Split Pea Soup with Bacon

As the weather cools down we tend to crave warm comfort foods such as soups and stews. It's a great way to nourish and warm the body with healthy meats, vegetables and spices during fall and winter. Soups are a favorite of mine because of the endless variety and I am excited to share with you my favorite recipes in the coming weeks. This post I will be sharing my recipe for split pea soup with crisp bacon. MMMMM BACON!!

This split pea soup is so easy to make, inexpensive and so yummy! Prep time was only about 30 minutes with about an hour and a half of cooking time. Make extra to freeze a batch for a future dinner when you aren't in the mood to cook, but still want something healthy!

• 2 cups of Split Peas (soaked 3 hours) 
• 2 Tbs of grass-fed butter or olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic chopped
• 1/2 white or yellow onion chopped
• 3 carrots sliced
• 2 stalks of celery sliced
• 6 cups chicken broth or water
• Sea Salt & Fresh Ground Pepper
• Ground Cumin
• Smoked Paprika
• Greek Yogurt (optional)  
 

Rinse split peas and soak in clean filtered water for about 3 hours. Once soaked drain the peas.  In a large stock pan or soup pot on medium heat, add butter or olive oil until melted and saute up garlic, onions, celery and carrots cooking until onion is translucent. Add salt, pepper and cumin and paprika to veggies and add split peas. Stir until fragrant about 2-3 minutes. Add water/broth and turn heat up to medium high to bring everything to a simmer for about 5 minutes. Turn heat down to maintain a low simmer and cook until peas are tender. Stir occasionally to make sure the peas are broken up. Taste and add salt accordingly, especially if you used water instead of broth.

While soup is simmering cook up some bacon to crispy and set aside to drain. Once peas are tender you can add some bacon to the soup reserving some to sprinkle on as a topping if desired. I also like to add a dollop of homemade Greek yogurt to add some creaminess to the soup.

This was a hit in our house, especially with my husband who said "I don't even like split pea soup and this is REALLY good!" It is very easy to make and a great way to get vegetables, healthy fats and if you use homemade bone broth, you get even more nutrients. Split Pea Soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. 

Do you love split pea soup? If you try my recipe I would love to hear your thoughts! Or if you have your own variation of split pea soup that you would like to share please feel free!


Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

PAID ENDORSEMENT DISCLOSURE: This post contains paid affiliate links. In order for me to support my family and continue my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Improve Breast Health and Grow Your Breasts in 30-Days!

Okay, so I totally know the title sounds like one of those scam advertisements but keep reading because if you are interested in keeping your breasts healthy and helping them to grow bigger you are about to get some some useful information that could change your life! Also, since October is Breast Health Awareness month I thought it would be appropriate to share some information on how women can keep their boobies happy and healthy!

Let's be honest, in our society there is quite a bit of emphasis on breasts from both men and women. For many women their self confidence is associated with their body, including breasts, and not everyone is fortunate enough to have breasts they are happy with. This often leads to women having expensive and risky cosmetic surgery as a means to achieve their ideal breasts. But what about a natural way? Does one exist? Until recently I thought that answer was no. Never being blessed in the boob department anyways I had finally grown accustomed to my small "Girls", but after having two children that I breast fed each for a year they were even smaller than ever. Cosmetic surgery was something I was not very interested in because of the risk factor and felt there was really no other option.

I began to research if there were any natural ways to help them grow and found quite a bit of information in regards to breast massage for women's health with the benefits of preventing breast cancer and helping them to grow naturally! Apparently breast massage paired with a few other techniques was the key to promote breast health and also help the size to increase. Of course I couldn't wait to try and see if it really worked and if nothing else at least I could incorporate the breast massage as a preventative measure. I am happy to report that IT WORKED! My breasts increased a cup size in about a month and felt so healthy. My husband, who was not convinced it would work, totally noticed a difference and couldn't believe it! I, of course, am ecstatic and am more determined than ever to see if they continue to grow!

I wanted to shout this news from the mountain tops! I wanted to tell every Itty-Bitty Titty Committee member the good news! And what better way to do it than blogging about it!

