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I was at my friend Suzie Humphreys’ house one weekend, and she made this delicious salad one night for dinner. I was in the process of writing one of my books, and she generously gifted me her recipe as a contribution to my “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian” cookbook. I love it so much, I thought I would share it with you.

Suzie likes to use La Martinique French salad dressing, but when I looked at the ingredients, it had cotton seed oil as an ingredient. Cotton seed oil is NOT food. I always avoid ingesting it. It also has soy in it, which I believe to be extremely bad for my health. Another ingredient in it is oligofructose, which has the “side-effects” of: cramps, nausea, bloating, gas, diarrhea, itching of the throat, puffiness in the eye, face, and mouth, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, hives, itching, and eczema.

So, you will see, I decided to put my home-made French Vinaigrette Dressing on her Greek Salad. So, we should say this is an international salad!

Greek Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

1 c. romaine lettuce, torn in bite-sized pieces

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped

1 red pepper, seeded and chopped

1⁄4 c. red onion, cut into small, thin slivers

1⁄4 c. black olives

1⁄4 c. green onions

1 stalk celery, chopped

1 tomato, chopped

3⁄4 c. feta cheese

French Vinaigrette salad dressing (recipe below)

Directions:

1. Toss all ingredients together with salad dressing.

French Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

Homemade salad dressings are easy to make, and I highly recommend doing so. This recipe calls for balsamic vinegar. When making salad dressings, I feel it is very important to use freshly-ground black pepper, which has unique health properties that are very powerful. Also, always use Dijon mustard.

Ingredients:

• 1/8 teaspoon mineral-rich pink salt 

• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1 T. small shallot, peeled and minced

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 3 to 4 tablespoons (45ml to 60ml) olive oil

• fresh herbs, if desired

Directions:

• In a small bowl, combine the mineral-rich salt, black pepper, vinegar, and shallot. Let this sit for about ten minutes, so the flavors can meld together.

• Mix in the Dijon mustard, add 3 tablespoons of organic extra virgin olive oil.

• Stir well, and always taste your recipe.

If it’s too sharp, add additional olive oil and/or more salt.

This salad dressings will keep refrigerated for 2 days.

The post Suzie Humphreys’ Healthy Greek Salad Recipe appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

If you enjoy Asian food, this is a classic Thai soup that has all the savory Thai flavors!

This soup is a delicious way to add some mushrooms to your diet. According to a study conducted by The University of Western Australia in Perth, eating mushrooms daily may reduce breast cancer risk by nearly two thirds. The study, conducted in China, looked at more than 2000 women, half of whom had suffered from breast cancer.

Researchers found that the women who ate a third of an ounce of fresh mushrooms every day had lowered their risk of developing a tumor by 64%. Dried mushrooms didn’t have quite the same benefit, but still reduced the risk “by around half.”

This soup is gluten-free and vegan.

Ingredients

1 pound organic mushrooms, cut into bite-sized chunks

1 small onion, chopped

3 large carrots, chopped

2 cups shredded or chopped Swiss chard (or other greens)

1 bunch green onions, chopped

1 lime, juiced

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

1 tablespoon chopped ginger

1/2 tablespoon red pepper flakes (more or less depending on your heat tolerance)

2 cups organic coconut milk

1 quart organic vegetable broth

Unrefined mineral-rich sea salt, to taste

1 T. pure, organic coconut oil

Directions

1. In a large stockpot, cook the mushrooms in the coconut oil for a couple of minutes.

2. Add the chopped onion, carrots and garlic.

3. Sauté for 4-5 minutes and then add the ginger and vegetable broth.

4. Bring the soup to a low boil and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.

5. Add the chopped Swiss chard, cilantro, lime juice, green onions and coconut milk. Continue cooking for about 10 more minutes.

6. Taste the soup, then add the sea salt to your liking.

7. Serve warm.

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During my work with people who have diabetes, I have found that they show remarkable improvement in their health and well-being from consuming a plant-based and almost completely raw-food diet. Dr. Gabriel Cousens promotes a mostly raw food, vegan diet for his Diabetic patients who would like to reduce their medications.

After they complete the program, they understand that the type of food they eat has a direct impact on their health. (2) In 2014, Cardiovascular Diagnosis and Therapy published a study in which researchers performed a meta-analysis of six significant prior research studies. Researchers found that a plant-based diet significantly improved blood sugar control in Type 2 diabetes.

The results were that plant-based diets improved a key indicator of blood sugar control, an indicator called Hemoglobin A1c. The results improved as much as 1.2 points, which is much greater than the effect of typical oral diabetes medications. (3)

The benefits of excluding meat, cheese, and eggs from the diet was as much as 0.7 points in some of the studies, and averaged 0.4 points overall. (4)

Dr. James Anderson studied 25 Type 1 and 25 Type 2 diabetics. This study involved placing the patients on a high-fiber, high-carbohydrate, low- fat diet in a hospital setting. Dr. Anderson initially put the patients on the American Diabetes Association recommended diet plan for one week. Then he switched them over to a vegetarian, plant-based diet for three weeks.

None of these patients were overweight when they started the study, but they were on insulin shots to control their blood sugar levels. All through the study, Dr. Anderson measured their blood sugar levels, their cholesterol levels, their medications, and their weight. Type 1 diabetics cannot produce insulin, and it was thought that dietary changes would not affect this situation. But, the results showed that after three weeks on a vegetarian, whole-food, high-fiber diet, the “Type 1 diabetics were able to lower their insulin medication by an average of 40%”, “their blood sugar profiles improved dramatically”. (5)

These results were more impressive with the Type 2 diabetics who had not incurred as much damage to their pancreas. After three weeks on the high-fiber, vegetarian diet, 24 of the 25 Type 2 diabetics could discontinue their insulin medication completely.

The one Type 2 diabetic who wasn’t able to get off his medication had been a 25-year diabetic taking 35 units per day. After three weeks of vegetarian food, his requirement dropped down to only eight units per day. As he continued the vegetarian eating plan at home, he was able to cut out all insulin shots after another eight weeks. (6)

Studies have shown that eating more plant- based whole food increases your dietary fiber intake. This can be extremely important to “protect from the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, some gastrointestinal disorders, hypertension, obesity, and non-insulin-dependent diseases. Furthermore, increasing fiber intake provides therapeutic advantages for the management of high blood lipids, certain gastrointestinal disorders, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes”. (7)

Besides adopting a plant-based diet, diabetics can take six important dietary food supplements to regulate their blood sugar and support their health:

1. Chromium
2. Cinnamon
3. Omega-3 Fatty-acids
4. Vitamin D
5. Zinc
6. Unrefined, Mineral-rich Salt

The mineral chromium helps transport glucose from the blood to the muscles. According to the National Institutes of Health, “Chromium is known to enhance the action of insulin, a hormone critical to the metabolism and storage of carbohydrates, fat, and protein in the body.” (8)

People who eat non-organic foods have a greater likelihood of being deficient in this important trace mineral. The chemical fertilizers used in industrial farming destroy chromium that would naturally be in the soil. This is one of many reasons organic food is always the best choice at the grocery store.

Chromium supplements should have GTF (Glucose Tolerance Factor) on the label. It should say, “Chromium GTF”. Avoid synthetic supplements that don’t list whole, organic foods as the ingredients.

Cinnamon is emerging as a true wonder food. Cinnamon is a spice, and it’s obtained from the inner bark of a few tree species. Research shows that cinnamon can help lower blood sugar, and triglyceride levels in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Cinnamon contains antioxidants that create healthier arteries and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Cinnamon can also benefit us with increased alertness and energized senses. Even a teaspoon a day helps tame blood sugar levels.

Ceylon cinnamon is the best cinnamon to use. Cassia, Saigon, and Chinese cinnamon contain five percent coumarin, which is problematic for the liver. Ceylon cinnamon has only .0004 percent coumarin. Sprinkle it on your morning toast, oatmeal, or other dishes.

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats our bodies cannot make and must obtain from food.

Studies show that adding omega-3 to your diet promotes healthy blood sugar levels. Try adding cold-pressed, organic flax or hemp seed oil to your smoothies and other foods, like oatmeal chia seed pudding in the morning.

Vitamin D (known as the sunshine vitamin) is a prohormone; that is, a fat-soluble vitamin. It is in a family of compounds that includes Vitamins D-1, D-2, and D-3. These vitamins can affect as many as 2,000 genes in the body.

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine studied the medical information of 124 subjects between the ages of 36 and 89 with Type 2 diabetes. Those with the lowest levels of Vitamin D had the highest levels of blood sugar. Only six percent of the subjects were taking a Vitamin D supplement. You may need to address a possible Vitamin D deficiency. I supplement my Vitamin D intake with a whole-food, organic, raw multi- vitamin.

Zinc is one of the most important minerals used by the body. It helps with the production of approximately 100 enzymes. Zinc contributes to building up the immune system. Zinc is required for protein and DNA synthesis, insulin activity, and liver function.

Zinc is not really stored in our bodies, so we need a regular supply. Men need about one-third more zinc than women, because the prostate gland and semen are highly concentrated with zinc. A zinc deficiency may appear as skin problems, impairment of taste, a poor immune system, hair loss, diarrhea, fatigue, wounds not healing properly, or a poor or slow growth rate for infants.

Even if you eat zinc-rich foods, you may need a supplement, because phytic acid and dietary fiber in certain foods can inhibit the absorption of zinc. If you take a vitamin supplement of any kind (such as a multi-vitamin, Vitamin D, chromium, or zinc), make sure it is in a natural form, not a synthetic one. Synthetic forms of any nutrient can be harmful to the body (9). Instead, buy dietary supplements that show whole, organic foods in their ingredient list.

Unrefined mined salt promotes the proper balance for the endocrine, adrenal, and thyroid glands to function properly. It supports healthy blood pressure, detoxifies the body, and—along with water—is necessary for the optimal functioning of the immune system, hormonal system, and cardiovascular health. (10)

Dr. David Brownstein says low-salt diets “promote toxicity” and have: …adverse effects on numerous metabolic markers, including promoting elevated insulin levels and insulin resistance. Finally, low-salt diets will lead to mineral deficiencies and the development of chronic disease.(11)

In conclusion, you can see that diet is a huge factor in curing or managing diabetes, and also preventing many diseases that diabetes often leads to, including blindness, amputation, stroke, and heart disease.

Additionally, it can prevent having to take insulin injections for the rest of your life.

My award-winning book, “Diabetes and your Diet,” can be an extremely helpful resource for you. The book includes nutrition information and recipes, and is available in large print and audio.

It’s a personal decision that no one can make for you. I always feel it is so powerful when someone finally decides to take control of their health and well-being, and chooses to make the necessary changes. It all starts with making that decision and taking action to execute it.

Contact me if I can help you in any way.

Sources:
1 Yokoyama Y, Barnard ND, Levin SM, Watanabe M. (Oct., 2014). “Vegetarian diets and glycemic control in diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Cardiovasc Diagn Ther, 4(5): 373-382. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PM C4221319/
2 Cousens, Gabriel. (2008). There is a Cure for Diabetes. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books.
3 Yokoyama et. al. 4 Ibid. 5 Anderson, James W. (Dec., 1990). “Dietary Fiber and Human Health.” HortScience, 25(12): 1488-1495. http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/25/ 12/1488.full.pdf
6 Ibid.
7 Ibid.
8 National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. “Chromium: Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet.” http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Chromium- HealthProfessional/#h10
9 Hendler, SS, & Rorvik, D. (2008). PDR for Nutritional Supplements. Physicians’ Desk Reference Inc: Montvale, NJ. Includes the following relevant articles: Hendler, SS, & Rorvik, D, eds. (2001). “PDR for Nutritional Supplements.” In Medical Economics. Montvale, NJ; Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M. (1999). Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 9th ed. Williams & Wilkins: Baltimore, MD; R. Thiel. (2000). “Natural vitamins may be superior to synthetic ones.” Med Hypo, 55(6):461-469.
10 Brownstein, David. (2012). Salt Your Way to Health. 2nd edition. Medical Alternative Press.
11 Ibid.

Copyright@nancyaddison2018

Excerpt from “Diabetes And Your Diet” by Nancy Addison.

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer:
Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Diet Can Be A Powerful Treatment For Diabetes appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

This is a great broth, especially for someone who isn’t feeling well. I drain off the vegetables and drink the broth. You can save the vegetables and eat them, or eat it all together as a vegetable soup. This is a very alkalizing meal.

Ingredients

1 zucchini
4 carrots
2 celery stalks
1 large potato (preferably purple, yam, or sweet potato)
1⁄2 onion
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1 teaspoon organic, cold-pressed coconut oil
Mineral-rich salt to taste
Pepper to taste
5 c. pure, mineral-rich water

Directions

1. Cut vegetables into small bite-sized chunks.
2. Place vegetable chunks in a large pot with water, coconut oil, and salt.
3. Bring to a light boil, then turn down to a simmer.
4. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
5. Add garlic, if using, at the end for a few minutes to simmer.
6. Strain off vegetables and drink broth.

Variation: Substitute frozen vegetables for fresh.

Note: Garlic is fragile. Don’t cook it too long. You want it to retain as much of its nutritional value as possible.

Serving size: 6 servings

Remember, the main ingredient is always love!

copyright@nancyaddison2024

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison
Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Ingredients:

2 c. whole, sprouted-grain brown basmati rice

4 c. non-chlorinated water

½  tsp. mineral-rich salt

1 T. extra virgin, pure coconut oil

1–2 T. ghee (optional)

Directions:

1. Use sprouted whole-grain rice or if your rice is not already sprouted, this is what to do.
Soak the rice for 12 to 16 hours or overnight in pure water to sprout it, then pour off the water and get fresh water to cook it in.

2. After soaking for 12 to 16 hours, you rinse the rice thoroughly in a small-weave sieve until water runs clear.
Set aside.

3. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add the sprouted rice, mineral-rich salt, coconut oil, and let boil for a couple of minutes while stirring.

4. Reduce heat to a simmer.

5. Cover pot tightly and do not disturb for 35 to 40 minutes. Do not stir.

6. When it looks as if all the water is absorbed, (a clear lid on the pot is helpful), the rice is ready.

7. Let rice sit in the pot (off the heat) for five minutes. Fluff rice with a fork.

8. Add ghee, if using, and stir gently.

9. Gently scoop out the rice and serve warm.

Notes:

1. A rice cooker is an easy way to make rice quickly and perfectly every time.

2. Long-grain rice is fluffier, whereas medium-grain is a little moister.

By Nancy Addison

copyright@nancyaddison2012

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer:

Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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According to the Cleveland Clinic, the pigments are called carotenoids. “Carotenoids are pigments that give fruits and veggies their color and are antioxidants that protect your cells from free radicals. These powerful antioxidants help protect your immune system and your vision.”

I am a salad aficionado, and I thought I would share some of my favorite salad dressing recipes with you in this “recipe of the month” newsletter.

To make a salad healthier and more interesting, I like to add some nutritious raisins, cranberries, various fresh sprouts, or sprouted pumpkin and sunflower seeds, as well as sprouted nuts (like cashews or pecans) to my salad.

When my son was young, he did not like salads. When I started adding slices of orange or tangerine to the salads, he started eating them eagerly! I was thrilled! My daughter-in-law puts raspberries and other berries in their salads and my son and grandchildren just love them.

I have searched extensively at the grocery store for organic salad dressings without preservatives, canola oil, or GMO ingredients, but they are simply not easy to find.

When I make my own homemade dressings, I know they are organic, and without preservatives, chemical additives, canola oil, artificial substances, sugar, or GMO ingredients.

Oil and vinegar dressing is always delicious, and it’s a French basic, which has become a beloved recipe.

Homemade vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Because of that, I feel it’s worth the few minutes it takes to mix it up by hand.

Traditional French vinaigrette recipes call for 1 tablespoon vinegar (like Balsamic vinegar, which adds just a touch of sweetness, or red wine vinegar) for every 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil. In addition to that combination, I love to add a dash of unprocessed, raw, probiotic-rich apple cider vinegar to mine for the additional health benefits. I also add a tiny bit of organic Dijon mustard to the mixture, which adds just a hint of creaminess and flavor.

I love garlic, and it’s incredible what it can do for our health, especially when we eat it fresh. Fresh garlic is packed with antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and manganese.

When fresh garlic is chopped or cut, it activates an enzyme called alliinase. When the alliinase is left to rest for 10 to 15 minutes, it converts into alliin (an organosulfur compound) that has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and cardioprotective properties.

Because of the extraordinary health benefits of fresh garlic, I add a bit of freshly minced garlic to this mixture, creating a rich, health benefiting dressing.

This vinaigrette dressing is a wonderful dressing to use on stronger flavored leafy greens, like kale, or dandelion, arugula, or spinach. You may choose to leave out the mustard and/or garlic if the salad consists of very light, mild-flavored leafy greens.

Nancy’s Vinaigrette

This classic dressing is delicious.

I encourage you to make this ahead of time, so the dressing flavors can meld together before you add them to the salad. This recipe makes ½ cup.

Ingredients:

6 to 7 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or you can use red or white wine vinegar)

½ tsp. raw, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar

1/4 teaspoon fine pink mineral-rich salt

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 clove finely minced or chopped garlic

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt. Let the mixture stand 10 minutes.

2. Next, whisk in the mustard.

3. Then add the oil in a very slow, thin, steady stream, whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified.

4. Season with the remaining fine pink salt and freshly ground black pepper.

The next two salad dressing recipes need to be combined in a blender, and they take a little more time, but they add a depth of flavor and creamy richness to the salads, and I love them.

These salad dressings will keep refrigerated for 2 days.

All are 2 servings.

Note: Serve over a variety of greens and/or chopped-up vegetables. Some examples of good nutritious greens are: green lettuces, baby spinach, baby kale, watercress, and red leaf lettuce.

Cucumber Dressing

This was one of Larry Hagman’s favorites when I was his chef/nutritionist.

Ingredients:

1 cucumber (chopped into chunks with skin)

1 avocado (peeled, pitted and diced)

1 -2 tsp. unpasteurized apple cider vinegar.

¼ tsp. unrefined sea salt

Directions:

1. Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

2. You can store this dressing in the refrigerator in a glass jar with a tight lid for a day or two..

Creamy Avocado Dressing

This is a rich, creamy dressing.

Ingredients:

1 avocado

1 clove garlic, freshly minced

1/2 cucumber, chopped

1/4 tsp. unrefined, pink salt

1/2 cup extra-virgin, organic olive oil

1 T. lime or lemon juice (fresh)

¼ tsp. raw, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar

Directions:

1. Combine avocado, garlic, cucumber, lime or lemon juice, vinegar, and salt in a blender until creamy.

2. Add olive oil in a slow, steady stream into the blender on low.
It will create a creamy salad dressing.

Variation:

Substitute balsamic vinegar for lemon juice

copyright@nancyaddison2024

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com

Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer:

Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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This is an easy, delicious, and refreshing soup to serve cool, on a warm summer day. I have frequently served this to guests when they arrive at my home!

Cucumbers are especially good because they contain a “hormone needed by the beta cells of the pancreas to produce insulin. The enzyme crepsin in cucumbers is targeted toward breaking down excessive protein in the kidneys.” (1) Cucumbers have an amazing amount of nutrients in them. They can be used extensively in a healthy and healing eating plan!

Ingredients

1 Avocado (peeled and the seed removed)

1 Cucumber ( I cut into chunks, but leave the skin on)

4 T. Dill weed ( fresh is best, but dried works also)

2 teaspoons Lime or Lemon juice

½ teaspoon Mineral-rich, pink Salt

¼ cup Pure, Mineral-rich Water

Directions

1. Blend in blender until smooth and creamy. (If it is too thick, add some more water.)

Source:1. Cousens, Gabriel and Rainoshek, David. (2008). There is a Cure for Diabetes. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books. p. 192.

Notes:

1. Remember to buy organic and non-GMO foods, if possible.

Remember, the main ingredient is always love!

copyright@nancyaddison2015

Medical Disclaimer:

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Yet ideas about how much and what type of protein we need have changed over time. Even today, experts’ opinions vary. What is important is that you make the right diet choices for your individual needs. Let’s look at all the research to date.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, Russell Henry Chittenden, the father of biochemistry, was disturbed that physicians were recommending high-protein diets of 135 grams a day. He thought this was wrong and set out to test this dietary theory. Chittenden began by doing a study on himself using a low-protein diet. He lost weight, had more energy, got rid of his arthritic joint pain, and was, in his opinion, healthier than he had been on a high-protein diet.

He began testing colleagues, students, and athletes at Yale. On the low-protein diet, they all had more energy, felt better, and actually increased their performance ability by more than 35 percent. In 1904, Chittenden concluded that “35–50 grams of protein a day was adequate for adults, and individuals could maintain their health and fitness on this amount. Studies over the past century have consistently confirmed Professor Chittenden’s findings.”(1) The current recommended daily allowance of protein for adults is 46–56 grams per day. (2)

Some studies say that the amount and type of protein a person should eat depends upon his or her blood type. Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo and Catherine Whitney’s book Eat Right 4 Your Type looks at the connection between blood type, diet, and health.

My blood type is O, as is my daughter’s. The book says that “O blood types are meant to thrive best on a high protein (red meat) and low carbohydrate diet.” (3) I have been vegetarian for 35 years, and so has my daughter. We do extremely well on a healthy vegetarian diet, but we do make sure we consume enough protein-rich organic, sprouted, plant-based foods like beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, whole-grain rice, and quinoa, and have a good amount of healthy fats in our diet.

The authors say that A blood types are supposed to be vegetarian (high carbohydrate and low fat); B blood types should eat dairy, meat, fish, grains, vegetables, and fruit; and AB blood types should consume mostly vegetarian food, with moderate meat and dairy. In the book, the authors list various foods that are good, better, best, or worst for each blood type. (4) It is up to you to decide if this theory is right for you.

Many athletes today are filling their bodies with protein-rich food, thinking it will make them stronger and their muscles bigger. According to the Vegetarian Resource Group: Athletes used to eat thick steaks before competition because they thought it would improve their performance. Protein supplements are sold at health food stores. This concern about protein is misplaced. Although protein is certainly an essential nutrient which plays many key roles in the way our bodies function, we do not need huge quantities of it. In reality, we need small amounts of protein. Only one calorie out of every ten we take in needs to come from protein. Athletes do not need much more protein than the general public. (5)

This is backed up in an AARP article by tennis athlete Martina Navratilova, who says: On days that I work out, I’ll have a little protein with some carbs after exercising. This combo speeds up the manufacture of new glycogen (the carbohydrate that is stored in muscle and supplies energy) and elevates key hormones in the body that are involved in muscle repair and growth. In addition, the snack amplifies the fuel I get from carbs. (6)

This fits in with what I have read from other top athletes like Brendan Brazier, two-time Canadian 50K ultramarathon champion. He thinks recovery time from working out is really the most critical factor for success as an athlete, rather than protein intake. He lives and thrives on a 100 percent plant-based diet.

Many vegetarian proteins are a combination of carbohydrates and protein.

Our bodies are all different, and our heritages, environments, and our blood types are all different. You need to find what works best for you.

There are several myths about protein. For instance, in the 1971 book Diet for a Small Planet, Frances Moore Lappé wrote that plants contained “incomplete proteins” with inadequate amounts of specific essential amino acids for them to meet the dietary needs of people. She emphasized the need to combine vegetable-based foods to obtain the complete amino acid complexes needed for optimum health when choosing not to consume animal protein.

However, according to Dr. John McDougall, Lappé did not understand the scientific research on human protein needs and the sufficiency of plant-based foods. Dr. McDougall says that plant combining “is unnecessary and implies that it is difficult to obtain ‘complete’ proteins from vegetables without detailed nutritional knowledge. Because of her complicated and incorrect ideas, people are frightened away from plant-based diets.” (7)

Thankfully such myths are slowly but surely being dismissed as untrue. The American Dietetic Association (ADA) revised its position statement on vegetarian diets, and now agrees that well-planned vegetarian diets are “a healthy, nutritionally adequate dietary practice for all stages of life.”

In addition to this, according to Mladen Golubic, MD, PhD of The Cleveland Heart Clinic: The more protein—especially animal protein—one eats, the higher the risk of different chronic diseases. (8)

For example, in a recent study of more than 6,000 people in the best nationally representative dietary survey in the United States, those between 50 and 65 years old who reported high protein intake had a 75 percent increase in dying from any cause, a four-fold increase in cancer death risk during the following 18 years, and a five-fold increase in death from diabetes. Those with moderate intake had increased cancer death risk three-fold when compared with the low protein intake group!

It is important to note that these associations were either abolished or attenuated if the proteins were plant derived.

The composition of amino acids, building blocks of protein, derived from animals is different than from plant proteins. What we need are amino acids, not the proteins themselves. As for the amount of protein we eat, it is not practical or very accurate to measure that on a daily basis. 0.8 g/kg is generous. According to the World Health Organization, 0.5 g/kg is adequate for good health.

Make sure you get enough calories from unprocessed whole foods of plant origin, and you will be getting enough protein.

You should eat a variety of legumes (beans of any type, shape, or color, including lentils, and peas), and 100 percent whole-grain products and vegetables. Do not worry about getting enough proteins. If you get enough calories from these whole foods, you are getting enough protein.

As for other nutrition, there is not a single nutrient (with the possible exception of Vitamin B12) that you cannot get from plants. In fact, meat or fish do not have any dietary fiber, and only minuscule amounts of beneficial compounds that are not technically essential nutrients. However, these essential nutrients are richly present in plants and seem quite beneficial for human health. (9)

Dr. Andrew Weil, a prominent expert in the health field, also addressed this subject: “You may have heard that vegetable sources of protein are incomplete and become complete only when correctly combined. Research has discredited that notion, so you don’t have to worry that you won’t get enough usable protein if you don’t put together some magical combination of foods at each meal.”

“Whether or not you’re a vegetarian, I recommend that you divide your daily calories as follows: 40–50 percent from carbohydrates (including vegetables, fruit, whole grains, starchy roots and tubers, and legumes), 30 percent from fat, and 20–30 percent from protein, which amounts to between 100 and 150 grams on a 2,000 calorie-a-day diet.” (10)

Dr. Weil, then, actually recommends more protein than Dr. Chittenden. Take into account that Dr. Chittenden was probably using “meat” protein as a good portion of his diet study. So, the type of protein may vary from person to person. In my opinion, you have to decide what type and amount of protein works best for you.

Dennis Gordon, MEd, RD, voices the same opinion as Dr. Weil and Dr. McDougall. In the article “Vegetable Proteins Can Stand Alone,” Gordon wrote:

Complementing proteins is not necessary with vegetable proteins. The myth that vegetable source proteins need to be complemented is similar to the myths that persist about sugar making one’s blood glucose go up faster than starch does. These myths have great staying power despite there being no evidence to support them and plenty to refute them.

Dietitian Dr. Reed Mangels, PhD, RD, also has spoken about protein combining: “It is very easy for a vegan diet to meet the recommendations for protein, as long as calorie intake is adequate. Strict protein combining is not necessary. It is more important to eat a varied diet throughout the day… The RDA recommends that we take in 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram that we weigh (or about 0.36 grams of protein per pound that we weigh). . .

This recommendation includes a generous safety factor for most people… To meet protein recommendations, the typical adult male vegan needs only 2.5 to 2.9 grams of protein per 100 calories and the typical adult female vegan needs only 2.1 to 2.4 grams of protein per 100 calories. These recommendations can be easily met from plant-based sources.” (11)

Protein myths have been around for almost a century, but beans, seeds, leafy greens, legumes, grains, eggs, and dairy are all sources of protein. In fact, leafy greens are among the best sources of protein. For example, 45 percent of spinach is protein.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are perfect foods because they are a combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrate.

They contain delicate polyunsaturated fatty acids that can become rancid shortly after being shelled, so store them in a tightly sealed container (preferably glass) in the refrigerator. Nuts that come from tropical climates can contain high levels of fungal mycotoxins, which result from improper storage.

Almost all nuts and seeds also contain certain compounds that include enzyme inhibitors and phytic acid, which can prevent the body from absorbing some nutrients. To help diminish the phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors, and to make them more digestible, place them in a glass or steel bowl and soak them for 12–18 hours in non-chlorinated water and a little bit of whole sea salt. If desired, you can dehydrate or roast them in the oven at a low temperature. Eat them within a few days. When buying nuts and seeds, look for products that are sprouted or have been soaked.

Pine nuts (pignoli) are nature’s only source of pinolenic acid, which helps diminish your appetite. They have the highest concentration of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that aids the liver in eliminating harmful triglycerides from our body, which helps protect our heart. Pine nuts are also packed with 3 mg of iron per one-ounce serving and are rich in Vitamin B1 and Vitamin B3, manganese, copper, magnesium, molybdenum, and zinc, as well as being a source of Vitamin B2, Vitamin E, and potassium.

There are more than 29 varieties of pine nuts. Most of the pine nuts in US grocery stores are from trees grown in China, Mexico, and Korea. All pine nuts are nutritious, but the most nutrient-dense are Mediterranean pine nuts, which come from the Stone Pine (Pinus pinea, or Umbrella Pine) native to Portugal, Spain, and Italy.

Mediterranean pine nuts are lower in calories, have a great ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 essential fatty acids, have a higher level of phytosterols, and have a greater protein content than other varieties of pine nut.

Pine nuts are wonderful to have as a snack or add to a meat substitute, protein drink, or smoothie.

Hemp seeds are actually nuts. They contain significant amounts of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, as well as protein. They also contain significant amounts of Vitamin E, which is important for the thyroid gland. Hemp seeds are seen as an excellent food source because of their great combination of high-quality oil, or good fat (44 percent), protein (33 percent), and fiber (12 percent).

Hemp protein contains all of the complex amino acid proteins, and is extremely similar to the type of protein in animal foods. It has a wonderful digestibility and appears to be free of the anti-nutrients found in soy. Hemp seeds deliver a good source of readily absorbable, nutrient-dense protein that can be readily utilized by the body. (12)

Almonds are actually seeds. They are a powerhouse of nutrients, including manganese, magnesium, copper, Vitamin B2, and phosphorus, and are a great source of protein and fiber. One quarter cup of almonds has 12 grams of protein. That is more than twice the amount of protein in one egg. However, almonds contain 1,800 more Omega 6 fatty acids than Omega 3 fatty acids. This can seriously throw off the balance of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids in the body. For that reason, I use unsweetened hemp or coconut milk these days instead of almond milk.

Walnuts are especially good for the vegetarian diet. They are high in protein; they are a very good source of manganese, copper, tryptophan, and Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids; and they have a fairly good ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids (four Omega 6s to one Omega 3), with only eight percent saturated fat.

Cashews are a very good source of copper, magnesium, tryptophan, and phosphorus. Copper is necessary to maintain healthy bones and connective tissues. Cashews have 117 Omega 6 fatty acids to one Omega 3, and have 12.5 percent saturated fat. I love cashews, but I try to combine them with other nuts and seeds when I eat them to help balance out the Omegas and saturated fats.

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein and fiber, as well as minerals, including zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and manganese. Pumpkin seeds have 117 Omega 6 fatty acids to one Omega 3 and have a saturated fat content of 14 percent. Interestingly, pumpkin seeds are terrific at helping the body get rid of parasites.

I am a licensed certified wildlife rehabilitator, and I use pumpkin seeds on a regular basis when feeding the wild animals I rehabilitate. I grind the seeds and immediately add them to the animals’ food, and it is amazing to me how many tapeworms and other types of parasites come out in their bowel movements. Because of this, I use pumpkin seeds frequently, in a freshly ground form, in my own foods.

Protein Supplements

Sometimes vegetarians feel they are just not getting enough food, protein, or sustenance. They probably need concentrated nutrients from protein and carbohydrates, along with some good fat. When the body is getting a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fat from nutrient-dense, whole food, that is full of live enzymes, the body can feel nutritionally satisfied.

