Sunday 31 July 2016
Saturday 30 July 2016
Almond and Honey Breakfast Puffs
The post Almond and Honey Breakfast Puffs appeared first on Deliciously Ella.
from Deliciously Ella http://deliciouslyella.com/almond-and-honey-breakfast-puffs/
via Free Spiritual Marketing
Neal’s Yard Remedies Collaboration!
I’m so excited to tell you about a collaboration I’ve been working on with Neal’s Yard Remedies for the last eighteen months. It’s been so hard keeping it a secret from you all, but I hope you’re all going to love our products. We have a beautiful moisturiser and facial wash launching next week!
I wanted to tell you all a bit more about the collaboration today and how it came about. I first got interested in natural beauty about four years ago, after I’d been eating this way for a year or so. During that year I’d become really interested in what I was putting in my body and was starting to lovea more natural approach to diet and that love gradually expanded to different areas of this lifestyle. I started to look into what I was putting onto my body, as well as into it, and began to research products that I could swap in for what I had been using. Over the next few months when one product ran out I’d swap it in for something with more natural, organic ingredients and often those were from Neal’s Yard Remedies. I became a fan of their brand very quickly, so when they got in touch two years ago to ask me to develop some recipes for a new superfood complex they were creating I was really excited! Following that I went down to their factory in Dorset and instantly felt such a connection to what they were doing and what the brand stood for, as it was so clear that they were totally authentic in their promise of natural, organic products. There are definitely a lot of fake natural brands out there, but they’re absolutely not one of them, which is why I love working with them so much. They use organic ingredients, do no animal testing and are very environmentally friendly – they’re even the first healthy and beauty brand to be awarded 100/100 for ethics in the Good Shopping Guide, which is amazing.
Once I’d fallen in love with the company we started the process of putting the two products together, which was so fun. Lots of trips down to their factory, lots of time playing around with different smell combination and lots of time spent listening and learning about all the different ingredients. I wanted to create something that connected the idea of what you put into your body having an effect on your skin, so we included lots of foodie ingredients in there from turmeric to cucumber, lime, blueberries, coconut, avocado, acai and lots more. I’m also a rose fanatic when it comes to bathroom smells, so we included that in there too, which makes the products smell so beautiful. The hints of lime and cucumber really freshen up the rose though, to create something really unique.
The products will be in all their stores and online from the 4th of August, and we’re doing a launch at Wilderness Festival next weekend, which should be really fun! If you want to sign up and get more info, click the link here – by signing up you also enter a competition to win a hamper of my favourite Neal’s Yard Remedies products, including our new Rose, Lime and Cucumber Facial Wash and Moisturiser. I’m counting down the days until they’re released now and so looking forward to hearing what you all think!
The post Neal’s Yard Remedies Collaboration! appeared first on Deliciously Ella.
from Deliciously Ella http://deliciouslyella.com/neals-yard-remedies-collaboration/
via Free Spiritual Marketing
Friday 29 July 2016
Family Friday (vol. 27): …And then came week 33.
This isn’t my first rodeo and I knew that eventually, I’d feel pregnant in all of the unpleasant ways. This pregnancy, that turn from happy-go-lucky pregnant to how-many-more-days-of-this happened at 33 weeks, on the dot. Today, I’m 34 weeks, 3 days and officially, there are 39 days until my due date. I…can…do…it!
So, what changed? I haven’t a clue.
My weight gain since my last OB appointment 2 weeks ago: Nada. I lost a pound, in fact. Total weight gain to date is a respectable 17 pounds.
I’ve had some common un-pleasantries pop up. Like indigestion. I keep Tums next to my bed. And in my office. And in my purse. And oh, frequent trips to the bathroom. I sleep in little naps, running to and from the bathroom no less than 3-4 times a night. Sometimes it’s like 6-7 bathroom trips and that’s just…ugh.
Then there’s my left thigh. It’s numb, especially after I’ve spent any length of time standing or walking. Even household chores and getting out of the house in the morning for work leave my left thigh tingling and numb. It’s a weird sensation and definitely not enjoyable. I have spent as many evening hours as possible laying on my right side, trying to take pressure off the nerve that this baby seems to be laying on. My OB has also recommended I see a chiropractor, but getting an appointment sooner rather than later has proved challenging.
There’s also the heat. I shouldn’t complain – it’s July, afterall, and we live in a beach town. It’s ideal to have a hot, hot summer…but I can’t do a thing outdoors without turning into a sweaty mess. Quite unpleasant, especially with a toddler in tow. Case in point: our maternity photos at the beach this morning. I was a sweaty mess from the start and add to that Mr. Prevention squinting in the sun and a completely uncooperative toddler, plus TONS of biting flies. Yep, it was a total disaster.
I’ve pretty much decided that I’m giving myself a bit of a reprieve during these last weeks – focusing more on making it through work, spending time with Shea before she’s no longer the one and only, and preparing mentally and physically for 2 under 2, rather than pushing myself beyond my comfortable limits to continue with my workouts and keeping up with the FitBit world. Just last night I actually removed my FitBit because I want to focus on feeling better and including workouts that are beneficial, even if they’re not “earning me” steps (swimming, stationary bike, etc). I told you, I’ve become quite obsessed with my FitBit!
Truly, however, this pregnancy has been a breeze. No morning sickness like so many women I know. No extreme fatigue. No (debilitating) carpal tunnel. No unbearable back pain starting at 14 weeks like with Shea (the back pain has just begun, but I expect that at this point in the game). I feel beyond blessed! And this little girl is active in the womb, my goodness. I never worry about her in there 
Other than my due date quickly approaching, we’re starting to work on plans for go time – who will be with Shea, etc. I’m beginning to think about a tentative last day of work before maternity leave (September 1? Assuming I make it that far. I’m due September 6th). Last night was my “sprinkle” hosted by my coworkers and they are too sweet. It was a beautiful night, we dined outside, and they got me the Tula that matches the nursery. I love it!
