2020 A Lemon Year

To say 2020 threw me a few lemons would be an understatement it was more like a few boulders (gigantic ones!)…

I’ll do a quick recap: the first boulder occured early in the new year. My laptop began to play wonky so I took it in and was told it was an easy fix of reloading Microsoft (I was told lots of folks were having this issue…). My hard drive crashed and Murphy’s Law was in full play here as all of my business files (my just finished taxes for 2019!) and photos were corrupted and could not be recovered.

So you just deal with it what else can you do, right? The next boulder occurred on April 1st (gotta love the humor) when I was hospitalized for bi-lateral pulmonary embolism with lower left lung infarction along with deep vein thrombosis in both lower legs. A complication of recent leg work I had been doing for venuous insufficiency. Scary stuff especially since I almost blew off the symptoms!

In the meantime, with Covid-19 shut-downs and social distancing, my nutrition business reduced to almost nothing.

I will add in too that I had been dealing with a very sturbborn and bad case of plantar fasciitis that was not responding to any therapy for over a year.

Moving along and not really a boulder, let’s say more of a pebble for me, I tested positive for Covid in October. I was very fortunate that I only had a stuffy nose and lost my sense of taste and smell.

The final boulder and a boulder partly of my own choosing was an overdue surgery on my right shoulder in December to repair my torn rotator cuff, bicep, and bone spur requiring me to wear a sling for 6 weeks and 3 months of physical therapy. I am right hand dominent!

When you are restricted from walking, using your right arm, and mostly staying at home because of Covid, you have alot of time to think (and eat – hello covid 20!). Time to think about the important things like what you really want, is what you are currently doing working for you, bringing you joy? what do I need to change? making a plan, and so on… I can now say I highly reccomend this long overdue inner soul searching it is so freeing!

This is where the change(s) comes in!

As many of you know, we became RV weekend warriors last year camping in our new RV trailer. We have caught the bug and now have a retirement plan to downsize and become rootless (RV fulltime) and travel.

After finally giving in to the Zoom meeting platform, I have decided to continue seeing clients virtually (and I can continue do this on the road too!). To simplify even further, I am downsizing my nutritional therapy services to the single Nutritional Recommendations Plan and Food Sensitivity testing. I have made one addition that I will share with you below. In the future I may look at adding back in Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis when I finish my training.

A final change that I am so excited to share with you is my new partnership with Beautycounter. It was a no brainer to add Beautycounter to my nutritional therapy services. Here’s why:

While being passionate about what goes in my body, I am also just as passionate as to what goes on my body.  Our skin is our largest organ and everything we put on it gets absorbed into our bloodstream and does so in like 26 seconds!

The beauty industry is a trillion-dollar industry and in this country there is very little legislation regulating it and it hasn’t been updated since 1938!  There are only 30 ingredients banned here in the USA where in Europe it is 1400.  When I learned this it really started a fire in me!  This is where Beautycounter comes in as they are all about changing this.

I started using Beautycounter products a few months ago and I absolutely love them – my skin has never looked better!

Beautycounter’s values are very much in line with my lifestyle and what is important to me:

• They provide clean, safe effective beauty products – 1800 unsafe ingredients in their Never List
• Strong advocates for cleaner, safer legislation
• Responsible sourcing
• Sustainability – working towards carbon neutrality, 100% recyclable packaging
• Women owned business

Read more about their very impressive Mission Statement here: https://www.beautycounter.com/our-mission

I feel confident recommending Beautycounter to my family, friends and clients as the integrity of this company and their mission is second to none.  You can trust that their skin care, self care and makeup are safe, and clean with no additives or fillers. Beautycounter is also giving me an exciting new business opportunity with the flexibility to have a side hustle on the road!

New Beautycounter clients can enjoy 20% savings (some exclusions apply) beginning Thursday, April 29th.

If you are ready to transition to cleaner beauty products, I would love to help you!

On a final note, I would like to invite you to a Facebook group I will be forming shortly. Beautycounter sparked my idea for this group which will be about embracing your age whatever it is. A conversation about all aspects of aging both mentally and physically. A place for women to come together and share thoughts and experiences on living our best lives as time inevitably marches on. Tips on beauty, health, wellness, nutrition/food/recipes, movement, meditation, humor and living!

The name of my new Facebook group will be “You are the Perfect Age.” I will be transitioning my current “Live Your Best Health Forward” Facebook Group to “You are the Perfect Age” shortly. If you already belong to this group you are good to go. If you would like to be a part of the new group, please join the Live Your Best Health Forward FB group here:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/754643657985515

So yeah my year of lemons (or boulders!) although painful turned into some much needed perspective and positive exciting changes!

Thank you for following along on my journey, and as always I wish you the the best in health!

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

Join my weekly newsletter for health & wellness tips, recipes & more.
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http://www.prairiehillnutrition.com/

Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

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Keep these Natural Items on Hand for First Aid

Having a first aid kit on hand can help to bandage up accidents quickly and efficiently.  Keeping one in your home is a priority, and having one to keep in the trunk of your car can come in handy, too.

Just to be clear — these tips are for minor cuts and bruises. If someone has been injured, don’t delay getting proper medical attention.  For other common occurrences that aren’t severe, you can keep your natural first aid kit on hand to use at a moment’s notice.

