It might be almost back-to-school time, but that summer sunshine is still shining brightly in a lot of places. And even when it’s not, those UV rays can sneak through clouds and chilly weather. While a little sunshine is certainly good for your vitamin D levels, too much can lead to skin cancer, aging skin, and sun spots. You’re already
Need some beauteous help from nature? Try these really simple, but really effective masks that you can make with just two ingredients! Now, how cool is that?
It’s easy to write-off sweet baked goods, especially the kind that come in packages from the grocery or convenience store. Often laden with excess sugar, salt, and fat, the common baked good has been unfairly demonized. With the use of real fruit, good quality butter, and whole wheat flour, these Whole Wheat Banana Nut Muffins with Chocolate Chips are as good for the soul as they are for your health.
We all like to go on a healthy diet every now and then, and by a healthy diet, we mean eating healthy and banning sugar. That said, hunger can give birth to cravings and cravings can derail those healthy dietary changes in an instant…
Why do we crave junk food?
I’ve always loved to bake. During summertime, I’d bake nearly every day, out of sheer boredom. The problem was that once my older brother and sister had moved out of the house, there weren’t many people left to devour all of the tasty treats. So, I had to come up with a solution because I cannot watch things go to waste, and the calories were bound to catch up with me sooner or later; I mean I was pretty active, but definitely not that active.
Valentine’s Day is synonymous with fiery red cinnamon hearts and decadent truffles, not to mention sugar cookies, lava cake, and other sugar-rich treats. These sweets have their place, but if you’re looking to share the gift of health–without sacrificing taste–check the hydrogenated oils, chemical sweetener and preservatives at the door and make these goodies from scratch (and with love) instead.
As children, we were all guilty of slipping the family dog(s) some table scraps when nobody was looking. It’s harmless, right? Wrong. I know they’re your best friends, but you cannot let those big ol’ puppy eyes get to you. Many common foods that may be somewhat healthy for us can actually send your pets to the vet (or worse, unfortunately). You may be tempted to share the wealth of food with your furriest family members, but it’s in the best interests of all parties involved to just toss them their favorite dog treats.
After a season of overly sweet treats, these chocolate cookies are the perfect dessert. Adapted from bakerita, these cookies have no refined sugars but are just as good with a glass of milk.
Not sure what to give the free-thinker in your life?
“Alternative” people can be difficult to buy for considering we tend to gawk at the idea of “buying” presents. Consumerism is at its height during the holidays, but a lot of non-conformists (or anti-consumers) won’t set foot in a shopping mall, and have no interest in gifts from there, either. Here are seven stocking stuffer ideas for the free-thinkers in your family.
Cozy up with this delicious vegan drink after a cold winter day. Using rich dark chocolate and creamy almond milk, you can enjoy every bit of the classic taste you know from childhood. I add just a touch of peppermint extract to give it that minty holiday flavor, but you could easily substitute vanilla extract for a more subtle taste if you’re not a fan of mint. Either way, be sure to top it all off with a few vegan marshmallows or some coconut whipped cream for the full effect!
Vegan Hot Cocoa Recipe
*Serves one