LOVE YOUR LIVER [PART II]

THE POWER THAT MADE THE BODY HEALS THE BODY

BJ PALMER
 
 

I wanted to touch back in with you after last weeks article (Love Your LIver ~ Part I) to remind you that detoxifying your body (specifically your liver) doesn't have to be daunting (or a horrible experience).


In fact, I am a firm believer that all of the goodness found in natural, pure and seasonal foods can be turned into delicious spring alchemy with just a little bit of practice. 


I put together a few of my favorites for you today, but I also really want you to know that this is just the tip of the iceberg.


Yes, adjusting your palate to natural food (instead of processed foods, if that’s what you are used to) can take a small bit of time, but once you do, you will begin to recognize and enjoy the full flavors of whole foods, natural sweeteners, and pure ingredients –– all the building blocks your body needs for health and radiance.


If you know me, you know I live the pleasure principle every day. I make a point of it because I both want to enjoy all the nuances of daily life and I also want to feel my best.


Guilt-free comfort food is my answer.  🙋‍♀️


Here’s to letting your kitchen creativity soar this spring.


Eat Well!

 

{DAIRY FREE} MASSAGED KALE CAESAR

MARINATED SLOW ROASTED RAINBOW BEET SALAD

LEMON TURMERIC {GRAIN FREE} SNACKING CAKE

P.S. Need a little help? I've got you covered. Click here to get customized support through my spring CLEANSE-OLOGY Program.

P.P.S. Stay tune for part III coming to you soon.

{DAIRY FREE} MASSAGED KALE CAESAR

{DAIRY FREE} MASSAGED KALE CAESAR

Yes, there are about 1000 ways to enjoy kale (that most people love) and this is one! Massaging the kale is an interesting practice, if you haven’t tried it. You literally get right in there with your kale, and massage it until it naturally wilts and the fibers breakdown. (so much better than raw kale!)

While I make so many versions of massaged kale salad (feel free to try your own), this one is usually a hit - especially amid those who are new to kale.

Massage up a batch and see for yourself.

Kale has one of the highest ORAC values (levels of antioxidants) of any plant you can eat plus this rich leafy green helps reduce inflammation and cleanse your liver!

SLOW ROASTED RAINBOW BEET SALAD

SLOW ROASTED RAINBOW BEET SALAD

By now, you may have realized that I am a bit obsessed with beets. All sort, all colors of beets. This is a super tasty and pretty warm beet salad that hits the spots and supports your liver all those detoxification phases to help you to feel your best.

The betaine found in beets encourages your liver to rid the body of toxins. 

Make up a batch ahead of time and munch on this tasty side dish or meal (if you add the nuts and seeds for some protein) all week long.

LEMON TURMERIC {GRAIN FREE} SNACKING CAKE

LEMON TURMERIC {GRAIN FREE} SNACKING CAKE

I know it is hard to believe we are including CAKE here in this cleansing themed time, but I also want you to know that with healthy and natural ingredients, you can create oodles of guilt-free comfort foods.

We chose lemon because lemon is known to cleanse the liver, and turmeric because of it’s superior anti-inflammatory properties all blending with this delicious and baking friendly coconut flour.

I promise, you won’t be disapointed!!

7 WAYS TO LOVE YOUR LIVER {PART I}

GLOW GETTER:  A DRIVEN BUSY GAL WHO STRIVES TO ACHIEVE HER GOALS IN LIFE WHILE ATTAINING A BEAUTIFUL GLOW BOTH INSIDE AND OUT

Are you ready to get your glow on?

In the spring, according to Traditional Medicine, it is the time to tend to the liver. When we allow the spring to influence our diets, we will create a deep well of spring within, and a radiant glow. 

A healthy liver establishes a smooth flow through your entire being –– body, mind and soul. People with healthy and clear livers are said to be more calm, peaceful and relaxed.

I put together some simple daily practices and ingredients for you to check out –– from a functional nutrition perspective –– that enhance detoxification, and will leave you feeling lighter, clearer and energized while also ensuring you enjoy the process with some yummy recipes and foodie delights to boot. (Stay tuned for part II!)



... because taking care of your health doesn’t have to suck 🙌

Before we dive in, I wanted to take you on a little walk through your liver detoxification process. A short, simple and sweet distillation, just to be sure you get the gist.

There are three important phases of detoxification to take note of: 

• In phase 1, the liver supports the first line of defense against toxicity. In this phase the liver breaks down toxins through oxidation.

