EZ Raw Living

Health - Book Suggestions

2012-02-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of books that will make wonderful additions to your Health Library - my library already includes Cure for Diabetes, just need to order Stomach Acid!

"Why Stomach Acid is Good for You, Natural Relief from Heartburn, Indigestion, Reflux and GERD" by Jonathan V. Wright and Lane Lenard is a book well worth reading.

The theory in this book is that most people have too little stomach acid and that antacids not only do not help, but they make the problem much worse.

You can pick up a copy at www.chapters.indigo.ca for $13.64 - or at www.amazon.ca for $12.96. (Reading the reviews at amazon.com is an eye opener!)

"There is a Cure for Diabetes" by Gabriel Cousens with David Rainoshek reveals options for those with diabetes.

This book by Cousens lays out a three-week plan for reversing the negative genetic expression of diabetes to a physiology of health and well-being.

You can pick up a copy at www.chapters.indigo.ca for $17.44 - or at www.amazon.ca for $16.57.

Recipe - Kimchee Slaw

2012-02-07T17:55:00.005-08:00

Kimchee Slaw

One of my favourite Chefs is Jamie Oliver who creates great home-cooked meals from scratch - adding his own unique twist to each element. And although he is not a Raw Chef, his food is so hearty and appetizing that I would give it a try - that is if I ever decided to cook again!

Kimchi is a spicy Korean dish that is prepared by fermenting Chinese cabbage and vegetables with ginger, hot chili peppers, and other ingredients. Kimchi is similar to, but generally ferments faster than, sauerkraut. This one-meal version is one of Jamie's recipes - a perfect fit for the raw foodist in you!

Kimchee Slaw   Yield: 4 cups
Small bunch of radishes                                  1 Fresh green chili
1 small red onion                                             Piece of fresh ginger (thumb size)
1/2 a Chinese cabbage                                      2 Fresh Limes
Small bunch of fresh cilantro (coriander)           Himalayan salt
1 Fresh red chili                                              Sesame oil

Wash the radishes and their greens well

Peel and cut the red onion in half so it is easier to add to food processor

Add the shredding disc to a food processor

Shred the radishes with their greens, red onion, and Chinese cabbage by pushing through the feed tube on food processor

Empty contents of food processor into a glass serving bowl

Remove the shredding disc and replace it with the S-blade in food processor

Add the bunch of cilantro and the chillies (stalks removed and seeded for less heat if desired) to the food processor and process

Peel and crush or grate the ginger, then add into the bowl

Into the bowl, squeeze the juice from both limes, add a pinch of Himalayan salt, and a splash of sesame oil

Really scrunch or massage ingredients together with your hands to mix well and release juices

Best served right away, but first taste to check the balance of flavours

Kimchee Slaw is wonderful either as a main meal or as a side dish. Try it with raw vegan Nori rolls!

Recipe - Lemon Frosted Carrot Cakes

2012-01-08T11:09:00.006-08:00

Although these cakes are good to eat just as they are, they can also be dehydrated. So before you frost them, placing the cakes in the dehydrator will result in a drier texture.

I like to use Meyer lemons for their sweeter taste without the mouth-puckering sour tartness associated with lemons.

The produce manager at the Independent Grocer store in Abbotsford brought in Meyer lemons for me.

Carrot Cakes     Yield: 1-1/2 dozen
1-1/2 cups carrot Pulp, from juiced carrots              2 tsp Meyer lemon zest
1/2 cup almond pulp or almonds, ground                  1 tsp agave
1/3 cup coconut Flour                                              1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/3 cup walnuts, chopped                                        1-2 pinches vanilla powder
1/3 cup raisins, chopped

Use the pulp leftover from making Almond milk, or grind almonds into a meal
Coconut flour is shredded coconut that is ground in blender
By hand, mix all the ingredients together in a bowl
Shape cakes using a 1-1/2 or 2” spring-loaded ice cream scoop, pressing mixture firmly into the scoop
When you turn them out onto a tray – they will have a rounded top and flat bottom
Set in the fridge until ready to frost – or at this point they can be dehydrated a few hours

Lemon Frosting
1/4 cup cashews 2-1/2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
1/3 cup Meyer lemon juice 1 Tbsp agave

Place coconut oil in a jar with lid and sit the jar in a bowl of warm water to melt
When oil is melted, blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth

Spoon the frosting over the top of each cake

Place in the fridge until ready to eat - cakes will last a week covered in the fridge

Recipe - Persimmon Pudding Green Smoothie

2011-12-21T13:10:00.000-08:00

If you have never made a Green Smoothie before, here is your opportunity! Just start out with a few glasses each day and build up to drinking a blender full.

