Delicious Tips for Cancer Awareness and Prevention

It’s the end of November and that last two months have been dedicated to Cancer awareness for both women and men. So I am doing my part and sharing with you some of my tips to take your health into your own hands. Whether you have been diagnosed breast or prostate cancer or just working towards preventing, it is important to understand that you are responsible for your own health. You have every power within you to control the things YOU do on a day-to-day basis.  You don’t have complete control over such things as genetics, the environments and other extraneous factors (although some would beg to differ), but how you live your life each day up to you!

If your lifestyle choices are positive and health promoting, then you can only help any situation (wherever you are) to make things better. What you eat, what you wear, put on your body and your thoughts all make a difference!

Of all the things that we don’t have the power to manipulate within our lives, you need to focus on what is tangible and realistic.

Take some these preventive steps today to keep your mind and body healthy!

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent, Moderate and Balance!

1. Use organic products on your body – shaving cream, makeup, hair. If you can eat it, it can go on your body. Honey and avocado make a great facemask!
   1. For Men:  Gentleman’s Refinery, Nature Clean Shampoo
   2. For Women: Mad Gabs, Mineral Fusion, Evan Healy, Nature Clean Shampoo
   3. Sleep soundly on organic hemp or bamboo bedding and mattress
   4. Choose organic and sustainable clothing made from organic cotton, bamboo or other natural fabrics. Also get yourself some reusable bags to take with you shopping Bazura Bags, Rume
   5. Use household cleaners that are non-toxic with natural components such as Nature Clean or be simple and use lemon and vinegar.
   6. Get plenty of fresh air.  Escape up north for a drive and marvel at how amazing life truly is amongst fields, trees and lakes
   7. When it comes to food, choose local and organic food – avoiding pesticides, chemicals, GMO,
   8. Use glass storage containers to avoid BPA leaking into your lovingly prepared food check out Wean Green
   9. Avoid the microwave – why expose yourself to radiation when you have so many alternatives, like the stovetop or the oven.
   10. Make time for you. Whether it’s through meditation, yoga, exercise, gardening choose to do things that you love on a regular basis.
   11. Be grateful – we all have daily woes that bring us down, but realistically we are incredibly lucky.   Make a list every morning of at least three things you are grateful for.  It can be as simple as being able to breath and having hands to hold your loved ones, to having a roof over your head, to having internet access!  So many things we take for granted, that if we expressed gratitude every day we would be so much happier and healthier!
   12. Get yourself a copy of Kris Carr’s Crazy Sexy Life and watch Crazy Sexy Cancer. Amazing tips, ideas, recipes and makes light of the whole C word!

Why bake with Xyla?

 

This was my very question. With the growth of alternative sweeteners that have no impact on blood sugar levels, I wanted to know what made xylitol stand out from the rest.

I’m a maple syrup and honey kind of girl. So I need to be convinced when something “new” and trendy hits the market. I also need to be 100% sure that it is 100% natural in order for me to even consider it.

Since Xylitol comes from a wood fiber, I thought I would give it a chance!

Some background:

Xylitol is… a natural sweetener found in fibrous vegetables and fruits, as well as in several hardwood trees.  It’s extracted and purified into a crystalline form to create a substance that looks, bakes, and tastes like regular white sugar.  But the similarities end there – xylitol has antimicrobial properties that don’t promote or feed dangerous bacteria and fungi.  Plus, it is all natural!

Where it can be used:

Anywhere you use sugar.  Replace it cup-for-cup in baking or sweetening.

The benefits:

- Alkalizing and anti-aging

- Slows a steady release of energy

- Inhibits yeast growth

- Increases absorption of B-vitamins and calcium

- Inhibits plaque and dental cavities by up to 80%, it also remineralizes tooth enamel, increases saliva production and protects saliva proteins, and reduces infections in the mouth and nasopharynx

- Natural insulin stabilizer, diabetic-friendly, and has a lower glycemic index than honey (and even lentils!)

- Diminishes sugar and carb cravings

- Prevents osteoporosis, middle ear infections, and maintains hormonal balance

This was news to me!

I had no idea I could use Xyla in anything and everything to replace sugar. I was told it has no after taste like stevia, so I had to put this to the test. I thought I would mix it in to one of my brownie recipes and see how it matched up. To be honest, I have to say that they turned out pretty good. I could definitely tell that they weren’t as sweet. And it’s not that they had an aftertaste, but more that I couldn’t taste the normal sweetness of what I usually use (namely maple syrup). It was definitely interesting pouring something WHITE into my recipe that looks just like sugar, but I can assure you that it’s not even close.

So will I continue to use it?

I think I will experiment with it in other recipes, but I am not ready to make any kind of switch over in my kitchen. I know it is extremely beneficial for those with diabetes and other blood sugar disorders and I would surely recommend it to such an individual. But for me and my regular crowd – I think I am going to stick with my tried, tested and true maple syrup, coconut nectar, coconut sugar and honey!

 

Chewy Chocolate Banana Brownies

 

What’s In It?

1 cup oat or spelt flour

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 ½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

1 cup xylitol

1 mashed ripe banana

1/3 cup organic coconut oil

½ cup vanilla rice milk

1 ½ tsp vanilla extract

1/3 cup dark chocolate chips

 

How It’s Made

1. Oil an 8×8 baking pan and set aside.
2. Measure oat flour into a large bowl, add the cocoa, baking powder, salt and whisk together.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together xylitol, banana and oil. Add the rice milk and vanilla extract and blend well.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry, using a rubber spatula to mix the ingredients until just blended. Stir in the chips.
5. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35 minutes, or until tester in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before cutting.

Green Beauty Advice from Abby

Since I’ve started down this natural, healthy eating/living path, I’ve learned tons about what NOT to put in your body.  Chemicals, colours, genetically modified anythings and more.  In the last few months I’ve slowly started to extend this way of living into my beauty routine.  I’ve been using naturally based products for a while, but I’ve recently taken things to another level.

Last month my tried-and-true JASON deodorant ran out.  This was the only natural deodorant I’d ever tried and had it work (and I was never a particularly smelly gal anyways).  Standing in the health food store, I noticed a couple of crystal deodorants.  I’d heard a few girls in school talking about them, but in my head I always just assumed that was “taking things too far”.  Come on, who wants to risk being the smelly one at the outdoor wedding this summer?  But I decided to give it a shot.  The label even said, “Yes… It works!” (I got the Northern Harmony brand).

I was shocked – it really does!  I put it on right after a shower and very rarely do I need to reapply later in the day (maybe after a day in the sun, or walking around downtown for a few hours).  Plus one stick is supposed to last up to a year ($7 on deodorant all year? Amazing!)  It’s important that I also stress how when you eat clean, you don’t smell as bad .  You can find it at your local health food store and even Shoppers Drug Mart! Because it’s obviously chemical free, you’ll see some with the “Breast Cancer Society Approved” label on it.  It doesn’t end here.