• In phase 2, the liver-toxins that have been altered in phase 1 can now be conjugated (or linked to a molecule that will allow its excretion). This process is reliant on adequate nutrients, phytonutrients, antioxidants, and protein. *if you are doing a liquid cleanse, it takes about 2 days until your body will start to breakdown muscle mass.

• In Phase 3, the body prepares to transport the toxins to the elimination organs. There is a need for adequate hydration and elimination for this part to work. 
  

There are some specific ways you can support your liver this spring. While a deep cleanse is always an option, I know it can fell intimidating and restrictive for many of you.


I put together some simple ingredients and daily practices for you to check out –– from a functional nutrition perspective –– that enhance detoxification, and will leave you feeling lighter, clearer and energized while also ensuring you enjoy the process with some yummy recipes and foodie delights to boot. (Stay tuned for part II!)

I hope you enjoy these easy and do-able tips and tricks that will support you in getting your glow on this spring!

Here are a few ingredients to explore in your diet and in your life. While you surely don’t have to choose all of them, filling up your life with a variety these detoxifying ingredients and practices will support your health.

PLANTS

Fill half your plate with a variety of these plants-based foods (organic please) to ensure your liver is supported in the detoxification process.

• Leafy Greens:  kale, Swiss chard, watercress, cilantro, beet greens, dandelion, spouts and mustard greens

• Brassica: Radish, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, kale

• Sulfur-rich foods: garlic, onions

• Citrus: oranges, lemons and limes (avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, which slows Phase 1)

• Love your liver superfoods: artichoke, asparagus, beets, celery, dandelion greens, arugula greens, and dandelion-root tea, nettles, fermented vegetables.

PROTEINS

Now you know for a successful detox (with all the phases rolling along smoothly) you need a good source of protein at every meal. In fact, protein is a cornerstone of detoxification. Here are a few (plant and animal) options to explore, all rich in an important detoxification amino acid called methionine.

• Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios, sesame and pumpkin seeds to name a few. One study showed a decrease in liver enzymes with a healthy dose of nuts each day. As always, best to soak and roast before eating for best absorption and assimilation.

• Non GMO Soy: The best versions include are tempeh, natto, and miso because they are fermented and the easiest to digest.

• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, beans of sorts digest (and assimilate) better when soaked overnight (for approximately 8 hours) before cooking.

• Free range eggs:  Eat the whole egg. The yolk contains most of the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and omega-3 fats.

• Wild caught salmon: High omega-3 content supports a healthy liver

• Grass-fed buffalo or beef: The oils in grass fed beef and buffalo (omega-3 and CLA) are much healthier and grass-fed varieties are also full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, many of which support healthy liver detoxification.

• Pasture range, hormone free Chicken or Turkey: These varieties are more nutrient dense and of course the animals were treated better.

• Hormone free raw dairy: (if tolerated) Yes, butter is back in (with the health trends) and grass-fed dairy is the kind to look for. High in omega-3’s and A2 milk (the protein type found in grass-fed) is also a wonderful source of glutathione, and important ingredient in liver detoxification.

• Grass-fed Liver: I know it’s a stretch, but for those of you who like organ meets, give liver a try. Liver stores many important nutrients (vitamins A, D, E, K, B12 and folic acid, and minerals such as copper and iron). These nutrients provide the body with many of the precursors it needs to get rid of toxins.

SUPPLEMENTS

Even with a healthy diet and all the other practices listed here, sometimes your body needs a little extra help. The following supplements (some of my favorites) will help your body detox naturally. If you have specific healthy issues or feel intimidated in creating your own supplement regiment, I can help you HERE.

• Milk thistle: Silymarin, the active ingredient that has been shown to reduce liver toxicity while supporting regeneration. 

• Turmeric: One of natures most powerful anti-inflammatory and has also been shown to support healthy liver tissue and liver metabolism

• Dandelion: A natural diuretic that eases the flow through the liver to eliminate toxins more quickly

• Burdock root: A cousin of the dandelion, cleanses the blood and supports the liver.

• Glandulars: High in vitamins A, D, E, K, B12 and folic acid, and minerals such as copper and iron. These nutrients provide the body with many of the precursors it needs to cleanse the liver.

• Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Supports antioxidant activity, the regeneration of other antioxidants (including glutathione), and promotion of healthy liver function.

• N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): replenishes intracellular glutathione — needed for detoxification and antioxidant support. 