Diet & Exercise

 

Just like most things, diet and exercise play a key role. When your body is healthy you will look healthy. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables daily and getting at least 30 minutes of exercise a day promote a healthy body. This is essential if you want your body to perform optimally. I began to take a little bit of time each day to get some yoga in. Certain exercises such as push ups or yoga Chaturangas can help to strengthen muscles around the breast. I incorporated a daily green smoothie (2-4 cups a day) to add more fruits and veggies to my diet. Eating Phytoestrogen rich foods such as legumes, flax seeds, peas and bran encourage the body to naturally create estrogen which is essential in regulating hormones without drugs.

Herbs & Supplements

 

From my research I found some herbs and supplements to add to my diet to help in my attempt at bigger boobs. After all, I was going to give this some effort. I wanted to go BIG or go home, literally! I included Fenugreek (where to buy) and Evening Primrose Oil (where to buy), which I already had on hand after pregnancy and breastfeeding. I took 3 pills of each daily. Studies show these supplements promote healthy breast tissue. Fenugreek contains estrogen which helps to increase breast growth. I also began to supplement with Magnesium which is a key mineral in encouraging the body to produce progesterone, among many other bodily function.You can read more on the importance of Magnesium in my post HERE.  It is important that a woman has a healthy balance of both estrogen and progesterone for optimal health.  

Breast Massage

 

Breast massage techniques are common in Ayurveda, Lomi Lomi, Chinese Massage and other traditional medicine systems. For me this technique was the kicker. I noticed such a difference thanks to this self breast massage. At first it seemed a little daunting. The massage could take up to 20 minutes and it was recommended to be done twice a day.  But once I started to notice results I was hooked! In my research I learned about essential oils that were said to help breasts increase in size and firmness and help to promote hormone health.


These oils include: (where to buy)

• Geranium
• Clary Sage
• Ylang Ylang
• Peppermint
• Rosemary
• Lemongrass
• Frankincense
• Jasmine

You do not need to use all of them, you can combine what you have or what you wish to buy. In a glass bottle mix a few tablespoons of a carrier oil (coconut, olive, almond, apricot, etc.) and add about 10-15 drops of the oils of your choice.

In the morning when you wake up and in the evening before bed you can undress, massage some oil between your palms to warm up and begin your breast massage. For larger breasts you want to massage your breasts inward and around in a circle. You want to aim for about 100-300 full circles which can take about 15-20 minutes.

The breast massage helps to improve circulation and prevent stagnant tissue build-up from creating clogged ducts. The stimulation helps to drain glands and prevent toxins from accumulating. Self breast massage helps to treat and reduce cysts which are common especially in women ages 30-50. Practicing regular massage helps the body to create the hormones progesterone and oxytocin which both increase emotional well-being. I have been experiencing symptoms of Fibrocystic breast condition for a couple years now and this massage helped provide tremendous relief.

If you have any other suggestions about natural ways to increase breast size or if you try my suggestions I would love to have you share your stories!


Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

PAID ENDORSEMENT DISCLOSURE: This post contains paid affiliate links. In order for me to support my family and continue my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Are Antibiotics as Safe and Effective as You Think?

We live in a culture reliant on medical interventions as a way to be healthy, one of the most common being antibiotics. Many people are falsely under the impression that antibiotics are necessary when signs of illness occur. Symptoms such as fever, chills and fatigue usually result in a visit to the doctor to receive a prescription, which the doctor writes without hesitation. With prescriptions for antibiotics being handed out so freely their can't be much risk. Or is there? This article will discuss how recent research is showing that antibiotic drugs aren't as safe and effective as the majority of people are led to believe. 

