March 29, 2021

Research Proves It – Chocolate Helps Prevent Stroke

Let’s face it.  Many of us love chocolate.  Yet, we may have reserved it as a once in a while treat because it has traditionally fallen into the “bad choice” category of sweets. With the results of recent research coming out of Sweden though, many chocolate lovers are going to be reunited with their former love. In doing so, they’re also going to lower their risk of stroke.  Here’s why. Chocolate:  A Superfood in a Sweet Package   Well, technically, it’s cacao, or cocoa, from which chocolate is made that’s the heart healthy, stroke preventing superfood. The more cocoa that’s in a chocolate […]
March 29, 2021

3 Simple Ways To Upgrade Your Hot Chocolate

Can’t get to your favorite café? Elevate a powdered hot chocolate packet with these effortless add-ins. Prepare hot cocoa mix as usual. Before enjoying, stir in one drop of peppermint essential oil. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of flavor and color For a warming, chai-spiced cocoa, pour powdered mix into a mug. Add a dash each of ground cinnamon and ginger and a pinch each of nutmeg and cardamom. Stir, and add hot water. Serve with a cinnamon stick for whimsy. For an adult beverage, prepare hot chocolate as usual. Before serving, stir in 1 ounce […]
March 15, 2021

Estrogenics: Are They Making Us Fat, Sick, and Infertile?

Did you know fat cells can survive in your body for 10 years? And that fat cells can retain artificial chemicals that act like excessive estrogen in your body? Here, in clear and straight-forward terms, Anthony G. Jay, Ph.D., reveals in Estrogeneration: How Estrogenics Are Making You Fat, Sick, and Infertile, how you can definitively avoid estrogenic exposures. Estrogenics are things that bind or “stick” to estrogen receptors in your body. Are flax and soy “health” foods? Are vinyl crib mattresses giving off “estrogenic emissions?” What about sunscreens and soaps? Red 40 food coloring? Grains? These are just some of […]
February 16, 2021

5 Paleo Flours for the Holiday Season

Sticking to a paleo diet can be difficult during the holidays. Between pies, sweets and gluten-heavy dishes, paleo dieters are left with few indulgences at parties and feasts. Here are five paleo-friendly flours that can make awesome alternatives to traditional, carb- and gluten-heavy all-purpose flour. Almond flour Also known as almond meal, almond flour is made from skinned almonds that are ground into a fine flour that can be great for baking. Not only is this ingredient great for paleo dieters, it’s a readily available option for those abstaining from gluten or avoiding too many carbs. Almond flour maintains an […]
February 16, 2021

Apples Could Cut Cancer Risk

Eating apples every day could slash the risk of up to five different types of cancer, according to new research published in the journal Public Health Nutrition. Scientists found those eating at least one a day were much less likely to get lung, bowel, mouth, digestive tract or breast tumors than people who rarely or never eat the popular fruit. A review of over 40 previous studies, by experts at the University of Perugia in Italy, found the biggest benefits were seen in cancer of the stomach and oesophagus, where some data suggested apples nearly halved tumour risk. Apple eaters […]
February 15, 2021

Grain-Free Avocado Sweet Potato Cake Bites

We love this recipe because we can sneak healthy fats from avocado plus fiber and antioxidants from sweet
January 19, 2021

Chia Seeds Are a Nutrient Powerhouse

Chia has gained recent popularity for good reason; these little seeds are nutrient powerhouses: High in protein (great for lean muscle, burning fat, and balancing blood sugar levels). High in fiber (providing nearly 11 grams per ounce) Anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) (this helps reduce the growth of cancer cells in both breast and cervical cancers).   Including chia seeds in your diet can deliver a healthy breakfast or afternoon energy boost because chia is associated with vitality and satiety due to the balance in fat, fiber and protein they contain. Chia absorbs water and expands, so if you enjoy […]
January 5, 2021

Zucchini Squash Bake Is Great Comfort Food

This Zucchini Squash Bake makes for delicious comfort food when the weather outside is frightful. Gluten free and vegetarian, it’s chock full of nutritious zucchini plus protein-rich ricotta. Zucchini Squash Bake Ingredients: 1 small (about 2 pounds) kabocha, red kuri or delicata squash ½ Tbs. olive oil ⅛ tsp. plus ½ tsp. salt, divided 1 small zucchini, grated (about ½ cup) ⅔ cup ricotta ½ cup grated hard cheese, such as Fontina, Emmental, Gruyère or non-aged Gouda 1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley 1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme ½ tsp. ground black pepper 1 egg (beaten) ½ tsp. ground nutmet 1 […]
December 16, 2020

Try the Top 5 Teas for Boosting Your Energy

Teas have the incredible ability to boost your energy so if you’re seeking a more vibrant feeling, consider enjoying a hot cup of tea before you try anything else. Alongside coffee, tea is one of the world’s most popular beverages and for good reason. The best teas for energy are often those with a slight boost of caffeine as well as other herbal varieties because of the stimulating effects that the compounds have for your senses. While some teas may provide a sense of energy, alertness, or focus, they also have other health benefits. All tea is hydrating which can […]
December 15, 2020

6 New Ways To Serve Winter Squash

‘Tis the season for winter squash, from acorn and butternut to kabocha and pumpkins. Enjoy these delicious, seasonal vegetables like never before, with creative new recipes. Recipes: Spaghetti Squash Fritters Makes 16 fritters; Gluten free, Vegetarian, Staff favorite 1 medium (3-4 pounds) spaghetti squash 2 tablespoons coconut oil plus extra 1 egg 1/3 cup chopped fresh mixed herbs, such as chives, thyme, sage and/or parsley 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 4 ounces goat cheese (about 2/3 cup) 2 large cloves garlic, minced Zest of 1 lemon 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground pepper 3/4 cup gluten-free flour (TRY: […]
December 14, 2020

Braised Greens Mix It Up with Squash

Nutrient-dense kale and chard team up with butternut squash, which adds brilliant color, fiber, and antioxidants. Mix it up by using other greens and winter squash. Sprinkle with finely chopped almonds before serving for an appealing crunch and extra dose of healthy fats. Braised Greens and Butternut Squash Serves 6 Ingredients: 1 small butternut squash (about 2 pounds) 2 Tbs. olive oil 4 large cloves garlic, minced 1/8-1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 2-4 Tbs. cooking liquid (vegetable broth, white wine, or water) 1 large bunch (12 ounces) kale, tough stems and ribs removed, leaves cut into 1/2-inch-wide strips 1 […]
December 1, 2020

Learning About Trans Fat In Your Food

I often discuss the importance of eating a balanced diet. Today, I want to tell you about one important component of a healthy eating plan that is often misunderstood. I’m talking about dietary fat. If you are struggling to maintain a healthy diet or lose weight, fat is just as necessary as lean protein, whole grains, fruit and vegetables. You do not need to cut all fats from your diet, as long as you avoid the fat that is truly harmful. Trans Fat Healthy eating gurus often say there are no “bad” foods, so you should eat the things you […]
November 17, 2020

Oregano Is a Spice for All Seasons

Oregano is a common spice you likely have in your kitchen for seasoning savory Italian or Mediterranean recipes. The oregano plant is native to warm climates in southwestern Europe and the Mediterranean and currently Greece, Israel and Turkey are main producers of both the spice and essential oregano oils. Oregano is closely related to other spices like mint, thyme, marjoram, basil, sage, and lavender and goes well with these flavors in food. This common spice is used in the culinary setting for a variety of savory baked goods, vegetables, pizza and pasta sauces, and protein like chicken and fish. Like […]