39 days and counting down! Woo!
Happy weekend to you!
Be well,
from Prevention RD http://preventionrd.com/2016/07/family-friday-vol-27-and-then-came-week-33/
via Heart Based Marketing
Friday FAQs: Potluck options, Raw Chocolate Brownie swaps, fun lunch ideas, and more!
It’s hard to believe we’re on the cusp of another long weekend here in Canada! Is it really August 1st on Monday!? We’re looking forward to celebrating our friends’ wedding tomorrow, and getting together with some neighbours and their kiddos for a pool day on Sunday. Oh, and a 3-day reprieve from all this renovation noise, hah. Should be a good one! I hope you enjoy yours, too.
Q1. Hi Angela, I’ve got a potluck SOS! On the August long weekend we have a big horseshoes competition at my cottage, and this year I’m stumped for what to bring to the dinner afterward. It’s my first year going as a vegan, and I want to bring something I can eat but that everyone else will enjoy, too. Do you have any ideas? I thought about your Crowd-Pleasing Vegan Caesar Salad, but then I remembered at least three different people always bring Caesar salads!!
A. Hey Cassie, Sounds like you have a fun weekend in store! For a hearty entrée-type dish, my Crowd-Pleasing Tex-Mex Casserole (The Oh She Glows Cookbook p. 149) is bound to be a hit at your potluck—its name’s well earned! You could also try my Next Level Vegan Enchiladas or Life-Affirming Warm Nacho Dip (p. 83) served with tortilla chips. For all three, I would try assembling beforehand, storing it in a cooler, and cooking it just prior to serving. For a quick, low-fuss appetizer, you could make some homemade hummus (like my Classic Hummus in The Oh She Glows Cookbook p. 89) and pair it with a platter of homemade or store-bought pitas, breads, and/or crackers (my Endurance Crackers are great served with hummus!). A couple solid alternatives to the Caesar salad standby include my Best Shredded Kale Salad and Tangy Cilantro-Lime Quinoa Salad. For both of those salads, I would wait to mix in the dressing until shortly before serving so it stays fresh and flavourful. And dessert-wise, it’s hard to go wrong with portable, easy-to-serve Almond Butter Rice Crisp Treats. I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t love those. I hope these ideas get the wheels turning, Cassie—have a happy and safe long weekend!
Q2. Your Two-Layer Raw Chocolate Brownies look amazing! I love the idea of double chocolate. Is there a substitution for walnuts?
A. Hi Katie, The walnuts lend a nice “brownie” flavour, but you can absolutely substitute them if need be! Pecans are probably the most popular swap, but I’d think almonds would work well, too. Almonds are a bit drier than walnuts or pecans so you might need to add a touch of water when processing to help it hold together. Be sure to let us know what you come up with!
Q3. Hi. I am trying to eat healthy but watch calories/fat after having baby #4. Do you post nutritional information anywhere? Also I would like to refer patients to you but many are diabetic and also watching weight, so they need to keep track of macros.
A. Hi Lori, Big congrats on baby #4! What an exciting time for you and your family (and slightly busy, I imagine!). With respect to your question, you’ll find some older recipes have nutritional information available. I’m also happy to let you know that the nutritional info for all of the recipes in my second cookbook, Oh She Glows Every Day, will be available on my website by the time the book launches this September. For recipes on the blog and in my first cookbook that don’t currently have nutritional info available, I recommend using a free online tool like NutritionData.com or CalorieCount.com, or an app like MyFitnessPal. (Side note: I do receive a lot of requests for nutritional information, so if there are any registered dietitian students out there who are looking for some supplementary intern work, please send your updated resume to careers@ohsheglows.com with the subject line: Nutritional Analysis. Thanks!)
Q4. I love these vegan lunch ideas, but I have one problem: my partner and I work from home, and he will not eat another sandwich, soup or salad, he was mostly raised on those, so not sure what to do for lunches anymore. Anyone have ideas? He cannot have lentils or beans of any kind, thanks.
A. Hi Jerry, Oh, that’s a tough one! I find the benefit of working at home, though, is that you have full access to your kitchen, so that should help expand your options a bit more. My Broccoli & Cashew Cheese-Quinoa Burritos (The Oh She Glows Cookbook p. 159) are a tasty possibility; the filling could be prepared beforehand, stored in the fridge in an airtight container, and reheated then placed in a tortilla wrap when you’re ready to have it for lunch. Sometimes just switching up the traditional sandwich into a wrap makes things so much more exciting! You could also do the same with my other burrito fillings (try my newest DIY Burrito Bowl or my Black Bean and Butternut Squash Burritos from back in 2011!). If he can’t have beans, you could simply leave them out or swap them for more veggies, tofu, or quinoa. Again, you can prepare the filling in advance and simply reheat the leftovers and wrap it up for lunch. Easy and so tasty! The filling often tastes even better the next day, too.
If you’re open to a “second breakfast”–type meal, I’d recommend my Sunrise Scramble with Roasted Home Fries & Avocado Toast (p. 33). Or, if you’re really on board with second breakfast, there’s nothing wrong with going for a hearty smoothie bowl (like my Green Tea Lime Pie Smoothie Bowl), overnight oats, or a meal-sized protein smoothie. Sometimes when it’s really hot out I make a huge meal-sized smoothie that’s packed with hemp, chia, protein powder, veggies, fruit, and more.
You could also whip up my Life-Affirming Warm Nacho Dip (p. 83). Stored in an airtight container, it can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 5 days and easily reheated in the oven, so you can make a batch one evening and let it feed you for at least a couple lunchtimes (depending on how quickly you gobble it down! It never seems to last very long in our house…).
