Best Treatment for Buzzing, Clicking and Hissing sounds in your ears

If you have been struggling for months or years with buzzing, clicking and hissing sounds in your ears… Trying hearing aids and OTC pills with no real results… While the sounds are getting progressively louder…

You should know that all those “remedies” are not actually addressing the real cause. According to the latest research, tinnitus goes much deeper than your ears: inside your brain. It’s all linked to a “wire” that carries electrical signals and sounds from your ear cells to your brain networks.

Ear ringing and whooshing happen when this wire gets damaged and messes up sounds. The solution is to feed, regenerate and rebuild it so it will be in perfect harmony with your brain and carry sounds perfectly.

That’s why we created

The 100% Natural Solution That Addresses Ear Ringing

This formula is unlike anything you’ve ever tried or experienced in your life before. You will once again be able to enjoy a quiet and peaceful time everyday, being able to hear your own thoughts again and to finally unwind.

What is Quietum Plus?

Quietum Plus is the plant and nutrient based nutritional supplement designed for people struggling with hearing or have such hearing problems and want to enhance their hearing naturally. It is the dietary supplement that designed for people who want to overcome the risk of hearing loss and alleviate the related symptoms.

Inside every capsule of “Quietum Plus” you’ll find:

A bespoke proprietary formula that includes 18 special high-quality plant extracts
that are specially created to support a healthy hearing.

Mucuna Pruriens & Maca Root

  • Help with inflammation
  • Soothe the nervous system
  • Help repair neuron damage

Epimedium & Tribulus Terrestris

  • Help regulate neuroinflammation
  • Protect against free radicals
  • Strong antidepressant effects

Dong Quai

  • Superior ear tonic
  • Supports brain cell health
  • Helps sharpen the hearing

Muira Puama & Ginger

  • Strong antioxidants
  • Protect against free radicals
  • Promote nerve regeneration

Catuaba Powder & Damiana

  • Balance the blood flow
  • Strong neuroprotective qualities
  • Protect the brain against aging

Ashwagandha & Piperine

  • Strong adaptogens
  • Increase mental alertness
  • Prevent cell degeneration

Sarsaparilla Root & Asparagus

  • Help clean neurotoxins
  • Protect nerve tissue
  • Boost cognitive function

Vit. A, Vit. B & Zinc

  • Help improve hearing
  • Nourish brain connections
  • Support the immune system

L-Tyrosine & L-Arginine

  • Balances blood pressure
  • Strong mood booster
  • Helps with depression

 

Natural Formula

 

Easy To Use

 

Non-GMO

 

No Stimulants

 

Non-Habit Forming

 

Gluten Free

Order 6 Bottles or 3 Bottles
and Get 2 FREE Bonuses!

BONUS #1 – 1-Minute Natural Tips To Hear
Like a Ninja

Retail Price – $97
Today: FREE

Kickstart your Quietum Plus journey by using quick and efficient hacks that can do wonders in no time:

  • Find out the 3 gentle yoga poses that boost your hearing and stop hearing loss in its track;
  • The incredibly potent veggie that can restore cochlear damage and perfect hearing even after a blast exposure;
  • The simple tip that makes sure your earbuds don’t cause hearing loss;
  • Discover how heating up a seasoning can clear any ear infection overnight.

And more useful tips!

BONUS #2 – How to Get the Best Sleep
of Your Life in Just 7 Days

Retail Price – $79
Today: FREE

In this limited edition book, you’ll find out all about:

  • How easy it is to trick your mind into falling asleep in literal minutes with 3 odd but extremely efficient doctor- approved techniques;
  • The simple adjustment to the position of your bed that will have you sleep like a baby all through the night;
  • The 4 mouth and throat quick exercises that drastically reduce snoring;
  • The 5 “heavy-sleep” pressure points that even long term insomniacs swear by.

And more!

Every Order Comes With FREE Shipping Too!

*97% Of Customers Order 6 Bottles (Our Recommended Option)

This product cannot be seen on any website, shop, online store, pharmacy, supermarket etc. You can ONLY get QUIETUM PLUS to buy on their original site. Click the button below to buy from their original website.

(LIMITED SUPPLIES) BUY NOW!

Real Quietum Plus Users.
Real Life-Changing Results.

Maddison Allen enjoys her quiet life…

 

Verified Purchase

“Everyone should have this product! It feels like a great weight has been lifted off my shoulders!”

Maddison Allen– New York, USA

Joshua Lawson has shared the product with all his friends…

 

Verified Purchase

“For 5 years it felt like I had a tea kettle inside my brain. Now it’s all silence. How amazing is this?”

Joshua Lawson – Wyoming, USA

Jake Austin is happy with his new life…

 

Verified Purchase

“I had a buzzing in my right ear and an annoying pulsing sensation in my left ear. But not anymore. It feels good to have my life back.”

Jake Austin – Chicago, USA

Best Tasty Vegan Recipes

Want To Cook Ridiculously Tasty Vegan Recipes From Scratch But Have No Idea Where To Start?” 

What is veganism?

Veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, such as meat, fish and poultry. Vegans also abstain from eating dairy, eggs and honey as well as not wearing fur, leather, wool down or using cosmetics or chemical products tested on animals.


The Plant-Based Recipe Cookbook Includes over 100 mouth-watering recipes for Everyone to Enjoy!

There’s JUST ONE REASON you might be struggling as a Vegan and it has everything to do with your ability to make delicious high protein food, FAST.

With this stunningly simple cookbook I’ll show you how to cook savory, mouth-watering meals in minutes for some of the busiest Vegan eaters in the world.

Fellow Plant-Based Friends

Let’s be serious here…

You’re here because you already know a vegan diet is healthier than any other diet that exists. Research shows there’s been a 600% increase in the number of people who have made the switch to a vegan diet.

With the growing number of plant-based enthusiasts constantly on the rise, there has never been a better time to eliminate meat and dairy from your diet.

If you’ve spent any time at all on social media, you’d probably think a good portion of the world was vegan. 

And why not? With over 90 million #vegan posts on Instagram alone, it’s easy to say why Plant-based foods are one of the hottest trends in the food industry right now.

vegan trending
vegan trends

It’s No Surprise Why Millions, Including Famous Celebrities, Have Made The Switch To A Vegan Diet.

vegan celebrities

Discover The Amazing Benefits Of A Plant-Based Diet

Weight Loss

Reduce risk of diabetes and heart disease

Helps combat obesity
 in all age groups

Increased fiber intake

Plant Based Eating

HOW HEALTHY IS A VEGAN DIET?

There’s no debate when you look at the latest evidence.

Eating a whole-food, plant-based vegan diet, without the consumption of meat or dairy is beneficial for our health and wellbeing.

Vegan foods such as vegetables, fruit, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds are low in saturated fat.  Even high-fat plant foods (such as avocados, nuts, and seeds), contain no cholesterol whatsoever, so a vegan diet is cholesterol-free. 

A vegan diet is also packed with antioxidants and fibers which can enhance your health, your body, and muscle recovery.

Eating a whole-food, plant-based diet without meat, dairy or eggs can help lower your cholesterol and improve your heart health.

BY CHOOSING A VEGAN DIET THE FOLLOWING HEALTH BENEFITS CAN BE YOURS….

As I’m sure you’ve heard, countless individuals around the world have turned to a vegan lifestyle in order to regain their health, energy, vitality, and power. Here are just a few of the benefits that people actually report.

A Healthier Heart

Harvard researchers tracked the health habits of about 110,000 people for 14 years and found that the higher folks’ intakes of fruits and vegetables, the lower their chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Specifically, people who averaged eight-plus servings of fruits and veggies a day were 30 percent less likely to have a heart attack or stroke, compared to those who had less than 1.5 daily servings.

weight loss
Weight Loss Results
There’s plenty of research suggesting vegans tend to consume fewer calories, and thus weigh less and have lower body mass indexes than non-vegetarians.Today, there are tons of plant-based recipes that will leave you feeling fuller on few calories so you don’t have to worry about gaining weight. As long as you stay clear of vegan processed food you’ll be fine.
Clearer, Smoother Skin

Cutting back on animal products also means skipping much of their saturated fats, which are notorious for clogging pores. Plus, many of the vitamins, pigments, and phytochemicals in fruits and veggies contribute to healthy skin. The lycopene in tomatoes, for example, helps protect your skin from sun damage, and vitamin C in sweet potatoes smooths wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen.

vegan fitness

It’s been proven again and again you don’t need animal products to thrive.

We’re no longer living in the dark ages.. Our understanding has evolved and in the process we have come to learn that eating animals is no longer the necessity we once believed it to be.

People from all over the world are setting world records and becoming world champions on a vegan diet. 

Dispel all vegan protein myths that you hear because you can still build muscle and get strong by eating delicious plant-based recipes found on this page. 


When you eliminate meat and dairy from your diet, your health will improve dramatically and you will look and feel better than you ever did before…

Maximum Nutrition, Minimum Interference!

THE VEGAN DIET RECIPES YOUR ABOUT TO DISCOVER WORK BY TWO FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

  • Put maximum nutrition INTO your body… and…
  • Reduce or eliminate toxins and “interference”.

The first one seems pretty obvious…People who eat a vegan diet eat a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, chickpeas, nuts, and seeds. These foods are loaded with essential nutrition.


The second principle is just as fundamental, but less apparent. It means that when we avoid toxins hidden packaged/processed food…and the many hidden toxins in meat alternatives, our bodies begin to clean out and detoxify.

This allows our cells to expend less energy in actually fighting off foreign substances and more on rebuilding, growth, and rejuvenation.

And as a result we notice a myriad of health benefits when we adopt a vegan diet.

Now…Imagine seeing and feeling the positive changes in your body and health than any other diet you have tried before.

Because you will be getting all the essential vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fats and the accompanying recipes offer healthy and tasty ways to enjoy them.


There’s only one little problem…

Why Most People Fail To Stick To A Vegan Diet?

plant based diet

Now giving the amazing results that eating a vegan diet, you’d think it was easy to stick to it?

Truth is, a plant-based lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to force down the same boring, bland foods every single day.

And on top of that, preparing tasty, nutritious vegan meals doesn’t have to be difficult at all. The Plant-based cookbook provides tasty, easy to prepare recipes that are healthy.

And now, for the first time…

We’ve Teamed Up With The Most Influential Community Of Plant-Based Enthusiasts…

 …To Bring You Over 100 Flavourful High Protein Vegan Recipes

Sure, cookbooks from a top chef are nice. But what if you had one from a respected chef (yours truly!) AND hundreds of living, active, healthy plant-based experts?

Well, ask and you shall receive. The Plant-based cookbook is full of recipes that can be prepared and cooked in under 30 minutes or less.

With The Plant-Based Recipe Cookbook you’ll get that much and more. The recipes come in a beautiful full-color cookbook that you can view right from your computer, tablet, or phone from any location.

It is the ultimate guide for making the Vegan Diet amazingly good-tasting, fun and full of the variety that not only makes you healthier but also satisfies your taste buds and cravings.

It’s everything you could ever want in a guide for how to eat properly the Vegan way without compromising taste or convenience.

Why people fail to stick to a Plant Based Diet

The cookbook contains real-food that you can easily find at your local supermarket, including a variety of tofu, tempeh soy products, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

With the right ingredients, you will be able to prepare tasty recipes with ease.

So even if you are a meat-eater and want to try a vegan for 30 days, then there are plenty of meat-free recipes that you will love!

Flavourful Vegan Recipes Covering Everything From Burrito Bowls To Chocolate Mousse

PEANUT BUTTER QUINOA
Peanut Butter Quinoa
CURRY TOFU
Tofu Curry
PROTEIN FUDGE BARS
fudge bars
CHICKPEA FLOUR OMELET 
Chickpea Flour Omelet
ROASTED CHICKPEA WRAP
Roasted Chickpea Wrap
SWEET POTATO CURRY RICE
Sweet Potato Curry

You’ll Also Get Some Bonus Green Smoothie Recipes From Our Special Recipe Categories

Green Smoothie Diet

Yes, it’s hard to believe these are actually on any “diet” – but again, Plant-based is not a diet at all.

And if eating foods like daily wasn’t enough, you’ll be getting slimmer… more energized…have better muscle definition…sick less often…your mood will be better…your skin brighter…and so much more!


Still wondering if this is for you?

The Plant-Based Recipe Cookbook Is For ANYONE Serious About THRIVING On A Vegan Diet – For Life!

The recipes that you will find in this book are universally loved so it doesn’t matter if your an elite athlete or a stay-at-home mom, there are recipes for everyone to enjoy.

Remember: When you consume foods derived from plants and eliminate animal products, you will begin to trigger a wave of rejuvenation throughout your body one that’s visible on your midsection, your muscle tone, skin, hair, face and much more.

This is just one reason why so many people from all walks of life are turning to the Plant-based diet because it cuts out unhealthy items like sugars and refined grains. 

The great thing about eating plant-based foods is you can eat a lot without worrying about calories or gaining weight, this is true especially when you focus on whole foods. This isn’t about eating in moderation, no, it’s about living abundantly off the good stuff! 

This is what makes a Plant-based diet work is being able to make a variety of meals that taste good to you… so that you never get bored and always feel great about what you’re eating.

The World Is Trending Towards A Vegan Diet

For proof, everyone from celebrities to athletes to entire companies like Google and countries as big as China are all supports of eating more plant-based foods….there is nothing else like this, quite simply, because there’s no other community quite like vegan!

The plant-based movement is getting bigger and so people from all over the world are starting to make conscious, healthier food choices than ever before.

After you get your copy of The Plant-based Cookbook – TODAY – you can begin eating healthy meals that do not result in you eating bland, boring or tasteless foods…

The recipes in The Plant-based Cookbook are healthy and rich in protein and do not contain any animal ingredients. Rest assured, you will get all the essential nutrients that your body needs to function properly.

You will be preparing and cooking with fresh ingredients that shouldn’t take you no more than 20-30 minutes to cook these tasty meals. 

plant based ingredients

All the ingredients with simple foods instructions are laid out for you so you know how to make amazingly good meals without taking forever or breaking the bank.

You’ll even learn how to make delicious “vegan desserts” that aren’t overloaded with sugar, cream or flour…

Quick And Easy Recipes That Ensure You Never Have To Eat A Boring Meal – Ever, Again!

The Plant-based Cookbook contains plenty of breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and dessert recipes (nearly 100 when you include the bonuses!)

There are plenty of vegan options within the following categories that will excite your taste-buds, that are worthy of a dinner party.

You will also get a variety of “special categories” that will help you indulge in soups…sandwiches and tofu omelets and so much more all 100% by following plant-based principles!

I’ve gone to great lengths to include popular vegan recipes to make this diet delicious, with plenty of variety each day.

No prior cooking experience required! You will be able to whip up a meal even if you’re a total novice or a lazy cook! The recipes are simple to make so you’ll be a pro in no time!

Here’s Just A Sample Of What You Get…

Simple Vegan Recipes

SIMPLE, EASY, AMAZING-TASTY VEGAN RECIPES

With a wide variety of done-for-you healthy vegan recipes that will wow non-vegans! Your friends or family will never turn down these meals after taking one bite!

Vegan Meal Prep

CLEAN, MEAL PREP INSTRUCTION ANYONE CALL FOLLOW

There’s no guesswork, and each recipe offers simple and clear instructions, so you can prepare your meals easily. 

Vegan Grocery

COMPLETE GROCERY SHOPPING LIST AND FOOD TABLE

Includes a Complete Grocery shopping table that provides you with tons of food items that you can buy and add to your grocery list.

To Further Speed Your Success And Results With The Plant-Based Recipe Cookbook, We’re Also Giving You Bonus Gifts Worth $165 Absolutely Free!

As a special one-time offer for anyone who buys on this page now, we’re also going to throw in free of charge five powerful Plant-Based manuals that take your results to the next level.

These manuals help combat the two biggest reasons why people don’t get the start they need to stay vegan…

  • They don’t have the initial momentum needed to keep them on the plan until the amazing results become apparent…and…..
  • Social gatherings and eating at restaurants either become a downer or they “cheat” which leads to guilt and frustration and ultimately to giving up…

Well, Not anymore!

Let’s see what you’ll find inside the cookbook bundle:

PLANT-BASED RECIPE COOKBOOK 2.0 – NOW INCLUDES OVER 100 MOUTH-WATERING NEW VEGAN RECIPES

If you were like me and you hated spending time in the kitchen, and just want to cook a quick vegan meal that tastes great, then this cookbook has more than 100 vegan recipes from, cereals, omelets, smoothies, salads, soups, main dishes and snacks!

  • The many Perks and Benefits that the Plant-Based Diet can give you and why you should follow it
  • 100+ Tasty and easy recipes that you can cook in less than 30 minutes. You don’t even have to think about what to cook, just read this book and your mouth will water
  • Delicious Vegan Wholesome Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and also Dessert and Snacks
  • Complete Grocery shopping table that provides you with tons of food items that you can buy and add to your grocery list
  • And…so on!

THE VEGAN DIET 30 DAY JUMPSTART GUIDE

Don’t want to wait? Take the 30 day jumpstart challenge and feel the difference a plant-based diet can make in your life.  

This jump start guide will get you started on a Vegan Diet journey, and make sure you can actually make a permanent, positive change in your health.

This guide will help you to improve your overall health, shed a few pounds and in the end reach your goals. When you pick the right foods and approach your health properly, your quality of life – from your energy levels, happiness, sex drive, and more, will improve.

So if you want to dive right in and get going as fast as possible, make sure to read this bonus.

green smoothie lifestyle

GREEN SMOOTHIE LIFESTYLE – DRINK YOUR WAY TO A SLIM, ENERGETIC AND YOUTHFUL LIFE.

Looking for a simple way to adopt a healthier lifestyle and gain more energy? 

If you’re interested in trying out  a raw foods diet if you are trying  to increase your healthy eating habits,  give green smoothies a try.

By filling up on a healthy green  smoothie rather than processed and
fattening foods, you will soon be able  to fit into those old jeans you never
dreamed you would be able to button again.

vegan shoppingl ist

YOUR VEGAN GROCERY LIST – SO YOU KNOW EXACTLY WHAT TO GET AT THE STORE

Reach your optimal health, weight and energy by eating the foods you enjoy. I have created a printable list of plant-based foods that you can download and use to help you vary your food options when making a trip to the grocery store. The grocery list provides tons of food items that you can add to your grocery list. 

THAT’S NOT ALL! 

If you order today, you’ll also receive 4 Free Meal Plans….

Get 4 sample 2000 – 3500 calorie menus for fat loss, muscle gain and weight maintenance weight, while getting the nutrients you need to thrive!

HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU GET….

plant based cookbook bundle

Overall we could easily sell these items separately for $20 each, or charge over $150 for the entire package. But you won’t have to pay $150 or $100. Not Even $50.

LIMITED TIME OFFER

$150 $19.95

Just click “Add to Cart” now and start preparing delicious plant-based meals and make your days full of energy!

add to cart

Please note the package contains digital downloads and no physical products will be shipped to you.

What Our Customers Have To Say!

diane lynch

Diane Lynch

I have always based most of my meals off of plant-based recipes on Instagram, so it’s great to finally have a book with all the recipes in one place…AMAZING! The best cookbook you can buy, delicious, healthy and fresh meals that are super easy to prepare. If you are looking for one recipe book for vegans or non-vegans – this is it!!!

Like •  Reply • 10h

Hannah Jones

This is a wonderful book for information and inspiration for anyone who wants to eat a plant-based diet. I have been eating a plant-based diet for years but still struggled, so this book has really helped me understand and inform me better and I feel great!!!!
I love these simple, delicious recipes.
Highly recommended

9

Like •  Reply • 5h

david stewart

David Stewart

The recipes in this book are really healthy, no nonsense recipes. I have been a vegetarian for 10+ years and had got stuck in cooking the same foods all the time. This has given me loads of ideas for new meals and twists to add to things I already do. I like how there are pictures that comes with each recipe, unlike other recipe books I’ve purchased. The recipes are not difficult, quite simple and something for everyone.

7

Like •  Reply • 18h

Become “Plant Powered” In the Kitchen…In the next 60 Days Or Your Money Back!

Now, I won’t insult your intelligence by suggesting that you’ll love every recipe in the book, or that it will make you look like a supermodel or bodybuilder overnight.

But what we will say is that in all the years I’ve built and worked as a chef and with this community… together,, we’ve helped thousands prepare food and thrive with this diet and way of life and we believe you will be no different.

So our guarantee to you is this: The Plant-based Cookbook must make preparing meals more easy… more delicious… give you more variety on the diet… and help you experience the many health benefits of a Plant-based diet (from weight loss to enhanced mood) much more quickly… or your money back.

Vegan Meal Plan Collage

This isn’t one of those “no questions asked” generic guarantees most companies offer you and hope you forget about because we stand by the results this program produces.

If you don’t experience these results in the first 60 days, simply email us and we’ll immediately refund every penny you paid no questions asked.

You Already know a Vegan Diet is for you

So are you willing to spend an Hour and a Few Bucks So you Can Thrive On It?

When you download your package you will get….

  • The Plant-based Cookbook With Over 100 Easy To Prepare Recipes
  • The 30 Day Plant Based Jump Start Guide
  • The Green Smoothie Lifestyle Guide
  • Plant-based Meal Plans to follow to heal increase your health, fuel your workouts in no time and without too much effort.

ALL OF THIS WORTH A GRAND TOTAL OF AT LEAST $150, YET YOU PAY JUST $19.95

That’s a whopping, $135 off! What are you waiting for?

Now that you know how easy and delicious high protein foods can be…

And now that you’ve seen what a difference it can make it your health…

And especially since you know how important it is to get healthy and fill your body with nutrition as more and more corporations strive to mess with our food from preservatives to GMO and worse…

Plant Based Diet

When you download your package you will…

  •  Choose to spend just a few minutes each day learning to prepare these amazingly satisfying high protein recipes that you’ll master and use for life to get healthier, more energized, slimmer and, stronger… or…
  • You could try to just learn everything on your own a serious mistake, in my opinion: Especially since your purchase of the Plant-based Cookbook is fully guaranteed!

Why not let me show you every amazing Plant-based recipe I know how to make?

I hope you’ll choose to join get started with this priceless resource that the Plant-based team has created…

Use it daily to get healthy and love what you eat (even as others around drool and doubt that you’re on a “diet”)…

And experience the best health of your life in 60 days or less starting today.

I know you’ll make the best choice and I look forward to welcoming you aboard!

Click the button below to sign up right now…

SPECIAL OFFER EXPIRES SOON

$150 $19.95

Just click “Add to Cart” now and start preparing delicious plant-based meals and make your days full of energy!

add to cart

Please note the package contains digital downloads and no physical products will be shipped to you.

Take Action Today While  The Plant-Based Recipe Cookbook Is Still On Sale 

Here’s to cooking healthy, plant-based recipes!

Yours Sincerely,

justin kaye

Still not convinced?

Check out a few more notes of appreciation from our Happy Plant-Based Customers…

The recipes are simply stunning – it’s bright, colourful, dreamy and full of healthy inspiration! It’s packed with recipes for every taste and covers so many different cravings! If you are looking to add some variety to your diet and try out some healthy recipes, I 100% recommend this book.

EMILY S.

I’ve been looking for a vegan recipe like this, and I had all the ingredients on hand so I decided to give these a try. TI totally recommend it if you’re looking for original, natural and delicious vegan recipes. So thankful for the recipes and all the hard work Justin has put into the book! Thank you!

TRACY W

When you ditch meat and dairy… everything changes. Remember, those so-called foods were NOT part of our diets thousands of years ago and not coincidentally, there were no incidents of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and other conditions.

But there is a solution when you eat a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, complex carbohydrates and some multi-vitamins, you will have all the energy you need. This is all you need as a vegan to satisfy your nutritional requirements.

Why risk getting sick or suffer through diets filled with rules and boring meals… especially when you now have a way to eat the best-tasting food ever and feel amazing while doing it!

It’s time to step up and prove what you’re made of. The Plant-Based Recipe Book is all you need to cook the tastiest food to help you reach your fitness goals and to feel better than ever!  

Just click “ADD TO CART” button now before you miss out on this new plant based cookbook so you can start enjoying real food while you lose weight and having more energy.

SPECIAL OFFER EXPIRES SOON

$150 $19.95

Just click “Add to Cart” now and start preparing delicious plant-based meals 

and make your days full of energy!

add to cart

Take Action Today While The Plant-Based Recipe Cookbook Is Still On Sale

Chicken with Creamy Mushrooms and Snap Peas Recipe

Ingredients:

4 chicken cutlets (about 1 1/4 pounds), patted dry

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

All-purpose flour, for dredging

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

2 scallions, thinly sliced

8 ounces mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake or a combination), quartered

1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3/4 cup heavy cream

2 cups sugar snap peas, stemmed and halved lengthwiseAdd to Shopping List

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. 1 tablespoon oil should be added to the skillet. Dredge two chicken cutlets in flour, shaking off any excess, and placing in a skillet. 1 1/2 minutes per side until golden; transfer to a baking dish. Continue with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and the remaining 2 chicken cutlets. Wrap the dish in foil and place it in the oven while you prepare the vegetables.

Add the scallions and mushrooms to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms brown, about 4 minutes. Bring the broth to a boil while scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Cook for 3 minutes, or until the liquid has been reduced by half. Add the cream and continue to cook until the sauce thickens slightly, 3 to 4 minutes more. Heat through the snap peas; season with salt and pepper. Serve the chicken with the creamy vegetables on top.

Healthy Happy Dog Secret

These Primal Nutrients
Support A Healthy Happy Dog

Maintain the health and happiness of your best friend using this exclusive formula, backed by science

If you’ve been trying for months or years to get your dog’s energy and zest for life back, know that it’s not your fault.

According to University of Missouri scientists, all dog foods on the market, no matter how expensive, are full of hidden hormones and chemicals that are neither natural nor good for your pup. These hormones cause subtle weight gain, which is harmful to your dog’s health.

That’s why we created

This formula is unlike anything your dog has ever had before. Just imagine what it would feel like to see your dog regaining its vitality, enjoying improved digestion and its fur always looking shiny and taken care of.

What is UltraK9 Pro?

UltraK9 Pro is a canine health supplement made from a unique blend of essential nutrients such as chicken bone broth, MCT oil, turmeric, and others. It is safe to use and provides primal nutrients that most domesticated pets require but rarely receive.

Inside every drop of “UltraK9 Pro” you’ll find:

A bespoke proprietary formula of special high-quality primal nutrients that are specially created to support the health of your dog.

1. BURDOCK ROOT
  • Helps with liver health
  • Soothes the kidneys
  • Relieves stomach pain
2. ASHWAGANDHA
  • Supports hormonal detox
  • Promotes thyroid health
  • Helps relax your dog

3. GINSENG
  • Rich in important minerals
  • Promotes steady weight loss
  • Supports the immune system
4. ASTRAGALUS ROOT
  • Strong adaptogen
  • Helps with digestion
  • Supports heart health

5. TURMERIC
  • Healthy inflammatory response
  • Relieves joint pressure
  • Supports ligament health
6. MCT OIL
  • Easy to digest
  • Helps with arthritis
  • Boosts Turmeric properties

7. HORSETAIL
  • Living fossil plant
  • Supports bone health
  • Rich in calcium
8. BOVINE COLLAGEN
  • Supports joint health
  • Helps with mobility
  • Great protein source

9. DANDELION ROOT
  • Helps clear toxins
  • Rich in proteins
  • Great source of Vit. A
10. CHICKEN BONE BROTH
  • Delicious and rich
  • Easy to digest and good for the stomach
  • Improve skin, coat and bones

 

Natural Formula

 

Plant Ingredients

 

Non-GMO

 

No Stimulants

 

Easy To Use

 

No Chemicals

Every Order Comes With FREE Shipping Too!

