Although, nowadays many who think of chocolate tend to associate it with Belgium or Switzerland, the origin story of the mighty cacao bean is traced back to Mesoamerica. The cacao most likely originated in Southern Mexico, where the Olmecs ground the beans with water to create a beverage. Very little sweetener was used in those… Continue reading Ingredient Spotlight: Raw Cacao
There nothing new about chicken in a cream sauce. Tale as old as time. Chicken smothered in cream of mushroom or gravy has been happening for generations. However, it can be challenging to find recipes that involve creamy sauces made for dairy freers because, obviously most sauces include cream. Mimicking that mouth feel can be… Continue reading Southwest Chicken
Cauliflower is part of the cruciferous family. Named after the shape of the petals (the four petals resemble a cross or crucifix), cruciferous vegetables are known for the nutrient-dense properties (yay!). A native of the Middle East, cauliflower made its way to Europe from Cyprus in the 16th century before being found in North America… Continue reading Ingredient Spotlight: Cauliflower
Ever felt like a goal or dream was outside your reach because you lacked the talent or expertise to make it happen? Maybe someone informed you, you were not capable of doing it or felt it was out of character for you to do it. This can happen frequently. There’s a goal or a dream… Continue reading How to Deflate Self-Limiting Beliefs
Sodium is probably the most controversial nutrient. For decades it has been closely associated with table salt (sodium chloride) and used interchangeably in everyday conversations. Often vilified, sodium is usually portrayed as harmful and bad for human health. However, sodium is a necessary part of a balanced diet. It is needed for survival, and in… Continue reading Nutrient Spotlight: Sodium
Weekday breakfast is known for its quick grab and go mentality. Pop something into a toaster, nuke food in the microwave, perhaps cold fare that requires no cooking. It is rarely about sitting down and enjoying a stick-to-your ribs meal. Yes, it may be challenging to think of preparing breakfast when so many competing obligations… Continue reading Immune-Boosting Breakfast Bowl
I find that when life pivots in ways I was not expecting, it takes me time to adjust. I have to rearrange and reevaluate my lifestyle. I have to adapt in order to make things work. I have to strive to conform to a new way of life: cook differently, think differently, shop differently. It… Continue reading Keep Progressing Forward
Vitamin D is unique in that unlike other vitamins, the body can produce it (in response to sun exposure). The body can also receive vitamin D through foods rich in the vitamin. It is an important nutrient since it plays a pivotal role in many systems of the body. What is Vitamin D? Vitamin D… Continue reading Nutrient Spotlight: Vitamin D
When life gives you lemons you make the best lemonade possible. It can be challenging to muster the energy to move when you just aren’t feeling it, but movement is beneficial. It reduces fatigue, energizing you for the remainder of the day. It can be used to treat anxiety and depression by changing the levels… Continue reading Stay Active at Home
Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to resort to overly processed ingredients to eat on a budget. Real food can be consumed, even when pockets are not overflowing with cash. Eating meals that are tasty, full of nutrients, and affordable are not a pipe dream. For some, it may take a new way… Continue reading 10 Things to Consider While Eating on a Budget
Irazema Garcia 