Ayurveda is the sister science to yoga, and literally translated means: “The science of life.” Its foundation lies in adapting our lifestyles to be in sync with Mother Nature. Ayurveda thinking asserts that the microcosm is a reflection of the macrocosm: our human bodies are merely a reflection of the greater elements of the Earth. When nature transitions to fall, so should we.

One of the most drastic season changes we experience is summer to fall, especially with climate change. It’s not unusual to see an 80* temperatures one afternoon and a morning frost the next. These months can be unpredictable. In California, fall means fire season, which creates a lot of stress and anxiety. Other parts of the country are subject to wild fluctuations in temperature as well as unstable weather patterns.

The best thing we can do to balance ourselves and temper these transitions is to ground ourselves. We can eat, exercise and create daily rituals to center us and create more stability in our bodies and minds.

A traditional Ayurvedic cleanse does not insist that you drink only water or juices. In fact, according to my favorite Ayurvedic cookbook, Eat-Taste-Heal: An Ayurvedic Cookbook for Modern Living by Thomas Yarema, abstaining from food or water for extended periods of time depletes bodily tissues, leading to imbalance. Instead, Ayurveda asks that you nourish yourself, not only with your food choices but with your daily habits.

One of the staples of an Ayurvedic cleanse is a dish known as Kitchari. It’s a simple, easy to prepare dish consisting of spices, basmati rice, and mung dhal. Kitchari is easy to digest and nourishing for all systems of the body. (See the recipe below.) It is a balanced meal comprised of complex carbohydrates, plant proteins, and little fat. You can try a Kitchari-mono-diet for two to three days to begin with, which will cleanse your body of toxins but leave you with enough energy to still work out and feel full. If you feel sustained and not depleted from this, you could extend the cleanse a few more days. This is not about weight loss or punishing yourself for a weekend of too many holiday sweets. Just the opposite – this is about genuinely nurturing yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Whenever I do a cleanse or even just commit to a simpler way of eating, I notice how much more time I have on my hands. I can redirect the massive amount of brainpower I typically use to contemplate my food choices throughout the day. Those of us who are concerned about what we put in our body or are following a restrictive diet become prone to analyzing our meals ad nauseam.

Giving ourselves some boundaries and sticking to a “mono-diet” of one type of healthy meal like Kitchari for a few days simplifies our decisions, and can help us become more aware of our thoughts around food. We have more time to tune into our internal compass. This space may be uncomfortable, at first leading us to reach for our phone or the TV remote control. Instead, I recommend using the time to fill your creative well. Take the time to do what you have been craving: Write, even in your journal, draw, paint, craft, or start a meditation practice.

This time of year the light is gorgeous: Go for a walk in nature. the more active you are the easier the transition between the seasons can be on your body. Try a dance class or do something outside of your normal routine.

Be kind to yourself. Take a long bath with essential oils (my favorite are from Floracoepia – try a lavender and tea tree oil combo with Epsom salts.) and light some candles. Use this time to get quiet and hear what your body is telling you. Heed nature’s direction and go to bed earlier, since just as we changed the clocks. Change your own personal habits to match. Wake up with the sunrise. Follow the rhythms of Mother Nature, and you will find more balance and ease within yourself.

Kitchari

This is a fairly traditional Kitchari recipe used for cleansing or when you feel the desire to simplify your diet.

Ingredients

Instructions

This should make about 2-3 servings. You can usually find split yellow mung dhal in bulk in a health food store or online. Store any extra in a glass container in the fridge for no more than 2 days. Ayurveda cooking does not recommend eating lots of leftovers, as the vitality and nutrition of the food are decreased the older it gets.

Also, you can ‘jazz’ up a basic Kitchari if you’re not doing a strict fast, but simply looking for an easy meal. Often I’ll sauté a small cup of onions and add carrots and parsnips or sweet potatoes which I add to the rice and dhal, but otherwise, continue with the recipe as is. Sometimes, I throw in kale and coconut milk towards the end of the cooking process for a more indulgent stew. You can also add different spices. If you look up ‘Kitchari’ online you’ll find a bunch of variations, so have fun and enjoy this nourishing cleanse your way!   

The post Try this Detox to Feel Calm and Energetic as the Seasons Change appeared first on The Beet.