A few months ago I started to get breakouts around my neck and hairline, and determined it must be my new Aveda shampoo and conditioner.  So I switched to ones by Giovanni, a natural organic line that’s been around for years.  I was pretty happy with them.  That is until a few of weeks ago when my friend Emily told me she’d stopped using these products all together.  This friend of mine is not the hippie/”natural” type that I thought would stop using shampoo.  It’s summer, there are events to go to and humidity to battle!  But she insisted that her hair didn’t feel greasy, have that “dirty hair smell”, or feel weighed down – it actually had the natural volume she’d spent tons of money on buying products for, and took less effort than ever.  Okay, I thought, I’ll give it a shot.  The benefits are huge – fewer chemicals in our water system, fewer bottles to fill with hair product, plus the whole idea of shampoo and conditioner is simply supply and demand (I’m pretty sure there wasn’t a stone age Pantene Pro-V line).  By washing our hair all of the time, we’re stripping our scalp of its natural oils.  These oils are there to moisturize our hair and give it pliability (that’s why your hair is always easier to style the day after you wash it).  It’s also why you need conditioner if you use shampoo – to add moisture back into your hair after stripping it all away.  Shampoo is basically just detergent for your hair.

And if I wouldn’t put it IN my body, why is it going ON my body?

It’s been about two weeks now.  I’m still kind of in the initial gross period while my scalp is figuring out to how much oil it should be producing.  I’ll wait as long as I can to use 1 tablespoon of baking soda (my new “shampoo”) followed by 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (my new “conditioner”)  on my hair in the shower.  Let me tell you – this stuff works!  I was skeptical.  I had my little Dixie cups in the kitchen, measuring out my “shampoo” and “conditioner”, wondering when I’d turned into such a granola.  I mean I still sport form-fitting Lululemon shorts, wear bras and shave my armpits, but here I am, turning into a green beauty ambassador.  I work out 5-6 days a week, sweat, go out at night, and work 2.5 jobs, and I’m confident enough to tell you all that these natural remedies really do the job.

Update: try using coconut vinegar instead, and use a little less than a tablespoon!

If I’m being honest, I still have one green-beauty faux pas – my make up.  I am making some good steps though.  I found this awesome lip balm line called Crazy Rumors.  They make vegan lip balm in fun, Bonne Bell-type flavours like Black Cherry Soda Pop and Gumball.  I haven’t seen it in Canada, but I order from iHerb.com (use RUL924 to get $5 off your purchase).  Do you guys have any tips or product suggestions to help ease the transition to natural makeup?  Have you tried going without your favourite chemical beauty product – deodorant, shampoo, whatever?  Comment below!

Abby

Going to Niagara… and I’m gonna, get Married!

To see some of our amazing photo’s from our photographer Assaf Friedman click here!

Wow. That is crazy to say. So busy writing and posting about all other things and haven’t even had a chance to share my wedding updates with you. Coming up this Sunday July 31st – I will be a married women. Other than letting you know that I am having a vegetarian wedding there is so much more for me to share!

Okay where to start!!

The ceremony: Niagara Botanical Gardens

The reception: Queens Landing – in Niagara on the lake

My wedding dress: Is 100% local and vegetable dyed on natural silk designed by Adele Wechsler

My make-up: organically done by Erin Carpenter

Shoes: There are a few – but the most fun are my Toms vegan late night dancing shoes!

The menu: will be made local fresh ingredients!

Lentil and Sweet potato patties with black/white quinoa with tahini drizzle and roasted veg

 

Jewellery: Hand-made and local with natural gemstones and pearls !

Also I have created some of the most amazing welcome wedding gift bags in each of our guest’s rooms.

I was so graciously supported by contributors such as:

Sha Sha- spelt ginger heart shaped cookies

Mary’s Crackers- gluten free, vegan tasty crackers

Goconut – cinnamon coconut snacks

Nourish Tea - a selection of their teas with filters

Ruth’s hemp bars – vegan energy snack bars

Cocoa Camino chocolate - organic, vegan chocolate bars

Sweet from the Earth cookies- spelt chocolate chip cookies

Now that’s a bag of goodies!

And lastly,

Kiki Maple Sweet Water will be served during ceremony at Niagara botanical gardens to refresh and replenish our guests under the hot sun!

 

We had the most amazing weekend celebrating with our friends and family and enjoying delicious food!

 

In a few weeks I will provide this post with

updated pictures from the wedding!!

Blended Heaven -a Review of David’s Tea

What can I say, I am a tea lover and have been for years. I am always excited to try new blends, combo’s flavours. Ever since David’s Tea came into my life, I have just been loving their blends.

I have to mention, that it’s not only about their tea…but about the whole experience. They have the friendliest staff at almost every location. They are always eager to give you a sniff or a taste of the latest features or whatever your heart desires.

They have natural sweeteners like honey and (agave) as well as alternative milks such as almond milk. They are  eco-friendly and respective of packaging, which I like! If you bring in your own tumbler or one of theirs you get a special discount – which is always nice!

To make me an even happier customer, they sent Abby (my assistant) and I some yummy samples of their summer tea collection to test out. Not that I needed to be swayed any more!

So here is what we got:

Luscious Watermelon

Raspberry Nectar

Green and Fruity

Midsummer’s Night Dream

Three Lemon Green

Don’t they all sound amazing?

The first one we tried was Luscious Watermelon.  We couldn’t decide if it reminded us of Jolly Ranchers or some version of a lip balm we used to wear, but either way it was a much more delicious (healthier!) alternative!  Next we tried the Raspberry Nectar tea.  It has a nice zing from the lemon grass.  It would be refreshing and perfect as ice tea on a humid Toronto summer day.  Green and Fruity was amazingly refreshing, it would go really well with a bowl of fresh fruit (local Ontario berries for example ). Then we tried Midsummer night’s dream – which is citrusy-mint. It has a unique flavour that is cooling and intriguing. Lastly was the 3 lemon, which was truly a favourite of mine. There is nothing like a lemon tea to finish off my night. It is light and cooling and infused rooibos and loaded with antioxidants.

The best part about any of these tea blends, is that they can be steeped and chilled. Making a refreshing iced tea or something to put in your water bottle to sip on during these incredibly hot days.

If that’s a way to drink water, I don’t know what could be better!

Now we want to hear from you…do you drink David’s Tea?

If so, what flavours are your favourites and why? Do tell! We want to hear!

Chewy Chia Goodness Giveaway!

Chia seeds get some good attention on my blog. As they have very quickly become one of my new favourite ingredients to use on a daily basis. I am always discovering different ways to use them and my new favourite way to to make it into cereal.

It can be added to a cereal for a boost of fiber, protein, and healthy fat as I highlighted here.

Or it can be made into a bowl of cereal on it’s own. Thanks to Ruth’s Hemp Foods, she has made this rather easy by creating an amazing product called “Chia Goodness” which is of heart-healthy chia seeds loaded with various different flavour combinations to make each one individually unique!

Ruth’s Chia Goodness Flavours are:

Ginger cranberry
Chocolate
Original
Apple Cinnamon

They are all so delicious. Just add some water or almond milk and watch it expand. It really is like a chia pet! It grows until it is almost double the amount and you have a bowl of chewy chia cereal. That will will provide you with fiber, healthy fat an abundance of energy!

Even though they are all tasty, I am a fan of the original as I still like to make each bowl different and make it my own. I love adding in fresh blueberries, strawberries, coconut nectar or sometimes I will even add in cacao, goji berries, almonds, banana. Whatever I’m feeling that day is what I will add in!

My typical Chia Goodness breakfast:

2-3 tbsp original Chia Goodness
1/4-1/2 cup almond milk or hemp milk – blended with 1 tbsp Sun Warrior + 1 piece of banana
1/4 cup fresh fruit, blueberries, strawberries (from my garden)
1 tbsp coconut nectar
1/4 tsp cinnamon

If you are just dying to try your own version or sample one of Ruth’s delicious flavours of Chia Goodness…now is your chance!!

Chia Goodness Giveway!
Contest Rules: You must live in Toronto and must be able to come and claim your prize from me directly!

