Toxins bombard us everyday. It is impossible to avoid them because they are found in the air we breathe and the food we consume. Stress, negative emotions, drugs, tobacco, alcohol and personal care products can also create toxicity in the body. Our bodies work daily to process and rid these toxins from our system. If the body is not able to effectively remove the toxins, they begin to damage our body.
A few signs of body toxicity are:
Constant fatigue
Stubborn weight gain
Bad breath
Constipation
Sensitivity to scents
Muscle aches or pains
Skin reactions
To minimize our toxic load we must balance our digestion (enzymes and probiotics), lower our stress levels and intake of environmental toxins. When our digestive tract is off course our body cannot properly assimilate the nutrition we are putting into our bodies. The body will not effectively remove the toxins when the pathways are damaged or clogged. The average American is walking around with 10-20 pounds of mucoid plaque in their gut. It is important to consistently cleanse and detox the body.
I recently completed a 7 day liver, gallbladder, kidney, parasite and juice cleanse after recognizing the signs of toxicity in my body. It was intense and well worth it. It consisted of a juice cleanse, 3 enemas a day, parasite detox and liver/gallbladder/kidney flush. You can watch my journey here:
After completing the cleanse these are the benefits I experienced:
A boost in energy
I felt lighter after getting rid of all of the excess waste
I lost 12 pounds
My immune system feels stronger
My skin and hair are glowing
I reset my body and have a new start
Improved mental clarity
I affirmed my strength and dedication
If you have questions about this cleanse please contact me.
To make the sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, honey and rice vinegar in a small bowl; set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, hot sauce, salt and pepper, to
taste; set aside. In a large bowl, combine Panko, onion and garlic salt, basil, oregano, salt and pepper, to taste; set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
Working one at a time, dip shrimp into buttermilk mixture, then dredge in Panko mixture, pressing to coat. Working in batches, add shrimp to the skillet and cook until evenly golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately, drizzled with sweet & spicy sauce.
Vegetable Fried Quinoa
What You’ll Need:
2 tablespoons coconut oil
3 large eggs, beaten
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 head broccoli, cut into florets
1 small zucchini, diced
1 carrot, peeled and diced
4 cups cooked quinoa
2 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 green onions, sliced
What You’ll Do:
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over low heat. Add eggs and fry until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Let cool before dicing into small pieces.
Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add garlic and onion, and cook, stirring often, until onions have become translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add mushrooms, broccoli and zucchini. Cook, stirring constantly, until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
Add carrots and quinoa. Cook, stirring constantly, until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Add ginger and soy sauce, and gently toss to combine. Cook, stirring constantly, until heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir in green onions and eggs. Serve immediately, drizzled with.
The Benefits Of Matcha Green Tea – Why you should ditch traditional green tea and switch to Matcha.
Through a Japanese tea ceremony, I was introduced to the benefits of matcha green tea. “Matcha” as it is called is a special type of green tea made of the entire leaf. Consuming the whole leaf provides 100% of the nutrients and 137 times the antioxidant power of regular green tea. One cup of matcha = 10 cups of regularly brewed green tea in terms of nutritional content.
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – How It’s Made
The benefits of matcha green tea come from the use of the whole leaf. The leaves are pulverized, creating a green powder. The green tea powder is then whisked with hot water in a bowl creating a frothy beverage. In traditional ceremonies, Geishas serve the warm beverage in traditional style. The preparation and enjoyment is meditative.
The resulting high levels of chlorophyll in Matcha Green Tea not only give this tea its beautiful vibrant green color; matcha is also a powerful detoxifier, capable of naturally removing heavy metals and chemical toxins from the body.
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – Awaken Mental Clarity
One of the benefits of Matcha green tea is that it creates calm alertness. l-theanine (an amino acid found in green and black tea) produces a state of relaxation without drowsiness. With three times as much caffeine than a cup of steeped tea, matcha has about the same amount of caffeine as a cup of brewed coffee. Switching your morning coffee for the benefits of Matcha green tea will give you the caffeine you are accustomed to without the jitters and mid-morning crash.
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – Antioxidant Support
Catechins are phytochemical compounds, vital antioxidants which provide the body with metabolic support and stamina. We know that with it’s potent antioxidant properties, a bowl of matcha provides over five times as many antioxidants as any other food. The EGCg catechins, which make up 60% of matcha tea, have also shown to hold antibiotic properties which promote overall health.
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – Promote Relaxation
The L-Theanine in matcha promotes the production of alpha waves in the brain, which induces relaxation without the inherent drowsiness caused by other “downers.” The L-Theanine also promotes the production of dopamine and serotonin.
Studies of different populations have shown that people who drink Match Green Tea on a regular basis have lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while at the same time displaying higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – Become A Fat Burning Machine
Drinking Matcha Green Tea has also been shown to increase metabolism and help the body burn fat about four times faster than average.
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – Prolonged Energy
While all green tea naturally contains caffeine, the energy boost received from Matcha is largely due to its unique combination of other nutrients. The increased endurance from a bowl of Matcha Green Tea can last up to 6 hours and because of the effects of L-Theanine, Matcha drinkers experience none of the usual side-effects of stimulants such as nervousness and hypertension. It’s good, clean energy.
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – Save $ By Making It At Home
If you buy matcha in a cafe, you’ll spend somewhere around $4 a cup. You can make it at home for pennies—here’s how:
1. Heat spring or filtered water
2. Add a few drops of hot water to matcha powder and mix into paste with a spoon
3. Add more hot water to paste mixture and stir. Try 1 teaspoon to 6 ounces of water. Adjust measurement to suit taste.
4. Enjoy!
Benefits of Matcha Green Tea – There’s One Exception
Since the whole leaf is used in the production of matcha green tea, lead contamination could be a concern. Even organically grown green teas have been shown to contain trace amounts of lead. As long as you are not drinking the tea all day every day, you should be okay. We must weigh the benefits vs. the risks and make a decision for ourselves if we want to drink matcha.
The Central American country of Guatemala is known for its lush and wild jungles. The name Guatemala means “land of trees”. With thirty-three volcanos, four of which are active, the landscape is rugged and rich in minerals. Guatemala is near the equator and receives ample rainfall and sunlight to make a fertile environment for agriculture to flourish.
Guatemala’s flag consists of two blue blocks hugging a white block in the center. The flag symbolizes the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans that hug Guatemala in the center. As the most populous country in Central America, this flag represents sixteen million residents that speak twenty-two different languages.
Things To Do In Antigua – Explore The History
The city of Antigua, Guatemala was once the capital of the country. It’s rich history spans the Mayan Empire and Spanish rule. In 1524 it was originally founded as Santiago de Guatemala. This area is prone to natural disasters, including floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and avalanches. Through a series of natural disasters that destroyed the city multiple times authorities decided to move the capital to Guatemala City. At this time the city adapted the name it now holds, La Antigua, Guatemala which fittingly means “Ancient Guatemala”.
Things To Do In Antigua – A Land Riddled With Volcanos
Antigua is a growing tourist destination. It’s driving distance from Puerto Quetzal and the now capital, Guatemala City. The drive winds through the beautiful countryside. To the west of the city are a pair of peaks, Acatenango and the Volcán de Fuego or “Volcano of Fire”. To the south of the city is Volcán de Agua or “Volcano of Water”. If you feel like taking a hike, climbing Pacaya Volcano will give you a magnificent view of the surrounding valley.
Things To Do In Antigua – Delve Into The Cobble Stone Streets
The uneven cobble stone streets of Antigua are endearing. Sight seeing tourists must be mindful that, while watching their step, they must also beware of the bay windows that jet out into the street. These exterior ornamentations add character to this beautiful place.
The city of Antigua is one of the best examples of Latin American town planning. Straight lines established by the gird of north-south and east-west streets make it easy to navigate. Each neighborhood has its own temple, square and hospital.
Antigua Guatemala transports you in time. You feel that you are living in history.
Among the many historical buildings is the Palace of the Captains General, the Cases de al Moneda, the Cathedral, the Universidad de San Carlos, Las Capuchina, La Merced, Santa Clara and many other noteworthy sights.
Things To Do In Antigua – Guatemalan Cuisine
Guatemalan cuisine is also based on the influence of the Mayan and Spanish cultures in the region. Mayan cuisine prominently features corn tortillas which, in this area, have added limestone to increase calcium to the diet, chilies and beans are also key ingredients. The Spanish introduced ingredients such as citrus fruits, olive oil and garlic. Almost all dishes include some form of black beans, white rice and corn tortillas. Meats typically come sautéed in chili sauce or boiled in savory stews.
Many locals still make their food by hand using traditional methods. Meal time is informal, with its focal point being socializing with their community. Common crops in Guatemala include bananas, cocoa, coffee and sugar.
Falling in love with the charm of the city is one of the easiest things to do in Antigua. This is a place that I would like to spend more time in. With so many things to do in Antigua, my time here was far too short. I will be returning again soon to this magical spot.
Yerba mate benefits the mind and body. Yerba mate or mate as it is often called is traditionally consumed in the central and southern regions of South America, where it is often a social event to drink mate.
Yerba Mate Benefits – The Social Aspect
It’s not unusual to see people walking down the street sipping mate while carrying a thermos of hot water to refresh their drink. When you are asked to share mate with someone, it is a sign of friendship and bonding.
Yerba Mate Benefits – A Physical Impact
Yerba mate is made from the dried leaves of the evergreen holly, a plant native to South America. Due to the high quantity of polyphenols found in mate, many health promoting claims have been made about it. Studies have concluded that Yerba mate benefits include improved allergy symptoms, reduced risk of diabetes mellitus and high blood sugar in mice.
Yerba Mate Benefits – A Weight Loss Tool
Mate also acts as an appetite suppressant and could be effective as a weight loss tool. It increases energy expenditure, improves insulin sensitivity, and burns stored fat. Athletes have been known to use it to enhance physical performance. This tea has been shown to increases mental energy and focus, improves mood, and promotes deeper sleep. Yerba mate benefits include being used as a digestive aid, its use as a general nerve tonic for pain, fatigue, and depression.
With a powerful nutrient profile Yerba mate benefits the body. It is said to have the strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea, and the euphoria of chocolate all in one beverage. That is a big claim; lets look more deeply at the benefits and side effects of consuming Yerba mate.
Yerba Mate Benefits – A Powerful Mood Enhancer
Providing gentle, clean and calm energy replacing your morning coffee with Yerba mate will bring about alert wakefulness with out the jitters or crash often associated with coffee. Mate stimulates the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain which is the cause for increased motivation and productivity.
Yerba Mate Benefits – Nutritional Impact
Each serving of mate contains the following vitamins and minerals:
•vitamin A
•vitamin C
•vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B5
•vitamin E
•calcium
•iron
•magnesium
•manganese
•phosphorus
•potassium
•selenium
•sodium
•sulfur
•zinc
This doesn’t include the beneficial phytonutrient tannins, trace minerals, chlorophyll, flavonols, polyphenols, and 15 amino acids. The polyphenols in Yerba mate exhibit more antioxidant power than any other tea-based drink. These potent antioxidant compounds protect the cardiovascular system as the theobromine in mate relaxes the blood vessels allowing for better flow.
Yerba Mate Benefits – Boost Your Immune System
Yerba mate is high in compounds called saponins which boost the immune system. These natural anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to be useful for treating bladder infections. This compound is also helpful in modulating an overactive immune system. Helpful in treating constipation, diarrhea, indigestion and parasites it’s natural antibacterial properties fight against E. coli, one of the most common causes of food poisoning. It’s also useful for both preventing and treating bladder and kidney stones.
Yerba Mate Benefits – Enjoy A Cup Today
Traditionally, you would drink Yerba mate out of hallowed out gourds packed with the loose leaves. Leisurly you would sip the mate through a “bombilla”, a special metallic drinking straw. The easiest way to get started is using Yerba mate tea bags and drinking it out of a regular mug. Some find the taste earthy, like grass. The tea can be diluted so that you can build your way up to a stronger cup. Add some honey to your mate to make the taste more palatable.
Jade green stalks of rice shoot up from the murky waters of the terraced landscape. The sapphire sky contrasts the scene creating a sense of balance. On my scooter I putter through the rice fields soaking up the mystical beauty of Bali.
A place that beckons travelers from around the world, often you hear visitors explain they are on a spiritual retreat. I came to Bali to learn about the cuisine and take the flavors home with me to share with others. I believe eating is a spiritual act. The best way to experience a culture is through their food.
Navigating the bustling local markets with our instructor, we picked up fresh spices, along with produce that was fresh from the farm. I watched as a young man gutted and descaled our fish in no more than 15 seconds, his catch from earlier that morning would end up in our meal. It was amazing.
One of the best things about traveling is sharing the experience with others. These are recipes we cooked while in Bali. I hope you will try them for yourself and enjoy these authentic Balinese dishes.
Indonesian Food – Recipes From Bali
Pindang Serani
Yellow Fish Soup
What You’ll Need:
2 pounds of fish tuna, mackerel or other fish of your preference
1 handful of fresh basil
2 Kemangi Salam leaves or bayleaf
3 thumbs of galangal, peeled & sliced
1/2 onion, chopped
1 thumb of ginger, sliced
3″ piece of turmeric, peeled & sliced**
2 Kafir lime leaves, torn into pieces
2 lemongrass stalks, crushed, then tied into knots
1 red pepper, deseeded & sliced
7 cloves of garlic
8 small shallots, sliced
14 Canbera Wit – Thai chilies, destemed*
3 green onions, sliced
1 lime, juiced
3 tablespoons of coconut oil
1 tablespoon mushroom stock pearls*
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
What You’ll Do:
In a soup pot over medium high heat add the coconut oil. Add the galangal, onion, lemongrass, red pepper, shallots and green onion to the pan and sauté until tender. Combine the garlic, turmeric, and ginger with 2 tablespoons of water in a blender and purée. Pour this sauce into the soup pot. When the soup pot becomes fragrant add the chopped fish to the pan. Pour 2 cups of water into the pot. Toss in the whole chilies and ripped Kafir lime leaves. Add mushroom stock. Sprinkle in the salt and sugar and simmer over medium high heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Add the lime juice and basil. Remove from heat. Serve.
*Do not chop the Thai chilies. Keeping the chilies whole minimizes the heat they give off. If you chop them the dish may become inedible.
*If you cannot find mushroom stalk, substitute with vegetable broth concentrate.
Jackfruit Curry
What You’ll Need:
1 pound young jackfruit, chopped*
1 thumb of fresh turmeric, peeled & chopped
5 red peppers, deseeded & sliced
7 cloves of garlic, sliced
3 green onions, sliced
3 thumbs of white ginger, sliced thick
2 Romano tomatoes
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon mushrooms stock pearls*
2 tablespoons coconut oil
Optional garnish: 1/4 cup fried shallots
What You’ll Do:
Boil ginger, turmeric and red peppers for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Blend this mixture together with the garlic and 3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Pour the contents of the blender into the pot and reduce the sauce for 10 to 15 minutes.
In a medium soup pot add the chopped jackfruit, cover with water. Boil until tender and then drain.
Add the reduced curry sauce to the jackfruit pot. Mix in the green onions and coconut oil. Stir in the curry powder. Add 1 cup of water and coconut milk. Segment the tomatoes into the curry and stir. Add mushroom stock pearls and salt to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes. Serve with steamed rice.
*If you cannot find young jackfruit you can use potatoes or meat instead.
*If you cannot find mushroom stalk substitute with vegetable broth concentrate.
Pepes Tahu
What You’ll Need:
1 thumb sized piece of palm sugar
1 red pepper, deseeded & sliced
1 thumb size galangal, peeled & sliced
5 small shallots, sliced
4 green onions, sliced
1 Kefir lime leaf, destemed
1 Romano tomato, chopped
16 ounces Tofu
2 tablespoons coconut oil
2 eggs
1 tablespoon mushrooms stock pearls*
1/2 teaspoon salt
banana leaves
What You’ll Do:
In a sauce pan over medium-high, heat the coconut oil. Add the palm sugar, red pepper, galangal and Kefir leaf. Reduce heat and simmer until the palm sugar melts. Remove from heat.
Squeeze the tofu dry.
In a medium sized stock pot add the shallots, green onions and tomato and tofu. Stir in eggs. Remove the Kefir leaf from the sauce pan and pour the contents into the tofu mixture. Cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Place water in your food steamer and bring to a roaring boil.
Scoop one cup the tofu mixture into a banana leaf and roll it up. Skewer the ends with bamboo picks. Steam for 15 minutes. Serve.
*If you cannot find mushroom stalk substitute with vegetable broth concentrate.
Easy pickles
What You’ll Need:
1/2 onion, chopped
2 large cucumbers, segmented
10 Canbera Wit – Thai chilies, destemed*
1 large carrot, peeled & julienne
1/2 cup hot water
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons sugar
What You’ll Do:
Add all ingredients in an airtight container. Shake. Serve.
*Do not chop the Thai chilies. Keeping the chilies whole minimizes the heat they give off. If you chop them the dish may become inedible.
**Tip: To quickly and easily peel ginger or turmeric use the edge of a spoon to remove the skin.
This Kabocha Kale Salad with Sweet Potato Cakes and Avocado Lemon Mousse is packed with real food nutrition to sustain you while delighting your senses.
Let’s be candid this recipe is highly involved. This is not the dish you would prepare if you are in a hurry to get something on the table for the family to eat. This is a meal that takes time. The pay off is the mingling of delightful flavors swirling over your tastebuds thanking you for the effort you put into preparing it.
The Sweet Potato Cakes freeze well. Prepare enough so that you can have them on hand for futures meals. Simply warm them in the oven or lightly fry them in a skillet and serve.
Kobcocha Kale Salad
Ingredients
1 small kabocha squash (2 pounds)
1-2 bunches of lacinto kale (dinosaur kale) 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 cup wheat berries or farro, cooked
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F.
With a vegetable peeler remove the outer rind of the kabocha. Cut the kabocha squash in half and scrape out the seeds. Cut the squash in 1-inch cubes, toss with a little olive oil and salt. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, turning at half way mark. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
Remove the thick stems from the kale and discard. Stack the leaves, roll them into a tight bundle, then slice thin. You should have about 4-5 cups of kale. Toss kale with a tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice and salt. Set aside.
In a dry pan toast walnuts until fragrant, 7-8 minutes. Allow to cool.
Add farro, walnuts, cranberries and pumpkin seeds to the kale. Gently toss in the roasted kabocha until combine. Set aside.
Sweet Potato Lentil Cakes
Ingredients
3 cups peeled and cubed sweet potatoes (2 medium sweet potatoes) 1 cup split red lentils, rinsed
2 cups water
1 cup rolled oats, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
1⁄8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
black pepper, to taste
1 cup chopped lacinto kale (dinosaur kale) 1⁄2 cup shelled pumpkin seeds
1⁄4 cup shelled hemp seeds
1⁄4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Steam the sweet potatoes in a steamer or roast in the stove for 30 minutes, until fork-tender. Set aside to cool.
In a small pan bring the rinsed lentils to a boil in 2 cups water. Reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes or until tender. Drain, set aside.
Add the sweet potatoes, lentils, 1⁄2 cup of the rolled oats, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, sea salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is combine. There should still be chunks in the sticky mixture.
Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add in the reserved 1⁄2 cup rolled oats, kale, pepitas, hemp seeds, cilantro, and chives. Gently stir to incorporate.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Form the mixture into patties. Place each on the baking sheet. Bake the patties for 30 minutes, flip them at the 15-minute mark.
Avocado Lemon Mouse
Ingredients
1 avocado
1 lemon, juiced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth.
Plate a generous portion of the kabocha kale salad, add 2 patties to the plate. Serve with a the avocado lemon mouse. Enjoy!
Many of the things to do in Dominican Republic center around the sun and surf. The Dominican Republic is a Hispanola island that shares its western boarder with Haiti. Flying into Cabarete’s Puerto Plata airport (POP) travelers are greeted at the airport exit by many locals offering transportation into town. Be prepared to pay a $10 tourist tax when entering the country.
Things To Do In Dominican Republic – Visit Cabarete
Driving into the township, one notices the extreme poverty in which many live in this country. Wooden homes that seem to be barely standing house happy children that play out front as their parents sell local goods to make an income. Venturing into Cabarete, more shops spring up and a different picture of the island comes into view.