Spring has sprung, the birds are loud and every day is filled with the vibrancy of new life sprouting everywhere. We can do the same for our bodies. Warmer weather invites us to shed some layers and become a little lighter. In this, the earth provides us with the means to do so: Abundant sunshine, warmer days, and food to help cleanse our systems and lighten our load.

Notice the foods that your body is craving right now. As the thermometer rises, we may be feeling naturally called to more smoothies, salads, and light vegetables as opposed to stews, heavy soups, and rich sauces. When you go to the grocery store, look at the produce first. What seems particularly alive right now? Seasonal Food Guide is an easy way to see what foods are currently abundant and ripe in your region.

In Ayurveda, we look more at certain ‘tastes’ of foods to support optimal health as opposed to the macronutrients of food. As the weather turns warmer and the light stays in the sky longer, we turn from foods that are oily, heavy, sour, and sweet – tastes that can ground us and keep us warm – to foods that are pungent, bitter, astringent, dry and citrusy – tastes that help cleanse the system and put a little more spring to our step. You’ll find Ayurveda is actually quite intuitive, as your body will likely crave more of these foods naturally.

9 Foods to Incorporate Into Your Diet to Feel Lighter

1. Arugula

One of my favorite greens, it is easy to distinguish this green from others by its bitter, peppery, and astringent tastes. Arugula is a great base for any salad, packed with calcium and vitamin K which both aid in normal blood clotting.

2. Artichokes

Rich in fiber and folic acid and vitamin C, artichokes are easy to prepare. Simply steam for about 20-30 minutes and begin to peel away the leaves to reach the heart.

3. Asparagus

This is one vegetable you’ll see pop up all over the place right now and with good reason. Asparagus is high in fiber and vitamin K. Roasted with a drizzle of olive oil and some salt and pepper is the easiest way to prepare asparagus.

4. Strawberries

Yes, the perfect strawberry can be deliciously sweet but it is also light and an excellent source of antioxidants. A great option for a light breakfast or a sweet treat.

5. Cruciferous Vegetables

These healthy veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are rich in folate and phytonutrients. Lightly steam them or roast them without excessive sauces or oils.

6. Radishes

Like arugula, the bitter and peppery flavor of radishes make them a springtime favorite. They can help detoxify the stomach and liver and are a natural diuretic, helping to cleanse the system.

7. Beets

All you have to do is take a look at the rich red color of beets to understand their power to support blood and circulation. They are also a great detoxifier and taste delicious roasted in salads.

8. Spring onions

This time of year, leeks and ramps are favorite ingredients of chefs who rely on local produce to create seasonal menus. Like their brothers and sisters, garlic and onions, they carry strong bitter and astringent properties.

9. Certain Spices

These can be used to assist the body’s cleansing process. Turmeric, ginger, black pepper, asafoetida (similar to garlic), cayenne, and mustard seeds are all supportive in ridding the body of additional phlegm and toxins (known in Ayurveda as ama) that may emerge this time of year. They also help support digestion. Consider adding these to some sauteed greens, making a homemade salad dressing with some of the ingredients, or experiment with a spice blend including all of these ingredients and sprinkle on some roasted vegetables.

In addition, intermittent fasting is a good way to assist the internal cleansing process of the body and prevent disease. Eating one meal a day in the afternoon is recommended with potentially a light breakfast such as fruit and an easy-to-digest meal at night like a green soup or simply broth. Try to recognize when the body is full and resist overeating.

All of these tips will help ensure, like Mother Nature, you are bursting with energy and vitality as you spring into spring and summer. For light, summery dishes, check out our recipes tab on The Beet.

The post Eat to be Lighter: 9 Foods to Add to Your Diet to Prepare for Summer appeared first on The Beet.

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OM Mushrooms Superfood creates its broths from mushroom superfoods such as shitake, lion’s mane, reishi, turkey tail (which is a mushroom), and cordyceps. The brand has two vegan varieties – a mighty mushroom blend, which is simple and earthy, and a miso variety, which has the savory satisfying flavor of the Japanese staple. Both are warm, nourishing, and sustaining with 7 grams of added clean protein sourced from pea protein. OM Mushrooms Superfood broths are unique in that they all leverage the natural umami flavor of organic nutritional mushrooms, which are fabulous in savory applications. They are designed to offer a great consumption experience and broad health benefits led by immune health.