How The Immune System Functions

 

The main function of the immune system is to protect the host from chemicals and microbes and preserve the integrity of the body. There are many factors that can weaken the immune system such as stress, chemicals and emotions causing pathogens the opportunity to flourish. As a result immune system mechanisms illicit symptoms associated with colds and flues, for example sneezing, body aches, fevers and runny nose. These symptoms are actually a good sign that the body is working appropriately to facilitate the natural healing response. The immune system adapts its response during infections to improve its recognition of the pathogen. This response is retained even long after the pathogen has been destroyed, storing this information in the immunological memory, which allows the system to attack stronger each time this pathogen is discovered in the body. Should the system detect these the pathogen in the system again these specific memory cells work to eliminate it.  

How Antibiotics Work

 

When symptoms of illness are present many people depend on antibiotic prescriptions to save the day. Without them, how on earth would the body know how to heal itself? Unfortunately, when antibiotics are taken the immune system is suppressed and the natural immune response symptoms disappear causing the patient to appear to be healed, when in reality only the symptoms have been eliminated leaving behind the harmful infection. The gross misuse of antibiotics has become apparent and bringing with it many dangerous and life threatening consequences. A mandate in 2003 required all doctors to culture microbes and perform susceptibility testing prior to prescribing antibiotics. A decade later almost all physicians still fail to follow this mandate meaning that the majority of antibiotic prescriptions are useless. How useless? Studies show that 50% of antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary with some studies estimates as high as 70-90% in children. 

Dangers Of Antibiotics

 

With antibiotics being given out so freely the general public believes that the drugs are safe and the medicine carries with it little risks. This couldn't be further from the truth. Along with suppressing the immune system antibiotics kill off the good bacteria within the body for up to 12 months or more. This leaves the patient in a germ-free state and making them susceptible to many other diseases and conditions. Antibiotics create the perfect bodily environment for many diseases and cancers to thrive. These wide range of diseases include acne, asthma and colitis while excessive use of antibiotics have been associated with colon, prostate and breast cancer.  Some research shows that the gut flora doesn't completely restore itself even after 3 years, proving that flora is permanently altered and can lead to lifelong impairment. The development of fungal candida infection occurs 4-52 hours after taking even just one antibiotic pill. The pills cause inflammation in the system promoting ongoing candida growth, which is associated with over 100 conditions and diseases. A recent study out of Harvard shows that repeated use of clinical antibiotics causes oxidative stress that can cause damage in DNA, proteins and lipids in cells. These antibiotic induced changes increase the risk for lung cancer, obesity, cardiovascular death and many other conditions. Many people are unaware that sudden death is ALWAYS a risk to taking antibiotics because very few doctors discuss the risks with their patients leaving them with the false misconception that the antibiotics are safe. This gross misuse of antibiotics is causing life-long diseases especially in children by weakening immune systems and making patients more susceptible to far worse conditions than a cold. Continuous use of antibiotics exposes EVERYONE to increased levels of infection from pathogens that are resistant to antibiotics as microbes have the ability to adapt and create antibiotic resistant strains of diseases. This poses a catastrophic threat to society and can result in vicious, untreatable diseases.

Natural Cold And Flu Alternatives To Antibiotics 

 

There are much better alternatives to fighting the cold and flu than taking antibiotics. Even over-the-counter medicines only mask the symptoms without providing any benefit to the body. Homemade bone broth, lots of rest and vitamins and supplements helps the body to fight the infection naturally. Living a preventative lifestyle of maintaining healthy diet, regular exercise regimen and adequate sleep builds a strong immune system and is important in staying healthy. Homeopathic medicines and combinations of food, herbs and even essential oil can do wonders for helping to heal and relieve discomforts without harming the body. Probiotics are also essential in helping the body to heal if you have taken antibiotics in the past. Probiotics help to restore the good bacteria back into the digestive track and can be taken by supplement form or by consuming fermented foods. Yogurt, Kefir, Kombucha and Sauerkraut are all examples of true fermented foods that can be safely made at home. Probiotics help to support digestive and urinary health, women's health and reducing allergies. Taking natural preventative measures helps to keep the immune system strong and healthy and is a much safer and more effective method than relying on dangerous antibiotics.

What are your experiences with antibiotics vs. natural alternatives to dealing with colds and flues? I would love to hear your stories!