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Real UltraK9 Pro Users.
Real Life-Changing Results.

Grace Rees is loving the renewed energy of her pup…

 

Verified Purchase

“After discovering these nutrients, Lola is like a small little puppy again. She is full of life and so happy. We are just a few weeks into using these nutrients and I truly believe it is the best thing I ever did for her.”

Grace Rees – New York, USA

Jacob Jackson has shared the product with all his friends…

 

Verified Purchase

“My goldie, Bobby, has never been happier. Now, at 11 years old, he can outrun most of those younger pups at the park without breaking a sweat. He’s in the best shape of his life and I will make sure to keep him that way.”

Jacob Jackson – Wyoming, USA

Riley Gould is happy with his dog’s health…

 

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“As soon as I started my puppy on these nutrients, he’s been having more energy and it honestly feels like a completely different dog. I can tell how happy and grateful he is that I’m looking out for him.”

Riley Gould – Chicago, USA

Best Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients:

2 cups packed dark brown sugar

1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened 

2 teaspoons vanilla extract 

2 eggs 

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 

1 teaspoon salt 

1/2 teaspoon baking soda 

3 cups old-fashioned oats 

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

2. In the bowl of an electric mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together the brown sugar and butter until fluffy. Beat in the vanilla. Add the eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl after each one.

3. Mix together the flour, salt and baking soda in a medium bowl. Add it into the creamed mixture in 2 to 3 batches, mixing until just combined. Mix in the oats until just combined.

4. Use your preferred size cookie scoop (or a regular spoon) to drop portions of dough onto baking sheets, spacing them a couple inches apart. Bake until dark and chewy, 12 to 13 minutes. If you’d like a crispier cookie, just cook a little longer!

5. Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheets, then transfer onto a plate for serving.

Cook’s Note

Add 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts to the flour mixture if you’d like a nutty flavor and crunch.

Best Chia Seed Pudding Breakfast Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup vanilla-flavored unsweetened almond milk

1 cup plain low-fat (2 percent) Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (preferably grade B), plus 4 teaspoons for serving

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Kosher salt

1/4 cup chia seeds

1 pint strawberries, hulled and chopped

1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, gently whisk the almond milk, yogurt, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, the vanilla and 1/8 teaspoon salt until just blended. Whisk in the chia seeds; let stand 30 minutes. Stir to distribute the seeds if they have settled. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

2. The next day, in a medium bowl, toss the berries with the remaining 4 teaspoons maple syrup. Mix in the almonds.

3. Spoon the pudding into 4 bowls or glasses; mound the berry mixture on top and serve.

Best Balsamic Roast Pork Tenderloins Recipe

Ingredients:

4 1/2 pounds pork tenderloins, 2 packages with 2 tenderloins in each package

4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

8 cloves garlic, cracked

Steak seasoning blend or coarse salt and black pepper

4 sprigs fresh rosemary leaves stripped and finely chopped

4 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped and finely chopped

Directions:

Preheat oven to 500 degrees F.

Trim silver skin or connective tissue off tenderloins with a very sharp thin knife.

Place tender loins on a nonstick cookie sheet with a rim. Coat tenderloins in a few tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, rubbing vinegar into meat. Drizzle tenderloins with extra-virgin olive oil, just enough to coat. Cut small slits into meat and disperse chunks of cracked garlic cloves into meat. Combine steak seasoning blend or coarse salt and pepper with rosemary and thyme and rub meat with blend. Roast in hot oven 20 minutes.

Let meat rest, transfer to a carving board, slice and serve.

Adjusting Calories for Weight Loss

When talking or reading about weight loss, we hear a lot about managing and adjusting our calories. But what exactly are calories? How do we know just the right amount to consume each day? And how might our caloric needs change as we lose weight?

What 100 Calories Really Looks Like

What are Calories?

adjusting calories

The answer to this first question is easy. Calories are a simple way to measure the amount of energy you get when you eat food, says Mayo Clinic. Your body needs calories just to perform its most basic functions—keeping your heart beating and your lungs breathing—as well as to fuel your daily activities, from walking around to working at your job.

Carbohydrates, fats and proteins are the macronutrients that provide the bulk of your calorie intake. According to Mayo Clinic, they are your body’s main energy source. No matter which nutrients you eat, the calories are either rapidly converted to energy or stored in the body as fat. “These stored calories will remain in your body as fat unless you use them up, either by reducing calorie intake so that your body must draw on reserves for energy, or by increasing physical activity so that you burn more calories,” says Mayo Clinic.

Calories and Weight Loss

adjusting calories

According to Merriam-Webster, the metabolism is all the processes by which the body converts calories into energy. You may have heard that if you consume a greater number of calories than you burn, you will gain weight. And this is fundamentally true. However, the number of calories that you need each day is influenced by a variety of metabolic factors, such as your age, gender, height, starting weight and daily activities.

These metabolic factors determine your total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) or the number of calories you burn each day. As you lose weight or change your activity level, your TDEE and metabolism adapts and changes. Because of this, many dieters find that their diet is “less effective” over time. In reality, they haven’t adjusted their eating! They’re still eating for their starting TDEE.

If you continue to diet without adjusting your calories for changes in weight or activity level, your results can take a big hit. According to the peer-reviewed journal, Obesity, losing weight decreases the metabolism, causing you to burn fewer calories throughout the day. Everyday activities also tend to decrease on a reduced calorie diet for weight loss. On the other hand, as you shed extra pounds, you may be more likely to engage in physical activity and structured exercise. While most people assume that an increase in activity leads to faster calorie burning, this is not always the case when dieting. Consuming less calories can cause you to burn less calories during exercise. All of this leads to metabolic adaption and different caloric needs during the weight loss journey.

You’ll get the swiftest results if your weight loss plan accounts for the changes your body goes through as you drop the pounds, as well as all of your other personal attributes. But here’s the good news: adjusting calories doesn’t have to mean giving up foods you like or even eating less food. Instead, you can choose meals and snacks that nourish you well and satisfy your appetite without loading you up on empty calories.

Metabolism and Weight Loss: What You Need to Know

Calories on Nutrisystem

adjusting calories

The all-new personalized programs from Nutrisystem take your unique metabolism and TDEE into account to create a weight loss plan tailored to you. We understand that your metabolism and needs change as you lose weight and get more active. That’s why we’ve integrated the NuMi app into the personalized Nutrisystem journey. This is our smart weight loss tool that adjusts your meal plan to your ever-changing needs, so you can keep losing weight and progressing towards your goal at an inspiring pace. NuMi will monitor your TDEE as you lose weight, adjusting your calories and meal plan as needed. It’s a diet that adapts to you!

There is no doubt that a calorie deficit is important for losing weight. However, decreasing your calories too low for too long can actually hinder your progress. If calorie intake is too low, the body will defend against this by decreasing the metabolism. This is the metabolic adaptation we mentioned earlier! Nutrisystem personalized plans aim for a healthy rate of weight loss, which is about one to two pounds per week. This helps to ensure a healthy weight loss while trying to minimize the metabolic adaptation.

On Nutrisystem, you also get to eat all kinds of foods you love, from burgers and pizza to ice cream and cake. Plus we send them directly to your door in perfect portions for the ultimate convenience.

As you travel on your weight loss journey, Nutrisystem dietitians use the information you provide to recommend the best foods for you from our extensive menu and with the “add-ins” you pick up at the grocery store. This guidance keeps you making progress to your goal, even as your body—and its needs for calories—change. That’s the straightest path to the new, slimmer you!

Lose weight with a personalized meal plan tailored to you! Get started with US today

Best Egg Salad This Easter

Truly the best Egg Salad Recipe you are going to try with minimal ingredients and so quick to make. Hard-boiled eggs with celery, dill, seasoning, and chives in a creamy dressing make up this classic egg salad.

Egg Salad Recipe

This is the easiest egg salad and the perfect way to use up leftover Easter eggs. You’ll love the short list of ingredients but it’s all you need to make one amazing salad: hard-boiled eggs, herbs, celery, and crisp onion in the creamiest dressing.

This can be served in so many different ways – as a side salad, on toast, etc (see more ideas below). This traditional salad is simple, satisfying and a perfect additon to your Easter menu.

Ingredients for Egg Salad

Though this is a simple recipe and uses basic ingredients, it tastes amazing. If you want to dress it up and make it fancier, try these add-ins:

  • Protein- such as crispy bacon, chicken or shrimp.
  • Veggies- tomatoes, cucumbers or carrots are great options. We also love dill pickle egg salad.
  • Avocado- can either be cubed and added to the salad or blended with the dressing to replace some of the mayo.

Pro Tip: If you will be adding other ingredients to the salad, prepare a larger portion of the dressing.

How to Make Egg Salad

Homemade egg salad doesn’t get any easier than this. Just be sure your eggs have cooled completely before preparing the salad or make them ahead and refrigerate until ready to use.

  1. Boil eggs and cool then cut into desired pieces (we like ours chunky for better texture)
  2. Finely chop the celery and red onion (sweet onion may be substituted for red onion)
  3. Chop the chives (or green onions) and fresh dill
  4. Prepare homemade dressing – stir the ingredients together in a bowl
  5. Mix salad well to combine and coat in the dressing

How to Cook Eggs for Egg Salad?

No matter if you boil your eggs on the stove or in the instant pot, be sure they are hard-boiled, but not overcooked. Overcooked eggs end up with a green ring around the yolk. Follow these tutorials for perfect hard-boiled eggs every time:

  • Perfect Boiled Eggs – follow this stove-top method and boil for at least 7 minutes. Fully cooked yolks are best for salad.
  • Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs – works especially well for farm-fresh eggs, making them easier to peel.

Boiled egg, onion, celery, dill salad ingredients cubed in a bowl for Egg Salad.

The Best Dressing for Egg Salad

The dressing in any salad can really make or break a recipe. This awesome creamy dressing adds so much flavor to the simple salad. Eggs never tasted so good!

  • In a bowl, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
  • Mix until the dressing is creamy and ingredients are well incorporated.
Collage how to make creamy Dijon mayonnaise dressing

Are Eggs Good for You?

Eggs are are an inexpensive, healthy, high-quality protein. We love recipes where eggs are the star ingredient like these incredible Deviled Eggs with Bacon and Egg Muffins.

Eggs are nutrient-dense, have zero carbs, no sugar, and will keep you feeling good throughout the day. Egg yolks are rich in choline which is important for brain and liver health. Eggs also contain lutein which benefits eye health.

How to Serve Egg Salad

Though the salad may be enjoyed as a side dish, it is rather versatile. Enjoy these other variations:

  • Egg Salad Sandwich – Serve the egg salad as a sandwich between bread slices, in a croissant, as an open-faced sandwich, or even stuffed in a wrap or pita.
  • Stuffed Avocado – stuff the salad into a halved avocados and serve.
  • Lettuce wrap – Add to lettuce cups or Romaine and enjoy as lettuce wraps.
  • Breakfast sandwich – Load salad onto toast for an easy breakfast sandwich.
Free Range Egg salad with creamy dressing garnished with dill and chives

How to Store Egg Salad?

Leftover egg salad should be stored covered in the refrigerator and can last 3-5 days. It should not be left at room temperature longer than 2 hours.

Pro Tip: If you refrigerate the salad, be sure to taste it before serving. Refrigerating tends to make the flavors more subtle as they meld together, so add some salt and seasoning to taste.

Best Easter Tuna Salad

While we enjoy a variety of tuna salads, this classic version takes the cake. Crispy celery and red onion add zest and crunch, while mayonnaise and a hint of mustard bring everything together. Although the lemon juice is not traditional, we strongly recommend it to brighten the flavors of the final dish.

Ingredients

Two 6-ounce cans white meat tuna packed in water, drained

2 tablespoons minced celery

2 tablespoons minced red onion, soaked in cold water for 5 minutes and drained

1 teaspoon minced flat-leaf parsley

1/3 cup prepared mayonnaise

1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard

Freshly ground black pepper

Freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)

Directions

In a small mixing bowl break up the tuna with a fork. Toss with the celery, onion and parsley. Add the mayonnaise, mustard and season with pepper, to taste. Stir to combine. Add lemon juice, to taste, if using.

Cook’s Note

Substitute 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for the whole-grain mustard and add 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish.

Amazing Chocolate Bunnies Your Easter Basket Needs This Year

If the best part of Easter is indulging in candy, you’re probably looking forward to diving into a big ol’ chocolate Easter bunny. We decided to round up some of our favorite chocolate Easter bunnies that you can order online right now because this iconic spring treat is a staple this time of year. Some of them are hollow, while others are solid blocks with interesting fillings. What do they all have in common? They are absolutely delectable. Indeed, Happy Easter!

Mr. and Mrs. Ears Milk Chocolate Easter Bunnies

These chocolate bunnies have everything! We can’t get enough of this adorable couple and think they’d be perfect as a set or separately in children’s baskets. They’ll taste great, too, because they’re made of high-quality milk chocolate.

Simply Chocolate Easter Bunny Quartet

These bunnies come in a set of four, with two milk chocolate bunnies, one dark chocolate bunny, and one white chocolate bunny, so there should be enough for the whole family!

Chocolate Bunny

For a classic present option for everyone on your list, this bunny is made with dark, white and milk chocolate.

Jacques Torres Chocolate Smiling Bunny

This happy little bunny weighs 10.6 ounces and is available in both dark and milk chocolate. Although this bunny is not filled, it stands 10-inches tall and is sure to make a statement in any Easter basket.

Bissinger’s Paint a Bunny Kit

This option includes not only a delicious milk chocolate Easter bunny, but also an Easter morning activity. This adorable bunny comes with two paint brushes as well as pink, white, green, and yellow chocolate paints.

Reese’s Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Bunny

Calling all peanut butter lovers! This milk chocolate bunny is filled with the same delectable peanut butter filling that Reese’s fans know and love, just this time in a festive shape.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools That are Less Than $15

It’s easy to stare with envy at expensive kitchen gadgets that make your home feel restaurant-level. Even as you fill your wishlist and save up for those, you can add a few dollars to your kitchen tool collection. These simple gadgets can cut down on prep time, make cleaning easier and even elevate the simplest recipes. Stocking your kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank.

Joseph Joseph 2-In-1 Collapsible Balloon and Flat Whisk

Whisks by nature take up a lot of valuable space in your utensil drawer, but this foldable whisk collapses for easy storage. It’s dishwasher safe and made of silicone-coated steel to save your nonstick cookware from scraping metal. With a twist of the handle, it goes in between a balloon whisk for fluffy egg whites or a flat whisk for blending gravy ingredients.

OXO 3-in-1 Egg Separator

This compact egg-shaped separator is dishwasher-safe and made for breakfast or baking. It hooks onto the side of a bowl to prevent dripping on the counter or the sides of your favorite pan. The separator comes with a plastic nub for easy cracking. Egg whites fall into a bowl while the yolk is saved, and this gadget prevents egg shells from falling in.

Angry Mama Microwave Steam Cleaner

Microwave grime can build up over time, and it’s easy to forget to clean it between uses. Rather than make a mess with a soapy sponge or scrub too hard with a wipe, this microwave cleaner provides an easy solution with natural ingredients. Simple household vinegar and water converts to steam in the cleaner, treating caked-on stains. Wipe away pasta sauce, grease and whatever else graces your microwave with ease.

Collapsible Splatter Guard & Colander

Prevent those microwave messes in the first place with this splatter guard. There’s nothing like a multipurpose kitchen tool. The vent holes at the top of the guard allow steam to escape, but turn it upside down and it becomes a colander for rinsing fresh produce. Plus, it’s collapsible for easy storage in a narrow space.

Meat and Potato Masher

Decrease time spent crumbling meat at the stove with this five-blade spatula. Meat won’t stick to it like it would to a wooden spoon, and its heat resistant nylon saves your nonstick pans and cast irons from metal utensil scratching. The spatula is family gathering friendly, so you can make mashed potatoes, crumble pounds of sausage, tenderize steak or mash avocados for a smooth guacamole.

Silicone Trivets

Trivets are an essential for any stovetop cooking. Many countertops are made of material not designed to handle heat, such as marble. These trivets keep pans from being placed directly on the countertop. When not using it for pots and pans, it can be a spoon rest or a jar opener, and its intricate design adds an elegant touch to your kitchen.

Kitchen Sink Splash Guard

The splash zone around your kitchen faucet can be an annoying thing to dry, not to mention an area for bacteria to grow. This splash catcher is designed to drain, keeping water and bacteria from collecting around your faucet. This washable silicone mat fits snug around the faucet for a neater sink and comes with grips as the perfect surface for sponges and soap to rest, drain and dry.

Joseph Joseph BladeBrush Knife and Cutlery Cleaner

Cutlery might take less time to wash than pots, pans and plates, but getting in the nooks and crannies of forks can be easier with this blade brush. Use it to clean knives and protect your hands from the blade for a thorough, safe clean. Avoid slicing open sponges with this brush with bristles that make cleaning the cutlery a breeze. The textured handgrip claims to provide steadiness when dealing with soaking wet cutlery.

Zulay Milk Frother

Upgrade your home barista skills with this easy-to-use milk frother. Whether you’re using it for morning matcha, powdered greens or milk foam on coffee (or an extra fancy hot cocoa). You can even use milk frothers to create Instagram-worthy syrup patterns in your glass. The frother claims to work on all milk types, so go wild with the alternative of your choosing.

Best Meal Prep Containers

If you like to plan your meals ahead of time, chop and portion your produce the moment you get home from the grocery store, or simply like to have all of your ingredients parsed out mise-en-place style when cooking, prepping containers may be some of your most-used kitchen tools. We shopped for the best meal prep containers in 11 categories to ensure you have the best supplies in your kitchen. Here are our top picks for lunch containers, snack containers, and more.

Best Overall: Zoku 11-Piece Neat Stack

Space-saving and easy-to-organize features should be top of mind when choosing meal-prep containers (or really any type of storage container). This brings us to our overall favorite. Their nesting design allows them to stack compactly, which is ideal for saving space, and the fact that they’re leak-proof with airtight lids is an added bonus. Another feature that earns these containers our top rating is that they are labeled with specific cup measures, allowing you to customize your portions.

Best for Lunches: Brabantia Make & Take Lunch Set

Whether you’re heading into the office or staying at home, having your lunch prepped and portioned makes for a quick mid-day meal. This lunch set’s rectangular container is ideal for a jumbo sandwich, and the soup mug has an additional screw-on container for toppings. It’s a versatile container set designed to fit daily lunches, no matter what they look like on any given day.

Best Bento: Bentgo Bento Box

If you like having a variety of lunch options, this leak-proof Bento Box will not disappoint. There will be no spills and no chance for items to merge from section to section thanks to a removable divider that allows you to create custom compartments and a secure locking clip. Also, congratulations on the color scheme. The mint green version is our favorite!

Best Container Set: FullStar 50-Piece Food Storage Container Set

If you’re the type of home cook who worries about not having enough food storage containers, FullStar’s 50-piece set (also available in 10, 14, and 17 pack sizes) will make you happy. You can put these in the fridge, freezer, and microwave, they’re stain-resistant and dishwasher-safe, and our favorite feature is that they come with black labels and a chalk pen so you know exactly what’s inside.

Best for Prepped Ingredients: Rubbermaid Brilliance 12-Piece Food Storage Set

This set ensures that your on-the-go meals will stay fresher for longer. Furthermore, these 100% leak-proof containers have an airtight seal, are BPA-free, and are stain- and odor-resistant, making them ideal for storing tomato sauce or any recipe that calls for garlic and onions.

Best Glass: OXO Smart Seal Glass Container Sets

These glass containers were created to be easily transferred from the freezer to the microwave, dishwasher, and even the oven. Furthermore, the interchangeable lids (another feature we appreciate) separate from the elastic liner, making them simple and effective to clean. With this level of adaptability, you’ll be able to get food on the table faster while also keeping it hot.

Best Insulated: Hydro Flask Insulated Food Jars

With Hydro Flask Jars, your road trip sandwich days are over. These are double-walled, vacuum-insulated containers that keep hot foods hot for hours. Made from pro-grade stainless steel, these wide-mouth, BPA-free jars are a must-have if you’re planning on slurping soup on the road.

Coconut Bunny Butt Cake

This cake’s dense pound cake-like texture, which is beneficial for securing the cupcakes and decorating, comes from the inclusion of crushed pineapple in the batter. The cakes and cupcakes can be baked and wrapped in plastic wrap a day in advance. If your frosting effort isn’t flawless, don’t worry; coconut-coating the cake will cover up any imperfections.

Ingredients:

2 large eggs plus 4 egg whites, at room temperature

3/4 cup cream of coconut

1/2 cup drained crushed pineapple

2 teaspoons coconut extract

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for the bowl (see Cook’s Note)

1 cup sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon fine salt

12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces, at room temperature, plus more for greasing bowl

Coconut Buttercream:

3 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 to 2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

Decoration:

Thin pretzel sticks, for securing the cupcakes

One 10-ounce bag sweetened shredded coconut

8 drops green food coloring

2 large round chocolate candies, such as Candy Melts

6 chocolate chips

Mini candy-coated chocolate eggs, for garnish

5 dried apricots

3 gummy leaf candies

Directions:

Special equipment: an 8-inch (1 1/2 quart) ovenproof metal bowl; a muffin tin with paper liners

  • Set the oven’s temperature to 325 F. An 8-inch (1 1/2 quart) ovenproof metal bowl should be butter and floured. Place paper liners in 4 muffin tins.
  • In a big basin, whisk the egg yolks and egg whites for the cake. The cream of coconut, pineapple, coconut essence, and vanilla extract should all be whisked in at this point. In a separate big basin, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. With an electric mixer set to low speed, incorporate the butter one piece at a time until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add half of the egg mixture, and beat for 1 to 2 minutes on high, until frothy. When incorporating the remaining egg mixture, scrape down the bowl’s sides as necessary. The remaining batter should be poured into the prepared bowl after filling each muffin cup two-thirds full. For the cupcakes, bake for 18 to 20 minutes, and for the bowl, bake for 1 hour 30 to 1 hour 40 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the center of each cake comes out clean. After removing the cakes from the pans, allow them to cool for 15 minutes on a wire rack before turning them out to finish cooling.
  • To make the buttercream, use an electric mixer to combine the butter and confectioners’ sugar on low speed. Then, increase the speed and beat for one to two minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. For an additional 2 to 3 minutes, beat in 1 tablespoon of milk, the vanilla, and the coconut extracts. If the frosting is too stiff, add up to 1 tablespoon more milk.
  • Trim the flat bottom of the bowl-shaped cake with a serrated knife so it rests level on a platter, rounded-side up, and cover with a layer of buttercream frosting. To create the bunny’s feet, remove the cupcake wrappers and secure 2 of them with a pretzel stick each to the cake’s base (allow about 1 1/2 inches between the feet). The third cupcake should be divided in half, top to bottom. With the cut side facing down and the rounded edges positioned to form the heels of the feet, attach the cupcake halves to the tops of the feet with pretzel sticks. To create a tail, attach the final cupcake with a pretzel stick to the bottom half of the cake’s top. With the remaining frosting, frost the cupcakes. Wipe away any smeared frosting on the cake plate.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut should be patted all over the cake. Place the rest of the coconut in a large zip-top plastic bag. Add the green food coloring to the bag along with 2 teaspoons of water. Toss and massage the coconut until it is a uniform shade of green. Place the chocolate candies in the bottoms of the bunny feet, with the larger ones on top and the smaller ones underneath, to resemble the toe pads. Make grass out of green coconut and decorate with candy eggs on the cake plate. Roll the apricots into carrot shapes after flattening them with a rolling pin. Cut the leaves in half crosswise and snip them to look like carrot tops with scissors. Arrange the carrot tops in the grass around the bunny by inserting them into the wider end of the apricot carrots.

Baker’s Note:

When we measure flour, we spoon it into a dry measuring cup and level it off. (Scooping the flour directly from the bag compacts it, resulting in dry baked goods.)

HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS SECRET

Regardless of your dietary or activity habits, are you having trouble losing weight? It appears that you are not to blame.

A team of researchers from Stanford University School of Medicine identified one common element in 2023 after analyzing more than 170 years’ worth of scientific data: low core body temperature in overweight men and women. What is another characteristic of slender people? Typical body temperature

The temperature of your inside organs and cells determines your inner body temperature, not how hot or cold your body or skin feels. Also, clinical studies conducted in Switzerland have revealed that the internal body temperature affects how your body metabolizes fat.

Calorie burning occurs quickly and effortlessly when the internal body temperature is normal. Your metabolism is low if your internal body temperature is low. In actuality, your metabolism decreases by 13% or more for every decrease in internal body temperature.

That is why we created

What is ALPILEAN?

Alpilean is a breakthrough dietary blend created on an ancient weight management remedy called Alpine Ice Hack. It has become increasingly popular in January 2023 due to thousands of customer reviews that add more trust to the product

You have never tried or experienced anything like Alpilean before.

It is one of the only products in the entire world to have a unique combination of six alpine nutrients and plants that are intended to target and optimize low inner body temperature, a new factor in unexplained weight gain.

You may jolt your sleeping metabolism into full fat-burning, energy-boosting mode by focusing on internal body temperature!

Each Alpilean capsule contains the following:

Your calorie-burning metabolism is boosted by 6 natural substances with a track record of clinical research that targets the inner body temperature.

1. GOLDEN ALGAE (fucoxanthin)

Supports Liver and Brain Health

Targets Inner Temperature.

Supports Bone Strength.

2. DIKA NUTS (african mango seed)

Eases Digestion and Bloating

Supports Healthy Cholesterol

Targets Inner Temperature

3. DRUMSTICK TREE LEAF (moringa leaf)

Targets Inner Temperature.

Rich in Antioxidants

Supports Healthy Blood Sugar

4. BIGARADE ORANGE (citrus bioflavanoids)

Supports Healthy Immunity.

Targets Inner Temperature.

Reduces Oxidative Stress

5. GINGER RHIZOME (ginger root)

Targets Inner Temperature

Maintains Tooth and Gum Health

Supports Healthy Muscles

6. TURMERIC RHIZOME (turmeric root)

Supports Healthy Skin

Supports Weight Loss

Targets Inner Temperature

  • Natural Formular
  • Easy to Swallow
  • Plant Ingredients
  • No Stimulants
  • Non-GMO
  • Non-Habit Forming

You can’t get this product to buy in any shop, online store, suppermarkets, websites etc. Alpilean can ONLY be purchased from their official website. Click below to buy this product.