– Soothe burns

For those occasions you accidentally touch the edge of your baking sheet after you pull it out of the oven, resulting in a minor burn. Aloe vera gel is a great and natural solution to soothe burns of this type. You can also use calendula or an oil with St. John’s wort, though aloe vera gel (the real stuff) is extremely easy to find and keep stashed for these purposes.  You could even keep an aloe plant in your home, for decoration and purpose.

– Calm seasonal allergies

When that pollen gets in the air, you might feel pretty miserable. If you want to rely on something more natural, stinging nettle and echinacea can help you. Each of these calms seasonal allergies by reducing inflammatory symptoms so you can get through your day without sneezing up a storm.

– Quell the common cold

When a cold comes on, if you have lemons or limes around, you’re halfway to feeling better. Mixing those with raw organic honey, a touch of ground cayenne pepper, and a little warm water can do you better.

– Relieve a pounding headache

If you’re tired of taking too many pain relievers to stop your head from aching, considering stocking up on essential oils instead. Specifically, lavender and peppermint are wonderful when diffused into your air space or even applied to your temples. Be sure to use a high-quality third-party tested oil, so you’re sure it’s not full of yucky chemicals. 

– Stop bug bites from itching

Bug bites from ants or mosquitoes are bothersome. They’re hard to avoid in the spring and summer months.  Fortunately, if you have that lavender essential oil around, you can apply it directly to the source and relieve that itching pronto. 

– Fix tummy troubles

For anyone that’s always had trouble stomaching over the counter medicines, try candied ginger or ginger extract when you feel a bit queasy or have an upset stomach. Ginger is naturally good at helping with digestion and is even safe for pregnant and nursing women.

When you go more natural with your wellness routines, you’ll start feeling better overall. Keeping these natural essentials around gives you a safer alternative to calming your ailments.

Always in health,

Cynthia

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Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

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What To Do To Protect Yourself From Viral Outbreaks

What can you do to protect yourself from viral outbreaks?

First and foremost your best line of defense is a strong immune system built by consuming a whole food nutrient dense diet rich in vitamins and minerals from plants and animals.

Here are some ways to bolster yours:

Vitamin A – Vitamin A  supports a healthy immune system.  It is needed for the mucous barriers of your eyes, lungs, gut and genitals which trap bacteria and other pathogens.

Vitamin A is involved in the generation and function of  the immune systems white blood cells (leukocytes). They are involved in protecting the body against infectious disease and foreign invaders by capturing and removing pathogens from your bloodstream.

Vitamin A rich foods include quality cod liver oil that contains natural vitamin A; beef liver from grass-fed cows or a dried/dessicated liver supplement from grass-fed cows, grass fed butter, and pastured egg yolks.   Organic veggies include winter squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli, spinach, and carrots.

Vitamin D –  Vitamin D assists in cell replication and helps protect against infections.  Vitamin D rich foods include pastured egg yolks, grass-fed butter; wild caught fish eggs,  salmon, tuna, sardines; lard from pastured pigs; quality cod liver oil; mushrooms and of course natural sun exposure.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C is a powerful immune boosting antioxidant.  Some foods high in Vitamin C include organic black currants, red & green peppers, kiwi, guava, oranges, broccoli and kale.

 Zinc –  Zinc is an essential mineral that helps the body fight off bacteria and viruses and helps in wound healing.  Zinc is required for building proteins, triggering enzymes and creating DNA.  Zinc functions as a neurotransmitter helping the cells in your body communicate. Zinc acts as an ant-inflammatory and is used as a natural cold remedy/prevention. Some foods high in zinc include grass-fed lamb and beef, chickpeas, cashews, pumpkin seeds, organic yogurt, pastured chicken, turkey, and eggs; mushrooms, wild caught salmon, and cocoa powder.

Potassium – There is a new study that reveals most Cornonavirus patients experienced low blood potassium levels and potassium supplementation assisted in their recovery.  (Potassium supplementation should only be done with a health care professional) Foods high in potassium include avocado, coconut water, unsulphured molasses, beets, yogurt, and bananas.

Bone Broth – Bone broth made from grass-fed animals supports a healthy immune system, restoring gut health, and a healthy inflammation response.

Garlic and Onions – Garlic and onions are high on my list of immune boosting veggies. Garlic promotes gut health, is a powerful antioxidant, and has antibacterial, antiviral and anti fungal properties.  Onions are mineral rich and  contain Vitamin C and antioxidants.  Onions can help reduce congestion in the nose and throat.

Grandma was right!  Chicken soup made with a variety of vegetables (including garlic and onions) can inhibit the development of respiratory symptoms.

Saturated Fats – Saturated fats are necessary for proper lung function.  Many viruses affect the lungs.  Healthy saturated fats from grass fed animals and unrefined coconut oil help in the digestion and absorption of fat soluble vitamins A,D,E,K that help protect and improve lung function.  Avoid industrial vegetable oils.

Probiotic Rich Foods – Probiotic rich foods such as raw fermented organic sauerkraut/veggies, coconut kefir, kvass; organic yogurt, kefir & raw cheese contain beneficial bacteria that improve digestion/absorption of vitamins and minerals, and strengthen the immune system reducing cold and flu symptoms.

Oregano Oil –  Oregano oil has antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.  It has been used for cold, flu and respiratory health.