Studies have shown that after an intense workout, it is helpful to replenish your glycogen by having some carbohydrates combined with some protein, which appears to support muscle. The fat tells the body how to utilize the protein and carbohydrates. When I use a meal replacement or protein powder, I add about a tablespoon of good fat to the mixture, usually coconut oil or flax seed oil, or a combination of both.

If you choose to use a protein supplement, I recommend using one that contains protein that is organic, vegan, gluten-free, raw, and whole-grain. I list a few really good certified organic protein supplements in the Resources section. Protein supplements made from sprouted seeds, nuts, whole grains, whole-grain rice, hemp seeds, legumes, peas, and beans are some of my favorites. When buying protein supplements, make sure they aren’t a mystery protein by reading the ingredient list very carefully. Anything that simply says “protein” could be ground leftovers from meat packing plants. Those leftovers can include hair, nails, hooves, and other animal parts.

Be careful which protein powders or supplements you buy. Consumer Reports tested 15 high-protein drinks and found that many contained various levels of toxic heavy metals. Here is an excerpt from the report:

“Our investigation, including tests at an outside laboratory of 15 protein drinks, a review of government documents, and interviews with health and fitness experts and consumers, found most people already get enough protein, and there are far better and cheaper ways to add more if it’s needed. Some protein drinks can even pose health risks, including exposure to potentially harmful heavy metals, if consumed frequently. All drinks in our tests had at least one sample containing one or more of the following contaminants: arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. Those metals can have toxic effects on several organs in the body.” (13)

Again, read the ingredients carefully and buy ones that contain only organic whole vegetarian food.

Marketing for these high-protein drinks is sharp, savvy, and targeted to bodybuilders, athletes, baby boomers, and pregnant women. The advertising can say that the drinks build muscle or help shed unwanted pounds. People have the idea that if they consume more protein, their bodies will build more muscle, but lifting weights and exercising are what builds muscle.

Whey

Whey protein, a naturally occurring substance derived from milk, is considered vegetarian. Whey protein is separated from the curds in milk during the cheese-making process. It is usually refined into a powder that is commonly added to protein powders or bodybuilder protein drinks. Protein powder can be mixed with beverages such as juice.

Since whey is derived from milk and has some lactose in it, people who cannot digest lactose can have allergic reactions such as sneezing, itching, and rashes after ingesting it.

Whey protein is in many products that are widely marketed to athletes, seniors, and teenagers for many reasons including meal replacement, weight loss, and body building.

Many people consume these whey drinks or supplements without being aware they are ingesting excessive amounts of whey protein and accumulating too much protein.

Excess protein damages the body. High amounts of protein, specifically whey protein “can cause some side effects such as increased bowel movements, nausea, thirst, bloating, cramps, reduced appetite, tiredness (fatigue), and headache.” (14)

The American Council on Exercise reported that large amounts of whey protein can be stored as a form of fat. Studies have shown that whey protein can also stress the liver and kidneys, because they break down the majority of protein.

According to a study in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, daily protein ingestion of less than 2.8 grams per kilogram of body weight does not harm renal function in athletes. The American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetic individuals consume only the recommended daily amount or less than that. Liver and kidney disease patients should ensure that their whey protein intake is closely monitored to avoid complications.

Excessive whey protein intake can result in kidney stones or calcium deposits in the kidney, which can be very harmful if left untreated.

The National Institutes of Health recommend a moderate protein diet. Be very cautious about using whey protein powders on a regular basis and monitor how much is being ingested, so you aren’t getting too much. Remember this is animal protein. “The more protein—especially animal protein—one eats, the higher the risk of different chronic diseases. …According to the World Health Organization, 0.5 g/kg is adequate for good health.” (15)

Soy

Soy protein is a complete protein but can be very hard to digest. The Chinese did not eat unfermented soybeans, because they contained high quantities of natural toxins or “anti-nutrients” and were high in phytic acid. This means ingesting unfermented soy can prevent the body from absorbing other nutrients like calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and particularly protein. In China, soy was not used as a food until fermentation techniques were discovered in the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC).

When soy is fermented—as in miso, tempeh, or soy sauce—the soy nutrients are more digestible and easier to absorb.

Soy has been linked to gastric distress and pancreatic problems, including cancer, and it can impair our body’s uptake of amino acids.[ii] It also contains goitrogens, which are known to suppress the functioning of the thyroid. (16)

Most soy on the market today is from genetically modified (GM) seed. 91 percent of soybeans planted in the United States are GM, and the rate is rapidly growing throughout the world, according to the Natural News newsletter. (17)

Dr. Gregory Damato points out that “more than 95 percent of GM soy (and 75 percent of other GM crops) is engineered to tolerate glyphosate herbicide, the most common formulation of which is Roundup.”[iii] Recent studies by French scientists on the Toxicity of Roundup and Glyphosate found this herbicide carcinogenic.(18)

They found it:

1. Causes cell cycle dysregulation, which is a hallmark of tumor cells and human cancers.

2. Inhibits DNA synthesis in certain parts of the cell cycle—the cells’ reproductive process which underlies the growth and development of all living organisms.

3. Impedes the hatchings of sea urchins. (Sea urchins were used because they constitute an appropriate model for the identification of undesirable cellular and molecular targets of pollutants.) The delay was found to be dose dependent on the concentration of Roundup. The surfactant polyoxyethylene amine (POEA), another major component of Roundup, was also found to be highly toxic to the embryos when tested alone, and could therefore be a contributing factor. (19)

These reasons are why I don’t eat soy if I can avoid it, or any other genetically modified food or non-organically grown food. I recommend reading more about glyphosate herbicide if you are eating non-certified organic foods.

Be aware that soy is added to tortillas, breads, fake meats, and many other foods, supposedly for the “health” benefit. In my opinion, it is really used as cheap filler.

Health and nutrition expert Dr. Joseph Mercola writes that the advertising industry has misled the public about the safety and health benefits of soy, as well as the widespread use of it in the Asian diet. He states: “A study of the history of soy use in Asia shows that the poor used it during times of extreme food shortage, and only when the soybeans were carefully prepared (e.g. by lengthy fermentation) to destroy the soy toxins.” (20) He goes on to say that, contrary to some reports in the West, it is not the usual practice in Asian countries to feed soy milk to infants. (21)

A billion-dollar industry advertises soy as the answer to many health issues. Soy is frequently touted as the answer to women’s menopause problems, heart disease, and weight problems, as well as a great protein source. Be aware of this when you read food labels that refer to soy’s health benefits, even those that display an FDA approval statement that soy can help lower the risk of heart disease. In 2000, two FDA employees, Daniel Doerge and Daniel Sheehan, were so worried about the danger of soy that they wrote a controversial letter to their employer, protesting the positive health claims for soy that the FDA was approving at the time. (22)

They wrote:

There is abundant evidence that some of the isoflavones found in soy, including genistein and equol, a metabolite of daidzen, demonstrate toxicity in estrogen sensitive tissues and in the thyroid. This is true for a number of species, including humans. Additionally, isoflavones are inhibitors of the thyroid peroxidase which makes T3 and T4. Inhibition can be expected to generate thyroid abnormalities, including goiter and autoimmune thyroiditis. There exists a significant body of animal data that demonstrates goitrogenic and even carcinogenic effects of soy products. Moreover, there are significant reports of goitrogenic effects from soy consumption in human infants. (23)

Think carefully about the effects that soy can have on the thyroid, our master gland which affects almost all aspects of our health, and estrogen. Many doctors and nutritionists are soy proponents. Be careful and research this yourself if you are concerned.

Soy is touted as solution to menopause hormone imbalances. This is one of the reasons why so many doctors and older women were happy to embrace it. Soy and soy-based products contain isoflavones or phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogens. Soy is not the only food that contains phytoestrogens. There are other less controversial and more digestible foods with phytoestrogens you can include in your diet.

For men, eating soy isoflavones can significantly reduce testicular function and lower luteinizing hormone (LH) production, which is what signals the testicles to work. A high soy intake, which potentially lowers the level of LH, increases the probability of estrogen dominance in men, contributing to hair loss, swollen and cancerous prostates, and insulin resistance. Dr. Doris Rapp, MD, a leading pediatric allergist, asserts that environmental and food estrogens are responsible for the worldwide reduction in male fertility. (24)

Soy consumption has been linked with cancer in adults, notably breast cancer, as I read in an article by Jim Rutz. He went on to say: “That’s why the governments of Israel, the UK, France, and New Zealand are already cracking down hard on soy. . .

In sad contrast, 60 percent of the refined foods in US supermarkets now contain soy. Worse, soy use may double in the next few years because (last I heard) the out-of-touch medicrats in the FDA hierarchy are considering allowing manufacturers of cereal, energy bars, fake milk, fake yogurt, etc., to claim that “soy prevents cancer.” It doesn’t. . .

P.S.: Fermented , organic soy sauce is fine. Unlike soy milk, it’s perfectly safe because it’s fermented, which changes its molecular structure. Miso, natto, and tempeh are also okay, but avoid tofu. (25)

Soy can create allergic reactions. In 1986, Dr. Stuart Berger, MD, placed soy among the top seven allergens, one of the “sinister seven.”

Finally, soy protein isolate, a byproduct of soybean oil processing that is found in a huge number of vegan foods, is something to avoid completely. The processing of soy protein isolate is done mostly in aluminum tanks that leach high levels of aluminum into the product. Then MSG, flavorings, preservatives, sweeteners, and synthetic chemicals are frequently added to help get rid of the “beany” taste and add more “meaty” flavor. In animal experiments, the test animals fed soy isolate developed enlarged organs, particularly the thyroid and the pancreas.

After the soybeans, which are mostly GM varieties, are crushed to extract the oil, the leftover soy “chunks” (which still contain fiber, water, some fat, and other carbohydrates) then undergo another extraction process that involves hexane—a neurotoxin that is also a substantial component in gasoline. The next step involves soaking these chunks in a chemical mixture (which commonly contains ammonia and hydrochloric acid) to help concentrate protein levels and achieve a sponge-like texture. Finally, the mixture is then spray-dried. (26)

A regular, standard soybean contains 40 percent protein, while soy protein isolate is usually about 95 percent protein.

Soy protein isolate can only be made in factories. Healthy, whole foods should be possible to make in a kitchen. You can grind your own almond flour at home from almonds. You can make your own seitan (wheat meat) at home. You can make your own rice milk or hemp milk at home with a blender and some whole-food ingredients. The only way to make soy protein isolate is by using extremely flammable and hazardous chemicals, like hexane, and extreme temperatures that you could not possibly obtain in a kitchen setting.

Hexane is not used in the production of organic soy protein isolate. For a list of which protein bars and soy burgers are made using hexane-extracted soy protein isolates and which aren’t, go to: www.cornucopia.org/hexane-guides/hexane_guide_bars.html.

As I researched soy, I came to seriously reconsider its use. When I first became a vegetarian, I used soy for many things. I used to feel that soy milk, soy beans, and other soy products were foods I should use. I learn something new every day. No one knows everything, so be open to new information.

I found some soy vegetarian alternative meats worked really well as transition foods from a meat-based diet. Some of them didn’t taste very good and were a huge waste of money, but a few were pretty good. I always looked for organic ones, but those were rare. I slowly weaned myself off them. There are many more choices today that are organic and taste much better than what was available in 1988.

As I have learned more about soy, I always try to avoid it if possible. I do, however, use organic fermented soy sauce. I also use organic miso and tempeh occasionally. There are alternative organic misos now that are made with brown rice, garbanzo beans, and barley, and they taste terrific. I buy these instead of the soy variety.

In conclusion, if you are going to buy soy, buy certified organic soy because it won’t be from genetically modified seeds. Buy sprouted and/or fermented soy for a more digestible and less harmful soy protein, and avoid soy protein isolates.

Beans

Beans—including black beans, garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas), pinto beans, and kidney beans—are a great source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Beans are relatively inexpensive and easy to store in a dry, cool place for a fairly long time.

The fiber in beans has been shown to help lower cholesterol by binding with bile acids, which are used in making cholesterol. Fiber isn’t absorbed into the body. It passes out of the body, taking the bile with it. Beans also help prevent blood sugar levels from rising too quickly after a meal, making beans a good food choice for people with diabetes or hypoglycemia. Combining beans with whole-grain rice gives you all the essential amino acids.

A little-known and beneficial attribute of beans is that they contain the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which can detoxify sulfites. Sulfites are a common preservative used in many foods today. Many people are sensitive to sulfites, resulting in weight gain, headaches, and rapid heartbeat. Eating one cup of black beans can give you 172 percent of the daily value of the trace mineral molybdenum, which is the key component of sulfite oxidase.

The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry researched beans and found they are as rich in anthocyanin—an antioxidant compound—as cranberries, oranges, and grapes. In fact, black beans had approximately 10 times the amount found in oranges. The darker the bean, the higher the antioxidant properties were. Gram for gram, black beans had the highest levels of antioxidants. They descended in order of black, red, brown, yellow, and lastly white.

Vegetarian Protein Sources:

Almonds (¼ c.) 12 grams
Amaranth (3½ oz.) 16 grams
Baked beans (8 oz.) 11.5 grams
Broccoli (3½ oz.) 3.1 grams
Brown rice (7 oz.) 4.4 grams
Buckwheat (3½ oz.) 12 grams
Bulgur (1 c. cooked) 6 grams
Cashews (¼ c.) 5 grams
Cow’s milk (½ pint) 9.2 grams
Egg (boiled) 7.5 grams
Garbanzo beans (chickpeas) (7 oz.) 16 grams
Hard cheese (1 oz.) 6.8 grams
Hemp seeds (1 oz.) 11 grams
Lentils (4½ oz.) 9.1 grams
Mediterranean pine nuts (1 oz.) 10 grams
Muesli (2½ oz.) 7.7 grams
Nori seaweed (3½ oz. dried) 35 grams
Nutritional yeast (3½ oz.) 50 grams
Oatmeal (1 c.) 6 grams
Peanuts (1 oz.) 7.3 grams
Pine nuts (1 oz.) 6.8 grams
Porridge (6 oz.) 2.4 grams
Potatoes (7 oz.) 2.8 grams
Pumpkin seeds (raw) (1 oz.) 7 grams
Sesame seeds (3½ oz.) 19 grams
Spinach (fresh) (1 c.) 1 gram
Spirulina (3½ oz.) 68 grams
Sunflower seeds (3½ oz.) 24 grams
Walnuts (¼ c.) 25 grams
Whole-grain bread ( 2 slices) 7 grams

Sources:
1 McDougall, John. (2003, December). “A Brief History of Protein: Passion, Social Bigotry, Rats, and Enlightenment.” The McDougall Newsletter, 2(12). Retrieved from http://www.nealhendrickson.com/mcdougall/031200pup rotein.htm
2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Protein.” Retrieved fromhttp://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/everyone/basics/protein.html 3 D’Adamo, Peter J., & Whitney, Catherine. (1999). “Blood Type O, Food, Beverage and Supplement List.” Eat Right 4 Your Type. Berkley Books.
4 Ibid.
5 Mangels, Reed. “Protein in the Vegan Diet.” Vegetarian Resource Group. Retrieved from http://www.vrg.org/nutrition/protein.php
6 Navratilova, Martina. (2009, May 22). “Eat the Right Kinds of Protein: Don’t Overdo Protein; Do it Right. Here’s How.” AARP.
7 McDougall, John. (2003, December). “A Brief History of Protein, Passion, Social Bigotry, Rats, and Enlightenment.” The McDougall Newsletter, 2(12). Retrieved from http://www.nealhendrickson.com/mcdougall/031200puprotein.htm
8 Golubic, Mladen. (2014, April 4). “Benefits of Plant-based Diets.” Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/transcripts/1602_be nefits-of-plant-based-diets
9 Weil, Andrew. (2005, March 21). “Vegetarians: Pondering Protein?” Retrieved from
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/id/QAA142995 85 Ibid.
10 Gordon, Dennis. (1996, March). “Vegetable Proteins Can Stand Alone.” Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 96(3).
11 Mangels, Reed. “Protein in the Vegan Diet.” Vegetarian Resource Group. Retrieved from http://www.vrg.org/nutrition/protein.php
12 Leson, Gero, & Pless, Petra. (1991). Hemp Foods and Oils for Health. Sebastopol, CA: Hemptech. Gero Leson, DEnv, is an environmental scientist and consultant with extensive experience in food and fiber uses of hemp and other renewable resources.
13 Consumer Reports. “Alert: Protein Drinks: You Don’t Need the Extra Protein or the Heavy Metals Our Tests Found.” Retrieved from http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine- archive/2010/july/food/protein- drinks/overview/index.htm
14 WebMD. “Whey Protein.” Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/vitamins- supplements/ingredientmono-833 WHEY%20PROTEIN.aspx?activeIngredientId=833&activ eIngredientName=WHEY%20PROTEIN
15 Golubic, Mladen. (2014, April 4). “Benefits of Plant-based Diets.” Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/transcripts/1602_be nefits-of-plant-based-diets
16 Damato, Gregory. (2009, May 27). “GM-Soy: Destroy the Earth and Humans for Profit.” Natural News. Retrieved from http://www.naturalnews.com/026334_soy_Roundup_G MO.html#ixzz1RzIZAWwh
17 Fallon, Sally, & Enig, Mary G. (2000, April–May). “Newest Research on Why You Should Avoid Soy.” Nexus (7)3. Retrieved from http://www.eregimens.com/therapies/Diet/Soy/Newest ResearchonwhyYouShouldAvoidSoy.htm
18 Damato, Gregory. (2009, May 27). “GM-Soy: Destroy the Earth and Humans for Profit” Natural News. Retrieved from http://www.naturalnews.com/026334_soy_research_Rou ndup.html
19 Ibid.
20 Mercola, Joseph. (2012, June 9). “New Evidence Against These Cancer-causing Foods – and the Massive Cover-up Effort.” Retrieved from http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/06/0 9/monsanto-roundup-found-to-be-carcinogenic.aspx
21 Bellé, R., et. al. (May 9, 2012). Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B: Critical Reviews, 15(4), 233- 237. Retrieved from http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10937404.2 012.672149
22 Mercola, Joseph. (2009, January 9). “Learn the Truth About Soy. Just How Much Soy Do Asians Eat?” Retrieved from http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2000/ 01/09/truth-about-soy.aspx
23 Ibid. 100 Sheegan, Daniel M., & Doerge, Daniel R. (1999, February 18).Letter to Dockets Management Branch (HFA-305). The letter was posted on ABCnews.com as “Scientists Protest Soy Approval.”
24 Bellatti, Andy. “You Ask, I Answer: Soy Protein Isolate.” Medpedia. (Belatti is a commenter on the original article by Kelsey Lepp.) Retrieved from http://smallbites.andybellatti.com/you-ask-i-answer- soy-protein-isolate/
25 Rutz, Jim. (2006, December 12). “Soy is Making Kids ‘Gay’.” WND Commentary. Retrieved from http://www.wnd.com/2006/12/39353/
26 Cousens, Gabriel. (2008). There Is a Cure for Diabetes. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books.
27. Golubic, Mladen. (2014, April 4). “Benefits of Plant-based Diets.” Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/transcripts/1602_benefits-of-plant-based-diets
28. Damato, Gregory. (2009, May 27). “GM-Soy: Destroy the Earth and Humans for Profit.” Natural News. Retrieved from http://www.naturalnews.com/026334_soy_Roundup_GMO.html#ixzz1RzIZAWwh
29. Ibid.

copyright@nancyaddison2024

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison
Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Protein appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

I buy “little” wooden skewers or long wooden toothpicks to slide the chunks of fruit onto, so they are easier to dip and serve.

You can adjust this for the number of people by having about 3 to 5 fruits for each person.  If you have 12 people, then make at least 12, but 24 or 36 might be better depending on the meal and the occasion.

You can use this recipe to dip pineapple, fresh strawberries, or oranges. You simply cut the fruits into bite sized pieces so they aren’t too messy and are easier to enjoy.

I recommend purchasing dark chocolate, preferably organic for this recipe, because it’s healthier.

Ingredients

½ cup bittersweet chocolate chips

36 pieces of bite-sized fruit (what I use is: strawberries, peeled orange slices, banana cut into 2 -3-inch chunks, peeled and sliced kiwi, pineapple chunks, mango slices, and other fruits you like)

1 1/2 tsp. pure organic, cold-pressed coconut oil

¼ tsp. mineral-rich salt

¼ tsp. vanilla extract (optional)

2 tablespoons finely chopped toasted pistachios (add more to this amount according to the amount of fruit you are dipping.)

Directions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper.

2. Place the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler over hot, but not boiling, water and let it melt. Stir, as it warms up, until creamy.

3. Stir in the mineral-rich salt, coconut oil and the vanilla (if you are using it) and blend well.

   4. For the chunks of fruit, like pineapple, put them on a toothpick or skewer.

   5. Dip half of each piece of fruit into the melted chocolate.6. Allow the excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.

   7. Then place the dipped fruit on the prepared baking sheet. Once they are on the baking sheet, sprinkle the pistachio pieces over the chocolate for a lovely presentation.

8. Refrigerate the baking sheet until the chocolate is set. This may take about 30 minutes.

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer:
Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

1. Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Chocolate-Dipped Fruits – Gluten-free Recipe appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Baked cauliflower is always delicious, but when you add tahini sauce to it, the health benefits soar. Tahini is a sesame butter/paste that is popular in Middle Eastern cuisine.

“Studies show sesamol, a natural chemical found in sesame seeds and sesame oil, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging benefits. Other studies say it also has strong anti-cancer effects. Sesame seeds have more phytosterols than other nuts and seeds.“

Tahini is made of three ingredients: hulled sesame seeds, sesame seed oil, and oftentimes salt. Hulled sesame seeds are normally toasted, and then ground to create a smooth, creamy seed butter with a pourable consistency.

You can make tahini yourself from organic sprouted sesame seeds or toasted sesame seeds. Simply grind the sprouted sesame seeds in a food processor with a little organic extra virgin olive oil, and a tiny bit of mineral-rich salt, until it is smooth and creamy. Sprouting or toasting the sesame seeds makes them more digestible and removes the enzyme inhibitors.

My daughter Amanda taught me the following tahini sauce recipe over Thanksgiving. It is a marvelous way to make cauliflower or leafy greens delectable!

You can serve this sauce over any variety of vegetables or greens that you sauté or steam. It can be served over cooked brown rice or quinoa to make a main dish. Raw vegetables are also good with this sauce. This sauce is gluten-free, vegan, healthy, savory, simple, rich in protein, and delicious!

The tahini sauce with sautéed or steamed vegetables or greens makes a fantastic dish to serve at special group meals, because it accommodates people with special dining requirements.

Recipe for Roasted Cauliflower With Tahini Sauce

Ingredients

1 head organic cauliflower

organic coconut oil for cooking

mineral-rich salt to taste

1/2 or 1 cup organic raisins

1 cup tahini sauce (recipe below)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Cut up cauliflower into bite-size florets.

3. Coat the cauliflower with coconut oil and place in a baking dish. Sprinkle lightly with salt.

4. Bake the cauliflower for about 20 minutes or until it is soft enough to eat.

5. While the cauliflower is baking, make the tahini sauce and add the raisins to the mixture.

6. When the cauliflower is ready, remove it from the heat, coat the cauliflower generously with the tahini sauce and raisins.

7. Place this coated cauliflower with tahini sauce back in the baking dish and put it back in the oven for about 3 minutes, until the raisins are soft.

8. Serve warm.

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer:

Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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It is National Mushroom Month!

Many of you may be cooking outdoors this month. This is a great vegan/vegetarian version to serve plant-based diners. I used to take a portobello mushroom with me whenever I went to cookouts and I wanted to have something plant-based to eat with everyone. I have made this for many non-vegetarian Texans with great success, much to their surprise!

This was one of Larry Hagman’s (also known as J. R. Ewing, in the television show “Dallas”) favorite meals. I would make this for him when I was his chef & nutritionist, when he had throat cancer and diabetes. I had him on a very strict healthy diet, and I would serve this to him when he was craving something “meaty,” like a hamburger.

Mushrooms are nutrient-dense and have less calories than meat. They have also been found to prevent cancer.

According to a study conducted by The University of Western Australia in Perth, eating mushrooms daily may reduce breast cancer risk by nearly two thirds.

The study, conducted in China, looked at more than 2000 women, half of whom had suffered from breast cancer. Researchers found that the women who ate a third of an ounce of fresh mushrooms every day had lowered their risk of developing a tumor by 64 percent.(1)

Dried mushrooms didn’t have quite the same benefit, but still reduced the risk “by around half.”(2)

It is certainly great to have the reinforcement of knowledge that mushrooms are such a healthy food.

Portobello mushrooms contain a variety of B-complex vitamins (including vitamin B6, thiamine, and folate), are an excellent source of riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and niacin, as well as a very good source of thiamine. Protein (complex amino acids), selenium, lysine, zinc, copper , manganese, and iron are some additional benefits of eating this mushroom.

Portobello mushrooms are a great alternative to meat, because of their meaty texture and flavor.

The quantities in this recipe are enough for one person.

Ingredients:

1 large portobello mushroom

3 T. organic coconut liquid amino sauce or teriyaki sauce

1 whole, sprouted-grain hamburger bun or bread (I love the Ezekiel 4:9® Sprouted Whole Grain Sesame Burger Buns)

¼ cup sliced goat cheese (from goats that are grass-fed and humanely-raised, or you can use a vegan goat cheese)

Directions:

1. Brush off the mushroom and remove the stem. (Save the stem to cut up and use in a stir-fry or pasta dish later.)

2. Soak the mushroom in your choice of sauce for at least five minutes (although 30 minutes is even better).

3. Grill, or bake at 350°F, just until thoroughly warm, making sure it is moist with the amino sauce or teriyaki sauce.

4. Warm or toast bun.

5. Place the goat cheese (if using) on top of mushroom and leave in oven just a couple of minutes to soften the cheese.

6. Remove mushroom from grill or oven and place on bun.

7. Serve immediately.

Variations:

1. For a vegan version, you can use sliced avocado instead of goat cheese. It’s a really delicious addition to this sandwich.

2. You can add a few leaves of romaine lettuce, or tomato slices, or onion, but I found it is simply delicious just with the goat cheese.

Source: 1,2, & 3. “Eating mushrooms daily ‘may cut breast cancer risk by two thirds’.” (16 March, 2009). The Telegraph. Click here for the link.

copyright@nancyaddison2015

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Ingredients

2 nori sheets
1 cup Nut Pâté (see recipe below)
1–2 avocados, seeded, peeled, and sliced
1 carrot, julienned
1⁄2 cup sprouts (sunflower or broccoli)
1⁄2 cup coconut aminos or organic soy sauce for dipping (unpasteurized, organic)
1⁄4 cup wasabi (optional as a condiment to serve with it)
1⁄4 cup pickled ginger (optional as a condiment to serve with it)

Directions

1. Lay out a nori sheet (shiny side down) on a flat surface or a bamboo sushi mat that can roll up.
2. Spread half of the Nut Pâté on the nori sheet in a thick layer, leaving about a half-inch border around the outside edge.
3. Lay half of the avocado slices lengthwise over Nut Pâté.
4. Lay half of the carrots lengthwise in a thick layer on the avocado.
5. Lay half of the sprouts on the carrots and avocado in an even layer.
6. Take the end of the nori sheet closest to you and start rolling it away from you.
7. When you get to the end, seal the edge with a little water to make it stick.
8. Slice the roll into about 1-inch-thick portions. Repeat with the second nori sheet and the rest of the Nut Pâté, avocado, carrots, and sprouts.
9. Dip in soy sauce and enjoy with wasabi and/or pickled ginger.

Notes:
1. The nori will cut easier if you use a very sharp knife.
2.Avocado is one of the two main ingredients in the recipe, so use a half or a whole avocado for each roll.
3. You can substitute the nut pate with a nut butter of choice.

Nut Pâté

This is an easy, rich, and savory snack or appetizer. I use it as a filling for my Nori Rolls with Nut Pâté (the recipe is in my “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian” book). You could also serve this with crackers or with chopped vegetables as a dip.

Start this recipe a day ahead of time, so you can soak the nuts in water to remove the phytic acid, or buy already sprouted nuts.

Ingredients

2 cups sprouted pecans, (soaked 12–18 hours in pure, non-chlorinated water, drained and dried in a dehydrator or in an oven on low heat below 110 degrees, never use a microwave)
1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped
2 large stalks celery, chopped
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. unrefined sea salt

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor.
2. Add a little water if necessary.

Variations:

1. Use walnuts in place of the pecans.
2. Use lime juice instead of lemon juice.

copyright@nancyaddison2022

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com

Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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If you are wondering if a vegetarian or vegan-based diet is right for you, you might consider the findings in a large study.

According to Mladen Golubic, MD, PhD, with the Cleveland Clinic, a national (US) dietary survey was completed with over 6,000 people between the ages of 50 and 65 years old. It was found that those who reported a high protein intake (for example: eggs, dairy, fowl, pork, beef, lamb, and more) increased their risk of death by 75 percent.

The study showed a quadruple increase in death due to cancer during the following 18 years, and a quintuple increase in death from diabetes. The participants with a moderate intake of protein had a triple increase in their risk of death due to cancer, when compared with the low protein intake group.

“It is important to note that these associations of death by disease were completely eradicated if the ingested proteins were “plant-derived”. The composition of complex amino acids (which are the building blocks of protein) that are derived from animals act very differently than the amino acids from plant protein. What we need are the amino acids, not the proteins themselves.”

I’ve personally been a vegetarian for over 35 years. When I became a vegetarian, my own health improved dramatically.

Over the years, one of the things that has always confused people is the difference between a vegan and a vegetarian. People who eat chicken and fish are technically not vegetarians, but many call themselves vegetarian anyway. That’s why there is frequently confusion about this point. So, I am going to expand on the differences between all of these types of diets.

VEGETARIAN

The mainstream vegetarian avoids all animal products that require slaughtering an animal. If they STILL eat dairy and eggs, they are called an ovo-lacto vegetarian. Milk products, such as cheeses that don’t have rennet in them (rennet is made from the stomach lining of an animal),and non-fertile eggs are allowed. Vegetarian cheeses are made with vegetable rennet, vegetable enzymes, or figs. If they do not eat eggs, but allow milk and milk products in their diet, they are called a lacto-vegetarian.

PESCETARIAN

The people who eat fish, but no other type of meat, are pescetarian. However, many people who are pescetarian still refer to their diet as vegetarianism. This is very common and this group can also be called pesco-vegetarian. Some might say it’s a branch of vegetarianism.

(With the amount of mercury and plastic in the fish today, you may wish to listen to my recent radio show with Dr. McGraw concerning fish & mercury.)

PESCE POLLO VEGETARIAN

Then there is the person who eats chicken and fish, but avoids red meat. They can be called a pesco pollo vegetarian. This type of diet is not truly vegetarian.

VEGAN

A vegan avoids all products that have an animal origin. A vegan may even avoid honey, because it is made by bees. Many vegans will even go so far as to avoid using products such as wool, leather, silk, fur, wool, gelatin, lanolin, rennet, whey, casein, beeswax, shellac, carmine, bone, or fat for their bodies or lives. They prefer to avoid using products that can be made by exploiting a living creature in any way.

FLEXITARIAN

There is presently a new eating plan sensation called the “flexitarian” way of eating. This new way of eating is for people who plan to eat less creature foods, but who don’t want to cut them out completely.

Because of this phenomenon, the food labs have been developing new types of GMO foods using beef or chicken mixed with various “plant-based” ingredients. Even though I believe that whenever people eat more wisely and humanely it is a good thing, and I am grateful for their effort, I do not agree with this type of mixed GMO food, because all of my research studies strongly urge the avoidance of ALL GMO foods. I find this new food disturbing, and I will keep you updated on any health-related research that I find regarding this new “food.”

