The
Daily
Fix
For load:
Za'atar Chicken Drumsticks with Cucumber Herb Slaw
Are We All Addicted to Sugar?
Deadlift 5-5-5-5-5 reps
Roasted chicken drumsticks coated in a fresh, homemade za'atar spice blend, paired with a refreshing cucumber herb slaw.
Dr. Nicole Avena argues that while sugar isn’t officially classified as an addictive substance, it behaves like one by hijacking the brain’s dopamine reward system—similar to drugs or alcohol.
Additionally, practice L-sits for 20 minutes.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken Drumsticks
6 chicken drumsticks (about 1½ lbs)
2 Tbsp butter, melted
1 Tbsp dried oregano
1 Tbsp sesame seeds
2 tsp ground sumac
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Cucumber Herb Slaw
1 cup cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh mint, chopped
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Macronutrients
Protein: 87g
Fat: 88g
Carbs: 14g
Preparation
Prepare the Za'atar Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the dried oregano (1 Tbsp), sesame seeds (1 Tbsp), ground sumac (2 tsp), and dried thyme (1 tsp) until well combined.
Set aside for seasoning the chicken.
Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the chicken drumsticks (6 drumsticks) with melted butter (2 Tbsp), the homemade za'atar blend, garlic powder (½ tsp), smoked paprika (½ tsp), sea salt (½ tsp), and black pepper (¼ tsp) until evenly coated. Place the drumsticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Cucumber Herb Slaw: While the chicken roasts, place the julienned cucumber (1 cup), sliced red onion (¼ cup), chopped parsley (2 Tbsp), and chopped mint (2 Tbsp) in a bowl. Drizzle with lemon juice (1 Tbsp) and olive oil (1 Tbsp). Season with sea salt (¼ tsp) and black pepper (¼ tsp). Toss gently to combine and chill until ready to serve.
Assemble the Dish: Serve the crispy za'atar chicken drumsticks hot with a generous side of cucumber herb slaw. Drizzle extra olive oil over the slaw or add a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired.
From early childhood, we’re conditioned to crave sweetness, and as we grow, repeated exposure builds tolerance, leading us to need more sugar to feel the same pleasure. This cycle is reinforced by the food industry, which profits from our dependence on sugar-rich products. Over time, excessive sugar intake can harm brain function, particularly the hippocampus, leading to memory decline, reduced cognitive ability, and even brain shrinkage. Just one or two sugary drinks a day can significantly age the brain.
By becoming more aware of how sugar affects our brain and behavior, individuals can take steps to reduce their intake, retrain their reward systems, and improve long-term mental and physical health.
Dr. Avena was also recently featured in a BSI Medical Society Webinar, which can be viewed here.
COMMENTS
Modifications: weights in kilograms.
Results: 90 - 100 - 110 - 120 - 125
Notes: grip strength over multiple reps continues to be the limiting factor.
90-95-100-105-110 kg
Sub
Single leg DB RDL - hand supported - 5 / side
10-15-20-25-30#
*no l sits, did C2 rower wod