When we think of summer vibes, tropical vacations, and beaches, one of the first fruits that pop up in our mind is the crowned queen herself, the pineapple!
Pineapple is more than just a refreshing snack or dessert. It is a great source of many nutrients such as Vitamin C and B, and minerals like manganese. This fruit is available all year round so whatever season you are in, you can always enjoy this vibrant juicy fruit.
Here are some health benefits of pineapple:
Charged with Vitamin C
A powerful antioxidant that amplifies the immune system, encourages healing and growth and is a vehicle for faster absorption of iron in our body.
Supports Digestion
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain which can help reduce inflammation and supports the healing of wounds and burns. Moreover, this enzyme is linked to supporting digestion and minimizing the effects of diarrhea.
Fortifies Bones
Average consumption of pineapple can help strengthen your bones and prevent osteoporosis. This is because, along with calcium and other trace minerals, this fruit is rich in manganese which improves mineral and bone density.
Energy Booster
Feeling down lately? Get your natural energy booster from this manganese-rich fruit! Manganese is a cofactor in energy production, reproduction, and the regulation of brain activity.
Pineapple Curry
Ingredients:
1 Can Organic Pineapple Chunks 20 Ounces
1 Cup Almond or coconut Milk
½ Cup Pineapple Juice reserved from can
1 onion diced
2 Cloves Garlic minced
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
2 Tablespoons Curry Powder
1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour or your favorite gluten-free flour
2 Teaspoons ground Cumin
1 Teaspoon Turmeric
1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
1 Teaspoon Paprika
Salt to taste
Direction:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté the onion, garlic, and pineapple until the onions are translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
Add spices to the pan and continue to cook and stir for a minute or two.
Slowly add the milk and juice while stirring. Let the mixture simmer until it starts to thicken, about 10 minutes. Salt to taste.
Celery is a low-calorie, nutrient-packed food that is commonly found in most diets around the globe. Many people are unaware that celery is an excellent source of antioxidants, which can play a role in reducing oxidative stress and helping the body fight off free radical damage.
Let’s dip our celery with our favorite dressing while learning what makes this vegetable a force to be reckoned with.
Reduces Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is one reason that people can be susceptible to illness and disease. The anti-inflammatory compounds in celery can help to reduce joint pain associated with arthritis and osteoporosis.
Healthy Digestion
Celery is a great snack or side dish for so many reasons. It’s packed with soluble and insoluble fiber to support a healthy digestive tract, and it has almost 95 percent water content. One cup of celery sticks has 5 grams of dietary fiber.
Heart Lover
Celery is a good source of potassium and calcium, both of which help to maintain healthy heart rhythms. These minerals are also necessary for nerve conduction, muscle contraction and the maintenance of bone density.
Reinforces Immune System
Celery is abundant in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin C which battles free radicals which in excess can cause chronic diseases.
Cozy Celery Soup
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter, olive oil, or ghee
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
8 cups chopped celery, about 12 stalks
1 lb potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock
Optional ½ cup parsley, for color
Sea salt and pepper, to taste
To serve: dill and sour cream
Direction:
Heat the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and let it cook for 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2 tablespoons butter,1 medium onion,4 cloves garlic. Add the celery, potatoes, and stock to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and celery are soft.
8 cups chopped celery,1 lb potatoes,4 cups chicken or vegetable stock. Add the parsley to the pot (if using) then blend the soup either with an immersion blender or in small batches in your blender. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh dill over top.
Optional ½ cup parsley, Sea salt and pepper, To serve: dill and sour cream (optional)
Eggs are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats. One egg has 6 grams of protein with all nine “essential” amino acids, the building blocks of protein. That’s important because those are the ones your body can’t make by itself. The egg white holds about half that protein and only a small portion of the fat and cholesterol.
Time to crack the secrets of what makes the egg a yolk for wellness!
Good for the eyes
Eggs are rich in Vitamin A which is a significant nutrient for the eyes. It is important to note that Vitamin A deficiency is a leading cause of blindness in children in developing countries, emphasizing the importance of this nutrient. This food also contains zeaxanthin and lutein which has the ability to reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
Empowers the brain
Eggs are empowered by a nutrient called choline and 1 egg contains 125.5 milligrams of it which is 1/4 of your daily choline needs. Choline plays a significant role in your heart as well as in your brain and it helps in regulating mood and memory, as well as enhancing cognitive functions such as visual and verbal memory.