PLANT-BASED EATING

I definitely support everyone’s efforts to eat healthier and more humanely. That is one reason why I wrote the book, “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian,” which is in it’s 2nd edition (winner of 8 book awards & now available in audio). I want to help people on their journey to better health, along with creating a gentler more humane world. Even if you don’t want to be 100% plant-based, consuming more fresh, organic plant foods can benefit most people’s health immensely. I believe that most people do not get enough fresh plant food nutrition and fiber, which I believe is extremely important for optimum overall health and well-being.

My goal is to enlighten people on how important the quality of all foods are, including vegetarian and vegan. A lot of people believe that simply giving up animal protein is healthy, but the truth is that you can also eat a very unhealthy vegetarian or vegan diet. Sometimes a vegetarian or vegan diet could include soy, fake meats, GMO foods, conventionally grown foods, processed foods, artificial sweeteners and dyes, monosodium glutamate (MSG), unhealthy fats, fast foods, microwaved foods, and refined foods and I don’t think any of those foods are healthy. The key to good health is to find the best REAL foods that come directly from nature with the least amount of manipulation or processing by man.

IN CONCLUSION

Live in the moment, be present, listen to your heart, and try to do the best and right thing for you at all times. Our life and our health are just that: personal choices.

For many of us in transition, with new food choices or life in general, it takes baby steps. Eating more fresh organic fruits and vegetables will make your health improve. Try eating one plant-based meal a day. I would definitely recommend looking for the most humanely-raised, organic, fresh, quality food at all times, for all your meals.

Becoming a more plant-based eater, whether completely or partially vegan or vegetarian, is a journey. Simply start the journey, and see where it takes you.

copyright@nancyaddison2023

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:

 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Nancy’s website is: http://www.organichealthylife.com

Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post What Is Plant-Based Eating And Why It Matters appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Ingredients

1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes

1 tbsp plus 1tsp pure coconut oil

1½ tsp Ceylon Cinnamon

1 tsp unrefined mineral-rich salt

1 medium red onion

1 medium zucchini

2 garlic cloves, pressed

1 can crushed, fire-roasted tomatoes

1 cup sprouted and cooked chickpeas

1½ cup vegetable broth

2 cups baby spinach leaves

2 cups sprouted and cooked quinoa or rice

1 tbsp cilantro chopped (optional topping)

1 Tablespoon chopped cashews (Optional topping)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Combine the chopped squash, 1/2 tsp. salt, cinnamon, and 1 tsp. coconut oil in a medium bowl.

2. Place the squash in a glass baking dish. Bake it until tender, and it starts to brown. It should be about 20 minutes.

3. While it’s cooking, chop the red onion and slice the zucchini into ¼” half-moons.

4. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp coconut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until it is softened and starts to look translucent.

5. Add the minced garlic to the onion mixture and cook a couple of minutes.

6. Stir in the tomatoes, chickpeas, zucchini , 1/2 tsp. of salt, and broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.

7. Stir in the squash. Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the spinach and stir until wilted.

8. Serve over cooked quinoa or rice. Optionally, you can top with some chopped cilantro and chopped cashews.

Note:

To sprout quinoa, rice, or chickpeas, soak quinoa, rice, or chickpeas overnight in pure water in a bowl. Then cook them according to directions.

Optional:

Add some butter to this recipe at the very end for the extra buttery richness.

Have a loving, peaceful, healthy, and fun November!

By Nancy Addison CHC, AADP

copyright@nancyaddison2020

The post Baked Butternut Squash Recipe – Gluten Free appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Many of you may be cooking outdoors this month. This is a great vegan/vegetarian version to serve plant-based diners. I used to take a portobello mushroom with me whenever I went to cookouts and I wanted to have something plant-based to eat with everyone. I have made this for many non-vegetarian Texans with great success, much to their surprise!

This was one of Larry Hagman’s (also known as J. R. Ewing, in the television show “Dallas”) favorite meals. I would make this for him when I was his chef & nutritionist, when he had throat cancer and diabetes. I had him on a very strict healthy diet, and I would serve this to him when he was craving something “meaty,” like a hamburger.

Mushrooms are nutrient-dense and have fewer calories than meat. They have also been found to prevent cancer.

According to a study conducted by The University of Western Australia in Perth, eating mushrooms daily may reduce breast cancer risk by nearly two-thirds.

The study, conducted in China, looked at more than 2000 women, half of whom had suffered from breast cancer. Researchers found that the women who ate a third of an ounce of fresh mushrooms every day had lowered their risk of developing a tumor by 64 percent. (1)

Dried mushrooms didn’t have quite the same benefit, but still reduced the risk “by around half.”(2)

It is certainly great to have the reinforcement of knowledge that mushrooms are such a healthy food.

Portobello mushrooms contain a variety of B-complex vitamins (including vitamin B6, thiamine, and folate), are an excellent source of riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. Protein (complex amino acids), selenium, lysine, zinc, copper, manganese, and iron are some additional benefits of eating this mushroom.

Portobello mushrooms are a great alternative to meat, because of their meaty texture and flavor.

The quantities in this recipe are enough for one person.

Ingredients:

1 large portobello mushroom

3 T. organic coconut liquid amino sauce or teriyaki sauce

1 whole, sprouted-grain hamburger bun or bread (I love the Alvarado Bakery hamburger buns)

¼ cup sliced goat cheese (from goats that are grass-fed and humanely raised, or you can use a vegan goat cheese)

Directions:

1. Brush off the mushroom and remove the stem. (Save the stem to cut up and use in a stir-fry or pasta dish later.)

2. Soak the mushroom in your choice of sauce for at least five minutes (although 30 minutes is even better).

3. Grill, or bake at 350°F, just until thoroughly warm, making sure it is moist with the amino sauce or teriyaki sauce.

4. Warm or toast bun.

5. Place the goat cheese (if using) on top of mushroom and leave in oven for just a couple of minutes to soften the cheese.

6. Remove mushroom from grill or oven and place on bun.

7. Serve immediately.

Variations:

1. For a vegan version, you can use sliced avocado instead of goat cheese. It’s a really delicious addition to this sandwich.

2. You can add a few leaves of romaine lettuce, or tomato slices, or onion, but I found it is simply delicious just with the goat cheese.

Source: 1,2, & 3. “Eating mushrooms daily ‘may cut breast cancer risk by two thirds’.” (16 March, 2009). The Telegraph. Click here for the link.

copyright@nancyaddison2015

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:

 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Nancy’s website is: http://www.organichealthylife.com

Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Most of us have some amount of heavy metals in our body,
which can cause all kinds of health problems. Detoxing frequently is something I do and I believe that it contributes to our overall health and well-being.

Ingredients:

2 cups wild blueberries

4 pitted dates

1 banana

1 tsp. barley grass juice powder

1 tsp. spirulina

1 cup fresh cilantro

1 small handful of baby spinach

1 cup coconut water or coconut milk

1 tsp. maca root powder

1 tsp. cold-pressed hemp seed oil

1 tsp. coconut oil

1/4 tsp. mineral-rich, pink salt (Himalayan is good)

Optional ingredients:

1/2 dropper of fulvic acid

1-2 T. sprouted seed or nut butter

Directions:

Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Add more coconut water if it’s too thick.

Serve immediately.

copyright@nancyaddison2014

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:

 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Nancy’s website is: http://www.organichealthylife.com

Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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This is an easy recipe that takes about 10 min. to make. I use only organic ingredients. This recipe yields about twenty-five 1-inch cookie dough balls.

Ingredients:

1 cup old-fashioned oats

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

1/2 cup ground flax seed

1/2 cup peanut butter or sun butter

1/3 cup raw, unrefined honey

1 tablespoon chia or hemp seeds

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Dye-free sprinkles, for rolling

1 tsp. mineral-rich pink salt (Himalayan or Real are good choices)

Directions

1. Place the oats, chocolate chips, coconut flakes, flaxseed, peanut butter, honey, chia seeds, pink salt, and vanilla in a food processor and pulse until thoroughly combined or you can have the children combine it in a bowl, which is really fun for them.

2. Scoop the dough with a small ice cream scoop then use your hands to roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the sprinkles. Serve or refrigerate in an airtight container.

copyright@nancyaddison2022

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:

 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Nancy’s website is: http://www.organichealthylife.com

Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post No-Bake Cookie Balls Recipe – Gluten-free, Raw, & Vegetarian appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Thoughtful gifts, fragrant flowers, and dinner dates are all great, and they mean a lot… but true LOVE is what really matters.

The best gift we can ever give someone is being truly present for them, which means listening with our hearts as well as our ears.
This means connecting with peaceful, deep, love-filled presence of compassion and understanding. When we are truly present, we are truly able to listen with our hearts.

So today (and every day), give the gift of being truly present for those you love, in addition to whatever else you have planned.

There is so much love to share, experience and celebrate!
In the spirit of Love,
I am sharing one of my favorite recipes with you.

The post Happy Love Day! Raspberry Muffin Recipe – Gluten-free appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

One of my favorite things to do at Christmas time

is to make a warm cozy drink.

Two of my favorite winter holiday drinks are Vegan Eggnog and Cinnamon Chai Tea Latte.
Here are the recipes!

Vegan Eggnog

This is an easy recipe to make and it is vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients:

1½ c. unsweetened vanilla coconut or hemp milk

1 organic banana

Pinch of nutmeg

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 tsp. raw date sugar or maple syrup (or raw honey – which is not vegan.)

Directions:

1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until creamy.

2. Sprinkle a tiny bit of nutmeg on the top of the filled cups for a nice presentation.

Note: This recipe is easy to double.

Serves one to two.

Cinnamon Chai Tea Latte

This is a holiday drink made with Ceylon Cinnamon, which boosts your immune system, aids in digestion, circulation, and helps regulate blood sugar. If you have a froth maker, that is great, if not just use a whisk or fork to mix it with and make it lighter.

gluten-free/vegetarian

Ingredients:

2 cups unsweetened vanilla coconut or hemp milk (milk of choice)

1 tsp. Blue Lotus Rooibos Chai (Blue Lotus Chai – made with organic spices. It’s an instant tea that doesn’t require steeping and it’s gluten-free!)

2 tsp. date sugar or honey (to taste)

A few dashes of Ceylon Cinnamon

½ tsp. vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Put the tea and the sweetener of choice in your cup.

2. Warm your coconut or hemp milk on the stove making it warm to touch, but not too hot.

3. When it’s just warm, add about 1/2 a cup of the milk to your cup. (If you have a frother, use a frother to mix it well or whisk it to blend.)

4. Add the remainder of your milk and sprinkle a touch of cinnamon on top!

5. Serve warm.

Note:

Cinnamon is a spice, and it’s obtained from the inner bark of a few tree species. Research shows that cinnamon can help lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon contains antioxidants that create healthier arteries and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Cinnamon can also benefit us with increased alertness and energized senses. Even a teaspoon a day helps tame blood sugar levels.

Ceylon cinnamon is the best cinnamon to use. Cassia, Saigon, and Chinese cinnamon contain five percent coumarin, which is problematic for the liver. Ceylon cinnamon has only .0004 percent coumarin.

It has been a bit of a challenging couple of years for us all.
Let’s raise our vibration and keep our immune system strong.
Please join me in putting on a smile, wherever you are
or whatever circumstances you may be in.

A smile can create health and well-being in your body.
Let’s allow our inner light to shine.

Put a smile on your face,
and let that light shine in your heart.

Holidays can be tough, so I challenge you,
my dearest friends to push through this…
put on some joyful music, smile, dance,
find something positive to think about
(no matter what is around you),
volunteer somewhere,
and be your beautiful, amazing,
incredible, unique, divine self!

Here are a few songs I have been enjoying in 432 HZ,
which is the healthiest tone to help us be in our best health!
If you want to know more about 432 HZ
and why I recommend it, click here to read about it.

The Christmas Song (432 hz) Nat King Cole

Brenda Lee – Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree (432Hz)

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas (432 hz)
Michael Bublé

I wish you a healthy, joyful, loving holiday season!!

Know that I love you, I am grateful for you,
and I have you in my heart now and always.

All my blessings and best wishes,

Love, Nancy

The post Merry Christmas And Happy Holiday Wishes appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Pear Bread is a delicious fruit-filled bread recipe. It is naturally sweet and full of flavor with fresh pears, cinnamon, vanilla, and nuts. This recipe makes a savory, special breakfast dish for holiday occasions or anytime.

I started making this recipe, because my sweet neighbor kept bringing me lots of pears off her pear trees. They are the harder pear variety that are used mainly in baking recipes.

I use gluten-free flour in the recipe. The tapioca flour helps the flour bind better. You can use gluten-containing flour with this recipe, but you won’t need the tapioca flour if you do use gluten-containing flour.

This bread is wonderful alone, or it also makes an excellent bread to crumble in my baked pear crumble recipe (recipe follows below).

Ingredients

3 large Eggs, room temperature

3/4 cup pure Coconut Oil

1-1/2 cups Raw Sugar (date or coconut is good)

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

3 cups Coconut or whole-grain Oat Flour

2 T. Tapioca Flour

2 teaspoons Baking Powder

2 teaspoons ground Ceylon Cinnamon

1 teaspoon Baking Soda

1-½  teaspoons Himalayan or Real Salt

4 cups of Baking Pears, peeled, cored and chopped

1 tablespoon Lemon or Lime Juice

1/2 cup chopped Walnuts or Pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease and flour an 8×4 inch loaf pan. You can also line the bottom of the pan with some greased parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl whisk together eggs, oil, sugar and vanilla extract until well-blended.
3. In a separate bowl sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda and salt.
4. Add flour mixture to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Toss chopped pears with lemon juice.
6. Fold the chopped pears and nuts in by hand until just combined and pour into the pan.
7. Bake the bread for fifty to sixty minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool.

Note:
1. Baking pears are usually harder and less sweet than many of the softer pear varieties. Choose the hardest fresh pear variety for this recipe.

2. You can also use canned pears if that is all you have available.
3. Apples and Asian pears can be substituted in this recipe.

Baked Pear Crumble Recipe

Ingredients

4 or 5 large baking Pears (cored, seeded, and sliced in half)

1 stick Butter

1 T. Ceylon Cinnamon

1 T. Nutmeg Powder

1 Pear Bread Recipe baked and ready to use in this recipe.

Baking dishes – 13 x 9 or 14 x 10 will both work well.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Place the large pears in the baking dish and sprinkle with the nutmeg and cinnamon.
3. Slice the butter in small pieces.
4. Place half of the small pieces of butter on the pears before baking.
5. Bake the pears about 20 minutes or until soft.
6. Remove from heat.
7. Crumble the cooked pear bread over the baked pears and dot with last half of the butter pieces.
8. Then warm the bread crumble with baked pears in the oven until warm enough to serve.
9. Serve for breakfast alone, or you can serve this dish topped with whipping cream or ice cream as a dessert.

copyright@nancyaddison2021

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

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Wade’s website with 10% off to Nancy’s viewers:
www.bioptimizers.com/healthylifestyle

Nancy Addison is a certified health counselor, nutritionist, chef, as well as a radio show host, who teaches people about living a healthier, happier life through nutrition and lifestyle. She has appeared on NBC, Fox, CBS, and in documentaries ( “Eating You Alive”). You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life, or find easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books (which are half cookbook).

The information from Nancy Addison and Organic Healthy Lifestyle LLC and
Wade Lightheart is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this video, email, article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP and Wade Lightheart. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. I make no claims about healing anything.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty:
The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison and Wade Lightheart offer information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

Nancy is well-versed in the art of health and nutrition, having studied with world-renowned Doctors and nutritionists as well as having received certification from various Institutes and Universities including, but not limited to:

Certified Health Counselor by Columbia University Teachers College

Graduate and Certified Health Counselor of The Institute of Integrative Nutrition

Board Certified Health Practitioner with The American Association of Drugless Practitioners

The post Wade Lightheart & Nancy Addison Discuss Digestion, The Gut And The Brain Connection appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

I’m from Texas, and on New Year’s Day, we ALWAYS serve black-eyed peas with our meal, because they are supposed to bring us good fortune!

This tradition began in the southern states after the Civil War. The northern troops, especially those who were serving under General Sherman, would destroy all of the foods, crops, and livestock that they couldn’t carry with them. The crops of “field peas” and corn, which were considered by them to be only good for animal food, were left undestroyed. There were many people in the south who survived the war thanks to the peas and corn that were left, thus giving them a “good luck” reputation. The peas are meant to represent coins.

Mustard greens or collards are usually served with the peas to represent paper money. In the south, corn bread and rice are generally accompaniments to this meal. This tradition has spread throughout the country. The common commercial pea we see today is the California black-eyed pea. It is pale with a prominent black spot. This highly nutritious legume was promoted by George Washington Carver. It was valuable as a crop, because it added nitrogen to the soil. The black-eyed pea is also high in calcium, folate and vitamin A, as well as being a great source of fiber.

The blossoms produce large amounts of nectar, so they are grown in many places where honey is produced. The large amount of pollinators that consume this nectar make the use of pesticides much more strictly regulated. I always suggest buying organically grown foods, when possible. Cooking legumes is really very easy. Many people don’t like to eat legumes, because they think they are hard to digest, and that they produce gas. However, there are a few tricks to cooking that help with the digestibility of the legumes.

Soaking the peas in purified water to sprout them before cooking them helps break down the enzymes and remove the antinutrients (phytic acid) that are present in peas, and also in beans, seeds, legumes, and nuts.

I also add some kombu seaweed and ground-up caraway seeds to my peas as I soak and cook them. The seaweed and caraway seeds help the process to further break down the anti-nutrient enzymes, so the legumes are even more easily digestible. You can add the caraway seeds to the soaking water, and then also keep the seeds when you drain off the water with the peas, and add them to the cooking water.

Since it is the start of a new year, and we definitely want to have the best health possible, here are some of the extra health benefits of adding caraway seeds to your pea, lentil, and bean recipes. Caraway seeds are high in: nutrition, antioxidants, and fiber. They have been found to help with weight loss, digestion, fighting cancer cells, and stabilizing blood sugar.

Always sort, rinse, and drain your black-eyed peas before soaking. The peas will double in volume when soaked and cooked, so measure out one cup of peas to soak, for every additional cup you need and adjust the recipe accordingly. (I measure out one cup of peas to soak for each guest.)

I frequently make a larger amount than I require. In this way, I can freeze the extra (in little glass oven-to-freezer dishes),
to easily enjoy in future meals.

Recipe of the Month

Basic Black-Eyed Peas

Serves 4

Ingredients:
2 c. black-eyed peas
1 small piece kombu seaweed (optional)
1 T. extra virgin, pure coconut oil
½ c. red onion, chopped
2 T. jalapeño, chopped (keep the seeds if you want it hotter, discard the seeds if you don’t want it spicy hot)
1 tsp. unrefined sea salt
½ tsp. ground black pepper
½ tsp ground caraway seeds (optional)

Directions:
1. Soak black-eyed peas, caraway seeds, and kombu seaweed for 12–18 hours or more, in purified water. (You are removing antinutrients (phytic acid) and making the peas more digestible.)
2. Discard soaking water. (You can discard the seaweed now.)
3. Put black-eyed peas and caraway seeds in a large pot, and add enough water to cover peas plus an additional inch. Bring to a boil.
4. Take off the stove and drain water. Be careful not to burn yourself. (This step of changing out the water again is optional, but it does make the beans even more digestible.)
5. Add enough new water to the pot to cover the peas and seeds by about an inch. Add the coconut oil, chopped onion, chopped jalapeños, mineral-rich sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. (Adjust to your taste, the salt and pepper.)
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 30–45 minutes, or until the peas are soft.
7. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes:
1. If you don’t have time to soak the black-eyed peas and caraway seeds overnight, you will have to cook them a little longer and they may not be as digestible, because the antinutrients (phytic acid) have not been removed. “Antinutrients are natural or synthetic compounds that interfere with the absorption of nutrients.” (1) Sprout peas and seeds to remove the antinutrients.

You can sprout them by soaking them in non-chlorinated water for 12–18 hours. Larger peas or beans need longer soaking time to sprout and remove the antinutrients (phytic acid). Pour off the water in which they were soaked.

2. Kombu seaweed can usually be found in the Asian foods area of Healthy Grocery Stores and other food stores. Buy certified organic seaweed. Seaweed contributes many nutrients to any recipe, and also helps break down the enzyme inhibiting in beans, peas, and seeds, so they are more easily digested. (2)

You can discard the kombu seaweed after soaking or cooking. I add kombu seaweed to almost all of my soups and beans when I am cooking them. There are a variety of seaweeds to choose from. (I order mine from New Zealand.) They all have a variety of nutrients in them. Flavors vary. Experiment!

Variations:

1. For a little sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon of raw honey or maple syrup after the pot of beans is removed from the heat.
2. I am from Texas and I love jalapeños. Jalapeños are full of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Jalapeño seeds can be very hot, so discard the seeds if you don’t want it spicy hot, but keep them if you like your food hot and spicy.

You can use whatever hot or mild pepper is available to you, that you like. You can also use pickled or candied peppers (jalapeños) for a different taste version of this dish. If you want more nutrition from the jalapeños, then add them after you remove the pot from the heat, instead of when cooking, so the enzymes remain alive.

Enjoy a healthy, nutritious New Year’s Day meal with southern, traditional Basic Black-eyed Peas!!

Happy New Year Everyone And Bon Appetit!

Sources:

1. “Antinutrients are natural or synthetic compounds that interfere with the absorption of nutrients. A. Protease inhibitors (e.g., Bowman–Birk trypsin inhibitor in soybeans (Birk, 1985), which inhibit trypsin, pepsin, and other proteases in the gut, preventing digestion and absorption of proteins and amino acids. B. Phytic acid in the hulls of nuts, seeds, and grains, which has a strong binding affinity for calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, and zinc, preventing their absorption.” https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/antinutrients

2. Inactivation Methods of Trypsin Inhibitor in Legumes: A Review – https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1750-3841.13985

copyright@nancyaddison2020

You can find this and other healthy recipes, in my “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian” Book/Cookbook 2nd edition.

Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

Nancy’s social media links:
Youtube – Nancy Addison https://www.youtube.com/user/nancyaddison/videos

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The information from Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison, Organic Healthy Lifestyle is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this video, article, book, podcast, website, email…. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This video, article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

Nancy’s website: https://www.organichealthylife.com

For more information about Nancy Addison and her work please visit her website at www.organichealthylifestyle.com

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You can serve this chili with a sprouted brown rice or even put it into organic
taco shells with some lettuce for healthy plant-based tacos.

Why would you want to sprout your beans or rice?  The reason is that, by soaking them and sprouting them, you are removing phytic acid and making the beans more digestible.
To sprout beans (or rice, quinoa, peas, lentils, nuts, or anything else with enzyme inhibitors and phytic acid) soak the beans 12–16 hours or more, in purified water.  Then pour off the water, and then cook the beans as you normally would.

I recommend buying organic, non-GMO if possible.

Makes 4 servings.

Ingredients:

3 ½ cups sprouted and cooked kidney beans

2 T. organic, pure coconut oil

1 fresh jalapeno, cored, seeded, minced (the seeds are very hot, so only add them if you wish your chili to be very hot!)

2 red onions, chopped

2 large cloves of garlic, minced

2 tsp. red wine vinegar (organic rice vinegar or coconut vinegar are also good types)

1 ¼ cups vegetable broth

1 ¼ cup crushed, tomatoes (chopped)

2 T. Chili powder

1/8 tsp. chipotle chili powder (optional, if you like it hot)

½ tsp. unrefined, mineral-rich salt

¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

¼ tsp. Ceylon Cinnamon

5 T. fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions:

1. Heat the coconut oil in a large pot, big enough to hold about 5 or 6 cups easily.

2. Sauté over medium heat: the chopped onion, jalapeño, and vinegar. Stir about 5 minutes until the onion gets soft.

3. Add the garlic (minced) and sauté another minute.

4. Stir in the broth, tomatoes, chili powders, salt, pepper and bring to a full boil and cook for 3 minutes.

5. Stir in the cooked, sprouted beans and bring to a full boil again. Then reduce the heat to medium and simmer about 5 minutes.

6. Remove from heat and stir in half the cilantro, and save the remaining cilantro to use as a garnish.

7. Serve warm in bowls, with some grated cheese (you can use plant-based cheese) and a sprinkle of cilantro top.

Variations:

1. Serve with whole, sprouted, cooked and warm rice.

2. Add sliced mushrooms to the mixture. Add the sliced mushrooms with the beans for more nutrition.

copyright@nancyaddison2017

Nancy’s 7 award-winning books are on Amazon, and are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com

Nancy’s social media links:

Twitter – Nancygaddison https://twitter.com/nancygaddison

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Nancy was deactivated and censored from Linked In, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube for speaking the truth about the Fake Pandemic. Now she is on these Non-Censorship social media platforms that allows the truth to be shared.

Follow Nancy on Brighteon Social: https://www.brighteon.com/channels/roseaddison/home

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The information from Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison, Organic Healthy Lifestyle is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

The post Texas Vegetarian Chili Recipe – Plant-based & Gluten-free appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Between work, school, events, family, kids, and everything concerning life, it may seem impossible to eat healthy.

Here are my top tips for maintaining your healthy eating and health, while on the go with an busy schedule.

1. Start your day by eating a good nutritious breakfast. Your body needs fuel to function. It’s like a car that requires gas or electricity to function. Your body needs to eat. When we eat early, it revs up our metabolism.

Make a quick smoothie (I have some smoothie recipes in my books), or prepare some toast with avocado, or have some plain, organic yogurt and fruit or granola that you keep available in your kitchen. Eating a healthy breakfast is vitally important for maintaining optimum energy for your whole day.

I can still remember my daughter saying, “I am not leaving for school without having my smoothie!” She knew she felt better, could think more effectively, and could thrive until lunchtime (which was late in the day), if she had her power smoothie that I prepared for my family every morning. Invest in the time to do this, because it is well worth the effort. With healthy ingredients, this alone can transform your life.

2. Another one of my top recommendations is that if you know you shouldn’t eat something, then don’t buy it. Don’t have it in the house or office. I see people with candy and cookies sitting on their desks or in their offices. Sugar or artificial sugar (which is worse), acts like a drug and it will destroy your immune system.

One teaspoon of sugar can shut down your immune system for up to 5 hours. It is also addictive and it takes more sugar each time to satisfy that craving, because you build up a tolerance. The mind is very suggestible, so keep it out of sight and therefore out of your thoughts. I’ve found that it’s much easier to eat in a healthy way if you only have healthy foods from which to choose.

3. I really don’t believe in snacking, because it makes your body dependent on a constant intake of food. I think this leads to obesity and diabetes, because it never allows the body time to rest or the ability to use its storage of fat that it has put away for extra energy. Try to eat only at meal time.

What we think of as a meal doesn’t necessarily have to be what the advertisers or movies would have us believe. We really need just a small amount of nutrient-dense food, not a huge amount of food with empty calories and no nutrition.

Serving sizes have grown over the years and they really aren’t healthy. My son or daughter would say, “Mom doesn’t eat hardly anything.” But in reality I eat very well. I eat sitting down, slowly chewing my nutritious food that feeds my body on a deep cellular level. In this way, I feel satisfied and my body gets what it requires to feel energized and healthy.

One thing that works for me is to pick one day in advance to prepare my foods for the week ahead. I buy the ingredients the day before, and then have a day of fun, music, and the creation of my healthy dishes for the week. I find this day of food preparation to be very enjoyable, relaxing, and therapeutic.

If you have family, do it together and share the fun and healthy food preparation! Children learn by watching, and they are also more inclined to eat what they help prepare, so get everyone involved! My children now prepare amazingly healthy meals for work, school, and travel, because they learned how to do this when they were growing up.

What I know is that nutrient-dense foods give you more energy, make you feel fuller and more satisfied than nutrient-deficient foods. So, go for the nutrition that feeds the body on a deep cellular level.

The meals I eat are small but nutritious, and they are eaten slowly and chewed well, without liquids that would water down my digestive enzymes. Remember to have your liquids at least 2 hours after a meal or 30 minutes before a meal, but NEVER with a meal. You need to digest your food fully and completely. If you water down your digestive enzymes and aren’t chewing your food until it’s liquid before swallowing it, then your body won’t be able to digest your food effectively. Digestion-related issues are a major cause of many health problems.

Some healthy meal suggestions:

Combine some slices of apples, pears, peaches, or other fruits or vegetables, with some sprouted seed or nut butter of your choice to have as a light meal.

Cut up some vegetables to use with hummus. This makes a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal. I cut up cucumber, red bell pepper, zucchini, squash, mushrooms, and tomatoes, and put them in a good glass container to take with me for meals. Be sure to put the hummus in a separate container, so the vegetables stay fresher.

My daughter was telling me about her “jar salads” that she is making. You can make salads in large jars in advance, and set them in the refrigerator, to have ready for utilizing another day. Put the salad dressing on the bottom of the jar, then stack your salad ingredients on top of it. I would place things like small whole tomatoes, olives, or radishes, or something not too absorbable on the first layer over the dressing. This way the salad dressing doesn’t make your salad soggy before you are ready to enjoy it. When you are ready for your salad, simply shake it up in the jar and eat it out of the jar, or you can pour it out into a bowl or plate to combine and enjoy.

My son makes his salads for work in transportable containers. He places his dressing in a separate small container to add to his salad later. Use your favorite veggies or greens.

For any of your meals, (hummus, nut butters, smoothies, salads), you can even add some Indoor Organic Gardens Of Poughkeepsie’s broccoli powder to it for extra nutrition. (Put my name “Nancy”  in the discount code box for a discount.)

Mix the broccoli powder in the food (hummus, butter, potatoes, salad, smoothie, avocado, etc.) for the magnificent sulforaphane nutrition. New studies show that if you add broccoli to your diet a few times a week, it can reduce the chance of cancer by up to 40%. Remember it’s all about the quality of your nutritious food.

The Indoor Organic Gardens Of Poughkeepsie, makes this powder from organic, freshly grown sprouts which are even more nutrient-dense than full-grown broccoli. They can overnight them to you also!

4. Beware of buying things that are pre-chopped. Many of my clients go for these, but when I show them that they are usually not organic, and are conventionally grown with GMO seeds or glyphosate (an antibiotic used on foods as a drying agent and/or herbicide chemical to kill weeds, but really kills all life), which is one of the main reasons they are having health challenges, they decide to try a different approach.

Most of these pre-cut or pre-prepared meals and foods are NOT organic, have canola oil in them (or other unhealthy ingredients), and are very high priced and tough on the budget.

Another thing to be aware of is that when foods are cut, they start to lose their nutrients as soon as they are exposed to oxygen. So, chop them yourself and have control over how long they are cut and if they are organic.

What I do is take them whole and just cut them up as I eat them. I find it easy, and it also slows me down from eating my food too fast. I sit and cut a bite at a time and eat it. Take a plate and silverware with you. Eat with dignity. You deserve it.

5. Make time for yourself and your health. As I mentioned earlier, choose a day to make a large pot of soup, beans, rice, quinoa, stew, lasagna, or pizza to have for meals in the coming week. Make it an event that is fun, with music, candlelight, and family or friends. Put it on your calendar like it is a business appointment with the Doctor, only it is a health appointment with yourself that is going to give you a higher quality of life, more energy, less sick days, and more vitality!

Decide on two to four main dishes you will have for the coming week and cook them on a weekend day or a day you have off from work.

You can also get a recipe prepared and use a crock-pot to cook it during the day while you are at work, and have a meal ready when you get home. It can be a marvelous dinner and enough left over to save for another day.

Once you do that, put it into a variety of single-serving bowls you can put in the refrigerator or freezer, and take them out as needed for meals at work, home, or school.