Fish Oil – A quality fish oil high in Omega 3 fatty acids provides powerful anti-inflammatory properties.  Reducing inflammation will improve immune function.

Elderberry Syrup – Elderberry syrup contains the berries and flowers of elderberry which are packed with immune boosting antioxidants and vitamins. Elderberries have been used for hundreds of years for their health benefits.  They contain vitamins and minerals including zinc.  Elderberry syrup can help reduce inflammation and stress. Elderberry syrup has been used to help prevent and relieve cold and flu symptoms.

Hydration – Staying hydrated helps the kidneys balance electrolytes and filter waste.  If you do get sick, drinking water will lessen congestion allowing mucus to be expelled easier.  Aim for half your body weight in ounces daily. In addition to pure filtered water, try immune boosting herbal teas such as ginger and echinacea.

Movement –  exercise and sweating can help remove bacteria from the lungs and airways reducing  your chance of getting viral infections.  Sweating removes toxins through the skin boosting immune health.

Sleep – Sleep is essential for a healthy immune system.  Aim for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night.

Wash your hands – wash your hands often for at least 30 seconds with plain soap and water.  Frequent hand washing is an effective way to prevent the spread of germs and viruses.

Avoid touching your face – Avoid touching your eyes, nose & mouth.  Your hands are constantly touching surfaces that may be contaminated. Touching your face can give the tiny microbes a chance to infect you by entering your eyes, nose or mouth.

Reduce Stress – Stress wears us down both mentally and physically.  Make time for “me” time/relaxation/meditation, family/friends and things you enjoy.  Laugh. A lot. Lastly, having a positive outlook and expressing gratitude will make you happier and more resilient to handle life’s challenges and situations.

Reduce Your Toxic Load – The more toxic we are the more our body has to work to get rid of those toxins.  Ditch the processed food which robs your body of vitamins and minerals to digest it.  Use natural oral, skincare, beauty and cleaning products to lighten your toxin load.

Remember that every thing you eat, and every thing you breathe in, and every thing you put on your skin gets absorbed into your body and can either weaken or strengthen your immune system.

So as you can see, there really is a lot we can do to protect ourselves and prevent viral outbreaks!

Always in health,

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

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Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

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How to Use Your Air Fryer For Healthy Meals

Whether you already have an Air Fryer or are still thinking about investing in one, there are so many ways to use an Air Fryer to keep things exciting in the kitchen.  After all, it allows you to make the fried foods you love with much less fat and calories. But aside from the healthier “fried food” option, there are endless ways to use it for healthy options.

So, how can you cook healthy meals in your air fryer?  Here are a few tips for using it beyond making fried foods.

– Roast your veggies

Sheet pan veggies are always a hit at dinner. The problem is that they can take a while to bake up. If you don’t have time, don’t make excuses. Just pull out the air fryer. You can do this with any vegetable you choose from brussels sprouts to broccoli and everything in between. Just cut them into bite-sized bits, toss to coat with a little avocado or coconut oil, and then drop them in the basket of your air fryer. A good rule of thumb is about 375F for 20 minutes. You can even do this while they’re still frozen! Don’t overcrowd the basket and shake it every 5 to 7 minutes, so they all brown nicely.

– Make fish

Fish is a healthy choice but doesn’t need to be coated in batter to be delicious. Coat your fresh fish fillets (or salmon) with melted butter, coconut oil or avocado oil, lemon juice and seasonings of your choice. Cook at 375F for around 8 minutes for perfectly cooked fish.  If you love a good fish fry, dip fillets in an egg wash and coat with gluten or grain free crumbs. Low carb version – good quality crushed pork rinds.

– Turn chickpeas into a crispy, crunchy snack

For many people, eating healthy is hardest when it comes to snacks. You can fix that by making your own crispy chickpeas in your Air Fryer! They make great snacks or even can top your salad for a bit of texture. Simply drain a can of them and mix with a little drizzle of oil, sea salt, and pepper. You’ll want to use 400F and toss the basket every 5 to 10 minutes until all of the chickpeas are nice and crisp. Play around with seasonings like curry or cumin once you get the hang of it.

– Get baked potatoes in no time

Why keep making fries in the air fryer when you can make baked potatoes? Poke a few holes in your potatoes, and air fry them for about 40 minutes. They come out amazing and take less time than the oven. Works for sweet potatoes too.

Did I mention chicken wings are amazingly crisp & tender in the air fryer???  Toss wings with a TBS of oil, salt, pepper, & garlic powder. Place wings in a single layer in fryer basket.  Fry for 15 -20 min at 400F.  Flip the wings over for another 15 minutes.  Brush wings with your favorite buffalo wing sauce and fry for another 5 minutes.

Additional tips:

• “Preheat” the air fryer for 5 minutes before adding food.
• Avoid layering or crowding food in the fry basket. Optimal crispiness is achieved when air can circulate around each piece of food.
• Turn over or shake food halfway through cooking time – or more often if browning quickly. (Fish not necessary).
• Check food especially when close to being done to avoid burning.  There is no harm in lifting the lid!

If you are thinking about purchasing an air fryer consider a larger size.  With smaller fryers you may have to cook in batches.  I have a Ninja Foodie combination pressure/slow cooker/air fryer.  Instant pot has an air fryer lid that fits right on their pressure cookers.