Comments of the week:
“Angela, I have been making variations of this salad since I saw your post years ago and finally have to say…it is the best thing ever! A few years ago I opted to eat less meat based products. (I love cheese…so I haven’t given up dairy) and this was the first thing I made from your blog…totally saved me! Love it! I usually only use 1/2 the oil and have substituted other dried or fresh fruits for the dried cranberries. Delish! And, I have shared your site and this recipe so many times that I am no longer able to take it to certain outings…others in our group bring it instead. Thanks for the recipes! ( Your cookbook is also my favorite.)”
That’s too funny, Mindy—you know your go-to recipe is a hit when people start borrowing it! Thanks for leaving the awesome comment, sharing those modifications with us, and spreading the Oh She Glows love. I’m so happy you enjoy the cookbook so much, too!
“Thank you so much for this Chocolate Raspberry Dreams Breakfast Parfait, Angela! My son is two weeks old and preparing breakfast while holding him has been a challenge, so I really needed to find healthy breakfast recipes that I could prepare the night before. This parfait just made my day…so nutritious, delicious, and easy to make!:)”
Theresa, I can so relate to “preparing breakfast while holding” your kiddo! My 22-month-old still loves to be picked up so she can watch me cook. ;) (Who knew food prep could be a workout too?!) But yes, prepping breakfast in advance is so key, and I’m so glad you’re enjoying the parfaits! It’s a nice change from the typical smoothie or bowl of oats. Congrats on your little one, by the way! I’m so excited to have a newborn in my arms again soon. :) Soak him up.
PS – That little slice of deliciousness at the top of the post is my Double Dark Chocolate Macaroon Tart. Never a bad idea.
from Oh She Glows http://ohsheglows.com/2016/07/29/friday-faqs-potluck-options-raw-chocolate-brownie-swaps-fun-lunch-ideas-and-more/
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My Favorite Books on Habit and Behavior Change
One of the greatest illusions I’ve had to overcome in my life is that I’m a rational human being. Sure I try to be, and sometimes I might succeed. But the more I’ve studied neuroscience and psychology, the more evidence I’ve seen that a ridiculously small number of human behaviors are a direct result of rational, critical thought.
Instead the vast majority of our behavior is directed by habits and heuristics, mental short cuts that prevent us from having to think too much, a perilously slow process that takes far too much effort to be useful in most everyday situations.
Of course that isn’t the way it seems to us as we go through our day. The conscious part of our brain is tremendously skilled at making meaning and reasons for everything we do and encounter, even if it isn’t privy to all the facts.
We come up with stories that jive with our beliefs and what we’ve experienced in the past. Everything that happens to us we view through this lens. To quote Anais Nin, “We don’t see the world as it is, we see it as we are.”
While our ability think quickly and make predictions is tremendously helpful in our day-to-day lives, it can also make us woefully blind to reality when our expectations are based on erroneous assumptions.
Facts are surprisingly easy for our conscious brains to ignore if they don’t play nicely with the stories our minds generate. The people voting against your favorite candidate are ignorant fools, right? Yet we’re always a little surprised when someone on the other side of the political aisle is actually a nice, thoughtful person.
Reality, especially when it comes to complex issues like another person’s behavior (or even our own behavior), is often more nuanced than our simplistic judgements can see.
Not only does this result in many incongruous situations––sometimes hilarious, sometimes deeply painful––it also makes it difficult for us to change our habits. When we hold on to one story about the world or about ourselves, it can make the path to change virtually invisible.
One thing I try to do here at Summer Tomato is reveal those irrational beliefs and help you change the stories that hold you back from making changes that can improve your life. These faulty beliefs come from many places, from the dieting industry (“No pain, no gain”), to our culture (“Beauty is thin”) to our families (“Food is love”).
I could write until I’m blue in the fingers explaining why restrictive dieting does more harm than good, or why processed foods are dangerous, or the benefits of eating more vegetables. But if you’re interpreting my words through one of the above lenses change will be nearly impossible.
Changing beliefs is hard, because we identify with them so strongly that we usually can’t see them. Over the years I’ve read a number of excellent books that have helped me understand this process and I want to share some of them with you today.
Awareness of how your mind works can help you identify with it less, and is one of the most powerful tools for freeing yourself from the illusion of your beliefs.
These are the books that have influenced my thinking on how our thoughts shape our actions, many of which I’ve read since writing Foodist. I’ve also included some of the classics in case you’re new to the subject.
I’ve grouped these into rough categories around topics such as habits, motivation, and happiness. If you think there’s a great book I’m missing here, feel free to let me know in the comments.
Oh, and if you’re curious about what else I like to read feel free to follow me on Goodreads (warning: I’m a little obsessed with sci-fi).
Habits
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg
The End of Overeating: Taking Control of the Insatiable American Appetite by David A. Kessler
Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions by Dan Ariely
Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip Heath
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell
Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think by Brian Wansink
Beliefs
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck
Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life With the Heart of a Buddha by Tara Brach
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal
Redirect: Changing the Stories We Live By by Timothy Wilson
Rising Strong by Brene Brown
Self-Compassion: Stop Beating Yourself Up and Leave Insecurity Behind by Kristin Neff
Motivation
Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength by Roy Baumeister, John Tierney, Denis O’Hare
The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do to Get More of It by Kelly McGonigal
No Sweat: How the Simple Science of Motivation Can Bring You a Lifetime of Fitness by Michelle Segar
Finding Your Way to Change: How the Power of Motivational Interviewing Can Reveal What You Want and Help You Get There by Allan Zuckoff, Bonnie Gorscak
Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Amy Cuddy
Super Better: A Revolutionary Approach to Getting Stronger, Happier, Braver and More Resilient -Powered by the Science of Games by Jane McGonigal
Happiness
Better Than Before: What I Learned About Making and Breaking Habits–to Sleep More, Quit Sugar, Procrastinate Less, and Generally Build a Happier Life by Gretchen Rubin
Stumbling on Happiness by Dan Gilbert
The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom by Jonathan Haidt
Mind & Brain
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Olive Sacks
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
On Becoming a Person: A Therapist’s View of Psychotherapy by Carl R. Rogers
Subliminal: How Your Unconscious Mind Rules Your Behavior by Leonard Mlodinow
What books have influenced your beliefs?
from Summer Tomato http://summertomato.com/my-favorite-books-on-habit-and-behavior-change
via Holistic Clients
Obliterate Back Pain with Iyengar Yoga
Yoga allows you to find a new kind of freedom that you may not have known even existed.” ~ B.K.S. Iyengar
How Iyengar yoga can help relieve back pain
Suffering from back pain but not sure if yoga is the answer? Experts believe that far from being confined to alternative therapy, Iyengar yoga can make a real difference in combating chronic back pain. Read on and find out why more and more doctors are referring their patients for Iyengar yoga therapy.
