Blog Category: Food

 Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fats that our bodies need to function properly, but did you know they can also provide a wealth of benefits when it comes to brain health? Many people are low in these essential nutrients. Let’s take a closer look at why omega 3 fatty acids are important for brain health and how they can help.

Omega 3 fatty acids are a type of fat made up of three main components, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).  These are essential fatty acids that your body cannot make on its own. These are found in foods such as salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, eggs, walnuts, flax seeds, hemp seed, chia seeds, algae, brussel sprouts, and some vegetable oils. They have been found to be associated with improved physical and mental health due to their anti-inflammatory properties.  It is important to note, that the ALA found in plant foods must be converted to EPA and DHA within the body, and some people have a low conversion rate, so getting EPA and DHA is important.  Algae is a fantastic vegan source of EPA and DHA.

Omega 3 fatty acids play an important role in maintaining healthy brain functions. They help support the development of new cells in the brain and aid in communication between neurons. Studies have shown that omega 3 fats have neuroprotective effects which can help protect against certain degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. Additionally, they have also been linked to improved memory and cognitive performance.

Besides helping with cognitive function, omega 3 fatty acids can also help reduce stress levels and improve mood by increasing serotonin production in the brain. This is because EPA has been found to increase dopamine production which is responsible for regulating emotions. Furthermore, DHA helps regulate inflammation which can be beneficial for emotional wellbeing. ALA helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress on the body which helps improve mood.

Overall, it’s clear that omega-3 fatty acids offer numerous benefits when it comes to brain health. Whether you’re looking to maintain mental clarity or improve your mood and emotional wellbeing, adding more omega-3 rich foods into your diet is a great way to promote overall well-being. And because most people are deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids, it is also beneficial to supplement.  I have a favorite vegan and non-vegan Omega 3 supplement, they both also have Vitamin D3 and CoQ10, among other beneficial ingredients and are very absorbable. Holistic moms should consider incorporating these essential fats into their family’s diet for improved physical and mental health!

When I was pregnant with my 7th child, I was depleted.  I was so exhausted that I was falling asleep at the dinner table every night.  A friend recommended this antioxidant drink to me, and I was desperate, so I tried it.  The very first day, I drank some in the afternoon just before my energy levels usually tanked. I went through the afternoon and surprisingly stayed awake through dinner. In fact, I was awake until 10, which was impossible before!  I never felt a rush, and I never had a crash; I just kept going.  I kept drinking it, and it had the same effect every day.  I drank a whole bottle during labor and delivery and then kept drinking it throughout my time breastfeeding. It was my lifesaver with such little sleep. I have not stopped drinking it because of its continued benefits!   

Are you looking for a healthy snack for your kids that won't leave them feeling sluggish? Look no further! Plant-based snacks are the perfect way to fuel your little ones with all the nutrients they need. From fruits and veggies to nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains, there is something delicious and nutritious to suit every occasion. 

Fruits and vegetables are some of the healthiest snacks around. Their natural sweetness makes them a great alternative to sugary treats, while their high fiber content ensures your kids (and you!) will stay fuller for longer. Try incorporating colorful fruits like watermelon or oranges into your kid's snack time routine, or serve up veggie sticks with hummus or guacamole as an after school treat. These are the best fast foods and can be prepared the night before for easy grab & go snacks the next day.

Nuts and seeds are another great plant-based snack option. Not only are they packed with vitamins and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, iron and vitamin E; but they also contain healthy proteins & fats that can help support brain development in growing children. Try offering trail mix with nuts and seeds as a tasty snack on the go, or bake up some energy balls made from peanut or almond butter, oats and dried fruit for a sweet treat that won't leave your little one bouncing off the walls afterwards! 

  

Like nuts and seeds, beans provide plenty of essential vitamins and minerals but are also high in protein and fiber - making them an ideal snack choice for active children who need fuel throughout the day. Serve up some homemade bean dip with vegetable sticks or pita bread; make a batch of homemade hummus; or try out some quinoa bowls topped with roasted veggies! For an extra boost of nutrition, look out for whole grain options with brown rice or oatmeal instead of refined grains like white bread or pasta. 

With so many delicious plant-based snacks to choose from, it's never been easier to give your kids the nutrition they need without sacrificing taste! Whether you're looking for something quick on the go or something more substantial after school, there's sure to be something that suits their needs - not to mention yours! So take a break from processed snacks and try something new today - your kids will thank you later!

Have picky eaters?  Grab this guide:  7 Strategies to Help Picky Eaters Eat!

Do you want to get your daily dose of vitamin D without relying on fortified foods or supplements? If so, you’re in luck! There are plenty of natural ways to get your daily intake.  Obviously, getting out in the sun is a fabulous way to get Vitamin D; there are some foods you can eat to get it, too.  Read on for some tips and tricks to get the vitamin D you need straight from the source.

Cod liver oil is one of the best sources of natural vitamin D and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. It can be taken orally in liquid form or as a capsule supplement. It also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for overall health and wellness.

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, sardines, and anchovies, all contain high levels of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating these types of fish regularly will help you get your daily intake of both vitamins and minerals.  Make sure they are wild caught, as the farm raised fish have contamination. My favorite non-vegan Omega 3 supplement also has Vitamin D3 and CoQ10.

Egg yolks are also an excellent source of natural vitamin D and can be consumed raw or cooked in various dishes. Egg yolks are also rich in protein and other nutrients like iron, calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

Aside from getting enough sun, these are just a few simple ways to get your daily dose of vitamin D naturally without having to rely on fortified foods or supplements. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is always a good idea, since they contain small amounts of natural Vitamin D that can add up over time if you’re consistent with it. Looking for Vegan Sources of Vitamin D?  I wrote about them here.  So keep these tips in mind when planning out your meals and snack times! Holistic moms everywhere will thank you for it down the line!

 If you’re like me, a holistic mom who loves a good snack but doesn’t want to break the bank, then this blog post is for you. I love snacking on cannellini bean dip, but it’s expensive to buy pre-made in the store. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and whip up a homemade batch that is both delicious and economical. Keep reading to learn how. 

To make your homemade cannellini bean dip, you will need 2 cans of cannelini beans (drained and rinsed), 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic (minced or finely chopped), 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. 

2 cans cannellini beans, rinsed & drained

1/4 cup olive oil, vegetable broth or water

1-2 cloves of garlic

2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/8 teaspoon  (or a bit less) ground black pepper 

The first step is to put all the ingredients into a food processor or blender. Make sure everything is blended until it reaches a smooth consistency. You may need to add more olive oil if the mixture looks too thick. Once everything is blended together nicely, serve raw or transfer the mixture into an ovenproof bowl and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius) for 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly on top. 

Once finished baking, let cool before serving with some warm pita bread or vegetables. Enjoy! This cannellini bean dip recipe also makes great leftovers which can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. 

There you have it—the ultimate guide on how to make your own delicious homemade bean dip cannelini! Not only does this recipe save you money, but it also allows you to customize your dip according to your own taste preferences by adding different herbs or spices of your choice. Plus, it’s healthier than store-bought versions because there are no preservatives or artificial flavors added. Now that I know how easy it is to make this tasty snack at home, I don’t think I’ll ever buy pre-made again! Enjoy!