Vegan Broth Helps Boost Immunity During Colder Months

Multiple studies link gut health to immunity: According to a review from the International Journal Of Molecular Sciences on the health-promoting benefits of edible mushrooms on gut health, the gut microbiota contributes to gut immunomodulation in tandem with both the innate and adaptive immune systems. “The important sources of prebiotics in mushrooms are non-digestible mushroom polysaccharides which can inhibit pathogen proliferation by enhancing the growth of probiotic bacteria in the gut.”

By adding a variety of mushrooms to the mix, a veggie broth can have the same gut healing properties that many bone broths claim to have. Mushrooms are loaded with selenium, Vitamin D, B vitamins, iron, and zinc, all key nutrients for boosting immune health and whether you use a packaged mix or make your own broth, these powerful fungi are a key component in nutrient-dense broths.

In addition, seaweed and turmeric can also contribute to stomach lining health and digestive tract, both of which easily can be added to your homemade broths. Aloe vera and fermented foods will also help heal the lining of the gut and adding them into your diet can help you steer clear of the collagen and animal products in traditional meat-based bone broths.

Personally, I love to pour my veggie broth late morning and sip on it as I would tea throughout the day. You can also have a cup as a sustaining snack or you can use the powdered mixes in recipes to create a more savory nutritional meal. Try this satisfying recipe for creamy mushroom cauliflower soup with OM’s Mighty Mushroom Broth. I love to make my own broth to warm my home with the scents of nourishment using a recipe from Wallflower Kitchen loaded with veggie goodness.

Broths are a great way to feel healthy and strong all year long, and these vegan alternatives to bone broth pack all the taste and health benefits of the real thing.

The post Bone Broth, Without the Bone: Vegan Broths to Boost Immunity This Season appeared first on The Beet.

The Many Health Benefits of Cacao

The flavonoids found in cacao are extremely potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, with known mechanisms beneficial for brain and cardiovascular health. High in antioxidants (10 times more than blueberries), the cacao bean also can provide healthy doses of fiber (which can help regulate metabolism), potassium, and magnesium (both essential nutrients that keep our bodies in peak physical condition), and if you need it, theobromine, a mild stimulant that can provide longer-lasting energy without the jitters and crash of caffeine. This is why some people with extreme sensitivity to caffeine cannot eat dark chocolate at night. A recent study has also shown that theobromine has significant anti-inflammatory effects as well as acts as a cardiovascular protector molecule.

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However, your average chocolate bar is truly using only one part of the cacao plant – the bean. And there is much more than meets the eye to this nutritional powerhouse. So much so that Oded Brenner, at one point half of the well-known chocolate company, Max Brenner, now founder of Blue Stripes, started a company to promote and use the entire cacao fruit. On a trip to Jamaica, he discovered all the functional health benefits that were hiding in the “unknown parts” of the plant: the shell and fruit as well as the beans and felt called to share the wisdom and stories unique to the tropical cacao jungle tribes.

“There are endless culinary creations that can be made from the cacao fruit,” says Oded, who’s brand sells products like cacao water, powder, espresso, butter, and more. When I asked him about his favorite recipe, he replied, “the Almond Butter Keto dessert bites which are 100% vegan and made using the whole cacao – shell, fruit, and beans. I just can’t resist them!” I’ve had them and I must say, I wholeheartedly agree. They are so good and low in sugar, using allulose as a sweetener. It’s a perfect way to satiate the sweet craving without the sugar crash.

Other Innovative Uses of Cacao

Perhaps the most unique way to use this versatile fruit is the shell from which Oded created a flour product that can be used just as you would any other flour and contains all the functional benefits of the cacao in a concentrated way with an earthy flavor. You can use cacao shell flour to bread, pancakes, waffles, cookies, and even his newest experiment – pizza crust – putting two of the world’s best foods together in one recipe!

In case you are not yet sold on this amazing fruit, cacao is a natural mood elevator, stimulating the pleasure centers of your brain and encouraging the release of hormones and “bliss chemicals” such as dopamine, serotonin, and anandamide, which can induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. It is also rich in a substance called phenethylamine, also known as the “love drug” as it encourages the release of the same endorphins we experience when falling in love.

No wonder cacao was known as the “food of the Gods” by the Aztec and Mayan civilizations of Central America. Today, thanks to companies such as Blue Stripes and the resurrection of sacred cacao ceremonies, the cacao plant is returning to its status as one of Mother Earth’s sacred contributions to society’s healing and well-being.