>>(LIMITED SUPPLIES) BUY NOW!!<<

IF YOU NEED A CONTENT OR ARTICLE WRITER FOR YOUR WEBSITE OR BLOG, KINDLY GET INT OUCH WITH US. WE PROVIDE THE BEST SERVICES IN THE MARKET.

HEALTHY TEETH TREATMENT

A recent study put out in the Springer Nature publication found that people who have good teeth have a high population of good bacteria in the mouth.

(Hint – No Toothpaste or Mouthwash Involved)

As it turns out, many common dental products (such as toothpaste and mouthwash) contain toxic ingredients that can destroy the microbiome in the mouth. This explains why teeth can thrive for hundreds of years outside the mouth (in fossils), while in our mouth they get ruined by something so simple as chocolate.

That’s why we created

WHAT IS PRODENTIM?

ProDentim is an oral health dietary supplement. It also contains additional nutrients and probiotics for your teeth and gums. It is newly created to stop harmful bacteria from harming your gums and causing cavities.

ProDentim is a doctor-formulated oral probiotic candy that helps rebuild healthy teeth and gums and long-lasting fresh breath by a creating bacteria-rich environment in the mouth microbiome. The main purpose of ProDentim is to enhance the oral microbiome by boosting the saliva and by introducing beneficial bacteria to the oral cavities.

ProDentim is unlike anything you’ve ever tried or experienced in your life before.
It’s the only product in the world with a unique blend of 3.5 billion probiotics and nutrients, specially designed to repopulate your mouth with good bacteria.

ProDentim has assisted men and women in avoiding expensive dental procedures. The supplement not only cares for teeth and gums but also for the health of the respiratory system, ear, nose, and throat, as well as of fresh breath.

Soft pills in ProDentim must be chewed every morning. It is stated that these tablets release beneficial probiotic strains in the mouth, which can grow throughout the day.

The beneficial strains stop harmful bacteria from creating plaque, cavities, and structural damage.

Given that it was created by experts, including dentists, ProDentim is even recommended by them. As you chew the soft pills every day, its 3.5 billion probiotics can work wonders.

How does ProDentim work?

Three beneficial probiotic strains totaling 3.5 billion in ProDentim. The mixture works brilliantly when these are simply delivered into your mouth. The beneficial bacteria spread out and populate the entire mouth.

By eliminating the excess harmful bacteria, this naturally restores equilibrium to the oral microbiome.

The issue is totally resolved by getting rid of the harmful bacteria since they damage your teeth and cause inflammation, cavities, bad breath, periodontal diseases, and tooth decay.

Consuming ProDentim might simply be beneficial for every area of your body that interacts with your mouth. Your nose, throat, and ears can all profit.

These areas will be protected from harmful microorganisms and have their wellbeing taken care of. Also, as the supplement contains mint as well, you will always have fresh breath with a mint flavor.

What are the ingredients in ProDentim

ProDentim is a mix of 3.5 billion probiotic strains and 4 important natural ingredients. Here’s the complete list:

  1. Lactobacillus Paracasei
This is a good strain of bacteria that may grow swiftly to prevent any harm in your mouth. It completely restores oral microbiome balance and stops harmful bacteria from eroding your enamel and creating cavities. Also, it keeps your sinuses open and free and supports healthy gums.

2. B.Lactis BL-04: In order to completely defeat the harmful bacteria, this good bacteria multiplies in every region of your mouth. Also, it stops harmful bacteria from traveling from your mouth to your ears, nose, and throat. It keeps periodontal diseases at bay and maintains a strong immune system to combat illnesses of the mouth.

3. Lactobacillus Reuteri: Most oral health problems can be resolved because to this beneficial bacteria’s anti-inflammatory properties. It instantly lessens swelling, redness, ulcers, pain, inflammation, and a host of other similar problems. By bringing the balance between the good and bad bacteria, it promotes a healthier oral environment.

4. Inulin: The probiotic strains are supposed to multiply more quickly as a result. It could be challenging for the healthy bacteria to immediately outnumber the bad ones and multiply once they reach your mouth. ProDentim soft tablets maintain a healthy oral environment that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria thanks to inulin and other natural substances.

5. Malic Acid

Malic Acid, which comes from strawberries, keeps your teeth bright and white. Our teeth look unsightly and fragile because of the yellow tartar and plaque. Your teeth will be substantially whiter when they return to their original color because to malic acid’s ability to strengthen the teeth and enamel.

6. Tricalcium Phosphate: This component contains calcium, as its name would imply. It can fortify the jaw’s supporting bones that are located behind the teeth. Moreover, it can lessen nerve sensitivity, which in some people may potentially result in headaches. As a result, it promotes full oral and respiratory health.

7. Peppermint

Peppermint is a powerful anti-inflammatory that greatly promotes dental health. As soon as you start chewing on soft tablets, it starts to alleviate pain and calm inflammation. It is believed that peppermint releases beneficial bacteria and promotes their growth, both of which benefit in preventing foul breath. All day long, you can breathe cleanly.

What are the benefits of ProDentim?

Your teeth and gums’ external layer of defense is strengthened by it.

It nourishes the enamel and stops it from entirely degrading.

It makes the bones stronger and improves their capacity to support your teeth.

It combats chronic inflammation and encourages better inflammatory responses.

It reduces the growth of harmful germs in the mouth.

ProDenttim probiotic candy helps treat newly developed cavities while also preventing them.

It aids in maintaining healthy gums.

Your teeth stay brighter and whiter thanks to it.

The respiratory system is supported by it.

It keeps your sinuses open and unblocked.

It avoids headaches brought on by sensitive teeth.

It functions as an anti-inflammatory for oral health and reduces pain and swelling.

It supports a stronger immune system.

It shields against periodontal diseases.

It lessens mouth infections, redness, irritation, dryness, and ulcers.

Moreover, it eases digestion because it’s good for the intestines.

Regardless of your age or oral health, it helps your teeth remain healthy for many more years.

Plaque and tartar don’t grow because of it.

It functions better than dental procedures and even saves money on procedures.

Real ProDentim Users.
Real Life-Changing Results.

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What is the cost of ProDentim? 

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Luke Bryan on Staying Fit Over 40 and Completing His First Century Ride

Luke Bryan on country's "delicate conversation" about race - Los Angeles  Times

Luke Bryan feels at home on the road. Whether that means being on tour, performing to thousands, or hitting the pavement on his bike. For the Nashville native, cycling is an escape from the digital world and a low-impact means of staying strong.

“I’m a big guy,” says Bryan, who stands at 6’2. “I used to love jogging, but if I hit the stage after a long run, I would be feeling it in my knees. My concerts are very physical and the deeper I got into the setlist the more I would feel the toll of those miles.”

Now, Bryan doesn’t leave home without his wheels. We caught up with the country singer to talk about his love of cycling, fitness on the road, and completing his first century ride.

Men’s Journal: How has your relationship with fitness evolved over the course of your career?

Luke Bryan: You know, during the start of my career, when I was in my early 20s, I could just drink a few less beers and lose 12 pounds. Even into my 30s it didn’t take too much to get my body into a good place. Now that I’ve hit my 40s, it takes more; it’s trickier. You have to be a little more conscious about what you’re taking in. And you have to make sure to stay as active as you can.

How have you trained in the past?

I remember when I moved to Nashville in 2001, I felt like I was a little overweight, so I started jogging a lot. I would run somewhere around five or six miles daily, then I would go play a lot of basketball with the guys. I got into the best shape of my life around that time. On top of that I tried all of these workout programs like P90x and Insanity, but started to feel the aftereffects of them in my joints. That had a lot to do with how I beat my body up in my youth working for my dad, spending my days just picking up heavy stuff. The runs started to leave me in pain too. I needed to find another way to stay moving.

How did you find your way to cycling?

It really happened about five years ago. I met [former professional racing cyclist] Robbie Ventura and [entrepreneur] John Cassimus, who is also a big rider. We all shared a mutual friend Sam Bell, who’s also a great rider, and owned Blackberry Farm in Nashville. He sadly passed away after a skiing accident at an early age. So it became about paying homage to Sam and becoming more familiar with what he was passionate about. That’s one of the entry points into cycling.

What do you enjoy about it?

First off, having a family while also being on the move so much, and having to travel constantly, you want to savor every second you can. So the fact that I can walk out to my garage, get on my bike, and immediately be working out is a huge benefit—rather than having to get into my car, commute, park, and try to squeeze in a session. Next I would say I love cruising in my neighborhood. From my house going south it’s just some of the best road cycling you could dream up. The roads are built on this hard Tennessee limestone—real smooth, no cracks or bumps. The hills are incredible, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing. There are these great routes where you go under amazing canopy.

Do you have a favorite local cycling route?

I love a ride at the beach. My friends at Trek sent me a beautiful fat bike, perfect for cruising through the sand. I inflate those big ‘ol tires to about 5 or 10 PSI and just get down by the water. That’s especially fun because you don’t have to worry about traffic, parking, and if you fall because you aren’t going to get too hurt. I like doing a little one-hour trip to the beach. Ride around, jump in the water, then an easy one-hour ride back. It doesn’t get much better than that for a day activity.

How do you get your cycling in and stay fit on tour?

I have a closet that I store my bike in when I’m on the road. I also have a Wahoo KICKR stationary that I can use when I can’t make it on the road and want to stay safe. I’ve been using that Wahoo for over three years at this point. I’ll get on Swift and try to beat my times, see what my guys have done. Either way I try to get about an hour or an hour and a half in the seat. I also have a trainer who I bring on the the road with me, Brad Roby at Shed Fitness. I’m always moving on tour, so it’s not too hard to stay in shape.

Do you listen to music?

I love music, but I think it’s really important to be able to hear the road, especially when I’m riding somewhere I’m not familiar with. So I try to avoid headphones, but I’m able to clamp my phone onto my handlebars, so sometimes I’ll put the music over the speaker. I don’t really need music to pump me up though. I get a lot from just hearing the wind out in nature. It’s important to have those mental escapes from time to time.

Have you come up with songs on your rides?

I’ve definitely written songs on rides. I always have my iPhone in my back pocket so when I have a moment of inspiration whether it’s music or lyrics, I’ll record it. I have these little voice notes of me singing with the wind in the background. Being out there, in nature, with your mind quiet, there’s no better situation for inspiration. There have been many times where I’ve called song-writing friends from my bike to discuss ideas.https://www.instagram.com/p/CD2dFzbli5Z/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=12&wp=658&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fbodyweightloss.com&rp=%2Farticles%2F2020%2F08%2F19%2Fluke-bryan-on-staying-fit-over-40-and-completing-his-first-century-ride%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A9843.769999977667%7D

What was the motivation for doing your first century ride?

I’ve been doing some pretty long rides recently, going out around the house and doing 40 or 50 miles. A few of the guys I know who watch my numbers and stats came to me and said I was ready for the 100 miles. I wasn’t so sure, but I couldn’t turn it down. I also have a Trek Madone perfectly fit for me, which makes the miles easy.

How did you prepare for it?

We rang up a local trainer, Dave Carpenter, who works with triathletes, and he built us a course based off the routes we were going to be hitting. I did the ride with Robbie Ventura, who has quite a few [century] wins under his belt, I think like 50 or 60 of them. He rode for the Postal Service team. Now he owns a training company up north of Chicago called Vision Quest. There were six of us riding, and everyone else had done multiple century rides, so I was definitely in good company. There was even a doctor in the crew, so if something happened we were covered.

How did the ride go?

We did it under six hours. We started at my house, at around 6 in the morning. There was a nice fog outside. The whole ride was magical honestly. The sun was behind clouds most of the time, but by noon it was starting to get pretty hot, which made it a little more difficult. We actually ended up riding for 105 miles.

What did you enjoy about completing the century?

It was unlike anything I’ve ever done before. I really liked challenging myself to that degree, in terms of endurance. The real great part started on the 50th mile. I had never gone farther than that on one of my solo rides, so it was pretty cool that, for the whole second half of the ride, every single mile was a new personal best. Even when the miles were challenging, that idea really helped propel me on.

How did you celebrate the completion?

To get that sodium and carbs, we ordered a bunch of sushi to the house, along with some noodles and lo mein, and a couple beers to wash everything down. Nothing after a good long ride than a nice cold beer. I have my own label called Two Lane Lagers, so that’s the brew of choice.

5 Best Lean Muscle Protein Powders For Any Gym Lover

Working out is a great way to stay healthy. But if you want to boost the results of any workout, you need to pick up some protein powders. That way you can make shakes before and after a workout to fuel your body with the proper nutrients. But not all protein powders are made the same.

You have plenty of options to choose from out there. So to help you make the right choice for your needs, check out the selection we have gathered for you below.

If you want to grab the best overall container of protein powder, then you would be wise to pick this container up. To us, it is the best overall for a few reasons. For one, it’s very affordable for the amount you will get. Another being that it tastes really good, making it very easy to ingest it. It’s also lacking in lactose, carbs, and fat while also being very low in sugars. No unnatural comedown after taking this. But to us, what makes it so great is that the protein will absorb into your bloodstream much quicker than others. So if you want the all-around package, then this is the one for you.

There are plenty of great protein powders out there for you to pick up. But a good deal of them has sugar in them. If you aren’t looking to fill your body up with sugar but you still want a highly effective protein powder, then this is the one for you. You will gain a ton of muscle and burn a whole lot of fat with this in your workout routine. So if you don’t have an attraction for sugar in your diet, then this is the one for you.

When you workout, you are more likely than not looking to build muscle. So a protein powder is there to aid in your musculature’s growth. But with this option, you won’t just see your body growing with muscle. You will also see it burn away that excess fat that you no longer want to see on your body. You’ll get plenty of energy to keep up the good work during your workout. And with this in your workout routine, you will see yourself gain a lean and mean looking body. So if fat burning is key for you, then look no further.

For plenty of people out there, cutting out dairy is a vital way to stay healthy and lose weight. There’s a lot of good protein powders out there that wouldn’t fly for these folks. But this option is not just great for them because it is dairy-free. It’s just great in general. Your body will be very happy that you are putting this into it. All-natural ingredients make the body feel great and it greatly helps in aiding in your workout. Muscles will grow and energy won’t be depleted. Not to mention that despite the lack of dairy, it will still taste amazing going down. So pick this up if you want to avoid dairy in your life.

Everyone working out at the gym or at home is focused on making their bodywork a lot better than it has before. But there tends to be one element people forget in this journey. And that is making sure your immune system stays strong too. If you work out too hard and burn yourself out, you can severely weaken the immune system. But with this protein powder, your immune system will be just as strong as your new muscles. Get all the help you need to make the most of your workouts and keep your self from getting sick. You can’t go wrong with those options.

>>Check out the protein powders below<<

What It’s Like to Live With Parosmia and Anosmia

There’s something about a global pandemic and lengthy at-home lockdown that seems to intensify the need for an after-work cocktail. In April, I considered a bottle of Cazadores blanco a pantry staple. Cracking ice into a rocks glass with a shot of tequila, soda water, and a squeeze of lime or two was the occasional, after-work break I needed from hitting refresh on the The New York Times website over and over again. But for a few weeks, the drink tasted like nothing. A cold collection of bubbles that was relaxing in its effervescence but wholly devoid of flavor. The smell was empty, too. I came down with COVID-19 in early March. I was lucky to have a mild case that put me out of commission for a few weeks but needed no hospitalization. The strangest symptom for me was the complete loss of smell, something called anosmia (and later, parosmia). At the time, smell loss was newly linked to COVID; now, it’s a more reliable predictor of infection than a PCR test. It happened very suddenly.

One morning, I could smell; that evening, I could not. I was sitting in bed, drinking ginger lemon tea and hitting refresh repeatedly on the news. A story popped up about anosmia in European novel coronavirus cases and, suddenly, I realized the tea I was drinking was nothing more than scentless, tasteless, warm water. My nose was clear, but my brain registered nothing. I leaned over to my boyfriend, who had been embracing his new work-from-home setup and had gotten more lax on showering. Nothing.

My inability to smell lingered long after I recovered from the other symptoms of the virus. The air inside my home had no comforting, discerning scents. No fragrances of morning coffee, fresh laundry, or anything at all. It made cooking challenging (how spicy could it be, really?), but cleaning out my cat’s litter box was a breeze. I immediately became aware of something that had never crossed my mind before: My ability to smell my surroundings was far from guaranteed. Initially, I worried daily that maybe my sense to smell was gone forever. I felt weirdly alone without it—separated from a perception of my environment I’d always taken for granted. Thankfully, by the end of April, I started to taste the tartness of lime in my tequila sodas again, soon followed by the subtle presence of agave.

Bit by bit, it came slowly back. By early May, I could smell most things around me, though not as intensely as before. Eating was enjoyable again. I wasn’t permanently changed, but my anosmia had gotten markedly better. But then, during the third week of May, I took one sip of a freshly made drink and forcibly spit it out onto the counter before I could make it to the sink. Tequila. Soda water. Lime. But what I tasted was a forgotten pile of vegetables left way too long in the fridge— like rotten zucchini had been muddled into the beverage. A putrid, ripe smell emanating from the glass caught my nose and I gagged, dumping the tequila down the sink.

Suddenly, many previously normal smells—in particular, smells I loved—were rancid. A geranium-scented hand soap in the kitchen smelled like rotten squash. Taking a shower was an exercise in sensory futility between fragrant shampoos and facewash. I had to hold my breath in order not to gag walking through the produce section of the grocery store. Most fruits—from strawberries to pineapple, oranges to bananas—were completely inedible as they tasted as terrible as they smelled. I had to stop eating cucumbers, tortilla chips, eggs, and olives—among many other things. One of the most crushing blows: when pizza tasted so awful I had to hold my breath to get down a single bite.

This sounds ridiculous, I know. The idea that a piece of pepperoni pizza could taste rotten when it’s most definitely not, sounds crazy. It sounds made up. And it sounds like something that shouldn’t be a big deal because it’s not life-threating. I was otherwise okay; everything around me just made me gag. It wasn’t until I discovered AbScent, a UK-based non-profit dedicated to promoting awareness of smell disorders and offering support for sufferers, that I even learned what was happening to me. Experts refer to the distortion of smell as parosmia. Chrissi Kelly, who grew up in Maine but has lived in England for the past three decades, founded AbScent after her own experience with anosmia that began in 2012. “It’s very, very difficult to get people to understand just how awful it is to lose your sense of smell,” she told me. “It’s a very isolating experience. [Friends and family] think to themselves, ‘Well, I can plug my nose and I can see what that’s like and I just don’t get it. What’s the big deal?’ And the fact of the matter is that people who lose limbs, people who lose their eyesight, people who lose their hearing recover their well-being eventually, within about two years. People who lose their sense of smell tend to deteriorate over time.”

How COVID-19 Can Affect Your Sense of Smell

There are two ways viral infections can cause smell loss. The first is through mucus blockage—i.e. a stuffed-up nose—that prevents odors from reaching receptors in the upper part of the nasal passage. The second, which is generally more rare, is when the olfactory neuroepithelium—the tissue that lines the nose and contains the nerves that communicate scent to the brain—is damaged by the virus. “Basically, if the nerves are damaged, that can lead to a more profound loss of sense of smell,” explains Dr. Evan R. Reiter, professor of otolaryngology – head and neck surgery at Virginia Commonwealth University. While the research on smell loss and COVID-19 is of course, still evolving, studies have found that smell loss affects anywhere from 50-80 percent of individuals who contract the virus. That is not an insignificant amount. A recent study in Europe reinforced the distinctiveness of loss of smell and taste caused by SARS-CoV-2, sharing that while many people seem to recover quickly, there is reason to believe that problems with olfactory functioning will persist for some, long after they’ve otherwise recovered from the virus.

What Living With Anosmia and Parosmia Is Really Like

While far from a medical niche, smell and taste disorders exist outside of the general purview partly because of a lack of familiarity and partly because they just don’t seem as serious as issues with the other senses. This can make it confusing for those experiencing it, as well, gauging how to react or when to see a doctor. But, a lack of smell presents a set of real, life-affecting problems. Some scents alert us to possible danger: smoke from a fire, sulfur from a gas leak, even the smell of something burning on the stove. But even more, scent provides a way to connect with those around us. It provides comfort, familiarity and often nostalgia; it helps us to understand and interact with our environment in ways we really never consider until they disappear.

If anosmia is already an unfamiliar condition, then parosmia is even more so. With parosmia, the distortion usually happens with smells that are familiar. Generally pleasant scents are replaced with aggressively foul odors, like rotten vegetables or cigarette smoke. Parosmia renders food inedible and makes simple chores, like washing dishes, very challenging. How does it work? “In general, there are thousands of different receptors, all coded by different genes for olfactory neurons,” explains Dr. Reiter. “Most odors are relatively complex; they stimulate a whole bunch of different types of sensors. Your brain gets input from all these different receptors, then puts all that together to determine, this is a rose, this is my husband, this is dog poop. With parosmia, when there’s damage from any source, potentially all of the neurons and sensors are not affected the same, so instead of getting the signals from all of these different receptors, which the brain is used to, it’s maybe only getting signals from 25 or 50 percent—and when it puts that together, it changes the nature of what you’re smelling.”

What this means is that I dread brushing my teeth because the toothpaste tastes like it’s spoiled. A squeeze of lime in a cocktail—previously a nice way to wind down after work—is enough reason to pour my drink down the drain. For me, five months out from having COVID-19, parosmia affects every aspect of my daily life in a savagely smelly way.

How COVID-19 Could Help Experts Raise Awareness Around Olfactory Disorders

The nature of COVID-19 offers a unique opportunity to learn more about smell disorders in ways that can help people in the future. In early April, Dr. Reiter, who is also the medical director of the VCU Smell and Taste Clinic, launched a study with his team to understand more about the loss of these senses. “More often than not, when people experience changes in their sense of smell due to a virus, they will come in months or even years after their viral infection, simply because it hasn’t gotten better and they’re curious about that. You can also reason there are probably a lot of people who don’t seek medical attention or get tested.” This has made it challenging to research olfactory disorders, and in this way, COVID-19 presents opportunity. “Here we are with a highly publicized pandemic and the lay community is very aware that loss of sense of smell can be a hallmark symptom, so we’ve got all these people who are going through it together. We took the opportunity to try and study the natural history because that really hasn’t been possible [previously] with the way patients present so sporadically and so after-the-fact.”

This is hopeful. And in the meantime, the ranks of AbScent members continue to swell. In March, Kelly launched a COVID-specific parosmia support group on Facebook. Currently, there are more than 5,000 members who all describe similar experiences: coffee tastes terrible; gin seems to be the only liquor that isn’t wretched; rotten, smokey, and chemical smells and tastes abound. Everyone feels alienated because their experience is so unrelatable and sounds so ridiculous to their friends and family. Everyone finds solace in the experiences of other group members. Not one person has reported that the parosmia has ended and their sense of smell is completely back to normal. But it’s still early. The longest stretches of anosmia and parosmia date back to March; smell disorders can resolve—but it often takes months or years. And with every post shared in the group and every bit of information gathered by AbScent and shared with researchers (with permission, of course), the future of helping those suffering from smell disorders gets brighter. In a group that thrives on shared experience, this is definitely meaningful.

The best hope currently, as COVID-related anosmics and parosmics patiently wait for more scientific findings to emerge, is something called smell training, which is essentially physical therapy for the neural pathways between brain and nose. “The olfactory neurons are somewhat unique in the nervous system, in that they have the capacity to regenerate,” says Dr. Reiter. “What can happen in some cases is as the neurons regenerate, the wiring may get crossed, if you will, and people get a distortion.” Smell training is the repeated exercising of these neural pathways to help them recover properly, whether someone has no smell, or one that seems to be misfiring. It is the only research-backed technique that’s shown symptomatic improvement for smell disorders.

And it’s a process. “We have to think about this olfactory nerve as an injury rather than a disease that can be cured,” says Kelly. “If you got into a car accident and you looked at yourself in the mirror and saw that you were covered in scars, you wouldn’t say, when are my scars going to go away.”

There are success stories within the olfactory community. Chrissi, herself, is one. And her experiences resonate within the ranks of AbScent members suffering from anosmia and parosmia. I smell train every day. I take out a collection of small glass jars that contain different essential oils in various scent categories: orange and lemon for fruit, rose for floral, eucalyptus for resin, and clove for spice. For about 10 seconds each, I smell them individually. I focus on how they smell, how they’re supposed to smell, and I imagine being able to eat anything I want in the future, with no fear of an unexpected, rotten flavor. A few days ago, as I was brushing my teeth before bed, the toothpaste tasted utterly, completely normal. It’s been five months since I originally lost my sense of smell, and every small win makes me more hopeful.

Healthy Pasta Recipes to Lose Weight

Pasta and weight loss simply don’t sound like two things that can go hand-in-hand. But here at Nutrisystem, we believe that transitioning to a healthier lifestyle should not have to mean giving up all of the things that you love—pasta included! Sometimes all it takes is just a little bit of creativity to devise pasta recipes that use healthy substitutions.

At your local grocery store, you can most likely find a large variety of healthy pasta swaps, such as spiralized veggies, whole wheat noodles, gluten free pasta and even spaghetti squash! We’ve rounded up 20 of our best (and simple) recipes that will give you your healthy pasta fix while still keeping you on track with your weight loss goals.

pasta and meatball skewers. healthy pasta recipes

If pasta and meatballs is one of your favorite comfort food combos, then you probably know how easy it is to overindulge on this classic dish. One heaping turns into two or more and soon you’ve eaten way too many servings. That’s what makes these skewers so great. It forces you to slow down and savor what you’re eating. That helps with portion control but also allows you to realize when you’re full. Oftentimes when we eat fast, we don’t give our stomach the chance to tell our brain that we’re satisfied!

cashew cream veggie pasta. healthy pasta recipes

This pasta meal gives you the decadence of a creamy dish but without the cheese. Instead, we prepare it with a homemade cashew cream sauce. If you’re trying to avoid dairy, this will be one of your go-to healthy pasta recipes. Filled with healthy fats and fiber, this dish also features vitamin-packed spinach and tomatoes to help you get your fill of daily veggies.

chicken a la king with healthy vegetables. healthy pasta recipes

This flavor-filled recipe has a little bit of everything by combining chicken, ziti and a variety of veggies all in one delicious dish. It’s colorful and nutritious with wholesome vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions and celery cooked in just a small amount of butter. If you’re someone who is tired of boring chicken dishes night after night, then this is a great way to jazz up your dinner.

no-bake french onion beef casserole

If you’re looking for comfort food that won’t totally derail your healthy eating plan, then this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Although most casseroles are made in the oven, this no-bake version is cooked on the stovetop. While the end result is creamy and decadent, a serving is a mere 326 calories. This is achieved with some healthy substitutions, such as using part skim mozzarella and light sour cream instead of the full fat versions. That means you’ll get your creamy pasta fix in a healthful way.

shrimp pasta with garlic asparagus

If you’re someone who thinks healthy shrimp pasta recipes are too difficult to make at home, this meal will change your tune. Shrimp dishes can be much simpler to whip up than you might imagine and are a great way to incorporate lean protein into your diet. This particular recipe also features asparagus, which is a great source of nutrients including fiber, folate and vitamins A, C and K. You’ll feel like you got a restaurant-quality meal but will know that it was a healthy choice—and you’ll be proud that you made it yourself.

shrimp fra diavolo with cilantro garnish

If you love spicy seafood dishes, then Shrimp Fra Diavolo might be a favorite. In this recipe, we’ve created a lighter version of this classic favorite. With antioxidant-packed tomatoes and the addition of some bell peppers and onions, it’s got plenty of veggies. But it’s the lean protein that shines in this dish! Shrimp is high in several vitamins and minerals while also serving as a rich source of protein.

sweet & savory spaghetti squash bowl with goat cheese. healthy pasta recipes

This recipe is a great choice if you’re looking for a pasta-like dinner without the pasta. Spaghetti squash makes an excellent noodle-alternative for your healthy pasta recipes because it’s low in calories and high in fiber. It’s one of our favorite foods here at Nutrisystem, thanks to being considered a non-starchy, unlimited veggie that is highly versatile. In this dish, we combine it with diced sweet potato, seasonings, honey and goat cheese for a decadent-tasting meal that’s good for you, too. One serving is just 288 calories.

zoodle mac and cheese with roasted veggies. healthy pasta recipes

This meal is a great way to get your pasta fix without the pasta by using spiralized zucchini (also known as zoodles). It features a lighter cheese sauce that’s made with reduced fat shredded cheese and some nonfat milk. Plus, it packs in a ton of roasted veggies for plenty of antioxidant goodness. With everything from broccoli and bell peppers to onions and sweet potatoes, this dish is chock-full of flavor and healthy fiber, too.

shrimp scampi with zucchini pasta

Shrimp scampi is often a restaurant favorite. However, it’s known for having lots of butter and being loaded with carb-heavy white pasta. Our version removes the butter and goes low-carb with healthy spiralized zucchini and just a handful of whole wheat spaghetti. But have no fear, all that flavor you love is still there. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthy twist.

instant pot pasta e fagioli soup. healthy pasta recipes

Besides being warm and comforting, particularly during colder months, soups are also fantastic for packing in the veggies. This soup does not disappoint! It has carrots, celery and tomatoes featured alongside hearty beans, lean ground chicken and just enough pasta to fulfill your craving without sending you into carb overload. A serving is hearty enough to count as a Flex Meal and won’t leave you feeling hungry after eating.