* In many cased supplement companies have combined many of these ingredients for you in liver detox formulas

HYDRATION

I know you know this, but I am just here to give you a gentle reminder. Your body is made up of a large amount of water, in fact, studies show your body is composed of up to 75 percent H2O. Water is also imperative to flush out your liver tissue, and support your kidneys in eliminating toxins from the body.

Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure you get enough.

• Drink half your body weight in ounces of purified water each day, or more with exercise.

• Drink a large glass of water first thing in the morning before you do anything else.

• Add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of apple cider vinegar to your water for extra cleansing and digestive support.

• Drink herbal tea through out the day.

• If you drink a cocktail or glass of wine, follow with two glasses of water.

• If you get absorbed in what you are up to during the day (like me) set a timer on your phone to remind you to drink water every hour.

• Choose sparkling water over other sugary drinks or sodas

• Bring your water bottle with you wherever you go.

REST & RESTORATION

What is the connection between sleep and the liver? TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) observes the connections between the body’s organ systems and sleep cycles. If your liver is needing a little extra support, you many notice you are waking up during liver time (1-3 am) each night.

While detoxifying the liver, your body is working harder than usual and you may need more sleep, restoration, and downtime to support the process.

• Try going to bed earlier, as much research shows that each hour of sleep you get before midnight is worth two hours after midnight.

• Giver yourself permission to get an extra hour (or two) if possible each night while you are giving your liver some extra love!

• Take a detox bath. While a warm bath can actually help you sleep, detox bath (of sorts) can also help your body detox. Some of my favorite detox baths include adding Epsom salts; or essential oils of lavender, wild orange, Roman chamomile; adding lemon juice or apple cider vinegar; adding ground ginger.

• Practice just “being”. Give your self more white space in your day –– even if that sounds impossible. Give it a try.

• Journal, meditate, read, practice gentle yoga, take a nap.

EXERCISE

Any movement is a wonderful addition to supporting your liver in natually detoxifying. Sweating has an even greater effect. While there is more research needed in this area, much of the research has shown that sweat is composed of some level of toxic waste. Moving the body supports the conditions for the body to detox through breathe, stretching, circulating and sweating. 

• Get outside and enjoy the spring with a brisk walk or hike

• Head to the yoga studio (warm classes are great for this) and get your sweat on.

• Find a cardio workout that works for you

• Dance

• Take a sauna

• Do a mini-work out in your living room!

• For best results try to exercise at a pace where you can breath evenly (as that supports healthy detoxification) while being able to carry on a conversation.
  
  

While I know you may not be able to follow through with all of these suggestions, what I intend here is for you to handpick 1-2 practices from each category. Start slow. Add in the ingredients that best suit your life (and your tastes) and build your momentum from there.

Then… share which ones you pick in the comments below. I am so curious and excited to hear the combination you create just for you!

Here’s to a happy and healthy spring season, and your ever growing RADIANT GLOW!

Need a little help?  I have got you covered.  Get customized support through my CLEANSE-OLGY Program.

LAVENDAR LEMON MATCHA

You may have heard of or even become a fan of the trendy powdered unoxidized green tea known as matcha. Matcha is chock full of antioxidants

This spring enhanced matcha elixir boosts your metabolism, detoxifies your body, and relaxes your mind! 
Sip and savor.

I hope you enjoy a spring afternoon sipping and savoring this one soon!

SPRING TURMERIC SPRITZER

SPRING TURMERIC SPRITZER

The beautiful color of this elixir comes from turmeric, the potent Indian spice that reduces inflammation, enhances vitality and cognition and supplies your body with potent antioxidants. 

Spritzer it up with some sparkling water and a few other fun ingredients and voila, you have the perfect spring mocktail.

Have fun with this one. Enjoy as is (mocktail style) or use as a mixer for your spring festivities…

BEET COCONUT LATTE

BEET COCONUT LATTE

Trust me on this one. Beet and coconut go together like salt and pepper. They make quite a tasty team and color. Known for their health-promoting benefits and astonishing nutrient profile, beets have been revered as a healing, detoxifying and anti-aging food in both Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

Grab yourself some beetroot powder and a can of coconut milk (or milk of choice) and you will see how delightful this spring tonic can be.

I hope you enjoy the taste (and the color) as much as I do!!

WHEN GOING AWAY IS THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS COMING HOME...TO YOURSELF

THE SOUL'S PATH IS NOT STRAIGHT AND ORDERLY; IT'S WINDY AND OFTEN BUMPY, BUT IT HAS AN INCREDIBLE VIEW.

Elisa Romeo
 

There was a time (not very long ago) where the thought of unplugging terrified me.