Dark leafy greens contain an abundance of the essential minerals, vitamins, and amino acids needed for optimum health. And the easiest way to include nutrient dense greens into our daily diet is by drinking a blender full of GREEN SMOOTHIE every day!

So what have I discovered through drinking Green Smoothies? Abundant health, increased energy, regulated weight, reduced cravings, and better digestion are just a few of the benefits!

For this recipe, any blender will do, but for the tougher, fibrous greens like kale you will find a more powerful blender gives creamier results. My blender is a Vitamix which can handle just about anything.

Persimmons Pudding GS
Add ingredients to the blender in the following order:
2 cups purified water
3 cups spinach, tightly packed
1 one inch thick slice of fresh pineapple
2 persimmons, chopped
1 banana, sliced

Place water in bottom of blender
Add spinach (make sure measuring cup has been tightly packed)
Slice off an inch from the top and bottom of the pineapple and throw away. Remove outside skin from pineapple with a knife, and cut a one inch thick slice. Cut this pineapple slice into cubes including the core, and add to the blender.
Insert a small knife into the top of each persimmon around the green stem. Cut a circle about 1/2" deep to remove and throw away the stem. Chop the remaining persimmons into cubes, and add to blender.
Remove the peel from a banana, slice, and add to blender
Blend all together until thick, smooth, and creamy
For a pudding - put into small bowls and serve with a spoon!
For a drink - add an extra 1/2 to 1 cup of water, thinning to your desired consistency, blend again and serve in glasses!

Recipes - Persimmon Pudding

2011-11-26T15:49:00.000-08:00

Persimmon Pudding

Since persimmons are in the grocery stores right now, I decided to repost this recipe from this blog's archives.

You can make a fast, easy, and deliciously thick green smoothie pudding - OR - you can leave out the celery to make a quick fruity pudding!

Persimmon Pudding

Makes 3-4 servings

1 persimmon

1 banana
4 very large strawberries (I used frozen)

2-3 stalks wild celery, with leaves

(I used regular celery, but I love using wild celery which is more nutritious and tastier)

Remove and discard the top and seed from persimmon
Blend together persimmon and banana in a blender
Add strawberries to blender (If using a Vitamix you may want to use the tamber)
Omitting water thickens a green smoothie into a pudding
When fruit is mixed thoroughly, add celery, one stalk at a time, blending untill smooth
Pour into dessert dishes - Fast, Easy and Delish!

Recipes - Date Nut Torte

2011-11-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

This recipe comes courtesy of Alissa Cohen. It is fast and easy to put together and tastes divine! Only made 1/2 of the recipe, just to get a better picture for you!

Date Nut Torte

Date Nut Torte

Base of Torte
2 cups raisins
2 cups walnuts

In a food processor, combine raisins and walnuts and blend until well blended and moist
This will take a few minutes and you may see it forming a ball
Make sure the raisins come out looking like a fudgey mixture and are not still grainy
Remove from food processor and mould onto a plate in a round circle about 1-1/2" thick

Frosting
1 cup dates, pitted and soaked
1/2 lemon, juiced

In a food processor, combine dates and lemon juice until smooth and creamy
Spread the frosting on top of the torte
If you want a firmer texture that will be easier to slice, refrigerate the torte for a few hours

Creativity in Action

2011-10-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

How many times have you started making something only to find it is not to your liking - then what do you do? Well this just happened to me! Life presents these moments that you can either take as a defeat, or grasp as an opportunity to create something new - the choice is always yours!

Today I wanted to make some new little dessert balls, but they tasted similar to all the other dessert balls out there. So at this point I could throw out this failed attempt or have some fun and let my imagination run free. Opting for fun seemed like the thing to do, so to what was already in the food processor I began adding ingredients, varying the texture, and taste testing until I came up with this new surprise - that by the way is nut-free. Since I wasn't sure how long the batter would take to dehydrate, I decided to use this lovely little heart mould and split the batter into two portions.