What is Iyengar yoga?
Iyengar yoga is a very progressive form of yoga that focuses on the correct alignment of each posture. It was created by B.K.S. Iyengar, widely considered one of the greatest yoga teachers in the world, who died in August 2014. B.K.S. Iyengar sparked a yoga craze across the western world and there are over 100 Iyengar yoga centers across the globe. But what makes his form of yoga so unique?
First of all, the precision needed for each posture demands a focused and concentrated mind, so if we see a student coming in to class with a lot on their mind, they will be taught how to get rid of it so that they can focus on the poses with absolute clarity. Each pose, once perfected, must be held for a long time to get the maximum benefit. Iyengar yoga helps with flexibility, strength, stamina and stability and is used more and more to help people suffering from alignment issues or back pain. Practicing Iyengar yoga also reduces tension and stress, both well-known triggers that can make chronic back pain even worse. So trying Iyengar yoga won’t just help with back pain – it does wonders for improving one’s mood, too.
What’s the evidence?
We’ve noticed a greater focus on medical studies proving that Iyengar yoga is a front-runner in helping people overcome chronic back pain. One published study showed that people suffering from back pain tried a number of ways to relieve their symptoms, including conventional physical exercises, Iyengar yoga, or self-help therapy. Iyengar yoga achieved the best results, with patients confirming that their back pain was reduced and they were able to function far more easily. These studies have helped Iyengar yoga to break away from the confines of alternative therapy and become a serious contender for medical experts when looking at ways to relieve back pain.
Why are props used in Iyengar yoga?
Props are one of the many reasons why Iyengar yoga is so unique. They are used simply as an aid, so that people suffering from pain or limitations can be supported to achieve each pose and hold it for long enough to achieve the maximum benefits. Common props used in Iyengar yoga are blocks, belts, or blankets. So students who may have chronic back pain can use blankets or belts to help them try poses that they otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do. As their confidence grows and they can hold the correct pose longer, the use of props can always be reduced.
Why exercise to help your back pain?
It’s now widely understood that keeping still in the hope that back pain will disappear is one of the worst things you can do – it can actually make the pain last longer. So creating a gentle, regular exercise regime alongside Iyengar yoga is absolutely the best way forward.
As well as helping to reduce tension and improve strength and flexibility, exercise releases endorphins, making us feel great and producing more energy. Back pain can be very tough to deal with psychologically and a good exercise regime, including Iyengar yoga, keeps the mind focused and positive. We always advise anyone suffering from back pain to exercise regularly and aim for at least 2 and a half hours spread across the week.
Top tips for a healthy back
We’ve talked about how Iyengar yoga can help to reduce chronic back pain, increase strength and flexibility and focus your mind. Here are some additional tips for maintaining a healthy back and minimizing the risk of further back problems:
- Maintain a healthy weight. This will reduce pressure and keep you feeling great.
- Use Iyengar yoga and breathing exercises to reduce stress and tension, both major triggers of back pain. Achieving the best possible wellbeing is all about being kind to the mind as well as the body.
- Watch posture – this is particularly important for people working in offices and sitting down for most of the day. We advise people to remember not to hunch, check the height of their desk and change their office chair if needed.
- Mattresses need checking regularly to make sure they are giving the right support.
- Remember to lift heavy items properly every time. We all know we need to bend our knees, not our back – but how many of us remember to do it?
- Young children count as heavy weights! For anyone with little ones, it’s vital to watch how you lift children out of the car and avoid twisting your back.
- Exercise isn’t just a way to relieve back pain – it’s a vital way to keep your back healthy. Once you’ve found an exercise regime that works for you, keep doing it.
Getting professional advice
Finally, it’s vital to get the right advice about back pain. We always advise anyone suffering from back pain to speak to their doctor or physiotherapist before starting any exercise regime, including Iyengar yoga. While yoga can do wonders for many types of back pain, it might not be suitable for others. If you suffer from back pain your doctor or physiotherapist should be able to provide you with professional guidance on whether Iyengar is a good alternative to traditional back treatments.
“It is through the alignment of the body that I discovered the alignment of my mind, self, and intelligence.” ~ B.K.S. Iyengar
——————–
Editor’s notes: This is a guest post by Coast Yoga. Coast Yoga runs the Iyengar Yoga Centre south of Adelaide, Australia, where they run a wide range of yoga classes suitable for all abilities from beginners up to advanced level. Coast Yoga prides itself in creating sequences for each class designed to build strength, flexibility, balance, and stamina. Coast Yoga focuses on each student’s development so that everyone can reach their full potential. For more information about Coast Yoga’s classes, please visit http://www.coastyoga.com.au/about/.
from Daily Cup of Yoga http://www.dailycupofyoga.com/2016/07/29/obliterate-back-pain-with-iyengar-yoga/
via Holistic Clients
Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Noodle Bowls
Get your meal prep on with these delicious Hawaiian Chicken Noodles Bowls made with shredded chicken, tons of veggies, and rice noodles! Happy Fridayyyyyy! Guess what I’m doing today? DRIVING TO MILWAUKEEEEEE. I’m sure you think I’m absolutely crazy when it comes to travel, but I wouldn’t have it any other way at this point...
