to such a degree that would cause a deficiency in a balanced diet. (We're talking a slight reduction in absorption here- not something that will spark deficiencies in a healthy person.)
3. Soy, like any other food, is absolutely fine in moderation. Basically you would have to consume bucket loads of soy to have any negative impact on your mineral status. (Relax and enjoy the soy.)
How does soy affect female fertility?
How does soy affect female fertility?
Soy is an excellent source of protein and the female reproductive hormone estrogen. Soy foods contain phytoestrogens, literally meaning plant-derived estrogen. The type of phytoestrogen in soy is known as isoflavones. These isoflavones come in different forms and have different effects. Some may function similarly to estrogens in the body, producing a very weak effect compared to the real hormone. And others act as antiestrogens, to reduce the activity of estrogen. Evidence is growing that these phytoestrogens may help with menopausal symptoms, as well as inhibits cancer cell growth.
Soy and its Effect on Fertility.
Soy is an excellent source of protein and the female reproductive hormone estrogen. Soy foods contain phytoestrogens, literally meaning plant-derived estrogen. The type of phytoestrogen in soy is known as isoflavones. These isoflavones come in different forms and have different effects. Some may function similarly to estrogens in the body, producing a very weak effect compared to the real hormone. And others act as antiestrogens, to reduce the activity of estrogen. Evidence is growing that these phytoestrogens may help with menopausal symptoms, as well as inhibits cancer cell growth.
Soy and its Effect on Fertility.
There are not many studies done in this field, however some reports suggest that in countries where soy products are consumed in large amounts, the birth rate is no lower than in countries where soy is not routinely consumed.
A few studies suggest that high levels of soy protein may decrease fertility. According to a report in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition a small number of studies have shown that high levels of soy can increase menstrual cycle length, decrease FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and decrease LH (leutinizing hormone). But note that the high levels of soy generating this effect are equivalent to drinking three 12-ounce glasses of soy milk (60 g soy protein equivalent to 45 mg of isoflavones) for a month. However, normally most people do not consume this much soy.
The American Family Physician magazine stated that up to one-quarter of women with fertility problems may be helped by dietary changes. The researchers state that, since the phytoestrogens in soy products increase the length of the follicular phase and lead to fewer menstrual cycles over a woman’s lifetime, it is possible that soy may decrease fertility in some women. But they also add here that women with multiple risk factors for infertility may be more sensitive to soy than others.
Some studies on various animal species have also indicated that eating high levels of phytoestrogens from soy can have adverse effects on fertility. But there is no current data to suggest that consumption of phytoestrogens at the levels normally encountered in the diet of animals in these tests or humans in general are likely to be harmful.
A more recent review reported in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that reproductive and developmental toxicity studies did not find significant variations in fertility from soy phytoestrogens consumption in healthy couples, indicating that normal intake of soy is basically harmless to your fertility and hence your chances of becoming pregnant or maintaining a pregnancy.
If for any reason you are experiencing fertility problems, it certainly is a good idea to limit soy in your diet to rule out any possibilities of its effect on your fertility. Since it’s the protein portion of soy that contains the phytoestrogens, you should try to avoid tofu, soy milk, tempeh, TVP and soy nuts. Soy sauce does not contain phytoestrogens, and so you can continue using this to flavor foods. As with any food, it is wise not to overconsume. Eating soy in moderation allows you to avoid any potential harm due to overconsumption, as well as leaves more scope for a variety in your diet which helps you are to get all the important nutrients that your body needs. So enjoy the soy!
A few studies suggest that high levels of soy protein may decrease fertility. According to a report in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition a small number of studies have shown that high levels of soy can increase menstrual cycle length, decrease FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and decrease LH (leutinizing hormone). But note that the high levels of soy generating this effect are equivalent to drinking three 12-ounce glasses of soy milk (60 g soy protein equivalent to 45 mg of isoflavones) for a month. However, normally most people do not consume this much soy.