What could have been a 2-layer heart-shaped cake OR a carob zucchini loaf turned out to be a 2-layer Carob Zucchini Cake with a Strawberry Cream filling and Carob frosting (either way I would have been happy)!

Recipe - Mixed Noodle Teriyaki

2011-10-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

This simple light sauce, which also makes a great dressing or dip for veggies, was inspired by Ani Phyo.

I like playing around with traditional Asian recipes - and this is the result!

My way is to combine noodles of different colours and textures with a sweet Teriyaki sauce and serve alongside Garlicky Green Beans (see post April 24, 2011) and diced juicy canteloupe for a complete meal!

Mixed Noodle Teriyaki Serves 4

Sauce
2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp raw Tahini (or 1 Tbsp Almond butter)
2 Tbsp gluten-free Tamari
3 Tbsp agave
1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp minced garlic

Noodles
1 cup finely shredded Red Cabbage
3 cups of noodles (use any combination of root veggies like zucchini, carrots, daikon, etc)

Whisk together the sauce ingredients in a bowl (or mix the sauce in a blender)
If you want a thicker sauce, simply increase the tahini (or Almond butter)
Shred cabbage and put in the bowl containing the sauce
Make noodles with a Spirooli, Spiralizer, or veggie peeler
Add noodles to the bowl with the cabbage and sauce
Mix all together until thoroughly coated
For added nutrition, sprinkle some sesame seeds or sprouted lentils over top
Noodles and sauce mixture will keep 1-2 days in the fridge

Recipe - Kabocha Squash Coconut Soup

2011-09-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

My desire to make a new soup, sent me searching through the contents of my fridge in hopes of discovering a new way to reuse leftovers.

Happily, what I discovered were two foods just waiting to be put to the test...coconut milk and Kabocha squash.

The result was this simple silky puree, that is a high source of antioxidants, Vitamins A, C, and fibre.

Kabocha Squash Coconut Soup Yield: 2 cups

2 cups Kabocha squash, peeled and seeded
1 sweet apple, cored
1 cup coconut milk
1 Tbsp organic raw agave, or date paste
1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
pinch Himalayan salt
1/2 tsp Madras Curry
1/4 tsp Cayenne
1/4 cup water (optional)

(You can use Organic coconut milk from a can, or make your own milk by blending the water and meat from 1 young Thai coconut in your blender)
Cut the Kabocha squash in half lengthwise, removing seeds and fibrous material from the cavity
Remove the outer rind from the squash with a vegetable peeler or large knife
Cut the squash into small pieces and place in a high-speed blender
Add the cored and chopped apple to the blender with the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth (adding optional water if the soup is too thick)
Garnish soup with grated squash, fresh sprouts, raw pumpkin seeds, or sprinkle of cayenne

Recipe - Peach Crumble

2011-08-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

Funny how people new to raw foods start with complicated recipes that come with a long list of ingredients - and are quick to give up on the idea of raw foods when the recipes don't work out.

But as you progress, you will begin to notice that the raw foods you prepare over and over are often the simplest! Less ingredients, purer foods, less work, a taste explosion in your mouth - all good incentives to keep going!

To me this acronym says it all - KISS (Keep It Simple Silly)! As a Raw Chef I have learned this lesson well. When a dish turned out to be a disaster, usually there were so many ingredients that I overly complicated what should have been a quick and easy meal to prepare. So here is one of my all time favourite desserts - FAST, SIMPLE and EASY - I can come home and make it up in 5 minutes or less.

Here are THREE REASONS you may want to soak all nuts and seeds before using them.

Soaking makes nuts and seeds easier to digest.
Nuts/seeds naturally contain enzyme inhibitors for the purpose of protecting the nuts/seeds until they have what they need to grow. Once soaked, rinse nuts/seeds well, and throw away the soak water containing the enzyme inhibitors which are very acidic to the body .
Soaking activitates a powerful germination process in the nuts and seeds.