6. One thing I recommend for everyone, is to make an investment in a set of glass “Oven to Freezer” single or double serving containers with snug-fitting lids. This will make your life so easy! Make large amounts of foods, then store them in these containers for use later in stir-fries, side dishes, meals, etc. If you come home late and are tired, take one of these out of the freezer, remove the lid, and put it in the oven to heat it up while you take a shower, walk the dog, or are going through your mail.
7. I understand that not everyone has access to a work refrigerator, but many folks do. I recommend utilizing the office fridge and freezer to optimize your diet and keep your healthy foods available for your meals.
8. Just remember to NEVER use a microwave to heat ANYTHING! Microwaves destroy the molecular structure of your food and destroy the nutrients. Don’t even heat water in them. Please, I care about you. Use a little hot plate to put your warm drink on so you don’t have to reheat it. Try using a little warming oven or toaster oven, or don’t heat it, and eat it at room temperature.

I’ve worked with movie stars, models, CEO’s, doctors, lawyers, etc. Most of them were sick quite often, or had “allergy” problems, autoimmune, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc. Once they decided to make their health a priority, and actually started taking control of the quality of their food and what went into their body, their health transformed.

Usually within a week or two, they had improved quality of sleep, higher amounts of energy, sharper mental focus, and better blood tests, and they became believers.

What goes into our body turns into our cells, our tissues, and our blood. How could our food and drink not affect our overall health and well-being.

So, take control of your life!

I have many wonderful easy recipes in my six cookbooks. I also have a lot of recipes in my blog, and on my Youtube videos. Preparing healthy food is easier than you think.

Oftentimes when I do a pantry make-over for a health counseling client, I find out what a person likes to eat, and then we go together on a grocery store shopping trip. We replace their favorite foods with better, more nutritious versions that support their health and well-being.

Let’s turn those tired sick days into energetic healthy days!

You can do this!

It is a choice.

It can be easy, delicious, and fun!

If you would like to ask a question, please email me at nancy.g.addison@gmail.com.

I will pick one question each month to answer.

Please forward this newsletter to friends, family members or colleagues who might be interested and inspired by it, or share it with your social media! Then they will be getting these great tips and yummy recipes!

If you like this newsletter, you may like my books,

which are also now in audio!

To view my books, go to this Universal author link: Author.to/nancyaddison

copyright@nancyaddison2019

You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life .com, or find easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books (which are half cookbook).

Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

Nancy’s social media links:

Twitter – Nancygaddison https://twitter.com/nancygaddison

Linked In – Nancy Addison https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyaddison/

Facebook – Nancy – organic healthy life https://www.facebook.com/authornancyaddison/

Instagram – Nancy- organic Healthy Life https://www.instagram.com/nancy.organichealthylife/

I Heart Radio Show Podcasts Organic Healthy Lifestyle https://www.iheart.com/show/209-Organic-Healthy-Lifestyle/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/nancyaddison/

The information from Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison, Organic Healthy Lifestyle is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

Nancy’s website: https://www.organichealthylife.com

For more information about Nancy Addison and her work please visit her website at www.organichealthylifestyle.com

The post How To Eat Healthy With A Busy Schedule appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Storing it properly is important. We go to the store and buy delicious-looking food. But then we get home and end up storing it improperly, or we get busy and forget about it. Then we find our refrigerator having the aroma of over-ripe or rotting fruits and vegetables. One way we can spend less AND eat healthier is by storing our fresh food properly.

Many times we go to the store and see all of the beautiful fresh fruits and vegetables in season and on sale, and we overbuy. So, first, try to only buy what you truly feel you are going to eat in the next few days. Don’t try to buy produce to last for a week. It may not last that long. Some root vegetables can last a month if stored properly, but fresher, more fragile fruits and vegetables will only last about 2-5 days.

If you do buy too much, you can think about making a pie, or doing some canning, or freezing some of your more fragile fruits and vegetables before they spoil. Always store your food in its complete wholeness.

According to food scientist Barry Swanson at Washington State University, if you pull fruits and vegetables apart, you have broken the cells, and microorganisms will immediately begin to grow. Avoid breaking the skin and leave the stem intact.

He also says you should never place fruits and vegetables in airtight bags. That actually will speed up the decay. Be mindful that mold will proliferate quickly in airtight bags and can spoil the whole group of fruits or vegetables. Toss out any spoiled produce immediately, or put it into your compost bin.

Next, make sure you are storing the various types of fruits and vegetables with the right partners. Some give off high levels of ethylene gas (a ripening agent), which makes them and everything around them ripens or decay quickly. You want to keep these types of foods separate from each other.

Put things like kale and spinach in the same bin, and peaches and apples in another. If you put fruit with greens, it will cause the greens to rot or turn yellow in a few days. Greens are very sensitive to the ethylene gas. I have a little product called an E.G.G. (Ethylene Gas Guardian, which is shaped like an egg), and it absorbs the ethylene. I just put it in my bin with the fruits and/or greens.

Of course, if you need something to ripen faster, then you can use this knowledge to your advantage. You can put the one you need to ripen with a fruit that gives off the highest level of ethylene gas.

I also use produce bags by Bio-Fresh and Ever-Fresh. They will absorb ethylene gas and help your produce stay fresher longer. Keep root vegetables (including all kinds of potatoes) in a cool, dark, dry place. They can last up to a month if kept properly. Never store potatoes in the refrigerator, because they will develop a much higher sugar content.

Here is a list of fruits and vegetables, showing the best way to store them. These are high ethylene producers, and you can refrigerate them: apples, apricots, avocados, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherimoyas, cranberries, figs, green onions, guavas, grapes, honeydew, kiwifruit, mangoes, nectarines, papayas, passion fruit, peaches, pears, persimmons, plums, prunes, quince, and tomatoes.

The banana is a high releaser and should be stored in a cool dark place outside of the refrigerator.

The following fruits and vegetables are very sensitive to ethylene gas: asparagus, bananas (unripe), blackberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, chard, cucumbers, eggplant, endive, garlic, green beans, kale, leafy greens, leeks, lettuce, okra, onions, parsley, peas, peppers, raspberries, spinach, squash, strawberries, watercress, and watermelon. Keep them separate from the high ethylene gas-producing foods.

Mushrooms should be stored in a dry paper bag or breathable container and put in a cool place. I’ve been told to gently brush them off under water to clean them before preparing them for consumption.

Try to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables that have been ripened on the vine or on the tree. Tree or vine-ripened foods contain salvestrols, which are compounds that have natural anti-cancer properties. (1)

In fact, the word salvestrol comes from the Latin word “save.” So, growing your own food or buying from a local farmer is one way of getting food that is vine or tree-ripened. Food that is picked green and then ripened on the way to market does not contain these salvestrols.

Organic food is best because it is more nutrient-dense. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides can destroy nutrients in the soil, like sulfur, chromium, minerals, and probiotics, which are vital for our health.

“The Organic Center study found that organic foods were more nutritionally dense in 61% of the cases” and they “found conventional foods to contain higher nitrates, which are widely considered a potential health hazard.” (2)

Farmers’ markets are one of the oldest forms of direct marketing by small farmers. The fresh, organic produce is local, in season, less expensive, fresher, and it’s fun to meet your local farmers. Find a local farmer’s market near you with Local Harvest. Click here for Local Harvest link.

With all the fresh fruits and vegetables enticing us from their bins at the farmer’s market or grocery store, now we can make those delicious meals with our properly stored produce!

Bon Appétit!

Source:

1. Johnson, Dr. Ben. Qtd. in Bollinger, Ty. (2014). The quest for the cures… continues. (Film transcript). TTAC Publishing.
2. Steury, Tim. (Winter, 2009). “Is organic more nutritious?” Washington State Magazine.

copyright@nancyaddison2020

Nancy Addison is a certified health counselor, nutritionist, chef, as well as a radio show host, who teaches people about living a healthier, happier life through nutrition and lifestyle. She has appeared on NBC, Fox, CBS, and in documentaries ( “Eating You Alive”).

You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life, or find easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books (which are half cookbook).

Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

Nancy’s social media links:

Twitter – Nancygaddison – https://twitter.com/nancygaddison

Linked In – Nancy Addison https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyaddison/

Facebook – Nancy – organic healthy life

https://www.facebook.com/authornancyaddison/

You Tube Channel – Nancy Addison

https://www.youtube.com/user/nancyaddison

Instagram – Nancy- organic Healthy Life

https://www.instagram.com/nancy.organichealthylife/

I Heart Radio Show Podcasts

Organic Healthy Lifestyle

https://www.iheart.com/show/209-Organic-Healthy-Lifestyle/

Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/nancyaddison/

The information from Nancy Addison and Organic Healthy Lifestyle LLC is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this email, article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. I make no claims about healing anything.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

Nancy’s website: https://www.organichealthylife.com

The post Choosing Quality Fresh Produce And Proper Storage For Better Budgeting appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Nancy’s website:http://www.organichealthylife.com

Nancy Addison is a certified health counselor, nutritionist, chef, as well as a radio show host, who teaches people about living a healthier, happier life through nutrition and lifestyle. She has appeared on NBC, Fox, CBS, and in documentaries ( “Eating You Alive”).

You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life, or find easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books (which are half cookbook).

Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

Nancy’s social media links:

Twitter – Nancygaddison – https://twitter.com/nancygaddison

Linked In – Nancy Addison https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyaddison/

Facebook – Nancy – organic healthy life

https://www.facebook.com/authornancyaddison/

You Tube Channel – Nancy Addison

https://www.youtube.com/user/nancyaddison

Instagram – Nancy- organic Healthy Life

https://www.instagram.com/nancy.organichealthylife/

I Heart Radio Show Podcasts

Organic Healthy Lifestyle

https://www.iheart.com/show/209-Organic-Healthy-Lifestyle/

Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/nancyaddison/

The information from Nancy Addison, Organic Healthy Lifestyle, Organic Healthy Life, and guests is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Disclaimer: This interview may contain frank discussion of controversial topics and/or discuss words or language that are considered vulgar or offensive by some viewers.

Nancy Addison/ Organic Healthy Lifestyle/Life disclaims any control over, relationship with, or endorsement of views expressed by the speakers or writers invited during interviews. Audiences may research topics for themselves and come to their own conclusions.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this email, article, book, podcast, website, email, video,  etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. I make no claims about healing anything.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, podcasts, videos, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

Nancy’s website: https://www.organichealthylife.com

The post Vegan Protein And Quality Food appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Nancy Addison is a certified health counselor, nutritionist, chef, as well as a radio show host, who teaches people about living a healthier, happier life through nutrition and lifestyle. She has appeared on NBC, Fox, CBS, and in documentaries ( “Eating You Alive”).

You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life, or find easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books (which are half cookbook).

Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

Nancy’s social media links:

Twitter – Nancygaddison – https://twitter.com/nancygaddison

Linked In – Nancy Addison https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyaddison/

Facebook – Nancy – organic healthy life

https://www.facebook.com/authornancyaddison/

You Tube Channel – Nancy Addison

https://www.youtube.com/user/nancyaddison

Instagram – Nancy- organic Healthy Life

https://www.instagram.com/nancy.organichealthylife/

I Heart Radio Show Podcasts

Organic Healthy Lifestyle

https://www.iheart.com/show/209-Organic-Healthy-Lifestyle/

Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/nancyaddison/

The information from Nancy Addison, Organic Healthy Lifestyle, Organic Healthy Life, and guests is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Disclaimer: This interview may contain frank discussion of controversial topics and/or discuss words or language that are considered vulgar or offensive by some viewers.

Nancy Addison/ Organic Healthy Lifestyle/Life disclaims any control over, relationship with, or endorsement of views expressed by the speakers or writers invited during interviews. Audiences may research topics for themselves and come to their own conclusions.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this email, article, book, podcast, website, email, video,  etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. I make no claims about healing anything.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, podcasts, videos, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

Nancy’s website: https://www.organichealthylife.com

The post Diets, Hormones Eating Disorders, Vegetarian Diets, and Health appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Nancy Addison is a certified health counselor, nutritionist, chef, as well as a radio show host, who teaches people about living a healthier, happier life through nutrition and lifestyle. She has appeared on NBC, Fox, CBS, and in documentaries ( “Eating You Alive”).

You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life, or find easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books (which are half cookbook).

Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

Nancy’s social media links:

Twitter – Nancygaddison – https://twitter.com/nancygaddison

Linked In – Nancy Addison https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyaddison/

Facebook – Nancy – organic healthy life

https://www.facebook.com/authornancyaddison/

You Tube Channel – Nancy Addison

https://www.youtube.com/user/nancyaddison

Instagram – Nancy- organic Healthy Life

https://www.instagram.com/nancy.organichealthylife/

I Heart Radio Show Podcasts

Organic Healthy Lifestyle

https://www.iheart.com/show/209-Organic-Healthy-Lifestyle/

Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/nancyaddison/

The information from Nancy Addison, Organic Healthy Lifestyle, Organic Healthy Life, and guests is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Disclaimer: This interview may contain frank discussion of controversial topics and/or discuss words or language that are considered vulgar or offensive by some viewers.

Nancy Addison/ Organic Healthy Lifestyle/Life disclaims any control over, relationship with, or endorsement of views expressed by the speakers or writers invited during interviews. Audiences may research topics for themselves and come to their own conclusions.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this email, article, book, podcast, website, email, video,  etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. I make no claims about healing anything.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, podcasts, videos, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

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The bright orange color of the carrots is the beta-carotene, an antioxidant, that gets converted into Vitamin A when we ingest it. Carrots are packed with vital nutrients and health benefits.

Raisins are a good source of carbohydrates for energy. Raisins are also rich in B vitamins, iron, and potassium. This might seem surprising, but compounds found in raisins fight bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities and gum disease.

Ingredients:
1 bag carrots, unpeeled, grated
1–2 c. raisins
¼ c. mayonnaise (Primal Kitchen is one brand I recommend)

Directions: 



Mix all ingredients together and enjoy!

Variations:

1. Substitute ¼ cup orange juice mixed with 2 tablespoons raw, organic, extra virgin, pure coconut oil for the mayonnaise.
2. Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the salad.
3. Substitute chopped dates for the raisins.

I hope you love this recipe!

Please like this post and make a comment

and share this with your loved ones.

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Having these lasagnas on hand makes everything about entertaining so easy. I have had many of my meat-eating friends tell me they absolutely love this lasagna, so it has passed the “non-vegetarian dinner guest test” at my home. And this is in Texas, where that test can be a tough one!

Bake this lasagna in a 13 x 9 x 2 dish.

Serve this with salad and crusty, whole-grain bread.

Ingredients

8 oz. whole, sprouted-grain lasagna noodles
2 eggs (preferably organic, humanely raised, and pasture raised)
1 16-oz. container ricotta cheese (preferably from cows or goats that are grass fed and humanely raised)
2 c. mozzarella cheese (preferably from cows or goats that are grass fed and humanely raised), grated
1 c. Parmesan cheese (preferably from cows or goats that are grass fed and humanely raised), grated
½ c. parsley (fresh), chopped
1 c. red onion, chopped
1 T. extra virgin, pure coconut oil
1 c. mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 c. broccoli, chopped
½ c. baby spinach, chopped
3 c. tomato sauce
1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
dash of cayenne pepper
pinch of garlic salt
pinch of onion powder
1/8 tsp. basil (dried)
1/8 tsp. thyme (dried)
1/8 tsp. parsley (dried)
1/8 tsp. savory (dried)
1/8 tsp. sage (dried)
1 tsp. miso
1/4 c. non-chlorinated water

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Combine cayenne pepper, garlic salt, onion powder, basil, thyme, dried parsley, savory, and sage and set aside.
3. Dissolve miso in the ¼ c. of water and set aside.
4. Boil a pot of water and cook lasagna noodles until al dente. (This means they are soft, but not too soft; there is a tiny bit of hardness to them.) Remove from heat, drain, and set aside.
5. Beat eggs.
6. Combine eggs with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, the herb mixture, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
7. Sauté onions in a large skillet with coconut oil until almost translucent, then add the mushrooms and minced garlic and sauté a few more minutes.
8. Add miso water to the skillet with onion mixture carefully, so it doesn’t splatter.
9. Quickly add chopped broccoli and spinach, and sauté a few minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
10. In the baking dish, layer the lasagna: Start with 1/3 of the tomato sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, then half of the cheese mixture, spread evenly, then half of the vegetable mixture, spread evenly. Repeat the layers. Finish with the last 1/3 of the tomato sauce and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.
11. Bake 25 to 30 minutes.
12. Serve warm.

Notes:
1. I love to use roasted tomato sauce with this recipe.
2. Garlic salt can be found in the spice area at the grocery store. You can also simply mince some garlic and add it to some sea salt to make your own.
3. You can use Vegan egg and cheese options. I have resources and recipes for those in my cookbooks, like “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian,” 2nd edition.

4. I make this herb mixture in a larger version, store it in a glass jar, and use it frequently in many of my recipes.

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Rather than swinging through various diets, it is more important and sustainable to develop a healthy lifestyle and diet that works best for you. This includes not only what to eat or what not to eat, but also how to maintain an active and wholesome lifestyle.
Here are 8 of my top suggestions to help you reach and maintain your optimum weight and goals simply and successfully. They will help you live a healthier life.

1. The first part of an effective, healthy weight loss program should focus primarily on consuming fresh, whole, organic plant-based foods.

If you are really serious about losing weight and getting healthier, then cutting out or down on meat, chicken, fish, dairy or egg-based foods is the optimal way to begin, for at least the first two weeks of your program. The main reason to do this is for your health.

In fact, a recent study was done with 6,000 people between the ages of 50 and 65, who reported eating high creature-sourced protein (for example: beef, pork, lamb, fowl, fish, dairy and eggs). This US Dietary Survey showed that these people not only had a 75 percent increase in dying from ANY cause, but also a quadruple increase in cancer death risk and a quintuple greater increase in death from diabetes, when compared with the low protein intake group.

It is important to note that these associations were either greatly lessened or completely eliminated if the proteins were vegan (plant) based. The composition of amino acids, (building blocks of protein), that are derived from animals (beef, pork, lamb, chicken, fish, dairy and eggs) is different than from plant proteins. What we need are the amino acids, not the proteins themselves.
Focus on eating fresh, whole vegetables and fruits, and avoiding all boxed and packaged foods (which are often highly processed and filled with preservatives). It may feel overwhelming at first, but try to stick with it and it will become easier the more you do it.

2. This healthy lifestyle plan also involves getting yourself moving. Exercise is important for everyone and is necessary to keep your body healthy.

We need to move! If you can’t stand up, then move while seated. Exercise your arms and upper body, if that is all you can do at the moment. For example, while sitting at your desk or sitting in the car, stretch your arms. Stretch and move as much as possible. If you can move more than that, then do what you can or what best fits your body for at least 30 minutes per day, four times per week. Those who can walk, should walk for a minimum of 30 minutes per day (or at least four times per week), preferably in a brisk manner.
Studies show that when you exercise before breakfast, it stabilizes your blood sugar immediately and energizes you for the rest of the day. Also, people who exercise before breakfast lose weight quicker.

In addition to this, if you add short bursts of high intensity to your workout, it can increase your fat burn by up to 36%. For example, if you are walking, add a minute or two of jogging to your walk. If you are on a treadmill, add a minute or two of a faster, more intense pace to the workout intermittently. It is so easy to do, and, wow, what a difference it can make!

Try picking up a new fun form of exercise, such as dance classes or yoga. It’s important to get your body moving on a regular basis.
When you feel ready, increase your exercise time to 45 – 60 minutes every day. If you miss a day, don’t get upset with yourself. Simply get back to your routine again tomorrow. Always be kind to yourself. Just pick up where you left off and get going again. Ideally, we should exercise every single day, even if it’s something as basic as walking or taking the stairs.

Getting your body oxygenated and your circulatory system moving is important to maintaining an active metabolism. It is also very helpful to your overall health and well-being.

3. Start doing weight training!
Weight training doesn’t have to be too heavy. Find what works for you. Weight training increases bone density, and it improves muscle mass, balance, and connective tissue strength. It also increases your metabolism!
Weight training should be a priority if you really want to burn more fat. Lifting weights raises your metabolism long after you finish working out. It is estimated that your metabolism can stay elevated up to 39 hours afterwards! As you build more muscle, muscle is more metabolically active than fat. Some estimate that each extra pound of muscle you gain burns 30 or more extra calories a day. It’s estimated that a pound of muscle burns six calories at rest, compared to two calories burned by a pound of fat.

4. Always eat sitting down at some form of table.
This does not mean eating in the car. In fact, a good lifestyle means to never eat in your car, standing up, walking, or in front of the refrigerator. If you are hungry and standing at the refrigerator, pull up a chair! No, just kidding—but really, don’t stand at the refrigerator and eat! Instead, simply take something out, put it on a small plate, and then sit down at the table to eat your food slowly and mindfully. Enjoy each bite, and chew your food thoroughly. Savor your food and enjoy it. Make it an experience that is fun, enjoyable, and relaxing.

5. Chew your food completely without washing it down with liquids.
In other words, do not drink liquids with your meals. When we are eating our meals, the most important thing is to digest our food completely, absorb the nutrients, and get the waste out of our body as efficiently as possible.
When we drink liquids with our food, we are watering down our digestive juices in our stomach, and the food is not as effectively digested. We also may not chew our food as thoroughly if we wash it down with a liquid. So try to avoid liquids with your meals. Chew your food as completely as possible, until it is almost liquid by the time you swallow it.

6. Eat three good meals a day with little or no snacking.
Eating a healthy breakfast and lunch is an important key to health. Don’t nibble here and there. Snacking can add up quickly without your even noticing how much you actually eat. Small snacks can also make your body dependent upon constant nourishment.
Why would your body consume unwanted extra weight (fat), if it is never hungry? You need to give your body a reason to burn off that weight!

Get your food out, prepare your meal, and put it on a small plate. Sit down and take time to chew your food well. Savor your meals, relax, and enjoy.

7. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day. This means if you are 100 pounds, you would drink 50 ounces of water every day. Quality water is important. Water is a unique element. According to my research, water should have electrolytes and be free of chlorine and fluoride. Electrolyte is a fancy medical term for the word salt. The salt that is unrefined and mineral rich contains an abundance of electrolytes (for example: Bolivian Rose Salt or Himalayan Salt). This not only increases the health properties of water, but it also allows for better absorption into our bodies. Water is important to life.

More than 66% of our body is water. Everyone needs to stay hydrated every single day by drinking high-quality water. (An effective, inexpensive, and portable water filter that you can purchase is the Zero Water Filter Pitcher.) This may be one of the most important things we can do for the health of our body.

The best time to have water is the first thing in the morning when we wake up. This starts the hydration process immediately. Whatever we put into our body first will be absorbed like a sponge, so this is the ideal time to have a large glass of water. It is widely known that many diseases are caused by cellular dehydration. Therefore, it is imperative to stay hydrated in order to avoid disease.
Even in the winter, when we may not feel like we need to drink as much water, we need to stay just as hydrated as we do in the summer.

8. Cut wheat and corn out of your diet.
Wheat and corn should be greatly reduced or completely eliminated from your diet. Wheat has the unusual characteristic of being able to raise blood sugar rapidly. Additionally, due to today’s genetic modification of wheat, it now contains up to 80% more gluten than it did 100 years ago.

Gluten is the glue-like substance that is part of various grains. When we eat wheat or other grains that contain gluten (and are refined, highly processed, or have had the fiber removed), it is quite literally like eating glue. If you do choose to eat it, eat organic, non-GMO, and whole, sprouted grain varieties.

Also, according to Dr. Steven Greer, in 1960, Archer Daniels purposely developed a variety of wheat with a protein called gliadin, to have more addictive characteristics in it than cocaine or heroin. You can find this gliadin protein in wheat, rye, and barley. You may also find it in oats, even though oats are gluten free.

He said they developed it to have unnatural molecules in it that trick the thyroid into thinking it is T1, T2, T3, and T4, but it is not. This creates chemical imbalances. What this will do is effectively shut down the thyroid, which is our master gland that controls many of our bodily functions. The person who ingests this wheat (grain) variety will be unable to get enough energy, and this leads to depression.
Dr. Greer and David Wilcock said this became public knowledge from four of the scientists who worked on this food for the Archer Daniels Company and reported this to the Christian Broadcasting Network. Gliadin has also been found to create permeability of the intestines. These are some of the reasons why so many people are having intestinal problems, thyroid problems, and are finding that they can’t eat wheat or wheat products. As we can see, it’s not just the gluten that is causing these health problems. (I personally think this should be illegal.)

Corn is not only high in sugar, but is also prone to molds and funguses that can be toxic to us and compromise our immune systems. Most corn today is grown as a genetically modified food, which has a Bt toxin built into it. Studies show that this toxin can eat holes in the stomach and intestinal tract, which causes leaky gut, gluten intolerance, and many other health problems. This Bt toxin is in many GMO (genetically modified) foods, such as soy.

In conclusion, if you commit to this healthy lifestyle (regular exercise, some weight lifting, and wholesome foods) and diet (completely organic, non-GMO, vegetarian or vegan, gluten-free and mostly living, raw food), you can lose anywhere between 5 and 15 pounds per week. It depends on you!

Be sure to read ingredient labels, because corn, soy, and wheat are used in almost all processed foods in one form or another. Become a savvy ingredient label reader!

Find what works best for you by listening to your heart and your own body. You are the best guide and judge of your body and your health. For many of us in transition, whether with new food choices or with life in general, it takes baby steps. Becoming a healthier person is a journey. Simply start the journey, and see where it takes you!

Special Note for a healthier New Year:

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction problems, here is an on-line therapy program that may be able to help. Click here for the website.

Nancy Addison is a certified health counselor, nutritionist, chef, as well as a certified practitioner of Psychosomatic Therapy. She teaches people about living a healthier, happier life through nutrition and lifestyle. She has appeared on NBC, Fox, CBS, and in documentaries (one example- “Eating You Alive”). You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life, or find more easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books. Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

copyright@nancyaddison2020

The information from Nancy Addison and Organic Healthy Lifestyle LLC is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

copyright@nancyaddison2019

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The health benefits of this type of plant-based food are many. When beans are rich in color, then they are high in antioxidants as well, because the antioxidants are in the color pigment. Black beans have the highest amount of antioxidants. Beans have also been shown to reduce the risk of cancer. Beans can also help stabilize blood glucose levels, because of the high fiber content, which makes them a great food for diabetics. In addition to those postivie health benefits, “people who consume beans may be less likely to die of a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular health problem.” They have also been shown to help lower cholesterol levels naturally.

Beans are highly nutritious when prepared properly. This recipe is vegan and gluten-free. Always buy certified organic, non-GMO beans for the most nutrition and health benefits.

Beans are inexpensive and easy to store. Store uncooked, raw beans in a dark, cool, dry place. Beans are easy to freeze and thaw, so make a large batch and freeze some in small glass freezer to oven containers to use later. Beans are one of my favorite things to add to salads, a stir-fry, or have as a side dish with soup or bread.

Note that one pound of dried beans will yield about 5–6 cups cooked beans.

The optional seaweed in this recipe adds nutrients and helps make beans more digestible.

Ingredients:

1 lb. dried beans (any variety)

Pure water, plus more for soaking and cooking

1 tsp. pure coconut oil

2-inch piece seaweed (optional)

unrefined sea salt to taste

Directions:

1. Check beans and discard any that are shriveled or discolored. Also, make sure there are no little stones or foreign matter mixed in with the beans.
2. Sprout the beans, so they are more digestible. Beans have phytic acid that prevents them from being digested easily. Sprouting the beans makes them more nutritious as well as easier to digest.

Soak beans overnight or for a couple of days (depending on size of bean. Large beans need to soak at least 2 or 3 days to sprout.) in pure water. Make sure the dish is large enough for beans to double or triple in size and can hold enough water to cover them by at least two inches. Check them each day and add more water as needed. When you see a tiny split or sprout, they are ready to cook.

3. Discard the water the beans were sprouted in.
4. Put the sprouted beans in a large pot and fill with enough new, purified water to cover the beans by about two
 Add salt, coconut oil and seaweed, if using. Bring water to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to a simmer, and cook beans until
tender, 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of beans. Larger beans will take longer. Add more water if it gets too low and the tops of beans are showing.
6. Remove from heat and they are ready to eat.

Variation: Add a little extra virgin, pure coconut oil for additional richness.

By Nancy Addison

Nancy’s website is www.organichealthylife.com

If you would like more easy, healthy recipes, you can find them in “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian,” 2^nd edition, Page 250, by Nancy Addison. It won Best Specialty Cookbook of the Year, 2017-2018, in the Book Excellence Awards.

copyright@Nancyaddison2015

The post Cook And Prepare Organic Beans A Healthier Way appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Natural foods
 & 
lifestyle adjustments can be implemented right away and make a huge difference in your quality of life. In a recent study, men who were in early stage prostate cancer, who made intensive changes in diet and lifestyle stopped or perhaps even reversed the progression of their illness.” (1)

In this comprehensive study, they chose 93 men that had biopsy-proven prostate cancer who had elected not to undergo conventional treatment.   For one year the group was split into two groups. One did not change anything they were doing, but the second group was placed on a vegan diet (mostly fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains with additional vitamin and mineral supplements) and a lifestyle with moderate aerobic exercise, meditation, yoga and support group sessions.

At the end of one year, the “PSA levels (a protein marker for prostate cancer) decreased in men in the group who made comprehensive lifestyle changes but increased in the comparison group. There was a direct correlation between the degree of lifestyle change and the changes in PSA. Also, they found that serum from the participants inhibited prostate tumor growth in vitro by 70 percent in the lifestyle-change group but only 9 percent in the comparison group. Again, there was a direct correlation between the degree of lifestyle change and the inhibition of prostate tumor growth.” (2)

Also, published studies on milk thistle’s anti-cancer potential show its effectiveness against cancers of the prostate, liver, lung, breast, colon, cervix, skin and ovaries.

Milk thistle is also a powerful means to protect the body against the damage of cancer drugs. It’s frequently used in cancer care to help moderate the toxic effects of radiation and chemotherapy.

The silymarin component of the plant offsets the growth of certain types of cancer cells, including those associated with prostate, skin, and liver cancers. It also helps prevent cancer cells from spreading throughout the body. (3) Oral ingestion of silibinin has also shown effectiveness in preventing the growth, spread, and metastasis of prostate cancer cells, working in part by causing cell cycle arrest. (4)

Isosilybin B is likewise effective in targeting prostate cancer. It helps to maintain healthy prostate cell division inside the body while suppressing the secretion of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a common marker of the disease’s presence and spread. Isosilybin B has also shown efficacy in fighting both hormone-dependent and hormone-independent prostate cancers. It is also efficacious in suppressing a genetic factor linked to the disease’s formation. (5)

Along with the high rates of prostate cancer is the serious problem for men that is Erectile Dysfunction, also known as ED. One survey found that 50% of men aged 40 and up had ED (6), and another found that 33% of men aged 50 and up complained of having ED in the past three months. (7)

Besides the physical effects on health, ED can lead to depression and anxiety, and affect relationships. Fortunately, when you give the body the right tools, it can start to heal itself.

There are all kinds of natural foods you can add to your diet to provide those tools. ED has many causes. ED is a main side effect of many commonly prescribed pharmaceutical drugs, so check the side effects of any pharmaceutical drugs you take. Heart disease, obesity, diabetes, older age, smoking, alcohol, high blood pressure, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle all increase the risk of ED. (8)

Studies show that 70% of all erectile dysfunction caused by non-psychological factors is due to blood vessel problems and diabetes. (9) In fact, the first sign of heart disease is sexual dysfunction. (9)

Even more seriously, men who have ED are 70% more likely to die prematurely than men without ED. (10)

A two-year study took men with ED and placed them on a high-fiber diet of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats (a Mediterranean diet), and the results were better erections. (11)

I often hear men talk about how they crave steak, chicken, fish, and burgers so they can bulk up or be manly. The Paleo diet has been all the rage. These “manly” foods actually produce the exact opposite of what masculine parts need to function.