The post Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Noodle Bowls appeared first on Fit Foodie Finds.
from Fit Foodie Finds http://fitfoodiefinds.com/2016/07/hawaiian-chicken-noodle-bowls/
via Holistic Clients
Thursday 28 July 2016
South America Gets Its First Free Airport Yoga…Guess Where?
from YogaDork http://yogadork.com/2016/07/28/south-america-gets-its-first-free-airport-yoga-guess-where/
via SEO Totnes
Summer Glow Buddha Bowl + News!
If I could live off of one thing, I’m pretty sure it would be some kind of plant-based bowl. It’s hard to beat the combo of seasonal veggies, whole grains, beans/legumes, nuts/seeds, all topped off with an incredible dressing. I’m rarely disappointed. This bowl in particular is inspired by Kerr Street Cafe’s Buddha Bowl (a local restaurant), which I treated myself to the other week. Let’s just say this preggo mama basically had to waddle out of the café, because I could not stop eating despite baby nudging me that space was getting a bit tight in there. (Thankfully, I came armed with an empire waist dress!) I knew I had to recreate the bowl at home, and I’m sharing my delicious take on it today.
Before I get to the recipe, though, I have a couple exciting pieces of news to share!
1) We recently found out that The Oh She Glows Cookbook is the Top Canadian-Authored Book of 2015! Umm what the what!? I can’t even wrap my mind around this news and couldn’t be more grateful to you for your support. Here’s an excerpt from Booknet Canada’s article:
"The Oh She Glows Cookbook was published in April 2014, yet it still occupies the number one spot, even outselling heavy-hitting non-fiction titles published in 2015 like Shift Work and even the only Canadian-authored colouring book to make the list: Fantastic Cities. As an enduring title, it sits alongside 2013’s The Inconvenient Indian and the fourth-bestselling paperback children’s book of all time according to Publisher’s Weekly, Love You Forever by Robert Munsch, which was published in 1995. The rest of the titles on the list were either published for the first time in 2015, or released in a new format."
THANK YOU from the bottom of my veggie-loving heart.
2) In case you haven’t seen this on my social media channels, Chapters/Indigo is running a pre-order contest for their Most Anticipated Books of 2016 list, and my next cookbook, Oh She Glows Every Day, is included (so cool!). You could win a basket of my favourite kitchen items, valued at $500, including a Cusinart food processor, Bodum Brazil French Press, Wusthof Classic 8-inch Vegetable Knife, Sunwarrior Warrior Blend protein powder, Do Matcha green tea powder, and more. All you have to do is pre-order the book from Indigo and be entered to win automatically (if you pre-ordered from Indigo earlier this year or last, you’re automatically entered…yay!), or you can send a mail-in entry explaining what it means to you to cook for the people you love. Be sure to check out the full contest rules here.
You can pre-order by visiting Chapters/Indigo online. This contest is open to Canadian residents (not including Quebec unfortunately—sorry guys!). A big thanks to Chapters/Indigo and Penguin Canada for making this contest possible.
At long last…onto this glow-rious food!
from Oh She Glows http://ohsheglows.com/2016/07/28/summer-glow-buddha-bowl-news/
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Vegan Grocery Store Shopping with Nana
Stop everything! Nana is back! This woman gives me life!! Though she may not remember it, she was the first person to introduce me to hummus, Ezekiel bread, pancakes, and organic food. She was the one who encouraged me to become a dancer, and then supported me with all her heart when I decided to switch to acting. And when I became infatuated with healthy eating, she was the one who told me I should pursue it as a career, and that decision has made my life so sweet.
But this video/post isn’t about Nana’s unbending encouragement of me. It’s about vegan grocery shopping. Though Nana isn’t a vegan, she knows all about vegan eating…well, she knows a lot. Nana has retired dairy butter, and replaced it with Earth Balance and coconut oil. Instead of turkey sausage, she eats Field Roast instead. Long gone are the days of fried chicken. These days Nana dines on teriyaki tempeh with farm fresh veggies. And she can cook! In this video we explore the grocery store (Sprouts), and buy some of our favorite vegan foods.
I think my Nana is a great example of how you can make a lifestyle change at any age. You wouldn’t know it by looking at her, BUT she is 80 years old! Nana has lost weight and lowered her high blood pressure medication just by giving up chicken and most dairy products (sweets are her weakness). And though Nana is a shining example of how to be beautiful, energetic, and radiant at 80, she’s also my inspiration for how to love your family. No one has supported my dreams more than Nana and my parents have; and for that I am forever grateful.
Okay, now for the video
If you have any questions for me or my Nana, let us know. We’ll be answering the comments together 
Also, I won a VegNews Bloggy Award for 2016!! Thank you to all of you who voted for Sweet Potato Soul You can find me in the July/August issue of the magazine. More on the horizon!! xo
The post Vegan Grocery Store Shopping with Nana appeared first on Sweet Potato Soul by Jenné Claiborne.
from Sweet Potato Soul by Jenné Claiborne http://sweetpotatosoul.com/2016/07/vegan-grocery-store-shopping-nana.html
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Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls
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from Running on Real Food http://runningonrealfood.com/chocolate-peanut-butter-protein-balls/
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Minnesota Series: The Boundary Waters
I LOVE SUMMER AND I DON’T EVER WANT IT TO END. I am so excited to share some photos and insider footage of my latest travels to the Boundary Waters, which is located in northern Minnesota (basically to Canada). The BWCA is over a million acres of lakes, streams, forests, etc. formed by glaciers WAY...
The post Minnesota Series: The Boundary Waters appeared first on Fit Foodie Finds.
from Fit Foodie Finds http://fitfoodiefinds.com/2016/07/minnesota-series-boundary-waters/
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Wednesday 27 July 2016
Benefits of Camel Milk: Low Allergen Alternative to Dairy
Several weeks ago my husband, baby and I were at a conference, and during one of the breaks, I noticed they had camel milk as one of the refreshments on hand (along with water, coffee, kombucha, and paleo snacks).