15-minute beef lo mein with cilantro as garnish. healthy pasta recipes

Nothing tops an easy-to-make meal that’s healthy, too. That is certainly the case for this tasty Beef Lo Mein dish that incorporates flank steak strips with lo mein noodles, healthy snow peas and carrots. It has all the flavor of take-out without the typical fat and calories associated with it. Plus, you’ll be able to whip it up a lot faster than calling for delivery.

spinach stuffed mussels & shrimp with cilantro as garnish. healthy pasta recipes

If you’re a seafood lover, then you’ll definitely want to add this recipe to your weekly lineup. It combines mussels and shrimp with cooked spinach, parmesan cheese and whole wheat spaghetti—all covered in a tomato garlic sauce that adds a major burst of flavor. It’s both delicious and nutritious, making it a win all around.

slow cooker turkey bolognese with spaghetti squash pasta. healthy pasta recipes

Pasta Bolognese is an Italian favorite—but the pasta and the red meat can also make it a heavy, calorie-packed and fat-filled dish. Our version is much lighter, swapping out pasta with spaghetti squash and the traditional mix of beef, veal and pork with lean ground turkey. Still packed with flavor, our healthier recipe also shines a spotlight on the veggies with peas, zucchini, onions and tomatoes sneaking their way in. It’s so full of flavor that you’ll forget it’s a healthy twist on a classic dish.

creamy spinach gnocchi. healthy pasta recipes

If you’re looking for the creamy goodness of pasta in cheese sauce but don’t want to wreak havoc on your weight loss regimen, then this dish has got you covered. It uses low-fat ricotta and parmesan cheese for a simple sauce that kicks up the flavor factor on some whole wheat gnocchi. Add in some vitamin-packed spinach and sundried tomatoes and it’s clear to see how this dish has it all.

healthy chicken piccata with cilantro as garnish. healthy pasta recipes

As yummy as classic chicken piccata may be, its downfall is in the heaps of butter it’s traditionally browned in. Typically served atop carb-loaded pasta, it’s easy to see how this dish can be a diet detour. But don’t worry—we’ve created a healthier version! This recipe eliminates the butter but adds in nonfat plain Greek yogurt to get that creamy texture. It still has plenty of flavor. Served over top of whole wheat pasta, it’s also got some hearty fiber.

baked vegetable lasagna. 

Our Vegetable Lasagna Bake is a great example of how you can have your favorite pasta recipes while still sticking to your healthy weight loss plan. This version packs in spinach and butternut squash, a low-calorie, fiber-rich winter veggie that adds a touch of sweetness. With just the right amount of low-fat cheeses, it’ll satisfy your lasagna longing without derailing your diet.

vegetarian meatballs with zucchini noodles. healthy pasta recipes

Whereas traditional meatballs are made from a combination of pork, beef and veal, our healthy vegetarian meatballs are made from brown lentils, mushrooms and oats. Still seasoned and baked to deliciousness, these meatballs are big on flavor—and fiber—while being low in fat and calories. Served atop zucchini noodles with no-sugar-added marinara sauce, it’s a great way to get your spaghetti and meatball fix in a healthful way.

slow cooked beef stroganoff. healthy pasta recipes

This classic meal has the same ingredients as the traditional version, including top round roast, beef broth, onions, mushrooms and noodles. However, some healthy substitutions help to make it lighter and healthier. Fortunately, it’s still so full of flavor that you would never notice the difference! It will give you that classic comfort that you crave from this hearty favorite.

sweet potato noodle bowl with creamy almond butter sauce. healthy pasta recipes

This noodle bowl replaces carb-laden noodles with healthy spiralized sweet potatoes. Add to that some lean cooked shrimp, antioxidant-packed spinach and a delicious, homemade almond butter sauce and you’ve got a tasty meal that won’t disappoint.

air fryer spaghetti squash lasagna

Spaghetti squash and lasagna unite in this healthy air fryer recipe that’s filled with Italian-inspired ingredients. Low sodium marinara sauce, part skim ricotta, mozzarella cheese, spinach and oregano are tossed with spaghetti squash noodles and stuffed back into the homemade squash “bowl.” It’s a healthy and simple meal that almost tastes too good to be true.

Boost Your Immune System

Your immune system is your defense against unwanted invaders, including viruses. It’s made up of organs, cells and proteins, all of which work in harmony to keep you healthy, says Medical News Today. With the rise of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, you might be more concerned than ever before in how your immune system is functioning. We’re here to help you ensure that it’s in top-working order. Our health and wellness experts here at The Leaf Weight Loss Blog have gathered some tips to help you boost your immune system so you can stay safe and healthy while practicing social distancing.

Here are some easy ways that you can boost your immune system while practicing social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic:

1. Catch Up on Sleep

How to Boost Immune System During Coronavirus

Sleep is such an essential piece of overall health and it can absolutely boost your immune system. Proteins that are needed to fight infection and inflammation are released during sleep, says Mayo Clinic. Getting enough good-quality sleep can strengthen your body’s overall immune response. Of course, truly restful sleep can be elusive during stressful times like a pandemic. Find ways that you can encourage sleep, such as avoiding caffeine after lunch or even trying yoga before bedtime.

2. Relieve Your Stress

How to Boost Immune System During Coronavirus

Have you ever been really stressed out, sad or lonely and then gotten sick on top of it? It’s not a coincidence. Attitude can have a powerful impact on our health. During stressful times, it can take a serious toll. Unfortunately, when we’re stressed, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens can be reduced. “Chronic stress can suppress the response of the immune system and its ability to fight disease; therefore, reducing stress may help to prevent infections and other disorders,” says Medical News Today.

As scary as things may be during the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s more important now than ever to attempt to reduce feelings of stress and worry. Try starting your day off with positive thoughts, relaxing meditation and trying to be mindful about what you allow yourself to spend time thinking about while you are home in self isolation. If social media is frequently causing you to spiral into negative thoughts, limit your exposure. You can also try these breathing techniques to help reduce stress levels.

3. Do Some Home Workouts

home workouts

You already know that physical activity is essential in your weight loss journey. However, it has so many other wonderful benefits—including boosting your immune system during cold and flu season as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. According to MedlinePlus, “Physical activity may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways.” Regular exercise can also promote optimal circulation that allows cells of the immune system to reach all parts of the body, says Medical News Today.

While your gym may be closed because of your state’s “stay-at-home” order during the Coronavirus, there are still plenty of ways to fit in daily exercise at home while you’re in quarantine. Going for regular walks or finding at-home exercise classes (through a computer, smart phone or television) are simple ways to keep moving. The Fitness section here at The Leaf is filled with easy ideas! An added benefit is that exercise is thought to reduce stress, too.

4. Limit Alcohol Intake

How to Boost Immune System During Coronavirus

Frequent alcohol consumption is thought to be associated with a weakened immune system. This is due to the fact that alcohol alters the makeup of your gut microbiome and impacts its ability to support your immune system. According to Healthline, “alcohol can trigger inflammation in the gut and destroy the microorganisms that live in the intestine and maintain immune system health.” It’s also suspected that alcohol can damage the immune cells that line the lungs and serve as the first line of defense against bacteria and viruses.

5. Wash Your Hands

proper hand washing tips

You’ve probably never heard or thought as much about washing your hands as you have in recent months during the Coronavirus pandemic. However, correct handwashing has always been one of the best ways to keep your immune system healthy and protect yourself from the spread of infectious diseases and illness. We spoke directly to a doctor to get the proper steps for handwashing. Click here to learn more. >

6. Eat a Healthy Diet

healthy diet tips

If you’re on Nutrisystem, you already know that eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is essential when it comes to your plans to lose weight (or maintain a healthy weight). But a healthy diet also helps to boost your immune system. Providing your body with nutrition literally provides it with the power to fight illness, says Medical News Today. This should include a diet that is rich in many fruits and vegetables which provide you with antioxidant power. Specifically, foods rich in vitamin C have long been thought to boost immunity. While your grandmother or mother may have told you to drink your orange juice for that very reason, the truth is, juice is high in sugar. Instead, get your vitamin C from whole food sources like broccoli, kiwi, red bell peppers or whole oranges.

Looking for healthy recipes to cook up while you’re at home? Check out our recipe section! > You can also avoid extra trips to the grocery store while social distancing by getting healthy meals delivered to your door. While this can be extremely hard with restaurant takeout, a home delivery service like Nutrisystem makes healthy eating easy, convenient and delicious.

7. Stop Smoking

How to Boost Immune System During Coronavirus

Though it may be harder to quit smoking during times of stress, continuing to light up can have a detrimental impact on your immune system. According to the Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking and Health, “Smoking harms the immune system and can make the body less successful at fighting disease.” Smokers often have a more difficult time recovering from everyday illnesses than nonsmokers. Viral and bacterial infections of the lungs can also be made worse by smoking, says the Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking and Health.

8. Drink More Water

How to Boost Immune System During Coronavirus

Staying well-hydrated is always important but it may also play an important role in building and maintaining a healthy immune system. According to Medical News Today, “the mouth and throat are on the front lines of the body’s defenses, but they cannot do their job as well as usual when a person is dehydrated.” Of course, fitting in all those glasses a day can feel daunting. Fortunately, there are some simple hacks that can help you drink more water and remain your healthiest.

9. Create a Healthy Household

How to Boost Immune System During Coronavirus

Though many people are currently staying at home social distancing in an effort to avoid germs in public, you also want to make sure that your household stays healthy, too. According to Jigsaw Health, “Household mold is a hidden invader that can weaken the immune system and cause respiratory illness, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and other diseases.” They also explain that bacteria from certain foods can lead to food-borne illness that weakens the immune system. Keep your home clean and safe by properly handling raw food, cleaning surfaces and being aware of lurking germs. Even simple steps can go a long way in protecting your immune system. Check out these spring cleaning tips to help keep you and your family healthy at home while giving you the chance to burn some extra calories!

10. Get Some Sunshine

How to Boost Immune System During Coronavirus

Spending some time outdoors in the sun allows your body to produce vitamin D. According to research, published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine, “Deficiency in vitamin D is associated with increased autoimmunity as well as an increased susceptibility to infection.” We don’t need any excuse to grab our favorite book and lay outside! Head to the backyard and play some games with the kids, take your dog for a walk or go for a hike in the woods. Enjoy the warm weather and let the sunshine work its magic.

Simple Ways to Shed Extra Pounds | Phentermine Pills

For many, losing weight seems to be an uphill battle. Yet there are many ways to streamline the weight loss process and drop unwanted pounds quickly and easily. If you recently started taking Phentermine 37.5mg for quick weight loss, review easy ways to tweak your new regimen. 

Enlarge” Your Food

Try arranging the food on your plate so it appears bigger than it is. 

“You can make less look like more,” says Leslie Bonci, MPH, RDN, CSSD, LDN. “Easy ways include shredding your cheese, having thinly shaved lunchmeat, and cutting meat and poultry in half horizontally.”

Brush Your Teeth After Dinner

Post-dinner brushing is helpful; however, wait about 20 minutes after you eat to brush your teeth so you aren’t rubbing acids into tooth enamel. 

“Brush your teeth right after dinner,” suggests wellness coach Kiersky Schreiber. “This could prevent you from eating hundreds of extra calories, because it’s unlikely you’ll want to have to brush your teeth again.”

Review Restaurant Menus Before You Leave

See what establishment menus offer prior to leaving the house. It avoids a calorie fest. 

“I always look up the menu before I eat out,” says wellness coach Britt Epley. “I do this so I can get a good idea of portion sizes and meals that fit the best in my current plan, and so I can craft an option that works for me. Otherwise, I show up and just get what’s easiest and that option is usually not the most healthy. Sometimes though, I do lean into my cravings and treat myself, and that’s okay. It helps me from not binging as often on unhealthy foods.”

Use a Salad Plate

Try working with a smaller plate!

“Use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate,” advises personal trainer Saara Haapanen. “Sometimes, just seeing a full plate tricks our mind.”

For more about Phentermine pills and fast weight loss, please contact DrToHelp.com today. dr james kojian

About the Author

Dr. James Kojian M.D. has had extensive training in weight loss, hormone replacement treatments, anti-aging medicine, and has many med spas and weight loss clinics in California.

Dr. Kojian went to Medical School at the University of Illinois and trained at White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles. He now teaches patients how to eat to lower their hunger, helps them correct deficiencies in their blood tests to boost their metabolism, and shows patients the best exercises to burn fat and tone muscle.

Dr. Kojian has been on T.V. and the news many times in Los Angeles as well in Dubai and the middle east, and is considered a leading expert in weight loss and health.

Lose Fat Eating These Superfoods

Superfoods have earned their stellar reputation as superstars of the food world by being nutritionally dense and rich in nutrients. But what if those foods could help you to lose weight and belly fat in addition to delivering their powerful nutritional benefits? The good news is that many of them do!

Here are 10 superfoods to add to your diet for their nutritional and weight loss benefits:

1. Jalapeno Peppers

lose fat healthy superfoods for weight loss

Jalapeno peppers are rich in minerals and nutrients, making them a surprising superfood that many people don’t think of. It’s the alkaloid capsaicin in jalapenos that gives them their spicy flavor and is also responsible for their potential weight loss benefits. According to Bioscience Reports, capsaicin is correlated with a decreased risk of obesity. It’s been shown to increase fat oxidation and energy expenditure in study subjects. If you love all things spicy, then jalapenos will be a welcomed superfood to try.

Whip up these Jalapeno Poppers for a fun snack to attack cravings. Learn five more surprising benefits of spicy food here! >

2. Salmon

salmon healthy superfood for weight loss

Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, salmon’s nutritional benefits help make it a superfood. Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk of cardiac problems. Eating salmon regularly may also help speed up weight loss for men, according to a study in the International Journal of Obesity. Many salmon recipes also happen to be relatively low in calories, making it a lean option that can be prepared in many delicious ways. Check out these mouthwatering salmon recipes. >

3. Spinach

lose fat healthy superfoods for weight loss

Loaded with nutrients, dark leafy greens like spinach provide essential vitamins for to skin, bone and immune system health benefits, says Healthline. Spinach is also incredibly nutrient dense. A cup of raw spinach has just seven calories but provides more than 56 percent of your recommended daily allowance for vitamin A and all of your daily vitamin K, says Healthline. On top of all that, researchers at Lund University in Sweden found that spinach boosted weight loss by 43 percent and reduced food cravings by up to 95 percent. This Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken recipe is an easy way to fit spinach into a Flex meal.

4. Pomegranate

lose fat healthy superfoods for weight loss

Pomegranates are rich in vitamin C, potassium and fiber and are thought to help with heart disease and cancer prevention, says Healthline. While there’s a lot of focus on pomegranate juice—which does have more antioxidants than individual seeds—eating the seeds whole gives you the benefit of fiber and added vitamins and minerals. Fiber can help keep you full longer and support weight loss. A study, published in Food and Chemical Toxicology, found that giving obese and insulin resistant mice pomegranate seed oil for 12 weeks decreased body weight, body fat and improved peripheral insulin sensitivity.

Embrace those pomegranate benefits! There are some really great ways to fit pomegranates into your day. Get inspired by these delicious recipes. >

5. Almonds

almonds healthy superfood for weight loss

With lots of nutrients delivered with a satisfying crunch, almonds make a “superfood snack” or a great addition to meals. They can easily be tossed into salads, cereals and yogurt or incorporated into cooking. A study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, found a link between daily almond consumption and weight loss—specifically belly fat. On the Nutrisystem plan, almonds are a PowerFuel, which are foods that offer high-quality proteins while also containing essential amino acids and healthy fats.

6. Flax Seeds

lose fat healthy superfoods

Flax seeds are a nutrient-dense and fiber-rich “superseed.” Flax seed recipes are usually easy to make and are packed with superfood benefits. They can be tossed into a variety of dishes to ramp up their nutrition power. Flax seed also contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, says Healthline. This helps to ensure healthy and gradual digestion that keeps you fuller longer. It is this digestive superpower that is likely to help assist with weight loss.

7. Blueberries

lose fat healthy superfoods

While most berries are good for you and can be considered superfoods, blueberries are said to be one of the best, particularly when it comes to their ability to help you lose stubborn belly fat. According to the University of Michigan, research shows that blueberries may help to burn belly fat because of their high antioxidant content.

While blueberries are tasty to eat on their own, there are also many great ways to cook or bake with them to increase your consumption. The naturally sweet goodness of blueberries makes them a healthy alternative to many sugar-laden desserts—a common healthy diet downfall. Be sure to check out these 10 reasons you need to eat more fruit like blueberries! >

8. Avocado

avocado healthy superfood

Here at The Leaf, we love avocados! Avocados are rich in potassium as well as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are “healthy fats” essential to a weight loss plan. That’s because your body needs fat to help you feel full and satisfied after eating, to provide quick-burning energy and to aid in the absorption of vitamins and minerals that you consume. As a “whole food” source of healthy fat, avocados have that power. People who regularly eat avocados have significantly lower body weight, BMI (body mass index), and waist circumference, and higher HDL (good cholesterol levels) than people who don’t eat the fruit, according to a study published in Nutrition Journal.

There are many great ways to use avocado that you may never have thought of. It can be a healthy substitute for mayo, a topping for salads, a baking ingredient for cookies or brownies and even a base for pudding. It’s creamy texture and versatile nature help it to shine as a superfood to help you lose fat. Here are more superfood facts about avocados! >

9. Black Beans

lose fat healthy superfoods

Black beans are packed with potent plant-based nutrients that are believed to help protect against cancer, says Medical News Today. They’re also an inexpensive and easy-to-cook-with food that can be incorporated into many different dishes. For those looking to drop some pounds and lose fat, some of the best news is that consuming beans was linked to “reduced body fat percentage” in a study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Another study, published in BMC Proceedings, shows that certain compounds in the beans might help to strengthen the body’s insulin resistance and protect against obesity.

10. Apples

lose fat healthy superfoods

As the saying goes, an apple a day keeps the doctor away. But what if it could keep the pounds away, too? Apples are rich in weight-loss-friendly fiber and help slow the digestion of food. This helps you to feel fuller with fewer calories. For these reasons, they can definitely play a vital role in your efforts to lose fat.

Apples are one of the most versatile fruits, with so many different ways to cook and prepare them. Try them out in this unique Instant Pot Apple Cake. Of course, apples are also delicious and nutritious all on their own or sliced with peanut butter.

Citrus Immunity Shot

This super-simple-to-prepare, this Citrus Immunity Shot recipe is made with immune-boosting citrus, turmeric, and garlic, a delicious way to start your day!

This super-simple-to-prepare Citrus Immunity Shot is made with immune-boosting citrus, turmeric, and garlic, a delicious way to start your day!
Citrus Immunity Shot

This wellness shot recipe nourishes, fuels and aids your body in the morning and it’s so easy to make. If you’ve ever purchased immunity shots in the store, you will know how expensive they are. Making them from scratch saves money!

Citrus Immunity Shot ingredients

Hi Everyone, I’m Heather K. Jones. I’m a dietitian and the nutrition expert for the Skinnytaste cookbooks (so excited that book five, Skinnytaste Meal Prep, is out now!). I also work with women who struggle with emotional eating, and during this VERY emotional time on the planet. Understanding how your emotions influence your health and wellbeing is more critical than ever.

Without the inner tools to stay centered, we can easily become overwhelmed and drained, and then use food in an unconscious attempt to feel safe, to create a false sense of control, or to soothe or suppress uncomfortable emotions.

So, if your eating is especially unbalanced right now, be gentle with yourself and recognize this is an INVITATION to start understanding yourself and your life in a much deeper way.

Creating soulful, practical routines that support your mental, emotional and physical health will not only naturally boost your immunity and reduce stress eating, it will alsore-connect you with the healing and strengthening power of your own heart. You’ll remember just how capable, resilient and powerful you truly are!

Know too that when you take care of yourself and prioritize your health, this also provides you with the energy to support others from a grounded place.

And I have a ton of FREE resources, articles and videos to help you Love Yourself Healthy RIGHT HERE, including this powerful 30-day Master the Weight Loss Mindset Challenge.

Thursday September 24th at 12 PM ET, I’ll be providing emotional eating support and guidance in a FREE group coaching session inside my Feel Better Eat Better Facebook group RIGHT HERE.

Your body is an amazing, self-healing machine! Every minute of every day it’s working to keep you healthy and alive, and one of the best ways to support your body and boost your immunity is to fuel it with nutrient-rich foods.

Plants are your best source of fiber, vitamins and minerals. This super-simple-to-prepare Citrus Immunity Shot from my dietitian friend Danielle Omar, is a delicious way to supplement your day.

Citrus Immunity Shot Recipe

Immunity Shot Ingredients and Benefits

The phytonutrients in plants are very beneficial, especially when it comes to helping your body’s natural detoxification systems and boosting your immune system. Here’s how each of the ingredients in this Immunity Shot nourishes, fuels and aids your body:

  • Grapefruit: Rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A, two powerful vitamins that benefit immunity.
  • Lemon: A good source of Vitamin C, providing antiviral and antibacterial properties.
  • Orange: Also high in Vitamin C and it’s high in beta-cryptoxanthin, a carotenoid that your body converts into Vitamin A.
  • Ginger: Contains gingerol, which can help lower the risk of infections and inhibit the growth of many different types of bacteria.
  • Turmeric: Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is a powerful anti-inflammatory and a very strong antioxidant.
  • Black Pepper: When you add a little black pepper to your turmeric, and you increase the absorption of curcumin by almost 2000%!
  • Garlic: Enhances immune function and it contains sulphur compounds that get into the body through digestion and exert many medicinal effects.

Make a fresh batch at least once a week – have one shot in the morning and another later on to boost your afternoon! For an added boost of Vitamin C, throw in a red pepper and some fresh lime juice for a different flavor.

Citrus Immunity Shot ingredients in a blender
Citrus Immunity Shot
Citrus Immunity Shots

Citrus Immunity Shot

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 0 mins

Total Time: 10 mins

This super-simple-to-prepare Citrus Immunity Shot is made with immune-boosting citrus, turmeric, and garlic, a delicious way to start your day!

  • 1 medium grapefruit, peeled
  • 1 medium orange
  • ½ medium lemon
  • 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger root, peeled
  • 1 1-inch piece fresh turmeric root, peeled
  • ½ clove garlic
  • Pinch freshly ground black pepper
  • In a blender, combine (whole) grapefruit, juice from the orange and lemon, ginger, turmeric, garlic and pepper. Blend until smooth (adjusting ingredients to taste, if necessary).
  • Place a small sieve or strainer over a mason jar or glass cup. .
  • Pour liquid into strainer and serve immediately or store in refrigerator for up to 4 days

Serving: 1shot, Calories: 154kcal, Carbohydrates: 37g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 1g, Sodium: 4mg, Fiber: 4.5g, Sugar: 26g

Blue Smart Points: 2

Green Smart Points: 2

Purple Smart Points: 2

Keywords: citrus shots, immune shot, immunity shots, wellness shots

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon is super easy, baked on a sheet pan with a simple glaze made with sweet red chili sauce, sriracha, and ginger.

Sweet and Spicy Baked Salmon with rice and bok choy.
Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon

Salmon is my favorite fish, which I am sure you can tell as I have tons of salmon recipes. Some favorites are Basil-Parmesan Salmon, Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Soy Glaze, and Asian Salmon Bowls. This sweet and spicy version may be added to my new list of favorites! It’s simple (only five ingredients) and delicious.

brushing glaze on salmon

Guys I love salmon, but it’s pretty hard for me to choose a favorite recipe, since I have so many. When I tested this recipe, I instantly fell in love! The easy homemade salmon glaze packs so much flavor with just three ingredients. The sweet red chili glaze adds sweetness and caramelization, the sriracha adds a little heat, and the ginger gives it a warm, pungent flavor.

Why is salmon good for you?

Salmon is a very healthy and nutritious fish. It’s full of omega-3 fatty acids, which help decrease blood pressure and inflammation. Omega-3s are “essential” fats, meaning your body can’t make them, so you have to get them from foods in your diet. Salmon is also high in protein, vitamins B12 and D, selenium, and potassium.

How to Cook Salmon Fillets

This healthy baked salmon recipe is so easy to make. I cook these sweet and spicy salmon fillets in the oven at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes. The  salmon is done when the inside turns semi-opaque, and it flakes easily. If you wanted to make cleanup even quicker, line the sheet pan with foil.

What to Serve with Glazed Salmon

This baked salmon would be wonderful with roasted veggies, like asparagus or brussels sprouts and butternut squash, as a side. You could even double the salmon sauce and pour it on the vegetables. Here are some more side dish ideas:

Sweet and Spicy Baked Salmon
cooked salmon on a sheet pan

More Salmon Recipes You’ll Love:

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 15 mins

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon is super easy, baked on a sheet pan with a simple glaze made with sweet red chili sauce, sriracha, and ginger.

  • 1 pound wild salmon filets, cut in 4 pieces
  • kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup sweet red chili sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
  • sliced scallions, for garnish
  • Preheat oven to 400F. Spray a sheet pan with olive oil and set aside.
  • Place salmon on the sheet pan and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • In a small bowl combine red chili sauce sauce, sriracha and ginger. Brush over the salmon.
  • Roast in the oven 400F 8 to 10 minutes. Garnish with scallions.