High in Protein
Eggs are an excellent source of protein, and contain all 9 essential amino acids. This means eggs are very good source for building muscle, making sure that cells function properly, and supplying the body with the essential proteins it needs to be healthy.
Bone Building Food
One of the naturally occurring sources of vitamin D is eggs. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, the maintenance of strong bones, the promotion of neuromuscular function, and the reduction of inflammation.
Easy Stovetop Shakshuka
Ingredients:
1 tbsp ( 15 mL )extra virgin olive oil
1small onion, diced
1yellow pepper, diced
1jalapeño, diced
1 tsp ( 5 mL )thyme
1 tsp ( 5 mL )oregano
2garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp ( 30 mL )tomato paste
14 oz ( 400 g )can diced tomatoes
½ cup ( 125 mL )chickpeas, drained & rinsed
salt and pepper to taste
⅓ cup ( 75 mL )feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
4 organic, pastured eggs
fresh basil, for serving
Direction:
Heat oil in an 11-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, yellow pepper, and jalapeño, stirring occasionally for 3-4 minutes. Add the thyme, oregano, garlic, and tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes and bring to a low boil, reduce heat to medium-low add the chickpeas and simmer, stirring occasionally for 5-10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper then stir in feta.
Using the bottom of a ladle, make four indentations into the sauce for the eggs. Crack eggs one at a time and place them into the individual indentations.
Cook until egg whites have set, but the yolks are still runny approximately 6-8 minutes. If the top of the eggs is not set up as desired, cover them with a lid for 1-2 minutes. Do not leave the lid on too long or you will lose the yellow in the yolk. Garnish with fresh basil.
These tiny, yet powerful legumes are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein that will surely invigorate your body’s overall function and resistance against infections! Torn between garbanzos and chickpeas? No need to pit them with each other because both are healthy; it’s just a matter of which flavor, color, and texture fit your palate or dish.
Let’s explore the health benefits of chickpeas!
Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Chickpeas are regarded as a healthy alternative to wheat or other high-gluten grains. Chickpeas have a high fiber content and can help you keep blood sugar and insulin levels steady after meals. Consuming chickpeas in place of wheat can also lead to lower postprandial (after meal) blood glucose (sugar) levels
Improve Heart Health
Chickpeas are an excellent source of potassium, fiber, and vitamins C and B6. They help lower the total cholesterol in the blood, reducing heart disease risk. Fiber also assists in plaque removal from arteries, improving heart health. This benefits the whole body.
Source of Protein
Chickpeas are a great source of protein as 1 cup of chickpeas contains 15 grams of protein.
Reduces fine lines
Chickpeas are an excellent source of manganese and a good source of B vitamins, which can help your skin in various ways, especially in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
You can use chickpeas as a face mask by simply mixing chickpea paste with turmeric. Leave it on your face for 15 minutes and rinse with cold water afterward. This can help brighten your face and helps reduce age spots.
Forged with Fiber
You can generate 6 grams of your 24% daily fiber needs in half a can of chickpeas and that already includes both soluble and insoluble fiber! Soluble fiber promotes good gut bacteria while the insoluble create soft stool which prevents constipation.
Homemade Falafel
Ingredients:
Dried chickpeas
Yellow onion (or red onion)
Chickpea flour or other gluten-free flour
Fresh parsley
Cinnamon
Cloves
Cumin
Cilantro
Turmeric
Cardamom
Directions:
Put the chickpeas to soak for a minimum of 8 hours. I prefer to soak them overnight. Make sure it has enough water and is sitting on a large bowl. They will grow to double or even triple their size.
Blend the soaked chickpeas on low speed with the rest of the ingredients, except for the oil, on a food processor, little by little. You may have to stop the processor and mix the ingredients 2 or 3 times. Don’t overmix it! The mix should be crumbly; that’s why we don’t use pre-cooked chickpeas.
Make balls with the falafel mixture. They should be about 2-3 cm in diameter and placed on a tray. If you find it hard to compress them in your hand, add some extra chickpea flour. Don’t worry; they will tighten up after placing them in the refrigerator.
Let them rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 1 hour, ideally 2 hours.
Put the oil on high heat, preferably on a flat pan, and optionally add a roughly smashed garlic clove to infuse it.