With these tips, you can do so much more with your air fryer. It’s not just about healthier fried versions of food, but fast ways to healthier foods that makes the air fryer a gem in any kitchen!  Check out Pinterest for air fryer recipes or the many good cookbooks dedicated to air fryer cooking and some are diet specific too (paleo/keto…).

I’d love to hear what your favorite foods are to cook in the air fryer!

Always in health,

Cynthia

 

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Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

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Surprise! Eating Healthy is Less Expensive Than You Think!

 

There are countless reasons I hear for not eating healthy foods — a hectic day at work, no time to shop at the supermarket, not sure how to cook healthier meals, or even not being able to afford healthy food options. These are real concerns, and with a few tweaks and understanding, you can soon realize these are quite easy to fix. And best of all — healthy food does NOT have to be more expensive.  Most of the time, it’s actually the least costly option.

The US Department of Agriculture even took it to heart to show those on a budget how making healthier choices with food is not more expensive. In the study, things like carrots and pinto beans are much less expensive per portion than things like ice cream and sweet rolls.

Processed foods high in protein, saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium all clocked in as being more expensive than vegetables, fruit, and grains. So that myth about healthier foods being too expensive is now officially busted.  Great news, right?

If you’ve been making these same justifications, there is no better time than right now to explore healthier options at your supermarket. No time? Order it online. Even if you can’t afford a delivery service, many supermarkets offer the chance to simply pick it up at your convenience at no additional charge.

Plus, it may even help you avoid impulse purchases for junk food. Let’s face it…it’s tasty, but it’s not healthy. Need some help eating better on a budget? Follow these tips!

– Budget for meat and fish

Meat and fish will always fetch the larger cost in your cart. Look for sales to stock up and freeze it for later use.  Buying in bulk, purchasing whole vs. parts is considerably cheaper, better for you and the environment too.  For example – whole chicken instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, whole fish instead of fillets, cheaper cuts of meat instead of steaks which made into stews etc., can be enough for more than one meal.

– Go meat-free

Going meat-free for a meal or two per week can reduce costs too.

Make a tasty meatless meal with beans and legumes which are both inexpensive.  Buy the dry kind to avoid excess sodium and to save even more.

– Buy fresh, local, and seasonal

If you really want to save money, buy what’s fresh, in season, and local. There are so many superfoods out there, but the best way to nourish your overall health on a budget is to make use of the bounty of freshness around you. As long as you’re eating more vegetables, fruits and quality protein, you’re improving your health and reducing your risk for expensive long-term illnesses.  Frequent farmers markets and find local farmers.

– Buy frozen or canned to round out your meals

Whether you’re too far from the store or have a tight budget, stock up on frozen vegetables. Frozen is ideal since they lock in all the vital nutrients.  If you use canned, look for low sodium and bpa free cans.  Either one can be used in tasty soups, stews, and for side dishes that come together in just minutes when you’re in a pinch.

-Make your own

Taking a few minutes to make homemade salad dressing and condiments can save money and help you avoid those unhealthy oils and added sugars in commercial products.

Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.com

Once you leave the excuses behind, commit some time (what is more important than your health and nourishing your body???) and start making your own healthy meals, you’ll start seeing those savings. And with those savings and better health, you might just be ready for an epic vacation when summer rolls around!

Always in health,

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

Join my weekly newsletter for health & wellness tips, recipes & more.
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Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

 

Five Ways to Get Back On Track

 

There’s nothing better than knowing that you’re progressing in your wellness journey and sticking to your healthy eating. Nothing better, except that slice of chocolate cake you’ll just have for that special occasion, or that delicious pile of pasta you’ve been saving your cheat meal for. To be clear, there really is nothing wrong with those in moderation, but sometimes those little treats lead to you completely straying from your path… and you might be having trouble finding your way back. Here are five tips that can help you get back on track.

1. Don’t let one cheat meal throw off your entire week

Often, when we slip up and have a cheat meal or even a full day of unhealthy eating, we write off our hard work as “undone” and give up. We get back to unhealthy eating habits and steer right off the track. We all indulge sometimes— don’t let one unhealthy meal lead you to believe that you’ve undone all your progress. Simply get back on track and have a healthy, balanced meal for your next meal.

2. Eat whole, unprocessed foods

Instead of complicating the “healthy eating rules” and measuring, calculating, and recording everything you eat, just remember to eat real, unprocessed, whole foods. This makes things very simple for you. This means eating lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, and proteins. Stay away from the pre-packaged meals and foods with ingredients that you can’t pronounce. This will often save you money and is the healthiest way to fuel your body.

3. Plan and prepare your meals

The key to maintaining your healthy eating is always to be prepared. Don’t let a busy week leave you with no other option than to order takeout. You probably always hear the advice to meal-prep, but it really is one of the best ways to keep on track. Dedicate one day in the week towards washing and cutting your veggies, preparing some staples such as brown rice or chicken breast and store them in the fridge, so you have healthy options for the entire week.  Hard boil eggs for a quick breakfast or snack.  Pre prepping can work for pretty much any dietary plan you are following.

It will be easy to throw together a salad for lunch or dinner if you have your protein already cooked and veggies ready to go. Consider batch cooking too, which is basically pre-making whole meals in larger quantities that you can eat throughout the week or freeze & reheat.