Serving: 3oz salmon, Calories: 202kcal, Carbohydrates: 6.5g, Protein: 22.5g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 62.5mg, Sodium: 214.5mg, Sugar: 6.5g

Blue Smart Points: 1

Green Smart Points: 4

Purple Smart Points: 1

Keywords: asian salmon, glazed salmon, salmon

Detox Vegetable Soup (Vegan and Dairy-free)

This dairy-free, creamy Detox Vegetable Soup is not only easy to make, it’s also LOADED with nutrient-rich goodness!

Close up of detox vegetable soup in a bowl.
Detox Vegetable Soup

It’s made with two heads of broccoli, lentils, cashews, onions, carrots, celery and spinach—it’s the perfect way to boost your immunity and to detox from any quarantine stress-eating. For a lentil free detox soup, you may also like this Green Detox Soup with Toasted Hemp Gremolata.

Pouring cashew milk into a pot of cooked vegetables.

Hello, I’m Heather K. Jones! I’m a dietitian, the nutrition expert for the Skinnytaste cookbooks (so excited that book five, Skinnytaste Meal Prep, is out now!), and the founder of Feel Better Eat Better, an online weight and wellness program for women who struggle with emotional eating, overeating or body image issues.

And during this challenging time I’m offering FREE emotional eating support and guidance twice a month (the first and third Wednesday of each month) inside my Feel Better Eat Better Facebook group RIGHT HERE.

So, if you could use some extra love and support, please join me! I also have a ton of FREE resources, articles and videos to help you Love Yourself Healthy RIGHT HERE.

Do you love soup season as much as I do!?

A dietitian friend of mine shared this clean and comforting veggie soup recipe with me last year. ff you’ve been over-indulging or stress eating during quarantine, this soup is the perfect way to help you get back on track!

Cashew cream (cashews pureed with water) is blended with immune-boosting broccoli, lentils, cashews, onions, carrots, celery and spinach. This results in the healthiest and most delicious and creamy soup ever! It’s also vegan and gluten-free.

Drizzle a bowl with a bit of olive oil and serve with a big green salad or a piece of whole grain bread. Trust me, you feel so nourished and wholesome, you’ll be inspired to make other good-for-you lifestyle changes too!

Close up of detox vegetable soup in a bowl.
cooking Detox Vegetable Soup

More Soup Recipes You Will Love

Detox Vegetable Soup

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

This dairy-free creamy Detox Vegetable Soup is not only easy to make, it’s also LOADED with nutrient-rich goodness!

  • 1 sweet onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 3 stalks celery, chopped
  • 5 cups chopped broccoli, florets and stalks
  • 7 cups water, divided
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup raw cashews
  • 2 cups cooked green lentils
  • 2 cups packed baby spinach
  • Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
  • Ground pepper, optional
  • Place the onion, carrot, celery and broccoli in a large pot. Add 6 cups water, basil and salt to the pot and stir. Bring to a boil over high heat then cover and reduce heat to a low simmer.
  • Let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
  • Meanwhile, in a blender, create your cashew cream. Blend together the cashews and remaining 1 cup water. (If you adjust the serving size, just keep the cashew to water ratio 1:1.)
  • Pour the cashew cream into the pot with the veggies and stir.
  • Add the green lentils and stir again.
  • Add the spinach to the blender, and carefully (let the pot of veggies cool a bit first!) blend the soup in batches until smooth.
  • Ladle into bowls, drizzle lightly with olive oil and top with freshly ground pepper, if desired. Enjoy!

To store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days.

Serving: 11/2 cups, Calories: 293kcal, Carbohydrates: 34g, Protein: 15g, Fat: 12.5g, Saturated Fat: 2.5g, Sodium: 646mg, Fiber: 11g, Sugar: 7g

Blue Smart Points: 5

Green Smart Points: 7

Purple Smart Points: 5

Keywords: detox soup, green soup, vegan soup, vegetarian detox soup

Vegetarian Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls

Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls are one of the tastiest ways to enjoy kale! They are quick, easy and perfectly portioned.

Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls
Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls

These rolls are a deliciously cheesy meatless meal that is sure to be a hit in your house. The individual rolls help keep portion sizes in check. One roll served with a salad makes the perfect meal. They’re great to freeze too. A few lasagna roll variations I love are these Spinach Lasagna Rolls, Three Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls, and Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna Rolls. See more vegetarian recipes like this.

Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls in a baking pan.

How to Freeze Lasagna Rolls:

These mushroom lasagna rolls are perfect for freezing and then pulling out on a night when you don’t have time to cook. You can freeze these two different ways:

  1. Individually Frozen Lasagna Roll Ups

After rolling up the noodles, put them on a baking tray to flash freeze. Once frozen, put in a zip-locked bag. To bake, put however many rolls you’d like into a baking dish with sauce on the bottom. Spoon more sauce over the noodles and top each with one tablespoon of mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for one hour.

  1. Lasagna Roll Ups Frozen in a Casserole Dish

Freeze all the rolls in a baking dish covered with foil. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator for 36-48 hours and then follow the baking directions as written. You can also bake these from frozen but will need to increase the baking time to one hour.

Lasagna Roll Up Variations and Tips:

  • Sub spinach for the kale.
  • You can chop up the mushrooms with the kale in the food processor if you prefer.
  • I recommend covering the dish with foil while baking so that the lasagna rolls don’t get crispy. To prevent the foil from sticking, tent the foil over the baking dish so that it’s not touching the noodles. You can also spray the foil with baking spray or lay parchment paper over the rolls and then cover with foil.
Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls
Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls with a fork.

More Lasagna Recipes You’ll Love:

Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls

Prep Time: 30 mins

Cook Time: 40 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins

Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls are one of the tastiest ways to enjoy kale! They are quick, easy and perfectly portioned.

  • 10 9 oz dry lasagna noodles, cooked
  • 2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 5 cups kale, stems removed, chopped fine
  • 8 oz mushrooms, chopped fine
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 15 oz part skim ricotta cheese, I like Polly-o
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, whisked
  • salt and fresh pepper
  • 3 oz 10 tbsp part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Preheat oven to 350F.
  • Ladle about 1 cup sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 12 baking dish.
  • Place kale in a food processor and pulse a few times until chopped.
  • In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until golden, about a minute. Add kale, salt and pepper and sauté about 5 minutes.
  • Add mushrooms to the pan, cook until soft, an additional 5-6 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Combine cooked kale, mushrooms, ricotta, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Place a piece of wax paper on the counter and lay out cooked lasagna noodles. Make sure noodles are dry.
  • Take 1/3 cup of mushroom kale mixture and spread evenly over noodle. Roll carefully and place seam side down onto the baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles.
  • Ladle 1 cup of sauce over the noodles in the baking dish and top each one with 1 tbsp mozzarella cheese. Put foil over baking dish and bake for 40 minutes, until cheese melts.
  • Makes 10 rolls. Serve with extra sauce on the side.

Serving: 1roll, Calories: 258kcal, Carbohydrates: 30.5g, Protein: 11.5g, Fat: 8.4g, Saturated Fat: 6.5g, Cholesterol: 41mg, Sodium: 208mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 2g

Blue Smart Points: 6

Green Smart Points: 7

Purple Smart Points: 6

Points +: 6

Keywords: easy lasagna, lasagna roll ups, Mushroom Kale Lasagna Rolls, spinach lasagna rolls, Vegetarian Lasagna

posted by Seny

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Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brine Turkey

This Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brined Turkey comes out so moist and flavorful, with crispy golden skin and juicy tender meat.

This Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brined Turkey comes out so moist and flavorful, with crispy golden skin and juicy tender meat.
Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brine Turkey

Want an easy turkey recipe that’s moist and flavorful? Try dry brining! Rather than wet brining a turkey, dry brining is so much easier and less messy!

This Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brined Turkey comes out so moist and flavorful, with crispy golden skin and juicy tender meat.
Making a turkey in a Wolf oven

It feels like we’ve been remodeling our new home forever, but this week I finally got to cook in my new kitchen and put my new Wolf M series double oven to the test. Needless to say, I am IN LOVE!! I went big for the first time and cooked a whole 16-pound turkey as a test run for Thanksgiving along with a few side dishes. Using this oven was everything I imagined and more!

I am not completely moved in yet, but I promise I will do a final home and kitchen reveal soon. When I was designing my kitchen, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances were my only must. As a home cook and cookbook author, having a kitchen with professional-grade appliances has always been a dream of mine, so it’s exciting to finally be able to use them first-hand.

The oven has a variety of programmed cooking modes, but for this particular recipe, I tried the Convection Roast mode which cooked the turkey in a fraction of the time! (I tested this recipe both in my old oven on conventional roast and my new Wolf oven on convection roast to see how they compared). What’s more, it’s the most spacious oven I’ve ever had (it’s actually Wolf’s largest capacity oven), so between the two of them I’m able to fit more dishes at the same time than ever before.

But the feature I think I loved best for making a turkey was the temperature probe. It takes the guesswork out of knowing if the turkey is ready and you can even download an app on your phone to monitor the meat’s cooking progress without having to open the oven door! To use the probe, I simply inserted it into the turkey thigh right between the leg and the thigh away from the bone and set the temperature to 170F. Once the turkey hit the correct temperature, it notified me it was ready. No guessing! I let it rest 30 minutes which brought the temp up a little more. The turkey was so moist and juicy, the skin so crisp and flavorful, this is how I will be making my turkey for years to come!

Making a turkey in a Wolf oven.

Choosing the right size Thanksgiving turkey

A good rule of thumb is to estimate at least 1 lb to 1 1/2 lbs per person so you’ll have extra and enough for leftovers.

Fresh or Frozen?

Fresh – One of the pros of using a fresh bird is there’s no need to thaw. A fresh bird will keep for 4 days in the fridge. Some people think it’s more flavorful than a frozen bird.

Frozen – Typically more affordable and can be purchased weeks in advance. It does however require thawing time.

Defrosting a turkey

Fridge – if you have more time, allow the turkey to thaw in the fridge in it’s original packaging. Allow 24 hours of thawing for every 5 lbs of bird.

Cold Water Bath – If you’re short on time, submerge the bird in a cold water bath changing the water every 30 minutes. Allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound of bird.

What is a dry brine?

A dry brine is an herb and salt rub applied directly to the turkey. This creates satiny leg meat and juicy, perfectly seasoned breast meat. Air-drying the turkey on the last day of the 4-day process will make the skin crisp when roasted.

How much salt should I use?

This recipe can be adapted to turkeys of all sizes. Use 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 pounds. Diamond Crystal salt is best, Morton’s has more sodium and will be saltier. If using Morton’s, you will have to adjust and use less.

Storing

Leftovers should be put away when you’re done serving. Store leftover meat and the turkey carcass for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

This Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brined Turkey comes out so moist and flavorful, with crispy golden skin and juicy tender meat.
How to dry brine a turkey
This Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brined Turkey comes out so moist and flavorful, with crispy golden skin and juicy tender meat.
This Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brined Turkey comes out so moist and flavorful, with crispy golden skin and juicy tender meat.

Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brine Turkey

Prep Time: 1 hr

Cook Time: 2 hrs

Brine Time: 4 d

This Herb and Salt-Rubbed Dry Brined Turkey comes out so moist and flavorful, with crispy golden skin and juicy tender meat.

  • 2 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
  • 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • One thawed or fresh 16-lb turkey, preferably fresh (not kosher or self-basting) if frozen, thaw before
  • 1/4 cup Diamond Crystal, use less with Mortons

4-Day Dry Brine:

  • (4) Four days before you plan to roast the turkey, mix the herbs and oil in a small bowl. Loosen the skin around the shoulders of the bird and around the cavity. Carefully slide your hands underneath the skin to loosen it from the breast, thighs, and drumsticks.
  • Rub the herb mixture on the meat, under the skin. Pat the skin back into place.
  • Rub the salt inside the cavity and on the skin. Tuck the wing tips behind the neck and tie the legs together with kitchen string. Put the turkey in a large food-safe plastic bag (such as a turkey-size roasting bag) and tie. Put the bag inside a second bag and tie.
  • Day 1 to 3: Refrigerate the turkey, turning it over every day, for 3 days.
  • Day 4: Remove the turkey from the bags and pat dry. Transfer to a large roasting pan and refrigerate, unwrapped, to let the turkey air-dry overnight (for the fourth day).

Roast the turkey (Day 5):

Convection Roast Mode:

  • Position a rack in the bottom third of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F in convection roast setting. If using a probe, insert the thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh not touching the bone and set the temp to 170F. Roast until the temp registers 170°F in the thickest part of a thigh, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or longer depending on the size of the turkey. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to settle.

Conventional Oven:

  • Position a rack in the bottom third of the oven and preheat the oven to 425°F. Roast the turkey for 1 hour, then reduce the heat to 325°F.
  • Continue to roast until an instant-read thermometer registers 170°F in the thickest part of a thigh, about 1 3/4 to 2 hours. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to settle.

Nutrition is based on turkey breast no skin.

Serving: 6oz turkey breast no skin, Calories: 225kcal, Protein: 45.5g, Fat: 3.5g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 121mg, Sodium: 896.5mg

Blue Smart Points: 0

Green Smart Points: 2

Purple Smart Points: 0

Keywords: dry brine turkey, dry brined turkey, herb and salt rubbed turkey, how to dry brine a turkey

Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale (Vegan)

Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale is comforting and nutrient-dense, thanks to the butternut squash, lentils, kale, and leeks.

Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale
Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale

This vegetarian butternut squash lentil soup is like a bowl of comfort – the perfect way to warm up on a cold night. This colorful soup, made with healthy ingredients, tastes delicious. The cooked leeks give complexity to the body of the soup. For even more lentil soup recipes, try my Lebanese Lentil Soup, Red Lentil Soup with Spinach, and Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup.

Butternut Lentil Soup

This soup is also dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan. It’s all made in one pot and freezes great. Leftovers are perfect for lunch.

Do lentils need to be soaked?

No, lentils do not need to be soaked like beans do, which saves a lot of time.

Are you supposed to peel butternut squash before cooking?

Yes, it’s best to peel butternut squash before cooking since the skin can be very tough. If you’re short on time, buy your butternut squash peeled and pre-cut from the supermarket.

How to Freeze Lentil Soup:

This butternut squash, kale, and lentil soup is great for meal prep. It freezes wonderfully, so you can save it for dinner on a night when you don’t have time to cook. Freeze the soup in glass food containers or in zip-locked bags laid flat in your freezer for up to three months.

Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If you forget to thaw the night before, you can microwave the frozen soup in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval.

Lentil Soup Variations:

  • Sub sweet potato for the butternut squash if you prefer.
  • Feel free to use curly kale if you can’t find Lacinato kale, also known as Tuscan kale. You can also switch the kale for another leafy green like spinach or Swiss chard.
Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale with a spoon
Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale

More Lentil Recipes You’ll Love:

Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 50 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins

Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale is comforting and nutrient-dense, thanks to the butternut squash, lentils, kale, and leeks.

  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 2 leeks, white part only, cleaned and chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 pound peeled and diced butternut, 1/2-inch dice
  • 2 ounces lentils
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • black pepper
  • 3 cups packed chopped lacinato kale, stems removed
  • Heat a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • When hot, add oil, then add onion, carrots, leeks and celery, reduce heat and cook about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring.
  • Add the tomato paste and cook 2 minutes, stirring.
  • Add the broth and lentils and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat, cover and simmer until halfway cooked, 20 minutes.
  • Add the butternut and cook until tender, about 15 minutes more. Discard the bay leaves, season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Add the kale and cook 7 minutes longer until the kale is tender.

To Freeze: Let the soup cool then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Keep frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, transfer to the refrigerator the night before then reheat on the stove or microwave.

Serving: 11/3 cups, Calories: 122kcal, Carbohydrates: 25g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 1.5g, Saturated Fat: 0.5g, Sodium: 309.5mg, Fiber: 7g, Sugar: 8g

Blue Smart Points: 1

Green Smart Points: 2

Purple Smart Points: 1

Keywords: lentil soup, lentil soup with butternut, vegan lentil soup, vegetarian lentil soup

Roasted Radishes with Onions ( Easy Low Carb Side Dish)

If you don’t love raw radishes, this 5-ingredient recipe for Roasted Radishes and Onions recipe will definitely change your mind!

roasted radishes
Roasted Radishes

This roasted radishes recipe couldn’t be simpler. It only has five ingredients, after all – three of which are pantry staples. I also tried them with shallots in place of onions and they were lovely. If you’d like to get fancy, feel free to season the radishes and onions with dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. See more side dish recipes here!

Roasted Radishes in a skillet

Believe it or not, this was my first time trying roasted radishes, and I was a big fan! Funny, Madison loves raw radishes with salt which always shocks me as that is not typical kid food. But I personally never cared for them.

So when I get my friend Rebecca’s cookbook The Ultimate Guide to Vegetable Side Dishes (affil link) and saw this recipe I was so curious.

Rebecca says “Radishes can be polarizing, but I’m on a mission to make everyone love them – these Roasted Radishes and Onions are just the way to do it. They are tender, crisp-on-the-outside, sweet, and mild – yes, mild! Roasted radishes are so sublime; they’ll convert even the biggest radish hater.”

She’s right, I’ve been converted! Radishes are a also a great low-carb, keto vegetable, so this side is perfect if you’re watching your carbs. See all of my keto recipes here.

Her book is filled with 100 vegetable side dishes such as:

  • The World’s Best (and Easiest!) Baked Potatoes
  • Buffalo Cauliflower “Wing” Bites
  • Pepper Jack Corn Fritters
  • Garlicky Baked Asparagus Fries
  • Roasted Ginger-Sesame Green Beans

What are the benefits of eating radishes?

Radishes, a root vegetable, are low in carbs and calories and have no fat. A half- cup serving has just 19 calories and four grams of carbohydrates, plus one gram of fiber, making them good for digestive health. Radishes are also a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity.

Do you peel radishes before cooking?

No, you do not need to peel radishes before cooking them. Just wash them and trim off the green tops.

How to Roast Radishes in the Oven

Roasting radishes can be done in three easy steps.

1. Put the radishes and onions on a rimmed baking sheet or cast iron skillet.
2. Drizzle olive oil over them and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes at 350 degrees, stirring every ten minutes.

What to Serve with Roasted Radishes

To turn roasted radishes into a low-carb dinner, serve them with roasted chicken, roast beef, or turkey with a salad on the side. If you’d like a side dish with carbs, my Smashed Sweet Potatoes, Rice Pilaf, or Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes would be delicious with these radishes.

radishes
Roasted Radishes and Onions

More Roasted Vegetable Recipes You’ll Love:

Roasted Radishes and Onions

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

If you don’t love radishes, this 5-ingredient Roasted Radishes and Onions recipe will definitely change your mind!

  • 2 large bunches radishes, about 1 pound each trimmed of the greens
  • 1 pound spring onions or shallots
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • Preheat oven to 425°F.
  • Halve the radishes or quarter any that are larger than a half dollar.
  • Cut the onions or shallots into wedges the size of the radish pieces.
  • Pile onto a rimmed cookie sheet or cast-iron skillet.
  • Drizzle the oil over the vegetables, sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the top and toss to coat, spreading the radishes and onions out into a single layer.
  • Roast for 10 minutes, lower the heat to 350°F, stir the vegetables, and roast for 20 to 30 more minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are deeply caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside.
  • Adjust salt as needed.

Serving: 1/2 cup, Calories: 69kcal, Carbohydrates: 11g, Protein: 1.5g, Fat: 2.5g, Saturated Fat: 0.5g, Sodium: 167mg, Fiber: 4.5g, Sugar: 4.5g

Blue Smart Points: 1

Green Smart Points: 1

Purple Smart Points: 1

Keywords: keto side dish, radish recipe, roasted radishes

Healthy Halloween Trick or Treat Recipes

Trying to live healthier this fall? Worried that all of the Halloween treats will derail you or your family’s goals? If so, then check out these Halloween trick-or-treat recipes that are a healthier alternative to traditional sweets.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Halloween Treats

The best part of these healthy Halloween treats? They’re simple, your kids can help make them, and they require no baking. They’re also super customizable. Add whichever of your favorite festive treats you and your kids prefer.

Ingredients

  • 2-1/2 cups old fashion oats.
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter.
  • ½ cup honey.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla.
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips (or replace with ½ cup of your favorite zero-sugar treat).
  • ½ cup Reese’s pieces (or replace with ½ cup of your favorite zero-sugar treat).

Directions

  1. Add ingredients to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
  3. Roll into balls (about a tablespoon each, bigger or smaller based on your preference).
  4. Place in refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes, or until set.
  5. Enjoy!

Manuka Honey Kosher 20+ from Pacific Resources International

When you’re making your no-bake peanut butter Halloween treats (or any recipe that calls for honey), we recommend using Manuka Honey from Pacific Resources International. One hundred percent raw and kosher-certified, Manuka Honey is sourced from New Zealand, where it is traditionally made from the pollen of the Manuka tree by the native Maori people. Fragrant, delicious, and high in antibacterial and antibiotic properties, Manuka honey is ideal not just for Halloween treats, but for all year.

Homemade Sugar-Free Tootsie Rolls

Are you looking for a healthier version of some classic Halloween treats or candies? Are you and your kids trying to cut down on sugar, but still miss the taste of some classic Halloween candies, like Tootsie Rolls? Then this recipe for homemade Sugar-free tootsie rolls from LowCarbYum might be right up your alley.

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup cocoa (your choice – this recipe used Ghirardelli).
  • ¼ cup unflavored whey protein.
  • 2 tablespoons powdered whole milk.
  • ½ cup low carb powdered sugar substitute.
  • Pinch of salt.
  • 60 grams of fiber syrup.
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil.
  • ½ teaspoon preferred flavor extract (vanilla, orange, mint, or your choice)!

Instructions

  1. Mix cocoa, whey protein powder, powdered milk, powdered low carb sweetener, and salt in a medium-size mixing bowl. Now set aside.
  2. Put fiber syrup in a microwave-safe bowl, and microwave for about 30 seconds, or until bubbles form. Stir in melted butter, oil, and vanilla
  3. Mix dry cocoa mix into wet fiber syrup blend until the mixture is crumbly. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a solid dough
  4. Shape the dough into a ball, then flatten with a rolling pin. Cut flattened dough into strips, and roll each strip into a rope about as wide as a Tootsie roll.
  5. Cut ropes into Tootsie roll sized pieces (mini or king-sized, or other alternative).
  6. Wrap individual rolls in wax paper, and store in the refrigerator if you want them to be firmer
  7. Enjoy!

Better Stevia Organic Extract Powder – NOW Foods

For a low-carb powdered sugar substitute, try Better Stevia Organic Extract Powder from NOW Foods. Better Stevia Organic Extract Powder is a zero-calorie, non-GMO, organic sweetener that can be used as a healthy substitute for sugar or other artificial sweeteners, whether it’s in tea, coffee, or in a healthy Halloween treat recipe.

Witches Brew Skinny Margarita

Finally, a healthy Halloween treat for adults: Witches Brew Skinny Margarita from Eating Well. This cocktail is sure to visually wow your guests with its bold red and black colors from natural sources like hibiscus tea, pomegranate juice, and black hibiscus salt.

Ingredients

  • 2 hibiscus tea bags.
  • 1 cup Blanco tequila (to make a virgin version of this, just replace the tequila with sparkling water, or an additional cup of orange juice).
  • ½ cup unsweetened pomegranate juice.
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice.
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice.
  • 1 lime wedge.
  • A few drops of Stevia sweetener.
  • 2 tablespoons of black lava salt.

Directions

  1. Combine tea bags and tequila in a pitcher and stir gently. Let the tea infuse for about 10-15 minutes, or until the tequila is bright red. Squeeze tea bags, and discard.
  2. Add remaining juices to the pitcher and stir well until thoroughly combined. Add a few drops of Stevia sweetener, to your preferred sweetness level.
  3. Pour black lava salt into a shallow bowl for dipping. Rub the lime wedge along half the rim of each cocktail glass, then dip each glass into the lava salt bowl.
  4. Add a generous amount of ice to the pitcher, and stir until chilled.
  5. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

For your Stevia liquid sweetener in this recipe, we recommend Stevia from Nutramedix.

Stevia – Nutramedix

Stevia from Nutramedix contains pure stevia leaf extract, which provides 300 times the sweetness of sugar, and may help natural glucose levels already within the normal range. Not only can you use this Stevia extract in your Halloween cocktails, but you can also use it in any drink, tea, or baking recipe you have in mind.

What are your favorite healthy Halloween trick-or-treat recipes?

FOODS THAT REALLY HELP IN WEIGHT LOSS

When you want to lose weight with Phentermine 37.5mg, what you eat makes all the difference. And while some foods offer no help to weight loss efforts, others assist the process significantly. Learn about some of the best foods for weight loss here.

Avocados

6 Reasons to Eat an Avocado

The superfood should always be on your grocery list.

“Avocados are a vitamin rich food, high in fiber, low in carbohydrates (9 grams per serving) and contain a healthy monounsaturated fat (MUFA) oleic acid that our body needs to decrease inflammation and disease,” says Monisha Bhanote, MD, FCAP, a triple board-certified physician with expertise in integrative medicine and pathology. “Using the benefits of the MUFA in an avocado can increase our insulin sensitivity and lower our cholesterol.”

Quinoa

The versatile whole grain is actually a type of seed that’s rich in fiber and protein.

“Eating foods high in fiber, like whole grain quinoa, will fill you up and help prevent overeating,” says Amanda W. Izquierdo, MPH, RD, LDN.

Cherries

8 Hidden Health Benefits of Cherries for Weight Loss, Heart Health & Good Sleep

Cherries are a weight loss powerhouse.

“Cherries are often overlooked, but they’re a superfood that can help boost weight loss,” says health and wellness coach Lynell Ross. “They are packed with nutrients such as potassium, copper, manganese, and vitamin C. But the health benefits go beyond vitamins and minerals, as cherries also pack 2 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber. Tart cherries also may help you sleep better. Studies have shown that better sleep promotes more weight loss. And if these benefits weren’t enough, cherries can help with joint pain, allowing you to get more exercise, which helps you lose weight.”

Pistachios

Image may contain Plant Food Vegetable Nut and Almond

If you eat vegan or vegetarian, pistachios are key.

“They help quell hunger, and emerging research shows that eating pistachios will help you lose weight,” says Katherine Brooking MS, RD. “Results from several recent studies suggest that adults who consume nuts, such as pistachios, may have a lower body weight and decreased prevalence of health risks such as heart disease and metabolic syndrome. They also tend to have better diets compared to people who don’t regularly eat pistachios. Pistachios are also a complete protein—ideal for vegans and vegetarians.”

The 15 Best CBD Oils You Need to Consider Trying In 2021

With 2021 coming right around the corner, we’re a few years past the 2018 Farm Bill.

If you’re not familiar, the 2018 Farm Bill was the first piece of legislation to effectively enable the sale of industrial hemp, and thus CBD, nationwide. This was groundbreaking for the cannabis industry, as it provided a baby step for the rapid transformation of laws across the country, such as Virginia’s recent announcement to become the first southern state to legalize marijuana. And for how much progress the industry has made as a whole, CBD has been earning its way into the homes of millions of people.