If that is all clear, then….

1. Comment below and tell me why you love chia seeds or want to try Chia Goodness
2. Share this post on Facebook – and must be a fan of both Delicious Knowledge and Ruth’s Hemp Foods
3. Share this post on Twitter – and be sure that you are following me!

To find out more about Chia seeds and where and how to use them…read about why I just love this super seed that keeps on giving!

Learn how to use Chia Seeds:

 

giddy-yoyo giveaway

 

I am continuously on the look out for great products that I want to support and promote – especially when it comes to chocolate. Mark and Bridgette have been at it for the last few years and have brought their love for chocolate to life.

They have masterfully created a line of raw chocolate bars that are made with Love and Gratitude, 70% plus pure cacao paste, chocolate, pure cane sugar and crafted essence extracts for each bar. Whether mocha, mint, ginger, orange, spice or just plain delicious original.

Why Giddy Chocolate?

As you know, I am not one for packaged products, but there are a few that I endorse and think are a great addition to a balanced lifestyle. Especially when it comes to chocolate. Since most commercial chocolate bars are just not an option (being loaded with sugar, dairy and containing cocoa that is devoid of any nutrition), why not get your hands on some pure giddy love. Carry them around in your purse or car (though not on a hot summer day). Keep them in your freezer, bring them to a movie, share with a friend – or mix into recipes.

I like to crumble my mint giddy yoyo bar on top of some Coconut Bliss ice cream for a chocolate – minty dessert. I have also crumbled down the original and ginger to top on some strawberries for a refreshing and tasty dessert. Your options are limitless.

The giddy yoyo chocolate is from the most pristine and exotic lands. They way the cacao processed is minimally invasive keeping the cacao as intact and as pure as possible. There is no side effects or strong caffeine-like reactions from consuming giddy yoyo, just pure enjoyment. To find out more see here.

Why Cacao?

The cacao bean is one of nature’s highest sources of magnesium and antioxidants, it is also high in iron, vitamin C, zinc, manganese, chromium, copper and fiber. Kind of like a multi-vitamin? It is also beneficial to your cardiovascular system, prevents against cancer, can balance blood sugar, lower cholesterol and makes you happy as cacao contains trytophan which is key for mood-enhancing and overall feeling good!

Now that you know why chocolate is so good for you,  I want you to have the chance to try one of these amazing bars.  I only have a few bars to give away, so please tell me why you are worthy of a giddy yoyo bar.

What you need to do to win is:

Comment below – tell me why you love chocolate or why you want to try some giddy yoyo.

Follow – Follow me on Twitter or become my Friend on Facebook and share this link and comment there.

Share – Post this link on Facebook and Twitter - linking post or tweet to me.

Like - Delicious Knowledge and giddy yoyo – and share on both of our pages.

 

Who ever shows the most activity and the most love – will win one of the 6 bars that I have to give away.

 

 

 

Abby’s Review on Bunners Bakery

When you start to ween yourself off of white sugar and refined flours, your taste buds change (actually, they change every three weeks!).  I’m not sure how I’ve been in the natural health field for almost three years and never heard of Bunners Bakery in the Toronto junction.  Their vision is awesome: a vegan bakery full of yummy goods without the use of eggs, butter, milk, wheat, soy or refined sugar.  What could be better?

 

A few weeks ago they were promoting their vegan cream eggs.  Now, for a lot of people when Easter comes around it’s all about the Cadbury Mini Eggs.  For me, it was always the Creme Eggs.  I would buy two at a time and enjoy the fondant centre as slowly as I could manage before popping the whole chocolate shell in my mouth.  Heaven.

 

Once I learned about the not-so-heavenly ingredients in the eggs, I bid a sad farewell to my much-loved Easter treat.  Clearly, I had to make a trip to the junction to try these novel vegan eggs.  They were good!  I think I had this idea that they would taste just like the Cadbury version, and obviously they didn’t, because they used real ingredients.  While it wasn’t quite everything I’d built it up to be, it was still delicious.

 

My girlfriend and I tried a few of their other items as well: Chocolate Chip Creamie (two chocolate chip cookies with vanilla bean frosting in between), Supersonic Gypsy cookie (oats, seeds, raisins, chocolate chips… definitely my favourite!) and the Vanilla Bean Cupcake.  They were all yummy, even my non-holistic friend agreed!  I have to admit that I found the icing was bit too sweet, but for those of you who are still on the white-sugar kick I’m sure it’ll be perfectly satisfying! They use agave nectar there, which I suspect has something to do with it.

 

All in all, I’d definitely recommend checking them out.  The staff are super friendly and helpful (especially if you have no idea where you’re going and need some help figuring it out.. which is exactly what happened to me).  It’s a bit out of the way, but if you have an afternoon free, make the trip.  The junction is a great up-and-coming area in Toronto.  There are lots of natural or organic stores and restaurants popping up over there!

- Abby, the Assistant

3054 Dundas W St (in the Junction), Toronto, ON M6P 1Z7
Email: info@bunners.ca
Phone: 647-352-2975

http://www.bunners.ca

 

So… what’s the story with soy?

This recipe will be featured in my Amazing Asian Class tonight and again on October 24th!

It is a topic of great interest, fear and confusion all at once. SOY! Perpetuated by the media and others alike as a food to stay away from, with or without cancer – soy has been deemed as unhealthy and on the no-no list. I can totally appreciate this to a certain extent. But because of all the confusion and mis-information, I would like to give you some insight from my perspective. Also backed up by Dr. Mercola!

Traditionally soy has been used in Asian and Japanese cultures as a condiment. Something you include as part of a meal that is loaded with protein, fat and immune enhancing properties. Nowadays people include soy as the main part of their meal.  Not to mention soy has also been added to so many commercial products including milks, cheese and other packaged products as a stabilizer or enhancer. Then there was and still is the health craze that soy foods are so good for you and people in general, along with vegetarians are purchasing anything and everything with soy thinking they are on the path to health. But that is just it, that is the way of the North American culture. Have a little = good, have more = better! But not when the soy that is used in the commercial industry is non-organic, genetically modified and so fractionated out it it’s original form, that it is no  longer a food. No wonder cancer rates have gone up!

So it’s not that SOY is bad for you, it is the type of soy that we are choosing or over consuming. It is about moderation and choosing the right kinds of soy.

If we look at the traditional fermented forms of soy and choose to eat them in moderation – we can actually enjoy soy foods as they are meant to be enjoyed, as a condiment, garnish or accent to a meal. It’s not about eating a slab of soy chicken or TVP (textured vegetable protein) that is the equivalent to a piece of chicken. Choose wisely.

Here are the forms of soy you can start to include that are healthful. Soy that has been fermented and is organic. These are the types of soy that are traditionally used in ancient cultures, and guess what, they are still available today!

Even though I am recommending healthy sources of soy, they should be enjoyed in moderation. Don’t just go and over-consume these items either or you will run into the same health imbalances and problems. Balance is key – and that goes for every type of food!

Tempeh: a fermented soybean cake with a firm texture and nutty, mushroom-like flavor. Enjoy in stir fries, on sandwiches, ground up into “burgers” or just as is!

Miso: a fermented soybean paste with a salty, almond butter-like texture. Make miso soup, put it in a salad dressing or marinate.

Natto: fermented soybeans with a sticky texture and strong, cheese-like flavor. Not too familiar with Natto

Tamari, Braggs or Nama Shoyu: which is traditionally made by fermenting soybeans, salt and enzymes. Tamari is the modern, healthy version of soy sauce. So be sure to kick out the kikkoman and replace it with Tamari. It is pure, gives great flavour, you can also get it as low sodium and wheat free! Great in salad dressings, sauces, marinades.