Single mom. Entrepreneur. (And possible control freak 🙈)


Unplugging felt almost impossible.


Not only did I always feel on call for my kids, but physically leaving them meant calling in a lot of support. Grandparents would fly in, friends would help with carpooling, and I would write endless lists of how our routine worked most successfully for those who were there to help. 


It was a logistical overload.


Taking time away not only felt like a huge project, but even worse, it also brought up so much fear and anxiety.


And, I desperately needed a break.


Over the many years of leading my annual international women's retreats, I began to learn how to manage this inner battle better and better.


The personal value and insight I received with time away is something that can still bring me to tears. 


On one early morning during a Bali retreat –– at approximately 4 am, while sipping Balinese coffee and writing in my journal –– I realized how I had been holding onto so much shame, feelings of not being enough, feelings of not being worthy, for far too long. 


I, in turn, made some big manifestos to myself that morning, promising myself I would learn how to break free from these old beliefs and patterns, that I saw were so clearly holding me back.


As you can imagine, I had some inner work to do, so that a new way of being and thinking would gain a solid foot hold in my life.


To this day, if I notice myself slipping back into those old thoughts and loops, I catch myself much quicker. I tend to the triggers. I know better how to flip my script, so to speak.


That morning changed my life forever. 🌺


I am sharing this with you because I know we all have our blocks in taking time for ourselves ––large or small, near or far. 


My women's retreats have become a perfect way support many women in transforming these blocks, and I now know in my bones that this is my calling. 


I support women (like you!) in taking a break, creating time for reflection and getting out of your day-to-day stressors –– to create some space exhale.


I want you to know that all of your efforts in preparing to get away –– from prepped meals for your family, to play-dates for your kids, to delegating your work, to simply letting go of control –– are all worth it. 


In fact, every single to-do that gets you closer to taking a break and being with yourself in an intimate way is priceless.
 

I have many upcoming retreats (see below) because I want you to have options, and I want the right retreat to speak to you. 


I am featuring our upcoming Satiate Your Soul ~ Bali retreat because, if you can join me, I know this trip will knock your knee highs off.  


It is pure magic.


Join The Satiate Your Soul ~ Bali Women’s Retreat: Experience a week of nourishment from the inside out where you can live your organic rhythm, connect with like minded adventurers, and step into an experiential and cultural immersion in the sacred land of Bali.

• Embody: Practice Women's Flow + Yin Yoga 

• Nourish: Organic food, Balinese cooking classes and inspirational workshops

• Cycle: Explore some of Bali's most culturally significant sites, rice fields, waterfalls and temples. (all levels)

• Rest: Relax, Renew, Reflect and Discover

• Immerse: Enjoy the culture through ritual + Balinese dance + food + goddess study.

Practice yoga amidst the jungle sounds, explore the most authentic aspects of yourself, enjoy an intentional group of women, participate in a traditional Balinese full moon ceremony, immerse into the Balinese culture through women, food, ritual, while basking in the wanderlust of a life changing retreat

Join us in experiencing this very special and intimate Bali retreat illuminating the devotional and cultural aspects of Bali through the feminine. 

Learn more and register here

Also (and reminder) to give you a little taster of what I teach on this retreat, I want to share with you The Soulful Superfood Series. A *FREE* online experience to satiate your soul. You can join HERE.





   

“Sue’s ability to lead is remarkable.  She gracefully and intentionally adapts to the needs of the group and is able to dig in to get to the heart of the matter in a tender and loving way.  Her wisdom and thoughtfulness is evident in everything we did.  She is a wonderful yoga teacher and remarkable workshop leader.  Her heart-centered approach allows woman the safe container to be vulnerable and open up in ways that can accelerate growth.  All of our needs are met so we can focus on our intentions and relax into the experience.  Sue’s retreats are always life-changing for me.  I am a more balanced and thoughtful person because of her.”
 

— Ani (Bali 2016)

CACAO DANDELION MOCHA LATTE

CACAO DANDELION MOCHA LATTE

I am a huge fan of dandelion root coffee.  It is tasty, alkalizing and incredibly detoxifying to the body. Add in a little raw cacao powder and some of your favorite creamy beverage (dairy free options welcome) and you've got yourself a tasty treat to boost your mood, energy, and pleasure!

Be sure you give this one a try. It’s an easy, tasty and incredibly potent boost to your energy, vitality, mood and creativity.

I like to drink raw cacao when I am writing, needing to be creative, or wanting to enhance my day! Sip, savor and enjoy.