4. Keep an emergency food kit with you

Again, planning and preparing your meals is the most valuable thing you can do. If you’re hungry at the mall or your friend has no healthy snacks at her house, be prepared! Keep an emergency food kit with you. Pack a bag of nuts and seeds, homemade granola, hummus and carrots, an apple, or even some dark chocolate for dessert. Pack whatever healthy snacks YOU enjoy, so that you will actually eat them, and always keep a bottle of water with you.

5. Stop restricting yourself and enjoy life!

A healthy lifestyle is all about balance. Don’t be so restrictive with your diet, or you will end up hating it, and you won’t enjoy the foods you eat. That’s no way to live life! Eat healthy, whole foods, and if you want a slice of cake once in a while, have it. It’s better to enjoy that cake than to stress about it while eating it. A negative mindset surrounding food is much more destructive than treating yourself once in a while and really enjoying it.

Being too strict about what we eat for long periods of time usually ends up in binge eating down the line and that can put us on the path to diet roller coaster hell.

Always in health,

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

Join my weekly newsletter for health & wellness tips, recipes & more.
Follow me on Facebook Prairie Hill Nutrition
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Join my Facebook Group Live Your Best Health Forward!
http://www.prairiehillnutrition.com/

Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

 

Five Weight-Loss Friendly Snacks You Will Love

The words “weight-loss” and “snacks” often appear in the same sentence.

But that might also bring thoughts of “tasteless,” “cardboard,” and “completely unsatisfying.”

Right?

Let me give you my best weight-loss friendly snacks that aren’t just nutritious but also delicious!

What’s my criteria you ask?

They have to be nutrient-dense whole foods where a little goes a long way; foods that contain protein and/or fibre.

1 – Nuts

It’s true – nuts contain calories and fat, but they are NOT fattening!

Well, I’m not talking about the “honey roasted” ones, of course. Those probably are fattening.

Studies show that people who eat nuts tend to be healthier and leaner.

By the way, nuts also contain protein and fiber, which means a small amount can go pretty far in terms of filling you up. (a little goes a long way!)  Not to mention the vitamins and minerals you can get from nuts.

Did you know that almonds have been shown to help with weight loss? At least 10% of the fat in them is not absorbed by the body, and almonds can also help to boost your metabolism!

Tip: Put a handful of unsalted/unsweetened nuts into a small container and throw it in your purse or bag.

2 – Fresh Fruit

As with nuts, studies show that people who tend to eat more fruit, tend to be healthier. (I’m sure you’re not too surprised!)

Yes, fresh fruit contains sugar, but whole fruits (I’m not talking juice or sweetened dried fruit) also contain a fair bit of water and fiber; not to mention their nutritional value with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. And fresh fruit is low in calories.

Fiber is something that not only helps to fill you up (known as the “satiety factor”) but also helps to slow the release of the fruit sugar into your bloodstream and reduce the notorious “blood sugar spike.”  Berries are best!  (Tropical fruits like banana & mango…) are higher in sugar/calories).

Win-win!

Try a variety of fruit (apples, pears, berries, etc.) and pair that with a handful of nuts.

Tip: Can’t do fresh? Try frozen. Plus, they’re already chopped for you.

3 – Chia seeds

This is one of my personal favorites…

Chia is not only high in fibre (I mean HIGH in fibre), but it also contains protein and omega-3 fatty acids (yes THOSE omega-3s!). As well as antioxidants, calcium, and magnesium.

Can you see how awesome these tiny guys are?

They also absorb a lot of liquid, so by soaking them for a few minutes, they make a thick pudding (that is delicious and fills you up).

Tip: Put two tablespoons in a bowl with ½ cup of nut milk and wait a few minutes. Add in some berries, chopped fruit or nuts, and/or cinnamon and enjoy!

4 – Boiled or poached eggs

Eggs are packed with nutrition and most of it is in the yolk.

They contain a lot of high-quality protein and a good amount of vitamins and minerals.

And recent research shows that the cholesterol in the yolks is NOT associated with high elevated cholesterol or heart disease risk.

Yup, you read that right!

Tip: Boil a bunch of eggs and keep them in your fridge for a super-quick (and nutritious) snack!

Oh, and let’s not forget avocados – loaded with satiating healthy fats!

5 – Vegetables

I don’t need to tell you how great these are for you, but just maybe I need to sell you on the delicious “snackability” of these nutrition powerhouses.

Veggies contain fiber and water to help fill you up, and you don’t need me to tell you about their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, right?

You can easily open a bag of baby carrots and/or cherry tomatoes and give them a quick rinse (they’re already bite-sized).  Think broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, peppers & mushrooms too.

Tip: Use a bit of dip. Have you put almond butter on celery? How about trying my new hummus recipe below?

Conclusion:

Go ahead and try one, or more, of these healthy snacks. Prepare them the night before if you need to. They will not be “tasteless,” like “cardboard,” or “completely unsatisfying.” Trust me and just keep in mind they are “snacks” not a meal!

Recipe (Vegetable Dip): Hummus

Makes about 2 cups

1  can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained & rinsed

⅓ cup tahini

1 garlic clove

2 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 dash salt

1 dash pepper

1. Put all ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth. You may need to thin it out with a bit of water, so add it 1 or 2 tablespoons at a time and blend.