To prevent and treat erectile dysfunction, choose to cut down on or eliminate steak, burgers, hot dogs, fish, and chicken wings.  Add fresh fruits and vegetables, grilled Portobello mushrooms, sprouted lentils, sprouted quinoa, and sprouted beans to your eating plan, and see what a difference that makes. Look beyond TV commercials and stereotypes of masculinity.

Research shows that healthy, fresh, whole, vegetarian foods actually boost sexual function throughout your lifetime. A more vegetarian diet can do amazing things for your health, and it can be delicious!

Another natural food to try on the road to health is Fenugreek Seeds. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum–graecum) has held a major position in Ayurveda Medicine for thousands of years. It has been traditionally used in cooking, and it has been historically used for supporting liver and gallbladder health, balancing blood sugar, regulating weight, and boosting overall digestive strength.

There is a well-documented study, showing the benefits of supplementing your diet with fenugreek seeds, and its effect on the blood sugar of type 1 diabetics. Poor blood sugar regulation is linked to weight gain, along with an excess of serious health concerns.

Keep in mind, blood sugar imbalances actually start in the liver, and the liver is where fenugreek benefits. In one study with diabetic type 1 patients, there was a 54% reduction of glucose in the first-morning urine, along with significant positive changes in the ability to regulate fats in the liver. (12)

Fenugreek has also been found to help with men’s libido and increase their sexual function. In one study, 60 males between the ages of 25 and 52 with erectile concerns took either fenugreek or a placebo for 6 weeks. The men that took the fenugreek saw considerable improvement in libido and their sexual ability. In addition to this, the men personally reported a positive result in muscle strength, energy and well-being. While the exact components for these effects is still undiscovered, it has been found that fenugreek can play a role in maintaining healthy testosterone levels. (13)

Fenugreek can be taken as a tea with meals, or it can be taken as a supplement in a capsule form.  You can also sprout them and use them on salads or freshly grind them to use as a spice to sprinkle on your food when cooking.

There is a company that is successfully helping men using a non-transdermal patch, which was originally created for the Navy Seals. I have found them to be very positive in so many ways for myself and my clients. People are getting pain relief (especially from old broken bones or traumas), better sleep, and greater energy ( they are being worn by Olympic athletes, and athletes like David Beckham and Serena Williams).

Click here to watch see a website with short videos that explains how this patch therapy works.

If you decide to order, I would order the X39 patch and the spays. If you order please use my link.
They may ask for my ID Number, which is 1439757 and my link says “nancyaddison”

If you do this, I can help you with any questions or situations. My phone number is 214-202-9243. Please text me and tell me in the subject line, Lifewave.

If you order as a preferred customer, you will get some free samples every other month, and at the end of 12 months, you will receive a free month’s supply of the X39 patches, a 99 dollar value.

There is also an herbal supplement, myomin, which may offer some excellent aid to hormone balance for men.

Myomin is often called a Chinese herbal complex. Myomin was developed by Dr. Tsu-Tsair Chi a Chinese-American Doctor and Naturopath.

Myomin is an all-natural herbal formula that contains:

• Aralia,
• Astragalus membranaceous
• Smilax glabra,
• Curcuma zedoria
• Cyperus rotundus

Combine the myomin with Tongkat Ali.

Tongkat Ali has been used in traditional medicine in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other Asian countries to treat malaria, infections, fevers, male infertility, and erectile dysfunction

These testosterone herbs tell the brain to make more testosterone. This combination of myomin and tongkat Ali works best together. These can help you regain your zest for life as well.

Along with those supplements, make sure you are taking at least one drop of iodine every day. Avoid any white iodized salt, it’s not a good source and it’s toxic to your body. You need to use mineral-rich salt daily for
lower blood pressure and more optimum overall health, but the iodine needs to be added to your daily supplement intake.

If you are interested in moving to a more plant-based diet, you may want to read my best-selling, award-winning, book/cookbooks  “How to Be a Healthy Vegetarian“  (second edition) Awarded “Best Diet and Nutrition Book of the Year,” in the Beverly Hills Book Awards and Winner For “Best Specialty Cookbook of the Year” in the Book Excellence Awards 2017 or “Diabetes And Your Diet“  Winner of Best Health Book of the Year, in the International Book Awards, 2017. at this link: Author.to/nancyaddison or you can also visit my home page of this website: www.organichealthylife.com to order the books.

I have taught many Texas men, including Larry Hagman (J. R. Ewing from the show Dallas), how to love being a vegetarian and enjoy the food. When we make the decision to change our diet, that decision can create wonderful results in health and well-being.

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On a visit to spend the Christmas holidays with her, I studied cooking in Cambodia and Thailand. Amanda took some classes with me and we learned so much. I gained a great appreciation for these spicy dishes. My daughter and I now use curry in many of our home cooked meals. It is amazing how good it is, even in the warm summer season.

Curry dishes are rich and savory. Curry spice powders come from Asia. These spices provide a range of health benefits. One key ingredient is the turmeric. Studies have shown that turmeric can help prevent everything from Alzheimer’s disease to cancer.

This recipe is gluten free, and vegan.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

2 T. toasted Sesame oil or coconut oil

2 to 4 ounces thai yellow curry paste

3  cups  of coconut milk

1 red onion, chopped into ½ inch pieces

4 sweet potatoes cut into 1-inch pieces

1 head of cauliflower, cut into 1 inch chunks or flowerlets

1 pound of sliced mushrooms

1 carrot chopped

Tamari – wheat free fermented soy sauce from non-GMO soy or coconut aminos

1 tsp. Turmeric

1 tsp. unrefined sea salt

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a 4-quart heavy pot set over medium-high heat, and when the oil is hot, add the curry paste, oil and onion. Sauté them for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Add the coconut milk, and other ingredients to the pot and sauté another 2 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for another 30 minutes, until sweet potatoes and cauliflower are soft. Keep an eye on the mixture and add more liquid if needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings and coconut aminos/soy sauce.
5. Serve warm with some cooked whole grain, sprouted rice.
6. This dish can keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze it and warm it up another day.

The post Healthy, Vegan, Gluten-free, Curry Recipe appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

We may not be able to prevent ourselves or our loved ones from being affected by daily stresses, but we can choose how we react to them, and how our body is able to handle them.

Being a health counselor and nutritionist, I understand that most people these days need some help once in a while with boosting our mood, reducing or handling stress more effectively, or overcoming depression. There are a number of foods and supplements that can help reduce the effects of stress on our health, help us to sleep better, and fight depression. In this article, I am also going to discuss a few things to avoid in processed or restaurant foods, as well as use of antibiotics, that can be unknowingly contributing to anxiety or depression.

A basic first step is to eat a well-balanced diet of organic fresh fruits and vegetables. I recommend always buying organic, non-GMO foods when possible, because they will have a much higher nutrient content, and less chemical toxins for your body.  Eating a more plant-based diet is recommended.

Some of these plant-based foods are listed below.

Lentils, chickpeas, beans, and quinoa are a wonderful source of protein, but in addition to this, they are rich in B vitamins. The B vitamins have a calming effect on the body. B vitamins can enhance our mood and help reduce anxiety.

Beans and legumes are healthful boosters of both dopamine (essential for the normal functioning of the central nervous system) and norepinephrine (It’s known as the the stress hormone, because it is released in times of high anxiety “fight or flight” situation.), which are both neurotransmitters. (Neurotransmitters are complex chemical couriers that coordinate communication between neurons, which in turn influences every cell, tissue, and system in our body.) What we eat affects the formation of neurotransmitters, and some diet-related neurotransmitters have a significant effect on our mood, our appetite and our cravings.

Romaine lettuce, spinach, turnip greens, mustard greens, parsley, collard greens, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, citrus fruits, lentils, basil, arugula, sunflower seeds, and mushrooms all contain the nutrient folate (B9), which helps us attain a calmer mood.

Enjoy yellow, orange and red fruits and vegetables. Papayas, beets, apples and red bell peppers have Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and folate, which enhance mood, energize, and repair cells damaged from stress. It is wonderful how eating a piece of fresh fruit can help calm the brain.

 Green vegetables like romaine lettuce, spinach, turnip greens, mustard greens, parsley, collard greens, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, and lentils are packed with Vitamin A.

Celery and celery seeds have been found to help lower blood pressure, reduce risk of cancer, lower LDL (bad cholesterol), reduce inflammation, and prevent age-related vision loss. It has been found to aid in the growth and development of nerve cells, creating a soothing effect for nerves. I like having a glass of pure, freshly juiced celery juice by itself a few times a week for the health benefits.

Eat foods that are purple. These foods contain anthocyanin antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation which contributes to bad moods. Purple foods include wild blueberries and purple potatoes.

 Wild Blueberries have been found (in a fully controlled double-blind study) to prevent low mood and depression. The study examined the effects of the flavonoid-rich blueberries on mood in young people, and found that the blueberries significantly boosted mood, which in turn helped prevent depression in the young people. Wild blueberries have twice the antioxidant power of regularly cultivated blueberries, and more antioxidants than twenty other fruits and vegetables, including cranberries, strawberries, plums, raspberries, and even cultivated blueberries.

 Purple potatoes were considered “treasures” of the Incas. Purple or otherwise, don’t peel these purple potatoes.  The skins of vegetables and fruits commonly contain high levels of antioxidants and nutrients, and are frequently much greater than the fruit or vegetable itself. (This also applies to skins you would not normally think to consume, like lemon skins).

The purple potato skins contain iodine, which is the main nutrient that supports your thyroid and helps stabilize hormone levels. This will help prevent mood swings. One of the particular health benefits of purple potatoes are that they can stop the blood vessels from feeding cancer cells, they boost the immune system and help in digestion health.

My children always loved it when I made purple mashed potatoes when their friends came over for dinner. It made our dinner more colorful and fun.

In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, here are some effective stress-reducing foods and supplements you can add to your diet –

Maca root is a wonderful superfood that originated in the Andes. The raw powder of the maca root helps the body cope with stress. It contains more than 55 beneficial phytochemical nutrients that help our bodies regulate hormones, relieve the symptoms of depression, reduce stress, elevate mood, and increase stamina. Maca root has been found to fortify weak immune systems and aid in re-mineralizing the body.

Maca root helps the adrenal or suprarenal glands, which can be weakened by stress. These glands are chiefly responsible for regulating our body’s stress response. Common symptoms of adrenal fatigue include dark circles under the eyes, low blood sugar, lower back pain, knee weakness or pain, fatigue, cravings for sugar or salt, chronic infections, and lack of libido. The adrenal glands are very important for our immune system and proper thyroid function. Not many foods support and nurture the adrenal glands

Maca comes in gold, red and black colors. The red maca is most beneficial for balancing hormones, and increasing strength and stamina. Out of the three varieties, the red type has the highest amount of amino acids, (the building blocks of protein).

I buy raw, organic red or black maca root powder, because the raw root is not processed over 118°F, and therefore it retains the live enzymes necessary to feed the cells of the body. You can purchase maca root powder at health food stores or online. Maca root does not have much flavor, so you can add it to many foods. I add it to smoothies in the morning, and it goes well with fruit or cacao smoothies.

Drink plenty of high-quality water and avoid chlorinated and fluoridated tap water. The chlorine can destroy the vitamin E and the good probiotics in your body. The fluoride and the chlorine can prevent the thyroid from absorbing iodine which is the necessary nutrient needed for the thyroid to function properly. The thyroid can directly affect your mood and energy levels.

Foods And Beverages For Balancing Hormones

Hormones can play a part in how we feel. Depression, anxiety, insomnia, low libido are all signs that hormones may be imbalanced. Tulsi tea (It is also known as Holy basil), is a member of the mint family and a sacred plant in India. has been shown to help regulate hormones, relieve stress, as well as other health benefits.

Tulsi tea (Holy Basil) is a powerful antioxidant with demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to the tulsi tea, consuming healthy fats, like avocado or avocado oil, coconut oil, cold-pressed hemp or flaxseed oil (Omega 3 fatty acid) can boost your mood, as well as help in regulating hormones.

Also, according to William Li, M.D., President of the Angiogenesis Foundation, beets are particularly good, because eating them contribute a particular bacterium, Lactobacillus reuteri that supports the immune system. This healthy bacterium will enable your body’s ability to boost testosterone production, help your body reduce fat cell production (so you stay slim) and decrease tumor growth.  This beneficial bacterium will actually talk to your brain and have it release oxytocin that makes us feel good.

Make sure you avoid using alcohol-based or toxic mouthwashes because these toxic mouthwashes or toothpastes will destroy your beneficial bacteria that are naturally in your mouth. These beneficial bacteria are important to have in your mouth when you are chewing food. (Yes, we all need to slow down and chew our food well.) These bacteria help process things like the nitrates (naturally occurring, not the synthetic variety) in the beets, or glucose syanaze

in watercress, so you can obtain the most optimum health benefits from consuming healthy fruits and vegetables, like beets, onion, garlic, greens, watercress, etc. When we eat nitrates from plants, the chewing and natural bacteria in our mouth convert these nitrates into nitrites.

These natural nitrates, that we have converted from the nitrates when absorbed, are stored in our cells, are then turned into nitric oxide, which is a compound that’s proven to relax blood vessels and increase blood flow.

Many people struggle with hormone balance. Using a bio-identical compounded hormone created from yams is beneficial and avoids the side effects that can come from using synthetic versions.  It is recommended to balance estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.  A low testosterone can create depression. Low progesterone can affect your ability to sleep.

To determine your individual hormonal needs, have your physician thoroughly evaluate your hormone levels with a blood or urine test. You may need to specifically request non-synthetic, hormone therapy. Some physicians are not aware that there are natural, compounded hormone therapy and you may need to help inform your physician or find a naturopathic physician who will prescribe these for you.

After starting a natural hormone replacement program, your physician will monitor and re-evaluate your hormone levels, to assure they are maintained at their optimum range.

I order foods from the Health Ranger’s store. He analyzes the products personally for purity. (He carries a variety of things other than foods, including water purifiers, essential oils, etc.)

Supplements

1. Complex Amino Acids

Complex amino acid therapy has been found to help with many types of health problems, including lifting mood, calming the mind and creating a sense of well-being.  People who suffer from depression, anxiety and low mood could supplement their body with complex amino acids, because they get converted into neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters include serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine, and all of them play a major role in brain and bodily functions.

In a recent study, the researchers found that elderly people given complex amino acid therapy had “unequivocal improvement” with their dementia.

According to researchers, an imbalance of serotonin levels could be one of the causes of bipolar disorder. This is because this chemical is connected to body functions like eating, memory,  ability to sleep, impulse responses, learning, and sexual. When we are low in Dopamine we feel no pleasure, our world looks bland, we feel an inability to “love”, and we have no remorse about personal behavior.

There are foods that supply complex amino acids naturally. Here are a few good choices;

1. Banana

A banana is a natural food source of tyrosine. Tyrosine is the amino acid neurons turn into norepinephrine and dopamine. Norepinephrine and dopamine are neurotransmitters that are important in creating our ability to be motivated, concentrate and have a more effective memory.

     2. Beets (which are called beetroot in the UK)

While in other parts of the world (such as the U.S.A.) they are commonly called “beets” and their juice “beet juice”. Beets contain the amino acid Betaine. It is an antidepressant. Betaine acts as a stimulant for the production of SAM-e (S-adenoslmethionine). The body cannot do without SAM-e, which it produces. SAM-e is directly related to the production of certain hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin.    

3. Watermelon juice and watermelon rind

Watermelon and watermelon rind are both rich with vitamins A, B6, and C. Vitamin B6 is used by the body to manufacture neurotransmitters such as serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. I frequently put the cleaned rind and the meat of the watermelon in a blender and create a delicious healthy drink. It is hydrating, has the fiber and the nutrients.

In addition to consuming healthy foods that contain complex amino acids, 5 HTP is a great supplement that contains these complex amino acids.  It has been studied extensively and has been shown to boost the mood in as little as 20 minutes.  L-Theanine is a complex amino acid that can help relieve stress and promote relaxation.

In addition to complex amino acids, there is a supplement, Protandim, that has been studied extensively and found to help with cell damage and oxidative stress. It can help reduce oxidative stress by 40% in 30 days. (I recently started taking it for my overall health.)

It’s been nominated for two Nobel Prizes for Medicine and has had over 26 peer-reviewed medical papers written about it.

ABC did a PrimeTime Update on this supplement to show it’s benefits for aging and overall health. 
(If you want to try this supplement, let me know, and I’ll be happy to help you in choosing which one of their products would be best suited for you and your health situation.)


Hemp Oil is another good supplement. Many clinical studies have shown that hemp oil benefits include anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsant, anti-oxidant, and anti-psychotic properties. There are encouraging trials with hemp oil being used as medicine for the treatment of neuro-inflammation, epilepsy, oxidative stress, nausea, anxiety and schizophrenia. 

Vitamins

Make sure you are not low in Vitamin D. Vitamin D is a prohormone and helps prevent inflammation. A deficiency of vitamin D can cause depression and has also been linked to cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and some autoimmune diseases.

According to Creighton University, “Researchers are challenging the intake of vitamin D recommended by the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine saying their Recommended Dietary Allowance for vitamin D underestimates the need by a factor of ten.” Robert Heaney, M.D., of Creighton University, wrote: “We call for the NAS-IOM and all public health authorities concerned with transmitting accurate nutritional information to the public to designate, as the RDA, a value of approximately 7,000 IU/day from all sources.”

Magnesium Chloride can help reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia, as well as help with muscle cramping. I use the Magnesium Chloride by Elektra. You can soak in a bath with it or use the lotion with magnesium in it. Here is a link to the website: https://www.magnesiumviaskin.com/?ref=10  Magnesium needs to be replenished on a daily basis.

What Should We Avoid?

To start off a healthier eating plan to help relieve depression or anxiety, eliminate foods that have additives, preservatives, and food color dyes.

On a side note, if you are a coffee drinker, or have caffeine as a part of your diet, be aware that caffeine has been shown to suppress serotonin, as well as cause deficiencies in magnesium, iron and B vitamins.  (B vitamins are essential for our body to have a healthy nervous system, adrenal function and a healthy response to stress).  In fact, according to Duke University Medical Center, people who drink coffee have elevated blood pressure and higher levels of stress hormones all day and into the evening, creating a scenario in which the body acts like it is continually under stress.

Coffee’s diuretic effects can cause your body to excrete vitamins A, D, E, K and the essential fatty acids in the urine.  If you rely on caffeine, and suffer from stress or depression, you may want to reconsider if you really want caffeine as a part of your daily diet.

Increasingly since the 1960s, more people have come to depend on processed foods that contain colored dyes, MSG, preservatives and synthetic additives, and high levels of caffeine. Many foods such as juices, soft drinks, candy, gelatins, breakfast cereals, baked and snack foods, chips, crackers, cookies, salad dressings, frozen desserts, and even food you wouldn’t normally suspect, such as pickles or fresh produce, are coated in dye to make them look more pleasing or have MSG (monosodium glutamate) added to make people think they taste good.

A 68-page report called Food Dyes: A Rainbow of Risks by the Center for Science in the Public Interest states: “Studies of the nine dyes currently approved by the FDA suggest, if not prove, that most of the dyes cause health problems, including cancer, hypersensitivity, or neurotoxicity (including hyperactivity and behavioral problems).  In many ways, we may be able to help ourselves by cleaning up our diet and eating healthier foods.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer. The component glutamate, or glutamic acid, is an excitatory amino acid neurotransmitter in the brain. These neurotransmitters in the brain are normal, but when there is an excess of them, cells will be over-stimulated and die. According to neurosurgeon Dr. Russell Blaylock’s book Excitotoxins: The Taste that Kills, these excitotoxins will stimulate neurons in the brain until the neurons die as a result. This causes various degrees of brain damage. MSG has since been added to almost all processed foods, including the sweeteners NutraSweet and aspartame. It is found in foods at almost all fast-food restaurants and even other restaurants you might not suspect.  The reason MSG has become such a huge part of the food industry is because it works on the brain as a pleasure trigger, making you think food tastes better. So, food that normally tastes bland may taste great with MSG added to it. The diet food industry has especially benefited from using MSG.

However, MSG can send pleasure impulses to the brain until it kills that part of the brain. This can lead to depression. Dr. Blaylock has tried for many years to educate people about the toxicity of this additive in our food supply.

The FDA has no limit on how much MSG can be added to food. Theoretically, in children, the long-term effects can be attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, and other learning disabilities. In adults, conditions such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Lou Gehrig’s disease, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune disease, sleep disorders, migraines, depression and the inability to lose weight may be linked to excitotoxin damage. Over the years, more and more MSG has been added to foods.

Hydrolyzed proteins, also used as flavor enhancers, are proteins that have been chemically broken down into amino acids. When they are digested, the result can be the creation of free glutamate, which joins with free sodium in the body to form MSG. This means that while the ingredient label will list only “hydrolyzed protein,” the effect on the body is the same as if the product contained MSG.

Free glutamate can cause the body to react as if a drug had stimulated the nervous system. It can affect insulin metabolism, leading to excessive insulin secretion by the pancreas. Some common symptoms of a reaction to free glutamate are anxiety attacks, mood swings, depression,  asthma-like symptoms, attention deficit disorder, burning sensations, carpal tunnel syndrome, chest pains, diarrhea, disorientation and confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, flushing, gastric distress, headaches and migraines, hyperactivity in children, infertility and other endocrine problems, insomnia, irregular or rapid heartbeat, joint pain, mouth lesions, nausea and vomiting, numbness of parts of the body such as the fingertips, seizures, shortness of breath, skin rash, slurred speech, stomachaches, tremors, and weakness.

Click here for a complete list of hidden sources of MSG that Dr. Blaylock includes in his book Excitotoxins: The Taste that Kills. Many of these look just like “normal” food ingredients (a few examples of these: textured protein, bouillon, broth, stock, flavoring, natural flavoring, seasoning, spices, hydrolyzed oat flour, malt flavoring and/or extract, enzymes, and soy protein concentrate or isolate). Many of them are added to alternative meat products sold as vegetarian foods. That is why it is becoming more and more important for your health to buy whole, fresh foods and make meals yourself.

To be even more tricky, some of the ingredients aren’t MSG when they are put in food, but they create MSG when they touch saliva. So, they can say, it doesn’t have MSG, but when you ingest it, it becomes MSG. You may want to read more about this in Dr. Blaylock’s articles and books.

Avoid Soy

Another food to avoid is soy. Avoid soy and soy products that aren’t fermented. Soy foods are promoted as being healthy, but they are very hard on the body and extremely high in goitrogens – substances that are known to suppress thyroid function and actually promote hypothyroidism.  Unfermented soy is also high in phytic acid and can keep the body from absorbing other essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc and particularly protein. It’s been found to cause brain damage and cancer.

The thyroid is a master gland that controls almost every system of the body from the heart, GI tract, and weight, as well as sleep, mood, and the growth of hair, skin, and nails. One of the most reliable ways of spotting a thyroid problem is a basal body temperature below the normal 98.6 Fahrenheit.  Be sure to check your morning temperature three days in a row to confirm the actual average. Research shows that taking a natural supplement containing both iodine and iodide is very important to healthy thyroid function.  Iodine and Iodide have different functions, and we require both for optimum functioning of the thyroid.

I have always found that working in my garden or preparing food for the table to be a very relaxing and calming experience. When you are preparing a meal, light some candles, put on nice music, enjoy a cup of warm chamomile tea (natural caffeine-free chamomile tea has a calming effect on the body), and make it a wonderful, peaceful experience. This can set the tone that can help relieve stress and anxiety.

In conclusion, mood can be boosted tremendously by consuming healthy foods and supplements that fight depression and avoiding ingredients that can cause depression and anxiety. By eating a nutritious diet, a person can not only lift their mood but also live a happier, healthier life.

The post Foods That Fight Depression appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

There are several myths about vegan or vegetarian protein.

For instance, in the 1971 book, Diet for a Small Planet, Frances Moore Lappé wrote that plants contained “incomplete proteins” with inadequate amounts of specific essential amino acids for them to meet the dietary needs of people. She emphasized the need to combine vegetable-based foods to obtain the complete amino acid complexes needed for optimum health when choosing not to consume animal protein.

However, according to more modern research by Dr. John McDougall, Lappé did not understand the scientific research on human protein needs and the sufficiency of plant-based foods. Dr. McDougall says that plant combining “is unnecessary and implies that it is difficult to obtain ‘complete’ proteins from vegetables without detailed nutritional knowledge. Because of her complicated and incorrect ideas, people are frightened away from vegetable-based diets.”

Thankfully such myths are slowly but surely being dismissed as untrue. The American Dietetic Association (ADA) revised its position statement on vegetarian diets and now agrees that well-planned vegetarian diets are “a healthy, nutritionally adequate dietary practice for all stages of life.”

In addition to this, according to Mladen Golubic, MD, PhD of the Cleveland Heart Clinic: A national (US) dietary survey was completed with over 6,000 people between the ages of 50 and 65 years old. It was found that those who reported high protein intake (example: eggs, dairy, fowl, pork, cows, lamb, etc.), increased their risk of death by any disease by 75 percent.

The study showed a quadruple increase of cancer death during the following 18 years and a quintuple increase of death from diabetes. The participants with a moderate intake of protein had a triple increase in their risk of death due to cancer when compared with the low protein intake group. “It is important to note that these associations of death by disease were completely eradicated if the ingested proteins were “plant-derived,” Dr. Golubic says.

He explained that the composition of complex amino acids, (which are the building blocks of protein), that is derived from animals, acts very differently than the amino acids from plant protein. What we need are amino acids, not the proteins themselves.

Plant-based foods are extremely high in complex amino acids, and can provide quality protein, as well as other nutrients.

I can’t tell you how many people I have met who have told me they used to be vegetarian or vegan, but they had to go back to eating meat because they didn’t feel healthy or were hungry all the time.

In actuality, it can be quite easy to get all of the nutrients you need if you just know what nutrients your body requires and where to get them.

Best Sources Of Protein For A Vegan Or Vegetarian Diet

The health benefits of legumes, which most of us know as beans, peas, or lentils, are that they are high in fiber, amino acids (which are the chemicals that combine to create protein), folate (Vitamin B9), zinc, iron, and magnesium.

• Beans: When beans are rich in color, then they are high in antioxidants as well, because the antioxidants are in the color pigment. Black beans have the highest number of antioxidants. Beans also help prevent blood sugar levels from rising too quickly after a meal, making beans a good food choice for people with diabetes or hypoglycemia.

• Lentils: Lentils are edible seeds — they come in black, red, brown, green and orange varieties — that belong to the legume family. They can help improve digestion, contribute to heart health, help control diabetes and contribute to weight loss. Plus, they’re one of the oldest known sources of food, dating back more than 9,000 years. Lentils have an incredible amount of protein for a plant-based food and contain up to 35 percent of the complex amino acids (the building blocks of protein) your body needs — which is comparable to beef, poultry, fish and dairy.

• Nuts: Nuts are perfect foods because they are a combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrate. However, nuts contain delicate polyunsaturated fatty acids that can become rancid shortly after being shelled, so store them in a tightly sealed container (preferably glass) in the refrigerator. Almost all nuts contain enzyme inhibitors and phytic acid, which can prevent the body from absorbing some nutrients. To help diminish the phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors, and to make them more digestible, place them in a glass or steel bowl and soak them for 12–18 hours. When buying nuts and seeds, look for products that are sprouted or have been soaked.

Try these recipes using the best sources of protein for a vegan or vegetarian diet, below to incorporate more of them into your diet:

1. Sprouted Beans

The optional seaweed in this recipe adds nutrients and helps make the beans more digestible. Serve them on top of a salad for a light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. dried beans (any variety)
• Water, plus more for soaking and cooking
• 1 tsp. pure coconut oil
• 2-inch piece seaweed (optional)
• unrefined sea salt to taste

Directions:

1. Check beans and discard any that are shriveled or discolored. Also, make sure there are no little stones or foreign matter mixed in with the beans.

2. Sprout the beans, so they are more digestible. Beans have phytic acid that prevents them from being digested easily. Sprouting the beans makes them more nutritious as well as easier to digest.

Soak beans overnight or for a couple of days (Depending on the size of the bean, large beans need to soak at least 2 or 3 days to sprout) in pure water. Make sure the dish is large enough for beans to double or triple in size and can hold enough water to cover them by at least two inches. Check them each day and add more water as needed. When you see a tiny split or sprout, they are ready to cook.

3. Discard the water the beans were sprouted in.

4. Put the sprouted beans in a large pot and fill with enough new, purified water to cover the beans by about two inches. Add salt, coconut oil and seaweed, if using. Bring water to a boil.

5. Reduce heat to a simmer, and cook beans until tender, 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of beans. Larger beans will take longer. Add more water if it gets too low and the tops of beans are showing.

6. Remove from heat, and they are ready to eat.

Variation: Add a little extra virgin or pure coconut oil for additional richness.

2. Nutty Sweet Rice with Lentils

I also add some coconut oil for the savoriness it adds to the recipe. In addition to making the dish taste more satisfying, coconut oil increases energy levels, improves skin health, helps in stress reduction, increases good cholesterol, can aid in preventing liver disease, eases asthma symptoms, and can help control blood sugar.

Ingredients:

• 2 c. whole-grain, medium, sprouted brown rice
• 1⁄4 c. sprouted lentils (To sprout lentils, soak them overnight in pure water and then drain off the water before cooking in fresh water. This removes the phytic acid.)
• 1⁄4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
• 6 c. non-chlorinated water
• 1–2 vegetable bouillon cubes
• 1 T. extra virgin, pure, organic coconut oil
• 1⁄2 c. pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
• 1⁄2 c. raisins
• 1⁄4 c. raw coconut flakes

Directions:

1. Rinse rice and lentils in a small-weave sieve until they run clean.

2. Dissolve bouillon cube in 6 c. water in a large pot.

3. Add rice, lentils, sea salt, coconut oil, and half of the nuts and raisins.

4. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to a simmer.

5. Cover the pot and do not disturb for 35–40 minutes. Do not stir.

6. When it looks as if all the water is absorbed, rice and lentils are ready.

7. Add ghee, if using, to rice and lentil mixture and gently toss.

8. Gently scoop out rice and lentils, and add coconut and remaining nuts and raisins.

Variation: Add a little sauteed onion after cooking for a richer flavor.

I wish you true health on your vegan journey!

copyright@nancyaddison2012

For another article related to skin and aging, click here.

The post Best Sources Of Protein For A Vegan Or Vegetarian Diet With Delicious Recipes appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

This may surprise you and may go against what you have heard for so many years, but according to Mladen Golubic, MD, PhD of The Cleveland Heart Clinic: The more protein—especially animal protein—one eats, the higher the risk of different chronic diseases.

In fact, a recent study was done with 6,000 people between the ages of 50 and 65, who reported eating high creature sourced protein (for example: beef, pork, lamb, fowl, fish, dairy, and eggs). This dietary survey showed that these people not only had a 75 percent increase in dying from ANY cause, but also a quadruple increase in the chance of dying from cancer and a quintuple greater increase in the chance of dying from diabetes, when compared with the low protein intake group!

It is important to note that these associations were either greatly lessened or completely eliminated, if the proteins were vegan (plant) based. The composition of complex amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, that is derived from animals, acts very differently than the amino acids from plant protein. What we need are amino acids, not the proteins themselves.

In this article, (I also going into detail on nutrition for vegetarians/vegans in my award-winning cookbook, How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition) I am going to cut through some of this information and provide some research and answers that may help you with a healthier eating plan that could really make an impact on your health and well-being.