Also Edamame (whole soybeans) can be found on this list. They are not fermented, but they are also left in their natural form. Be sure to also buy these organic. They make an excellent snack with some sea salt! Or buy them shelled and load them into a salad or cooked vegetable dish!

On the bottom end of this list for a reason, is tofu. As I believe that it is something can be enjoyed VERY moderately if you buy the right kind. Moderately can even mean 1-2x per month!

Sprouted Tofu: It is apparent then when buying tofu to only get it sprouted. You can’t get tofu fermented as it is no longer in it’s whole form but at least sprouting it makes it more digestible and increases it’s nutritional value. Tofu need to be cooked and then it can be enjoyed in stir frys, sandwiches, salads, soups or pureed or blended into dips.

There is an incredible brand of soy products available that I want to make mention to as they actually take their soy seriously Wild Wood Organics. They have an array of products, but I would just keep it simple and stick with their tempeh and sprouted tofu. Soy yogurt and soy milk is still a packaged processed versions of soy food that I believe should be avoided. Rice milk and coconut yogurt are much higher on the healthy food chain. So choose wisely.

If soy still isn’t your thing or you have allergies to it, remember there are alternatives, the line Coconut Secrets condiments are all coconut based and can replace tamari like I did in my Pad Thai recipe!

Arame Soba Noodle Salad

What’s in it?

1 tsp dried basil

½ tsp dried rosemary

½ tsp salt

8 oz. spelt, kamut or buckwheat soba noodles (wheat or gluten free)

½ cup arame (sea vegetable)

2 cloves garlic

1 tsp gingerroot

¼ cup rice vinegar

¼ toasted sesame oil

3 tbsp tamari

1 cup chopped green onions

1 carrot grated

1 cup of toasted pine nuts or black sesame seeds

1 cup shelled and cooked edamame (optional)

How it’s made!

1. Bring large pot of water to boil, add basil, rosemary and salt.
2. Add noodles, cook until al dente (8-10 minutes) and drain.
3. Soak arame in 1 cup cold water for about 10 minutes, drain.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, vinegar, sesame oil and tamari
5. Add warm noodles to sauce and toss to coat.
6. Stir in carrots, onions and arame.
7. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds.

 

 

The Secret to my Pad Thai

You want to know the secret…it’s coconut. A modern day Pad Thai with pure wholesome ingredients and natural condiments. I would have to say it’s been at at least 6 + years since I have eaten a traditional Pad Thai, loaded with low grade oil, fish/oyster sauce and sugar – those ingredients are long gone from my diet. So the time has come to re-create my own version.

Let’s  talk about how Coconut plays a role in my version of a Pad Thai. A new line of favourites have made their way to the organic, raw, veggie market place. That is Coconut Secret’s Amino Acids, Vinegar and Nectar. (You can order them in Toronto HERE!) They are raw low glycemic, gluten free and highly nutritious, oh… and make your meals and recipes thrive with unique flavour. Each one has it’s own versatility and use. Coconut Aminos, can replace traditional soy sauce and even natural soy sauce like tamari. I do love tamari, but it is nice to replace it once in a while. Coconut vinegar can be used for salad dressings and sauces basically  anywhere that balsamic, brown rice, apple cider vinegar or any acid would be used. Now the Nectar which has truly become one of my new favourite ingredients is amazing to naturally sweeten desserts, pancakes, sauces, dressings, stirred into yogurt or a smoothie. It is light and has a gooey texture that is slightly addicting. They can all be used individually, but I decided to use them all together in a tangy sweet and savoruy Pad Thai sauce, that is truly like no other! As you may or may not know Coconut it’s recognition as a super ingredient, as it it is loaded with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals to find out more benefits look here.

 

 

 

As you can see, my bottles are empty….they were put to good use!

So that takes care of the sauce…but the base of my pad was none other than one of my other favourite  ingredients, kelp noodles. These can be found at several health food stores or restaurants in your local area. They come in a package and need to be soaked to be enjoyed. I took them one step further and threw them into my wok to soak up flavour and soften even more into my delicious Thai sauce. I had only ever eaten them raw before this, and now, I might just reconsider when and where I use rice noodles over kelp noodles! They are extremely light and easy to digest, they have no calories (not that I care), very little flavour and will adapt to any recipe you choose to use them with. So your options are really limitless.

Then I loaded this dish with a combination of veggies that just seemed to work. Sweet potatoes taste good in anything so those went into the pan. There always has to be some green veggies with my meal – so broccoli and kale it was for this one. I am not big on tofu and use it probably once a month if that, but when I do, it’s got to be sprouted and organic – I take no risks when it comes to Soy and GMO’s. Wildwood has a great brand that I actually enjoy. To be honest, Ryan is the one who loves tofu – so the addition was really for him. I am more of a tempeh fan Then I topped everything off with some home sprouted mung beans, loaded with fiber, enzymes, protein and just bursting with crunch -to liven up each bite!

So there you have it. The secret is out. Now I encourage you to make this and report back to me!

Veggie Pad Thai

The Sauce:

2 tbsp coconut vinegar

5 tbsp coconut aminos

4 tbsp coconut nectar

2 tbsp almond butter

3 tbsp grapeseed oil

2 cloves of garlic, minced

2 tbsp ginger, grated

2 cups of yams, cut into thin chunks

1 head of broccoli, cut into florets

1 bunch of kale, chopped

3 scallions, chopped

1/2 block of sprouted tofu, cut into cubes (can also use tempeh)

1/2 cup sprouted mung beans

1 package of kelp noodles, rinsed and soaked in water with 1 tbsp lemon juice or 1 package of brown rice noodles

1. In a small bowl, combine the coconut vinegar, aminos and nectar, almond butter and 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil. Set aside.

2. In a wok, satuey the tofu, garlic, ginger, scallions and yams in 2 tablespoon grapeseed oil for several minutes, stirring to prevent them from sticking.

3. When yams are soft, stir in the broccoli and allow to soften.

4. Pour the sauce and the kelp noodles into the wok, stir to combine and cover for a few minutes to meld together.

5. Add in the chopped kale and allow to wilt for a few minutes, while still remaining green.

6. Gently stir the noodles into the vegetables and sauce to combine. Remove from heat and serve.

Garnish with mung bean sprouts and chopped scallions.

Attention Chocoholics Everywhere! There is hope.

Welcome my Guest Blogger today Sara Ouellette owner of Beyond Vitality!

As some of you may know, I have been living abroad discovering the world’s natural health products and superfoods.  For three years I traveled back and forth between Canada and the beautiful exotic country of Venezuela, finally moving there permanently this past September.  I loved discovering all the local superfoods, those that we up in Canada (no we don’t live in igloos), cherish so much!

I could go on forever about all the wonderful and nourishing treats from nature that Venezuela has to offer!  The many landscapes of this tropical warm country have everything including wild aloe vera plants, coconut, cacti, noni, papaya, sea weed, pineapple, pumalaca, cacao and much more!

Chocoholics…this is for you…so listen up!  The one superfood I want to talk to you about is real chocolate.  I’m excited to tell you that real RAW chocolate is indeed a superfood!  You can turn cravings for cooked, processed chocolate into super-nutrition instead. All chocolate is made from the cacao fruit.  Inside the cacao fruit are beans.  These cacao beans are used to make RAW, organic chocolate!