Some great ethically-sourced chocolate brands both small and large that carry vegan options are Moka Origins, Blue Stripe, Endangered Species, and Hu Kitchen.

The post For Memory, Mood and Immunity, Eat More Cacao, Found in Dark Chocolate appeared first on The Beet.

Lemon: Packed with vitamin C, lemons contain citric acid which can reduce acidity in your body and gut, making you more alkaline. Lemon helps to flush toxins from the liver, so it’s excellent to add to warm water first thing in the morning as well. It aids in digestion, is hydrating, and also wonderful for the skin.

Ginger: Ayurveda refers to ginger as a ‘universal medicine’ because of its many medicinal properties. It aids in digestion and, very important right now, respiration. It can alleviate nausea and relieve hiccups as well as destroy AMA (toxins) in the body. It is also thought to improve brainfood– truly an herbal superfood!

Oregano Oil: A natural anti-biotic, this stuff is a potent, which you’ll notice upon opening a bottle! Like the two ingredients above, it can aid in digestion and from the smell of it, you won’t be surprised that it can kill bacteria and potential viruses. It’s also a potent anti-inflammatory.

Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV, as it’s known, has potent anti-microbial properties and is great for the gut. It can also help lower blood sugar and assist with weight loss.

Cinnamon: Like many of the above ingredients, cinnamon helps combat inflammation. It is loaded with antioxidants and has been shown to help balance blood sugar – perfect for those days when we overdo the carbs. (Potentially more and more often when we’re all working at home!) It’s also been shown to effectively treat respiratory tract infections caused by bacteria. (Source: Healthline)

The post Drink This Immunity Tonic to Feel Healthier in Mind, Body and Skin appeared first on The Beet.

I’ve spent half my adulthood creating tasty and (somewhat) healthy dressings, dips and drizzles for everything from grains to salads to roasted veggies. While it may be novel to eat all your meals at home during the first two weeks of quarantine, after a while, you may be looking for some ways to add different tastes and get creative with your staple recipes. I’m here to help by sharing some of my go-to concoctions that are simple yet delicious.

Dijon Dip

This one is so simple it’s criminal and works great as a dip for raw veggies or dressing for salads. Here’s what you need:

The post 9 Vegan Dip and Dressing Recipes to Spice Up Your Salads and Sides appeared first on The Beet.

Although I am Italian, pasta is surprisingly, not one of my go-to recipes, especially since I’ve found so many amazing substitutes I truly enjoy that contain fewer carbs. Fair warning: These pasta options are not made with grain substitutes so if you are indeed craving pasta, these may not satiate your desires. However, they can be enjoyed on a more regular basis without the density of calories or overstuffed belly that sometimes comes from carb overload.

I’ve been living off the kelp and shirataki noodles during the mandated Covid-19 quarantine, as they are shelf-stable and easy to prepare. These options are also gluten-free, so anyone with celiac or a gluten intolerance can dig in and enjoy these alternatives as well.

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1. Kelp Noodles

These are hands down my favorite alternative noodle. Made from the jelly-like extract left after steaming edible kelp, a type of seaweed, they are long and clear – almost like glass noodles. While crunchy when cold, kelp noodles will soften up when you cook them in liquid. (My favorite recipe is below). Best for Asian style dishes, they are low in calories but an excellent source of iodine – an essential nutrient for thyroid function and metabolism.

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2. Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini has been a fan favorite noodle substitute for years now, ever since people became leery of too many carbs in their diet. I find they taste best sautéed with olive oil and tomato sauce added.

The key to making perfect zoodles is to find a great spiralizer– a handheld kitchen appliance that allows you to turn the vegetable into noodles in no time! Click here for our favorite. You can also use your spiralizer to make noodles out of carrots, cucumbers or even beets! The options are endless with this handy tool.

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3. Konjac or Shirataki Noodles

These are becoming more and more popular for their almost zero calorie count and versatility. Made from the root of the konjac plant found in Japan, China and Southeast Asia, this translucent, gelatinous noodle contains glucomannan, a type of soluble fiber and is often dubbed “The Miracle Noodle.”

They are low in calories and contain almost no digestible carbs. Because of this, they also contain very little flavor making them ideal for dishes with more savory sauces such as pho, pad thai and stir-fries and are great companions to vegan protein add-ons like tofu or tempeh.