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6231158

http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/reporter/index.html?ID=3511

http://www.ama-assn.org/special/827.pdf

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3685787




Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

PAID ENDORSEMENT DISCLOSURE: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Did You Know That You Are Magnesium Deficient?

 

What Is Magnesium and Why Is It Important?

According to Wikipedia Magnesium, chemical element Mg, is an alkaline earth metal and the 8th most abundant element in the Earth's crust. Magnesium is the 11th most abundant element by mass in the human body and is essential to all living cells. This vital mineral plays a role in the body's detoxification process and is crucial to prevent and reverse chemical and environmental damage as well as heavy metals and other toxins. Unfortunately, very few people are aware of the importance of magnesium to their health and wellness.

How Do I know If I'm Magnesium Deficient

Studies show that the majority of people, about 80%, are magnesium deficient and don't even know it. Additionally, most doctors do not even test magnesium levels and until recently magnesium deficiency was hardly talked about.

Magnesium deficiency is caused by consumption of alcohol, caffeine, processed food and sugar. Antibiotics, prescription drugs and excessive sweating from exercise are also linked to magnesium depletion. Guilty of one (or more!) of these habits? Then chances are you are lacking this essential nutrient. Many foods are grown in depleted soil, including organic (although typically higher still vs. conventional), due to modern farm processes which means that even healthy eaters are in need of magnesium.

Magnesium Is Essential For Proper Health And Well-Being

Magnesium is responsible for many bodily functions including:

• Regulating blood pressure
• Lowering cholesterol and triglycerides
• Decreasing insulin resistance
• Digestion and elimination
• Promoting more restful sleep
• Easing muscle cramps
• Enhancing circulation
• Promoting healthy body weight  

Magnesium has been shown to prevent and reduce migraines, treating asthma and emphysema and relieving chronic pain and fibromyalgia. Adequate magnesium levels help to prevent osteoporosis, as well as congestive heart failure and even cancer. For children experiencing ADD or ADHD magnesium intake has been associated with lessening or eliminating many symptoms.

Low magnesium levels can result in many different symptoms which can be different from each person. If you suffer from any of these symptoms chances are your magnesium levels are depleted:

• High levels of stress
• Anxiety or depression
• Mental disturbances
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Headaches
• Nausea 
• Weakness
• Poor memory
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thyroid problems
• Gut disorders
• Dental problems
• Allergies
• Heart flutters/palpitations
• Infertility
• Fatigue
• Muscle pain

If you suffer from several of the above symptoms then your levels are on the lower end of the spectrum and a magnesium supplement is highly recommended. There are a few different ways to get magnesium into the body starting out with small doses and then working up to larger amounts to ensure the mineral is being absorbed properly and not going to waste.

How To Boost Magnesium Levels

While magnesium levels cannot reach necessary levels by diet alone, there are foods that are good dietary sources such as sea vegetables, kelp, nettle flax seed, almond butter and dark leafy greens. You can also get capsule form of Nettle HERE and Kelp HERE.

Another way to get daily magnesium is in powder form HERE or liquid form HERE which provides an easy way to control the dose and work your way up. Lastly, the most effective way to increase magnesium levels is transdermally through the skin. This is the fastest way for the body to absorb the mineral. This can be done through taking an Epsom salt bath or by using Magnesium oil, which is very easy to make.

Homemade Magnesium Oil Recipe

• 1/2 cup of filtered or distilled water
• 1/2 cup of Magnesium Chloride Flakes (or Epsom salts) Where to buy
• Small spray bottle (glass preferred) 

Bring the water to a boil. Pour magnesium flakes (preferred over Epsom salts) in a glass mixing bowl and pour the boiling water over the flakes. Dissolve magnesium and let mixture completely cool before adding to the spray bottle. The magnesium oil solution will last about 6-months (although you will most likely use it up before then if you use daily!)

Spray the magnesium oil on the stomach, legs and arms daily. You may notice a tingling sensations the first few applications, but that is normal. Once your body gets used to it that will disappear. Leave the magnesium oil on the skin to absorb or at least 30 minutes before you shower to ensure maximum results. It can be used multiple times a day and is great for kids too.