The American Family Physician magazine stated that up to one-quarter of women with fertility problems may be helped by dietary changes. The researchers state that, since the phytoestrogens in soy products increase the length of the follicular phase and lead to fewer menstrual cycles over a woman’s lifetime, it is possible that soy may decrease fertility in some women. But they also add here that women with multiple risk factors for infertility may be more sensitive to soy than others.
Some studies on various animal species have also indicated that eating high levels of phytoestrogens from soy can have adverse effects on fertility. But there is no current data to suggest that consumption of phytoestrogens at the levels normally encountered in the diet of animals in these tests or humans in general are likely to be harmful.
A more recent review reported in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that reproductive and developmental toxicity studies did not find significant variations in fertility from soy phytoestrogens consumption in healthy couples, indicating that normal intake of soy is basically harmless to your fertility and hence your chances of becoming pregnant or maintaining a pregnancy.
If for any reason you are experiencing fertility problems, it certainly is a good idea to limit soy in your diet to rule out any possibilities of its effect on your fertility. Since it’s the protein portion of soy that contains the phytoestrogens, you should try to avoid tofu, soy milk, tempeh, TVP and soy nuts. Soy sauce does not contain phytoestrogens, and so you can continue using this to flavor foods. As with any food, it is wise not to overconsume. Eating soy in moderation allows you to avoid any potential harm due to overconsumption, as well as leaves more scope for a variety in your diet which helps you are to get all the important nutrients that your body needs. So enjoy the soy!
Soy Intake and Breast Cancer
Soy Intake and Breast Cancer
GOOD QUESTION: I'm confused about soy. Is it that those of us who had breast cancer should not use soy powder or eat tofu, etc., or is it that some people were taking too much soy powder and therefore the rest of us were cautioned against it?
GOOD ANSWER: The soy question is definitely confusing and controversial. Here is the concern about soy: The estrogen-like substances (isoflavones) in soy may stimulate the estrogen receptors of breast cancer cells and make them grow. It's this potential danger that makes many doctors warn their breast cancer patients against eating soy products.
On the other hand, there are some that believe that soy may protect a woman from breast cancer. Why? Because the strength of the soy isoflavones' estrogen-like powers is weak — like 1/1000th the "umph" of estradiol, your own body's regular estrogen. If the weaker soy isoflavones occupy the estrogen receptors instead of your body's stronger stuff, then the belief is that the receptors will be less "turned on," and the cells will be less likely to grow. These soy enthusiasts believe that the lower risk of breast cancer seen in Asian women living in Asia may be due in part to their use of soy as their main source of protein. (Of course, it isn't that simple, since these same women are doing other things that may reduce their risk: not smoking, minimal or no alcohol use, regular exercise, likelihood of being close to their ideal body weight, minimal consumption of animal fats from limited use of meats and dairy products over a lifetime.) So now you're probably asking: "What I am supposed to do until this whole controversy is worked out? I'd like to know how to make healthy choices for myself today — not 5 years from now when the answer is in!" Here's where you just have to rely on your best judgment and the cautious recommendations of responsible scientists, dietitians, and of course your own doctor, and research. It's OK to eat soy in the form of soy foods up to a few times per week, as a healthy source of protein (no cholesterol; many fat-free products are also available) instead of chicken and meat. You should not feel comfortable with using significant amounts of the processed soy products that come in the form of powders, tablets, capsules, drinks, etc., because it's entirely unknown if the soy isoflavones are safe in such high concentrations. Who knows — maybe they might stimulate the breast tissue excessively at such high levels. So try to eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and grains (soybeans are beans). Buy organic and wash all produce off well. Don't overcook them. Use high-fat dips and salad dressings sparingly. When it comes to food (and other things too, of course), make sure you enjoy yourself. Your breast cancer experience has already "stolen" some of your joy, and now is the time to find ways to rediscover the pleasure in living — not to destroy it. Don't punish yourself with unrealistic expectations and things you don't like. Moderation is key. Life is too short to be fighting with yourself. You must believe that this is very important.