Cacao Fruit

I was fortunate to have seen the process in which cacao is produced.  I visited my friend’s organic cacao farm in the lush rainforest of Los Altos, Venezuela. How amazing is it that they produce their OWN chocolate!  Yummy!  Venezuelan cacao is the finest, rarest, most expensive cacao in the world.  The beans have a unique flavor.  In case you are wondering, cacao tastes similar to, yet BETTER than, Baker’s Unsweetened Chocolate. A natural sweetener can often be used in conjunction with your raw treat ingredients, such as raw honey, stevia, coconut sugar, agave nectar, banana or pure maple syrup.

The cacao beans are grown in the mountains using no pesticides, fertilizers or chemicals of any type.  The trees in which the cacao fruit grows are irrigated by the fresh water that runs down from the clouds in the forest-topped mountains. Once the beans have been harvested they are sun dried right on the small property in the mountains, and hand packaged for local consumption.

Sun Dried Cacao Beans

When looking for cacao or raw chocolate in health food stores, it’s very important to look for fair trade and organic varieties that support small, indigenous farmers in Central/South America and the West Indies.

So why is it ok to LOVE raw chocolate?  Well, first off, it tastes divine.  And second, it’s good for you.  The cacao bean contains a wide array of amazing nutritional properties.  It is filled with antioxidants and alkalizing minerals, including high levels of magnesium and sulfur. Back in high school, I used to crave EVERYTHING chocolate uncontrollably…mostly processed chocolate (aka Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Nutella).  Processed chocolate is NOT the same as good quality raw chocolate!  When cacao is cooked, most of its nutritional properties are completely destroyed.  Chocolate cravings often indicate a magnesium deficiency because your body is craving the magnesium from the cacao.  Processed chocolate never satisfies your body because it has close to NO minerals and it’s filled with refined sugar, which is acidifying in the blood and actually leaches out minerals from our bones and tissues!  Since I started consuming quality raw cacao, I haven’t yet had another “processed” chocolate craving.  Really…it’s been over two years now!

The cacao fruit is sweet and tasty.

A study by the Center for Health and Nutrition

Elaborates the following findings: “Analysis of the fruit powders demonstrated that the antioxidant capacity of cocoa powder was significantly greater than blueberry, cranberry and pomegranate powder on a per gram basis. The total polyphenol content of cocoa powder appeared to be greater than acai, blueberry and cranberry powder; however these differences did not reach statistical significance. The total flavanol content of cocoa powder was significantly greater than all of the other fruit powders tested.”

Not only is it high in antioxidants and minerals, cacao may also increase your focus and alertness, making it a good healthy alternative to your morning coffee.  I love adding cacao to my breakfast shake.  Who would have thought chocolate would be “healthy” option for breaky!

Cacao also contains plenty of nutrients that keep you happy J Chocolate is often associated to love and seduction. This is all because cacao contains phenylethylamine. Also, your brain produces a neurotransmitter called Anandamide when you’re feeling GREAT. Eating cacao makes this neurotransmitter stick around longer thus increasing your happiness.  Raw cacao beans, nibs or powder can be used in a variety of ways.  I like adding it in baked goods, oatmeal, shakes. and to make a cup of hot chocolate to warm up on a chilly day.

Try out my favorite morning shake that uses cacao as your wake-me-up “stimulant” instead of coffee.  It’ll start you out on a positive vibe and leave you full of happy energy!

Cacao-Banana Dream Shake  (aka the “Happy Shake”)

1 scoop sprouted vegan protein (or 100% natural whey protein isolate)

2 tbsp of ground flaxseed

1 tsp raw cacao powder [makes you happy]

½ medium banana [increases serotonin to give you a natural “high”]

½ cup organic almond milk (or hemp milk)

¼ tsp natural vanilla extract (optional)

Blend all ingredients while adding water and ice as needed.  Serve fresh.  ENJOY!

Real Life at the Whole Life

When you are as immersed in the nutrition and wellness field as I am – it’s hard not to classify yourself as a junkie. Most of the time, it’s for personal pleasure and just plain old keeping up to date with the latest! But more often then not, things are loaded on my plate? (No pun intended). Meaning – because I am in this line of work, people naturally approach me and ask all kinds of questions. Which is great, keeps me on my toes – but sometimes I don’t have the time or all the answers. That is why it is important that people empower themselves and become their own junkies. Find out what’s real and what’s not.

Which is great to a certain extent. We are in at age in society where we have everything we need available at our fingertips. Almost everything can be found online, in a book, magazine or health food store. This can be confusing and overwhelming though, as there is SO MUCH information out there. I’ll admit, it is tough when you are sitting at home by yourself trying to sift through articles, books and web pages…so why not get off your butt and experience your health in real life!

If you have the opportunity to go to a venue where all like-minded individuals and experts in the field come together for a weekend to bring you all of their wellness services, products, specialty foods and more – then why not take advantage. What I am talking about here is the…

Annual Whole Life Expo 2010

It is  at Metro Toronto Convention Center (North Building) – there will be a plethora of goodies to choose form, a range of talks, lectures and workshops to attend – and you may just get to experience whole health at first hand in person.

So on November 26, 27 or 28^th – come and make it out to the show. I will not have a booth at this show – but I will be there walking around, schmoozing and saying hi to all my like minded “nutrition junkie” friends!

Or if you are committed to BOOK YOUR TICKET ONLINE NOW -  post a comment below letting me know you did so and you will get 10% off your next Fully Nourished Cooking Class!

Hope to see you there!

UPDATE: I HOPE YOU MADE IT OUT THIS WEEKEND!

If you didn’t, here is a brief description of what you missed and what you can look forward to the next time you attend. I came on Friday night and again on Sunday. One day is never enough, especially when I have so many people to say hello to and so many goodies to pick up. Some of my favourite people to visit and products to pick up are :

Natural Calm: My good friends Dale and Linda are the perfect team to represent this amazing product line. Natural powdered magnesium, relaxes your body, calm’s your nerves (literally) and makes for a nice elixir before bedtime. Having trouble sleeping and keeping your leg’s still? Then you need a daily dose of magnesium. I should also mention that you can only absorb the calcium in your body with enough magnesium. Dale and Linda are also the people who I went to Africa with in May. A large portion of their proceeds go towards Organics 4 Orphans – and incredible organization that supports communities in Kenya to eat more Greens!

The Fairy’s Tonic: Zoey is miss Kombucha herself. This is one of the tastiest fermented health promoting beverages you will ever drink. Just 1 oz, and your body and mind are buzzing. Sip before or after any meal throughout the day and your body will be very happy!

Vega: For incredible, raw, vegan, plant based supplements – Vega has it all. Bars, shakes, smoothies to go. You don’t need to think twice about getting healthy food in on the go. Vega’s products are so complete and well rounded, loaded with protein, fiber and slow burning carbs you will feel amazing all day long!

Raw Elements: My friends Dawn and Brent are behind this amazing company. They are my supplier for all good things raw from goji berries, probiotics to my favourite protein powder Sun Warrior. If you didn’t get any at the show, you can order online and use the coupon code MW007 to get 5% off your order.

Upaya Naturals: An incredible resource for all your raw supplements, foods and equipment. They are always up to date with the latest products. Even the incredible cashew ice cream I mentioned last week from Blue Mountain Organics.

Some new friends include:

Girlnola: Stephanie is just buzzing with energy. Her granola is packed with antioxidants and superfoods. She also makes yummy truffles that are delicious and make great little gifts especially for the holidays.