BONE BROTH {PALEO} RAMEN

BONE BROTH {PALEO} RAMEN

There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup during these wintery days and nights.  The bone broth base provides a hearty dose of protein, tons of collagen and amino acids to support digestive repair and deep nourishment.  The zoodles (spiralized zucchini noodles) are a wonderful substitute for the more common noodles. 

While you may have heard a lot about bone broth, tasted it at a local health food store, or from your grandmother's soup pot, you may not realize that not only is it super simple to make, but it is also a medicinal nourishing tonic that can make a really big impact on your health.

Bone broth is becoming so popular amidst recent health and wellness trends for a few very important reasons.

The most effective and healing ingredients in bone broth are the amino acids – glutamine and proline. If you suffer from food allergies, leaky gut syndrome, autoimmune symptoms, or IBS, bone broth is for you. Glutamine is one of my favorite supplements for healing digestion (more in module 3), inflammation while rebuilding and strengthening the digestive wall (which gets thinned and often permeable during digestive illness). A regular dose of bone broth will do wonders for your digestion.

Sip and savor!





Recipe Credit :: Boulder Nutrition Team Member Ani Okun
Photo Credit :: Boulder Team Member Kristine Mahan

WHY PRACTICE GRATITUDE?

THE BEST WAY TO EXPRESS YOUR GRATITUDE IS TO ENJOY ALL THAT LIFE GIVES YOU.

About 25 years ago I was gifted a Tarot deck while I was backpacking around Central America. 


You may laugh, but have kept this same deck nearby since then.


The above quote was written on one of those Tarot cards, the very one I pulled out of my tattered old Tarot deck just a few years ago on Thanksgiving day.


Since then, I have consciously been practicing enjoying what I have with more intent. In the process, I’ve noticed a few things that perhaps you can to relate to:


... At times I have felt guilty for taking pleasure in the successes and the luxuries that I do have.

... Often, my mind has automatically turned toward self-criticism, imperfection and focussed on the negative, rather than celebrating my health, abundance and joy.

... Once in a while, I've noticed when I receive a compliment or an acknowledgement, I have a hard time taking it in, but rather brush it off as not true or an exageration.

For many of us, receiving pleasure and celebrating the good in our lives is takes practice.

But, I’ve also noticed that elevating daily gratitude and pleasure gets easier with time, practice, frequency and focus. 


While the Thanksgiving holiday accentuates gratitude, the science behind gratitude has many diverse and positive effects that go far beyond Thanksgiving.

Here are a few of my favorites:

• Gratitude Improves Our Patience: Research shows that practicing gratitude can increase your internal well of patience and keep you more calm and centered in yourself.

• Gratitude Improves Our Eating: Gratitude is a positive state of mind. Gratitude fills your body with loving thoughts, positive intentions, and reverses judgment and criticism (of self or others). Gratitude not only makes us happier, but healthier as well.

• Gratitude Improves Our Self-Care: Gratitude is the perfect ingredient to boost wellness-based activities and self-care. One study found a positive correlation between practicing gratitude and focusing on healthy behaviors such as diet and exercise.  

Back to you! What are you most grateful for? How are you enjoying these elements in your life?

I’d love to hear your response!  Tell me in the comments below…

Eat well and happy Thanksgiving!

Be sure to check out our Thanksgiving gratitude goodies HERE

P.S. Calling all Coloradoans! I just opened registration for a local day retreat this December - ENVISION - for those of you who want to consciously create your 2019.  Join me December 30th, right here in my home town of Boulder, Colorado. Find out more HERE!

CHARRED BEANS AND BEETS

Known for their health-promoting benefits and astonishing nutrient profile, beets have been revered as a healing and anti-aging food in both Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

This one-pan dish is perfect addition to any Thanksgiving feast.

Not only are beets full of health promoting antioxidants and trace minerals, they are also loaded with dietary nitrates––a naturally occurring inorganic compound––that convert to nitric oxide in the body.

Beetroot directly support heart health, lowers blood pressure, enhance physical performance, and protects brain cells keeping you feeling healthy and vital. If you like these earthly sweet roots, be sure to add them to your anti-aging diet!

CELERIAC MASH UP

You may know celery as a popular addition to soups, stews, and salads. You may not, however, be as familiar with the form of celery (the root) known as celeriac.
 
Don’t let the gnarly and peculiar appearance of celeriac fool you. Celeriac is full of flavor, and a tasty addition to your fall vegetable repertoire. Try these tasty mashers this Thanksgiving (and beyond).