Peach Crumble

1 or 2 fresh peaches, sliced
1/4 to 1/3 cup raw pecans (that have been soaked and dehydrated)
2 Medjool dates (soaking makes them easier to process)
pinch Himalayan salt
Agave (Optional)

Place sliced peaches in a small bowl (Optional - drizzle Agave over peaches)
In a food processor, or mini chopper, process pecans, dates and salt
Mixture should resemble a course crumble
If too moist, just add a few more pecans and process again
Crumble topping over peaches - and enjoy
Yield: about 1 cup for one person

Buckwheaties

2011-08-24T23:44:00.008-07:00

This simple breakfast cereal is a staple in my kitchen! You can dress it up by adding nuts, seeds, chopped dates, your favourite berries, or fresh fruit. But, when I serve Buckwheaties in a cereal bowl with bananas and my favourite nut milk, it brings back childhood memories of listening for the crunch in every spoonful of my crispy rice cereal.

Every couple of weeks, I like to prepare a large batch of Buckwheaties. This way I always have some on hand for: cereal; sprinkling on salads; in wraps for extra crunch; adding to cakes; or grinding into flour.

Soak Buckwheat Groats in three times as much water for at least 4 hours
After soaking, drain and rinse them really, really well
If you don't want to sprout them, simply spread on mesh dehydrator trays as below
If you do want to sprout them, leave Groats sitting in a collander on top of a bowl
Cover the bowl with a tea towel and leave on the counter for 1-2 days until the sprouted tails are visable
While Groats are sprouting on the counter, keep rinsing and draining them 2-3 times a day
After a final rinse, the Groats are spread on mesh dehydrator trays
Dehydrate at 105 degrees for approx 5-8 hours, or until Groats are dry and crispy to the touch

Stored in the fridge in large covered glass jars, Buckwheaties will last for a few months

Day 4 Green Smoothie Challenge

2011-08-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

With much renewed energy, I awoke happy and looking forward to how my day would unfold. This is how we should greet each day - it is not only a possibility, but can become our reality - if this is what we intend!

The final day of this GS Challenge was a busy one for me since I was doing a Food Demo in Mission. My thanks to Margo and the gang at the Pantry Natural Foods for such a great time. We had large crowds, it was a lot of fun, and everyone was happy with their raw pasta and green smoothie samples!

Overall this 4 days has brought me back to myself, and once again I was reminded that by giving our body true nourishment, and cultivating a balance of physical and emotional aliveness - we open the door to vitality! Here are a few things I discovered:

Cravings are only habits which CAN be changed
My body CAN function in a more efficient manner on less food
Food is one part of the puzzle and we CAN listen to our inner guidance system for the rest
Energy or immune system lows CAN be viewed as a tool leading us to radiant health
Without TV, radio, newspapers, and especially the opinions of others, I CAN have the freedom to be creative and fulfill my dreams (Additional Note: From this one action I am feeling positive effects many days later! More and more clarity every day, and the one time I hooked back into cable TV, I felt an immediate drop in energy. No more cable TV for me - finally space to breathe, focus, learn, and express knowledge through positive action!)
Connecting to nature CAN open a new way of feeling and relating to life
Opening my heart and connecting within myself CAN strengthen my whole being
We CAN override our preconditioned programming about physical and emotional health - we are what we think!

Day 3 Green Smoothie Challenge

2011-08-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

Woohoo - already on day 3 and it feels as if I could keep on going! This morning woke up happy, clear-headed, and ready to take on the world.

Black & Blue GS

There are absolutely no cravings after passing day 1, and although I haven't stepped on a scale, it feels like I have shed a couple of pounds.

Many people feel as if their head is in a constant fog (headachy, dull, heavy, muddled thoughts), and think this is normal having never felt clear-headed for comparison. But when you allow the body to heal itself, you discover what it is like to feel wonderful! You may experience feelings of lightness, openness, joy, and even discover new possibilities and solutions.

Day 2 - Green Smoothie Challenge

2011-08-11T19:46:00.000-07:00

Already on second day of my GS Challenge and feeling great. And it was a challenge today coming up with a new GS, but with juicy canteloupe and ripe peaches in the fridge, the solution presented itself! Here is a picture of my GS dinner today which could also be used as a pudding.