Nud Fud: With Julia you will get a collection of healthy, organic and even raw bars, chips and cereals. Loaded with whole foods like nuts, seeds, dried fruits and veggies.

Some other Fav’s

Mark and Bridgette’s Chocolate

Two Girls Cooking

Traditions Miso

Camros Eatery

Vita Mix

Prana

Live

The Benefits of Seeing a Nutritionist!

I would like to welcome Jillian Gile – our Guest Blogger for today…Enjoy!

We all try to eat healthy, but in this day and age the amount of information available to us can be downright overwhelming.  The list of must-eat and do-not-touch items can be contradictory, confusing, and misleading.  On top of that, if you’re eating a diet high in processed foods, you may actually be undernourished.  That is where a nutritionist comes in.

A nutritionist, or nutritional therapist, has a degree in nutrition and nutritional education.  This highly qualified individual will be able to determine what exactly your diet needs, what nutrients you might be lacking, and how to improve your eating habits.

One of the biggest benefits in seeing a nutritionist is, obviously, if you’re looking to lose weight.  Whether you have a slow metabolism, need calorie adjustments, or need more information on what makes a food “healthy,” a nutritionist is able to help you.  Reading labels can be a good step in the right direction, but a nutritionist has expert training that can show you details you may have overlooked.

Hand-in-hand with weight loss come vegetarian diets.  Many people choose to cut out unhealthy foods by simply focusing on eating only vegetarians and plant-based proteins.  Celebrities tout this style of diet, but what they’re not telling you is that they have a team of nutritionists and chefs keeping their nutritional needs balanced.  If you’re looking into becoming a vegetarian, you may want to schedule an appointment with a nutritionist to make sure you aren’t overlooking any important diet supplements or health issues.

A good diet can boost your immune system, cut down on sickness, and even ease PMS symptoms.  Nutritionists can do a variety of tests to see what nutrients you need to bring about these changes.  Diet changes can bring about a huge change for a variety of maladies, like anemia, heart disease, or digestion problems.

If you are an athlete, trying to become more active, or training for any sort of activity, a nutritionist might be able to give you the energy boost you need to reach your next goal. As you become more active, your dietary needs will change – you’ll need more calories, more protein, and maybe even more fat in your diet.  A nutritionist can show you exactly how to keep up with your body’s needs.

Allergies seem like the realm of pollen and cat dander.  Over-the-counter remedies abound, so why drag a nutritionist into the mix?  You may not be aware that food allergies also exist, and come with symptoms far beyond sniffling and sneezing.  A nutritionist will be able to improve your health and daily life simply by pointing out remedies you didn’t even know you needed.  If you have any unexplainable symptoms, it might be time to see a nutritionist.

Nutritionists can also point out medicine interactions that you didn’t even know existed.  Did you know that hormonal birth control can interfere with caffeine metabolism?  That cranberry juice can inhibit certain kinds of infections?  If you’re looking for some natural remedies, or worried about the efficacy of your prescriptions, a nutritionist can point you in the right direction for the best health.

Most of all, a nutritionist acts as a coach.  They are available to teach you how to make healthy decisions, learn how to cook healthy meals, and discover healthy alternatives to old favorites.  Even if you don’t have any special health or diet concerns, a nutritionist is able to provide you with great recipes that might really shake up your family meals. If you are trying to make a change in your life, using a nutritionist – in addition to seeing your doctor and even a personal trainer – can be the boost you need to really see results.

Jillian Gile is a guest blogger for An Apple a Day and a writer on earning your online nursing degree for the Guide to Health Education.

Are you a nutritionist?

Do you see a nutritionist?

What have you learned, conquered or healed?

Apple Cider in all it’s glory!

 

Just the word Apple Cider makes you feel all warm and cozy, especially this time of year. But apple cider doesn’t just mean a delicious drink that you sip on that is pipping hot, it also includes a nutritious wonderful vinegar that has more health benefits than I can keep track of! Both are pure extracts from organic apples that produce incredible products for our health, appetite and enjoyment!

Apple Cider Vinegar:

There are many varieties out there, so I am going to help the confusion and direct you to Filsingers which is a local Canadian brand.  They have the purest products I have ever tasted. Their vinegar is fresh, pure unpasteurized and unfiltered. Which means nothing has been done to it along the process. You are getting their own certified organic apples, which are pressed and aged without preservatives or additives. In case you didn’t know this Apple Cider Vinegar has been used for centuries to help with a variety of ailments because if it’s powerful cleansing qualities. Apple cider vinegar is a naturally occurring antibiotic and antiseptic.

Used in:

Home Body Remedies: for skin, wounds, burns, acne, sunburns, insect bites

Weight Loss and Metabolism: I don’t like to promote “weight loss”, but apple cider can speed up your metabolism, making your body more efficient at burning energy (place 1 tbsp in a glass of water and drink first thing in the morning or throughout the day)

Home Cleaning: this may be an expensive way to clean your house, but apple cider vinegar makes a great disinfectant, deodorizer and over all household cleaner

Food and Recipes: Apple cider vinegar is an amazing addition to salad dressings, stir fry’s, and can be used to add acid (or make buttermilk) in recipes such as cookies, pancakes and muffins

(If you are not local to Ontario, just be sure to look for products with similar standards – Bragg’s, Eden, Spectrum etc..)

Sweet Apple Cider:

Filsinger’s sweet apple cider is made the old fashioned way from whole apples. They blend several varieties of apples such as McIntosh, Cortland, Spy, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, and Ida Red. Using a variety of apples according to them enhances the flavour. They also don’t use any preservatives or additives in the preparation of the final product.

“Since 1953 our soils and trees have been balanced with seaweed extracts, trace minerals and compost. Our apples are grown without the use of chemical herbicides and pesticides. We are certified organic by OCIA International.”

Sweet Apple Cider can be enjoyed:

Warmed up with a cinnamon stick any time of day! You can have apple cider cold as well, but it just isn’t the same. So if you can, warm it up in a pot, sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg and a large cinnamon stick. Get into your comfiest clothing and curl up on the couch in from of a fire!

Filsinger’s also makes amazing: Applesauce and  Apple Butter

Sweet Apple Cider Dressing

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup Filsinger’s apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp  Filsinger’s sweet apple cider

1 tbsp local honey

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp ginger powder

Place all the ingredients in a blender or small processor and blend until well combined and creamy. Tastes delicious on spinach or arugula with fresh sliced apples, walnuts and hemp seeds!

If you have never used or tried Apple Cider Vinegar, now is your chance!!

Tell me why, what and how  you would like to use it and you just may win your very own bottle of Filsinger’s Apple Cider Vinegar

(You must be able to pick it up in Toronto)

Here’s how to win!

Post A Comment Below

Mention It on Twitter and Follow Me

Mention it on Facebook and Become a Fan

At the end of the week I will do a lucky random draw – good luck Torontonians!

Are You Preserved?

I recently posted about my approved list of packaged food, so now you know what to buy when it comes to healthy snacking! These are packaged foods that are safe by my standards and are not heavily processed or loaded with sugar, salt, and preservatives. The confusing part here is knowing what to look for on packages. How can you decipher on your own whether or not something is safe and good to eat? Most people (I would like to think) know there are things added to our foods, but don’t really know what they are or the impact they have on our bodies and long-term health. In fact, most people believe that food additives serve a beneficial purpose and are good for our products and our health.