Serve & enjoy!

Tip: Don’t like sesame? Use an avocado in place of the tahini, and olive oil in place of the sesame oil.

Always in health,

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

Join my weekly newsletter for health & wellness tips, recipes & more.
Follow me on Facebook Prairie Hill Nutrition
Follow me on Instagram Cynthia Hill, NTP
Join my Facebook Group Live Your Best Health Forward!
http://www.prairiehillnutrition.com/

Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

References:

https://authoritynutrition.com/20-most-weight-loss-friendly-foods/

https://authoritynutrition.com/foods/almonds/

http://www.precisionnutrition.com/encyclopedia/food/almonds/

https://authoritynutrition.com/is-fruit-good-or-bad-for-your-health/

https://www.dietvsdisease.org/best-fruits-diabetics/

https://authoritynutrition.com/foods/apples/

https://authoritynutrition.com/fresh-vs-frozen-fruit-and-vegetables/

https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-health-benefits-of-chia-seeds/

The Best Fall Spices to Use This Season

 

Fall is officially here— we can smell it in our kitchens. The smells of fall spices are undeniably comforting and delicious, but some of your favorite fall spices also have fantastic health benefits. Make sure to include these spices in your fall dishes for some brilliant flavors and extra health kicks.

 

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is one of the healthiest spices on the planet. It contains an active compound known as curcumin, whose long list of proven health benefits includes fighting off unhealthy cells and slowing down the signs of aging. Curcumin also contains strong anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that it is beneficial in reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of inflammatory diseases. As a bonus, turmeric also adds a beautiful golden color to your dishes. Make sure to add black pepper whenever you use turmeric as it significantly improves the body’s absorption of curcumin.

 

2. Cinnamon

This famous fall spice contains a vast number of various antioxidants. Antioxidants are key for fighting off those damaging free radicals that can cause chronic diseases. It also contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Insulin is the primary hormone involved in blood sugar regulation. Therefore, cinnamon is a beneficial spice for individuals with insulin issues.

 

3. Nutmeg

You can’t have staple fall dishes, like apple and pumpkin pie or eggnog, without nutmeg. However, this powerful spice also contains many important nutrients. It is rich with manganese, copper, and magnesium, but it also contains many other essential vitamins and minerals. Some studies have shown that nutmeg can relieve pain, such as the joint pain experienced by individuals with arthritis. It is also often used as a natural remedy for insomnia because it helps you fall asleep easier and get good-quality, uninterrupted sleep.

 

4. Ginger

Ginger is well-known for its digestive health benefits. It is widely used for treating nausea and other digestive issues, such as an upset stomach and acid reflux. Adding ginger to your meals or making a ginger tea after a big fall feast can help your digestive system process all that food with ease. If you’re experiencing morning sickness or nausea for any other reason, ginger will provide you with relief. It also has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that can help your body fight against infections while also controlling inflammation.

 

5. Clove

Cloves are high in antioxidants, which help the body fight off disease-causing free radicals. They are also well-known for their health benefits for the liver. The liver is a powerhouse organ with many responsibilities. One of its main jobs is to break down unwanted or old molecules and prepare them for excretion from the body. However, sometimes in the process of breaking down unwanted molecules, damaging free radicals are produced as a by-product. These free radicals can build up in the liver and impair its function. Cloves and other antioxidant-rich foods can help clear away these free radicals from the liver and keep it (and you) healthy.

Tip:  To maximize the health benefits of spices (and herbs) look for non-irradiated on the label.  Anytime you can use spices in their whole form will boost their freshness, flavor, intensity and benefits.

 

A personal favorite of mine is whole nutmeg.  I love the fragrance freshly grated, and added to both sweet & savory dishes.

 

What spices will you be using this Fall?

Always in health,

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

Join my weekly newsletter for health & wellness tips, recipes & more.
Follow me on Facebook Prairie Hill Nutrition
Follow me on Instagram Cynthia Hill, NTP
Join my Facebook Group Live Your Best Health Forward!
http://www.prairiehillnutrition.com/

Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

This post contains affiliate links.

Can My Symptoms Actually Be a Food Intolerance?

Food intolerances or “sensitivities” can affect you in so many ways.

And they’re a lot more common than most people think.

I’m not talking about anaphylaxis or immediate allergic reactions that involve an immune response. Those can be serious and life-threatening.  If you have any allergies, you need to steer clear of any traces of foods you are allergic to, and speak with your doctor or pharmacist about emergency medication if necessary.

What I’m talking about, is an intolerance or sensitivity, meaning you do not tolerate a specific food very well and it causes immediate or chronic symptoms anywhere in the body. Symptoms can take hours or even days to show themselves. And symptoms can be located just about anywhere in the body.

This is what makes them so tricky to identify.

Symptoms of food intolerances

There are some common food intolerances that have immediate and terribly painful gastrointestinal symptoms, such as lactose intolerance or celiac disease. These can cause stomach pain, gas, bloating, and/or diarrhea; symptoms can start immediately after eating lactose or gluten.

 

On the other hand, other more insidious symptoms may not be linked to foods in an obvious way.

Symptoms like:

• Chronic muscle or joint pain
• Sweating, or increased heart rate or blood pressure
• Headaches or migraines
• Exhaustion after a good night’s sleep
• Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s or rheumatoid arthritis
• Rashes or eczema
• Inability to concentrate or feeling like your brain is “foggy”
• Shortness of breath

If your body has trouble digesting specific foods, it can affect your hormones, metabolism, or even cause inflammation and result in any of the symptoms listed above. And these can affect any (or all) parts of the body, not just your gastrointestinal system.

How to prevent these intolerances

The main thing you can do is to figure out which foods or drinks you may be reacting to and stop ingesting them.

I know, I know…this sounds so simple, and yet it can be SO HARD. Often times it is the very foods we crave and consume regularly that are the foods we are sensitive to!

The best way to identify your food/drink triggers is to eliminate them.

Yup, get rid of those offending foods/drinks. All traces of them, for three full weeks and monitor your symptoms.

If things get better, then you need to decide whether it’s worth it to stop ingesting them, or if you want to slowly introduce them back one at a time while still looking out to see if/when symptoms return.

Start Here: Two common food intolerances

Here are two of the most common triggers of food intolerances:

• Lactose (in dairy – eliminate altogether, or look for a “lactose-free” label – try nut or coconut milk instead).
• Gluten (in wheat, rye, and other common grains – look for a “gluten-free” label – try gluten-free grains like rice, quinoa & gluten-free oats).

This is by no means a complete list, but it’s a good place to start because lactose intolerance is thought to affect up to 75% of people, while “non-celiac gluten sensitivity” can affect up to 13% of people.

So, if you can eliminate all traces of lactose and gluten for three weeks, it can confirm whether either or both of these, are a source of your symptoms.

Yes, dairy and grains are a part of many government-recommended food guidelines, but you absolutely can get all of the nutrients you need if you focus on replacing them with nutrient-dense foods.

A reliable way to monitor how you feel after eating certain foods is to track it. After every meal or snack, write down the foods you ate, how you feel after, and any symptoms so you can more easily spot trends.

Click here to download a free copy of my Weekly Diet Diary/Food Journal to help you track.

And, as I mentioned earlier, symptoms may not start immediately following a meal. You may find, for example, that you wake up with a headache the morning after eating bananas.

You might be surprised what links you can find if you track your food and symptoms well!

IMPORTANT NOTE: When you eliminate something, you need to make sure it’s not hiding in other foods, or the whole point of eliminating it for a few weeks is lost. Restaurant food, packaged foods, and sauces or dressings are notorious for adding ingredients that you’d never think are there. You know that sugar hides in almost everything, but did you also know that wheat is often added to processed meats and soy sauce, and lactose can even be found in some medications or supplements?

When in doubt you HAVE to ask the server in a restaurant about hidden ingredients, read labels, and consider cooking from scratch.

What if it doesn’t work?

If eliminating these two common food intolerances doesn’t work, then you can go one step further to eliminate all dairy (even lactose-free) and all grains (even gluten-free) for three weeks.

You may need to see a qualified healthcare practitioner for help, and that’s OK. I don’t want you to continue suffering if you don’t need to!  Having food intolerances does not necessarily mean you can never eat that food again.  By identifying and healing your gut issues (such as leaky gut which often can lead to food sensitivities or can cause them) you may be able to enjoy suspect foods again.

Another way to identify food sensitivities is food intolerance testing.  Look for a quality test that detects both igG antibodies and compliment antigen together like the KBMO Diagnostics FIT test that tests 132 foods, colorings & additives. KBMO also offers a FIT 22 test which tests for the top 22 allergens. A Zonulin marker test can identify leaky gut and candida.  All of these tests are simple finger blood prick tests available in my practice.

Recipe (dairy-free milk): Homemade Nut/Seed Milk

Makes 3 cups

Ingredients

½ cup raw nuts/seeds (almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds)

2 cups water

¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Soak nuts/seeds for about 8 hours (optional, but recommended).
2. Dump soaking water & rinse nuts/seeds.
3. Add soaked nuts/seeds and 2 cups water to a high-speed blender and blend on high for about one minute until very smooth.
4. Strain through a small mesh sieve with 2 layers of cheesecloth. Squeeze if necessary.

Serve & enjoy!

Tip: You can double the recipe and store the milk in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.

Always in health,

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

Join my weekly newsletter for health & wellness tips, recipes & more.
Follow me on Facebook Prairie Hill Nutrition
Follow me on Instagram Cynthia Hill, NTP
Join my Facebook Group Live Your Best Health Forward!
http://www.prairiehillnutrition.com/

Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

References:

http://www.dietvsdisease.org/11-warning-signs-you-have-a-food-intolerance/

https://authoritynutrition.com/lactose-intolerance-101/

https://authoritynutrition.com/signs-you-are-gluten-intolerant/

http://www.precisionnutrition.com/food-sensitivities-health-infographic

All About Digestive Enzymes

Not everyone should be taking digestive enzyme supplements; and not all of them are created equal.

As a practitioner, I find that many people with digestive issues want to jump straight into using a supplement. And many times I would rather try other strategies first. Not to mention, that some supplements can be harmful if used inappropriately.

So, let’s dive into a few of the common digestive enzymes, what they do, and who should NOT take them.

What are digestive enzymes?

Technically, “enzymes” are compounds that help critical biochemical reactions to happen in your body. These reactions can be anything, from making neurotransmitters like serotonin, to burning food for energy, to breaking down food we eat into smaller pieces that our guts can absorb.

Oh, and they all end with “ase”.

As I just hinted, “digestive enzymes” are specifically those enzymes we use for digestion. They’re enzymes that our digestive system naturally makes and secretes when we eat.

Now, all of the “macronutrients” we eat (carbs, protein & fat) need to be broken down into their individual (smaller) parts so that we can properly absorb and digest them. They’re just too big otherwise, and if we don’t absorb them properly, we can get symptoms of fatigue, malnutrition, digestive distress, or a host of other symptoms.

It is these individual (smaller) parts that our body amazingly rearranges and uses to create other larger molecules that our body needs.

The most common digestive enzymes you’ll see on product labels are:

• Amylase – Helps to break down starch into its sugars.
• alpha-Galactosidase – Helps to break down specific “fermentable carbohydrates” into its sugars.
• Lactase – Helps to break down lactose into its sugars.
• Protease – Helps to break down protein into its amino acids.
• Bromelain and/or Papain – Help to break down protein into its amino acids.
• Lipase – Helps to break down fats into its lipids.

Who should consider taking digestive enzymes?

I would always recommend that you see a qualified health care practitioner for an expert opinion on whether your issues can be related to digestion, and which, if any, supplements can help you.

In general, the most common digestive symptoms that enzymes *may* help with are bloating, cramping, and/or diarrhea. Particularly if it happens after eating certain foods (think lactose-intolerance symptoms after eating dairy).

One reason for these symptoms can be that food particles are not broken down properly, and the larger pieces travel further down the digestive tract to the microbiota where those little critters start breaking them down themselves. And this is definitely troublesome for certain people.

Don’t get me wrong, a healthy gut microbiota is absolutely essential for good health. And more and more research is showing just how it can affect not only our digestion, but also our immune system, and even our mood.

What do I need to know? – Medical conditions

Of course, you should read the label of any products you take, and take them as directed, especially if they’re not specifically recommended for you by your health care practitioner who knows your history.

Here are two critical things to be aware of:

1 – Digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates into sugars are not recommended for diabetics, or pregnant/breastfeeding women.

This is because taking them breaks down more carbohydrates into sugars than your body normally would; so, anyone at risk of blood sugar issues should take caution.

2 – When it comes to enzymes that break down proteins into amino acids, there are a few people who should avoid them because of potential interactions. That is if you have an ulcer, or are taking blood-thinners or anti-inflammatories, or if you’re having surgery.

The reason is because the digestive enzymes that break down protein are thought to cause or worsen ulcers, as well as have the ability to “thin” the blood and prevent normal clotting.

What do I need to know? – Possible Side effects

Using digestive enzyme supplements for a prolonged period of time may well justify an appointment with a knowledgeable practitioner. There may be strategies other than daily supplementation that can serve you better.

If you find that your symptoms get worse, or even if they don’t get better, you should probably stop using them.

Allergies are always a possiblity, so if you know or suspect you’re allergic, then you should avoid them.

And, as always, keep supplements away from children.

Before considering a digestive enzyme supplement

You shouldn’t just jump to supplementing with digestive enzymes without a proper diagnosis, or trying a few strategies first.

My first recommendation for digestive distress would be to relax more, eat slower, and chew more thoroughly. This helps to break down food and can put less stress on your digestive tract.

The second step would be to try eliminating certain troublesome foods from your diet (dairy & gluten, for example) and see if that helps.

Conclusion:

While many supplements are safe products, they’re not all for everyone.

I recommend that you:

• Read your labels carefully (who should take them, how to take them, when to stop taking them).
• If you have a medical condition or are taking medications speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
• If you want expert advice on whether a specific supplement is for you, speak with a qualified health care practitioner.

Recipe (food containing bromelain & papain): Tropical (digestive) smoothie

Serves 1

1 cup pineapple, diced

1 cup papaya, diced

1 banana, chopped

1 cup coconut milk

ice if desired

Put all ingredients(except ice) into the blender and blend. Add ice if desired.

Serve & enjoy!

Tip: The levels of enzymes in whole pineapple and papaya aren’t as concentrated as taking them in a supplement; so if you’re not allergic to these delicious fruits, you can try this smoothie.

Always in health,

Cynthia

More ways to connect with me:

Join my weekly newsletter for health & wellness tips, recipes & more.
Follow me on Facebook Prairie Hill Nutrition
Follow me on Instagram Cynthia Hill, NTP
Join my Facebook Group Live Your Best Health Forward!
http://www.prairiehillnutrition.com/

Are you confused about what to eat and not eat for optimum health?  Sick of yo-yo dieting? Do you feel sluggish & bloated after eating or have a lack energy throughout the day? If this describes you, click here and select “free call” to connect with me on a 5 minute call. We can discuss your concerns and I can give you some tips to help support your diet, digestion and energy levels.

References:

https://www.dietvsdisease.org/digestive-enzyme-supplements/

http://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/monoReq.do?id=514&lang=eng

http://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/monoReq.do?id=516&lang=eng

http://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/monoReq.do?id=196&lang=eng

http://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/monoReq.do?id=508&lang=eng

http://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/monoReq.do?id=515&lang=eng

Natural Medicines Database, Bromelain, Papain, Retrieved January 21, 2017 from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com