Celeriac is rich in minerals such as potassium and phosphorus, which research shows supports healthy bone density. Celeriac is also full of vitamin C, K and B6 making it a nutrient-dense choice with many health benefits including fighting free radical damage––diminishing the damage caused to our cells from sources of toxicity and stress.

Plus, let me remind you they are so tasty! My very favorite root vegetable!!

GRATEFUL CRANBERRY SAUCE

Did you know cranberries are often referred to as a superfood?

While we tend to hear a lot about cranberries, we sadly don't the rest of the year. This naturally sweetened zesty version of traditional cranberry sauce highlights the health benefits of cranberries without all of the added sugar.

This delicious fall flavored rendition of cranberry sauce has a lot to offer your palate and your health!

Cranberries are known to decrease inflammation, prevent UTI’s, protect against cancer, improve cardiovascular health…the list goes on!

Enjoy these healthy and delicious treats this holiday season or really anytime at all!

COCONUT {GRAIN FREE} SHORTBREADS

I am a big fan of baking with alternative flours. These coconut flour treats topped with oh-so-yummy coconut butter are the perfect variation for the healthy and balanced sweet flavor. 

Plus, coconut! Health benefits galore! These healthy treats are rich in coconut and coconut oil.

There are few substances on the planet that stand up to coconut. This versatile superfood has beneficial uses that span skin care, hair health, and anti-inflammatory properties—benefitting you inside and out. Coconut oil is antibacterial and antimicrobial, making it a wonderful addition to your menu (and to your bathroom cabinet).

Notably, research shows  that eating coconut oil regularly can support and heal your digestion as it positively influences the delicate balance of good and bad flora, making the plethora of antioxidant-rich foods you eat easier to absorb.

ROASTED ROOTS ROUNDUP

Tis the season of root veggies and squash. This medley is simple, quick and full of the diverse flavors of fall. Roast a big pan and keep for munching all week!

Let’s talk Delicata squash for a minute:

An heirloom variety of hard-shell squash that is known for its smooth, buttery, and nutty flavor, delicata squash is also low in sugars and high in fiber. Delicata’s unique yellow shell with green stripes makes it easy to recognize alongside its cousins acorn squash, butternut squash and spaghetti squash. Similar to other hard-shell squashes, delicata squash is high in vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron. Eat it often for a healthy immune system, strong bones, and as anemia prevention (preventing low levels of iron in your blood, which can leave you feeling weak).

ZUCCHINI COLLAGEN JOHNNYCAKES

"If you have a garden, you have a library of everything you need."

Oh those summer garden zucchinis can be just so yummy in so many different ways...but wait until you try these!!  Savory, scrumptious and so full of goodness. A little extra collagen peptides added in to these delicious cakes and your skin, nails and digestion will thank you. 

Zucchini is a nutrient dense, hydrating and versatile veggie that is chock full of potassium, vitamin C,  manganese and many other phytonutrients and antioxidant. Zucchini is also low glycemic and highly anti-inflammatory.  Add a little collagen powder (available at your local health food store) and you are gearing up for a great dish!

SPRING SUN-SATIONAL SALAD WITH CREAMY BEET DRESSING

This deliciously vibrant beet dressing is the ideal topping to any salad!

An exciting new dressing is the best way to spice up your basic everyday salad! With a perfectly creamy consistency that everyone can love, enjoy this a big beautiful salad with any meal! 

Fun fact: Eating more beets is a great way to boost your immune system, and antioxidant levels while maintaining healthy blood pressure, nerve and muscle function! 

Brighten up your salads with these colorful, healthful, and perfectly textured ingredients.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY HUMMUS

No matter what your Memorial Day weekend plans are, this hummus is bound to be a hit with any crowd! 

Memorial Day weekend is usually spent basking in the healing summer sunshine. Whoever you decide to spend this holiday with, there will surely be a need for plenty of snacks to enjoy outdoors. This perfectly creamy and filling hummus is the ideal snack to dig in with everyone! 

Chickpeas are a great source of plant based protein. Matched with healthy fats from the oil, nutritious garlic, and loads of vitamin C from lemon, this hummus is the perfectly nourishing and yummy spread that everyone can relish. 

Be sure to take note of our special secret ingredient: chickpea water! This liquid, also known as aquafaba, is the upcoming trend especially in the vegan community. It is commonly used as a binder substitute for eggs in baking. It is the perfect ingredient to make this hummus as creamy as desired. 

No need to stress over what food to bring to your weekend get together! Look no further than this delicious dip that is sure to be a hit!