Set a bowl with paper towels to place the fried falafel balls.
Test the heat. As the oil starts smoking, throw a pinch of the falafel mix, it should emerge immediately and brown in two seconds.
Add falafel balls in batches of 6 (depending on how large your pan is). Just ensure you have about 2 cm between each other. Remember, don’t overcrowd the pan. It should take about 1-2 minutes per side.
This one is the kind of recipe that is very filling, everyone can repeat as much as they want, and surely you will end up with more for later in the week since it can last for as long as four days in the fridge.
Grapefruits are a small but sweet citrus fruit that originates in Asia, India, and Indonesia. They are also known as pomelo or sudachi and have a tangy flavor. Like other citrus, grapefruits are delicious and bursting with antioxidants.
Let’s discover whether this citrus is as powerful as its ancestor fruits.
Empowers Your Immune System
The winning blend of vitamins A and C, which helps your immune system to function properly, as well as an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage makes this fruit a formidable asset for your immune system. If you are craving fruit, grab some grapefruit!
Packed With Antioxidants
All varieties of grapefruits are healthy but the red and pink ones are more supercharged than the others due to their high content of antioxidants such as beta-carotene and lycopene. These antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Blood Sugar Management
If you’re trying to manage your blood sugar or lose weight, raw grapefruit is a good choice. The lower glycemic index (GI) makes it easier for the body to digest and use. It also has lots of fiber and vitamins!
Higher Vitamin A Content
Grapefruit provides a significant amount of vitamin A. One-half of a grapefruit contains about one-third of the recommended daily value of vitamin A, which is higher than the 4% in oranges.
*** As a side not – be mindful that some medications due interact poorly with grapefruit, so be sure to check that out before you indulge!
Grapefruit Avocado Salmon Salad with Poblano-Lime Dressing
Ingredients:
1 grapefruit, sectioned
1 blood orange, sectioned
1 avocado, sliced into wedges
Large handfuls of spicy greens such as arugula or watercress
Large handful of pea shoots (optional)
Radish, thinly sliced
Toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish
1/2 pound salmon; preferably wild (optional)
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Poblano-Lime vinaigrette (recipe below)
Direction
To prepare the salmon: Season the salmon with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon, skin-side down, and cook for about 4 minutes; flip, and continue cooking for another 2 1/2 to 3 minutes on the other side, until medium-rare.
Assembly: Toss the arugula (or watercress) and other greens with the desired amount of dressing. Layer the dressed greens, sectioned grapefruit and blood orange, avocado, radish, and salmon on top. Drizzle a bit more dressing on top, and garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, a sprinkling of coarse sea salt, and a few turns of freshly ground black pepper.
Poblano-Lime Dressing
Ingredients:
1 large poblano
1/4 cup of lime juice
1 clove of garlic
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
3 tablespoons thick Greek yogurt
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons good quality extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Direction:
Roast the pepper on an open gas flame, turning with metal tongs, until charred on all sides (alternatively, you can place the poblano under the broiler or roast it on the grill, turning every few minutes). Place in a paper bag for about 10 minutes. Remove from the bag, and, with the side of a chef’s knife, scrape away the charred skin. Cut open and seed the peppers.
Roughly chop the poblano and add it to the blender, along with the lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and yogurt. Blend until smooth. With the blender running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
You are
exposed to toxins Every. Single. Day. There are approximately 80,000 chemicals registered for use in the U.S., and 800,000,000+ pounds of herbicides are used yearly on our
crops. 1-3 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports
that hundreds of these chemicals are present in our bodies. Research shows that
certain chemicals may affect our immune, endocrine, nervous, and reproductive
systems.
In
fact, your body produces its own toxins, or waste known as endogenous toxins,
simply by functioning. Your body also encounters external (exogenous) toxins,
or chemicals made outside of your body. They are in the air you breathe, the
food you eat, the water you drink, and the products you touch.4,5
External Toxins
Air and Water Pollutants
Cigarette Smoke
Certain Personal Care Products
Dyes and Paints
Heavy Metals
Household Cleaning Products
Pesticides and Insecticides
Preservatives and Additives
Trans Fats
Internal Toxins
Ammonia
Carbon dioxide
Free radicals
You become what you eat
The
typical America diet favors processed foods that tend to be high in refined
sugar, trans fats, and salt. Processed
foods often contain pesticides, artificial ingredients, and genetically
modified organisms that can contribute to toxin build up in the body.6
Exposure to these toxins can overburden
your system’s natural ability to detoxify.