Well, let me assure you that this is not the case. Additives do way more harm over the long term and often even in the short term. More than 300 food additives, preservatives, flavourings, colourants, and other ingredients are added to foods in Canada. As a result, most Canadians spend 90% of their money on processed foods that are loaded with these additives. Even though they are legal to use, they are not necessarily safe. Here is a breakdown of some additives and their effect on your  long-term health!

• Sodium nitrate
• BHA and BHT
• Propyl gallate
• Trans fats
• Asparatame
• Acesulfame-K
• Food colourings ( Blue 1 & 2, Red 3, Green 3, Yellow 6)
• Potassium bromate
• MSG

Does that list sound appetizing? I didn’t think so! Most of these are found in anything from baked goods and chewing gum to chicken soup, cereal, lunch meats, vegetable oils and potato chips. If you eat a highly-processed diet, you are exposing yourself to cancer-causing toxins at every meal!

Also be mindful that some additives may mimic your hormones. According to the Chemical Journal of Toxicology, there are 31 potential estrogen-mimicking food additives, known as xenoestrogens. These chemicals are linked to all kinds of human health effects, including reduced sperm counts in men and increased risk of breast cancer in women. The food you eat can also directly affect your behaviour and mood. Don’t we have enough natural stresses in our life that affect our emotions? Do we need our food to contribute to that too? I think not!

Processed food is also high in sugar and starchy carbohydrates, which can lead to excess insulin release, followed by falling blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia. This can lead to agitation, depression, anger, anxiety, panic, and even an increase in risk of suicide. Once again, it is baffling that we have complete control over this and yet people still eat processed foods. You can choose the potato chips, soda pop, or fruit juice or you can simple choose to live more naturally and additive-free. You will feel better, look better, and may just preserve yourself naturally and live to a ripe old age!

Meet Bamboo – Love Bamboo – Share Bamboo

Exciting news! As of recently I have become the food editor for Bamboo Magazine. It is an online resource for everything natural, organic and green related to your health, beauty, fashion and lifestyle. You will also get other special tidbits, tips and resources along the way. My main pieces as you can imagine will be recipes and other foodie related posts. So for your own viewing pleasure – please visit the site, see what’s new and in style or how to make yourself beautiful. It is an all in one online resource and I sure you will be pleased with what you will find!

I will always be posting yummy delicious recipes along with some wellness and lifestyle articles – but even more exciting, is that I will also be featuring other contributors to make each post as balanced and exciting as possible!

If you are interested in contributing – if you’ve got something to share, showcase or discuss, please contact me! I want to feature you, your product or what you’ve got to say. This can be anything from recipes, to delicious foods you’ve tried or restaurants you enjoy or anything else related to nutrition, wellness and health. You will have the chance to submit your pieces to me for my review and it may just get published!

So please come forward and let me know if you want to be featured!

Good Things Come in Some Packages!

On the topic of healthy snacks this week (and just in time for school), it is within my knowledge to show you what is out there. Snacks that you can get your hands on that I approve of. We all need snacks, they are available, but we have a choice to make. If you have a guideline to follow of what to choose, how to choose, then you are taking one step closer to wellness and a healthy body! In a another post you will learn how to make your own snacks at home. You can also come to my Delicious Snacks class in September and get a chance to learn some recipes and walk out of the class with your very own Delicious Snacks cookbook!

As a general rule, you want to look for whole foods that are packaged. Pure ingredients made from whole grains, nuts, seeds, dried fruits and natural sweeteners. You should be able to read all of the ingredients on the label (and there shouldn’t be more than 5 unless it is jam-packed super bar) and feel confident that you are putting a good product into your body even though it is packaged!

So here is a my approved guideline for healthy packaged snacks (most of which are in my home):

Bars: Lara Bars, Vega Bars, Pro Bar, Honey Bar, Prana Bar, Organic Food Bar (there are more that aren’t listed here, but hopefully you get the idea)

Rice Cakes with Almond Butter

Sun Warrior or Vega Protein Powder with Almond Milk, Hemp Milk or Rice Milk

Salba Smart Chips and Salba Salsa

Sha Sha Ginger Snap Cookies

Halvah

Pita Break Spelt Crackers with Hummus

Mary’s Crackers with Goat Cheddar

Sheep Yogurt with Granola

Whole Grain Bread with Almond Butter

New Moon Kitchen Cookies

Coconut Bliss Ice Cream

Go Raw Cookies/Chip/Crackers/Granola

Trail Mixes made from Navitas Naturals Products

Raw Crackers and Kale Chips

Dark Organic Chocolate

Raw Dark Organic Chocolate

Herbal Tea

Did I miss anything? I am sure I did. What are some of your amazing, wonderful and healthy snacks that you like to buy ?

Please do share, we all want to hear them!

Get  your very own copy of my  Delicious Snacks for Everyday Enjoyment to make your own healthy snacks at home!

Fun at the Food Fair- Revised!

Yes that is right…I was at the Toronto Vegetarian Food Fair again this year on September 10th-12th! Both this year and last year were a hit! Between my booth and my cooking demo, I had the chance to meet so many wonderful and amazing people!

If you made your way out to come and visit Delicious Knowledge at the International Marketplace, then thank your for your support. Many of you asked your questions, and got some answers. I also had many people sign up for some Delicious upcoming Fall Classes and my Fall Renewal Retreat. Both of which have more spots to be filled!  I had lots of goodies, including Glass Straws, Sun Warrior Protein and yummy Superfoods! These are just some of the things that you can get when you come to one of my cooking classes in Toronto!

Did you see me at My Cooking Demo on Saturday September 11th at 1:30 pm? If not, my post on Delicious Snacks will be up tomorrow for your viewing pleasure along with the recipes I made. Many of which are from my new delicious snack book!

Super Delicious Snacking For Everyday Enjoyment!

Everybody loves to snack! However we are all too reliant on picking things up on the go that are not healthy for us whether loaded with sugar, salt or fat. They leave us feeling tired, sluggish and bloated. Through this workshop Marni will teach you how to make some healthy, balanced and simple snacks so that you can have them on hand during the week.

I was also part of a Panel on Vegan Baking on Sunday September 12th at 6:00 pm

Cruelty-Free Baking Basics – A panel with Marni Wasserman, Lesia Kohut and Meghan Telpner!

How do you make perfectly light and luscious baked goods without eggs, milk and butter? Join three professionals bakers to hear their tips and tricks. Winning recipes from the Totally Fabulous Vegan Bake-Off will be shared.

Here we talked about all things Delicious. With pastry Chef Lesia from LPK’s Culinary Groove who talked about some of her skilled baking secrets along with her favourite gadgets. And myself and Meghan discussed how we  just love to make tasty desserts with healthy ingredients no matter how they look along with our favourite secret ingredient – Coconut Oil!

I also want to give a special thanks to Lisa Pitman who organized all the events at the fair and ensured that they all ran smoothly!

It was an amazing weekend – and I had so much fun meeting new people and just enjoying the Toronto fresh air outside! Can’t wait to do it again next year!

Did you come to the food fair?

If so, what did you love about it this year?

Confessions of a True Foodie

Some may call me a picky eater– but they don’t really know what’s going on. Yes it is true, have my likes dislikes which may come across in a rather food snobbish manner, but the truth is I have formed my valued and educated opinion over many years about what and why I like to eat what I eat! I have been doing this for so many years now that it is second nature to me. I always get asked, How do I do it? How do I stay so committed ALL the time?  Don’t I ever cheat or crave something? Well the truth is no. I don’t. I have no need to. I am not only am I so aware of all the healthy alternative that exist, but I also know how to make them. Anything that I may be craving or wanting, I know how to make the healthy veggie – even vegan or raw version of it. So I am not left feeling deprived. I think that is why I am a teacher, as I am passionate about sharing this knowledge so that others too can make or find the “healthy version” of the things that they crave or desire.