GOOD QUESTION: I'm confused about soy. Is it that those of us who had breast cancer should not use soy powder or eat tofu, etc., or is it that some people were taking too much soy powder and therefore the rest of us were cautioned against it?
GOOD ANSWER: The soy question is definitely confusing and controversial. Here is the concern about soy: The estrogen-like substances (isoflavones) in soy may stimulate the estrogen receptors of breast cancer cells and make them grow. It's this potential danger that makes many doctors warn their breast cancer patients against eating soy products.
On the other hand, there are some that believe that soy may protect a woman from breast cancer. Why? Because the strength of the soy isoflavones' estrogen-like powers is weak — like 1/1000th the "umph" of estradiol, your own body's regular estrogen. If the weaker soy isoflavones occupy the estrogen receptors instead of your body's stronger stuff, then the belief is that the receptors will be less "turned on," and the cells will be less likely to grow. These soy enthusiasts believe that the lower risk of breast cancer seen in Asian women living in Asia may be due in part to their use of soy as their main source of protein. (Of course, it isn't that simple, since these same women are doing other things that may reduce their risk: not smoking, minimal or no alcohol use, regular exercise, likelihood of being close to their ideal body weight, minimal consumption of animal fats from limited use of meats and dairy products over a lifetime.) So now you're probably asking: "What I am supposed to do until this whole controversy is worked out? I'd like to know how to make healthy choices for myself today — not 5 years from now when the answer is in!" Here's where you just have to rely on your best judgment and the cautious recommendations of responsible scientists, dietitians, and of course your own doctor, and research. It's OK to eat soy in the form of soy foods up to a few times per week, as a healthy source of protein (no cholesterol; many fat-free products are also available) instead of chicken and meat. You should not feel comfortable with using significant amounts of the processed soy products that come in the form of powders, tablets, capsules, drinks, etc., because it's entirely unknown if the soy isoflavones are safe in such high concentrations. Who knows — maybe they might stimulate the breast tissue excessively at such high levels. So try to eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and grains (soybeans are beans). Buy organic and wash all produce off well. Don't overcook them. Use high-fat dips and salad dressings sparingly. When it comes to food (and other things too, of course), make sure you enjoy yourself. Your breast cancer experience has already "stolen" some of your joy, and now is the time to find ways to rediscover the pleasure in living — not to destroy it. Don't punish yourself with unrealistic expectations and things you don't like. Moderation is key. Life is too short to be fighting with yourself. You must believe that this is very important.
secure gaza, palestine.
plow the gaza strip down.
push the inhabitants 20 miles or so into the egyptian sinai.
imprison all homicidal zionists and jihadists.
secure the borders.
secure israeli/palestian nationals' in palestine and israel.
secure gaza, palestine.
1/8/09
braised endive risotto
free-associating on the web...
michelleknits said...
One of the first cookbooks I got was a Lorna Sass one, about the glories of a pressure cooker, but I still don't have one. And I haven't tried to make a risotto in years, though I just might soon. At Sacred Chow (on the same street as purl) I ate tapas with a friend, and one of them was a braised endive risotto -- excellent!
8:06 AM
Stacey said...
Oh, I've been to purl. It's a few blocks south of S.C. on Sullivan. I do love Sacred Chow...
1:05 PM
One of the first cookbooks I got was a Lorna Sass one, about the glories of a pressure cooker, but I still don't have one. And I haven't tried to make a risotto in years, though I just might soon. At Sacred Chow (on the same street as purl) I ate tapas with a friend, and one of them was a braised endive risotto -- excellent!
8:06 AM
Stacey said...
Oh, I've been to purl. It's a few blocks south of S.C. on Sullivan. I do love Sacred Chow...
1:05 PM
1/7/09
mother
a journey alone we take.
and at times, it is u that i want
to help make
it all right.
but it is in the strength of me
that i see
the girth of a redwood tree.
i see too that i've known u, well, and i am not here alone.
it is your slender sway, the color of sunshine & bone w/ rippled polka dots
& tea-green leaves, that tickles my belly.
a journey alone, a soothing home.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