Protein is made up of amino acids, which are crucial for building and maintaining cells and tissues. The body uses amino acids to make hemoglobin and insulin. Protein (amino acid) is also essential for maintaining healthy sugar levels in the blood, especially when eating carbohydrates.

Yet ideas about how much and what type of protein we need have changed over time. Even today, experts’ opinions vary. What is important is that you make the right diet choices for your individual needs. Let’s look at all the research to date.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, Russell Henry Chittenden, the father of biochemistry, was disturbed that physicians were recommending high-protein diets of 135 grams a day. He thought this was wrong and set out to test this dietary theory. Chittenden began by doing a study on himself using a low-protein diet. He lost weight, had more energy, got rid of his arthritic joint pain, and was, in his opinion, healthier than he had been on a high-protein diet.

He began testing colleagues, students, and athletes at Yale University. On the low-protein diet, they all had more energy, felt better, and actually increased their performance ability by more than 35 percent. In 1904, Chittenden concluded that “35–50 grams of protein a day was adequate for adults, and individuals could maintain their health and fitness on this amount. Studies over the past century have consistently confirmed Professor Chittenden’s findings.”  The current goverment recommended daily allowance of protein for adults is 46–56 grams per day.

Some studies say that the amount and type of protein a person should eat depends upon his or her blood type. Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo and Catherine Whitney’s book Eat Right 4 Your Type looks at the connection between blood type, diet, and health. My blood type is O, as is my daughter’s. The book says that “O blood types are meant to thrive best on a high protein (red meat) and low carbohydrate diet.”

I have been vegetarian for 31 years, and my daughter has been a vegetarian for her whole life of 32 years. We seem to do quite well on a vegetarian (mostly vegan) diet, but we do make sure we consume enough protein-rich plant foods like beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, whole-grain rice, and quinoa, and have a good amount of healthy fats in our diet.

It is up to you to decide if this theory is right for you.

Many athletes today are filling their bodies with protein-rich food, thinking it will make them stronger and their muscles bigger.

According to the Vegetarian Resource Group: Athletes used to eat thick steaks before competition because they thought it would improve their performance. Protein supplements are sold at health food stores. This concern about protein is misplaced.

Although protein is certainly an essential nutrient which plays many key roles in the way our bodies function, we do not need huge quantities of it. In reality, we need small amounts of protein. Only one calorie out of every ten we take in needs to come from protein. Athletes do not need much more protein than the general public.

This is backed up in an AARP article (May 22,  2009, “Eat the Right Kinds Of Protein: Don’t Overdo Protein; Do it Right. Here’s How) by tennis athlete Martina Navratilova (a vegetarian), who says: “On days that I work out, I’ll have a little protein with some carbs after exercising. This combo speeds up the manufacture of new glycogen (the carbohydrate that is stored in muscle and supplies energy) and elevates key hormones in the body that are involved in muscle repair and growth. In addition, the snack amplifies the fuel I get from carbs.”

This fits in with what I have read from other top athletes like Brendan Brazier, two-time Canadian 50K ultra marathon champion. He thinks recovery time from working out is really the most critical factor for success as an athlete, rather than protein intake. He lives and thrives on a 100 percent plant-based diet.

Many vegan proteins are a combination of carbohydrates and protein. You can find some great information about protein and the vegan diet on the vegan athlete website. Our bodies are all different, and our blood types are different. You need to find what works best for you.

There are several myths about protein. For instance, in the 1971 book Diet for a Small Planet, Frances Moore Lappé wrote that plants contained “incomplete proteins” within adequate amounts of specific essential amino acids, in order for them to meet the dietary needs of people. She emphasized the need to combine vegetable-based foods to obtain the complete amino acid complexes needed for optimum health when choosing not to consume animal protein.

However, according to Dr. John McDougall, Lappé did not understand the scientific research on human protein needs and the sufficiency of plant-based foods. Dr. McDougall says that plant combining “is unnecessary and implies that it is difficult to obtain ‘complete’ proteins from vegetables without detailed nutritional knowledge. Because of her complicated and incorrect ideas, many people are frightened away from vegetable-based diets.”

Thankfully such myths are slowly but surely being dismissed as untrue. The American Dietetic Association (ADA)revised its position statement on vegetarian diets and now agrees that well-planned vegetarian diets are “a healthy, nutritionally adequate dietary practice for all stages of life.”

As for the amount of protein we eat, it is not practical or very accurate to measure it on a daily basis. 0.8 g/kg is generous. Guidelines from the World Health Organization, specify that 0.5 g/kg is adequate for good health. Make sure you get enough calories from unprocessed whole foods of plant origin and you will get enough protein. You should eat a variety of legumes (beans of any type, shape, or color, including soybeans, lentils, and peas), and 100 percent whole-grain products and vegetables. Do not worry about getting enough proteins. If you get enough calories from these plant-based wholefoods, you are getting enough protein.

As for other nutrition, there is not a single nutrient (with the possible exception of vitamin B12) that you cannot get from plants. In fact, meat or fish do not have any dietary fiber, and only minuscule amounts of beneficial compounds that are not technically essential nutrients. However, these essential nutrients are richly present in organically grown, non-GMO plants and seem quite beneficial for human health.

Dr. Andrew Weil, a prominent expert in the health field, also addressed this subject: You may have heard that vegetable sources of protein are incomplete and become complete only when correctly combined. Research has discredited that notion, so you don’t have to worry that you won’t get enough usable protein if you don’t put together some magical combination of foods at each meal.

Whether or not you’re a vegetarian, I recommend that you divide your daily calories as follows: 40–50 percent from carbohydrates (including vegetables, fruit, whole grains, starchy roots and tubers, and legumes), 30 percent from fat, and 20–30 percent from protein, which amounts to between 100 and 150 grams on a 2,000 calorie-a-day diet. Dr. Weil, actually recommends more protein than Dr. Chittenden. In my opinion, you have to decide what type and amount of protein works best for you.

Dennis Gordon, MEd, RD, voices the same opinion as Dr. Weil and Dr. McDougall. In the article “Vegetable Proteins Can Stand Alone,” Gordon wrote: Complementing proteins is not necessary with vegetable proteins. The myth that vegetable source proteins need to be complemented is similar to the myths that persist about sugar making one’s blood glucose go up faster than starch does. These myths have great staying power despite there being no evidence to support them and plenty to refute them.

Protein myths have been around for almost a century, but beans, seeds, leafy greens, legumes, and grains are all sources of healthy vegan protein. In fact, leafy greens are among the best sources of protein. For example, 45 percent of spinach is protein.

Types of Vegan Protein Sources

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are perfect foods because they are a combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrate. They contain delicate polyunsaturated fatty acids that can become rancid shortly after being shelled, so store them in a tightly sealed container (preferably glass) in the refrigerator. Nuts that come from tropical climates can contain high levels of fungal mycotoxins, which result from improper storage.

Almost all nuts and seeds also contain certain compounds that include enzyme inhibitors and phytic acid, which can prevent the body from absorbing some nutrients. To help diminish the phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors, and to make them more digestible, place them in a glass or steel bowl and soak them for 12–18 hours in non-chlorinated water and a little bit of whole sea salt. If desired, you can dehydrate or roast them in the oven at a low temperature. Eat them within a few days. When buying nuts and seeds, look for products that are sprouted or have been soaked. You may want to have your physician check your mineral levels if you have a diet high in nuts and seeds.

Pine nuts (pignoli) are nature’s only source of pinolenic acid, which helps diminish your appetite. They have the highest concentration of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that aids the liver in eliminating harmful triglycerides from our body, which helps protect our heart. Pine nuts are also packed with 3 mg of iron per one-ounce serving and are rich in Vitamin B1 and Vitamin B3, manganese, copper, magnesium, molybdenum, and zinc, as well as being a source of Vitamin B2, Vitamin E, and potassium.

There are more than 29 varieties of pine nuts. Most of the pine nuts in US grocery stores are from trees grown in China, Mexico, and Korea. All pine nuts are nutritious, but the most nutrient-dense are Mediterranean pine nuts, which come from the Stone Pine (Pinus pinea, or Umbrella Pine) native to Portugal, Spain, and Italy. Mediterranean pine nuts are lower in calories, have a great ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 essential fatty acids, have a higher level of phytosterols, (which are known to lower cholesterol), and have a greater protein content than other varieties of pine nut. Pine nuts are wonderful to have as a snack or add to a meat substitute, protein drink, or smoothie.

Hemp seeds are actually nuts. They contain significant amounts of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, as well as protein. They also contain significant amounts of Vitamin E, which is important for the thyroid gland. Hemp seeds are seen as an excellent food source because of their great combination of high-quality oil, or good fat (44 percent), protein (33 percent), and fiber (12 percent).
Hemp protein contains all the complex amino acid proteins, and is extremely similar to the type of protein in animal foods. It has a wonderful digestibility and appears to be free of the anti-nutrients found in soy. Hemp seeds deliver a good source of readily absorbable, nutrient-dense protein that can be readily utilized by the body.88

Almonds are actually seeds. They are a powerhouse of nutrients, including manganese, magnesium, copper, Vitamin B2, and phosphorus, and are a great source of protein and fiber. One quarter cup of almonds has 12 grams of protein. That is more than twice the amount of protein in one egg. However, almonds contain 1,800 more Omega 6 fatty acids than Omega 3 fatty acids. This can seriously throw off the balance of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids in the body. For that reason, I tend to use more whole-grain rice or coconut milk these days than almond milk.

Walnuts are especially good for the vegetarian diet. They are high in protein; are a very good source of manganese, copper, tryptophan, and Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids; and have a fairly good ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids (four Omega 6s to one Omega 3) with only eight percent saturated fat.

Cashews are a very good source of copper, magnesium, tryptophan, and phosphorus. Copper is necessary to maintain healthy bones and connective tissues. Cashews have 117 Omega 6 fatty acids to one Omega 3, and have 12.5 percent saturated fat. I love cashews, but I try to combine them with other nuts and seeds when I eat them to help balance out the Omegas and saturated fats.
Pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein and fiber, as well as minerals, including zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and manganese. Pumpkin seeds have 117 Omega 6 fatty acids to one Omega 3 and have a saturated fat content of 14 percent. Interestingly, pumpkin seeds are terrific at helping the body get rid of parasites.

I am a certified wildlife rehabilitator, and I use pumpkin seeds on a regular basis when feeding the wild animals, I rehabilitate. I grind the seeds and immediately add them to the animals’ food, and it is amazing to me how many tape worms and other types of parasites come out in their bowel movements. Because of this, I use pumpkin seeds frequently, in a freshly ground form, in my own foods.
Protein Supplements

Sometimes vegans feel they are just not getting enough food, protein, or sustenance. They probably need concentrated nutrients from protein and carbohydrates, along with some good fat. When the body is getting a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fat from nutrient-dense, whole food, full of live enzymes, the body will feel nutritionally satisfied.

Studies have shown that after an intense workout, it is helpful to replenish your glycogen by having some carbohydrates combined with some protein, which appears to support muscle. The fat tells the body how to utilize the protein and carbohydrates. When I use a meal replacement or protein powder, I add about a tablespoon of good fat to the mixture, usually coconut oil, flax seed oil, avocado oil or safflower oil. Sometimes, I’ll add a combination of two or three of them.

If you choose to use a protein supplement, I recommend using one that contains protein that is organic, vegan, gluten-free, raw, and whole-grain. Protein supplements made from sprouted seeds, nuts, whole grains, whole-grain rice, hemp seeds, legumes, peas, and beans are some of my favorites. When buying protein supplements, make sure they aren’t mystery protein by reading the ingredient list very carefully. Anything that simply says “protein” could be ground leftovers from meat packing plants. Those leftovers can include hair, nails, hooves, and other animal parts.

Be careful which protein powders or supplements you buy. Consumer Reports tested 15 high-protein drinks and found that many contained levels of toxic heavy metals. Here is an excerpt from the report:
Our investigation, including tests at an outside laboratory of 15 protein drinks, a review of government documents, and interviews with health and fitness experts and consumers, found most people already get enough protein, and there are far better and cheaper ways to add more if it’s needed.

Some protein drinks can even pose health risks, including exposure to potentially harmful heavy metals, if consumed frequently. All drinks in our tests had at least one sample containing one or more of the following contaminants: arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. Those metals can have toxic effects on several organs in the body.89

Again, read the ingredients carefully and buy ones that contain only organic whole vegetarian food.
Because of the emphasis by certain food industries for the need of protein in the diet, marketing the protein drink or shake market is an enormous money-making industry. Marketing for high-protein drinks is sharp, savvy, and targeted to bodybuilders, athletes, baby boomers, and pregnant women.

The advertising can say that their protein drinks build muscle or help shed unwanted pounds. People have the idea that if they consume more protein, their bodies will build more muscle, but lifting weights and exercising are what builds muscle.

Soy

Soy protein is a complete protein but can be very hard to digest. The Chinese did not eat unfermented soybeans, because they contain quantities of natural toxins or “anti-nutrients,” and are high in phytic acid. This means ingesting unfermented soy can prevent the body from absorbing other nutrients like calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and particularly protein. In China, soy was not used as a food until fermentation techniques were discovered in the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC).

When soy is fermented—as in miso, tempeh, or soy sauce—the soy nutrients are more digestible and easier to absorb. Unfermented Soy has been linked to gastric distress and pancreatic problems, including cancer, and it can impair our body’s uptake of amino acids.  It also contains goitrogens, which are known to suppress the functioning of the thyroid.

Most soy on the market today is from genetically modified (GM) seed. 91 percent of soybeans planted in the United States are GM, and the rate is rapidly growing throughout the world, according Dr. Gregory Damato.

Dr. Gregory Damato points out that “more than 95 percent of GM soy (and 75 percent of other GM crops) is engineered to tolerate glyphosate herbicide, the most common formulation of which is Roundup.”

Recent studies by French scientists on the Toxicity of Roundup and Glyphosate found this herbicide carcinogenic.
They found it:

1. Causes cell cycle dysregulation, which is a hall mark of tumor cells and human cancers.
2. Inhibits DNA synthesis in certain parts of the cell cycle—the cells’ reproductive process which underlies the growth and development of all living organisms.
3. Impedes the hatchings of sea urchins. (Sea urchins were used because they constitute an appropriate model for the identification of undesirable cellular and molecular targets of pollutants.) The delay was found to be dose dependent on the concentration of Roundup. The surfactant polyoxyethylene amine(POEA), another major component of Roundup, was also found to be highly toxic to the embryos when tested alone, and could therefore be a contributing factor.

These reasons are why I don’t eat soy if I can avoid it, or any other genetically modified food or non-organically grown food. I recommend reading more about glyphosate herbicide if you are eating non-certified organic foods.

Be aware that soy is added to tortillas, breads, fake meats, and many other foods, supposedly for the “health” benefit. In my opinion, it is really used as cheap filler.

Health and nutrition expert Dr. Joseph Mercola writes that the advertising industry has misled the public about the safety and health benefits of soy, as well as the widespread use of it in the Asian diet. He states: “A study of the history of soy use in Asia shows that the poor used it during times of extreme food shortage, and only when the soybeans were carefully prepared (e.g. by lengthy fermentation) to destroy the soy toxins.”

He goes on to say that, contrary to some reports in the West, it is not the usual practice in Asian countries to feed soy milk to infants.

A billion-dollar industry advertises soy as the answer to many health issues. Soy is frequently touted as the answer to women’s menopause problems, heart disease, and weight problems, as well as a great protein source. Be aware of this when you read food labels that refer to soy’s health benefits, even those that display an FDA approval statement that soy can help lower the risk of heart disease.

In 2000, two FDA employees, Daniel Doerge and Daniel Sheehan, were so worried about the danger of soy that they wrote a controversial letter to their employer, protesting the positive health claims for soy that the FDA was approving at the time.101.

They wrote: “There is abundant evidence that some of the isoflavones found in soy, including genistein and equol, a metabolite of daidzen, demonstrate toxicity in estrogen sensitive tissues and in the thyroid. This is true for a number of species, including humans. Additionally, isoflavones are inhibitors of the thyroid peroxidase which makes T3 and T4. Inhibition can be expected to generate thyroid abnormalities, including goiter and autoimmune thyroiditis. There exists a significant body of animal data that demonstrates goitrogenic and even carcinogenic effects of soy products. Moreover, there are significant reports of goitrogenic effects from soy consumption in human infants.”

Think carefully about the effects that soy can have on the thyroid, our master gland which affects almost all aspects of our health, and estrogen. Many doctors and nutritionists are soy proponents. Be careful and research this yourself if you are concerned.

Soy is touted as solution to menopause hormone imbalances. This is one of the reasons why so many doctors and older women were happy to embrace it. Soy and soy-based products contain isoflavones or phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogens. Soy is not the only food that contains phytoestrogens. There are other less controversial and more digestible foods with phytoestrogens you can include in your diet.
For men, eating soy isoflavones can significantly reduce testicular function and lower luteinizing hormone (LH)production, which is what signals the testicles to work.

A high soy intake which potentially lowers level of LH increases the probability of estrogen dominance in men, contributing to hair loss, swollen and cancerous prostates, and insulin resistance. Dr. Doris Rapp, MD, a leading pediatric allergist, asserts that environmental and food estrogens are responsible for the worldwide reduction in male fertility.

Soy consumption has been linked with cancer in adults, notably breast cancer, as I read in an article by Jim Rutz. He went on to say: That’s why the governments of Israel, the UK, France, and New Zealand are already cracking down hard on soy.

In sad contrast, 60 percent of the refined foods in US supermarkets now contain soy. Worse, soy use may double in the next few years because (last I heard) the out-of-touch medicrats in the FDA hierarchy are considering allowing manufacturers of cereal, energy bars, fake milk, fake yogurt, etc., to claim that “soy prevents cancer.” It doesn’t. . .

P.S.: Fermented soy sauce is fine. Unlike soy milk, it’s perfectly safe because it’s fermented, which changes its molecular structure. Miso, natto, and tempeh are also okay, but avoid tofu and soy milk.

Soy can create allergic reactions. In 1986, Dr. Stuart Berger, MD, placed soy among the top seven allergens, one of the “sinister seven.”

Finally, soy protein isolate, a by-product of soybean oil processing that is found in a huge number of vegan foods, is something to avoid completely.

The processing of soy protein isolate is done mostly in aluminum tanks that leach high levels of aluminum into the product. Then MSG, flavorings, preservatives, sweeteners, and synthetic chemicals are frequently added to help get rid of the “beany” taste and add more “meaty” flavor. In animal experiments, the test animals fed soy isolate developed enlarged organs, particularly the thyroid and the pancreas.

After the soybeans, which are mostly GM varieties, are crushed to extract the oil, the left-over soy “chunks” (which still contain fiber, water, some fat, and other carbohydrates) then undergo another extraction process that involves hexane—a neurotoxin that is also a substantial component in gasoline. The next step involves soaking these chunks in a chemical mixture (which commonly contains ammonia and hydrochloric acid) to help concentrate protein levels and achieve a sponge-like texture. Finally, the mixture is then spray-dried.

A regular, standard soybean contains 40 percent protein, while soy protein isolate is usually about 95 percent protein. Soy protein isolate can only be made in factories. Healthy, whole foods should be possible to make in a kitchen. You can make your own seitan (wheat meat) at home. You can make your own nut milk, rice milk or hemp milk at home with a blender and some whole-food ingredients. The only way to make soy protein isolate is by using extremely flammable and hazardous chemicals, like hexane, and extreme temperatures that you could not possibly obtain in a kitchen setting.

Hexane is not used in the production of organic soy protein isolate. For a list of which protein bars and soy burgers are made using hexane-extracted soy protein isolates and which aren’t, go to: www.cornucopia.org/hexane-guides/hexane_guide_bars.html.

As I researched soy, I came to seriously reconsider its use. When I first became a vegetarian, I used soy for many things. I used to feel that soy milk, soy beans, and other soy products were foods I should use. I learn something new every day. No one knows everything, so be open to new information.

I found some soy vegetarian alternative meats worked really well as transition foods from a meat-based diet. Some of them didn’t taste very good and were a huge waste of money, but a few were pretty good. I always looked for organic ones, but those were rare. I weaned myself off them. There are many more choices today that are organic and taste much better than what was available in 1988.

As I have learned more about soy, I always try to avoid it now. I do, however, use organic fermented soy sauce. I also use organic miso and tempeh occasionally. There are alternative organic misos now that are made with brown rice, garbanzo beans, and barley, and they taste terrific. I buy these instead of the soy variety.

In conclusion, if you are going to buy soy, buy certified organic and non-GMO soy because it won’t be from genetically modified seeds. Buy sprouted and/or fermented soy for a more digestible and less harmful soy protein, and avoid soy protein isolates.

Beans

Beans—including black beans, garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas), pinto beans, and kidney beans—are a great source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Beans are relatively inexpensive and easy to store in a dry, cool place for a fairly long time.

The fiber in beans has been shown to help lower cholesterol by binding with bile acids, which are used in making cholesterol. Fiber isn’t absorbed into the body. It passes out of the body, taking the bile with it. Beans also help prevent blood sugar levels from rising too quickly after a meal, making beans a good food choice for people with diabetes or hypoglycemia. Combining beans with whole-grain rice gives you all the essential amino acids.

A little-known and beneficial attribute of beans is that they contain the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which can detoxify sulfites. Sulfites are a common preservative used in many foods today. Many people are sensitive to sulfites, resulting in weight gain, headaches, and rapid heartbeat. Eating one cup of black beans can give you 172 percent of the daily value of the trace mineral molybdenum, which is the key component of sulfite oxidase.

The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry researched beans and found they are as rich in anthocyanin—an antioxidant compound—as cranberries, oranges, and grapes. In fact, black beans had approximately 10 times the amount found in oranges. The darker the bean, the higher the antioxidant properties were. Gram for gram, black beans had the highest levels of antioxidants. They descended in order of black, red, brown, yellow, and lastly white.

Here is a list of some top vegan protein sources:

• Almonds (1⁄4 c.) 12 grams
• Amaranth (31⁄2 oz.) 16 grams
• Baked beans (8 oz.) 11.5 grams
• Broccoli (31⁄2 oz.) 3.1 grams
• Brown rice (7 oz.) 4.4 grams
• Buckwheat (31⁄2 oz.) 12 grams
• Bulgur (1 c. cooked) 6 grams
• Cashews (1⁄4 c.) 5 grams
• Flax Seeds (1 tsp.) 6 grams
• Garbanzo beans (chickpeas) (7 oz.) 16 grams
• Hemp seeds (1 oz.) 11 grams
• Lentils (41⁄2 oz.) 9.1 grams
• Mediterranean pine nuts (1 oz.) 10 grams
• Mushrooms – cooked (1c.) 4 grams
• Muesli (21⁄2 oz.) 7.7 grams
• Nori seaweed (31⁄2 oz. dried) 35 grams
• Nutritional yeast (31⁄2 oz.) 50 grams
• Oatmeal (1 c.) 6 grams
• Peanuts (1 oz.) 7.3 grams
• Pine nuts (1 oz.) 6.8 grams
• Portabella mushroom (84 gm) 1.77 grams
• Potatoes (7 oz.) 2.8 grams
• Pumpkin seeds (raw) (1 oz.) 7 grams
• Sesame seeds (31⁄2 oz.) 19 grams
• Shitake mushroom (one 19-gm mushroom) .43 grams
• Spinach (fresh) (1 c.) 1 gram
• Spirulina (31⁄2 oz.) 68 grams
• Sunflower seeds (31⁄2 oz.) 24 grams
• Walnuts (1⁄4 c.) 25 grams
• Whole-grain bread (2 slices) 7 grams

The diet that works for me and my O blood type and lifestyle may not be the perfect diet for someone else. Try the various vegan diet choices that your heart tells you to try, and see what works. Some people’s diet choices may change over time along with age, environment, lifestyle, and circumstance.

Find what works for you, and listen to your own body. It will tell you the best choice of vegan food for you. You are the best guide and judge of your body and your health. For many of us in transition with new food choices or life in general, it takes baby steps. Some people will find that eating a little cheese or eggs now and then makes the transition easier. Later, they may be able to cut those foods out completely.

In conclusion, remember to listen to your own body, provide the quality combinations of fresh, whole, nutrient dense, organic food.

When it comes to choosing the right vegan diet, a person should see how his or her body reacts to certain foods and lifestyles. It is all about balance. Becoming a vegan is a journey. Simply start the journey, and see where it takes you!

If you are interested in finding out more about eating a healthy plant based diet. You can sign up for Nancy’s free monthly newsletter on her website http://www.organichealthylife.com, 

Nancy Addison’s 6 international award-winning books can be seen on her author page on Amazon. Here is the link: Author.to/nancyaddison

This article is an excerpt from Nancy Addison’s multiple award-winning book, How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition.

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This may surprise you and may go against what you have heard for so many years, but according to Mladen Golubic, MD, PhD of The Cleveland Heart Clinic: The more protein—especially animal protein—one eats, the higher the risk of different chronic diseases.

In fact, a recent study was done with 6,000 people between the ages of 50 and 65, who reported eating high creature sourced protein (for example: beef, pork, lamb, fowl, fish, dairy, and eggs). This dietary survey showed that these people not only had a 75 percent increase in dying from ANY cause, but also a quadruple increase in the chance of dying from cancer and a quintuple greater increase in the chance of dying from diabetes, when compared with the low protein intake group!

It is important to note that these associations were either greatly lessened or completely eliminated, if the proteins were vegan (plant) based. The composition of complex amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, that is derived from animals, acts very differently than the amino acids from plant protein. What we need are amino acids, not the proteins themselves.

In this article, (I also going into detail on nutrition for vegetarians/vegans in my award-winning cookbook, How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition) I am going to cut through some of this information and provide some research and answers that may help you with a healthier eating plan that could really make an impact on your health and well-being.

Protein is made up of amino acids, which are crucial for building and maintaining cells and tissues. The body uses amino acids to make hemoglobin and insulin. Protein (amino acid) is also essential for maintaining healthy sugar levels in the blood, especially when eating carbohydrates.

Yet ideas about how much and what type of protein we need have changed over time. Even today, experts’ opinions vary. What is important is that you make the right diet choices for your individual needs. Let’s look at all the research to date.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, Russell Henry Chittenden, the father of biochemistry, was disturbed that physicians were recommending high-protein diets of 135 grams a day. He thought this was wrong and set out to test this dietary theory. Chittenden began by doing a study on himself using a low-protein diet. He lost weight, had more energy, got rid of his arthritic joint pain, and was, in his opinion, healthier than he had been on a high-protein diet.

He began testing colleagues, students, and athletes at Yale University. On the low-protein diet, they all had more energy, felt better, and actually increased their performance ability by more than 35 percent. In 1904, Chittenden concluded that “35–50 grams of protein a day was adequate for adults, and individuals could maintain their health and fitness on this amount. Studies over the past century have consistently confirmed Professor Chittenden’s findings.”  The current goverment recommended daily allowance of protein for adults is 46–56 grams per day.

Some studies say that the amount and type of protein a person should eat depends upon his or her blood type. Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo and Catherine Whitney’s book Eat Right 4 Your Type looks at the connection between blood type, diet, and health. My blood type is O, as is my daughter’s. The book says that “O blood types are meant to thrive best on a high protein (red meat) and low carbohydrate diet.”

I have been vegetarian for 31 years, and my daughter has been a vegetarian for her whole life of 32 years. We seem to do quite well on a vegetarian (mostly vegan) diet, but we do make sure we consume enough protein-rich plant foods like beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, whole-grain rice, and quinoa, and have a good amount of healthy fats in our diet.

It is up to you to decide if this theory is right for you.

Many athletes today are filling their bodies with protein-rich food, thinking it will make them stronger and their muscles bigger.

According to the Vegetarian Resource Group: Athletes used to eat thick steaks before competition because they thought it would improve their performance. Protein supplements are sold at health food stores. This concern about protein is misplaced. Although protein is certainly an essential nutrient which plays many key roles in the way our bodies function, we do not need huge quantities of it. In reality, we need small amounts of protein. Only one calorie out of every ten we take in needs to come from protein. Athletes do not need much more protein than the general public.

This is backed up in an AARP article (May 22,  2009, “Eat the Right Kinds Of Protein: Don’t Overdo Protein; Do it Right. Here’s How) by tennis athlete Martina Navratilova (a vegetarian), who says: “On days that I work out, I’ll have a little protein with some carbs after exercising. This combo speeds up the manufacture of new glycogen (the carbohydrate that is stored in muscle and supplies energy) and elevates key hormones in the body that are involved in muscle repair and growth. In addition, the snack amplifies the fuel I get from carbs.”

This fits in with what I have read from other top athletes like Brendan Brazier, two-time Canadian 50K ultra marathon champion. He thinks recovery time from working out is really the most critical factor for success as an athlete, rather than protein intake. He lives and thrives on a 100 percent plant-based diet.

Many vegetarian proteins are a combination of carbohydrates and protein. You can find some great information about protein and the vegan diet on the vegan athlete website. Our bodies are all different, and our blood types are different. You need to find what works best for you.

There are several myths about protein. For instance, in the 1971 book Diet for a Small Planet, Frances Moore Lappé wrote that plants contained “incomplete proteins” within adequate amounts of specific essential amino acids, in order for them to meet the dietary needs of people. She emphasized the need to combine vegetable-based foods to obtain the complete amino acid complexes needed for optimum health when choosing not to consume animal protein.

However, according to Dr. John McDougall, Lappé did not understand the scientific research on human protein needs and the sufficiency of plant-based foods. Dr. McDougall says that plant combining “is unnecessary and implies that it is difficult to obtain ‘complete’ proteins from vegetables without detailed nutritional knowledge. Because of her complicated and incorrect ideas, many people are frightened away from vegetable-based diets.”

Thankfully such myths are slowly but surely being dismissed as untrue. The American Dietetic Association (ADA)revised its position statement on vegetarian diets and now agrees that well-planned vegetarian diets are “a healthy, nutritionally adequate dietary practice for all stages of life.”

As for the amount of protein we eat, it is not practical or very accurate to measure it on a daily basis. 0.8 g/kg is generous. Guidelines from the World Health Organization, specify that 0.5 g/kg is adequate for good health. Make sure you get enough calories from unprocessed whole foods of plant origin and you will get enough protein. You should eat a variety of legumes (beans of any type, shape, or color, including soybeans, lentils, and peas), and 100 percent whole-grain products and vegetables. Do not worry about getting enough proteins. If you get enough calories from these plant-based wholefoods, you are getting enough protein.

As for other nutrition, there is not a single nutrient (with the possible exception of vitamin B12) that you cannot get from plants. In fact, meat or fish do not have any dietary fiber, and only minuscule amounts of beneficial compounds that are not technically essential

nutrients. However, these essential nutrients are richly present in organically grown, non-GMO plants and seem quite beneficial for human health.

Dr. Andrew Weil, a prominent expert in the health field, also addressed this subject: You may have heard that vegetable sources of protein are incomplete and become complete only when correctly combined. Research has discredited that notion, so you don’t have to worry that you won’t get enough usable protein if you don’t put together some magical combination of foods at each meal.

Whether or not you’re a vegetarian, I recommend that you divide your daily calories as follows: 40–50 percent from carbohydrates (including vegetables, fruit, whole grains, starchy roots and tubers, and legumes), 30 percent from fat, and 20–30 percent from protein, which amounts to between 100 and 150 grams on a 2,000 calorie-a-day diet.

Dr. Weil, actually recommends more protein than Dr. Chittenden. In my opinion, you have to decide what type and amount of protein works best for you.