4. Spaghetti Squash

People have been using spaghetti squash as an alternative in different dishes for a while now, but it really can stand alone as its own meal. Coming in at only about 30 calories per cup with a decent amount of fiber, you can load up on spaghetti squash for a satisfying and filling meal, especially in the cooler months. It does pair nicely with traditional pasta toppings like tomato sauce or a vegan pesto, however, one of my favorite ways to enjoy this is with a vegan butter spread, nutritional yeast and some sea salt!

The post Reach for These 4 Gluten-Free Noodles When You Want to Cut Down on Carbs appeared first on The Beet.

One of the messages the universe is sending us is how important it is to take care of ourselves. If nothing else, the silver lining is that we know what’s really important is to prioritize our health. Try to focus on getting 7 or 8 hours of sleep a night (okay, I’ll even be happy with 6 hours for any Type A personalities out there). Another is to think of the health benefits of the food that we choose and to eat more whole plant-based foods that are as close to heir natural state as possible. That’s where the lowly mushroom comes in. A nutritionist called them the “Disease-Fighting Stars” of the produce aisle for their powerful pack of antioxidants and vitamins in one tiny nutrient-dense bite.

The Unsung Hero of the Produce Aisle: Mushrooms

While there is no better way to pump up your body’s natural immune-boosting abilities than to pack your diet with healthy plant-based foods, most people overlook the mushroom, which is which are unsung heroes of a healthy diet. Add them to salads, soups, breakfast scrambles, pasta—basically anywhere you can, to slow aging and reduce the risk of disease, and reap the benefits. The powerful mushroom has been helping humans since ancient times.

Clinical studies show that mushrooms have benefits that range from improved cognition to weight management, and lowered cancer risk. Preliminary evidence suggests that mushrooms may support healthy immune response, lower inflammation and, through interaction with the gut microbiota, improved immune cell functionality. In other words, mushrooms are very, very good for you.

Ancient civilizations have been using mushrooms as medicine. They contain protein, vitamins, antioxidants and now play a role in traditional medicine. Researchers believe the antioxidant content in mushrooms may help prevent lung, prostate, breast, and other types of cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute.

What type of mushrooms are best? According to Angela Lemond, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics interviewed by Time.com: “Oyster and shiitake mushrooms have the most fiber (at 2g per serving), and raw maitake mushrooms and portobellos exposed to UV light are among the highest in vitamin D. White mushrooms are sold with enhanced levels of vitamin D. Ultimately, though, any mushroom is a good choice.”

Supplements with Mushrooms Have Grown in Popularity

Mushrooms such as shitake, reishi, cordyceps, chaga, turkey tail, and lion’s mane are all names of varieties of mushrooms you should look for in any immune-boosting formula, or in their whole form.

Well-respected companies such as Host Defense and Sun Potion have been touting the benefits of mushrooms for decades and are experts in the field of mycology, the branch of biology concerned with the study of fungi. Newer companies such as Four Sigmatic, OM Mushroom, and Moon Juice have begun to make supplements with mushrooms to enhance our diets.

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Most of the companies carry an immunity blend that combines the most potent combination of medicinal mushrooms specifically designed to help support and strengthen your immune system. I would try to find these in stores or online. In-store may actually be your best bet because most people shopping at grocery stores – even healthy ones like Whole Foods – don’t immediately grab mushroom products. Try a specialty health food store or online markets such as Thrive Market, Vitacost, or Amazon, where you may be able to get notified when they’re back in stock. Virus threat or no, you’ll be happy to have them as a staple in your pantry.

Once you get your hands on some, start ‘shrooming daily. Here is a recipe that I’ve been adding to my daily routine.

The post The One Thing You Should Be Eating to Boost Immunity Now: Mushrooms appeared first on The Beet.

But I love the idea of powdered greens for a quick on the go nutritional boost. They are a tremendous addition to any nutrition regime, especially a vegan one. However, blending some dirt-like tasting green concoction with water often makes me gag. Minerals help the body function at optimal levels, and at the very least, add a mineral water a day to your regime.

This easy-to-make creamy drink masks that, well, green taste of a veggie-based mineral powder. (A few of my favorite brands are Healthforce, Sunfood, and Dr. Schulze’s)

It’s easy to bring on your commute, or put in the fridge at work and sip throughout the day.These rich, sweet and creamy drinks almost make it feel like a drinkable dessert or even a light meal replacement for when you’ve had a big day of eating the day before or are trying to hold off for a celebratory evening dinner.