Adding Epsom salts or magnesium flakes to baths or foot soaks is highly recommended. Experiment with different essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint or lemongrass and reap the benefits. Taking the time to do something good for our bodies has infinite rewards and should become a regular habit to nourish the mind, body and soul. 

It is recommended that you employ multiple ways of magnesium supplementation daily to reach the necessary levels, especially for those who are very deficient and show signs of illness. Common side effects of magnesium overdose is usually upset stomach and diarrhea so if you begin to notice these symptoms it's time to lower your intake. Most people notice changes pretty soon after supplementing magnesium into their diet and are thankful they learned about the importance of the mineral for their health.

Have you used Magnesium to improve your health? Please share your experiences. I would love to hear it!


Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

PAID ENDORSEMENT DISCLOSURE: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Medicine Cabinet Must Have Part II - The Healing Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

This post is a second in a series that will discuss what I refer to as Natural Medicine Cabinet must haves! Part 1, in case you missed it, was all about Bentonite Clay. This next product was the first real natural product that I got hooked on - Tea Tree Oil! We ALWAYS have this product in our house. My friends and family have heard me refer to it numerous times. In fact, my husband can attest that it is referenced, and used daily in our house.  This article will be all about Tea Tree oil and why this product needs to be included in your home medicine kit.

What is Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree oil, or Melaleuca, is a powerful essential oil that has been used to treat a number of medical conditions. Tea Tree oil is a very powerful natural agent because of it's anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. It is a renewable resource that is non-corrosive, non-staining, easy to use and very economical. It has been used for hundreds of years first by the aborigines in the Australian outback who were masters of using nature's gifts as medicine. Many studies of the healing properties of Tea Tree oil have been conducted in the past decade and many have dubbed the oil a "first aid kit in a bottle". Tea Tree Oil can be found at most health food stores or you can buy online HERE.

It has been used to treat a number of infections including those that have been shown resistant to antibiotics. It is useful to user for bacterial and fungal skin infections such as warts, rashes, dandruff, wounds, acne, sun burn and athletes food just to name a few. Tea Tree oil has also been used to treat both common respiratory problems such as coughs, sore throat and runny nose to more severe problems such as bronchitis and asthma. It can be used in babies, adults and even animals.

Because of how powerful Tea Tree oil is please take the following precautions:

• Avoid contact with eyes
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not take internally without consulting a health care practitioner (excluding toothpaste, mouthwash- without swallowing!) 
• Use patch test before using oil on sensitive skin
• Dilute Tea Tree oil with cold-pressed oil (olive, coconut, almond, avocado, apricot) when using around sensitive areas or on baby's skin. 
• Pregnant women should take extra precaution. 

 

Tea Tree Oil Uses

 

• Styles, Blocked Sinus Passages, Emphysema, Head Cold, Coughs/Congestion- Add a few drops of pure Tea Tree Oil  to a humidifier or a pot of steaming water and inhale vapors. You can also add a few drops to some carrier oil and rub on chest and back to breathe throughout the evening. 

• Sore Throat, Thrush, Canker Sores, Gingivitis, Bad Breathe, Plaque, Toothache- Add a couple drops of Tea Tree to a glass of water and swish around twice daily. It's a great natural replacement for mouthwash and much more beneficial than commercial brands.

• Acne, Boils, Minor Burns, Eczema, Insect bites, Poison Oak/Ivy, Psoriasis, Rashes, Sunburn, Warts- Apply pure Tea Tree oil to the area twice daily. Can mix with cold pressed oil and honey to create a salve. 

• Scrapes, Cuts, Wounds, Abscesses- Apply a few drops of Tea Tree oil to a cotton ball and clean the area. It's anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties will keep the area clean and able to heal more effectively.

• Athletes Foot, Corns/Callouses, Nail Infection, Foot Odor, Ringworm, Shingles, Plantar Warts- Apply a mixture of pure Tea Tree oil (or mix with carrier oil) to affected area twice a day.  Add 5-10 drops to a foot bath and soak for 10 minutes.