Reducing
your toxic burden can reduce your odds of asthma, cancer, Alzheimer’s,
infertility, hormonal and period problems and so much more. Reducing your toxic
load can help you lose weight, restore your energy levels and balance your
hormones. It can help you conceive a healthy baby and raise a healthy child.
When
the body is overloaded with toxins, these toxins cannot be eliminated from the
body and they slow down cellular function. This translates to decreasing your
body’s function; the brain won’t fire as quickly so you become foggy and forgetful.
This can mean you gain weight or feel tired and/or unmotivated. Many people experience symptoms of toxicity
but don’t recognize what these signs really can mean. How many of the symptoms below do you have?
Symptoms of Toxin Exposure
Fatigue or difficulty
sleeping
Indigestion and other
gastrointestinal upset
Food cravings and
weight gain
Reduced mental
clarity (brain fog)
Low libido
Skin issues – eczema,
acne, dark circles under the eyes
Joint or muscle pain
Headaches
Female hormone
disturbances
Sinus issues
Water retention
Bad breath
Insomnia
Your Organs of Detoxification
My 21 day Reset Detox Programs are designed to stimulate specific detoxification organs in the body—the liver, kidneys, and intestines. With help from these organs, your toxic load can decrease, and your body can concentrate its energy on detoxifying and cleaning up. This can help you achieve optimal health by cleansing your body from the inside out. The goal is to learn how to enhance your body’s ability to detox and remove these toxins on a daily basis. No matter where start, everyone can benefit from a detox program.
Liver
Filters toxins
Aids the body in metabolizing fat, protein, and carbohydrates
Helps transform many toxins into harmless agents
Kidneys
Filter waste and excess fluid from the blood
Regulate and release the right balance of sodium, phosphorus, and potassium for the body to function properly
Small Intestine
Digests food so that nutrients can be absorbed into the blood and transported to the liver
Provides a barrier that blocks toxins from the rest of the body
Large Intestine
Absorbs water and electrolytes, forming waste that is excreted from the body
Produces antibodies for gastrointestinal health
Contains bacteria that create fatty acids and some vitamins for extra nutritional support
Why you may not be losing weight
If your
body can’t release toxins through your intestines (poop) or kidney (urine) then
they can be deposited and stored in the body.
Over months, years, or even decades these can build up in the body and
create havoc.
One of
the most common sites for us to deposit toxins is in our fat cells since many
of the chemicals in today’s environment and food are lipotrophic, meaning that
they LOVE
FAT. The challenge is that we
have to release those stored toxins from the fat cells before the fat cells can
shrink. This is one reason why you may
have been eating better and working out more but still seeing NO weight loss results.
Where We Store Toxins
Fat Cells
Bone Marrow
Joints
Liver
Blood
Muscle
Central Nervous
System
What the heck is metabolic detoxification
anyway?
Metabolic
detoxification is your body’s natural process of neutralizing and eliminating
toxins from your body. This three-phase
process unlocks fat-soluble toxins and converts them to a water-soluble state
that is easier for your body to remove. Your body needs key nutrients and
phytonutrients to support each of these phases.
Three phases of metabolic
detoxification
Phase I: Unlock – Stored fat-soluble toxins transform into an “unlocked” state that is more water-soluble, and in many cases, more toxic than its original form. The foods and supplements recommended in the 21 day Reset Detox program delivers nutrients that activate enzymes required for Phase I reactions. It also supplies antioxidants that reduce stress on your body, such as tissue damage sometimes caused by these enzyme activities.
Phase II: Neutralize – The highly toxic substances produced in Phase I convert to non-toxic molecules and become even more water-soluble. The foods and supplements recommended in the 21 day Reset Detox program supplies key nutrients and amino acids needed to support Phase II enzymes. These enzymes enhance the water solubility of toxins.
Phase III: Eliminate – Water-soluble toxins leave your cells, and your body eliminates them. The foods and supplements recommended in the 21 Day Detox Program provides your body with plant-based fiber and water, which aid in toxin elimination.
A Simple, Effective Answer is HERE!