Also when I travel, my morals, values and dedication to being a foodie is the same.  Just because you are traveling doesn’t mean that you have to give in and eat crap because it’s too hard to stay on track. I don’t look at the way I eat as staying on track or following a diet plan. It is my way of life and I am proud of it. Those who know me well, know that I am that girl who will bring her own food to a dinner party,  always have spelt or sprouted bread on me just in case it needs to be dipped or create my very own menu item at any given restaurant. That way I can still dine out at restaurants and enjoy my meal. I can also be found in the airport munching on kale chips, flat bread or scooping the flesh out of an avocado. As I said, I don’t settle and I don’t give in. There are no excuses. When food is as important to you as it is to me – there is no other way! It may sound extreme – but this is me, and how I live my life everyday.

I prepare all of my meals pretty much all of the time. I rarely eat out or pick up on the go. So that is why it is nice to get away once in a while and be spoiled by healthy and delicious options when I am traveling. It also gives me some inspiration to go back home and create with some new ideas!

I was just in Los Angeles, visiting my brother, Dan Wasserman (a chiropractor in Santa Monica) and together we explored all the yummy places to eat out there. Luckily he is on board with me, and I don’t ever have to feel judged around him as he likes to eat the way I do. So together we dined at several tasty places. I am going to share my experiences and pictures here – the foods I encountered, the desserts I indulged in – all while being happy, healthy and active.

Real Food Daily – a definite must when coming to LA.  It has everything that a vegan wants to eat. Whether you want to be adventurous with a cashew cheese pizza or go simple clean with brown rice, kale, tempeh and miso soup along with a slice of their rustic corn bread with miso tahini spread. This is one of my all time fav’s!

The Best Corn Bread in Town!

Sweet and Savoury Miso Soup

Cashew Kale Corn Meal Pizza – Scrumptious!

Kind Kreme – A new discovery and truly heaven on earth as far as frozen desserts go. The absolute BEST vegan, raw ice cream I have ever had. They had everything from soft serve to several varieties of hard scoops. A cute quaint little spot near Universal Studios. I wish more places like this existed. If there is one thing I loved for dessert while grown up it was frozen yogurt – so this satisfied all my needs as far as dessert goes. I can’t even compare it to anything else I have ever had.

Coconut Cashew Choc-Vanilla Swirl with Dark Chips

Planet Earth - in Hermosa Beach. A cute little raw lunch cafe. All of 10 items on the menu – so there was definitely a lot of love put into each item. We had a yummy pesto cracker appetizer  and a raw burger on sprouted bread. It was somewhat hearty, the bread and burger were rather tasty with a unique flavour and lots of texture.  I was pleasantly satisfied and would definitely come back.

Rahel’s Ethiopian - My brother and I discovered this amazing little place on Fairfax in little Ethiopia a few years back. It is the only vegan restaurant on the block. I can be easily turned off of ethnic foods, simply because they are meat-centered, loaded with dairy and often spicy. Well not here! They are more than accommodating (especially for me and my lack of palette for spicy foods), they have so many items to choose from and they also now feature a tasty gluten free injera bread. I can truly eat here without any worries. Oh and don’t forget to order the mango juice or a thai young coconut to sip on between those spicy bites! (see picture at top)

Cru – Loved it here. A small raw, vegan cafe that features very specific items that are all crafted beautifully. It was hard to decide what to have. But I settled with a mezze platter with a fig dip, beet and apple salad, kale slaw, cashew cheeze and cucumber salad – served with flax crackers it was totally scrumptious! Of course this was a green juice paired with my meal as well.

M Cafe - This is one of my favourite spots to stop for a simple, clean macro meal. They always have fresh salads, veggie nori rolls and lots of other items. This is a great place to stop if you are on the go as the food comes out rather quick and it always tastes fresh!

So as you can see – LA makes it very easy for me to eat well. There are so many amazing places to choose from. I know not all destinations are not as well equipped as LA, but you have to do your research. The next stop for me on this trip was to Scottsdale and Sedona Arizona. This happens to be a frequent destination for my family and I am always on the lookout for new places to eat. I gave a little intro to Scottsdale restaurants last year with some of my usual destinations like TRUE FOOD KITCHEN – but this year I have discovered a few more!

Luckily I was here with my foodie buddie and good friend Marti Wolfson from Culinary school in New York. So there was no doubt that we weren’t going to eat well and make sure that our “bellies” were totally satisfied. We had the chance to discover some new places along the way…from a juicy tempeh burger to a raw falafel platter and gluten free pizza we had our fair share of delicious meals. Unfortunately, I don’t have any pictures to prove this but you’ll just have to take my word. Then the other night I was lucky enough to discover a new restaurant in Scottsdale called Nourish – which I literally stumbled upon after doing a search for “vegetarian Scottsdale”. So excited to have found this place! They have a wide menu with lots to choose from and a one-of-a-kind coconut ice cream for dessert!

Okay, that pretty much wraps up my trip. I don’t really like to eat out this much, but when I am traveling or on the go, this is what takes place and the choices that I make. Food comes first (sometimes)…. as I love to eat and I love to discover new things all the time. It may have seemed  like I was indulging – but it was all healthy, clean and delicious! I have also been continuously active – swimming, hiking, biking and yoga! Of course there has to be a balance…and on that note I am actually looking forward (after being so inspired) to making some home-made meals and post some new recipes when I return back to Toronto!

Are you a foodie? If so…please share!

Muskoka Cooking Fun – Get on the right path at Wellpath!

I am honoured to be part of the Wellpath Team.  They are a thriving and successful wellness clinic that is based here in Toronto. Their philosophy is rooted in holistic health with naturopathic medicine being at the very core. With prevention as the key and driving force, they are also all about lifestyle. Which of course includes, exercise, nutrition and everyday activity! I met with Richard porter back in February, and there was a plan to open up a location in Northern Ontario in Port Carling. He was immediately keen to ask me to re create my delicious classes in this new facility. I was more than excited to take this on. Who wouldn’t want the opportunity to go up north (especially when you don’t have a cottage!) and teach about eating local, fresh and organic foods? So if I love teaching these classes, then people must love attending them! Which they do. So far we have had two successful classes. The first one was our launch – where we focused on summer fresh recipes. Things that local cottagers and dwellers of Port Carling could easily make throughout the summer. We had a combination of delicious and fresh dishes like collards wraps, wild rice, white bean dip, sauteed garden greens and of course my yummy chocolate avocado pudding recipe for dessert!

Rolling up Zesty Mango Collard Wraps!

Prepping the Citrus Wild Rice

Then in last week’s class our theme was garden fresh Italian. which is always a favourite. Lots of yummy garden greens – from my garden, fresh herbs and other local produce. It was a hit! We made a yummy spelt goat cheese pizza, pesto pasta with white beans, a vegetable tomato sauce and raspberry sorbet for dessert.

Spelt Pizza Crust in the Making!

Raw Raspberry Sorbet with Cacao and Mint

Both classes were a success and I am looking forward to the other ones that are planned for the rest of the summer. New dates for the fall and winter will be posted shortly. We will be taking the fun back here in Toronto as well. Hope you can make it out! If you are interested in participating – please contact the Wellpath Clinic Directly!

Me, Richard and Chelsey!

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