• Dandruff, Head lice, Itchy Scalp, Oily Hair, Thinning Hair- Add 5-10 drops of pure Tea Tree oil to shampoo and conditioner and use daily. Just try not to get any in your eyes!

• Earaches- Mix 5 drops of Tea Tree oil with coconut or olive oil. Apply a small amount into ear (a couple drops for babies). Adults can pack ear loosely with a small cotton ball. Reapply Tea Tree as necessary.

• Cradle Cap for Infants- Mix 5-10 drops of Tea Tree with some carrier oil and rub on affected area. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and then wash hair. ***MAKE SURE NOT TO GET INTO BABIES EYES WHEN RINSING!

• Diaper Rash & Skin Problems- Mix Tea Tree with a cold-pressed oil and rub on problem area. Do not use pure Tea Tree oil directly on the skin as babies are much more sensitive than adults.

• Disinfectant, Deodorizer-  You can add a few drops of Tea Tree oil to a spray bottle of water or vinegar. It is multi-purpose and can be used on any surface.

• Animal Care- Can be used to treat mange, lice, ticks, ringworm and fleas by bathing animals and mixing 1 tablespoon of Tea Tree oil per cup of water. For abscesses or puncture wounds you can apply a few drops of the pure oil directly on the affected area.

Tea Tree oil is one of the most effective natural medicinal available and even works on conditions that are extremely resistant even to strong antibiotics. With it's multi-purpose properties it is very cost effective and useful to have in the house at all times.

Do you use Tea Tree Oil regularly? If so, please share your experiences and how it has helped you!



Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

PAID ENDORSEMENT DISCLOSURE: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Think You Eat Healthy? Think Again!

As I think back to when I was in my early 20's I thought I was SOOOO healthy! I would make sure to stock up on Lean Cuisines when they were on sale at the various grocery stores, I tried to limit my butter and salt intake and would only consume low or non-fat milk. My grandmother used to tell me not to eat the chicken skin (my favorite part) because it would give me high cholesterol. With obesity, diabetes and heart disease on the rise how is it possible that so many people are unhealthy despite all of this nutritional health knowledge? Could it be that many dietary recommendations are untrue and responsible for misleading the general public? Read further if you would like to know the truth about eating healthy and which foods should actually be avoided.

Before I begin my post, please note that I am not a doctor and this post should not be construed as medical advice. With that being said, I have learned some things over the past few years that I wanted to share and hope that it will be beneficial to my readers.

Salt is good for you!

 

For years salt has been demonized by so-called experts recommending that people limit their salt intake to increase health, claiming it can lead to high blood pressure. Recent studies actually show that a low salt diet is associated with many overall negative impacts on our health such as insulin resistance and a higher risk of stroke and heart attack. Adequate salt intake supports hydration, especially during exercise. A few teaspoons of good salt (This is my favorite!) replenishes the necessary minerals and electrolytes within the body. It has also shown to help cope with stress by speeding up cortisol clearance from the blood. Now again, this doesn't mean it's healthy to consume those super salty McDonald's French Fries (GROSS!) You need to ditch the conventional iodized table salt and pickup some good sea salt or pink Himalayan salt. Health benefits of Himalayan sea salt include promoting bone strength, healthy PH in cells (particularly brain cells), regulating sleep and supporting your libido just to name a few. Over the years this new found knowledge has led me to add a little dash of salt (pink salt) to almost everything! It's the perfect way to include nutrients while also flavoring foods- including sweet foods. A pinch of salt helps to enhance the flavor whether sweet or savory.

So is Butter!