You can create more efficiency around detoxification by modifying your daily food choices, and habits to support your body’s natural ability to detoxify. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above or feel like it’s just time for a reset, I encourage you to check out my upcoming Virtual Group 21 Day Detox Reset Program. The 21 Day Group Detox Program is designed for balancing hormones, resetting your digestive system, weight loss, improved energy, better sleep and so much more!
My hope is to provide you with easy, effective tools to help you liver YOUR. BEST. LIFE.
Cheers,
Author:
Dr. Stephanie Zgraggen, DC, MS, CNS, CCN is a licensed chiropractor, certified clinical nutritionist, and owner of Lime and Lotus, LLC with offices in both Charleston, South Carolina and Atlanta, Georgia. She utilizes saliva testing, herbs, and whole food supplements to correct female hormones imbalances in her patients. Download her free guide: Dr. Stephanie’s Naughty List – The Top Five Foods that Wreck Your Hormone Health here.
Michael N. Antoniou et al., “Concerns Over Use of Glyphosate-Based Herbicides and Risks Associated with Exposures: a Consensus Statement.” Environmental Health 15, no. 1 (2016): 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12940-016-0117-0.
Romilly E. Hodges and Deanna M. Minich, “Modulation of Metabolic Detoxification Pathways Using Foods and Food-Derived Components: A Scientific Review with Clinical Application,” Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism (2015): 16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2015/760689.
Ian A. Myles, “Fast Food Fever: Reviewing the Impacts of the Western Diet on Immunity,” Nutrition Journal 13 (2014): 1. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-13-61.
These long, vibrant, thin peppers have mid-level spiciness with an earthy and smoky flavor. If you are brave enough to kick start your palate with a breeze of spice, then you are in for a ride that is loaded with nutrients that can help improve the condition of your blood.
Let’s discover the secrets of this spice by reading more about it below.
Improves Metabolism
Cayenne contains an active ingredient called capsaicin that stimulates the body’s metabolic activity by increasing the blood flow and heat in our body, which is called thermogenesis. The average increased rate of metabolism is about 20% and the effect can last for several hours after consumption.
Lowers Blood Pressure
This pepper is low in sodium and along with its vasodilation properties, this food can help lower your blood pressure. Also, regular consumption of cayenne can lower your risk of getting cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Circulatory Stimulant
Cayenne pepper facilitates blood circulation by dilating your blood, therefore, regulating the flow.
If you are taking medication for high blood pressure, always consult your medical specialist first.
Relief for Pain
The active ingredient capsaicin can diminish the substance p which is a neurotransmitter that sends pain signals. This works for both short-term and chronic pain.
This pain-killing effect is also linked to relieving joint pain along with the anti-inflammatory power of capsaicin.
Homemade Cayenne Pepper Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
10 ounces cayenne chili peppers
5-6 cloves garlic
1/2 cup white wine vinegar (or more, as desired – use 1 cup for a thinner sauce)
1 teaspoon salt + more to taste
Direction
Chop up the cayenne peppers along with garlic cloves and add them to a pot with the vinegar and 1 teaspoon salt.
Bring the mix to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer everything for 20 minutes.
Cool the mixture slightly, then transfer it to a food processor or blender. Process it until the sauce is nice and smooth. Adjust to taste with more salt if desired.
Strain the sauce through a fine sieve if you’d like a smoother sauce, or pour it into bottles as-is for a thicker sauce.
This bulbous vegetable may not be as familiar as some of the other veggies, but its flavor, texture, and benefits surely deserve to be a part of your list of healthy foods. What does fennel taste like? Well, it has a light, bright, and licorice-like aroma but is not overpowering. Incorporate this vegetable into your diet and you’ll surely reap the benefits as it boasts an abundance of health-protective nutrients.
Let’s discover the benefits of this vegetable and make sure to stay tuned till the end of this article to uncover the recipe perfect for this veggie!
Food for the Guts
Fennel is your digestive system’s best friend! Snacking on some fennel seeds (1/4 tsp.) or drinking fennel tea can help provide relief to your stomach. This is due to fennel’s abundance in prebiotics which is the food source for probiotic bacteria which it restores balance in the gut. Also, this veggie is rich in fiber which softens your stool.
Prevents Anemia
Iron is a vital component of hemoglobin which transports oxygen from your lungs to various parts of your body. Fennel is rich in iron therefore it helps replenish your body’s iron needs.