Things To Do In Dominican Republic – The Epitome Of Beach Life
Frothy white capped waves roll to shore, splashing against the beach. The sound of the water breaking is rhythmic and calming. The fine tan sand glitters in the sunlight. Walking on the edge of the beach, a mixture of sand and water washes over the soles of the feet and swirls between the toes, creating a tickling sensation which breathes life into the soul.
Things To Do In Dominican Republic – Kiteboard
Sun kissed babes in tight and bright bikinis unravel the ropes of their kites anticipating a dance across the ocean as the wind leads. The dudes watch these girls as if hypnotized. The beach is lined with colorful kites in shades of orange, pink and green. On the horizon kiters sail through the sky as if they are weightless.
Lush palm trees spread their leaves over the landscape, providing a canopy of shade, welcoming escape from the heat of the Caribbean sun. The bright orange flowers of the Flamboyant tree create a vibrant contrast to the clear blue sky. The large seed pods that dangle from its branches are often used in instruments like the maracas you hear bands play at night.
Small wooden shanties of varying colors line the beach where locals offer surf or kite lessons for a nominal fee. It is the perfect spot to sit on the beach and enjoy a refreshing drink while being entertained by the kiters as they fly through the sky.
Things To Do In Dominican Republic – Punta Cana
As you take the six hour drive from Cabarete to Punta Cana the simplicity of life unfolds before you, revealing a new dimension of the island. Cows roam freely, grazing in grassy fields; the only fences are constructed of trees planted tightly together in rows along the roadside. The flat plains give way to cliffs and mountainous terrain the further inland you drive.
Things To Do In Dominican Republic – Expect The Unexpected
Whilst navigating the roads, one must be aware of their surroundings. Pot holes the size of small children seemingly spring up out of nowhere, grabbing your tires when least expected. Moto concho or motorcycle taxis zip by at record speed as a family of four are seated on the back, all helmet free, wind blowing through their dark hair. On a two lane street, cars drive in either direction while vehicles pass through the middle of traffic and people zig zag in between.
A resort town, Punta Cana (PUJ) has a completely different vibe. Here, you will be able to relax on the beach under a palm tree or umbrella, work on your sun tan and sip on fruity tropical drinks. You will also find American hotel chains and restaurants sprinkled in with the local flavor.
Things To Do In Dominican Republic – An Adventurer’s Paradise
Plan your trip well in advance. The island is spread out and sight seeing from one city to the next can take many hours of travel. Cabarete is known for its water sports and all things involving surfing: kitesurfing, windsurfing, bodysurfing. Punta Cana is better known as a resort destination for those that want to relax on the beach. Santo Domingo (SDQ) is where Columbus first landed. Full of history, this bustling metropolis is the capital and largest city in the country. This is where Fort Ozama, the National Pantheon and the Catedral Primada de Americas, is located.
The Dominican Republic has beautiful weather year round as the average temperature is 78°F. Many say that February is the best time to visit because between February and May, the peak season rush dissipates. Snow birds love escaping to the warm weather of the tropics for vacation this time of year.
Things To Do In Dominican Republic – Tips
The D.R., while gorgeous, can be described as rough. It is ill advised to be walking outside after dark. If you choose to take a gamble do so in large groups. Many travelers are mugged yearly.
It is best to drink bottled water over tap water.
Be sure to have plenty of D.R. pesos on hand as many businesses do not take credit cards. Cash is king here.
When I think of summer time I think of picnics with friends. Spending time with loved ones, enjoying a fabulous meal, these are the moments that make life wonderful for me. One of my favorite dishes to take to a BBQ is coleslaw and nothing beats a homemade slaw. Serve up this Cran Apple Almond Coleslaw as a side dish, top a salad with it or dress a naked burger, every option will make your mouth happy. It’s so delicious you’ll forget that its nutritious and good for you. Green and purple cabbage helps moisten the intestines, benefits the stomach, improves digestion, and beautifies the skin. With that you should be running to the store to get the ingredients to make this mouth watering dish.