Canteloupe Kale Charger

What have I noticed so far? Well as to be expected, I am feeling differences in my body. My digestive system is doing its job and bowels are cleaning house. I know my immune system is off because I am feeling a bit of unusual drowsiness. Usually I have a raw dessert, cookie, etc in the fridge for a sweet taste, but find that I am not missing this at all. And there are no hunger pangs today - I really enjoy my smoothie at dinner time, but not because I am starving. Energetically, I am more in tune with the electro-magnetic fields surrounding different life forms, and it was very noticeable when picking berries yesterday.

What can you expect? If you are not used to consuming large quantities of raw organic fruit and greens, it is possible you may feel worse to begin with. This is a sign that your intelligent body is saying "great, it's time to do some house cleaning." Stored toxins are being released into your bloodstream and bowels and can, sometimes but not always, create headaches, rashes, nausea, runny noses, night sweats etc as they are flushed out of your body. If this happens, make sure you drink plenty of pure water, 2-3 litres a day. These cleansing reactions usually only last for 1-4 days and are cause to celebrate that you are on the road to better health!

Are you an observer or a participant? While following this GS Challenge is one thing, participating is quite another (sort of like watching from the sidelines and never getting into the game). If abundant health is your focus, then my hope is that you have your own experience with Green Smoothies. We can read till the cows come home, but by personalizing this knowledge through taking action, we create our own experience, moving us forward on our path.

New GS recipes to share? Whether you are a GS newbie or a GS expert, why not share your experiences and GS recipes for the benefit of others? My experience has been that as I increased the amount of living, unprocessed foods in my daily menus, the better I felt.

EMAIL YOUR NEW CREATIONS FOR ME TO TRY OUT - AND I'LL POST THEM ON THIS BLOG!

Contact me at ezrawliving@earthanimals.ca

Day 1 - Green Smoothie Challenge

2011-08-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

Blueberry Blast

Well I started off this 4-day Green Smoothie Challenge by making a Green Smoothie (GS) that seemed to fit the name Blueberry Blast - here is a picture of my first GS of the day! Have a look on 'My Daily Eats' page - this is where you will find all the recipes.

After finishing off this blender full of delicious GS (and since I am not eating) I got down to the business of storing my food leftovers in the freezer - don't worry food that tastes this good will be defrosted on Sunday!

Spent a wonderful afternoon berry picking at Warkentin Organic Farm 604-826-7230 (see picture in July 11/11 post). I love being out in the fields and was filled with gratitude for all these luscious berries just waiting to be picked.

Feeling a bit hungry at dinnertime and wonder if I am actually hungry, or is it a habitual reflex to eat around this time of day? Either way, I made myself a new GS, Strawberry Milkshake, that turned out really good. Remember to look under 'My Daily Eats' for recipe!

4-DAY GREEN SMOOTHIE CHALLENGE

2011-08-09T23:40:00.001-07:00

Instead of a detox, or a fast, I prefer to refuel my body, and refresh my senses, by taking a few days off from food and just drinking blender drinks containing an abundance of organic nutrient dense dark leafy greens, fruits, and water.

So from Wed August 10 until midnight August 13, I am drinking only Green Smoothies - not eating anything else for these 4 days! YOU'RE WELCOME TO JOIN ME!

4-DAY GREEN SMOOTHIE CHALLENGE:

Once again, it is time for me to Regenerate, Reactivate, and Restore this body, mind, and spirit - and this is how I do it!
I disconnect from cable TV, newspapers, radio, outside opinions, and material things
I connect with nature, movement of energy, the Universe within, and the formless
I give my digestive system a well deserved rest - drinking a blended drink requires less energy
Each day I will post my Green Smoothie recipes, let you know how I am feeling, and share new awarenesses as they come
A basic Green Smoothie is usually 60% organic fruit, 40% organic dark leafy greens (no starchy vegetables), and 2 cups water
Be aware that combining starchy vegetables with fruits can cause gas in the intestines
Dark leafy greens are the only food group that helps digest other foods through stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes - so greens can be combined with any other foods - from Victoria Boutenko
During the next 4 days drink as many blenders full of Green Smoothie as you want - and trust me you will not feel deprived
STARTING WEDNESDAY AUG 10 IN THE MORNING - If you decide to give it a try - your body will thank you!
Contact me at ezrawliving@earthanimals.ca for questions or support!