I was slightly taken aback, as I can count on one hand the number of actual camels I’ve seen in my lifetime (only at the zoo), and the thought of drinking camel milk had never crossed my mind before seeing the bottles they had at the refreshment stand that day.
So of course, I had to research it to find out about any potential health benefits. And what I found out is VERY interesting!
Camel milk is unique in its potential ability to help with allergies and autism, to mitigate autoimmune disease and diabetes and for heart and immune health. It has even been used around the world as a supplement to breastmilk!
Sound crazy?
I thought so too, but it turns out that the milk from a camel is an entirely different animal (pun intended) than milk from a cow or a goat.
Here’s why:
Cows, goats and other similar animals are hoofed animals. Camels have toes (only two, made of a single bone) and both their foot structure and the proteins in their milk are dramatically different than milk from hoofed animals.
To make things slightly more confusing, camels ruminate but are not considered ruminants. As unique as camels are, their milk is even more so.
What Makes Camel Milk Different?
I started researching this and was absolutely fascinated by the research on camel milk and how it is different from other types of milk.
Protein Structure
For one thing, camel milk does not contain the same proteins that people are often allergic to in cow’s milk. It does not contain A1 casein and lactoglobulin and is usually well tolerated by those with dairy allergies.
Gram for gram, it has about the same amount of protein and carbohydrates as regular cows milk, but impacts blood sugar differently.
Fat Content
This is one area where camel and cow milk differ greatly. Camels produce milk that is naturally low in fat (only 2-3%).
Also unlike cow milk, the fats produced by camels in their milk are completely homogenized naturally occurring Omega-3 fatty acids. This means that camel milk can be frozen and thawed without changing consistency. It also will not curdle or clot like cows milk.
Unique Properties
- Camels produce a very unique milk that has some rare beneficial properties. For one thing, it is high in potent immunoglobulins, powerful immune-boosting substances. The immunoglobulins in camel milk are smaller than human immunoglobulins and can more easily pass into tissues in the body.
- Researchers still don’t completely understand why, but these tiny immunoglobulins may be the reason for camel milk’s popularity in helping lessen problems like autoimmune disease, allergies and even autism.
- This milk is also high in insulin, which improves its absorption and makes it suitable for diabetics.
- Research has also found protective proteins in camel’s milk that may be antiviral, anti fungal and antibacterial.
- Though it isn’t a spectacular source, it also contains much more iron and vitamin c than cow’s milk.
Similar to Human Breastmilk
Camel milk is nutritionally more similar to human breastmilk than to regular dairy milk. For this reason, it has been used around the world as a supplement or replacement for breast milk in cases when mom was unable to nurse or baby needed extra milk.
Better for the Environment
Consider the natural habitat of camels. They survive with relatively little water and plant life for long periods of time. For this reason, camels need much less grazing area and can produce milk with a lower environmental impact.
Long History of Use
While the idea of drinking milk from a camel may seem strange to those of us who grew up in the west, cultures around the world have consumed it for thousands of years.
Camels are important to various cultures, especially in the middle east, for their ability to survive and even travel long distances with very little water. Camels can thrive even in areas where horses and cows would have trouble surviving at all.
Benefits of Camel Milk
These unique properties of camels make their milk beneficial to humans in several ways. In researching, I was amazed at the initial studies and anecdotal reports from people who had seen near miraculous recoveries with camel milk.
Help for Diabetes
Studies show that camel’s milk may be very beneficial for those with diabetes. Unlike other milks, it shouldn’t cause a rise in blood sugar, but the benefits extend beyond that. In fact, some researchers are even using this milk to reduce the amount of insulin needed:
Camel milk has been shown, said the review’s senior author, Dr Uma S Dubey, of BITS Pilani’s Rajasthan campus, to be effective in reducing the level of glycosylated or glycated haemoglobin in the blood. This is haemoglobin to which glucose is attached, and is typically found at high levels in people with diabetes. Camel milk can therefore be used to reduce the dose of insulin that diabetes patients require.
The same review article, published in the Emirates Journal of Food and Agriculture, entitled Therapeutic Potential of Camel Milk, by researchers from India’s Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, notes that there are also much lower rates of diabetes in areas where camel milk is a staple.
Another 2005 study out of India looked at camel dairy and its effects on Type 1 diabetes. This study found that regular consumption of camel milk reduced the amount of insulin needed and improved long-term blood sugar control.
Immune Boost
Camel’s milk contains many of the same immune-protecting substances as human milk. It can be an effective supplement to breastmilk for this reason.
It contains high levels of immunoglobulin A and beneficial enzymes like lysozyme and lactoperoxidase, which are helpful to the body in fighting infection.
Alleviate Allergies
Perhaps the most notable potential benefit of this unique milk is its effect in those with allergies.
Not only is it considered a good dairy alternative for allergic individuals, but there is some research indicating that it may actually help reverse allergies.
Surprised? I was too:
As I mentioned, this milk lacks A1 casein and lactoglobulin present in cow’s milk that often cause allergic reactions. There have also been studies showing that camel milk may even reduce allergies due to its immune benefits.
In fact, one 2005 study in the Journal of the Israel Medical Association investigated the effects of camel milk on children with severe allergies who didn’t respond to other treatments. Researchers had these children consume camel milk under the care of their medical team. They observed the results, which were even more astounding than expected.
Amazingly, all of the children recovered from their allergies according to the reports in the study. Additional study is needed, but the researchers in that study claimed that camel milk was more effective than medical treatments in those particular cases with no observed side effects.
This shows a tremendous potential as a hope for those struggling with life threatening allergies.
