Ah, the humble PB and J. The sweet and peanut-y sandwich combination that continues to win the hearts of kindergarteners and adults alike. These days you can find peanut butter and jelly in everything, such as pancakes, cupcakes, ice cream, even poutine!
Chia is a species of the sage plant which produces pods filled with tiny seeds. It is a New World plant that has long been used by the Native Peoples of Central America, northern South America and southwestern North America. The term chia is the Aztec word for strength. When soaked in water, it changes into a gelatin-like consistency that was used to make refreshing drinks and porridges. The Aztecs also dried and ground the seeds to make flour for baking breads. They sprouted the seeds for salads and sprinkled them on many dishes and stored the seeds for future use.
When you are following a restrictive diet (maybe you are gluten-free, vegan or diabetic), it can be hard to find snacks that are healthy, taste good and are easy to take on the go. I used to buy all kinds of granola bars, dried fruit snacks, protein bars, etc. But eventually I found out I was spending a lot of money on these packaged snacks when I could easily make my own. Not only is it healthier to make your own tasty treats, but it's easier on the wallet too! These superfood granola bites only took 15 minutes to make and before I knew it, I was munchin' away on some tasty bites!
Excellent health involves many variables and factors like proper nutrition, regular exercise, spending quality time with loved ones and/or engaging in some type of fun recreation activity. However, one of the most important factors in having vibrant health is rest and deep relaxation. Our modern, industrial lives are busier than ever with many of us skipping out on getting enough quality sleep.
Carving Pumpkins? Save Your Seeds!
Wheat germ is the reproductive part of a grain of wheat -- thus the term germ, meaning to germinate, which left to grow becomes wheat grass. It contains the most fat of the grain and is also the most nutrient rich. It has valuable health benefits, including preventing several major diseases, as well as aiding many other physical and mental functions.
Electrolytes are what keep us going. These ionized minerals send electrically charged signals throughout our body, allowing cells to function. Without them, our cells would not be able to communicate and our body would shut down. Rigorous exercise can cause electrolyte loss via sweating. If you are tempted to grab a sugary, neon-colored sports drink to rehydrate, stop! The best way to replenish electrolytes is through food. Look to one of these food sources if you are in need of an electrolyte boost of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.
Calcium
A native of India, organic sesame seed is rich in vitamins and minerals and has been used as a healing herb for millennia. The plant is a tall annual of the Pedaliaceae family growing up to five feet and bearing pink-white foxglove-like flowers. The pods contain white, brown or black seeds arranged in vertical rows. The plant flourishes in well-drained sandy soil in a tropical climate and can be found throughout Asia and Africa. Though not used as extensively in Europe, the plant found its way to America with the slave traders and has been cultivated in the Carolinas.
We all have those days when finding energy throughout the day is as hard to find as a needle in a haystack. You know -- those mornings when you just can’t seem to get yourself up and motivated. Stop reaching for the caffeine and sugary snacks; they’re not what your body really needs. Take a look at these five ways to naturally boost your energy.
We have all had to deal with sore, stiff, and achy muscles – they’re a fact of life. It is nice to know there are foods you can add to or increase in your diet to help ease your pain. Any foods that provide a substantial amount of magnesium are great for the muscles. Magnesium maintains proper nerve and normal muscle function.
Here is my list of 7 Natural Muscle Healers and Relaxers: