MTHFR

I have MTHFR.  It's also known as methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase.  It's not a disease, rather it's a genetic mutation.  Most people have not heard of it.  I hadn't heard of it until just a few months ago when my blood results came back.  

I was told that I got one mutated chromosome each from both my mom and dad.  It is not uncommon to have.  Almost half of the population has it.  MTHFR means that my body is not able to accept the regular form of folic acid.  I need to take an activated form of folic acid, also called folate, Metafolin or L-5-MTHF, as my multivitamin daily.  

MTHFR manifests itself in so many ways.  For me it was connected to my debilitating fatigue but for others it can be linked to depression, anxiety, miscarriages, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and so on.

My son also has MTHFR.  I'm glad that we learned this early on because we are able to control possible health risks through proper diet and lifestyle.  Finger prick tests are available to check for MTHFR this way the experience is not so traumatic and taxing for the child.  Since Constantine has MTHFR he takes a daily multivitamin with folate.

Learning about MTHFR has helped me better understand my health condition.  If you have the mutation there is no way to avoid it but the beautiful thing is there are actionable steps you can take to improve your health.

Along with my multivitamin with folate, I currently take a powerful probiotic, liposomal glutathione, digestive enzymes, and ProOmega CoQ10.  These supplements are helping me to function on a daily basis.  It is best to consult with a functional medicine doctor because every person's needs are different.  In my case, there has been slow but steady progress.

As I have mentioned before learning about this mutation was a blessing.  If I had not seen a functional medicine doctor I would be on antidepressants now, which might have addressed my symptoms but done nothing to address the root cause.

Functional medicine is key to getting the health questions we have better answered.  Through the help of a functional medicine doctor we learn that consuming the right kind of foods is medicine and allowing proper rest and exercise is vital to living and feeling our best.  

---

Resources

A very helpful article series by Dr. Doni Wilson, NP, CPM, CNS

Functional medicine website  Find a functional medicine doctor near you.

A Story of Healing:  Detoxification and MTHFR

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“MTHFR manifests itself in so many ways. For me it was connected to my debilitating fatigue but for others it can be linked to depression, anxiety, miscarriages, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and so on.”

---

Piña Colada

Since it's becoming nippy outside I'm so motivated to cook and bake comfort foods.  Earlier this week I made clean chili mac and just the other day I cooked my mom's chicken adobo.  Both hit the spot.  

As I was cooking the adobo I noticed that I still had a good deal of pineapple juice in the refrigerator.  I decided to utilize it in a new shake creation.

And it came out perfect!  ¡Bellísimo!  

This shake is very easy to make and it has just a handful of ingredients.  I have to note that my shake has a very special, dear to my heart ingredient as it was handpicked from my maternal grandparents' backyard.  

Since retiring completely my mom and dad usually visit the Philippines every year.  At my maternal ancestral home there grows the langka (jackfruit) tree.  Luckily the fruit was ripe and ready to be picked when they were home last time.  Well, they brought it back with them and generously packed some for me.

I honestly did not know what to do with the jackfruit as it has been in my freezer for several months.  Somehow I remembered it and decided to add it to this new shake creation.  I fell in love with the flavors immediately.  It's got the right sweetness and texture.  

So here's my Piña Colada shake recipe.  We just discovered the Piñata apple at Whole Foods.  Try to find it as I think it's well suited in this recipe.  If it's not available, try Gala or Fuji.  

I like to have this shake in the morning, for snack, and even with my mom's chicken adobo.  Hers is a real treat so keep reading in the days ahead as I will post her special adobo soon!  You are going to love it.

---

Piña Colada

Ingredients (Use organic ingredients when possible)

1/4 cup organic rice milk or any dairy free milk

1/4 cup organic pineapple juice (I used Lakewood Organic)

3 pineapple chunks

1/4 cup frozen jackfruit (Native Forest sells organic young jackfruit in a can)

Half of an apple, cored and peeled (Use Piñata, Gala, or Fuji)

Directions

Add all ingredients in a blender and blend to a smoothie consistency.  There may be some tidbits of pineapple and apple so pulse for about 10 to 20 seconds.  Enjoy!  Makes one serving.

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“I have to note that my shake has a very special, dear to my heart ingredient as it was handpicked from my maternal grandparents’ backyard. ”

---

Simple Shakes

As a kid I loved to open a large bamboo trunk that my mom bought in the Philippines which contained rows and rows of music treasures.  I'd peruse through my mom and dad's old records and play some old time favorites on their record player.  One of my favorite songs was "Summer Wind" by Frank Sinatra.  I adored his voice and the catchy tune.  From time to time I catch myself singing the song to my little boy.

Last week certainly felt like summer again in the Northeast.  Just as the temperatures were beginning to dip, we suddenly found ourselves enjoying 80 degree weather in early November.  So I thought it's time to make some nice cool and yummy shakes to accompany that nostalgic feeling of summer days.

I'm going back to keeping shakes simple.  Sometimes adding too many ingredients and add ons results in a confusing concoction of sorts.  Let's enjoy the richness and simplicity of the flavors instead.

This time I'm sharing two simple shakes that take just minutes to whip  up.  These have really become staples since we are savoring them practically every day.

The first one is called Peach Cherry Jubilee.  This one makes everyone in the house happy thus its name.  It's smooth and naturally sweet because of the dark cherries and apple.  If you have body aches or pain and are tempted to reach for the Advil, drink this shake instead.  Eating at least six cherries is the equivalent of one Advil and it really works wonders!

My second shake recipe is the refreshing Mango Pineapple Delight.  We love this one a lot, too.  My son can't get enough of it and he's so picky. This one is high in fiber content and the mix of flavors is oh so good!  I love the combination of mango, pineapple, kiwi, lime, and a little maple syrup.

Lately, we've been using organic rice milk as our milk base since it's the only milk my son can drink at the moment.  We're using Organic Rice Dream, the non-refrigerated carton.  Though I am really tempted to start making my own rice milk as these milk brands contain preservatives and are not entirely clean.  Many milk brands contain xanthum gum which may cause people to itch or have digestive issues.  We noticed Constantine scratching a lot but once we eliminated all food sources containing xanthum gum his skin started clearing up.  Also, beware of other gums like guar gum as some people could be sensitive.

As I approach my one year anniversary of eating clean I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences and some of our favorite recipes with you.  Thank you for reading and following along.  As the weather gets colder stay tuned for my post on warm shakes perfect for the upcoming holidays.

---

Peach Cherry Jubilee Shake

Ingredients (Use organic ingredients when possible.)

1 cup rice milk (we like Organic Rice Dream, unrefrigerated carton) or any milk you like preferably dairy free

1/2 cup frozen peaches

2/3 cup frozen dark cherries

Half of an apple (we like gala apples) cored, peeled or unpeeled

Few dashes of cinnamon or 1 tsp

Directions

Blend all ingredients in a blender.  Enjoy!  A Blendtec or Vitamix blender works best.  Makes one to two servings.

---

Mango Pineapple Delight

Ingredients (Use organic ingredients when possible.)

1 cup rice milk or any milk you like preferably dairy free

1 cup frozen mango

6 frozen pineapple chunks

Half frozen kiwi

1 or 2 slices lime juice, about 1 to 2 tbsp

1 tbsp real maple syrup or to taste 

Directions

Blend all ingredients in a blender.  A Blendtec or Vitamix blender works best.  Makes one to two servings.

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“I’m going back to keeping shakes simple.”

---

Teal Pumpkin Project

Today is Halloween but trick-or-treating is already over for us.  Our township held trick-or-treating last Thursday night.  Unusual I thought.    I'm just glad I found out before Thursday, otherwise I wouldn't have had any treats to hand out!

This was the first Halloween in which we offered trick-or-treaters organic candy as well as non-sweet treats for the Teal Pumpkin Project.  Many parents appreciated this very much.  I think many parents are becoming more concerned with the huge consumption of refined sugar in children's diets as well as the growing number of food allergies and sensitivities.  At least a handful of parents told me their children had some type of intolerance.  Rice, nuts, dairy, and gluten were mentioned as problematic for their children.

What I learned from participating in the project is that it's not all about the candy.  The children were excited to be given other options besides candy.  We had a number of toys and even clementines in our Halloween bucket.  The kids loved the simple glow-in-the-dark eyeball bouncy balls, the colorful bat and ghost ink stamps, and the Halloween inspired bubble wands.  And all but one clementine was grabbed out of a bag of twenty.  I was thrilled!

The Teal Pumpkin Project appealed to me because my son and I deal with food sensitivities.  So surely we had to make this happen in our household.

Last week my little boy had to be withdrawn from the rest of his class not because he was misbehaving but because his class was celebrating a classmate's birthday with cupcakes.  He cannot have gluten and refined sugar among other things.   The teachers and I felt bad for him but it was for the best.

Preparing and cooking meals in our household is a challenge as we all have different diets.  My husband has no dietary restrictions but he is the only one.  Among the foods that Constantine and I avoid are gluten, dairy, refined sugar, eggs, nightshades (peppers, eggplants, tomatoes), and more.  I have at least twenty-eight sensitivities and my boy has twenty-three.  Thankfully, we do not have food allergies so even if we eat a little of these foods they are not life threatening.  

All of this food sensitivity business began with my ongoing chronic fatigue.  My functional medicine doctor recommended a plethora of specialized tests to get to the bottom of my health issues.  One of these tests is called the IgG food sensitivity test.  I am so happy that I had it done and got the test results because it helps take out the guess work in figuring the cause of inflammation in the gut.  Since making changes to my diet and avoiding the foods listed on the IgG test, I am feeling so much better.  

You can help spread the word of the Teal Pumpkin Project by participating.  It is really simple.  Go online and print out a sign for your door.  Paint a pumpkin or two with teal colored paint.  (We went to Lowe's, picked a teal paint and bought a small jar and paint brush.)  We also chose to purchase candy online at ThriveMarket.com since they carry healthy and yummy candy options.  We got the organic lollipops; 40 pieces for less than $5.  We also got some fun and cute Halloween toys from our local craft store.  That's it -- very simple and inexpensive!

I'm so thankful for the Teal Pumpkin Project as it's a great way to help raise awareness of food allergies and sensitivities and to make Halloween fun for every child.  My little boy had a blast giving away Halloween treats both sweet and non sweet.  And he had his share of homemade gluten free, refined sugar free, and dairy free bat morsel treats! 

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“What I learned from participating in the project is that it’s not all about the candy.”

---

Kite Hill

One of the most beautiful foods that I've ever had the pleasure of eating is cheese.  I've had a love affair with cheese since I can remember.  

After my son was born, I thought that it was a good idea to begin planning a family trip to Napa even though the plan was to go in 21 years once he was old enough to drink wine.  I thought that it could be a lovely birthday gift.  I dreamed of us feasting on wine and cheese.

Well, I don't see that happening in the future for us.  Sad but true!  

I have decided to strictly omit dairy out of my diet.  It's completely out.  And it is the same for my little boy.  (It's confirmed that he has food sensitivities as well.)

The exciting news is there's Kite Hill!  When I learned about this dairy free company that makes nut cheeses, I was captivated and had to try it for myself.

When we got the chance about a month ago, we drove to the closest Whole Foods.  Kite Hill is only sold at Whole Foods.  We drove about two hours.  

If you are curious and want to try, you need to go to the cheese section of Whole Foods.  I asked an employee and he said that the nut cheese brand is so popular that the store has been selling out.  I was in luck because they had the Soft Fresh Original (it's like mozzarella), the Ricotta (the store's bestseller), and the Soft Ripened (it tastes like brie).  They did not have the cheese spreads but those look really, really good!  

My favorite was the one that tastes like brie!  I can't remember the last time I had baked brie but this Kite Hill brie was so good that I finished it in two days.  I could have finished it in a day but I controlled myself, thankfully.

If you cannot have dairy and miss the taste of cheese, Kite Hill is the absolute best nut cheese available.  They recently came out with a dairy free yogurt line and a couple of prepared pastas.  

I can't wait till they open a Whole Foods closer to us!

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“If you cannot have dairy and miss the taste of cheese, Kite Hill is the absolute best nut cheese available. ”

---

To Snore Or Not To Snore

Isn't that the question?  Who else remembers studying Shakespeare in high school?  I had to memorize a whole stanza for ninth grade English class.

I remember reciting mine hundreds of times because of fear of blanking out and looking like a fool in front of the video camera, my teacher, and classmates.  My English teacher taped our performances for this particular assignment in which we had to recite the chosen stanza in its original form and translate it into modern day English.

When it was my turn at the camera thankfully I was able to perform my interpretation of Juliet without stumbling, passionately, loud and clear.  It's the scene in which Juliet is frantically begging the friar to make her a poisonous potion so she can already die because she thinks that Romeo is dead.  It's a very dramatic and intense scene indeed!

Back to the point -- snoring!  I read an interesting testimonial some months back that claimed that there may be a link between snoring and coffee. I know that so many people love their coffee and think that they can't live without it but cutting back or even going cold turkey, even for a few weeks, might be worth considering.

I can understand the love that people have for coffee.  It is warm, soothing, and comforting.  It's like  baby's milk for many but there are negative points that cannot be denied.  Coffee is highly acidic and addictive.  Most commercial coffee contains mold. 

Anyway, this woman claimed that her husband noticed that his wife no longer snored at night.  That's great for both!  The wife was able to kick the coffee habit and make healthier food choices and her husband can sleep peacefully at night!

As a suggestion, if you are looking to cut down on drinking coffee and are looking for healthy alternatives, there are some great options.  Maybe give any one of these a try for a few days and monitor how your body responds to the change.  It's a good idea to go slowly when you make diet changes and take note of any changes, if any.

One option is yerba mate.  Originally from South America, yerba mate was popular among the ancients because of its natural energy boosting effects.  The brand that we have at home is by Guayaki.  My husband Martin enjoys the chocolate flavor one a lot.

Another lovely choice is Dandy Blend.  This is a nice one if you don't have a lot of time.  Bring it with you to the office, pour some hot water in a cup, and add your Dandy Blend.  Stir and enjoy!  It can be drunk cold as well if you don't have hot water.  Made out of dandelion, Dandy Blend is caffeine free and very healthy.

The third coffee substitute is one that many former coffee drinkers love.  They swear that it tastes just like coffee!  So if you're one who has to have coffee every morning, Teeccino is the way to go!

So I ask again, to snore or not to snore...

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

---

Buy Coffee Alternatives

 Yerba Mate Chocolatte Dandy Blend Teeccino Dandelion Caramel Nut Teeccino Coffee Variety Pack

“I know that so many people love their coffee and think that they can’t live without it but cutting back or even going cold turkey, even for a few weeks, might be worth considering.”

---

Affiliate Disclosure - This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Functional Medicine

Two words -- functional medicine.  This has been the answer to the  questions I've had regarding my pressing health condition.

For nearly a year and a half I have been questioning, up late searching online for answers to my increasingly difficult and mysterious fatigue issues.  Could I have chronic fatigue or adrenal fatigue?  How will I ever recover and how can I take care of my family if I can't even take care of myself?  

How?   And why was this happening again?

After completing the Clean Program (once in December 2014 and again in January 2015), I felt better and found that my energy levels normalized.  However, by the end of April 2015 I found myself slipping back to complete uselessness.  My debilitating fatigue returned but this time with a vengeance!  I was pretty much stuck back in bed spring and summer of this year.  Traveling was out of the question and most Sundays I could not muster the strength to attend Mass.  

You could say that I was homebound.  My dear husband and son were on their own most days.  Martin was mama and daddy to our son as well as managed to work a full time job.  By the grace of God, he was guided and given the strength to persevere during those tough times.

I believe that our faith guided us to functional medicine.  I was curious about an ad on the back of the church bulletin that read "Center for Holistic Medicine".

I was familiar with functional medicine because I had learned about it in Clean by Dr. Junger.  In one of the last chapters, he highly recommends seeing a functional medicine doctor especially if you do not feel better after completing the Clean Program.  He asserts that this could mean that there are issues that need to be addressed before you can reach optimal health.

I looked up the doctor who heads the Center for Holistic Medicine on the functional medicine website and sure enough she was listed as an accredited functional medicine doctor.  

For those who have never heard of functional medicine, it is also known as integrative or holistic medicine which integrates western and eastern medicine.  Many functional medicine doctors were trained in traditional medicine but found drawbacks in their practice.  These doctors wanted answers to give to their patients and desired to delve deeper to get to the root of their patients' health problems.  The pill for an ill method was no longer a viable solution to help their patients' needs so these doctors have taken courses in functional medicine and are certified.  In my opinion you get the best of both worlds.  In this kind of medicine, west meets east, and with this awesome knowledge these doctors help patients get to the root of the problem.

No more patient packed waiting areas at clinics and no more short fifteen minute visits talking with the doctor.  Instead expected wait times are very minimal and one on one time with the doctor could last between 60 to 90 minutes!  (I spent 90 minutes at my first functional medicine appointment.)

I think that the above scenario is the most ideal.  Patients deserve better treatment methods and answers.  The beauty of functional medicine is that practitioners can recommend effective options other than over-the-counter drugs, prescription medicines, and surgery.  They can also administer specialized testing and get to the bottom of your health issues.

By no means am I downgrading western medicine.  Western medicine is needed for some cases as it can save lives as it has in the past for my own mom!  I'm saying that having knowledge in both western and eastern medicine can be very beneficial in determining the best course of action for patients.  

Over the next weeks I will be sharing my experience with functional medicine, my test results, and how functional medicine has helped me to the path of recovery.  

If it was not for the knowledge that I've gotten from functional medicine, I would be on antidepressants and possibly other medications right now.  Who knows what side effects these medicines could have caused?

I am extremely grateful to the Holy Spirit for leading me to functional medicine and to the functional medicine doctor who is treating me as well as my family and loved ones who support and love me.

In my experience functional medicine has been a Godsend.  If you are suffering from an illness or condition that isn't getting any better or can't seem to be diagnosed properly, I would encourage you to see a functional medicine doctor.   

Thanks be to God, I am definitely on the road to recovery as I feel that my energy levels have lifted and I can function on a daily basis.  As I am hopeful that I will make a full recovery in the months ahead, I will continue to give updates about my progress.         

---

Resources

Center for Holistic Medicine

Dr. Katarzyna Ferraro M.D. (Dr. Kathy)

9 Brookwood Avenue

Carlisle, PA 17015

Phone:  (717) 243-0616

Functional Medicine website

Clean Program

Dr. Mark Hyman

Dr. Frank Lipman

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

---

Bestselling Books On Functional Medicine

CleanClean EatsThe Blood Sugar SolutionThe New Health RulesReviveStress RemediesThe Stress Remedy

“No more patient packed waiting areas at clinics and no more short fifteen minute visits talking with the doctor. Instead expected wait times are very minimal and one on one time with the doctor could last between 60 to 90 minutes!”

---

Affiliate Disclosure - This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Super Clean Beef Tapa

My mom reintroduced beef tapa to me this summer.  Let me just say that her tapa is really awesome that I have to call it Super Clean Beef Tapa.  It is out of this world deliciousness!  

My mom was a stay at home mom until my brother and I started school full time.  I remember that she would often prepare beef steak.  She would make it with rings of onion.  This dish is similar but much more addicting.

This beef tapa brought back some nice memories.  Her recipe is all about the marinade.  She likes to marinate her beef overnight with lots of garlic, ground pepper, and organic apple cider vinegar.  No sugar necessary.  The results are marvelous.  If you're a meat lover you will definitely get your craving for beef satiated.

My mom likes to serve the beef tapa with fried rice.  So she simply uses the same pan to make the fried rice to include all of that yummy flavor from the beef.  Instead of achara (sweet pickled green papaya) I prefer to serve it with organic sauerkraut.  I like Eden Organic Sauerkraut a lot.  This stuff makes this whole dish worth it all.  Sauerkraut is a probiotic which means it's one of the best things to keep your gut health in check.  For those who watch their salt intake, take a look at the sodium content.  You could always make your own sauerkraut if you cannot find a low sodium brand.

Always choose grass fed beef.  Organic grass fed beef is the best choice.  

Beef tapa is wonderful for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.  If you need a bit of sweetness in your meal, just add green peas to your fried rice.  It gives it just enough natural sweetness.  Violà!  

Here's the recipe for you to enjoy! Don't forget to use organic, local ingredients when possible.

---

Super Clean Beef Tapa

Ingredients

Thinly sliced organic beef round (Get the largest size available if you want to make a lot!  Trust me, this tapa is so good that you will want more of it.)

4 large cloves garlic, crushed

Freshly ground pepper to taste

1/2 cup organic apple cider vinegar (I like Braggs brand.)

Extra virgin olive oil for frying

Directions

First, freeze the beef so that it's easy to slice thinly.  Once thinly sliced, marinate the beef overnight with the garlic, apple cider vinegar, and ground pepper.  When you are ready to fry your beef, warm the cast iron pan.  Add the olive oil.  Then preheat the oven to broil.  Start frying the beef on medium to high heat, depending on your stove top.   As you fry, keep turning the beef and cook until the liquid dissipates.  Put the pan in the oven to brown the beef for about 2 minutes.  Enjoy!  

Introducing The Joy of Sleep

Is your body asking for more ease and joy this new year?

What if now was the time to enjoy more sound and restful sleep?

Learn more here:

Join by Sunday, January 26, 2020 to get the special promo price!

---

Buy Favorite Clean Products

 Organic Sauerkraut Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar

“If you’re a meat lover you will definitely get your craving for beef satiated.”

---

Affiliate Disclosure - This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Best Berry Shake Ever

My son has to be the pickiest eater that I know!  Even when my parents had him for two weeks at their home they were dumbfounded.  My mom is the best cook but she called me a number of times to let me know she was cooking up a storm doing her best to feed the boy but he would only take a couple of bites and be done with eating.  Between my husband and me, we have a hard time feeding him.  

But lo and behold I think that I've found his favorite shake thus far!  I'm calling it the Best Berry Shake Ever because all of us in the family are really enjoying it.  Yesterday morning I made three good size servings and my son practically drank most of it leaving very little for his mama and daddy.  As long as he's eating healthy this mama is happy.  

This shake is adapted from the Blender Girl's Antioxidant Avenger Smoothie.  But my version is completely clean which means it strictly follows Alejandro Junger's Clean Program protocol.  I have found that I feel my best when I adhere to it so I'm pretty much on a clean diet 24/7.  For anyone who is dealing with chronic illness, autoimmune disorders, fatigue, or other ailments, thousands of Dr. Junger's patients and readers have found that his program works for them including myself.  

While talking to my mom about how my son just loves this recipe, she offered a really good suggestion.  Instead of ice cubes, add in frozen watermelon cubes.  She's so right!  Watermelon is high in glutathione which is the body's most important antioxidant. 

This shake is fantastic to help prevent colds or even if you are already under the weather.  It really has it all - fiber, healthy fat, protein, glutathione, vitamins, and nutrients!  It's packed with lots of fiber from the berries.  The ginger and cinnamon help boost the immune system.  I add concentrated chlorophyll into the shake.  Chlorophyll feeds the good bacteria in the gut so you want more of the good than the bad.  And it's hydrating from the coconut water and watermelon.  If you are nursing a cold, I recommend using fresh fruits so that the shake is not too cold.  Enjoy!  

---

Best Berry Shake Ever

Ingredients

1 1/4 cup coconut water, add more if needed

2 cups organic frozen or fresh blackberries, blueberries, and  raspberries

1 organic frozen or fresh pear, cored and cubed

1/4 tsp ginger, minced

1/4 tsp cinnamon

12 - 18 drops of liquid chlorophyll (I use ChlorOxygen.)

2 handfuls of organic baby spinach (optional)

1 tbsp chia seeds

1/2 - 1 cup frozen watermelon 

1 tbsp coconut manna

1 scoop hemp protein powder (I use Nutiva.)

Directions

Blend all ingredients preferably in a high performing blender like a Blendtec or Vitamix.  This shake serves two healthy glasses.

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

Favorite Brands

Alcohol Free ChlorOxygenNutiva Organic Hemp Protein

“This shake is fantastic to help prevent colds or even if you are already under the weather. It really has it all - fiber, healthy fat, protein, glutathione, vitamins, and nutrients! ”

---

Affiliate Disclosure- This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Hot and Spicy

When my mom recently cooked her sotanghon soup, my mind immediate flooded with Vietnamese soup memories at Eden Center in Northern Virginia.  My most unforgettable memory was eating a sandwich that had the hottest peppers in it.  I had no idea because the store folks didn't advertise that the sandwich was hot.  I took one bite and my ever so sensitive tongue and taste buds were under fire!  I hurriedly ran and grabbed a cold bottle of water from the refrigerator but of course that did not help and my mouth continued to burn.  

My youngest godchild loves hot and spicy food.  God bless him always.  I'm sure he would have loved that hot, spicy sandwich.  His dad is so passionate about hot and spicy and has been talking a lot about its benefits.  Actually, the whole family has a love affair with hot and spicy.  Always, there is hot sauce in their company.  

I think that it's important to vary your diet from time to time.  For me fruits and vegetables with excellent fats, high quality and organic protein, and healthy carbs are necessary in my diet.  As you have read above I prefer not to eat hot and spicy but I think that I should add a little once in a while.  Well-renowned functional medicine doctors like Dr. Alejandro Junger and Dr. Mark Hyman advocate eating spicy foods as long as they do not cause acid reflux.  I have found that some of their recipes incorporate hot and spicy ingredients.  It's best to chew food slowly and listen to your body as your body will let you know what you can tolerate.  

My mom's chicken sotanghon is a very versatile dish that can be eaten any time of the year especially during the cold months.  It's getting cooler in the mornings up north so this is perfect right now.  You can also make it as hot and spicy if you like.

This soup is unique from other soups because of two main ingredients -- saffron and Red Boat fish sauce.  Saffron is used in many Spanish and Filipino dishes like Arroz Valenciana.  It's a very precious ingredient as it is not cheap but it makes this soup really awesome and wonderful.  So I would say get it if you are going to make this soup because  it is so worth it.  The other ingredient that I highly recommend is the fish sauce by Red Boat.  This is the only clean fish sauce that I've come across as other fish sauces have unwanted preservatives and other unnecessary additives.  Red Boat is the Cadillac of all fish sauces.

This recipe is just right as a whole meal in itself.  Be sure to use chicken bone broth to get all the best health benefits.  Making your own chicken bone broth is best.  You can simmer your organic chicken bones for at least eighteen hours in a pressure cooker or slow cooker with your choice of seasonings like onions, garlic and some spices.  This process will crush the bones and break open all the incredible nutrients.  Bone broth is healing food for many who suffer gut problems, flu and cold symptoms.

Warning!  If you end buying your bone broth, it is very important to read the list of ingredients on the package.  I prefer Pacific brand organic chicken bone broth.  Many times the horrible ingredient MSG is deceptively included in many packaged foods.  Several months ago I caught it in a brand of organic chicken broth; the ingredient listing included yeast extract.  Yeast extract is another word for MSG.  My son is highly sensitive to MSG and breaks out in hives so you can imagine my frustration when I learned this.  

Here is my mom's so good for you and warm soup recipe.  This one is a good one to share with the whole family.  Remember to use organic ingredients as much as possible.  Enjoy!

---

Mom's Chicken Sotanghon With Saffron

Ingredients

3.75 oz bean thread noodle, soaked in filtered water till softened, then cut because the noodles are long (I used 1 package of Asian Gourmet Bean Thread Cellophane Noodles.)

4 or 5 medium garlic cloves, smashed and pounded

1 small carrot, julienned

2 small celery stalks, julienned

1 small onion, sliced

A bunch of leafy greens like Chinese broccoli, baby bokchoy, spinach, etc., optional

1 small organic skinless chicken breast, boiled on medium high for about 10 minutes or till chicken is no longer bloody; cooled and then shredded

1 pinch real saffron (I used Spanish saffron.)

4 cups chicken bone broth (I prefer Pacific brand chicken bone broth.)

1/4 tsp ginger, optional, more if you want your soup hot and spicy

Pink Himalayan salt to taste

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Red Boat fish sauce to taste

Directions

Saute garlic till brown.  Then add onions, ginger, chicken, carrots,  celery.  Saute for about 10 minutes.  Season with Himalayan salt, Red Boat fish sauce, freshly ground pepper, and saffron.  Add the chicken bone broth.  Let boil for 5 minutes then add the noodles and boil for another 10 minutes.  Add your greens last and cook for a couple more minutes till wilted.  

For a  spicy version, my godson's dad recommends adding green jalapeños, sriracha, red chili in vinegar, and/or red dried pepper.  

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

---

Buy Favorite Ingredients

Spicely Organic SaffronRed Boat Fish SaucePacific Organic Bone Broth ChickenBean Thread Noodles

“It’s best to chew food slowly and listen to your body as your body will let you know what you can tolerate. ”

---

Affiliate Disclosure - This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Chaga

Lately, I've been intrigued by the medicinal value of chaga.  Chaga has been described as the king of all medicinal mushrooms.  It grows wild on birch trees in cold climates like  Siberia.  It has helped people with numerous ailments like asthma, fatigue, allergies, and arthritis.  Some studies suggest that chaga can also benefit those suffering from more serious conditions like cancer and diabetes.  

Chaga has become my favorite go to tea for several reasons.  I enjoy the mildness as I do not like my teas too strong.  I love it for its health benefits.  I remember having a sore stomach one night so I made some chaga tea and drank it.  Within thirty minutes I felt so much better!  I love the soothing quality of this tea!

Chaga is very easy to make and drink.  I drink it hot almost every day and have given it to my two year old with a little maple syrup and ice.  I've included a video that highlights all sorts of information about chaga below.  It's worth a look!

---

Video

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

Buy Chaga

Maine Chaga Tea ChunksChaga: King of the Medicinal MushroomsMaine Chaga Extract

“Chaga is known as the king of all medicinal mushrooms.”

---

Affiliate Disclosure - This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Organic On A Budget

It can be frustrating making the switch from conventional to organic local produce.  My family started off slowly choosing to buy organic for the most heavily sprayed fruits and vegetables first like berries, apples, and green beans.  

I think it's important to consume organic, local whole food primarily because it is produced without chemical fertilizers.   It does not contain any trace of chemicals that might affect the body negatively. Conventional produce is often sprayed with harmful pesticides, such as organophosphorus.  This is an unnatural mineral compound that has been connected to a variety of developmental problems including autism and ADHD.  Organic local produce is loaded with the richest nutrients possible.  Who doesn't want that for themselves and their family?

Listed here are my very best tips to shop organic on a budget.  We are still learning to manage food consumption and to limit spoilage.  Planning weekly menus does help along with these tips.

CSA

Don't forget your local CSA or Community Supported Agriculture.  Even if you did not sign up before the season started you can always check the CSA farms or local farmers' market near you.  You should be able to find some delicious organic fruits and vegetables.  Find a CSA near you here.

Amazon

Amazon is a favorite way to shop.  Since we are Amazon Prime members we get our orders in two days or less.  I love that!  If you ever take the time to browse Amazon, you can notice that prices get discounted from time to time.  Instead of having to log in to Amazon every time to check a price, I use camelcamelcamel.com.  It's free to sign up.  This site allows you to track any item on Amazon so you set your desired price and you wait.  Camelcamelcamel.com will send you an e-mail notification once your item meets your desired price.  This works really well if you are not in a hurry to purchase items so it pays to plan ahead!   

Thrive Market

I recently discovered Thrive Market, an online discounted membership that sells all kinds of healthy, organic, gluten-free items.  It's sort of like an online Costco/Whole Foods except without the fresh produce.  I highly recommend Thrive Market because the prices are really reduced compared to what you would find at the local grocery.  The first month is free to try out and afterwards you can choose to become a member.  We get a lot of our pantry essentials from Thrive Market like organic spices, organic brown rice, almond and coconut flours, and so much more.  It's really worth the annual price if you utilize a lot of organic ingredients like we do.  If you are interested in becoming a member, join through my link here.

Mambo Sprouts

Coupons make a big difference so I signed up to receive e-mails from Mambo Sprouts.  From time to time I see a coupon of an item that we need and it's so simple to just click and print.  Click here to sign up!  I learned about Mambo Sprouts when I used to shop at MOM's Organic Market.  The grocery market normally had some Mambo Sprouts coupon books in the front of the store.  Your local grocery may carry these coupon books, too.

Driscoll's Panel Surveys

We don't compromise with berries.  We always buy organic because the skins of these fruits are too thin and delicate.  Sometimes you can get away with buying conventional like bananas.  My family and I love and eat berries every day so taking the time to complete surveys is a money saver for us.  It takes no time at all.  You sign up on the website, enter your email address, enter the code found on the back of the Driscoll's berry container, and answer the questions about your experience with Driscoll's berries.  Once you complete a survey, you receive a coupon by e-mail.  The more coupons you complete, the more you save.  

Commissary Privileges

If you have commissary privileges, by all means use that to your advantage.  The Commissary has an organic section in the produce area.  Also, they carry pantry essentials like gluten free items, raw honey, real maple syrup, coconut palm sugar, as well as organic eggs and milk.  If you don't see what you are looking for, inquire.  My mom and dad use to special order their water.

These are my top tips on shopping organic on a budget.  If you have any helpful tips, I'd love to hear from you!

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“My family started off slowly choosing to buy organic for the most heavily sprayed fruits and vegetables first like berries, apples, and green beans. ”

---

Berries

It's important to change up my shakes from time to time.  Not too long ago I gave my son his regular shake and to my dismay he didn't touch it.  Now, he is two years old and getting super picky these days.  (He always asks for milk, that's goat's milk, and raisins.)  So when he just wants to eat those two things, I throw my hands up in the air in frustration.  Oh!  What's a mama to do?

Luckily, I quickly figured out that he he's like his grandma.   He still enjoys shakes but he has to try new and different concoctions.

I was craving something different for breakfast this morning.  So I peeked in the refrigerator, the freezer, and the pantry, and I just took some items out.

I was in the mood for blueberries and blackberries.  I love them because they are full of wonderful nutrients and antioxidants.  So I came up with this berry coconut shake with some really good for you toppings.  I love it and hope you will too!

---

Crunchy Blueberry Blackberry Coconut Shake

Ingredients

3/4 cup coconut milk beverage, unsweetened

3/4 cup organic frozen blueberries

1/3 cup organic frozen blackberries

1/2 small banana

Dash of cinnamon

1 tsp coconut flakes, unsweetened

1  to 2 tsp flaxseed meal

1 tsp chia seeds

1 tbsp coconut oil

1 tbsp coconut manna

3 ice cubes

Toppings (These add crunch to your shake so please don't omit.)

Toasted coconut chips lightly salted, to taste (I use Dang brand.)

Raw chocolate cacao nibs, to taste

A few organic blueberries (optional)

Directions

Add all of the ingredients in a blender and blend till smooth.  Pour it into a glass.  Then add your toppings.  You can also include a few pieces of fruit like blueberries.

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

---

“I was in the mood for blueberries and blackberries. I love them because they are full of wonderful nutrients and antioxidants.”

Dates

Medjool dates are a godsend to many who strive to eat a clean diet and at the same time have a sweet tooth.  Since eating clean I still crave desserts big time!  I still love eating cookies, tarts, and cakes but the trick is to stay away from store bought sweets.  Even if the label says sugar free I don't trust it.  (That normally means that there are fake additives like Splenda which actually gives you sugar spikes.)  It's way better to make your own treats with the highest quality ingredients you can get your hands on.

One of the key ingredients to use in making sweet baked goods or sweet shakes is medjool dates.  Medjool dates are fabulous because they are more plump and taste better than regular dates plus they have a number of health benefits like much needed nutrients and fiber.

My family and I start our mornings with a delicious shake.  One of our favorites reminds me a lot of ube (pronounced oo-bay) which is a purple yam.  I like to call it the purple dinosaur because the color makes me think of Barney.

The Purple Dinosaur

Ingredients

1 cup of unsweetened almond milk (I like Silk or Whole Foods brands)

1/4 cup coconut water

1 cup organic frozen blueberries

1 tbsp raw almonds

1 tbsp raw almond butter

1 tbsp coconut flakes

1 medjool date pitted (if you like your shake sweeter add 1 or 2 more medjool dates)

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp organic coconut oil (optional)

Directions

Blend all the ingredients together in a blender and enjoy!

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

Check Out These Brands

 Jumbo Medjool Dates Made In Nature Organic Pitted Dates Food To Live Medjool Dates

You can also find medjool dates in your local grocery.  This brand contains the pit but it's easy to remove it.

“Medjool dates are fabulous because they are more plump and taste better than regular dates plus they have a number of health benefits like much needed nutrients and fiber.”

---

Affiliate Disclosure - This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Soft Shelled Crabs

What can I say?  We are a seafood family.  I remember eating tons of seafood throughout my childhood in Virginia Beach.

My earliest memory of eating seafood was when I was about three or four.  My brother and I loved playing in the den.  One afternoon when it was lunch time my mom hand fed us crab.  She would feed me, then I'd go off to play.  Then she would feed my brother and he would run off to play.  She would alternate feeding us.  We just kept coming back for more crab.  I became an instant fan of crab that day.  The female crabs were my favorite because I loved eating the orange roe inside.  It was so good.

These days I eat more fish like steelhead, salmon, trout, cod, haddock, and halibut.  But from time to time when my mom and dad visit, we get treated to some delicious crab.  This time they brought soft shelled crabs from Virginia Beach.  Lately they have been shopping at Whole Foods but they also like a seafood place called the Dockside Restaurant and Marina on Shore Drive.  

My mom graciously shared her drunken soft shell crab recipe.  It's fantastic and it's perfect for Father's Day lunch or dinner.  Give it a try and treat your dad this weekend with a special meal like this one.

Mom's Drunken Soft Shelled Crab

Ingredients

4 soft shelled crabs (have the fishmonger remove the lungs and clean them for you)

1/2 cup organic extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup beer

1 organic egg, beaten

1/2 cup organic milk (you could use almond milk or goat's milk if you have a dairy intolerance)

1/2 cup all purpose flour (we used gluten free all purpose flour)

Ground pepper to taste

Dash organic cumin

Dash organic paprika

Dash organic dried parsley

Directions

Heat your cast iron pan.  Give your crabs a bath in the beer for 5 minutes.  Place the crabs on a paper towel.  Next mix the rest of the ingredients together in a large bowl.  Place the crabs one by one into the bowl and roll them in the mixture.  Add the olive oil in the pan.  Once the pan sizzles with a tiny bit of water, place your crabs on the pan.  Cook each side for 3 minutes.  Cook until golden brown but don't overcook them.  Serve with a salad and or nice fresh organic veggies.  Enjoy!

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“We are a seafood family.”

---

Simple Shrimp

My all time favorite shrimp dish growing up was shrimp with lobster sauce.  Since my mom worked long twelve hour days during the week, we ate dinner quite often at a Chinese restaurant called Hunan Garden in Virginia Beach. 

I could never get enough shrimp with lobster sauce.  It was the Chinese equivalent to my favorite Italian dish pasta carbonara.  Without fail, shrimp with lobster sauce was my go to comfort food even throughout my college days.  I was in love with the white creamy sauce.  My mom tried to sway my decision countless times but I just craved it all the time.  There was just something about the divine plump shrimp,  super yummy sauce, and hot rice that I cannot forget.  No other Chinese restaurant has been able to duplicate my all time favorite the way I remember it.

Over the years I developed an intolerance to shellfish.  What they say about eating in moderation has truth.  I can no longer have shellfish as much as I'd love to but I can certainly prepare it for my family and loved ones for them to enjoy.  Anyway, I have had my fill of delectable, scrumptious shrimp throughout my childhood and young adulthood.

I favor wild caught shrimp but you could pick up some farm raised shrimp too.  Recently, I've been serving a dish that I like to call simple shrimp.  It is all about simple high quality ingredients that can be put together in no time at all.  This is my mom's recipe.  She has passed it on to me and I happily pass it on to you.  Serve it with some nice hot noodles, rice, or a beautiful spring risotto with peas and asparagus.  Oh shrimp!  How I miss thee.

Simple Shrimp

Ingredients

A dozen shrimp, deveined and shelled

3 to 4 tbsp goat butter (I love St. Helen's goat butter.  It is so delicious I could eat it by itself!)

1 to 2 tbsp organic extra virgin olive oil, cold pressed

Handful of organic parsley, chopped

3 tbsp garlic minced

Directions

Heat a cast iron pan and add the goat butter and oil.  Allow the butter to melt, then add the shrimp, garlic, and parsley.  Cook the shrimp about two minutes on each side.  Best to serve warm but this can be eaten cold as well.  Don't forget to get all of the sauce off the pan.  It is so good!

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“What they say about eating in moderation has truth. ”

---

Coconut

One of my son's favorite books is "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom".  It's a fun children's book about alphabet letters going up the coconut tree.

In today's post I highlight the coconut since it's become known as a superfood.  I practically use it every day in my cooking and in skincare.  It's become one of those items that I can't live without.  I've got a bottle in the kitchen and another one in the bathroom.  

For the past week, I've been serving my family a coconut milk shake with frozen peaches and raspberries.  It's been well received in my household thankfully.  My boy signals for more so I've been making two batches every morning.  Then he does a happy dance and keeps slurping away.

Here's my latest shake concoction called Lucky 7.  My son Constantine helps me make this.  It's great because we've made it into a numbers game.  I round up the fruits and all the other ingredients, count up to seven, and he drops the ingredient into the blender.  May it help power up your day as it does for us!  Have it in the morning for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with coconut chips.  Oh so addicting but so healthy for you!

---

Lucky 7 Shake

Ingredients

3/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk (So Delicious brand, green label.  So it's easy to remember, 3 + 4 = 7)

3/4 organic banana or a small banana

7 frozen organic peach slices

7 frozen organic raspberries

7 ice cubes

7 raw almonds

1 to 2 tsp organic coconut oil (optional but recommended)

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp pur vanilla extract

1 tbsp coconut nectar or to taste (optional)

1 tsp ground flaxseed meal

1 tsp protein powder

Directions

Blend the ingredients in a blender till you get the desired consistency.  If you don't want it too cold and thick, you can  add less ice cubes.  Also try 7 frozen organic strawberries to change up the recipe.  Enjoy!

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“Have it in the morning for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with coconut chips. Oh so addicting but so healthy for you!”

---

The Perfect Pancit

Naturally I grew up eating lots of pancit and Coke.  Whether it was my mom's homemade pancit or store bought from a Filipino bakery, it was always delicious.  We had it for all sorts of occasions especially on birthdays because the tradition is to eat noodles on your birthday for a long life.

For my husband's birthday lunch I prepared clean spaghetti and meatballs from Dr. Junger's book "Clean Eats".  It's quickly become a family favorite, though I did feel a little bad that we did not have pancit.  The truth is I've never cooked pancit maybe because it's always been available to me.  It's strange to say but it's true.

Recently I've been cooking with soba noodles which remind me of the thin pancit noodles called sotanghon.  King Soba is my favorite brand because it is the most clean, organic, and healthy noodle available. You can use them in all sorts of noodle dishes like ramen and pad thai.  It's so versatile and delicious.  

Here I offer you my own pancit recipe that I call The Perfect Pancit.  Most pancit dishes are greasy and salty with possible additives.  My version is totally clean and organic so there are no bad ingredients in this recipe.  I love using avocado oil.  I find that food tastes really good when I cook with it.  I also use a clean fish sauce.  Buy organic and clean ingredients and you will feed your body the very best to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  Pair The Perfect Pancit with a nice glass of kombucha.  

---

The Perfect Pancit

Ingredients

4 cups of filtered water

2 organic chicken breasts, fat trimmed off

1 tbsp onion powder

2 garlic cloves

1 bay leaf

1 tsp dried thyme

Pink Himalayan sea salt or gray Celtic salt to taste

1/4 onion, diced

5 or 6 garlic, finely minced

3 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

1 tbsp anatto seeds soaked in filtered water for color ( hand squeeze the seeds to get the red color out)

1/2 cup organic chicken bone broth (Pacific brand is clean or make your own)

2 or 3 organic carrots, julienned

2 organic celery stalks, julienned

1 package of King Soba Thai noodles

1 tbsp fish sauce (Red Boat brand) or to taste

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Organic lemon wedges or calamansi

Organic green onions for garnish

Directions

In a large pot add the first 7 ingredients and bring to a boil.  Cover the pot then lower the heat to simmer it for 20 minutes.  Take the chicken out to let it cool on a cutting board and then slice the chicken into small bite size pieces.

Bring the water (used to cook the chicken) back to a boil.  Add the noodles and cook for 2 or 3 minutes.  Put the noodles in a colander and set aside.  You could drizzle some avocado oil or olive oil if you wanted to.

In a cast iron pan add the avocado oil and saute the garlic and onion for about 2 or 3 minutes.  Add the chicken and stir around.  Add 5 tbsp of anatto water and 1/2 cup of chicken broth.  Stir in the carrots and celery.  Add the noodles and continue to stir.  Add the fish sauce and freshly ground pepper.  Stir till well combined.  Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon and green onions.  Enjoy!

Please note:  my pancit recipe is not greasy or salty.  So if you're looking for that type of pancit, you will be disappointed with this recipe.  The idea is to provide clean, wholesome, healthy recipes so I use only the freshest produce possible and ingredients with no additives, preservatives, dyes, or anything artificial.  The products I recommend are among the healthiest and highest quality choices in the market.  

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

Favorite Clean Brands

 Himalayan Pink Salt Premium Avocado Oil Organic Chicken Bone Broth Organic Thai Rice Noodles Red Boat Fish Sauce

“Buy organic and clean ingredients and you will feed your body the very best to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

---

Ditch the Soda

As a child I spent a lot of time in my parents' beauty salon.  My mom used to work from 9 in the morning to 9 at night.  Being so busy with her business, she would skip breakfast and lunch.  When she needed some refreshment she would ask me to get her a can of Coke from the refrigerator.  I would count the number of cans she would drink.  The most was four a day.  

Years later my mom developed type 2 diabetes.  These days she takes her prescription medications and watches what she eats.  

I'm proposing that we stop the madness with sugar.  It's one of the most addictive sweeteners that's causing massive havoc with people's health these days.  Studies have shown over and over again that sugar is not good for us.  It causes unnecessary weight gain, dangerous sugar spikes, and diabetes to name just a few health concerns.

Let's ditch the soda, mass produced candies, sweets, and factory foods once and for all.  Let's try a beverage that still gives you the pep people look for.  Kombucha is the best drink to replace soda and even wine or champagne if you are looking to cut down on alcohol consumption.  Kombucha is a very good probiotic to help repair the gut.  A lot of people suffer from gastro problems.  This stuff can help prevent that.  Kombucha is a fermented tea that comes in an amazing assortment of flavors.  Personally I love Gingerade and Gingerberry by GT's Kombucha.  It's perfect anytime of the year especially that the weather is warming up.  If you don't know the story of how GT's Kombucha came about, you should read about it here.  GT's mom is a cancer survivor and credits her successful remission to drinking kombucha every day.  I love these kind of stories that give hope.

I recently introduced kombucha to my dad.  He's been a diet and regular Coke fan since he was a kid.  He can't help it.  He's loves sweets -- donuts, cookies, ice cream.  He first tried the Gingerade flavor but didn't like it too much.  It must not have been sweet enough for him.  But he tried the Gingerberry and loved it.  I think I've gotten him hooked!  Success, yes! 

I like to drink about a cup and a half every day; sometimes more if I'm feeling under the weather.  Kombucha needs to stay chilled or it will spoil.  Most grocery stores carry it.  Look at the chilled drinks section or even the organic section of your local grocer.  Kombucha is one of the best drinks you can feed your body so I would definitely stack up on them and get rid of the soda and other sugary drinks.

Here is a cranberry apple shake that uses a little bit of kombucha.  It's a nice change from other kinds of fruity shakes.  Try it and enjoy!  My little boy had one this morning and gave me a nice big smile.  :)

---

Cranberry Apple Shake

Ingredients

1 cup almond milk

1/4 cup coconut water

1/4 cup frozen cranberries

A half of an organic apple peeled and cored (use a frozen apple half if you want your shake cold)

1/4 tsp organic pure vanilla extract

1 tsp organic cinnamon

1 tbsp coconut sugar

A splash or two of Gingerberry Kombucha or any flavor

4 ice cubes

1 to 2 tbsp organic apple butter (use more if you like sweet shakes)

2 tsp ground flaxseed meal

1 scoop protein powder

Directions

Blend all ingredients in a blender.  Serve and enjoy!

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

“Let’s ditch the soda, mass produced candies, sweets, and factory foods once and for all.”

---

Picadillo (Ground Beef Soup)

If you're looking to lose some weight try eliminating nightshades.  I noticed that while doing the Clean program, I found my stomach decreased in size when I stopped eating nightshades.  Nightshades are not allowed in the diet during the Clean program.  When I reintroduced them back into my diet, the result was an expanded stomach and a feeling of bloating.

Some common nightshades are eggplants, tomatoes, potatoes (not sweet), and bell peppers so I don't eat these too much but when I need to add them in a meal I use very little.

Picadillo is a favorite Filipino dish that my mom would make for me since I can remember.  This is her recipe with a few tweaks in the quest to produce the healthiest Picadillo recipe.  We don't like ours too soupy but if you do feel free to add more water.  Also the annatto just adds color so if you don't have it or can't find it at your grocery the dish will still be yummy.  I also add an excellent ingredient that is wonderful for the gut.  It's called kudzu!  You can look for it at your local grocery or at any healthy store.  I get mine here at Amazon.  

This picadillo was a hit with the whole family!  I hope you try it.

Picadillo

Ingredients

3 tbsp extra virgin organic olive oil

1 lb organic grass fed ground beef

5 - 6 cloves smashed and minced garlic

1/2 of a small organic onion diced

1 small tomato seeded and chopped or 3 or 4 tbsp canned crushed tomato

1 - 2 tsp tamari

freshly ground pepper

1 - 2 tsp local raw honey

1 tbsp annatto seeds soaked in 1 - 2 cups of filtered water (to get the red color squeeze the seeds with your hands until you get the desired red color)

1 or 2 organic carrots cubed

1/3 cup organic red or green bell pepper

1 small potato (optional, I did not put potato in mine)

1 tsp fish sauce (Red Boat brand)

1 cup organic frozen green peas

1 tsp kudzu in 2 tsp of filtered water mixed well (if you want yours thicker, you can add more kudzu)

Directions

Use a covered pot and set it on medium heat.  Put 3 tbsp of olive oil in the pot and first brown the ground beef.  Add the garlic and stir in until fragrant about 30 seconds.  Add the onion and cook until translucent.  Add the tamari and ground pepper and mix. Add the honey and mix.  Add 1 cup of red liquid from the annatto seeds to the mixture and stir.  Add the carrots, bell pepper, tomato, and potato if you want potato.  Keep stirring.  Reduce the heat to a simmer.  Add the kudzu mixture to thicken the sauce.  Then add the fish sauce and mix.  Cover the pot and cook till the vegetables soften.  Add the peas and finish cooking.  Serve with brown or white organic rice.

Resources for Clean Eating

My 1 Month Health Coaching Program

Advanced TRS

 CleanCheck Price Eden Kuzu RootCheck Price Organic Annatto SeedCheck Price Tamari Gluten Free Soy SauceCheck Price

“Picadillo is a favorite Filipino dish that my mom would make for me since I can remember.”

---