Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric & Ginger Smoothie

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Turmeric and ginger are two incredible roots that are helpful in reducing inflammation. Turmeric has extremely powerful anti-inflammatory effects in addition to it being an antioxidant. It is bright orange in color and will stain just about anything it touches (so beware). I always tell people to eat foods that stain your hands, and turmeric (along with beets, berries, tomatoes, etc.) is a great example of that. The color in fresh fruits and vegetables are powerful antioxidants, so the richer the color the richer the antioxidants! Ginger is known for not only it’s anti-inflammatory properties, but also it’s ability to aid in digestion.

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Both roots have a bittery spiced earth flavor and hearty stringy texture, so eating them raw (or ground) can be a little difficult if you’re not a huge spice lover. I find it difficult to incorporate these medicinal roots into my own diet, so I came up with an awesome smoothie recipe to help myself benefit from their anti-inflammatory effects.

You may intimidated by something that looks like it could be inedible, but have no fear; fresh turmeric and ginger root are super simple to prepare! They can be found in almost all grocery stores in the produce section. They’re usually by the garlic, potatoes, and other non-refrigerated/dry produce. Most all grocery stores sell them both by the pound, so you just can buy as much as you want to have at a time.

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10 Tips for Transitioning to a Vegan Diet

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    1. I’ve seen lots of people watch a vegan-friendly documentary or read an article on plant-based diets and go cold turkey (or Tofurky, if you will) giving up all meat, dairy, and egg products immediately. While this ambition and drive is awesome, Ive seen it almost always lead to disappointment and failure to maintain a plant-based diet. I always urge people start slow, and make reasonable goals that will help maintain motivation and long-term success. I started with eliminating meat products, once I grew comfortable with that I began to eliminate dairy products, and lastly eggs. Starting where you’re most comfortable can make the transition smooth and realistic and not seem as daunting or overwhelming. Easing into a whole new way of eating will make going vegan more obtainable and sustainable.
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This step is huge and one of the most important parts of becoming, staying, and thriving on a plant-based lifestyle. There is so much incredible research, and studies that backup the power of plant-based eating, knowing just how powerful it can be is helpful when transitioning into this lifestyle as well as sustaining this way of eating. Knowing the power you have on your own health can help you to make consistent and educated food choices. When I say research I don’t mean reading journal reviews, lengthy clinical studies, or even books… it can be as simple as watching some Youtube videos , documentaries (Forks Over Knives, PlantPure Nation, What The Health), or spending a little time on google looking up some questions or doubts you may have.

Knowledge is power! 

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How to Love Your Heart

I’m a little late on bringing some heart health awareness during Heart Health Awareness month, but it’s never too late to give your heart some love!

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February is (was) a month dedicated to heart health awareness. Maintaining good heart health is important when it comes to preventing chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Millions of Americans are suffering from high blood pressure which can lead to heart attacks, stroke, and/or heart disease so keeping blood pressure under control is a great start to preventing health problems down the road.

One easy way to start taking control of your blood pressure is through the foods that you eat. Every day, at every meal YOU have the chance to take control of your heart health.

Here are some easy, and helpful tips to keeping blood pressure low and preventing heart disease:

  • Eat less meat: Reducing your intake of meat helps to lower overall saturated fat intake. Saturated fat can lead to high cholesterol levels, as well as raise blood pressure. Take one or two days out of the week to go meatless, replacing it with other protein sources such as beans, tofu, tempeh, or meat-free alternatives (veggie burgers, plant-based meats, etc.)

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Nutritionist vs. Dietitian: What’s The Difference?

Most people don’t see much of a difference between the title “nutritionist” and “dietitian,” but there is actually a huge difference between the two. Anyone that is interested in the health and nutrition world, needs to know the difference, and why titles matter in this field.

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Nutritionist:

Legally, anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. I am one, you are one, your mother is one, your father is one, all of your friends are nutritionist. There are no regulations when using that term or title. Someone that says they are a nutritionist may not have any schooling in nutrition, and are not regulated by any sort of organization or accreditation. This can be dangerous, because most “nutritionist” are self-taught and may not get their information, or “advice” rom reliable, evidence-based sources. Continue reading “Nutritionist vs. Dietitian: What’s The Difference?”

Why I Hate The Ag-Gag Bill

You’ve probably heard or seen articles discussing the Ag-Gag bills being brought up, passed, or overturned in many states throughout the US. But what exactly is it and what does it mean? Today, I’m hoping to answer some of those questions as well as let you know why I get super annoyed by it.

So ag-gag is essentially a bill that has been passed in many states throughout the US in hopes to eliminate all whistle-blowing acts in animal agriculture. This bill allows no type of recording, monitoring, or exposure (without the facility manager’s consent) of the inside of an any animal agriculture facility. Basically, anyone that attempts to expose the truth, can be criminally punished.

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