Cran Apple Almond Coleslaw
What You’ll Need:
Dressing
3/4 cup Greek Yogurt
1/4 cup Vegenaise
1/4 cup honey
2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
salt & pepper
Coleslaw
1 small cabbage, shredded
1 1/2 cups matchstick carrots
1 large gala apples, sliced into matchsticks
1/2 cup sliced green onions
3/4 cup chopped almonds
3/4 cup dried cranberries
What You’ll Do:
In a mixing bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth. Salt and pepper to taste.
In a large bowl toss together coleslaw ingredients. Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss to evenly coat. Serve immediately.
The health benefits of spirulina are undeniable. Spirulina is hailed as a superfood that promotes body and brain health. This blue-green “miracle” algae grows naturally in oceans and salty lakes in subtropical climates.
Health Benefits Of Spirulina – Abundant Nutrients For The Body
Spirulina is rich in nutrients, some of which aren’t found in the average daily vitamin. According to the FDA, the health benefits of Spirulina include significant amounts of calcium, niacin, potassium, magnesium, B vitamins and iron. Spirulina is a great source of B complex vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin E, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, selenium and antioxidants. It also has essential amino acids (compounds that are the building blocks of proteins). In fact, protein makes up about 60 to 70 percent of Spirulina’s dry weight.
Health Benefits Of Spirulina – An Antioxidant Powerhouse
One of the health benefits of Spirulina comes from its antioxidant properties. Spirulina protects our cells by warding off inflammation and other dis-eases in the body. Spirulina has been shown to positively reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering “the bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the body while promoting HDL “the good” cholesterol. In higher doses, spirulina could reduce blood pressure.
Health Benefits Of Spirulina – It’s Full Of Protein
Anemia is a fairly common aliment which can lead to fatigue due to a reduction in hemoglobin or red blood cells in the blood. When one’s diet is supplemented with spirulina, it has been documented that hemoglobin content of red blood cells increase.
Spirulina has 4 grams of protein in a single tablespoon making it a more concentrated source of protein than red meat and only 20 calories. With a high concentration of bio-available iron it is excellent during pregnancy and for those with anemia as it will not cause constipation. The health benefits of Spirulina are compounding in the body as the proteins and nutrients are bioavailable and easily absorbed.
Health Benefits Of Spirulina – Detox The Body
The health benefits of Spirulina include its ability to detoxify the body. It is great at cleansing the body of heavy metals by binding to them and removing them from the body. Evidence suggests that it can bind to radioactive isotopes and may be useful for radioactivity exposure or radiation therapy. A combination of zinc and Spirulina may help the body clear arsenic in people whose drinking water has unusually high levels, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH).
Health Benefits Of Spirulina – Prevent What Ails You
Many people promote Spirulina as a treatment for a range of metabolism and heart health issues, including weight loss, diabetes and high cholesterol, according to the NIH. The health benefits of Spirulina help a range of eclectic health problems, including premenstrual symptoms and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease), according to the NIH. People also recommend Spirulina as an aid for various mental and emotional disorders, including anxiety, stress, depression and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Health Benefits Of Spirulina – It’s Nontoxic
Toxicological studies of the effects of spirulina consumption on humans and animals, including feeding as much as 800 mg/kg, and replacing up to 60% of protein intake with spirulina, have shown no toxic effects. Fertility, teratogenicity, peri- and postnatal, and multigenerational studies on animals also have found no adverse effects from spirulina consumption.
Doctors consider Spirulina to be safe in general, especially in light of its long history as a food. Spirulina may become contaminated with toxic metals, harmful bacteria and microcystins — toxins produced from some algae —if it is grown in unsafe conditions. Be sure to buy Spirulina from a trusted source and always buy organic when possible.
Health Benefits Of Spirulina – Get Some Today
Spirulina is available in tablet, flake and powder form. Adding a tablespoon a day to your fresh green juice or to 8 ounces of water will kill the sugar/carb cravings you have and keep you full for hours. For those that want to reap the benefits of this powerhouse but can’t hack the flavor, capsules are a great way to go as spirulina has a very strong taste. A little experimentation will help you find the way you will most enjoy adding Spirulina to your diet. Here is a recipe to try:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cover baking sheets with parchment paper. Place potatoes on the parchment paper and toast in the oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes. Mix all spices thoroughly in a bowl. Sprinkle spices over potatoes. Place back in the oven and bake until crisp, about 30 minutes. Store in an air-tight container.