Dennis Gordon, MEd, RD, voices the same opinion as Dr. Weil and Dr. McDougall. In the article “Vegetable Proteins Can Stand Alone,” Gordon wrote: Complementing proteins is not necessary with vegetable proteins. The myth that vegetable source proteins need to be complemented is similar to the myths that persist about sugar making one’s blood glucose go up faster than starch does. These myths have great staying power despite there being no evidence to support them and plenty to refute them.

Protein myths have been around for almost a century, but beans, seeds, leafy greens, legumes, and grains are all sources of healthy vegan protein. In fact, leafy greens are among the best sources of protein. For example, 45 percent of spinach is protein.

Types of Vegetarian Protein Sources

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are perfect foods because they are a combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrate. They contain delicate polyunsaturated fatty acids that can become rancid shortly after being shelled, so store them in a tightly sealed container (preferably glass) in the refrigerator. Nuts that come from tropical climates can contain high levels of fungal mycotoxins, which result from improper storage.

Almost all nuts and seeds also contain certain compounds that include enzyme inhibitors and phytic acid, which can prevent the body from absorbing some nutrients. To help diminish the phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors, and to make them more digestible, place them in a glass or steel bowl and soak them for 12–18 hours in non-chlorinated water and a little bit of whole sea salt. If desired, you can dehydrate or roast them in the oven at a low temperature. Eat them within a few days.

When buying nuts and seeds, look for products that are sprouted or have been soaked.

You may want to have your physician check your mineral levels if you have a diet high in nuts and seeds.

Pine nuts (pignoli) are nature’s only source of pinolenic acid, which helps diminish your appetite. They have the highest concentration of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that aids the liver in eliminating harmful triglycerides from our body, which helps protect our heart. Pine nuts are also packed with 3 mg of iron per one-ounce serving and are rich in Vitamin B1 and Vitamin B3, manganese, copper, magnesium, molybdenum, and zinc, as well as being a source of Vitamin B2, Vitamin E, and potassium.

There are more than 29 varieties of pine nuts. Most of the pine nuts in US grocery stores are from trees grown in China, Mexico, and Korea. All pine nuts are nutritious, but the most nutrient-dense are Mediterranean pine nuts, which come from the Stone Pine (Pinus pinea, or Umbrella Pine) native to Portugal, Spain, and Italy. Mediterranean pine nuts are lower in calories, have a great ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 essential fatty acids, have a higher level of phytosterols, (which are known to lower cholesterol), and have a greater protein content than other varieties of pine nut. Pine nuts are wonderful to have as a snack or add to a meat substitute, protein drink, or smoothie.

Hemp seeds are actually nuts. They contain significant amounts of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, as well as protein. They also contain significant amounts of Vitamin E, which is important for the thyroid gland. Hemp seeds are seen as an excellent food source because of their great combination of high-quality oil, or good fat (44 percent), protein (33 percent), and fiber (12 percent).

Hemp protein contains all the complex amino acid proteins, and is extremely similar to the type of protein in animal foods. It has a wonderful digestibility and appears to be free of the anti-nutrients found in soy. Hemp seeds deliver a good source of readily absorbable, nutrient-dense protein that can be readily utilized by the body.88

Almonds are actually seeds. They are a powerhouse of nutrients, including manganese, magnesium, copper, Vitamin B2, and phosphorus, and are a great source of protein and fiber. One quarter cup of almonds has 12 grams of protein. That is more than twice the amount of protein in one egg. However, almonds contain 1,800 more Omega 6 fatty acids than Omega 3 fatty acids. This can seriously throw off the balance of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids in the body. For that reason, I tend to use more whole-grain rice or coconut milk these days than almond milk.

Walnuts are especially good for the vegetarian diet. They are high in protein; are a very good source of manganese, copper, tryptophan, and Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids; and have a fairly good ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids (four Omega 6s to one Omega 3) with only eight percent saturated fat.

Cashews are a very good source of copper, magnesium, tryptophan, and phosphorus. Copper is necessary to maintain healthy bones and connective tissues. Cashews have 117 Omega 6 fatty acids to one Omega 3, and have 12.5 percent saturated fat. I love cashews, but I try to combine them with other nuts and seeds when I eat them to help balance out the Omegas and saturated fats.

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein and fiber, as well as minerals, including zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and manganese. Pumpkin seeds have 117 Omega 6 fatty acids to one Omega 3 and have a saturated fat content of 14 percent. Interestingly, pumpkin seeds are terrific at helping the body get rid of parasites.

I am a certified wildlife rehabilitator, and I use pumpkin seeds on a regular basis when feeding the wild animals, I rehabilitate. I grind the seeds and immediately add them to the animals’ food, and it is amazing to me how many tape worms and other types of parasites come out in their bowel movements. Because of this, I use pumpkin seeds frequently, in a freshly ground form, in my own foods.

Protein Supplements

Sometimes vegetarians feel they are just not getting enough food, protein, or sustenance. They probably need concentrated nutrients from protein and carbohydrates, along with some good fat. When the body is getting a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fat from nutrient-dense, whole food, full of live enzymes, the body will feel nutritionally satisfied.

Studies have shown that after an intense workout, it is helpful to replenish your glycogen by having some carbohydrates combined with some protein, which appears to support muscle. The fat tells the body how to utilize the protein and carbohydrates. When I use a meal replacement or protein powder, I add about a tablespoon of good fat to the mixture, usually coconut oil, flax seed oil, avocado oil or safflower oil. Sometimes, I’ll add a combination of two or three of them.

If you choose to use a protein supplement, I recommend using one that contains protein that is organic, vegan, gluten-free, raw, and whole-grain. Protein supplements made from sprouted seeds, nuts, whole grains, whole-grain rice, hemp seeds, legumes, peas, and beans are some of my favorites. When buying protein supplements, make sure they aren’t mystery protein by reading the ingredient list very carefully. Anything that simply says “protein” could be ground leftovers from meat packing plants. Those leftovers can include hair, nails, hooves, and other animal parts.

Be careful which protein powders or supplements you buy. Consumer Reports tested 15 high-protein drinks and found that many contained levels of toxic heavy metals. Here is an excerpt from the report:

Our investigation, including tests at an outside laboratory of 15 protein drinks, a review of government documents, and interviews with health and fitness experts and consumers, found most people already get enough protein, and there are far better and cheaper ways to add more if it’s needed. Some protein drinks can even pose health risks, including exposure to potentially harmful heavy metals, if consumed frequently. All drinks in our tests had at least one sample containing one or more of the following contaminants: arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. Those metals can have toxic effects on several organs in the body.89

Again, read the ingredients carefully and buy ones that contain only organic whole vegetarian food.

Because of the emphasis by certain food industries for the need of protein in the diet, marketing the protein drink or shake market is an enormous money-making industry. Marketing for high-protein drinks is sharp, savvy, and targeted to bodybuilders, athletes, baby boomers, and pregnant women.

The advertising can say that their protein drinks build muscle or help shed unwanted pounds. People have the idea that if they consume more protein, their bodies will build more muscle, but lifting weights and exercising are what builds muscle.

Soy

Soy protein is a complete protein but can be very hard to digest. The Chinese did not eat unfermented soybeans, because they contain quantities of natural toxins or “anti-nutrients,” and are high in phytic acid. This means ingesting unfermented soy can prevent the body from absorbing other nutrients like calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and particularly protein. In China, soy was not used as a food until fermentation techniques were discovered in the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC).

When soy is fermented—as in miso, tempeh, or soy sauce—the soy nutrients are more digestible and easier to absorb. Unfermented Soy has been linked to gastric distress and pancreatic problems, including cancer, and it can impair our body’s uptake of amino acids.  It also contains goitrogens, which are known to suppress the functioning of the thyroid.

Most soy on the market today is from genetically modified (GM) seed. 91 percent of soybeans planted in the United States are GM, and the rate is rapidly growing throughout the world, according to Natural News newsletter.

Dr. Gregory Damato points out that “more than 95 percent of GM soy (and 75 percent of other GM crops) is engineered to tolerate glyphosate herbicide, the most common formulation of which is Roundup.”

Recent studies by French scientists on the Toxicity of Roundup and Glyphosate found this herbicide carcinogenic.

They found it:

1. Causes cell cycle dysregulation, which is a hall mark of tumor cells and human cancers.
2. Inhibits DNA synthesis in certain parts of the cell cycle—the cells’ reproductive process which underlies the growth and development of all living organisms.
3. Impedes the hatchings of sea urchins. (Sea urchins were used because they constitute an appropriate model for the identification of undesirable cellular and molecular targets of pollutants.) The delay was found to be dose dependent on the concentration of Roundup. The surfactant polyoxyethylene amine(POEA), another major component of Roundup, was also found to be highly toxic to the embryos when tested alone, and could therefore be a contributing factor.

These reasons are why I don’t eat soy if I can avoid it, or any other genetically modified food or non-organically grown food. I recommend reading more about glyphosate herbicide if you are eating non-certified organic foods.

Be aware that soy is added to tortillas, breads, fake meats, and many other foods, supposedly for the “health” benefit. In my opinion, it is really used as cheap filler.

Health and nutrition expert Dr. Joseph Mercola writes that the advertising industry has misled the public about the safety and health benefits of soy, as well as the widespread use of it in the Asian diet. He states: “A study of the history of soy use in Asia shows that the poor used it during times of extreme food shortage, and only when the soybeans were carefully prepared (e.g. by lengthy fermentation) to destroy the soy toxins.”  He goes on to say that, contrary to some reports in the West, it is not the usual practice in Asian countries to feed soy milk to infants.

A billion-dollar industry advertises soy as the answer to many health issues. Soy is frequently touted as the answer to women’s menopause problems, heart disease, and weight problems, as well as a great protein source. Be aware of this when you read food labels that refer to soy’s health benefits, even those that display an FDA approval statement that soy can help lower the risk of heart disease. In 2000, two FDA employees, Daniel Doerge and Daniel Sheehan, were so worried about the danger of soy that they wrote a controversial letter to their employer, protesting the positive health claims for soy that the FDA was approving at the time.101

They wrote:

“There is abundant evidence that some of the isoflavones found in soy, including genistein and equol, a metabolite of daidzen, demonstrate toxicity in estrogen sensitive tissues and in the thyroid. This is true for a number of species, including humans. Additionally, isoflavones are inhibitors of the thyroid peroxidase which makes T3 and T4. Inhibition can be expected to generate thyroid abnormalities, including goiter and autoimmune thyroiditis. There exists a significant body of animal data that demonstrates goitrogenic and even carcinogenic effects of soy products. Moreover, there are significant reports of goitrogenic effects from soy consumption in human infants.”

Think carefully about the effects that soy can have on the thyroid, our master gland which affects almost all aspects of our health, and estrogen. Many doctors and nutritionists are soy proponents. Be careful and research this yourself if you are concerned.

Soy is touted as solution to menopause hormone imbalances. This is one of the reasons why so many doctors and older women were happy to embrace it. Soy and soy-based products contain isoflavones or phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogens. Soy is not the only food that contains phytoestrogens. There are other less controversial and more digestible foods with phytoestrogens you can include in your diet.

For men, eating soy isoflavones can significantly reduce testicular function and lower luteinizing hormone (LH)production, which is what signals the testicles to work. A high soy intake which potentially lowers level of LH increases the probability of estrogen dominance in men, contributing to hair loss, swollen and cancerous prostates, and insulin resistance. Dr. Doris Rapp, MD, a leading pediatric allergist, asserts that environmental and food estrogens are responsible for the worldwide reduction in male fertility.

Soy consumption has been linked with cancer in adults, notably breast cancer, as I read in an article by Jim Rutz. He went on to say:

That’s why the governments of Israel, the UK, France, and New Zealand are already cracking down hard on soy. . .

In sad contrast, 60 percent of the refined foods in US supermarkets now contain soy. Worse, soy use may double in the next few years because (last I heard) the out-of-touch medicrats in the FDA hierarchy are considering allowing manufacturers of cereal, energy bars, fake milk, fake yogurt, etc., to claim that “soy prevents cancer.” It doesn’t. . .

P.S.: Soy sauce is fine. Unlike soy milk, it’s perfectly safe because it’s fermented, which changes its molecular structure. Miso, natto, and tempeh are also okay, but avoid tofu and soy milk.

Soy can create allergic reactions. In 1986, Dr. Stuart Berger, MD, placed soy among the top seven allergens, one of the “sinister seven.”

Finally, soy protein isolate, a by-product of soybean oil processing that is found in a huge number of vegan foods, is something to avoid completely.

The processing of soy protein isolate is done mostly in aluminum tanks that leach high levels of aluminum into the product. Then MSG, flavorings, preservatives, sweeteners, and synthetic chemicals are frequently added to help get rid of the “beany” taste and add more “meaty” flavor. In animal experiments, the test animals fed soy isolate developed enlarged organs, particularly the thyroid and the pancreas.

After the soybeans, which are mostly GM varieties, are crushed to extract the oil, the left-over soy “chunks” (which still contain fiber, water, some fat, and other carbohydrates) then undergo another extraction process that involves hexane—a neurotoxin that is also a substantial component in gasoline.

The next step involves soaking these chunks in a chemical mixture (which commonly contains ammonia and hydrochloric acid) to help concentrate protein levels and achieve a sponge-like texture. Finally, the mixture is then spray-dried.

A regular, standard soybean contains 40 percent protein, while soy protein isolate is usually about 95 percent protein.

Soy protein isolate can only be made in factories. Healthy, whole foods should be possible to make in a kitchen. You can make your own seitan (wheat meat) at home. You can make your own nut milk, rice milk or hemp milk at home with a blender and some whole-food ingredients. The only way to make soy protein isolate is by using extremely flammable and hazardous chemicals, like hexane, and extreme temperatures that you could not possibly obtain in a kitchen setting.

Hexane is not used in the production of organic soy protein isolate. For a list of which protein bars and soy burgers are made using hexane-extracted soy protein isolates and which aren’t, go to: www.cornucopia.org/hexane-guides/hexane_guide_bars.html.

As I researched soy, I came to seriously reconsider its use. When I first became a vegetarian, I used soy for many things. I used to feel that soy milk, soy beans, and other soy products were foods I should use. I learn something new every day. No one knows everything, so be open to new information.

I found some soy vegetarian alternative meats worked really well as transition foods from a meat-based diet. Some of them didn’t taste very good and were a huge waste of money, but a few were pretty good. I always looked for organic ones, but those were rare. I weaned myself off them. There are many more choices today that are organic and taste much better than what was available in 1988.

As I have learned more about soy, I always try to avoid it now. I do, however, use organic fermented soy sauce. I also use organic miso and tempeh occasionally. There are alternative organic misos now that are made with brown rice, garbanzo beans, and barley, and they taste terrific. I buy these instead of the soy variety.

In conclusion, if you are going to buy soy, buy certified organic soy because it won’t be from genetically modified seeds. Buy sprouted and/or fermented soy for a more digestible and less harmful soy protein, and avoid soy protein isolates.

Beans

Beans—including black beans, garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas), pinto beans, and kidney beans—are a great source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Beans are relatively inexpensive and easy to store in a dry, cool place for a fairly long time.

The fiber in beans has been shown to help lower cholesterol by binding with bile acids, which are used in making cholesterol. Fiber isn’t absorbed into the body. It passes out of the body, taking the bile with it. Beans also help prevent blood sugar levels from rising too quickly after a meal, making beans a good food choice for people with diabetes or hypoglycemia. Combining beans with whole-grain rice gives you all the essential amino acids.

A little-known and beneficial attribute of beans is that they contain the enzyme sulfite oxidase, which can detoxify sulfites. Sulfites are a common preservative used in many foods today. Many people are sensitive to sulfites, resulting in weight gain, headaches, and rapid heartbeat. Eating one cup of black beans can give you 172 percent of the daily value of the trace mineral molybdenum, which is the key component of sulfite oxidase.

The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry researched beans and found they are as rich in anthocyanin—an antioxidant compound—as cranberries, oranges, and grapes. In fact, black beans had approximately 10 times the amount found in oranges. The darker the bean, the higher the antioxidant properties were. Gram for gram, black beans had the highest levels of antioxidants. They descended in order of black, red, brown, yellow, and lastly white.

Vegan Protein Sources:

Almonds (1⁄4 c.) 12 grams

Amaranth (31⁄2 oz.) 16 grams

Baked beans (8 oz.) 11.5 grams

Broccoli (31⁄2 oz.) 3.1 grams

Brown rice (7 oz.) 4.4 grams

Buckwheat (31⁄2 oz.) 12 grams

Bulgur (1 c. cooked) 6 grams

Cashews (1⁄4 c.) 5 grams

Garbanzo beans (chickpeas) (7 oz.) 16 grams

Hemp seeds (1 oz.) 11 grams

Lentils (41⁄2 oz.) 9.1 grams

Mediterranean pine nuts (1 oz.) 10 grams

Muesli (21⁄2 oz.) 7.7 grams

Nori seaweed (31⁄2 oz. dried) 35 grams

Nutritional yeast (31⁄2 oz.) 50 grams

Oatmeal (1 c.) 6 grams

Peanuts (1 oz.) 7.3 grams

Pine nuts (1 oz.) 6.8 grams

Porridge (6 oz.) 2.4 grams

Potatoes (7 oz.) 2.8 grams

Pumpkin seeds (raw) (1 oz.) 7 grams

Sesame seeds (31⁄2 oz.) 19 grams

Spinach (fresh) (1 c.) 1 gram

Spirulina (31⁄2 oz.) 68 grams

Sunflower seeds (31⁄2 oz.) 24 grams

Tofu (5 oz.) 10.3 grams

Walnuts (1⁄4 c.) 25 grams

Whole-grain bread (2 slices) 7 grams

When it comes to choosing the right vegan diet, a person should see how his or her body reacts to certain foods and lifestyles. It is all about balance.

The diet that works for me and my O blood type and lifestyle may not be the perfect diet for someone else. Try the various vegan diet choices that your heart tells you to try, and see what works. Some people’s diet choices may change over time along with age, environment, lifestyle, and circumstance.

Find what works for you, and listen to your own body. It will tell you the best choice of vegan food for you. You are the best guide and judge of your body and your health. For many of us in transition with new food choices or life in general, it takes baby steps. Some people will find that eating a little cheese or eggs now and then makes the transition easier. Later, they may be able to cut those foods out completely.

Becoming a vegan is a journey. Simply start the journey, and see where it takes you!

If you are interested in finding out more about eating a healthy plant based diet. You may like my award-winning, best-selling cookbook, How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition. Click Here for the link.

By Nancy Addison HHC, AADP

copyright@nancyaddison2017

For more information go to www.organichealthylife.com or find Nancy Addison’s award-winning books on Amazon. Click here for the link.

The information from Nancy Addison and Organic Healthy Lifestyle LLC is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this email, article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

The post The Best Vegetarian Protein Sources appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

• Heart disease
• Colorectal, ovarian, and breast cancers
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

This is because a healthy vegetarian diet is commonly high in organic, fresh, whole vegetables and fruits, low in unhealthy fat, and high in fiber. Quality is important. For an optimum vegetarian/vegan diet, you want to buy certified organic, non-GMO, fresh food, and to avoid trans-fats, cottonseed oil, canola oil, soy, artificial sweeteners, high fructose sweeteners, white refined carbohydrates, processed, microwaved, pasteurized, radiated and fast foods. (I expand on the best ways to live a healthy lifestyle in my award-winning book, How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2^nd edition.)

Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., former president of the medical staff at the Cleveland Clinic, writes that you can reverse heart disease with no drugs and only a plant-based diet. He bases this conclusion on the groundbreaking results of his 20- year nutritional study. Backed by solid scientific evidence, he argues that we can end the heart disease epidemic simply by changing what we eat. Dr. Esselstyn recommends a plant-based, oil-free diet that he says can prevent heart disease, stop its progress, and even reverse its effects.

The late Walter Kempner, MD founded the Rice Diet. He advocated a diet of rice, fruit, and vegetables on the basis that it has the power to do miraculous things for people and help them gain back their health. He treated hundreds of people at Duke University, where he prescribed a diet of rice, vegetables, and fruit that reversed hypertension, diabetic eye changes, heart failure, kidney failure, and obesity.

Dr. T. Colin Campbell, PhD, professor emeritus at Cornell University and co-author of The China Study, the most comprehensive human nutrition study to date, advocates a plant-based diet for optimum health. I was fortunate to be part of Dr. Campbell’s class at Cornell University, where he told us: Plant-based eating is a superior way of eating. Benefits of eating this way: Live longer, look and feel younger, have more energy, lose weight, lowers blood cholesterol, prevents and even reverses heart disease, lowers your risk of prostate, breast and other cancers, preserves your eyesight in your later years, prevents and treat diabetes, avoid surgery, vastly decreases the need for pharmaceutical drugs, helps keep bones strong, avoid impotence, avoid stroke, prevents kidney stones, keeps your baby from getting type 2 diabetes, alleviates constipation, lowers your blood pressure, avoid Alzheimer’s, beats arthritis and more.

Dr. Campbell discussed studies he had done on the diseases that arise in populations when meat protein is introduced into the diet. He continued: “My early research gave me the understanding that animal protein, when tested experimentally, was substantially different from plant protein in its ability to promote tumor development. It turned out that animal protein had its effect by operating through a constellation of integrative mechanisms. The division between animal and plant foods was a signpost of a division of the kinds of foods having an effect on cancer.”

“Dr. Dean Ornish in California, and Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr. in Ohio, during the mid l980’s, each separately initiated studies of plant-based nutrition as treatment for patients severely ill with coronary artery disease. Their goal was to remove every last morsel of animal food, dairy, processed flour, and oils that were causing the disease, and to eat a diet of vegetables, fruit, legumes and whole grains.

In all compliant patients, results were prompt and enduring. Angina heart pain diminished or disappeared as cholesterol levels promptly lowered, and both physicians found that x-rays of the hearts’ arteries confirmed the disease could be reversed. Dr. Ornish proved this after one year of treatment. Dr. Esselstyn showed the same at 5 years, and reported his results again at 12, 16, and finally beyond 21 years in his recently released book, Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease. Dr. Esselstyn is particularly pleased with a smaller subset of patients who were told by expert cardiologists in 1986 they had less than a year to live, and all of whom are alive 21 years later.”

One thing I’ve learned through research, is that people with heart disease, frequently have diabetes as well. It’s common for a person to actually die from a heart attack, without even knowing they were diabetic. A plant-based diet can help with diabetes as well.

In Dr. Campbell’s class on plant-based nutrition, I learned of many studies that prove it is possible to be healthy or overcome illness on a plant-based diet. Recently, one study conducted by a team of American and Japanese researchers showed that people who have diabetes can vastly improve their health by eating an entirely plant-based diet.

More than 100 million people today have diabetes or pre-diabetes. The study’s findings agree with my experience. Working with people who have diabetes, I have found they show remarkable improvement in their health and well-being from consuming a plant-based and almost completely raw food diet. For that study, the researchers also undertook a new meta-analysis—which is considered the highest level of scientific evidence—in which they compared six significant prior research studies.

The researchers found a plant-based diet significantly improved blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes, and specifically in a key indicator of blood sugar control called hemoglobin A1c. The participants’ results improved as much as 1.2 points, which was greater than the effect of typical oral diabetes medicines.

The study also combined the results of all of the available studies. It indicated the benefits of excluding dairy (including cheese), eggs, and meat from the diet was as much as 0.7 points in some studies, averaging 0.4 points overall. Participants in most of these studies were not required to reduce their calorie or carbohydrate consumption.

The plant-based diet goes way back in time. It was recorded in the sixth century by the Greeks. Today, many people are switching to a vegan, vegetarian, or plant-based diet for health, environmental, or ethical reasons.

Many people throughout the ages have chosen to be vegetarian: Pythagoras, Aristotle, Plato, Leonardo da Vinci, Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein, Thomas Edison, George Bernard Shaw, Mohandas Gandhi, Paul, Linda, and Stella McCartney, Carl Lewis, Hank Aaron, Mike Tyson, Martina Navratilova, Doris Day, Danny DeVito, Alec Baldwin, Joan Baez, Ellen DeGeneres, Larry Hagman, Linda Gray, Michael Bolton, Mary Tyler Moore, Joaquin Phoenix, Dave Scott (six-time Ironman triathlon winner), Brendan Brazier (two-time Canadian 50K ultramarathon champion), and the list goes on and on. In this group of enlightened minds and great talents, there is a common bond. Veganism and vegetarianism is a choice. So if you make this change, you will be in good company!

One thing that is clear, is that the human body was not designed for consuming meat. Humans don’t have the correct teeth for tearing. Human saliva isn’t as acidic as carnivores. Human digestive juices are not acidic or strong enough to break down meat well on an ongoing basis. Because our intestinal tract is long and curvy, undigested meat can stay in the intestine too long. It can putrefy and rot in the intestines, allowing toxins and acid to build up. This creates inflammation and disease. This is one reason there is such a high rate of colon cancer, as well as digestion and intestinal tract problems.

One thing I have found that helps reduce cellular damage and oxidative stress is a supplement called Protandim. It can help reduce oxidative stress by 40% in 30 days. It’s been nominated for two Nobel Prizes for Medicine and had over 26 peer-reviewed medical papers written about it. 3 of those studies are concerning the benefits of this supplement for the heart. ABC did a primetime update on this supplement to show it’s benefits for aging and overall health.

People ask me about statin drugs frequently. They can cause cellular damage and deplete the necessary nutrients in the body. I really think that getting healthy in a natural holistic way is a safer alternative.

I’ve learned that everyone needs to find the diet that works best for them, and to find balance in their life. I also know that the quality of the food we eat is vital. From my studies and research, I believe an organic, plant-based diet can greatly benefit your health, and even heal your body.

copyright@nancyaddison2017

For more information go to www.organichealthylife.com or find Nancy’s award-winning books on Amazon. Click here for the link.

The information from Nancy Addison and Organic Healthy Lifestyle LLC is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this email, article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. I make no claims about healing anything.

The post Things You Need To Know About Reversing Heart Disease Holistically appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Holiday foods often involve a number of rich, savory foods, creamy dips and fried foods. And yet, these foods don’t always make our body feel at it’s best. So, here are a few ingredient or food choice tips that can make our dishes healthier to share with beloved family and friends.

A potato dish can be made with sweet or purple potatoes in place of white potatoes. Use a high quality, organic butter, or use organic ghee or coconut oil as the healthy fat for mashed potatoes or when baking fries. Sweet potatoes are delicious and high in fiber and beta-carotene.

For a healthy stuffing, try making one with organic sprouted rice or even wild rice. Then, bake your stuffing in a separate dish instead of cooking it inside the turkey (where it can absorb a high amount of high saturated fat from the meat.) Also, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Doing both of these things allow the vegetarian or vegan diners to be able to enjoy that dish as well.

When making cornbread stuffing, purchase the non-GMO, organic cornmeal (which is free of the bT toxin). If you are feeling brave, try using blue cornmeal, which is about 30 percent higher in protein and has more zinc and iron than white or yellow corn.

When preparing creature foods, try using a little orange juice and coconut oil to add moisture, and try baking it instead of frying it. If you are baking, frying or sautéing anything, use organic, pure coconut oil in place of lard, vegetable oil or a trans-fat like Crisco. It handles heat well and has fantastic health benefits.

For other types of animal, fish or fowl, you can grill, broil, or sauté them in a little coconut oil. After you remove them from the heat, you can drizzle some pure, organic, extra virgin olive oil on them and serve with lemon juice or a lemon juice vinaigrette. When dining, choose skinless, white meat pieces, and then add just a tiny bit of gravy.

Now for dessert, try making a pumpkin pie! You can make a whole sprouted grain crust yourself or you can find a whole grain ready-made crust at the store, and make my cashew crème recipe as the whipped cream for the topping. (Recipe is on page 185 in my award winning cookbook,  How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition.) I also love having a simple pitted date as a sweet treat or dessert. It’s just fruit, and it is a healthier choice.

Try using non-dairy milk in your recipes or for your coffee creamer. If you want it to be sweeter, blend the milk (like the unsweetened, vanilla coconut or hemp milk) with a little extra added vanilla or maple extract in a blender and add some pitted dates (I soak them in water to make them softer, so they will crème up easier) and voilà! You have a healthier version of a sweet, holiday creamer for your coffee or desserts.

When making or serving snacks, try an easy dip option such as a healthy high-protein hummus or nutritious guacamole. Cutting some cucumber, red bell pepper or celery to use as the dipping chips is also a great choice! If you want to serve crackers or chips, try using a whole grain, sprouted, organic version or an organic sweet potato chip or cracker. (Late July is a good brand for chips and Mary’s Gone Cracker’s is my favorite cracker these days.)

For additional snacks that are easy for travel or on the go, try combinations of organic, sprouted nuts, sprouted seeds, olives, pitted dates, raisins, dry fruits, kale chips and coconut chips.

Here are some easy substitutions I use frequently: 1. unsweetened cashew yogurt in place of sour cream, 2. hummus or mashed avocado instead of mayonnaise for sandwiches, 3. unsweetened vanilla coconut, hemp or cashew milk in place of dairy.

With these ingredient substitutions, you can still eat all the delicious flavors you love while enjoying a number of health benefits.

In this way, you can feel and look your best as holiday activities continue on into January. Instead of regretting what you ate, you will glow with radiant health as you welcome the New Year of 2018!

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How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, Second Edition

Author receives national recognition through the FIFTH ANNUAL

BEVERLY HILLS INTERNATIONAL BOOK AWARDS® Awarded First Place Winner in Two Categories!

Dallas, TX, (November, 2017) – The FIFTH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL Beverly Hills IBook Awards® recognized “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, “ Second Edition, By Nancy Addison, As A Double Winner. Winner for Best Diet And Nutrition Book and Best Health Book of the Year!

The competition is judged by experts from all aspects of the book industry, including publishers, writers, editors, book cover designers and professional copywriters. They select award winners and finalists based on overall excellence.

“How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, ” the Second Edition, By Nancy Addison is a non-fiction book which addresses diet, nutrition and cooking with a plant based diet.

This is not the only award this fantastic book has received. How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd Edition, also won “Best Specialy Cookbook” in the Book Excellence Awards, 2017- 2018, as well as 5 other awards!

The plant-based diet is the healing diet. Whether you are a vegetarian or someone who just wants to be healthier, when you add more plant based foods to your diet, your health is going to benefit. Nancy’s book is “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian.” Nancy’s book has nutrition facts and information that would benefit anyone (with lots of helpful information for people with cancer, diabetes, frequent illnesses or weight loss and weight control problems); over 115 simple gourmet, organic recipes (everything from raw, vegan to vegetarian); cutting edge information on soy, protein, fats, sugars; helpful shopping information; fantastic natural remedies (for healthy hair, sleeping problems, foods to help alleviate stress or boosting your libido), how to your boost immune system, stress management, organic nutrition facts, nutritional supplements recommendations, organic gardening tips, and resources! It is easy to understand and a great resource for anyone who is looking to live a healthier lifestyle.

“Best Health and Nutrition Book of this Century!”

“How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian“ second edition,  is an excellent book. Having had the opportunity to assist and promote health and nutrition with world-class athletes over the last 25 years; it is my opinion that Nancy Addison’s book is a formula for high-level performance in our daily lives. I can’t imagine a more informative book for the person looking to improve their health. Nancy is one of the best nutrition experts I have ever met. What you put on the end of your fork is more powerful medicine than anything you will find at the bottom of a pill bottle.”

– Gary L. Massad M.D. First National Corporate Medical Director and founder of Occupational Health Centers in America. Attending physician to the Iron Man Hawaii; Attending Physician, United States Triathlon Association; Attending Physician United States Tae Kwon Do Association, Attending Physician United States Cycling Federation.

“We are so proud to announce this book as a winner in this, our fifth year,”  said awards sponsor Ellen Reid.

For more information please visit:bhbookawards.com

Nancy’s nutritional information is cutting-edge and easy to understand.  Her approach is preventative and deliciously gourmet all at the same time.