As a product that people of any age have been using without even trying marijuana before, CBD is quickly becoming a widely accepted product. With the implementation of candies and oils, people have claimed CBD helps them with everything from anxiety to aches and pains. Considering CBD oil is a top choice for consumers, the best producers have started to shine through the mix of those participating in the initial green rush.

With a variety of approaches to CBD depending on the user, we’ve decided to put together the best CBD oils to consider in 2021. Whether you’ve been taking CBD for a while or are a newbie to it, our list provides a comprehensive look based on variety, process, flavor and value. Let’s dive in.

1. Verma Farms

The best CBD Oil on the market, Verma Farms is the clear #1 CBD Oil for 2021. Coming in with several different varieties that include fruit-flavors like Mango, Peach, and Watermelon as well as more function-focused choices like Chill, Boost, and Focus, Verma Farms has the best variety of CBD we’ve ever seen.

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Courtesy of Verma Farms

When diving into the product, one thing that stands out is their industry famous CBD Oil Kit, which is one of the most recognized CBD solutions on the market. Dividing them up on interests, Verma Farms also offers an Oil Fruit Pack of 5x500mg packs for $199.99, which is a solid deal if you’re looking to buy and forget about restocking for a while. If you’re looking for just a single oil, go with the Mint, which is a personal favorite.

Overall, we expect Verma Farms to continue to hit heavy with their one-two punch of quality and consistency for 2021, providing the best CBD oils and the best CBD gummies money can buy. That’s why they’re not only at the top of our list but several other critics across the industry as well.

2. Charlotte’s Web

With a name synonymous with the origins of CBD Oil, it’s only natural that Charlotte’s Web comes in on our list. As their product is just as good as ever, they’ve only improved upon their menu: offering combinations of CBD solutions that include Olive Oil, Mint Chocolate, Orange Blossom, and Lemon Twist, which all come in a variety of dosages. Additionally, Charlotte’s Web also includes one of our favorite variety packs on the market with their AM/PM variety, which includes one 17mg/1ml bottle and one 7mg/1ml in any of the four flavors listed above. At $71.98 for two oils, it’s a deal that’s hard to beat.

Charlotte’s Web knows how to take on the role they’ve assigned themselves with their name –  providing top-shelf CBD that understands why it’s important to people. As one of the better full-spectrum oils on the market, Charlotte’s Web keeps it thorough in both their process and approach, which earns them a spot at the top of every best CBD list for plenty of good reasons.

3. Joy Organics

With Joy Organics you can be guaranteed that all their products live up to being called ‘organic’. While some companies will advertise themselves as organic for some items and not others, Joy Organics makes sure it is true with every product they offer; and their CBD oils are no exception.

Including both Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum oils, Joy Organics comes in Lime for the Full Spectrum, as well as Mint, Lemon, Orange Bliss, and Unflavored for their Broad Spectrum varieties. Starting at $53.95 across the board, their offerings are a good price for an honest product. Check them out if you’re looking for a brand that can not only live up to its name but provide top-tier curation in every aspect of their product as well.

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4. Neurogan

When it comes to CBD oil, the biggest thing that Neurogan delivers on is including one of the largest varieties of dosages on the market. Ranging from totals that include 500mg to 8000mg, Neurogan is there for those who have tried CBD oils and are now looking to see which dosage is right for them. Their flavor options include Citrus, Natural Hemp, and Cinnamon, as well as the option between Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum. Plus, with such a wide variety of customization, Neurogan certainly doesn’t hold back on trying to become your favorite brand.

For pricing, Neurogan starts at $29.95, which is one of the better entry point options on this list. Even their most expensive option for CBD oil is $269.95, which isn’t terrible considering all the variations in between. Aside from ordering in bulk, it’s hard to miss if you’re considering trying Neurogan.

5. Endoca

Endoca is a brand that has some of our favorite raw CBD oil. With varieties that include Raw CBD oil or THC-Free oils (which come in Chocolate Mint), Endoca only does a couple of things; however, they know how to do them incredibly well. With a price range that starts at $31 and extends up to $129.00, Endoca also has solid value for any customer. Furthermore, their raw CBD oils are easily some of the best on the market.

What we particularly enjoy about Endoca’s Raw lineup is that their process focuses on going from plant to consumption as much as possible. This helps with pulling the CBD unaltered, which gives a full-spectrum variety that’s highly concentrated and kicks in without any worries. Ultimately, if you’re looking for the rawest, most unfiltered straight-to-source experience you can, then Endoca is easily the CBD oil for you.

6. PureKana

After garnering a massive following on Instagram, PureKana became a knockout classic in CBD oil. As one of the better bargains on the market, PureKana has flavors that range from Natural and Citrus to Vanilla and Mint, with different varieties in-between that include sleep aids (containing melatonin), as well as immunity boost (which includes their ITRE blend of echinacea, ginseng, orange, pine, lemongrass, lemon, and ginger).

A fan favorite across the board, they’re constantly having solid deals going on (even on specialty items), with pricing starting around $54 for their 300mg bottle. Although now a popular brand, they still aim to cater to even the most hardcore of CBD oil fans. This is why despite all the notoriety and recognition they’ve received as a frontrunner in the industry, they should be respected for their efforts towards setting the bar for flavor and innovation. Their combinations are rock solid, and there’s not much even coming close when it comes to always being on. All-in-all, PureKana delivers on keeping their CBD oil experience as pure as they come.

7. Rosebud

A sleeper brand in CBD oil, Rosebud definitely puts on a performance. Keeping their lineup simple with an Original Strength, Double Strength, and Extra Strength, their ingredients follow suit, using only organic MCT oil and full spectrum hemp extract. Coming in either a half-ounce or full ounce bottle, their pricing starts at $55 and goes all the way up to $235 for the Extra Strength (2000mg) ounce. While that might sound pricey, you’re also getting one of the better CBD oil experiences with no filler or junk to cloud your way into the placebo effect.

What we love about brands like Rosebud is they simplify their process, which in turn makes more people fully seeing how quality CBD oil is supposed to be. Even their original strength is worthwhile to those who take CBD oil regularly, providing a solution that can be budget-friendly if you’re still shopping around for a brand you’re excited to become a repeat customer of.

8. Fab CBD

A fabulous choice for both quality and deals, Fab CBD has won the hearts of CBD oil fans across the board. One thing we love about Fab CBD is how easy they make purchasing their product, as well as how their pricing tops out at $64.50. Additionally, their 3-pack sets are all conveniently priced at $149 each, which is a discount of $45 in total. With flavors like Citrus, Mint, Vanilla, Berry, and Natural, Fab CBD has the gamut of tastiness covered. All-in-all, Fab CBD is solid.

One of the biggest things we like about Fab CBD is the simplicity of their lineup. With four options for strength, they make CBD buying easy. While they’ve never been super flashy with their display, Fab CBD certainly shows out where it counts, making a Full Spectrum variety that the CBD oil industry has loved. Check them out if you’re looking for a brand with some customization.

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9. Populum

A popular choice for Full-Spectrum oil, Populum knows where it’s at. Pulling ethically grown hemp CBD from Colorado, Populum puts a lot of investment into quality. With concentrations that include 250mg, 500mg, 1000mg, and 2000mg, their pricing offers a 20 percent discount with a monthly subscription. Although they only have Orange and flavorless for their oils, the Orange is one that is absolutely delicious…raved about by fans and critics alike.

While limited in what they offer, Populum certainly makes varieties for the serious CBD oil user. This isn’t a bad thing, as their pricing is competitive for top-tier quality, especially with minimal processing. As a brand we’d recommend to anyone that’s looking for a monthly subscription service, Populum has a great offering with their CBD oil, putting themselves ahead of numerous others in the industry.

10. Spruce CBD

Spruce CBD does more than just ‘spruce’ up your day…but completely transforms it. As a brand that focuses primarily on quality, their full-spectrum CBD oils are blended with either Hemp Seed Oil or Organic Coconut MCT Oil for the 2400mg variety, as well as hemp seed oil for their Peppermint 750mg variety. Additionally, Spruce had fun with this year’s seasonal CBD oil, coming in with a Pumpkin Spice variety that goes perfectly in any cold-weather drinks.

If you’re looking for a CBD oil brand that puts a lot into their product, then Spruce CBD is a solid bet. While you may not get as much variety when it comes to flavorings, Spruce CBD certainly has put a lot of effort into making the flavors they do have some of the better ones on the market. As they hit the mark on other consistencies such as being organic and vegan, Spruce CBD is clearly a brand that’s made by CBD oil users for CBD oil users.

11. Kyro

Although not super flashy, Kyro certainly makes a great CBD oil. Coming in with a 500mg, 1000mg, and 1500mg, Kyro’s organic solution has been well-received, hitting the benchmarks for quality and consistency. Additionally, their MCT based oil process utilizes a simple but effective scale of production, meaning you’re getting the best results you can every time. A favorite for a straightforward full-spectrum CBD oil, Kyro is definitely not a company you should put on the backburner.

12. Premium Jane

Believe it or not, Premium Jane is one of the few ‘premium’ brands to live up to their name. The best part? The pricing comes in at a steal, providing one of the better values in the CBD oil game. Starting at $48 for their 300mg 30ml bottles, they’re competitively priced against the rest, however, it’s their variety and quality that really drives it home for most.

What Premium Jane is great at is providing solutions that those who’ve been taking CBD for a while see value in, as well as those looking to catch on. With their 600mg priced at $85, their breaks on how much to charge per dose as you go up in strengths reflects how they aim to keep customers on their side by aiming to keep on their side for the long-haul. With choices like Mint Chocolate, Citrus, and Natural, they hit the standards well for flavor, providing a solution anyone can get down with.

13. Green Roads CBD

One of the biggest names in the CBD oil industry, Green Roads has been hitting on all cylinders. Not only in their quality of Full Spectrum oils but in the varieties they host in other areas as well. One product in particular that stands out is their CBD Daily Dose and Nightly Dose, which comes in a 12 pack of 25mg doses, which is perfect for users on the go or not able to measure well. Additionally, Green Roads also has a Broad Spectrum variety as well, which includes the flavor Apple Kiwi Bliss and Mint Breeze.

Created by pharmacists, Green Roads’ goal is to maximize the effectiveness of their CBD oil for each and every user. Whether you’ve tried their oil or not, they’re bound to keep your experience honest in comparison to a lot of the other brands out there. As a well-trusted and ubiquitous product across the land, Green Roads CBD oil pulls off a homerun almost each and every time.

14. Cornbread Hemp

While you might be thinking they exclusively make edibles, Cornbread Hemp actually has some of the best CBD oil in the game. Coming in with a Whole Flower or Distilled variety, they related that the Whole Flower is designed for nighttime enjoyment, while the Distilled version is to keep you going throughout the day. With a lot of thought and effort put into their organic CBD oil solutions, Cornbread Hemp is one of our favorite Full Spectrum brands, and should definitely be considered if you’re looking for a one-two CBD oil combo for day and night.

15. Pure Relief

To round out our list is Pure Relief, which has been coming up as a top-tier CBD oil brand for awhile. Known for their quality CBD flower, Pure Relief’s CBD oil is just as potent, coming in with a Full-Spectrum variety that starts at 500mg and works it way up to 2500mg (all $129.99 and below). By bringing the quality you’d see in the shops of California and Colorado online, Pure Relief is quickly growing their national profile, with their CBD oil helping carry that title as well. All-in-all, Pure Relief certainly lives up to the name, making it a cinch to find what you need to start feeling right as soon as possible.

What CBD oils have you tried and find a top choice? Have you had a chance to look for the best CBD Gummies?

CLICK TO GET YOUR CBD OIL AT A LOWER PRICE>>

3 More Ways Tea Helps With Weight Loss

Tea plays a beneficial role in any weight loss regimen. Learn more reasons why you should add it to your Phentermine 37.5mg fast weight loss program to see the results you want that much more quickly. 

It Helps Prevent Bloating

If you believe bloating is part of your weight loss problem, start drinking tea. Dandelion tea in particular is ideal for de-bloating efforts because it is a natural diuretic. It has shown to reduce water weight gain and cleanse the liver, the latter of which helps the metabolism remain high. A sluggish liver does not absorb nutrients as efficiently, which slows metabolic efforts. 

It Can Help Fuel Your Workouts

Black and green tea contain caffeine, a natural stimulant that helps you stay motivated and energized throughout your workouts. By increasing your activity level, you burn more calories. It takes between 30 to 60 minutes for caffeine to reach its peak level, which lasts three to five hours. Keep this in mind while planning your workouts. 

It Might Be Able to Reduce Bodily Fat Storage

Green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a type of catechin that helps the metabolism, features anti-inflammatory properties, and might be able to reduce fat storage within the body. 

“The antioxidants in tea can also support metabolic health in general by lowering oxidative stress—plus they help keep blood sugar levels more balanced which is beneficial for controlling fat storage,” says Dr. Axe. “EGCG which seems to help block the formation of new fat cells and may also reduce your appetite,” he says. “EGCG and other antioxidants are also thought to support recovery from exercise and can help you feel more alert, which is helpful for staying active and getting a workout in.”

For more on Phentermine pills and fast weight loss, please contact DrToHelp.com today. dr james kojian

About the Author

Dr. James Kojian M.D. has had extensive training in weight loss, hormone replacement treatments, anti-aging medicine, and has many med spas and weight loss clinics in California.

Dr. Kojian went to Medical School at the University of Illinois and trained at White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles. He now teaches patients how to eat to lower their hunger, helps them correct deficiencies in their blood tests to boost their metabolism, and shows patients the best exercises to burn fat and tone muscle.

Dr. Kojian has been on T.V. and the news many times in Los Angeles as well in Dubai and the middle east, and is considered a leading expert in weight loss and health.

Healthy and Easy Holiday Cookie Recipes

Baking and sharing cookies are popular holiday traditions because they come with that genuine homemade feeling. Plus, there are so many tempting cookie varieties that nearly everyone has a few favorites that they love. Now here’s good news for you: you can enjoy making and eating healthy holiday treats and stay on track to your weight loss goal! We’ve given these easy holiday cookie recipes a healthy makeover so you can join in the fun. They’re all so sweet and delicious that you’ll be proud to give them as gifts—and only you will know they are made with better-for-you ingredients. Best of all, they’re quick and easy to make, even if you have no baking experience.

Chocolate Snowball Holiday Cookie Recipes

Servings: 12

Calories per Serving: 90

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 3 Extras

Peanut butter, cocoa powder and coconut are the flavorful stars of these soft bites. You can whip up a batch in just 10 minutes, so you can eat them fresh whenever you have a craving for a treat.

Servings: 8 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 114

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel and 1 Extra

The nutty crunch of pecans and the naturally sweet taste of cinnamon come together in these simple-to-make crispy cookies. You’ll get a little burst of protein from the nuts and the metabolism-boosting power of cinnamon, while everyone else raves about the delightful flavor.

Iced Protein Peppermint holiday cookie recipes

Servings: 9 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 91

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel

With bananas, the handy vanilla Nutrisystem Protein and Probiotic Shake and a bit of peppermint extract, you can make soft, frosted cookies with that cool holiday taste. Add some festive sprinkles and let the party begin!

Easy Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Servings: 12 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 76

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 Extras

If you love the aroma of warm spices in your home and the seasonal tastes of pumpkin and maple syrup, make a batch of these simple but flavorful cookies. They’re very low in calories and high in satisfaction.

Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Servings: 10 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 121

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel and 1 Extra

The air fryer isn’t just for making delicious, low-calorie meals—it’s a handy tool for baking tasty cookies like these in under 10 minutes! And that’s especially good news, because you won’t want to wait to get a bite of these peanut butter treats.

Chocolate Peppermint holiday cookie recipes

Servings: 28 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 44.8

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 Extras

The richness of chocolate and the cool sensation of mint give these cookies the perfect balance of sensational flavors. Even better, you’ll be amazed that they have less than 50 calories each.

easy thumbprint cookies

Servings: 5 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 85

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb

Jelly-filled thumbprints are a staple of many family cookie traditions and you don’t have to pass on them when you’re trying to lose excess weight. These are made with four simple, healthy ingredients but don’t compromise on taste. Holiday cookie recipes don’t have to be complicated!

strawberry oatmeal cookies

Servings: 6 (1 serving = 2 cookies)

Calories per Serving: 78

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 Extras

Oatmeal cookies are a classic treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea or non-fat milk. These come out of the oven warm and moist every time because they’re made with applesauce, yogurt and naturally sweet strawberries.

gluten free sugar cookies. Holiday cookie recipes

Servings: 24  (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 59

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 Extras

Avoiding gluten as well as excess fat and sugar doesn’t mean you can’t join in on holiday cookie recipes. Our recipe developers took the classic sugar cookie and made it low in calories and satisfyingly sweet, as well as gluten free.

double chocolate cherry cookies. Holiday cookie recipes

Servings: 19 (1 serving = 2 cookies)

Calories per Serving: 104

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb

Each bite of these moist and chewy treats will light up your taste buds with the flavors of real chocolate and tart cherries. They’re so good, your family is sure to clamor for them all year long.

healthy gluten free chewy ginger cookies

Servings: 16

Calories per Serving: 102

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 3 Extras

Ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg spice these cookies with the flavors of the season. Plus, they’re made with molasses, so they’re perfectly sweet but not loaded with excess sugar.

cranberry cookies made with sweet potato. Holiday cookie recipes

Servings: 6 (1 serving = 2 cookies)

Calories per Serving: 163

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 2 Extras

Mashed sweet potato makes these cookies lightly sweet and nicely tender, while real cranberries provide the tart contrast in every bite. It takes just five simple steps to bake a batch, so you don’t have to spend hours preparing them when you’re craving cookies that taste like the holidays.

maple walnut cookies. Holiday cookie recipes

Servings: 12 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 122

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra

If you love holiday cookie recipes that are both a bit salty and lightly sweet, these glazed cookies will hit the spot. They’re made with crunchy nuts, real maple syrup, the tang of apples and a hint of cinnamon, so you get a medley of seasonal flavors in each one.

Servings: 9 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 132

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra

Yes, you can have cookies for breakfast—or just about any time you need to fuel up—with these hearty treats. They’re made with real oats, so you get a bit of fiber, plus nut butter and pumpkin seeds for a quick shot of protein to power up your day.

air fryer peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.

Servings: 10 (1 serving = 1 cookie)

Calories per Serving: 149

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel and 2 Extras

Peanut butter and chocolate chips give you two great tastes in one deliciously healthy cookie. Make them in the air fryer and you keep the mess to a minimum and the goodness to the maximum.

whole grain black and white cookies. Holiday cookie recipes

Servings: 24 (1 serving = 3 cookies)

Calories per Serving: 87

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb

If you thought you’d never be able to enjoy these classic frosted treats and stay on track with your weight loss plan, we’ve got happy news for you. With this version, you can make a batch whenever you want and enjoy three of them in each serving.

ADJUSTING CALORIES FOR WEIGHT LOSS

When talking or reading about weight loss, we hear a lot about managing and adjusting our calories. But what exactly are calories? How do we know just the right amount to consume each day? And how might our caloric needs change as we lose weight?

What are Calories?

adjusting calories

The answer to this first question is easy. Calories are a simple way to measure the amount of energy you get when you eat food, says Mayo Clinic. Your body needs calories just to perform its most basic functions—keeping your heart beating and your lungs breathing—as well as to fuel your daily activities, from walking around to working at your job.

Carbohydrates, fats and proteins are the macronutrients that provide the bulk of your calorie intake. According to Mayo Clinic, they are your body’s main energy source. No matter which nutrients you eat, the calories are either rapidly converted to energy or stored in the body as fat. “These stored calories will remain in your body as fat unless you use them up, either by reducing calorie intake so that your body must draw on reserves for energy, or by increasing physical activity so that you burn more calories,” says Mayo Clinic.

Calories and Weight Loss

adjusting calories

According to Merriam-Webster, the metabolism is all the processes by which the body converts calories into energy. You may have heard that if you consume a greater number of calories than you burn, you will gain weight. And this is fundamentally true. However, the number of calories that you need each day is influenced by a variety of metabolic factors, such as your age, gender, height, starting weight and daily activities.

These metabolic factors determine your total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) or the number of calories you burn each day. As you lose weight or change your activity level, your TDEE and metabolism adapts and changes. Because of this, many dieters find that their diet is “less effective” over time. In reality, they haven’t adjusted their eating! They’re still eating for their starting TDEE.

If you continue to diet without adjusting your calories for changes in weight or activity level, your results can take a big hit. According to the peer-reviewed journal, Obesity, losing weight decreases the metabolism, causing you to burn fewer calories throughout the day. Everyday activities also tend to decrease on a reduced calorie diet for weight loss. On the other hand, as you shed extra pounds, you may be more likely to engage in physical activity and structured exercise. While most people assume that an increase in activity leads to faster calorie burning, this is not always the case when dieting. Consuming less calories can cause you to burn less calories during exercise. All of this leads to metabolic adaption and different caloric needs during the weight loss journey.

You’ll get the swiftest results if your weight loss plan accounts for the changes your body goes through as you drop the pounds, as well as all of your other personal attributes. But here’s the good news: adjusting calories doesn’t have to mean giving up foods you like or even eating less food. Instead, you can choose meals and snacks that nourish you well and satisfy your appetite without loading you up on empty calories.

Calories on Nutrisystem

adjusting calories

The all-new personalized programs from Nutrisystem take your unique metabolism and TDEE into account to create a weight loss plan tailored to you. We understand that your metabolism and needs change as you lose weight and get more active. That’s why we’ve integrated the NuMi app into the personalized Nutrisystem journey. This is our smart weight loss tool that adjusts your meal plan to your ever-changing needs, so you can keep losing weight and progressing towards your goal at an inspiring pace. NuMi will monitor your TDEE as you lose weight, adjusting your calories and meal plan as needed. It’s a diet that adapts to you!

There is no doubt that a calorie deficit is important for losing weight. However, decreasing your calories too low for too long can actually hinder your progress. If calorie intake is too low, the body will defend against this by decreasing the metabolism. This is the metabolic adaptation we mentioned earlier! Nutrisystem personalized plans aim for a healthy rate of weight loss, which is about one to two pounds per week. This helps to ensure a healthy weight loss while trying to minimize the metabolic adaptation.

On Nutrisystem, you also get to eat all kinds of foods you love, from burgers and pizza to ice cream and cake. Plus we send them directly to your door in perfect portions for the ultimate convenience.

As you travel on your weight loss journey, Nutrisystem dietitians use the information you provide to recommend the best foods for you from our extensive menu and with the “add-ins” you pick up at the grocery store. This guidance keeps you making progress to your goal, even as your body—and its needs for calories—change. That’s the straightest path to the new, slimmer you!

Lose weight with a personalized meal plan tailored to you! Get started with Nutrisystem today >

Winter Weight Loss: Easy Meal Delivery Plan

Between the holidays and the increased time spent inside, losing weight in the winter can feel like an impossible feat. But the truth is, it doesn’t have to be that hard. In fact, with the right support system and an easy weight loss meal plan, your journey will not only be doable but enjoyable.

At Nutrisystem, we believe that losing weight shouldn’t have to mean giving up the foods that you love. When you take an approach where you feel deprived, it’s hard to stick to it. That’s why we’ve specifically crafted our easy weight loss meal plan to be flexible while still offering plenty of support.

If you’re considering trying Nutrisystem this winter, we believe that it can be an amazing, life-changing choice that you won’t regret. Still not convinced? Here are seven reasons to try Nutrisystem this season.

1. Get Your Comfort Food Fix

There’s no question that comfort food and winter go hand-in-hand. Nothing warms you up on a chilly night better than a good-old comfort food dish like a hearty casserole or a big pot of chili. The problem is that most of these choices aren’t good for the waistline.

With the Nutrisystem meal delivery service, you can get your comfort foods in a diet-friendly, perfectly portioned way. It takes all the guesswork out of getting dinner ready while still giving you the flavor and total enjoyment of some of your favorite foods. Our Roasted Turkey Medallions dinner entrée is sure to crush holiday food cravings, while our Chicken Pasta Parmesan tastes just like mom’s home cooking. And we can’t forget about our White Cheddar Mac and CheeseMeatloaf Sandwich and Savory Chicken Pot Pie!

2. Easy Meals Delivered to Your Doorstep

a smiling woman receiving food from a food delivery service

Grocery shopping can be a hassle any time of the year but when it is chilly or inclement weather, it’s even less desirable. That’s why having food delivered right to your doorstep is such a welcomed benefit of the Nutrisystem program. You’ll get delicious meals and snacks to stock up your freezer and pantry without the inconvenience and hassles of the grocery store!

3. Get a Head Start on Your Weight Loss New Year’s Resolutions

a woman preparing to write down new years resolutions next to a plate of fruit. easy weight loss meal plan 

If losing weight is always on your New Year’s resolutions list, you can do yourself a big favor by getting started now. You’ll start shedding pounds before New Year’s even rolls around and will be motivated to keep up that momentum in the year ahead. Just imagine where you’ll be by the time next year’s New Year rolls around!

One of the best things about Nutrisystem is that our support doesn’t end after you reach your goal weight. We’re also here for you during weight maintenance with our Nutrisystem Success plans. The Nutrisystem program is about making lifelong changes which not only contribute to healthy weight loss but to overall better health.

4. Flexibility to Get the Most Out of Your Holidays

a Thanksgiving spread of food on a family sized table

We realize that one of the reasons people put off their weight loss plans until after the holidays is that they feel they won’t be able to enjoy them to the fullest. There’s no question that food is deeply ingrained in many of our holiday traditions.

But that’s what’s so great about the Nutrisystem program! With our easy-to-follow Flex meal guidelines, helpful tips and advice, you can still enjoy homemade holiday meals or dine out at your favorite restaurants. It’s all about balance. We truly believe that when you avoid feeling deprived, you have the most success.

5. A Personalized Program Tailored to YOU

a couple cooking together while looking at a recipe on an iPad. easy weight loss meal plan 

Another reason why Nutrisystem is so great is the fact that they offer all-new personalized programs that are tailored to YOU. The truth is, no two people are alike and their journey to weight loss shouldn’t look the same either. Using your height, weight, age, gender, body type and activity level, we create an easy weight loss meal plan that adapts to your metabolism as you lose weight. With a program tailored to you, you’ll be able to finally achieve results that might have been elusive in the past.

6. You’ll Feel Great During the Holidays

a family gathered around a dinner table full of food on Christmas. easy weight loss meal plan 

When you lose weight, you feel great—something that will make the holidays even more special. Maybe it’s fitting into that holiday dress that you used to love wearing. It could also just be a matter of feeling your very best while enjoying the holiday season to the fullest. Instead of feeling sluggish and tired, you’ll have the energy to get the most out of the season.

7. You’ll Have all the Support You Need to Succeed

a man relaxing on his couch, while looking at his phone. easy weight loss meal plan 

At the end of the day, we find that so much of peoples’ success (or lack of it) comes down to how much support they received. That’s why we’re committed to supporting those who start their healthy weight loss journey in a variety of different ways. With such a robust support system, you’re truly set up to achieve your goals.