Try either of these two variations on the same drink for when you’re in the mood fo a chocolate drink or more inspired by a mint flavor! And pssst—don’t tell but you can even make these without the green powder for a protein-filled sip. 

Creamy Green Dream Mineral Drinks

Cashew Milk Base

¾ cup raw cashews soaked overnight
10 -12 oz. cold filtered water
2 tsp. Mineral Green powder 

Creamy Mint Dream – ADD:

1-2 drops peppermint essential oil
1 Tbsp. maple syrup OR 5-10 drops liquid stevia
Dash Himalayan Pink Sea Salt

Creamy Salted Caramel Chocolate Dream – ADD:

1 Tbsp. raw cacao powder
¼ tsp. Himalayan pink salt
5-10 drops English Toffee Stevia 

Store in a glass bottle and chill well before drinking. Keep in refrigerator for no more than three days.

Your Guide to The Best Plant-Based Protein Powders: We Tasted 9 Bestsellers

1. Vega Protein & Greens

The base of Vega is pea protein, brown rice protein, and sacha inchi (a seed eaten like a nut) protein. One serving of Vega has only 80 calories and 15g of protein. Vega’s protein powder is a great choice for anyone who struggles to get enough greens in their diet. The proteins are combined with alfalfa powder, spinach powder, broccoli powder, and organic kale powder giving you 2 servings of veggies in one scoop. The taste of this protein was described as “artificial” whereas others thought it tasted like birthday cake. We recommend adding this into a smoothie, but luckily all you have to add is fruit since Vega has the greens covered. This low-cal powder won’t break the bank at $1.20 a scoop.

2. TB12 Vanilla Plant-Based Protein

Tom Brady’s TB12 pea protein powder consists of simple ingredients with no additives. For anyone who is allergic to soy or nuts, TB12’s pea protein-based powder is a great option. It’s hard to say no to this powder with 24 grams of protein. Don’t hide this powder in a smoothie, mix it with water and you will immediately see a thick consistency resembling a vanilla milkshake. Not only does it look like a milkshake, but it tastes like it too. TB12 recommends drinking this powder up to 20 minutes after a workout for the best recovery. You have to order this powder on the TB12 website since it isn’t available in stores or on Amazon. Less than $2 per serving!

3. PlantFusion Complete Protein

PlantFusion is a blend of peas, artichokes, algae, and superfoods. The deep yellow-gold coloring of PlantFusion’s protein powder set this brand apart from the rest. Some testers found the flavor wasn’t overwhelming, making it a great addition to a smoothie, whereas others felt the powder was sweet. For those of you who aren’t a fan of Stevia, buy the natural, no-stevia blend. This protein powder is low in fat, and carbs, making it a great choice for anyone wanting to lose weight while still getting enough protein (21g a serving). PlantFusion’s powder has a sweetness not everyone enjoyed since Stevia is an ingredient. $1.20 a scoop, makes this a deal!

4.Vivo Perform

Vivo Perform is the most superfood-packed protein powder of this bunch. Athletes will appreciate this protein powder made of pea protein, hemp protein, plant-based BCAA (branched-chain amino acids), reishi mushrooms, acai berries, lucuma fruit powder, maca powder, and turmeric extract. Vivo Perform is $59 on Amazon so go straight to their website for a cheaper price at $51 for the pouch pictured below. With 25g of protein and complete amino acid profile helps athletes to build, perform, recover, and absorb. If you want a quick protein drink after a workout, use a shaker bottle when mixing or this powder will stick to the sides of the cup. In the mood for a protein-filled breakfast? Add to your oatmeal or smoothie bowl with this recipe.

5. Elevate Plant-Based Performance Protein

Elevate is a pea and hemp protein-based powder that also is made with sweet potato powder. For anyone looking to convert from whey protein powders, Elevate is the plant-based protein for you. This powder is meant to be used in beverages such as smoothies. The thin consistency doesn’t mix well with water and becomes chalky. If you aren’t in the mood for a protein smoothie, add a scoop to your pancake batter. For a complete recipe check out Elevate’s Chocolate Chip Banana Protein Pancakes. This powder is another affordable choice at $1.60 a scoop.