Addison’s book is for anyone who wants to live a healthy lifestyle on a plant based diet.  Even people who shy away from anything green can benefit from reading this book. Addison’s stories make her book entertaining while providing beneficial health information.  Each delicious recipe provides guidance for optimal health.

Addison is a Dallas native and raised her two children on an organic, whole-grain, vegetarian diet.

Nancy Addison is available for interviews and appearances.  For more information, please visit www.organichealthylife.com, find Nancy on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube and follow her on Twitter @nancygaddison. Contact Nancy at Nancy@organicheatlhylifestyle.com

To order her award-winning book, here is the universal link on Amazon: myBook.to/vegetarianbook

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Grilling, frying, broiling, (and other cooking methods that expose meat to extremely high temperatures), “creates potential cancer-causing compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs).

This is especially true when the meat is charred or overcooked. Moreover, when fat drips on the heat source, the plumes of smoke can coat meat with other dangerous chemicals.

The worst offenders are fatty, well-done beef, pork and lamb, but even poultry and fish produce HCAs when seared.”(1)

If you love grilling, here are a few ways to reduce the dangers:
• Buy lean types of meat and trim off all visible fat.
• “Marinate meat. Researchers have found that this can decrease HCAs by more than 90 percent. Use combinations of beer, cider, vinegar, citrus juices, mustard, herbs, and brown sugar.”(2)
• Precook meat in an oven, and then finish on the grill.
•Try using a lower heat. Don’t put the meat right over the fire. Put the meat to the side of the grill where the heat isn’t as hot.
• Turn the meat more frequently, and grill the meat just until it is cooked and safe to eat. Don’t cook it until it is charred. You can use a meat thermometer to check and make sure it is done.
• Avoid breathing in smoke, which also has risks.
• Veggie burgers, seitan (a protein-rich food made of wheat gluten, used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes), Portobello mushrooms and vegetables have little or no formation of HCA’s when grilled.

Try going vegetarian once in a while!
It tastes good, and is good for you!

Sources 1 & 2 Berkeley Wellness Alert University of California – 5/24/2011
By Nancy Addison CHC, AADP
copyright@nancyaddison2017

For more recipes or nutrition information you may like Nancy’s award-winning cookbooks, that include health and nutrition information. You can see them on her website: www.organichealthylife.com

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Soy has many negative effects on health because it is difficult to digest, affects your hormones, and is closely linked to GMOs, pesticides, and harmful processing chemicals.

Soy protein is a complete protein but can be very hard to digest. The Chinese did not eat unfermented soybeans, because they contain quantities of natural toxins or “anti-nutrients” and are high in phytic acid. This means ingesting unfermented soy can prevent the body from absorbing other nutrients like calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and particularly protein.

In China, soy was not used as a food until fermentation techniques were discovered in the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC). When soy is fermented—as in miso, tempeh, or soy sauce—the soy nutrients are more digestible and easier to absorb.

Soy has been linked to gastric distress and pancreatic problems, including cancer, and it can impair our body’s uptake of amino acids.(1) It also contains goitrogens, which are known to suppress the functioning of the thyroid.(2)

Most soy on the market today is from genetically modified (GM) seed. 91 percent of soybeans planted in the United States are GM, and the rate is rapidly growing throughout the world, according to Natural News newsletter.(3)

Dr. Gregory Damato points out that “more than 95 percent of GM soy (and 75 percent of other GM crops) is engineered to tolerate glyphosate herbicide, the most common formulation of which is Roundup. (4)
Recent studies by French scientists on the Toxicity of Roundup and Glyphosate found this herbicide carcinogenic.(5)

They found it:

1. Causes cell cycle dysregulation, which is a hallmark of tumor cells and human cancers.

2. Inhibits DNA synthesis in certain parts of the cell cycle— the cells’ reproductive process, which underlies the growth and development of all living organisms.

3. Impedes the hatchings of sea urchins. (Sea urchins were used because they constitute an appropriate model for the identification of undesirable cellular and molecular targets of pollutants.) The delay was found to be dose dependent on the concentration of Roundup. The surfactant polyoxyethylene amine (POEA), another major component of Roundup, was also found to be highly toxic to the embryos when tested alone, and could therefore be a contributing factor.(6)

These reasons are some reasons why I don’t eat soy if I can avoid it, or any other genetically modified food or non-organically grown food.

I recommend reading more about glyphosate herbicide if you are eating non-certified organic foods.

Be aware that soy is added to tortillas, breads, fake meats, and many other foods, supposedly for the “health” benefit. In my opinion, it is really used as cheap filler.

Health and nutrition expert Dr. Joseph Mercola writes that the advertising industry has misled the public about the safety and health benefits of soy, as well as the widespread use of it in the Asian diet. He states, “A study of the history of soy use in Asia shows that the poor used it during times of extreme food shortage, and only when the soybeans were carefully prepared (e.g. by lengthy fermentation) to destroy the soy toxins.”(7)

He goes on to say that, contrary to some reports in the West, it is not the usual practice in Asian countries to feed soy milk to infants.(8) Be aware of this when you read food labels that refer to soy’s health benefits, even those that display an FDA statement that soy can help lower the risk of heart disease.

In 2000, two FDA employees, Daniel Doerge and Daniel Sheehan, were so worried about the danger of soy that they wrote a controversial letter to their employer, protesting the positive health claims for soy that the FDA was approving at the time.

They wrote: There is abundant evidence that some of the isoflavones found in soy—including genistein  and equol, a metabolite of daidzen—demonstrate toxicity in estrogen sensitive tissues and in the thyroid. This is true for a number of species, including humans.Additionally, isoflavones are inhibitors of the thyroid peroxidase which makes T3 and T4.

Inhibition can be expected to generate thyroid abnormalities, including goiter and autoimmune thyroiditi s. There exists a significant body of animal data that demonstrates goitrogenic and even carcinogenic effects of soy products.Moreover, there are significant reports of goitrogenic effects from soy consumption in human infants.(9)

Think carefully about the effects that soy can have on the thyroid (our master gland which affects almost all aspects of our health) and estrogen. Many doctors and nutritionists are soy proponents. Be careful and research this yourself if you are concerned.

A billion-dollar industry advertises soy as the answer to many health issues, from heart disease to weight problems. Soy is frequently touted as the answer to women’s menopause hormone imbalances. This is one of the reasons why so many doctors and older women were happy to embrace it.

Soy and soy-based products contain isoflavones or phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogens. Soy is not the only food that contains phytoestrogens. There are other less controversial and more digestible foods with phytoestrogens you can include in your diet.

For men, eating soy isoflavones can significantly reduce testicular function and lower luteinizing hormone (LH) production, which is what signals the testicles to work. A high soy intake which potentially lowers level of LH increases the probability of estrogen dominance in men, contributing to hair loss, swollen and cancerous prostates, and insulin resistance.

Dr. Doris Rapp, MD, a leading pediatric allergist, asserts that environmental and food estrogens are responsible for the worldwide reduction in male fertility.(10)

Soy consumption has been linked with cancer in adults, notably breast cancer, as I read in an article by Jim Rutz. He went on to say: That’s why the governments of Israel, the UK, France, and New Zealand are already cracking down hard on soy… In sad contrast, 60 percent of the refined foods in US supermarkets now contain soy. Worse, soy use may double in the next few years because (last I heard) the out-of-touch medicrats in the FDA hierarchy are considering allowing manufacturers of cereal, energy bars, fake milk, fake yogurt, etc., to claim that “soy prevents cancer.”

It doesn’t…P.S.: Soy sauce is fine. Unlike soy milk, it’s perfectly safe because it’s fermented, which changes its molecular structure. Miso, natto, and tempeh are also okay, but avoid tofu.(11)

Soy can create allergic reactions. In 1986, Dr. Stuart Berger, MD, placed soy among the top seven allergens, one of the “sinister seven.”

Finally, completely avoid soy protein isolate. It is a byproduct of soybean oil processing that is found in a huge number of vegan foods. A standard soybean contains 40 percent protein, while soy protein isolate is usually about 95 percent protein. But it poses serious health risks.

The processing of soy protein isolate is done mostly in aluminum tanks that leach high levels of aluminum into the product. Then MSG, flavorings, preservatives, sweeteners, and synthetic chemicals are frequently added to help get rid of the “beany” taste and add more “meaty” flavor. In animal experiments, the test animals fed soy isolate developed enlarged organs, particularly the thyroid and the pancreas.

After the soybeans—which are mostly GMO varieties—are crushed to extract the oil, the leftover soy “chunks” (which still contain fiber, water, some fat, and other carbohydrates) then undergo another extraction process that involves hexane—a neurotoxin that is also a substantial component in gasoline.

The next step involves soaking these chunks in a chemical mixture (which commonly contains ammonia and hydrochloric acid) to help concentrate protein levels and achieve a sponge-like texture. Finally, the mixture is spray-dried.(12)

Soy protein isolate can only be made in factories. Healthy, whole foods should be possible to make in a kitchen. You can grind your own almond flour at home from almonds. You can make your own seitan (wheat meat) at home. You can make your own rice milk or hemp milk at home with a blender and some whole-food ingredients.

The only way to make soy protein isolate is by using extremely flammable and hazardous chemicals, like hexane, and extreme temperatures that you could not possibly obtain in a kitchen setting.

Hexane is not used in the production of organic soy protein isolate. For a list of which protein bars and soy burgers are made using hexane-extracted soy protein isolates and which aren’t, go to: www.cornucopia.org/hexane-guides/hexane_guide_bars.html.

As I researched soy, I came to seriously reconsider its use. I avoid it in most forms, but I do, however, use organic, non-GMO fermented soy sauce. I also use organic miso and tempeh occasionally. There are alternative organic misos now that are made with brown rice, garbanzo beans, and barley—and they taste terrific. I buy these instead of the soy variety.

In conclusion, I do not recommend soy or soy protein for a healing diet. If you are going to buy soy, purchase certified organic, sprouted, non-GMO soy because it won’t be from genetically modified seeds. If you must buy soy, purchase sprouted and/or fermented, non-GMO, certified organic soy for a more digestible and less harmful soy protein, and avoid soy protein isolates.

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Check out Nancy Addison’s #1 best selling, award-winning, healthy cookbooks! She has written 6 of them! Click here to view her author page on Amazon.

Sources:
1.    Damato, Gregory. (2009, May 27). “GM-Soy: Destroy the Earth and Humans for Profit.” Natural News. http://www.naturalnews.com/026334_soy_Roundup_GMO.htm l#ixzz1RzIZAWwh
2.    Fallon, Sally, & Enig, Mary G. (2000, April–May). “Newest Research on Why You Should Avoid Soy.” Nexus, 7(3). http://www.eregimens.com/therapies/Diet/Soy/NewestResearc honwhyYouShouldAvoidSoy.htm
3.    Damato, Gregory. (2009, May 27). “GM-Soy: Destroy the Earth and Humans for Profit” Natural News. http://www.naturalnews.com/026334_soy_research_Roundup.htm

4.     Ibid.
5.    Mercola, Joseph. (2012, June 9). “New Evidence Against These Cancer-causing Foods – and the Massive Cover-up Effort.” http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/06/09/monsanto-roundup-found-to-be-carcinogenic.aspx
6.    Bellé, R., et. al. (May 9, 2012). Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B: Critical Reviews, 15(4): 233-237. http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10937404.2012.67 2149
7.    Mercola, Joseph. (2009, January 9). “Learn the Truth About Soy. Just How Much Soy Do Asians Eat?” http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2000/01/09/truth-about-soy.aspx
8.    Ibid.
9.    Sheegan, Daniel M., & Doerge, Daniel R. (1999, February 18).Letter to Dockets Management Branch (HFA-305). The letter was posted on ABCnews.com as “Scientists Protest Soy Approval.”
10.    Bellatti, Andy. “You Ask, I Answer: Soy Protein Isolate.” Medpedia. Belatti is a commenter on the original article by Kelsey Lepp. http://smallbites.andybellatti.com/you-ask-i- answer-soy-protein-isolate/
11.     Rutz, Jim. (2006, December 12). “Soy is Making Kids ‘Gay’.” WND Commentary. http://www.wnd.com/2006/12/39353/
12.    Cousens, Gabriel. (2008). There Is a Cure for Diabetes. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books.

copyright@nancyaddison2015

Check out Nancy Addison’s #1 best selling, award-winning, healthy cookbooks! She has written 6 of them! Click here to view her author page on Amazon.

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Ingredients:

1 banana (with skin)

1 ½ c. fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

2 c. alternative milk of choice (unsweetened, vanilla hemp or coconut milk are good choices)

1 tsp. raw, organic, pure, extra virgin coconut oil

1 tsp. cold pressed, raw hemp or flax seed oil

1 scoop vegan, organic, protein powder (I use the Prime My Body brand.)

1 T. probiotics – (liquid form, in refrigerated section of healthy    grocery store or empty 2 capsules into the mixture) 

Directions:

1. Take the banana and wash well and cut off the hard ends. Cut into chunks and add it completely to the blender. (The skin has more nutrients in it than the banana and the fiber is supportive of adrenal and overall health.)
2. Place the rest of the ingredients to the blender and blend  until smooth.
3. Serve with a few fresh berries!

For more recipes like this, you may like one of Nancy’s award winning, healthy, award-winning cookbooks!

Click here to view her books on Amazon. Universal author link: Author.to/nancyaddison

copyright@nancyaddison2017

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Why would you want to drink kombucha?

Kombucha is a naturally fermented liquid. This fermentation process creates healthy bacteria, which is also known as probiotics. Kombucha is a probiotic (healthy bacteria) rich beverage that therefore supports the immune system. Our immune system is made up of healthy bacteria and about 80% of that is in the gut. When we drink a fermented drink, like kombucha, we are providing more beneficial, healthy bacteria to our immune system. Kombucha supports digestion. This is because of its high levels of beneficial acid, probiotics, amino acids and enzymes. The ancient Chinese called kombucha the “Immortal Health Elixir!”

Even though kombucha can be a little sour tasting, I think it is delicious. I ferment my kombucha for about 2 weeks to a month, then I refrigerate the liquid. Then it’s time to start making my next batch.

Kombucha Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 gallon sized glass jar
• 1 cup organic raw sugar
• 4-6 bags organic black tea.
• Kombucha – it’s called a “Scoby” ((symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast)
• 1-2 cups of starter kombucha liquid (This is the liquid I save from the last batch of kombucha I made.  I always put my scoby in a new jar with at least a cup or more of the fermented liquid from the last batch. I never let it dry out or be without some of the fermented liquid.)
• non-chlorinated, non-fluoridated, mineral rich water
• cheese cloth, enough to cover the jar top easily. (I use the cheese cloth to cover the top of the jar. It needs to breathe when fermenting.)
•  one large rubber band that will fit around the jar rim.

Directions

1. Boil  at least 4 or 5 cups of the non-chlorinated water.

2. Combine the boiling water and the organic black tea bags. Then let it steep for an 30 minutes or an hour.

3. Add the sugar to the tea mixture and stir to dissolve. You can add it when the tea is warm and it will disolve easier. Remove the tea bags, when the tea is cool.

4. Fill the glass jar most of the way with  the cooled tea and sugar mixture.

5. Gently place the the kombucha scoby and starter liquid to the jar.

6. Then add more purified, non-chlorinated water, until it’s almost full. You want to leave about 3- 4 inches from the top for breathing room.

7. Cover with the cheese cloth and secure it with the rubber band.

8. Set the jar in a warm place, just out of direct sunlight.

9. Do not disturb the kombucha for at least 2 weeks.

10. After about 14 days you are ready to taste the mixture.

11. Use a straw and gently insert the straw just under the edge of the Kombucha scoby and try a sip. If it’s taste is sour, then it’s ready.  It it’s taste is sweet, you will need to let it ferment a few more days and taste it again. Do a taste test every few days, until it has a sour or tarte taste. This sour, tarte taste means it’s feremented.

 12. When it’s ready, pour the liquid into jars and refrigerate it.

13. I drink about a cup on a empty stomach in the morning.  This is too strong for some people.

Note, some people put a little ginger root chopped up in the fermenting liquid.

You can experiment with yours and see what you like to do to create more flavor or variations.

Scoby’s get worn out after about 6 months. I get a new one about every 6 to 12 months.

You can order them over the internet.

For more health or nutritious recipes you may like to try some of Nancy’s award-winning books. Nancy’s books can be found on Amazon.

The information from Nancy Addison and Organic Healthy Lifestyle LLC is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer:Information provided in this article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

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Even though the harvest last for 4 months, there are peaks in the season. The California cherries peak at the end of May/beginning of June. The Washington cherries peak in early July.

Cherries contain vitamin C, carotenoids, and anthocyanins – cancer fighting  compounds.

I love this delicious smoothie recipe.

I always recommend organic.

Why, because conventionally grown cherries  don’t have the nutrients in them that organic cherries have. Also, cherries are on EWG’s Dirty Dozen List of produce that is the most contaminated with pesticides. They get their data from the USDA Pesticide Data Program, which tests for pesticide residues on washed produce.

Conventional cherries have been shown to carry residues from up to 42 different pesticides, some of which are known carcinogens, suspected hormone disruptors, neurotoxins, and bee toxins. Both sweet and tart cherries supply these antioxidant substances, though tart cherries contain more. (Tart cherries can also contribute to better sleep.) The antioxidants in cherry juice and dried cherries (both unsweetened and sweetened) are similar to fresh cherries. Frozen cherries’ antioxidant content is somewhat lower. If you can’t find fresh organic cherries where you are, the frozen ones work great too!

Super Cherry Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1-cup fresh berries (blackberries, blueberries, etc.)
• 1 cup pitted, fresh cherries
• ½ cup coconut or hemp, unsweetened, vanilla milk (add more as needed)
• 2 cups baby greens (spinach, Kale, romaine are all great)
• ¼ cup sprouted, pumpkin seeds

Instructions

1. Place all of the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Serves one or two.

Join me, it’s delicious!

Leave a comment! Let me know what you think about this information and recipe!

Copyright@nancyaddison2015

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Researchers found the women who ate a third of an ounce of fresh mushrooms every day had lowered their risk of developing a tumor by 64%.

Dried mushrooms didn’t have quite the same benefit, but still reduced the risk “by around half.”

The study also found that the women who regularly drank green tea, combined with their daily serving of fresh mushrooms, reduced their risk by 90%.

When reporting this study in 2009, The Telegraph went on to say that animal tests show mushrooms have “anti-tumor properties and can stimulate the immune system’s defenses.” Mushrooms might accomplish this by blocking “the body’s production of the hormone oestrogen, which can encourage the development of cancer.”

As the author of How to Be a Healthy Vegetarian, I promote a plant-based diet. A vegetarian diet “provides a variety of cancer-protective dietary factors,” according to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. A vegetarian diet reduces obesity.

This study’s author notes that obesity increases cancer risk, and that because the Body Mass Index (BMI) “of vegans is considerably lower than that of non-vegetarians,” a plant-based diet “may be an important protective factor for lowering cancer risk.”

Mushrooms are low in calories and are 80–90% water, which makes them a great substitute for meat when you want to cut calories.

Mushrooms have been studied extensively for their health benefits because they have been found to aid the immune system. These dense, smooth, earthy fungi grow in thousands of varieties, and most of them are rich in potassium, selenium, copper, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and B-complex vitamins. One medium Portobello mushroom has more potassium than a small banana.

Five medium cremini mushrooms have more selenium than a large egg or three ounces of lean beef. Plus, the copper in mushrooms helps you make red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body.

Mushrooms are an excellent source of the antioxidants known as polyphenols, selenium, and ergothioneine. Ergothioneine is a master antioxidant, an amino acid containing sulfur. Sulfur is an extremely important nutrient, yet it is often overlooked.

There are many varieties of mushrooms, thousands of which are poisonous, so do not pick them in the wild. Always buy them from a reliable and reputable supplier. Look for mushrooms that are smooth, clean, and fresh in appearance.

To clean them, use a soft mushroom brush or wet paper towel to remove any parts that look dirty or mushy. You can rinse them, but do not soak them.

Keep them refrigerated in the original container until you’re ready to use them. They can keep up to a week in the refrigerator in a porous paper bag, but never put mushrooms in an airtight container and never freeze them.

Always trim the end of the stem before you use mushrooms. If the stems are too tough, just use the caps.

Adding mushrooms to dishes is easy. Thinly slice them for salads, pasta dishes, and sandwiches—or serve them as a side dish.

Grilling them is always great, and mushrooms make a tasty and healthy alternative to a burger. I love to sauté them with onions and butter to bring out the rich flavor of savory mushrooms.

Each mushroom has a different flavor, so experiment by trying different varieties.

For some easy, recipes, you may like my How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition cookbook. It’s a great place to start for delicious vegetarian food and nutritional advice!

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The American Thanksgiving is a traditional meal inspired by the pilgrims. The original feast was probably shared sometime in the fall, possibly in October, with the Wampanoag first nation’s people. Thanksgiving did not become an annual federal holiday until 1941, and what we have come to know as our traditional meal of turkey and fixings has evolved over time.

Thanksgiving often involves a number of rich, savory foods, creamy dips and fried foods. And yet, these foods don’t always make our body feel at it’s best. So, here are a few ingredient or food choice tips that can make our dishes healthier to share with beloved family and friends.

When making or serving snacks, dips can be a healthy high protein hummus or guacamole. Cutting some cucumber, red bell pepper or celery to use as the dipping chips is a great choice! If you want to serve crackers or chips, try using a whole grain, sprouted, organic version.

A potato dish can be made with sweet or purple potatoes in place of white potatoes. Use a high quality, organic butter or use organic ghee or coconut oil as the healthy fat to mix into it when mashing them up to cook or to cut up and bake as fries. Sweet potatoes are delicious and high in fiber and beta-carotene.

When preparing a turkey, try using a little orange juice and coconut oil to add moisture to the turkey, and try baking it instead of frying it. If you are baking, frying or sautéing anything, use organic, pure coconut oil in place of lard, vegetable oil or a trans fat like Crisco. It handles heat well and has fantastic health benefits.

For other types of animal, fish or fowl, you can grill, broil, or sauté them in a little coconut oil. After you remove it from the heat, you can drizzle some pure, organic, extra virgin olive oil on it and serve with lemon juice or a lemon juice vinaigrette. When dining, choose skinless, white meat pieces and then add just a tiny bit of gravy.

For a healthy stuffing, try making one with organic sprouted rice or even wild rice. Then, bake your stuffing in a separate dish instead of cooking it inside the turkey where it can absorb a high amount of high saturated fat from the meat.

When making corn bread stuffing, purchase the non-GMO, organic cornmeal (which is free of the bT toxin). If you are feeling brave, try using blue cornmeal which is about 30 percent higher in protein and has more zinc and iron than white or yellow corn

Now for dessert, try making a pumpkin pie! You can make a whole sprouted grain crust yourself or you can find a whole grain ready-made crust at the store, and make my cashew crème recipe as the whipped cream for the topping.

Try using non-dairy milk in your recipes or for your coffee creamer.
If you want it to be sweeter, blend the milk (like the unsweetened, vanilla coconut or hemp milk) with a little extra added vanilla or maple extract in a blender and add some pitted dates (I soak them in water to make them softer, so they will crème up easier) and voilà! You have a healthier version of a sweet, holiday creamer for your coffee or desserts.

For snacks, try serving combinations of organic, sprouted nuts, sprouted seeds and raisins.

With these ingredient substitutions, you can still eat all the delicious flavors you love while enjoying a number of health benefits.

In this way, you can feel and look your best as holiday activities continue on into December. Instead of regretting what you ate, you will glow with radiant health as you welcome the New Year of 2016!

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Here I am today, after 30 years of eating vegetarian

and Raising Healthy Children that way.

I lost weight easily, without even trying.

I got healthy and I feel terrific!

I’m 63 years old now and I feel like I’m 30!

People say I look like I’m in my 40’s!

Why is becoming Vegetarian To Lose Weight a healthy way to live your life and have radiant health?

The vegetarian diet goes way back in time. It was recorded in the sixth century by the Greeks. Today, many people are becoming vegetarian to lose weight, health, environmental, or ethical reasons.

Vegetarianism and Health

Studies show that people on healthy vegetarian diets have lower risks of:

• Heart disease
• Colorectal, ovarian, and breast cancers
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)[1]

Dr. Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., former president of the medical staff at the Cleveland Clinic, writes that you can reverse heart disease with no drugs and only a plant-based diet. He bases this conclusion on the groundbreaking results of his 20-year nutritional study. Backed by solid scientific evidence, he argues that we can end the heart disease epidemic simply by changing what we eat. Dr. Esselstyn recommends a plant-based, oil-free diet that he says can prevent heart disease, stop its progress, and even reverse its effects.[2]

The late Walter Kempner, MD, founded the Rice Diet. He advocated a diet of rice, fruit, and vegetables on the basis that it has the power to do miraculous things for people and help them gain back their health. He treated hundreds of people at Duke University where he prescribed a diet of rice, vegetables, and fruit that reversed hypertension, diabetic eye changes, heart failure, kidney failure, and obesity.[3]

Dr. T. Colin Campbell, PhD, professor emeritus at Cornell University and co-author of The China Study, the most comprehensive human nutrition study to date, advocates a plant-based diet for optimum health. I was fortunate to be part of Dr. Campbell’s class at Cornell University, where he told us:

Plant-based eating is a superior way of eating. Benefits of eating this way: Live longer, look and feel younger, have more energy, lose weight, lower blood cholesterol, prevent and even reverse heart disease, lower your risk of prostate, breast and other cancers, preserve your eyesight in your later years, prevent and treat diabetes, avoid surgery, vastly decrease need for pharmaceutical drugs, keep bones strong, avoid impotence, avoid stroke, prevent kidney stones, keep your baby from getting type 2 diabetes, alleviate constipation, lower your blood pressure, avoid Alzheimer’s, beat arthritis and more.

Dr. Campbell discussed studies he had done on the diseases that arise in populations when meat protein is introduced into the diet. He continued:

My early research gave me the understanding that animal protein, when tested experimentally, was substantially different from plant protein in its ability to promote tumor development. It turned out that animal protein had its effect by operating through a constellation of integrative mechanisms. The division between animal and plant foods was a signpost of a division of the kinds of foods having an effect on cancer.[4]

In Dr. Campbell’s class on plant-based nutrition, I learned of many studies that prove it is possible to be healthy or overcome illness on a plant-based diet. Recently, one study conducted by a team of American and Japanese researchers showed that people who have diabetes can vastly improve their health by eating an entirely plant-based diet.[5] More than 100 million people today have diabetes or pre-diabetes.

The study’s findings agree with my experience. Working with people who have diabetes, I have found they show remarkable improvement in their health and well-being from consuming a plant-based and almost completely raw food diet.

For that study, the researchers also undertook a new meta-analysis—which is considered the highest level of scientific evidence—in which they compared six significant prior research studies. The researchers found a plant-based diet significantly improved blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes, and specifically in a key indicator of blood sugar control called hemoglobin A1c. The participants’ results improved as much as 1.2 points, which was greater than the effect of typical oral diabetes medicines.

The study also combined the results of all of the available studies. It indicated the benefits of excluding dairy (including cheese), eggs, and meat from the diet was as much as 0.7 points in some studies, averaging 0.4 points overall. The participants in most of these studies were not required to reduce their calorie or carbohydrate consumption.

Then, even more compelling is a recent national (US) dietary survey  that was completed with over 6,000 people between the ages of 50 and 65 years old.  It was found that those who reported high protein  intake ( example: eggs, dairy, fowl, pork, cows, lamb, etc.), increased their risk of death by 75 percent.

The study showed a quadruple increase of cancer death during the following 18 years, and a quintuple increase of death from diabetes. The participants with  a moderate intake of protein had  a triple increase in their risk of death due to cancer, when compared with the low protein intake group.

According to Mladen Golubic, MD, PhD, with the Cleveland Clinic, “It is important to note that these associations of death by disease were completely eradicated if the ingested proteins were “plant-derived”.  The composition of complex amino acids, (which are the building blocks of protein), that is derived from animals, acts very differently than the amino acids from plant protein. What we need are amino acids, not the proteins themselves.” (6)

I’ve learned everyone needs to find the diet that works best for them, and find balance in their life. I also know that the quality of the food we eat is vital. From my studies, I believe an organic, plant-based diet can benefit your health, and even heal your body.

If you would like to try a plant-based diet, you may like my book: How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian – Second Edition

It is a best-seller and it just won

Best Diet And Nutrition Book by the Beverly Hills Book Awards, 2017-2018

and

Best Specialty Book of the Year by the Book Excellence Awards, 2017-2018.

Buy it today and find out what it’s like to have radiant health!

Half the book is about nutrition and health the other half is recipes and resources.

Click here to view my 6 award-winning books on my Amazon Author page.

What People are saying about my book:

Best Health and Nutrition Book of this Century

By Dr. Gary Massad

“How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian” 2nd edition, is an excellent book. Having had the opportunity to assist and promote health and nutrition with world-class athletes over the last 25 years; it is my opinion that Nancy Addison’s book is a formula for high-level performance in our daily lives. I can’t imagine a more informative book for the person looking to improve their health. The chapter about sugar is the most complete information available. Nancy is an expert in Nutrition. What you put on the end of your fork is more powerful medicine than anything you will find at the bottom of a pill bottle.”
Gary L. Massad M.D.
-First National Corporate Medical Director and founder of Occupational Health Centers in America. Attending physician to the Iron Man Hawaii; Attending Physician, United States Triathlon Association; Attending Physician United States Tae Kwon Do Association, Attending Physician United States Cycling Federation.

How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian

By Michael Hall, DC

“How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition, is a wonderful book!!
Finally, a book that I can recommend to my patients without reservation. It is concise, well-written, and easy to follow.
Patients and consumers alike are inundated with the number of books, articles, and marketing that surround our eating habits.
This book easily puts the fundamental concepts into one place that anyone can understand and utilize. The recipes are tasty and can be made with relative ease.
For anyone wanting to make a positive and healthy change in their eating habits and their health this is the book for you!”

“I have just finished reading Nancy Addison’s book “How To Become A Healthy Vegetarian.” It is well written, compelling and informative. The health benefits are indisputable. Nancy, being a gourmet chef as well as nutritionist provides some recipes that clearly explain why Nancy’s dinner guests are pleasantly surprised to indulge in a meatless meal. I found Nancy’s book interesting, well researched as well as a fun read that might be very helpful to anyone who would like to be a healthy vegetarian!”

-Louis P. Brady M.D.

 Resources:

[1] Brown University. “Being a Vegetarian: What are the Health Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet?” Retrieved from  http://brown.edu/Student_Services/Health_Services/Health_Education/nutrition_&_eating_concerns/being_a_vegetarian.php#4

[2] Esselstyn, Caldwell B., Jr. (2008). Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease: The Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven, Nutrition-Based Cure. Avery Trade.

[3] McDougall, John. “Nutrition in the Medical Clinic Part III” lecture. Plant-Based Nutrition. eCornell University.

[4] Campbell, T. Colin. (2010). “Principles of Nutritional Health. Plant-Based Nutrition.” eCornell University and the T. Colin Campbell Foundation.

[5] Yokoyama, Y., Barnard, N.D., Levin, S.M., & Watanabe, M. (2014, October). “Vegetarian Diets and Glycemic Control in Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.” Cardiovascular Diagnosis & Therapy, 4(5), 373–382.

6, Cleveland Clinic, Benefits of Plant Based Diets,  “Online Health Chat with Mladen Golubic, MD, Ph, Friday, April 4, 2014 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/transcripts/1602_benefits-of-plant-based-diets

 Order: How To Become A Healthy Vegetarian, 2nd edition, and learn Nancy’s simple strategies for living a more radiant, healthy life.

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