Vitamin C: Foods to Stock Up On

Slices oranges and grapefruits

Vitamin C is one of the most talked-about nutrients. Most of us are aware that it is essential for our health and immune system, but do you know why or how much of it you need each day? How can you be sure that you are getting enough? These days, it’s more important than ever to maintain a healthy supply of vitamin C, so we’ve put together this quick guide to everything you need to know about it and how you can get it from your daily diet.

Why is Vitamin C Important?

Healing wounds. According to the National Institutes of Health, your body uses vitamin C to produce collagen, proteins that form the primary structure of skin, cartilage and other soft tissues. When you suffer from a wound or bruise, your body replenishes the damaged area with fresh collagen.

Cancer protection. Vitamin C is an antioxidant. This means that it helps to neutralize “free radical” cells that damage healthy cells, blocking the first step in a chain reaction that may lead to cancer. “Epidemiologic evidence suggests that higher consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with lower risk of most types of cancer, perhaps, in part, due to their high vitamin C content,” says the National Institutes of Health.

Heart disease reduction. People who don’t consume enough vitamin C are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, the condition in which arteries are clogged with excess cholesterol, according to a report from the National Institutes of Health.

Immune system support. We all are looking to give our bodies extra protection from infectious diseases. According to research, published in the journal Nutrients, “Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system.”

Weight loss. Leptin is a hormone that lets your body know when you’ve eaten enough food to satisfy its needs. According to the Journal of Molecular Endocrinology, vitamin C helps to regulate leptin levels in your body, ensuring that you don’t overeat. A steady supply of vitamin C helps you stay on track with your weight loss plan.

How Much Vitamin C Do You Need?

Your body cannot produce its own vitamin C, so you need to get it from the food you eat. The National Institutes of Health has recommended these daily consumption levels:

  • 90 mg for adult males
  • 75 mg for females
  • 85 mg for pregnant women
  • 120 mg for breastfeeding women
  • An additional 35 mg for people who smoke

Always speak to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your vitamin C status, needs or supplements.

Foods High in Vitamin C:

The best sources for vitamin C are real foods. Supplements are available, but food comes with other essential nutrients, says Harvard Health Publishing. The National Institutes of Health provides a list of vitamin C-rich foods that can be incorporated into a healthy diet. We chose our top 10 favorite picks for your Nutrisystem plan and provided some delicious and fresh ideas for enjoying them.

1. Red Peppers

Sliced red bell peppers

You get the highest concentration of vitamin C per serving in these colorful sweet red bell peppers. Orange, yellow and green peppers are also rich sources of the nutrient.

Try this: Roasted Red Pepper & Turkey Pinwheel Wraps make a quick and satisfying Flex lunch you can take on the go.

2. Oranges

Slices oranges and grapefruits

Citrus fruits, including oranges, grapefruit and lemons, are another vitamin C-rich food source. While you get plenty of vitamin c from fresh-squeezed juice, eating the whole fruit also provides fiber that helps you feel full long after you’re finished.

Try this: Cacao Citrus Salad is a colorful breakfast or light lunch that brings together a mix of vitamin-C rich fruit flavored with maple, vanilla, and cacao nibs.

3. Strawberries

Strawberries in a bowl vitamin C

These bite-sized treats are high in fiber as well as vitamin C and other key nutrients. You can eat the strawberries whole, add them to smoothies or in other dishes.

Try this: When you’re looking for a cool and creamy snack that fits your weight loss plan and gives you just about a whole day’s supply of vitamin C, whip up a batch of our 2-Ingredient Strawberry Froyo.

4. Broccoli

Broccoli florets ready to cook in a pot vitamin C

You probably already know that non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli are a critical part of your daily diet because they are high in fiber and nutrients yet low in calories. Enjoy broccoli raw or lightly steamed. You can even add it to many of your favorite Nutrisystem meals!

Try this: Broccoli and Cheese Breakfast Muffins are a tasty way to start your day with a healthy serving of vegetables.

5. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts served in a bowl.

These bite-sized members of the cabbage family are one of most nutrient-dense foods, meaning they are packed with a wide range of nutrients but are very low in calories. They taste their best in fall, after a light chill has sweetened their flavor.

Try this: The whole family will love the gooey goodness of our 4-Step Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Bake.

6. Cantaloupe

Sliced cantaloupe on a plate vitamin C

The orange-fleshed melon is so sweet and juicy you don’t need another reason to eat it often, but you’ll also be glad that it loads you up with vitamin C and fiber. For a refreshing drink, freeze cantaloupe cubes and add them to low-sodium seltzer.

Try this: Grilling adds another layer of flavor to cantaloupe. Cut the flesh into cubes (with rind removed) and slide them on to skewers. Cook them over medium heat for four to six minutes, turning frequently. Check out our other ideas for grilled fruit! >

7. Cauliflower

Multi-colored cauliflower florets

It’s easier than ever to get your daily vitamin C from cauliflower because there are so many delicious ways to eat it—raw with dip, steamed or roasted, ground into rice-like grains, whipped with potatoes, and even rolled into pizza crust.

Try this: 5-Ingredient Buffalo Cauliflower Bread Sticks are a festive snack that you can serve for a celebration or enjoy any day of the week.

8. Kiwi

Sliced and whole kiwis on a table vitamin C

These fuzzy fruits are perfectly portable. They are great for throwing in your lunch bag for a quick and easy snack. Just slice them in half, grab a spoon and scoop out the sweet, green flesh. Add them to plain, non-fat Greek yogurt for a slightly sweet and sour twist.

Try this: You get two vitamin-C rich foods in the Kiwi Strawberry Slushie, yet it counts as only one SmartCarb on the Nutrisystem weight loss plan.

9. Tomatoes

Farm fresh whole cherry tomatoes vitamin C

As a sandwich topping, in a salad or in marinara sauce, tomatoes come with plenty of vitamin C, along with a powerful antioxidant known as lycopene, says Healthline. Be sure to eat the skin, where many of the nutrients are found.

Try this: With an instant pot, you can enjoy a warm and delicious Tomato Basil Frittata in under 30 minutes.

10. Pineapple

Woman slicing pineapple vitamin C

If you love tropical flavors, pineapple is a delicious source for your daily vitamin C, says Healthline. Many grocery stores now sell it already sliced and ready to eat, so you don’t have to deal with figuring out when it’s perfectly ripe and juicy.

Try this: Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Grilled Pineapple is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and sweet and cinnamon-y in every bite.

Healthy Snacks That Hinder Weight Loss Efforts

There are plenty of snacks that seem healthier than chips and cookies, but are actually detrimental to weight loss and overall health. Review five of the worst offenders here to help revamp your diet now that you’re taking Phentermine 37.5mg. 

Fruit Bars

These snack bars might be a little healthier than their artificial counterparts, but that doesn’t mean they will help with weight loss. All-fruit bars are typically high in sugar and low in fiber so you’re left feeling hungry about 30 minutes after consuming them. Granola bars are no better, as they are essentially the same as candy bars. 

Pita Chips

The whole wheat versions of pita chips offer a healthy snack when you eat them with homemade hummus, but the white ones? They contain no fiber whatsoever so you feel hungry instead of satiated. 

Paleo Cookies

Cookies with the “paleo” or “vegan” label can seem like attractive alternatives, but in reality they’re just as bad. Vegan cookies are often high in sugar and refined carbs, while paleo versions feature too much saturated fat from butter or eggs. 

Commercial Trail Mix

While DIY trail mix is a healthy snack option, the commercial version has been likened to candy. It often comes loaded with M&Ms and sugary dried fruit that makes it anything but nutritious. Look for weight loss-conscious trail mix recipes online instead of relying on storebought versions. 

Yogurt or Chocolate-Covered Nuts

Sure, nuts contain protein and healthy fat, but coating them with yogurt or chocolate seriously increases their sugar content. Stick to raw nuts such as walnuts and almonds for a dose of healthy fat that keeps you feeling full, which makes it easier to say no to sugar.

Learn How to Fight Bad Breath … Naturally!

Learn natural remedies on how to fight bad breath.

A first date, a job interview, or a visit to the dentist – these are just a couple of occasions that may cause you to do a breath check. When we communicate through speech, we want our words to be front and center, not the smell of our breath.

Foul breath is not only caused by garlic sauce and raw onions, there are lots of things that trigger bad breath and as many suggestions for how to combat it. October is Dental Hygiene Month, and keeping your mouth clean plays a big role in how to fight bad breath, as do a number of other lifestyle and health factors.

Causes of Bad Breath

Certain foods will change the smell of your breath, but there are a lot of other factors at play as well.

Plaque

Keeping your mouth clean and free of plaque is your first defense against bad breath. Plaque is a sticky paste that forms on your teeth and gums and if you don’t brush it away two times a day, it can build up, leading to smelly gum disease and tooth decay.

Diet and Dietary Changes

Spicy and pungent foods are clearly connected to bad breath. As your body digests these foods, they move into your bloodstream and your lungs, changing your breath for a few hours. Additionally, if you’ve made drastic changes, such as switching to the keto diet, you may notice a change in your breath at first.

Dry Mouth

A dry mouth can cause bad breath as well, as your saliva helps keep your mouth clean. When you are dehydrated, your saliva production is decreased (think morning breath), and this can cause an odor.

Disease

Occasionally, bad breath can be an indicator of disease or a more serious problem. Certain cancers, metabolic disorders, and digestive issues can cause foul smelling breath, so if you have tried everything, it’s best to see your doctor.

How to Fight Bad Breath

Brushing and flossing is the best way to fight bad breath and prevent tooth decay, but there are other tricks that some people find effective.

Home Remedies

There are several home remedies that may help fight bad breath. For example, ever wondered why many restaurants serve you a sprig of parsley? It’s not only there for plating, some believe that chewing parsley after a meal can help fight bad breath. Additionally, many people recommend drinking pineapple juice, chewing gum, or using a baking soda mouthwash.

Supplements to Fight Bad Breath

Wondering how to fight bad breath with supplements? Here are a few trusted products and brands we recommend.

OralBiotic from Now Foods

OralBiotic from NOW Foods may reduce bad breath as it contains the naturally occurring probiotic organism Streptococcus salivarius BLIS K12, which has been clinically shown to support oral and throat health.

PRO-Dental for Oral Health by Hyperbiotic

Looking for a way to support healthy teeth, gums, nose, ears, and sinuses? PRO-Dental for Oral Health by Hyperbiotics is formulated with oral probiotics to support pH levels in the oral cavity.

Spry Moisturizing Mouth Spray from Xlear

Struggling with dry mouth or bad breath? Spry Moisturizing Mouth Spray from Xlear uses xylitol and aloe vera to soothe and moisturize the gums and tissues in the mouth and throat, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and healthy.

How do you keep your mouth fresh and odor-free? Use the comments section below to share your healthy habits.

How Detox Helps You Lose Weight

Despite efforts to reduce or eliminate the number of potentially harmful chemicals in consumer products, the agriculture sector, and our waterways, people and companies still improperly use and dispose of these chemicals. Worse still is that many of these chemicals are resistant to biodegradation and will be with us for centuries.

So despite your efforts to live a clean lifestyle, exposure is inevitable. But there may be hope. Research suggests that when toxins enter our body, they sometimes end up in our adipose tissue, which is the body’s fat tissue where energy is stored. So detoxing the body and losing weight may lead to these chemicals leaving the body.

Keep reading to learn more about how you can use detoxification and weight loss to support detoxification.

How Toxins Enter Our Bodies

Even if you’re the healthiest person on this earth, there is still really no possible way to avoid toxins all together.
There's no way to avoid toxins

Toxins are in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and the products we use.

Skin

Many people don’t think about how our skin is our largest organ, and what we put on our skin gets absorbed into our bodies even more so than what we put in our mouths. When we eat, our digestive tract helps clean up some of the yuck. When we put things on our skin, most everything absorbs right through to our blood.

So, the sassy ingredients used in most skin & beauty products are one-way toxins pass through. Don’t forget about cleaning supplies, bug sprays, sunscreen, etc. We probably put more things on our skin than we realize.

Water

Living in a developed nation has both its advantages and disadvantages when it comes to water access. On the plus side, for most people, what comes from the tap will likely never cause you any serious problems. The downside is that populated areas are all fighting over the same water supply. That means a lot of commercial and industrial development is build around waterways and water found underground.

Exhaust from vehicles, oil, sewage, improper disposal of waste, and chemicals, among other things, can find their way into the ground or flow into clean water supplies. Thanks to complex filtration processes, much of this won’t reach your faucet, but there still are risks. Common impurities found in public water supplies include:

  • Lead.
  • Mercury.
  • Arsenic.
  • Radioactive substances. 
  • Copper.
  • Chlorine.
  • Nitrates.
  • Fluoride.
  • Manganese.

While small amounts diluted in the water supply may not be immediately dangerous, it also isn’t entirely known what the long-term effects of exposure may be. Using a water filter rated to reduce or remove these and other compounds that may be in your water is one option to consider.

Food… food… food.

If only it were easy to avoid all the human-created extras in our food. Pesticides, additives, artificial coloring, preservatives, harmful contaminants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated biphenyl and dioxins found in animal products, mercury in fish, artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated oils, rBGH (Bovine Growth Hormone), arsenic in chicken meat, and bisphenol-A (commonly found in canned foods). These are only some of the issues with our agricultural industry.

Your best bet is to eat as close to the earth as possible. Meaning nuts and seeds, organic produce, avoid sugar (except natural sugar in fruit), and so on.

Air

We won’t go too deep into toxins in the air. What is the water supply is also sometimes found in the air, among other things, such as pollution, combustibles, flame retardants, and paint fumes, and so forth. The crazy thing is, your house has more toxins than the outside air if you keep windows closed and have carpets, furniture, and cleaning supplies containing potentially harmful chemicals used during manufacturing. 

A Cleansing Detox With Weight Loss Benefits

Detox
  • Naturally your skin, lungs, liver, kidneys, digestive, circulatory, and lymphatic systems work hard to eliminate toxins from your body. But, these days the toxic overload is too much for our poor organs to handle. Especially with buildup over time.Detoxification is a healthy and natural way to help your body get rid of harmful toxins. When it is done properly, it is one of the best things you can do for yourself to prevent health issues or even lose weight. Doesn’t it make sense to clean your insides? If your organs don’t have to focus all their attention on the toxic build up, then the nutrients will be able to do what they need for your body.The losing weight part is just an added benefit! When your body eliminates harmful toxins, the fat that is stored to help protect your body will also be eliminated.How Detoxify the Body
    • You can simply exercise and eliminate toxins through your sweat.
    • Drink lots of water and flush out the toxins through your urine.
    • Getting a massage or doing yoga release toxins through your skin.
    • Eat only organic fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Drink plenty of water and herbal tea! This gives your organs a chance to catch up with eliminating your toxic build up.
    • Using nutritional products is also an option to assist your cleansing detoxification process.When using supplements to assist in the detoxification process, it’s best to consult your healthcare practitioner before you begin taking them.Cleansing your body once in a while is a great idea and comes with many benefits including weight loss. It’s a great idea to try a cleansing detox if you’ve been working hard to lose weight and it just isn’t working. It’s also a great way to maintain your ideal weight! Happy detoxing!

Craving Chocolate Diet

Craving Chocolate? Diet Hacks –

Craving Chocolate Diet

Once considered a guilty pleasure of which to steer clear, chocolate has made its way up the ranks of unexpected health foods.

Thank you, flavanols!

Plant compounds found in cacao beans (from which chocolate is made), flavanols are associated with reduced blood pressure, protection against heart disease and sharper minds, among other benefits. Still, it’s important to remember that not all chocolate is created equal. Dark chocolate provides more good-for-you compounds than milk chocolate. Plus, milk can contain about twice as much sugar as dark.

For a healthy dose of flavanols without a big boost of calories and sugar, choose a chocolate with at least 65 percent cacao. In general, the higher the percentage of cacao, the larger the amount of healthy compounds you get. Regardless of the variety, stick to a sensible, half an ounce portion (two dark chocolate minis), which count as three Extras on Nutrisystem.

10 Ways Chocolate Can Improve Your Health

However, if you’re like most people, no amount of chocolate ever seems enough. Thankfully there are so many ways to enjoy the deep, rich flavors of this decadent treat, without the sinful sugar and calorie counts. Eating chocolate is no longer the only way to get your chocolatey fix.

Sounds easier than it is, right? We know.

That’s why we’re serving up some creative, healthy snack hacks to help you survive your chocolate cravings:

1. Warm up with some chocolate flavored coffee or tea.

The selection of flavored coffees and teas grows by the minute. Whether it’s your favorite local brew, or a bag of fresh leaves you picked up the other day at the local coffee shop, you’ll know you’re getting something absolutely delicious. Almond Joy, Mocha Coconut, Chocolate Raspberry… the list goes on and on. It’s easy to see how some of these warming drinks could fill your stomach in place of some of the most indulgent desserts. Coffee and tea have health benefits, too. Protecting from heart disease, aiding in weight loss and preventing diabetes are just some of the possible advantages to this diet addition. It goes without saying that the most wholesome way to enjoy your cup is black, but just a pinch of milk, or zero-calorie sweetener can add a boost for those that don’t adore these refreshments in their natural state. Steer clear of the lattes and flavored cappuccinos—these are diet destroyers with their heavy milk bases and syrups.

How to Have a Tastier Tea Time

2. Just a touch of cocoa powder hits food hard with flavor.

One tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder typically ranges from 10-15 calories, but all you need is a sprinkle. Cocoa powder adds a depth to dishes of all varieties that can’t be beat. Try it dusted over your favorite nut butter, blended in your smoothie, added to your oatmeal or graced on fruits like strawberries or frozen bananas. Just a little goes a long way to give you a chocolatier day.

3. Rev up your body with chocolate flavored protein shakes.

Protein is a diet must for long lasting energy and fuel to repair your body after exercise. Why not delight in all of the chocolate flavored options? Plant and whey protein powders all come with the taste of an amazing chocolate shake. Protein powders are insanely versatile so you can really experiment to create your favorite treat. Chocolate protein powder with almond milk and frozen raspberries are a recipe for taste that spells splurge city, even though its not.

Need to restock your protein powder stash? Order Nutrisystem shakes here.>

Your Foolproof Guide to Protein Powder

4. Milk your Extras.

Hot cocoa enthusiasts, rejoice. One tablespoon of sugar-free chocolate syrup is an Extra on Nutrisystem. Incorporate this Extra with nonfat or unsweetened nondairy milk for a chocolate milk or hot cocoa that satisfies. No sugar, no hunger and no guilt. Chocolate syrup can also be used to dress strawberries, bananas, apples or “Nice Cream” to make the velvety, sweet fix all the more filling.

5. Give your magnesium a makeover.

If you crave chocolate all of the time—and we mean all of the time—it’s possible you’re running a bit low on the nutrients your body needs, specifically magnesium. Low magnesium is commonly associated with increased crankiness, anxiety and soreness, all symptoms many instinctively treat with chocolate. Augmenting your diet with wholesome, magnesium-containing foods like dark, leafy greens and fish might be the key to seeing your extreme chocolate cravings disappear.

What 5 Common Cravings Say About Your Diet

6. Nosh on some sweet fruit after your meal… or chocolate dessert.

For the love of fruit, there are so many reasons for the widespread obsession with chocolate. But, even after enjoying a nice (perfectly portioned!) piece of chocolate, a flavored chocolate drink or cocoa infused snacks, a piece of fruit can be the (forgive the pun) cherry on top… and just the thing to bring closure to your craving. Fruit is sugary, but in the natural way. Nothing added. Just enjoyed whole, fruit is refreshing and filling and can perfectly complement whatever you ate prior. Nothing will nix your chocolate craving faster than finishing it off with one piece of fruit. There are so many varieties of fruit, you’ll find one to meet any mood and nutritional goal. Finding one that complements chocolate? Even better. Our favorites? Raspberries or pomegranate seeds.

7. Get creative in the kitchen with a healthier chocolate recipe.

Last, but not least, if you really do need a chocolate dessertand there are absolutely times that warrant themskinny dessert recipes come in for the clutch. Weight loss blogs and healthy recipe pages, like the one here, at The Leaf, offer smarter options for every desire. Keep your health in line and your weight loss success in sight, with smoothies, shakes and mug cakes that provide balanced nutrition in the proper portions.

15 Decadent Recipes for Chocolate-Lovers

 

 

Date Night In? 15 Dinner Recipes Meant For You

Date Night In? 15 Dinner Recipes Meant to Be Shared

Date Night In? 15 Dinner Recipes Meant For You

Skip the crowded restaurants and spare your eyes the stress of squinting at the menu for something healthy. On your next special night, treat your special someone to a home-cooked meal—one that you know is good for you both… and that tastes delicious.

Here are 15 date night dinner ideas that bring some magic to the moment:

1. Greek Fish and Vegetables

Date Night Dinner Ideas Greek Fish and Vegetables
You pick your fish: Halibut, flounder, cod—as long as it’s white, it will pair beautifully with the roasted cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onions and chickpeas that sit on top. This Mediterranean-style dish contains enough healthy fats to satisfy your hunger, but is light enough to leave a little room for dessert. Plus, the meal has really nice dish appeal.

2. Pineapple Chicken Kebabs

Pineapple Chicken Kebabs Date Night Dinner Ideas
Grilled pineapple. Need we say more? If so, these chunks of deliciousness are stacked alongside chicken, bell peppers and onions, then brushed with barbecue sauce and grilled for the perfect mix of sweet and savory. Each kebab offers a wide range of nutrients and on Nutrisystem, it counts as one SmartCarb, two Power Fuels, one Vegetable and two Extras.

3. Air Fryer Drumsticks: Healthier Fried Chicken

Date Night Dinner Ideas Air Fryer Drumsticks on Plate
If you have an air fryer, you have to treat your sweetie to these Cajun-seasoned drumsticks. If you don’t have an air fryer, here’s why you want one: It cuts out the vat of oil used in a typical deep fryer, so you can enjoy a healthier dish with much less fat and far fewer calories.

4. Zucchini Noodles with Roasted Vegetables and Pesto

Date Night Dinner Ideas Zucchini Noodles Roasted Vegetables Pesto
Have you met the zoodle? Short for zucchini noodle, it’s a great carb-cutting swap for standard spaghetti. Coat the veggie strands in creamy pesto (made from scratch!), toss them with roasted tomatoes, artichoke hearts and bell peppers, and watch your loved one swoon.

5. Brazilian Black Bean Stew

Date Night Dinner Ideas
A healthier twist on the traditional dish, this recipe swaps chicken sausage in for the meat, and brown rice instead of white. However, you still get the filling beans and blend of savory flavors, along with orange slices on the side, just like it’s typically served. Call it, “Feijoada,” if you want to sound authentic. Practice pronouncing, “fay-ZHWA-dah,” for a more impressive effect.

6. Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad

Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad Date Night Dinner Ideas
If your senorita is craving a little Mexican, grab your cutting board and get to chopping. Though the list of ingredients is long, the crunch of the cabbage and peppers, pop from the black beans and corn, and the flavors of the homemade dressing, featuring avocado, lime juice and cilantro, make the salad worth the prepping effort. One bite and she’ll say delicious!

7. Salmon Burger with Herb Cream Sauce

Date Night Dinner Ideas Salmon Burger with Herb Cream Sauce
This is not your average burger, people. Not only is salmon packed with heart-healthy oils, but it’s also a good source of lean protein, which helps to boost metabolism and decrease appetite. Its tender, buttery texture makes a perfect patty, which you’ll season with paprika, garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat. The crème de la crème—the homemade herb cream sauce—adds elegance and awesome flavor. For another inspired idea, try the bun-less Edamame Quinoa Burgers.

8. Meat Lovers Loaded Pepper

Date Night Dinner Ideas Meat Lover's Loaded Pepper
There’s lean ground turkey, brown rice, spinach, chopped tomatoes, onions and garlic, coated in tomato sauce and nestled into your bell pepper of choice. It’s hearty, healthy and overflowing with goodness. If you prefer no meat, try this Veggie and Rice Stuffed Pepper and let the amazement consume you.

9. Southwest Spaghetti Bowl

Date Night Dinner Ideas Southwest Spaghetti Bowl
This one might take the win for best presentation: Spaghetti squash strands, mixed with shredded chicken, green cilantro, black beans, red peppers, and other veggies served in a scooped out spaghetti squash is not only colorful and beautiful, but also delicious. And when you think it can’t get better, it does, in the form of shredded cheese sprinkled on top.

10. Easy Chicken Fajita Bake

Date Night Dinner Ideas Easy Chicken Fajita Bake
Nowhere does it say that a date night dinner idea needs to be complicated. Tender chicken breast, vegetables, black olives, cheese and savory Mexican spices make for a simple and flavorful dish. This recipe is also easy to tweak: Just add in your sweetheart’s favorite veggies and experiment with spices to make it even more special.

11. Ginger Soy Noodle Bowl

Date Night Dinner Ideas Ginger Soy Noodle Bowl
Enjoy flavors of the Far East from the comfort of your own home. This veggie-loaded noodle bowl—complete with whole wheat spaghetti, fiber-rich edamame and crispy sugar snap peas—is bathed in an Asian-inspired sauce and perfect for sharing. Whip out a pair of “his and her” chopsticks and prepare your taste buds to be transported.

12. Loaded Mexican Baked Sweet Potato

Date Night Dinner Ideas Loaded Mexican Baked Sweet Potato
The name says it all. Each side of a sweet potato is loaded with shredded chicken, cheese, salsa and low-fat sour cream. A sprinkle of spices and chopped green onion on top are the magic. A salad on the side, and dinner is served.

13. Ground Turkey and Veggie Curry with Brown Rice

Date Night Dinner Ideas Ground Turkey and Veggie Curry with Brown Rice
Curry, coriander, cumin, turmeric and red chili flakes, work together to boost the flavor of this turkey-vegetable medley. It’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Counting as one SmartCarb, two Power Fuels, one Extra and one and a half Vegetables on Nutrisystem, it’s a perfect flex dinner.

14. Beetroot and Quinoa Superfood Salad

Beetroot Quinoa Salad Date Night Dinner Ideas
The salad looks almost as beautiful as your date. Lemon juice, olive oil and low-fat feta add vibrant flavor, while beets, kale and quinoa send the nutritional value of this meal soaring. If you have cooked beets prepared already, this one is very quick fix too.

15. Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas

Date Night Dinner Ideas Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
For a more casual night with your guy or gal, consider the quesadilla. You still get the shredded cheddar and chunks of chicken you’d expect, but with low-fat cheese, extra veggies and whole-wheat tortillas, this classic gets a whole lot healthier. Looking to get a little closer with a movie? Watch this recipe video to heat things up a bit.

Click here for more

Everything You Need to Know About SPIRULINA

Spirulina: Everything You Need to Know

As you scroll through your social media feed, you may have noticed an increase in turquoise smooth bowls and ocean-green protein shakes. This unique, unusual hue is most likely from spirulina, blue-green algae that has been dried and ground into powder, says Harvard Health. So, what’s the big deal about spirulina and should you incorporate it into your healthy diet?

