sugar

We all know how important cleansing and exfoliating the face is, especially after a long day. That said, did you know it becomes harder for our skin to naturally rid itself of dead skin cells as we age? Instead of turning to expensive, high-end exfoliators (which probably contain drying, harmful chemicals, by the way), here are 4 natural ways to exfoliate your skin. These will not only be better for your skin, but also save you a buck. In fact, most of them are probably already in your pantry. I recommend experimenting with each one to discover which you like best.

If you think your pancreas is not particularly important, think again. A healthy pancreas is essential for a healthy digestion; so here’s what to eat to make your pancreas function at its optimum…

If you’re following a strictly plant-based diet, you’re probably aware of how difficult it can be to decipher whether or not a packaged food is vegan. Many people assume that products that don’t contain meat, butter, cheese, or eggs are surely vegan; however, unfortunately, it is much more complicated than that.

There are so very many reasons why more and more people are trading in the well-known white sugar, also known as table sugar, for natural sugar and other natural sweeteners. Some people seek a healthier lifestyle, whether by choice or medical necessity, while others may simply choose by taste or preference.

Chapped, dry lips? I get it. Winter has a knack for drying skin out, especially lips. Lips are ultra sensitive to everything, so it makes sense that they get hit the hardest by cold, dry weather. That said, your lips can still get dry or chapped in the warmer months too! To keep them in the best condition, I recommend making a lip scrub and lip balm for them. Making your own won’t only be rewarding and fun, but cheaper, too. (Not to mention you’ll know what’s in them.)  Most of the things you’ll need to make each one can be bought in any grocery or health food store.

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.

If you only know sugar for its sweet reputation, you’re in for a rude awakening. For anyone who abstains from consuming animals and their byproducts, or may be easily grossed out, finding out that the tantalizing sweet stuff may not be suitable for strict vegans could come as quite a shock. Personally, accidentally discovering this tidbit of information about five years ago was definitely a doozy.

There truly is an art to creating a fine tasting bottle of wine. Wine is the art of fermenting fruits and berries in water with sugars and yeasts.

While others curse its arrival in spring, I applaud it. The spunky little dandelion is a first flower for nectar-hunting honeybees. It pains me to see homeowners yank it from their yards, not only because they are eradicating an important food source for pollinating insects, but because the little plants can offer so much before their fluffy seeds are scattered to the wind!

It’s officially the holiday season, and that means cookies! Try this simple sugar cookie recipe for a full day of frosting and decorating with friends and family. The options are endless: fun shapes, colorful sprinkles and flavorful frostings are just a few of the many ideas to explore! 

Vegan Sugar Cookies

*Makes about 20 cookies

Supplies

1 Large Cookie Sheet

Ingredients

1 cup Vegan Butter (softened)

¾ cup White Sugar

1 Tablespoon White Vinegar