Heart and Blood Health
The monounsaturated fats (especially oleic acid) present in camel milk give it some of the same benefits as olive oil. It also contains A2 beta casein, which is different than the A1 casein found in most dairy milk. (A2 casein is present in goat milk as well, which is why some people who cannot handle cow dairy can handle goat based products.)
The A2 beta casein in camel milk may be partially responsible for the heart and immune protective effects. From Live Science:
A1 beta casein is broken down into an opioid-like peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7). BCM-7 has been shown to suppress the immune system, cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and contribute to arterial plague formation, according to Lori Chong, a registered dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. . “It has been implicated in the development of Type 1 diabetes — probably related to its immune suppression and role in GI tract inflammation.”
Other research indicates that the unique fatty acid profile in milk from camels is more beneficial to the heart and to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Autism Connection
There is a great deal of anecdotal evidence and stories from people who have used camel dairy in cases of autism.
This article delves into the potential ways that camel dairy products may help against autism. In short, some researchers believe that autism is similar to autoimmune disease in that the body attacks its own healthy cells.
Whatever the cause, there are many anecdotal accounts of recovery and entire online groups dedicated to its use.
“Dr. Jodie Dashore, a mom and doctor, heard about the milk from Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt, a highly regarded neurobiologist who treated her son Brian’s autism. In 2011, when Brian started consuming camel milk, his motor tics initially became three or four times worse—a “healing crisis,” Dashore says, as the milk killed off harmful bacteria. But after two weeks, they started to drop off. The milk also seemed to clear up a host of Brian’s other maladies, from hives to mobility difficulties, caused by an autoimmune disorder (most autism patients have other simultaneous ailments according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). It also eased Brian’s digestive pains and helped him gain weight, common issues in autistic children.
Other reports are equally amazing. A 2005 study in the International Journal of Human Development watched autistic patients who started consuming camel dairy instead of cow dairy and found:
- A 4-year old girl noticed a complete disappearance of autism symptoms in 40 days
- A 15-year old boy noticed recovery after only a month
- Multiple other patients were noticeably better after only two weeks
Of course, much more research is needed to understand the way that camel dairy products may help with autism, but the initial evidence is definitely encouraging.
Autoimmune Disease Help
As mentioned, there are researchers that believe that autism is similar to autoimmune disease. This connection may also be why some people have seen improvement from autoimmunity with camel milk.
It is generally understood that autoimmune disease is a scenario in which the immune system mistakenly attacks part of the body, thinking that healthy cells are foreign or harmful antigens. Conventional treatments for autoimmune disease often include immune-suppressing drugs that have substantial side effects.
Camel dairy, on the other hand, contains those potent but tiny immunoglobulins that may penetrate cells and help improve the immune system while targeting only harmful antigens.
In fact, Dr. Reuven Yagil, an Israeli physiology professor who is considered an expert on Camel milk and its benefits, explains that in his years of research he has seen patients control or even reverse autoimmune disease with camel milk.
On a personal note, this was how I found research on the benefits of camel milk and I am personally testing it for my own Hashimotos (I’ll update with results).
Risks and Dangers of Camel Milk?
Often, something that seems too good to be true really is. In this case, I’m yet to find the downside. As I said, more research is needed, but I couldn’t find any downsides of drinking this unusual milk.
In fact, I didn’t find any cases of allergic reactions or harmful side effects. In my limited personal testing I haven’t noticed any negative effects, even though I often react to regular dairy.
The one downside, unfortunately, is the price. As you may imagine, camel dairies are not very popular in this part of the world, and limited access means higher cost.
Where to Get Camel Milk
You won’t find camel milk on the dairy aisle of a regular grocery store. Some health food stores are starting to carry it, but it can be difficult to find a good source.
Since this milk is not from a hoofed animal, it isn’t regulated by the same laws, and it is available online and can be shipped in many places.
The best (and least expensive) source I’ve found for camel milk is the Desert Farms brand that is available for shipping anywhere in the continental US. In fact, after researching camel milk and where to purchase it, I negotiated a 15% discount from them (code: MAMACAMEL) and am personally testing this for my own autoimmune disease. A friend is also testing for her child with severe allergies.
Camel Milk: Bottom Line
This “new” milk to us in the western world has been used for thousands of years in other parts of the world. Camels are unique animals and even more unique milk that may have benefits for diabetics, autistic patients, those with autoimmune disease and in immune health.
I was also unable to find any negative side effects of camel milk (other than the price) and am willing to become my own guinea pig to test its benefits (or lack thereof).
Your turn! Have you ever heard of camel milk? Grossed out or intrigued?
Continue Reading...Benefits of Camel Milk: Low Allergen Alternative to Dairy
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How To Make The Most Out Of That Magic Hour
The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you. Don’t go back to sleep. -Rumi
By Noelle Rodriguez
Magic Hour
There is that magic hour right before dawn breaks and the sky turns a beautiful orange hue. The stillness is palpable as the sky turns one shade lighter after another. As if the darkness that enveloped the night sky was but a fading dream.
If you pay attention, you can feel the energy in the air. It is rich and buzzing with the potential of the coming day. It’s the magic hour as vibrations are high. The birth of a new day.
There are many benefits to being awake at this hour.
I find mornings to be the best time for self-care. In the silent hour before the world wakes up, it is just you and your thoughts.
There are many things you can do to make the most out of this magic hour.
5 Things You Can Do
1. Journal. There’s no better time to be reflective. Write down your stream of consciousness in longhand. Don’t edit and don’t filter. In doing this, you get your subconscious thoughts out of your head and onto paper. Don’t be surprised if a sudden burst of creativity pops up this way. Creativity often lies buried under a muck of tiresome thoughts that can make up your day-to-day.
2. Be still. When water is calm, then you see your reflection. Taking time out to clear your mind of all those mundane thoughts allows you to access a deeper level of yourself. This is your inner being, your true self. The same self that pervades all things. Watch how you feel when you let your body be. If you feel emotion, then it’s a sign that your body is in need of healing. Your body is in its natural state when you feel a bubble of joy, a giggle and happiness, however faint.