Spirulina is an up and coming superfood that has recently become popular. It has an impressive nutritional profile, starting with a potent punch of complete protein standing on a low-calorie foundation, says Harvard Health. It also contains a rich supply of vitamins and minerals, such as iron and omega-3 fatty acids. Sounds like a valuable ally in your daily drive to eat healthy and reach your weight loss goal, doesn’t it?

Pronounced spee·ruh·LEE·nuh, it has been used as a food source for centuries and has recently become a popular ingredient among healthy eaters. This may be due to its nutritional content and numerous studies claiming important benefits to our well-being. From packaged foods to supplements, find out why this healthy alga has made its way to your supermarket’s shelves.

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Keep reading for everything you need to know about spirulina:

Nutrition Highlights

spirulina

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one teaspoon of spirulina contains two grams of protein, one gram of carbohydrates and zero grams of fat for only 15 calories. Unlike most plant foods, spirulina comes with all the essential amino acids, making it a “complete” protein, says CookingLight.com. Spirulina is a good plant-based source of iron and is an appealing option for vegans and vegetarians.

Spirulina also contains essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, says Healthline. According to the American Heart Association, omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that are said to support Heart Health. Gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid, has been shown to reduce chronic inflammation, according to research published in Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology.

Health Powers

spirulina

The anti-inflammatory properties of spirulina were evident in a study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology. The subjects who consumed spirulina daily for three weeks were able to exercise longer with less soreness than the control group. This could be especially beneficial if you are new to working out. Better yet, in another study, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, participants who took spirulina burned fat while exercising at a higher rate than those who had a placebo.

Spirulina may also help your body manage sugar and cholesterol levels, according to a study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research. This study found that after 30 days of taking spirulina, lab animals had reduced levels of blood glucose and LDL cholesterol and increased levels of HDL cholesterol.

If you have a health condition, are taking an anti-coagulant drug or any other medication, check with your doctor and pharmacist before adding spirulina to your daily routine. You want to be sure it won’t interfere with your health or medication. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also consult with their health-care providers before taking spirulina.

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Buyer’s Guide

spirulina

According to Harvard Health, you can find spirulina capsules, tablets and powder. They are typically found in the vitamin and supplement section of supermarkets, drug stores and health food stores. You can add it to recipes or just swallow it daily in supplement form. Energy bars, chocolate and drinks that include spirulina are available in many outlets, too.

Keep in mind that spirulina is like other dietary supplements and it is not subject to the same testing or regulations that the Food and Drug Administration requires of medicines, says Harvard Health. That means you need to read labels and do a little research on your own to be sure that spirulina is the only—or at least the primary—ingredient in any product you buy. It can also be pricey, so beware of products that are significantly cheaper than all of the competing brands.

Fresh Ideas

smoothie bowl

Spirulina by itself has the distinct flavor and aroma of algae with hint of fishiness. That’s why many people choose to take odorless and tasteless spirulina capsules or tablets. Some people mix the powder in water and drink it. However, many find it unpalatable that way. More popular is mixing a few spoonful’s into smoothies or bowls, in which the other flavors can bury spirulina’s taste. If you prefer savory tastes, try adding it to homemade pesto. You can also incorporate it into homemade energy balls.  Try throwing it one of these energy ball recipes >

On the Nutrisystem program, about two teaspoons of spirulina count as one Extra. Bon Appétit Magazine recommends keeping open containers of spirulina products in the refrigerator to help protect its nutrients from oxygen.

 

Music and Weight Loss

Music and Weight Loss | The Leaf Nutrisystem Blog

The idea that some good tunes can actually have an impact on your weight loss just may be music to your ears. But it’s more than just an idea—it has scientific backing. Several different studies have looked at the way in which music can impact everything from the effectiveness of your exercise routine, to one’s overall health. They all seem to point to the same fact—that music matters. Find out how music can help you reach your weight loss goals on your Nutrisystem journey.

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Music Helps You Burn More Calories

burn calories

A lot of the research focuses on how music impacts one’s workout routine—and it’s quite encouraging. For instance, research published in the Journal of Exercise Physiology Online, demonstrates that people exercising with fast tempo music had a higher heart rate and increased respiratory rate—all of which adds up to more calories burned.

Good Tunes Makes Exercise Enjoyable

music and weight

In addition to burning more calories, different research, out of Brunel University London, has revealed that music makes exercise more enjoyable. The results, which were published in the journal Psychology of Sport and Exercise, found that listening to music led to a 28 percent increase in enjoyment (compared to no auditory). This is important as music could inspire you to work out longer, leading to even more calories burned.

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Listening to Music Helps You Stick with Your Goals

music and weight

Similarly, music can also help you stick to a program for the long-term. A study, from Fairleigh Dickinson University, found that listening to music while exercising helped participants adhere more closely to their workout regimen and lose more weight. According to MedicineNet, the 2005 study followed a group of overweight and obese women during a 24-week period of exercise. Half of the women listened to music of their choice. While all participants lost weight, weight loss was higher for the music listeners.

Moving to Music Helps Increase Your Happiness

music and weight

If you’re someone who loves music (as most people do), then this is probably quite obvious to you—music makes you happy. Specifically, dancing to music has been shown to be a great way to boost your mood. A study, published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, showed that 12 weeks of dance sessions raised serotonin (the neurotransmitter contributing to feelings of happiness) and contributed to enhanced mood.

6 Reasons to Crank Up the Tunes Today

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Tips for Incorporating Music Into your Routine

music and weight

There’s no question that music can have a positive impact on your workout routine and overall health. It is a great way to potentially increase results with your weight loss plan. We’ve rounded up a few important takeaways so that can use music to your benefit.

  • Choose music that you like. Enhance your workout and get motivated by listening to your favorite tunes. Choose music that personally motivates you and remember that it is very subjective. While you might be inspired by “rock,” your friend might be inspired by “hip hop.” Headphones are certainly a wonderful creation!
  • Create a playlist that fits your routine. Use music to boost your workout by coordinating it with the activity you’re doing. According to The Sport Journal, research displays that synchronizing your tunes with “repetitive exercise is associated with increased levels of work output.” For instance, a slow and steady beat might be more helpful for a weight-lifting session, while something with a faster tempo would be ideal for an aerobic workout. You might even consider which songs motivate you the most to tackle that hill on your run and which help you run at a faster pace on the straightaways.
  • Do your musical homework in advance. As you gear up to incorporate more music into your routine, take some time to create playlists and maybe even venture outside of your typical line-up. Find songs that really inspire you and update your playlist accordingly. With some advanced preparation, you’ll be ready to make the most out of your workout!

Follow our blog today for all your JUICY TIPS & more!!

Lose Weight This Year with Nutrisystem

Lose the Weight This Year with Nutrisystem

Happy New Year! Now’s the time to lose the weight and become your healthiest self. Whether you have significant weight to lose or just want to shed a few pesky pounds that showed up over the holidays, the new year is a great time to tackle your weight loss goals. Nothing says clean slate like tossing last year’s calendar in the trash and hanging up a brand new one.

But if you’re like most people, setting a goal and putting a plan into motion are two very different things. Even for those who get off to a good start, life can end up getting in the way. For a weight loss resolution, that could mean finding yourself reverting back to old eating habits or skipping workout sessions. Without structure and support, it can be really hard to keep working toward those healthy living goals.

Trust us; we get it. Here’s the good news: The Nutrisystem weight loss program was designed for people like you–people who want to lose weight but aren’t exactly sure the best way to go about doing it.

Together, Let’s Make 2020 The Best Year Yet!

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With Nutrisystem, you’ll be set up for success from day one. Research suggests that eating smaller, balanced meals throughout the day promotes greater weight loss and maintenance. On the Nutrisystem weight loss program, you’ll be doing just that. You’ll be eating a variety of guilt-free, nutrient-dense foods every two to three hours. Enjoy a mix of Nutrisystem breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks along with some of your favorite grocery add-ins like fruits and veggies.

And because we know that any weight loss meal plan that’s overly restrictive is bound to fail, we’ve also built Flex™ meals into our program. These are healthy meals you prepare at home (with our guidance!) or order while dining out. Flex meals give you the freedom you crave while keeping you moving along toward your weight loss goals.

And here’s the best part: Because everyone knows that weight loss isn’t always a one size fits all approach, Nutrisystem now offers personalized weight loss plans! With this option, you can receive a weight loss meal plan that’s based on your activity goals, food preferences and body type.

So, how much weight can you actually lose on our program? If you stick with your Nutrisystem meal plan, you can lose up to 18 pounds and 10 inches in your first two months!*

Ready to start the clock? Follow us today!

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Want a little more info before you take the pound-trimming plunge? Here’s everything you need to know about losing weight with Nutrisystem:

What You Get

lose the weight

We know how eager you are to see results after starting a weight loss program. That’s why we include our Body Reboot kit in your first shipment. This kit contains everything you need for your first week on the program and is formulated to deliver fast weight loss results.**

In the Body Reboot kit, you’ll find:

  • 7 shakes packed with protein and probiotics
  • 7 days of specially selected breakfasts, lunches and dinners
  • 7 days of tasty snacks designed to help curb your hunger
  • A helpful Quick Start Guide to help maximize your results

In addition to your Body Reboot kit, your shipment will include your Nutrisystem meals and snacks for the remainder of the month. If you selected our Basic package, you’ll get our most popular picks. If you opted for one of our other packages, your shipment will include the foods you hand-picked when ordering.

You’ll also have access to our awesome weight loss app, NuMi. NuMi is the perfect companion to your weight loss program since you can use it to track what you’re eating, how much you’re moving, how much water you’re drinking and more. And don’t forget to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages! We offer up tons of tips and tricks for navigating the program plus awesome giveaways and exclusive offers.

Of course, you’ll also want to check back here daily since The Leaf is your healthy hub! We are always adding fresh content, Flex meal recipes and fool-proof tips for making the most of your Nutrisystem weight loss program.

What You Do

lose the weight

During your first week, we keep it super simple. You’ll eat only those foods included in your Body Reboot kit–breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack and shakes. Just enjoy the foods provided, referring to your Quick Start Guide for assistance navigating week one. The only things that you will have to add are non-starchy vegetables and water.

Once you’ve completed your first week (congrats!), you will continue losing weight with Nutrisystem® meals and snacks. Every food item is color-coded so you know if it’s intended for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack. Since all of the food has been formulated to deliver weight loss results, you can feel free to choose any of the breakfast items in the morning, any lunch that sounds appealing during your mid-day meal and any dinner you are in the mood for. You don’t have to stick with certain meals on certain days. This helps to ensure that this experience is an enjoyable one. After all, the best weight loss plan is the one you can stick with!

After your first week on the Nutrisystem weight loss program, you’ll also start to add in a few of your favorite grocery foods (think fruits, veggies, nuts and nut butters, eggs, etc.). Plus, you’ll get to enjoy Flex meals–healthy meals you enjoy cooking at home or ordering out at your favorite restaurant. Don’t worry, we will give you all the guidance you need to make smart and healthy selections. That’s what our weight loss blog, The Leaf, is for! And get this; you can even relax with a glass of wine while on the Nutrisystem weight loss program.

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Does it Work

lose the weight

One look at all of our awesome Success Stories and you’ll know; Nutrisystem works. And not in the quick fix, crash diet kind of way. Our customers tell us all the time that they love Nutrisystem because it’s a sustainable lifestyle after you lose the weight. Even when they’re ready for life after our weight loss program, they are successful because they’ve mastered the skills they need to eat healthy for life.

Are you ready to become our next weight loss success story? Follow our blog today!!

   In a study on the standard Nutrisystem plan, avg weight loss was 15.4 lbs and 9.8 inches.

   In a study, avg weight loss was 5.4 lbs in the first week. The average weight for the study participants was 207.3 lbs. Results vary based on starting weight and program adherence.

   Usage of this kit for more than one week in any consecutive 4-week period may lead to health complications and is not recommended. Please be sure to eat all of the food recommended for this program. Failure to follow the program protocol and eat all of the food recommended may involve developing serious health complications. If you have diabetes, are under 18 years of age, are pregnant or a nursing mother, or following a specialized diet for health issues, you may not use this kit. Please consult your physician before purchasing (or beginning) this kit.

Nutrisystem Shakes: Delicious Shake Recipes For You

 

Simple to prep: check! Easy for on-the-go: absolutely! And the perfect choice when you need a little something sweet and healthy to satisfy a grumbling belly. If that’s not reason enough to try Nutrisystem shakes, then keep reading to find out all the reasons why these protein-packed super shakes are a must-try!

They’re decadent and delicious. Whether you live in the all-chocolate, all-the-time camp, or are more of a flavor purist, these shakes are made to please. With the chocolate shake, you get rich and nutrients in every sip; or opt for the vanilla shake for some smooth and creamy goodness. If you want to flip-flop between flavors, go for full indulgence with this combo pack.

They help shrink your belly. That’s because our shakes contain probiotics—good bacteria that help your digestive system do its job. The added bonus of probiotics: less belly bloating.

They help burn fat! You read that right. Nutrisystem’s Protein and Probiotic shakes are made with a compound called chromium, which has been shown to help reduce body fat, as part of a healthy diet and exercise program.*

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They’re packed with powerful nutrition. You get 22 vitamins and minerals per sip, to be specific. What you won’t get in our shakes: artificial sweeteners, flavors, soy or gluten.

They help fight hunger. With a whopping 15 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber, these shakes are formulated to help keep you feeling fuller, longer. Plus, they are perfectly portioned for weight loss, with only 120 calories per serving. On Nutrisystem, they count as one PowerFuel.

Now, check out eight recipes using our shakes that pack in the protein (and flavor!):

1. Black Forest “Milkshake”

black forest milkshake

Filled with chocolate flavors and complemented by a hint of cherry, this Black Forest “Milkshake” is the perfect protein-filled pick to start your day the healthy way.

2. Berry Delicious Smoothie

berry delicious shake

This filling shake combines the flavors of berries and banana with a vanilla shake for a refreshing and filling smoothie so sweet and delicious, you’ll want to make it over and over again.

3. Pumpkin Latte Super Shake

pumpkin latte

If you’re a pumpkin lover, you’re going to want to bookmark this recipe. Filled with pumpkin flavor and blended to creamy perfection thanks to a Nutrisystem shake, this latte-inspired smoothie packs in the vitamins and deliciousness for a pumpkin-filled breakfast.

4. Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

chocolate peanut butter

Chocolate and peanut butter is a classic combo, and this shake adds in a hint of banana to make this protein-packed shake a must-try for those on-the-go mornings.

5. Mango Madness Green Smoothie

mango madness

Filled with greens and sweet mango, this fruity smoothie will fill you up the Nutrisystem-approved way thanks to our NutriCrush® Protein and Probiotic Shakes.

6. Mint Chocolate Smoothie

mint chocolate smoothie

If mint chocolate chip is your favorite ice cream, then we’ve got the perfect (and healthy!) alternative that you can enjoy guilt free. Packed with protein, chocolate and minty flavors, this hearty shake is bound to become a menu regular.

7. Piña Colada Protein Smoothie

pina colada

This sweet and fruity smoothie will whisk you away to tropical bliss with zero guilt. A combination of pineapple, coconut and a vanilla Nutrisystem shake makes for a creamy protein shake that will keep you feeling full all morning.

8. Chocolate Lover Smoothie

freshstart shakes

This recipe is a chocolate lover’s dream come true—filled with chocolate and a scoop of peanut butter, this four-ingredient recipe is a healthy way to curb your chocolate cravings.

 

How to Feed Your Hungriest House-guests During the Holidays

You know that scene at the beginning of Home Alone where the house is total chaos and the entire extended family is grabbing pizza off the counter? There’s something about it that immediately fills me with holiday spirit. Or how about the dinner scene in The Family Stone — as uncomfortable as it is to watch, I still kinda want to spend the holidays with that big, crazy family despite their total dysfunction. But any of us who have actually hosted overnight guests knows that it’s no small feat to keep everyone’s needs met around the clock, especially during the holidays.

One of my favorite cookbooks of the year, Every Day Is Saturday (and no I will not stop talking about it) swept in with the EXACT low-key solutions I’ve been needing to feed overnight guests without breaking a sweat. I begged author Sarah Copeland (@edibleliving) to let me spill her hosting secrets in an excerpt from the book here, and in true holiday spirit, she agreed. Read on for Sarah’s genius advice, and pick up your copy of the book right here.

from Sarah:

I love a full house. When we first bought a house, after many years of living in the world’s smallest apartment in New York City, we had a table for eight for the first time in my adult life.

That year, I invited friends to stay almost every weekend. I loved all our raucous, late-night dinners, with wine and kids and music and laughter all thrown in the mix. Even more, I loved waking up under the same roof, and gathering again, still in pajamas, for the first meal of the day.
But feeding houseguests isn’t for the meek; it takes planning and grace. Especially if one houseguest in particular isn’t just hungry, he’s staaarving (in his southern Missouri twang). He might be related to me.

My dad is an emphatic man. I love this about him. When my mom makes dinner, he’ll smack and lick his lips wildly, saying, “Honey, honey, honey! This is deli¬cious!” (It took me years to stop expecting everyone else to do the same.) He chips in to set the table, helps with the dishes, is a pro at feeding toddlers. In short: He’s an ideal, jovial house-guest. But when he’s hungry, nothing can curb his zeal for the next meal.

It’s not his fault. My grandmother—his mother—was a legendary host who seemed to be able to do it all: raise six kids, put three hot meals on the table each day, and even go back to college, with her two youngest in tow. Well into her eighties, there were often twenty people under her roof for whole weekends at a time. I’d wake up when the sun was just starting to glow through the attic windows where I slept. Downstairs, I could hear her sausage patties snapping against the fat in a cast-iron pan, the smell of fresh biscuits and gravy wafting up the steep, narrow steps. I’d run down, eager to help, but the table was already laid with rose-patterned china, heaped high with biscuits, homemade jellies, and velvety scrambled eggs. In the kitchen, my grandfather would stand beside her, following orders while she stirred orange juice in her squat glass pitcher, with a pinch of sugar. It’s how she served up all of life.

On my best days, I am like my grandma. Most days, though, I’m just human.

Enthusiasm for food runs in the family. To wit: my son, Mátyás. At three years old, his first words at 5 a.m. are “I’m hungry.” He bursts into tears if he doesn’t deem his portion as large as his father’s. And if I take too long getting down to the kitchen, I might find him in his diaper in front of the refrigerator, raw zucchini in one hand and a fistful of berries in the other, eyeing the shelves for what to eat next.

Once, I had bounding toddler-like energy, too, but since I had kids, I’ve adopted my husband’s groggy, pajama-clad saunter to the kitchen, what I now affectionately call the slow start. Trying to beat a hearty appetite to the punch every time is asking for a fail.

The fact is, feeding people—even people you love dearly—could be a chore. But it doesn’t have to be. You could rise in the wee hours, as my grandmother did. You could get help from take-out or resort to less healthy, more filling foods. Or, like me, you might find the art of baiting your home with DIY offerings a bit more your style. Consider this your host-with-the-most free pass.

How to Feed Your Hungriest Houseguests (Without Lifting a Whisk)

– Always keep fresh bread and butter in the house. Before you go to bed, set the bread (wrapped in a tea towel), a small dish of butter, and a jar of jelly with a spoon out on a tray on the kitchen counter for early risers. Keep a second, tightly wrapped loaf or two of bread in the freezer for emergencies.

– Create a DIY muesli station with jars of muesli, dried fruit, a stack of bowls, and a mug filled with clean spoons. Leave a “Help yourself, milk and yogurt are in the fridge” note nearby to cue self-service.

– Keep ample bowls of grab-and-go fruits like apples, bananas, pears, and clementines on the counter at the ready. Ditto jars of shelled nuts like cashews, pistachios, almonds, or walnuts.

– Create an organized coffee and tea station (as simple as one drawer, fully stocked, with a stack of mugs nearby) in your house and give guests a full round-the-clock invitation to self-serve.

– Stock jars of apple chips or dried fruit in living areas, where people can enjoy a healthy-ish nibble in private.

– Keep clasped jars of chocolate-covered almonds or trail mix on the counter-top, with a help-yourself policy. (Kids usually need help with portion control.) Don’t fill the jar with your whole stash, which may disappear; hide half, and refill as needed.

– Keep cookie dough in the refrigerator or freezer for quick baking.

Serve cheese. (It’s filling.)

sarah copeland on how to host overnight guests from everyday is saturdayGet this book for yourself

Overnight Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls

ingredients


for the rolls:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon brown sugar
3/4 cup warm whole milk
4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
1 egg
1/3 cup molasses
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

for the cinnamon sugar filling:
6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg OR ground cloves (use your favorite or both)

for the frosting:
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or the seeds from 1/2 a vanilla bean

instructions


1. Place the yeast and brown sugar into a stand mixer with the dough hook attached. Add the warm milk and gently stir. Let sit until the dough is puffed and foamy on top, about 10 minutes. To the bowl add the melted butter, egg, and molasses, stir to combine. Add in the flour and salt. Knead the dough with the dough hook until the dough is smooth and forms a ball, about 5 minutes. Remove the dough from the bowl. Oil the bowl or use cooking spray to coat. Place the dough back into the bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. To make the sugar filling, add the sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to a new bowl and mix well.

3. Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, or a dish slightly smaller, with butter.

4. Lightly dust a work surface with flour. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 9×24 inches). Spread the butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the butter and lightly push the mix into the butter. Starting with the long edge closest to you, carefully roll the dough into a log, keeping it fairly tight as you go. When you reach the edge, pinch along the edge to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 10-12 rolls. Place rolls in the prepared baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and transfer to the fridge to rise overnight.

5. In the morning, remove the rolls from the fridge and allow them to come to room temp while the oven preheats, about 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 350. Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

6. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and beat until combined. Beat in vanilla. Spread the frosting onto the warm rolls. EAT!

Like and follow this blog for more amazing sweet recipes for your friends and family!

Why Your Stomach Always Hurts

Do you find yourself telling others you have a “sensitive stomach”? Skipping out on invitations where meals are involved? Locking yourself in the office bathroom in agony every day after lunch? If so, you might be one of the millions of Americans suffering from IBS. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is an extremely common condition that affects 10-25% of our population. According to Danielle Capalino, MSPH, RD Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist, it particularly affects young women. Danielle has dedicated her career to studying the relationship between the brain and the gut, and loves nothing more than helping people suffering from digestive issues reclaim their bodies (and their social lives.) She’s also the author of the new book, Healthy Gut, Flat Stomach. 

If you suffer from common upset stomach, read on to discover Danielle’s insight on what causes IBS and her tips for steps you can take to take control of your body and start feeling better every day.

What special training or experience do you have that makes you an expert in your field?

I completed my undergraduate studies in Brain and Cognitive Science at MIT, because I’m fascinated by the brain. I continued my graduate studies at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health where I delved into the science of the digestive health, the microbiome, and the deep connection between the gut and the brain. I sought out every opportunity to work and learn more about the gut. After graduating, I started a private practice specializing in helping people attain digestive wellness. Since then I’ve continued to work with this population and have written two books on the topic as well.

What do you love about what you do?

I love the combination of staying on top of the latest science of the microbiome, figuring out new ways to communicate this complex information to people, and of course I love the satisfaction of changing people’s lives for the better. It’s very gratifying to be able to help someone — particularly when they suffer from digestive issues that alter their daily lives. Many of my patients avoid social activities out of fear or embarrassment when I first meet them, and then are able to return happily to their social lives.

Beautiful and sporty girl in a kitchen with a vegetables Free Photo

In your experience, how common are chronic digestive problems in young women?

Very common! Statistics show that within the US population, 10-25% of people suffer from IBS (which is the most common chronic functional digestive issue.) Even if the low end is most accurate, that’s still 1 in 10 people, which is a lot! My clients tend to skew toward women in general, and young women in particular. I think there are several reasons for this.

Woman hand writing note pad on wood table in coffee shop Premium Photo

We’ve heard a lot about IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) on TV from pharmaceutical companies promoting prescription medicines meant to treat chronic upset stomach. Is IBS a real thing? How do you know if you have it?

Yes! IBS Is very much a real thing. I think some people are dismissive of the label because they hear it so much — but if you think about it, the reason you hear it is because it’s so common. IBS is a functional digestive disorder, which means that it’s not something you can see with your eyes. The way it’s diagnosed is if your symptoms meet a specific criteria rather than seeing something on a scan or in your blood. Your doctor might want to rule out other potential causes for your discomfort before landing on IBS as a diagnosis.

So, what causes chronic upset stomach? And what are the best first steps to treating it?

There are many potential causes of chronic upset stomach, but one that’s very common and tends to get overlooked is food sensitivities. Food sensitivities are different than allergies (which can be tested in your blood.) Elimination diets are a very effective tool in identifying foods that trigger chronic digestive issues. I spend most of my time working with people on the low-FODMAP diet, which is a specific type of elimination that takes out certain carbohydrates (but not all carbohydrates!) temporarily, and then guide my clients through reintroducing them to figure out what specific foods are bothering them.

Is it true that all adults are somewhat lactose intolerant since our bodies stop producing the enzymes required to break down milk after infancy?

No, not all adults are lactose intolerant. It’s difficult to estimate a real statistic for this because of inconsistencies in testing and self-diagnosis, but lactose intolerance is quite common. Lactose is made up of two sugars and it requires an enzyme to break it apart in order to be digested. Some people (either genetically or due to illness) will become deficient in the enzyme (lactose,) which is needed to break down lactose. For example, it’s possible to be temporarily lactose intolerance after a bout of a stomach virus or infection.

For those of us who suffer from frequent stomachaches, there are certain types of food that almost always spell disaster (specifically: greasy, spicy, and diary-rich). Do we have to just cut out fun things like craw fish boils and milkshakes forever? Or is there a way to teach our bodies to tolerate those foods better?

If you have a sensitive stomach it really is best to avoid greasy, spicy, rich foods — though our tolerances do change over time to some extent. There are things you can do like take over-the-counter digestive enzymes (including lactose) to help digest foods, but it’s not a surefire way to eat whatever you want.

That’s great news. What else can we do to naturally battle IBS?

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1. Write it down!

Keep a food and symptom log so that you can begin to notice trends between what you are eating and how you are feeling. If you work with a Registered Dietitian like myself this is very useful information to help us.

2. Try a FODMAP elimination diet.

If you’ve been to a doctor and ruled out other causes for your symptoms, you may have a food sensitivity. FODMAPs are specific types of carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest. You can work with a Registered Dietitian like myself to help you identify high FODMAP foods in your diet and take them out temporarily to see if it helps to relieve your symptoms. You may be surprised by the list of high FODMAP foods which include things like apples, mangoes, honey, onions, beans and garlic.

3. Avoid artificial sweeteners.

Many foods that are advertised as sugar-free are loaded with sugar alcohols which can really wreak havoc on your gut. Cut out artificial sweeteners, particularly those that end in the letters “ol” from your diet.

4. Eat more fiber.

Making sure you’re eating foods with sufficient fiber is a big part of making sure that your system is running on track. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are all good sources of fiber.

Healthy bacteria that is good for your gut is a key part of a healthy digestive system. You can get probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut or kimchi, and also by taking probiotic supplements.

You can book an appointment with Danielle on her website here, and be sure and check out her new book Healthy Gut, Flat Stomach!

Get your stomach ache relief supplements here>>