Source of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant known for its ability to improve your immune system, keep your skin healthy, prevent macular degeneration, and shield your body from oxidative stress. The good news is, fennel is rich in Vitamin C, and now is the time to munch on these veggies!
Roasted Fennel with Garlic & Herbs
Ingredients:
2 large bulbs of fennel
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
3/4 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp thyme
Direction:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove any of the stalks from the fennel bulbs and then cut them in half lengthwise. Cut each halved fennel bulb into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange the slices on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet ensuring that they are all laid out evenly and do not overlap.
In a bowl combine the olive oil and minced garlic and brush it over the sliced fennel and then sprinkle the thyme, salt and pepper overtop to ensure they are all well-seasoned.
Roast the fennel in the oven for 25 minutes. After 35 minutes of baking, the fennel should be tender and caramelized on the edges (cook for another 5-8 minutes if it’s not yet tender). Serve warm.
Green beans are one of the most common vegetables that we see in the market and they are also easy to grow whatever the climate is. Their abundance is a blessing to humanity and the earth because like all other legumes, they are rich in nutritional value and they can fix the nitrogen from the air, therefore, improving the soil that they grow in.
Time to cultivate more knowledge about this vegetable by reading more about it below.
Anti- Cancer
Green beans are abundant in chlorophyll. This green pigment can reverse the carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic amines which are produced by foods grilled at high temperatures.
Improves Mood
This veggie can help you meet your daily folate need which is essential for regulating the homocysteine in your body. Homocysteine can prevents the blood from reaching your brain affecting the distribution of nutrients and the production of feel-good hormones.
Bone Booster
Consuming green beans along with other food can help strengthen your bones. A cup of green beans contains 20% of the Vitamin K daily requirement, and 4% of Calcium needed every single day.
Superior Immunity
These goodies are also rich in Vitamin C which is an antioxidant that amplifies your immune system and is necessary for your body’s development, growth, and repair.
Split Green Bean and Pea Soup
Ingredients
1 yellow onion
1 cup green beans chopped
4 carrots
4 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound of split peas
8 cups organic vegetable or chicken broth
Kosher salt
Fresh ground pepper
Chop the onion and carrots. Mince the garlic.
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion, green beans, and carrots and sauté for 2 minutes. Add garlic and split peas and sauté for 1 minute.
Add the broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 45 to 55 minutes, until the split peas fall apart and the soup becomes thickened. If you’d like, with a hand-held immersion blender, pulse a few times to yield a smoother yet still chunky texture.
Stir in the kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper. Garnish with smoked paprika if desired.
This fruit is a member of the mulberry family and it is a fruit of the ficus tree. Figs are delicate and their taste is described as syrupy liqueur sweet, with a chewy and soft texture and slightly crunchy.
Let’s climb into the ficus tree and discover what makes this fruit special and brilliant!
Healthy Digestion
Figs are enriched with fibers & prebiotics which are the perfect combo for a healthy tummy! It can also aid in shedding weight due to its high soluble fiber content and it can make you feel full for a longer period.
Anti-Parasitic
Figs have also been shown to help kill parasites and are one of the main ingredients in Dr Z’s recommended parasite protocol. It can be found in the Zymex II product which she recommends for parasite detox and support.
Fertility Fruit
Figs have been a symbol of fertility since ancient Greek times. They are rich in iron which plays a major role in the ovulation process in females.
Beneficial to your Heart
Fig contains fiber and potassium which can assist with decreasing fat from your body and pressure in your heart. This goodie is also fortified with antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals and reduce triglycerides and bad cholesterol.
Strong Bones
With the presence of calcium and potassium, figs can help improve the density of your bones which can protect you from bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
Citrus & Fresh Fig Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients:
1 cup almond milk (organic and unsweetened)
1/4 cup organic chia seeds
3-4 fresh figs, stem removed and chopped
2-3 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp tangelo zest (or other citrus)
To garnish: 2 quartered fresh figs, 2 tbsp chopped walnuts, and additional maple syrup
Directions:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, citrus zest, and maple syrup. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10 minutes or so. Add in the chopped figs and stir again.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight until it’s thick and pudding-like. When ready to serve, stir the pudding well and divide between two small bowls. Garnish each pudding with a quartered fig, a tablespoon of chopped walnuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup, to taste. Eat.
The pudding can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Note: Feel free to substitute your citrus of choice – oranges, tangerines, and clementines would all work well.