 

Ugh! Remember Margarine? Hopefully it is not still a regular staple in your diet. It's just plain gross. It is made out of hydrogenated oils which are high in trans fat and has horrible effects on the body. It increases bad cholesterol, while decreasing good cholesterol and has been linked to diabetes and heart disease.  Butter on the other hand; and I mean good, organic, grass-fed butter, is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It contains Vitamins A, D, E and K while also being high in iron, zinc, selenium and many more. Grass-fed can contain high levels of CLA, a compound that can offer protection against cancer and helps to store muscle in the body rather than fat. Butter, also contains a hormone like substance that can prevent stiffness in the joints. Consuming good butter into your diet can help to boost fertility, protect against tooth decay and protect against GI infections just to name a few. Organic Grass fed butter is very easy to make yourself with my homemade butter method. 

Choose Full Fat! Always!

 

Low fat or nonfat is the healthier alternative, right? WRONG! For years dietary advice recommended low fat or nonfat but experts are now arguing that full fat dairy products are much healthier. Many researchers agree that organic, raw dairy is superior, but even in pasteurized dairy full fat offers the most benefits. Consuming full fat dairy may help to reduce your risk for cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Full fat dairy products also help to regulate healthy body weight with women consuming one cup a day gaining 30% less weight than those who consumed only low, or nonfat dairy. Raw milk is high in vitamins and enzymes that are virtually destroyed during pasteurization; which makes milk harder to digest. Many people who are lactose intolerant may notice their symptoms going away when consuming raw milk products.

Healthy Foods in Disguise     

 

Lean Cuisine, Healthy Choice, Kashi-Many commercial brands use healthy marketing while their ingredients are anything but. High in sodium, MSG, hydrogenated oils and nitrates, these meals are highly processed. Not to mention the fact that they are usually packaged in BPA containers and cooked up in the microwave (which zaps any nutrients-if there are any!) Simple homemade lunches are a much healthier alternative. Diet, low fat, non-fat, low sugar, sugar free, fat free- when you see those labels, think to substitute with the phrase "Chemical Shit Storm!" Because that is exactly what it is! Over processed and nutrient void foods masquerading as a healthy lunch or dinner option.
When choosing foods, read the ingredients. The less ingredients, the less processed the food is. Avoid high fructose, fructose, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), aspartame, natural flavorings and hard to pronounce ingredients.

So there you have it! No more avoiding all the rich flavors of these healthy foods in the name of health. Forget dieting, counting points and restricting foods that are actually good for you! You can relish in the fact that these whole foods are the real deal and offer tons of health benefits. For me this true understanding of health foods was liberating. I got the satisfaction of eating all those things I loved with the peace of mind that they were actually nutritious and providing myself and my family with the vitamins and minerals our bodies need.

How do you eat? Is this information eye opening for you? I would love for you to share your thoughts and experiences!


Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

PAID ENDORSEMENT DISCLOSURE: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Homemade Pumpkin Apple Butter

Fall Fall Fall! I love Fall! Crunchy leaves, all things pumpkin flavor and cool crisp weather (except in sunny San Diego where we are having a Santa Ana heatwave this weekend!)

With pumpkin on the brain (and an abundance of apples) I set out to try a new Fall recipe. Okay, so it's not exactly a NEW recipe, but I've never made it before so that counts, right?!

This Pumpkin Apple Butter was delicious and so easy to make in a crock pot! We love it in our homemade yogurt, on toast, waffles or pancakes. I am even guilty of eating it right out of the jar- it's that good!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of pumpkin puree (canned or fresh) 
• 2 apples (chopped) 
• Ground Cinnamon
• Ground Nutmeg
• Dash of salt
• 1 tbs Maple Syrup
• 1 cup filtered water

 Add all ingredients to crockpot and turn on low heat for 6 hours. You might need to add some more liquid as the apples break down. Stir occasionally and when its a consistency you like it's ready! I made mine a little chunky, and of course you can also remove the apple peels if you want a smoother texture. I chose to keep the nutrients of the peel in mine and think it is just perfect! The kids and I think it is too die for! The hubby isn't much into pumpkin but even he admitted that it was "pretty good."

Have you tried making your own version of a pumpkin or apple (or both) butter? I would love to hear all about it!



Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

PAID ENDORSEMENT DISCLOSURE: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

Medicine Cabinet Must Have Part 1: Healing Properties of Bentonite Clay

There are a few natural medicine cabinet staples that are a must have in our house.  This series will discuss what multi-purpose health essentials I keep on hand at all times and why. These natural methods are tried and true and with very little, if any, side effects.