3. Move your body (in a way that pleases you). Start with gentle movements, inviting the earth’s morning energy into your system. Simple stretches get the chi (life force) flowing more freely throughout your body. I like to do some yoga in the morning. I find that it wakes me up and leaves me feeling revitalized, ready to take on the day.
4. Set your intentions for the day. What better time to set your goals for the day than when the world is just waking up. There’s something about the stillness that brings calm to the mind and also powerfully backs up your intentions with the force of the universe. Let your wishes and dreams go in detachment and know that the universe is always on your side.
5. Begin your work. I think this is the secret to many a man’s success. Starting early before their comrades are even awake. This gives you a head start to your projects, and a very resolute one at that. The peace in the morning provides the space for additional insight that may be lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
I know what you’re thinking. It’s too early! I thought the same way. I was a night owl for many years. I didn’t do anything drastic. I just let myself wake up 15 minutes earlier every day. Since I enjoyed my time alone, it started becoming easier for me to do.
Pretty soon, I was waking up a whole hour earlier, and then even earlier than that. I didn’t concern myself with what time I went to bed. My body just naturally wanted to rest earlier as well.
Nature’s Way
Getting up at dawn puts you back into the natural cycle of the world. Before lights and electronic devices were invented, people would rise with the sun and sleep when it got dark. Doing so is a huge factor in feeling strong and empowered. There is nothing that compares with the natural energy being one with the universe brings.
Try waking up earlier. Be gentle with yourself. Know that everything is a process of growth. Every day serves you in many ways. It’s up to you to see the magic in every hour of the day.
——————–
Editor’s note: This is a guest post by Noelle Rodriguez, the founder of LiFE, a yoga, music, and art studio in the Philippines. There, she spends her days meeting creative people and devising ways to further innovate in the health and wellness industry. She also teaches yoga and coaches people to be their greatest selves. You can learn more about her at noellerodriguez.com.
Photo credit: @MandukaYoga on Instagram
from Daily Cup of Yoga http://www.dailycupofyoga.com/2016/07/27/how-to-make-the-most-out-of-that-magic-hour/
via Holistic Clients
Tuesday 26 July 2016
Radiant Life: Why I Love Them & My Favorites
Did you know that:
Indoor air can be much more toxic than outdoor air?
In fact, the air in your home may be the most toxic air you encounter each day.
This is for a variety of reasons, including:
- Off-gassing from plastics used within the home
- Residue of harmful chemicals from cleaning products
- Build up of spray aerosols and personal care products
- Flame retardants from furniture and clothing
- Air fresheners and other chemicals sprayed into the air
At the same time that we are being chemically assaulted externally by the air in our homes, we are statistically not consuming enough of vital vitamins and minerals.
This two-fold problem is creating health problems for many families today and is one of the reasons I started writing this blog!
Thankfully, there are some easy ways to reduce all of these problems and a simple place that carries almost everything you need:
A Great Resource
One of my favorite places to buy things online is run by some of my favorite people: Radiant Life Catalog.
It isn’t just another online store and I’ve always been super impressed with everything I’ve ordered from there.
Here’s why:
The founders of Radiant Life, Norman and Kathy LeMoine and their children, are an awesome family. Kathy faced some health issues of her own before overhauling her family’s diet and lifestyle. Now, they run Radiant Life as a resource of only the best quality research-backed products available.
In fact, their own focus as a company centers on these ideas:
1. Connecting with Nature
- Contact with the earth’s energy through either walking barefoot or swimming in its oceans, lakes, rivers and streams. The benefits are now well documented
- Living in harmony with nature – the cycles of the sun, moon and the seasons
- Properly hydrating our bodies with pure water (we can live weeks without food but only a few days without water!)
- Breathing clean air (The essential nature of the air we breathe requires no further explanation)
2. Fueling the body with good and delicious, nutrient dense, real foods… no exceptions
3. Incorporating key supplements and remedies supported by solid science showing life extension and health benefits
4. Avoiding whenever possible and eliminating toxins including pharmaceuticals, processed foods, dangerous electromagnetic frequencies and other stressors
5. Being active while incorporating proper fitness, speed and strength training
6. Ensuring proper sleep, rest and recovery
7. Maintaining a Positive Attitude and being a lifelong learner…be not what you were yesterday, live a purposeful life, strive for economic stability, give back, express one’s creativity, become spiritually enlightened, laugh and enjoy the good company of friends and family
Everyone Else Loves Them Too!
I order from Radiant Life often and use their products daily. In fact, every time I post a picture of anything from RL on Facebook or Instagram, I get asked “where did you get that!?” dozens of times.
When it comes to a lot of the items in my kitchen, our water filter and many of my supplements, the answer is the same:
I got it at Radiant Life.
In fact, these are all of the products in my home from Radiant Life:
Kitchen Items
Many of the storage containers, plates and kitchenware I have in my kitchen came from Radiant Life:
- Stainless steel plates
- and bowls
- and cups
- Stainless pitchers
- Glass Storage Containers
- Stainless Storage Containers
- Glass Baby Bottles
Supplements
- Vitamin C
- Fermented and Extra Virgin Cod Liver Oil
- Astaxanthin
- Krill Oil
- Vitamin K
- Grass-fed liver capsules
- Prescript Assist Probiotics
Water
My husband and I researched for months and called with a hundred questions before finally getting the whole house water filter and under-sink 14-stage filter. Now that they are installed, these are virtually maintenance free for us.
Home+ Healthy Living
We also use several RL products in our home and for healthy living:
- Castor oil and castor oil packs (here’s how we use them)
- Earthing sheets and mats
Have you ever ordered from Radiant Life? Which products would you love to try?
Continue Reading...Radiant Life: Why I Love Them & My Favorites
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