6. Momentous Absolute Zero

Momentous protein powder is a combination of pea and rice protein concentrate. Testers liked the initial scent of mint and thought it was refreshing. This powder is perfect for anyone who likes sweeter drinks. Momentous powders are NSF International Certified for Sport, which means the product label is 100% accurate and there are no banned substances present in this powder. This is one of the pricier protein powders at $60 a tub but is worth it for athletes looking for a clean and effective post-workout powder. We recommend either mixing with water or adding to a smoothie for a more nutrient-dense drink. The priciest powder of the bunch at $3 per serving.

7. Garden of Life

Garden of Life is made of pea, buckwheat, amaranth sprout, and brown rice. We didn’t love the green color of the powder or the way it smelled but once we mixed it with water, it tasted surprisingly good. Garden of Life is the easiest to mix with water, plan-based milk or in a smoothie. The vanilla flavor isn’t overpowering so you can add this to any combination of smoothies and not be overwhelmed by the taste of vanilla. And it’s only $1.20 per scoop!

8. Tone It Up Plant-Based Protein Vanilla

Tone It Up protein powder is a blend of sunflower seeds and pea protein. The minute we opened the container, everyone loved the smell of this powder. Tone It Up is known to be a great addition to baked goods. The next time you make your protein muffins, add Tone It Up to the mix. We don’t suggest adding this powder with just water but instead a smoothie with fruits and veggies.

9. Nuzest Clean Lean Protein

The name of this powder says it all. Nuzest is the cleanest protein powder since it is made out of only 3 simple ingredients: Pea protein isolate, natural vanilla flavor, and thaumatin (a low-calorie sweetener). For $45, you are supposed to get 20 servings out of one container, but at a glance that didn’t seem accurate. This high protein, low carb powder is perfect to blend with plant-based milk and ice. The consistency is smooth and adds thickness to any protein shake.

The post How to Eat Your Greens Without Having to Power Through the Spinach appeared first on The Beet.

According to Brooke Sullivan, yoga teacher, herbalist and founder of the Wild Temple School of Yoga and Herbal Wisdom, flower essences are vibrational remedies or ‘energy medicine’, working more with what’s known as the subtle body, which refers to psycho-emotional and spiritual fields, as opposed to the physical form.

Flower essences are similar to homeopathic remedies, however, while homeopathy introduces small doses of diseased or poison tissues diluted into a water formula to stimulate the body’s natural healing process (much like a vaccination), flower essences are created by floating a specific flower in a bowl of water under sunlight. When the sun hits the flower, an alchemy occurs to make an imprint of a flower’s unique energy pattern into the water, imbuing the water with the plant’s unique healing potential. 

Sullivan says that flower essences are number one in addressing our emotions by transmuting our negative thoughts into positive ones to heal us from old patterned beliefs and wounds. They help us to make peace in our minds and hearts with a particular issue, situation, habit or pattern.

With the underlying belief that disharmony between the mind and body creates illness, Dr. Edward Bach, the founder of flower essence as a healing modality and creator of the most widely known brand of flower essences (including the ever-popular Rescue Remedy), meditated with plants and found by ingesting the dew of particular flowers, certain mental and emotional ailments could be alleviated. According to Bach, the unique qualities of a flower remind the soul of its most positive or exalted virtues. 

Flower essences are much more benign than essential oils which can, if used improperly, be poisonous, as flowers and plants, as we know from varieties such as poison ivy or certain mushrooms, are extremely potent. 

Those who are more sensitive to subtle body healing – think reiki, breathwork, acupuncture, etc. – are more likely to see immediate shifts in consciousness. For others, effects may take up to a few weeks. It depends on the density of someone’s physical body and mind and how attuned a person is to their energetic and emotional realms. Regardless, flower essences rarely induce negative side effects. The worst that can happen is that a particular essence may not be exactly the right remedy for the healing one seeks or that one is not quite ready to experience the healing. 

Personally, I’ve found flower essences to be extremely helpful when dealing with emotions such as fear, anxiety, and doubt. I am partial to the Floracoepia brand. Some of Sullivan’s favorites include Aspen (ideal for fear from the unknown), Star Of Bethlehem (ideal for trauma), and Oak (ideal for those who tend to power through life without much rest and need to learn how to simply be).

If you’re interested in learning more about the world of flower essences and their unique benefits, Brooke is offering a flower essence practitioner training course on her website at www.thewildtemple.com beginning March 15th. Readers of The Beet will receive a 10% discount with code Beet2020. 

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