Bentonite clay is an ancient healing clay used by cultures throughout history for their ability to rid the body of toxins. It has been used for years for both internal and external detoxification and for its anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-yeast and general disinfectant properties. Bentonite clay has a high concentration of minerals such as calcium, silica, magnesium, potassium, sodium and iron. When the clay comes into contact with a toxin, chemical or heavy metal it will absorb the poison and release its minerals for the body to utilize. A study from ASU has shown that bentonite is highly effective at killing E.Coli, Salmonella and even MRSA.

Bentonite clay helps to get oxygen to cells by removing excess hydrogen and allowing it to be replaced by oxygen. It is also a common in detox and cleansing products and when taken correctly it has an alkalizing effect on the body and helps to balance gut bacteria. The clay itself has a strong negative charge which bonds to the positive charge of many toxins. When it is mixed with water it swells open like a highly porous sponge drawing out toxins though electrical attraction.

Bentonite has been used for hundreds of years for detoxification, recovery from vomiting and diarrhea, digestive disturbances, skin issues, allergies and even oral health. Because of its universal health properties bentonite healing clay should be a staple in every medicine cabinet. You can purchase the clay at most health food stores or you can purchase HERE on Amazon.

How to use Bentonite Clay:

*Do not allow bentonite to come into contact with anything metal, as it will reduce its effectiveness. If taking internally do not take within one hour of food or two hours of medication or supplements. Always consult with a doctor before using if you have a medical condition.

• Internal Cleansing- Mix a tablespoon of clay and ½ tablespoon of psyllium husks with 8 ounces of water. Take on an empty stomach preferably early morning or late evening. Make sure to drink lots of water during the day to help facilitate the clay to remove toxins from the intestines.

• Detox Bath- Adding ¼ cup bentonite clay to your bath creates a relaxing, detoxifying mud bath that is great to remove toxins and condition the skin.

• Facial Mask- Make a paste with water or apple cider vinegar. I prefer ACV. Mix it together to make a paste and apply to your face similar to a salon spa. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes and wash off. Your face will be bright red and might be pulsating a little. That is a good thing. All of your pores are opened and breathing. This can be done weekly. It is a great way to revitalize your skin and help make a healthy, youthful complexion.

• Skin Disorders/Problems- Make a paste similar to the description above, using either water or Apple Cider Vinegar. Apply it to any skin irritations such as blemishes, burns, cuts, or bites. It is extremely helpful for skin disorders such as chicken pox, eczema, psoriasis, etc. Let it dry for 20-30 minutes and then wash off. For major issues you can apply a thick layer to the affected area, cover with a wet cloth or gauze and replace every couple of hours.

• Pet Health- If your pet is sick, vomiting or showing other signs of illness you can mix a little clay with their water and or give it orally with a dropper.

• Muscle and Joint pain- Make a paste using water or Apple Cider Vinegar and apply a layer to affected area. Allow clay to dry 20-30 minutes and then wash off. It can be very beneficial to relieve arthritis, carpal tunnel, bruises and sprains.

• Oral Health- Bentonite is great for remineralizing teeth and can be used as a toothpaste or mouth wash. For toothpaste mix with baking soda, coconut oil, hydrogen peroxide and peppermint oil. As a mouthwash mix ½ a teaspoon of clay with ¼ cup of water. Swish in mouth for 1-2 minutes. Rinse with water and then repeat until solution is finished.

When taken internally bentonite removes toxins from the digestive system, cleanses the colon, stimulates liver function, reduces food allergies and improves the immune system. Externally it removes toxins by drawing them through the skin. Because of its versatility and healing properties bentonite is a MUST HAVE for household natural medicine kits.

Do you use Bentonite? If so we would love for you to share any uses not mentioned in this post and why you love it!


Disclaimer:  Please note: I am not a medical professional. Please use your careful discernment and double check with your naturopath or doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements

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