Dehydrating Cherries

2011-07-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

Cherries are in season for such a short time - but we can make the best of this ripe, delicious harvest by setting aside a portion to freeze or dehydrate - that is if you don't eat them all as soon as you get home!

During the first batch, when I pitted fresh cherries some precious cherry juice was wasted. The second batch worked much better with frozen cherries, which aside from giving me red thumbs, is really very simple! So you can start with fresh or frozen cherries, the choice is yours.

To remove the pits from the cherries without losing most of the juice, I freeze cherries in small batches and let them thaw a tiny bit before I remove the pits by hand (I must get a cherry pitter).

Next I drain the pitted defrosting cherries, in a colander over a bowl, which allows the cherries to release their lovely juice as they defrost. By storing the cherry juice in a glass jar with a lid in the refrigerator, I now have fresh cherry juice ready to be used in recipes, or poured over a fruit salad!

Simply spread the cherries (now separated from pits and juice) onto a paraflexx sheet on a dehydrator tray - with the skin side down to preserve remaining juice. Dehydrate at 105 degrees F for 12 hours and remove paraflexx sheet, leaving cherries to finish drying on the mesh tray liner. Dehydrate another 12 hours until dry. They should not be crispy, and look like raisins with a bit of moisture remaining.

The dehydrated cherries can now be stored in a glass jar with a lid. I keep mine in the refrigerator - ready when I need them! Imagine how the flavours in your recipes will pop by adding dehydrated cherries! Yummy!

Farewell To Bandit

2011-07-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

July 15, 2011, a friend of mine passed over - his name was BANDIT - and I would like to take a moment here to honour him for enriching our lives and bringing us joy!

Working with animals is all about building relationships – which makes each loss a deep and difficult one for me – so here are three pictures of this amazing boy, which I would like to share with you.

Bandit made my first dog walking visit to his home a memorable one! I remember sitting patiently on the floor inside the front door while Bandit warned me, slowly gave me the once over, decided I was OK, and finally (after some time) gave me his approval - but from that time onward we were friends.

He was a playful, loving boy who thoroughly enjoyed his rubdowns, and really loved his family (mom Sherry and dad Tom, dog buddies Taz and Sam, and kitties Watts and Flower). Although we will all really miss Bandit, we can be grateful that he lived a life full of joy and love right where he wanted to be, surrounded by his wonderful family.

Local Organic Berries

2011-07-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

Certified Organic Associations of BC (COABC) http://www.certifiedorganic.bc.ca/ is the main website where you can look up Organic and Bio-Dynamic farmers in your area. Here are just a few farms from their list for Abbotsford and Chilliwack.

Since we can finally start picking, now is the time to consider the health benefits of choosing Organic over commercially grown produce. If the farm sign has a large green checkmark and says Certified, you know the produce has been grown without artificial chemicals, hormones, or genetically modified or engineered organisms (GMOs). All of these pesticides and fertilizers can create an unhealthy toxic build up in your body that may be detrimental to your health. The choice is up to you!

Fresh picked from Warkentin Organic Farm

ABBOTSFORD
Bateman Berry Farm 604-850-0377 - blueberries
Biota Farm 604-859-5959 - fruit, hens, eggs, vegetables (Bio-Dynamic)
Blue Heaven 604-850-2278 - blueberries
Casa Blanca Farm 604-607-0043 - apples, pears, peaches, raspberries
Collin Regehr Farms 604-302-5489 - raspberries, strawberries, blueberries
Glen Valley Organic 604-857-0017 - mixed veggies, greens, fruit, berries
Warkentin Organic Farm 604-826-7230 - blueberries, strawberries, blackberries

CHILLIWACK
Forstbauer Family Farm 604-794-3999 - blueberries, veggies, herbs, fruit, eggs, beef (Bio-Dynamic)
Lenz Farm 604-823-6577 - hazelnuts
Ohm Organic Farm 604-703-3200

LANGLEY
Casa Blanca Farm 604-607-0043 - apples, pears, peaches, raspberries, hazelnuts

Smoothies and Smoothie Bars

2011-07-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

With the overwhelming variety of options presented to customers at a smoothie bar, how do you know which smoothie is the right fit for you? You may want to begin by asking some questions before ordering your drink.

What exactly is in the additives and what are they designed (or processed) specifically for? Are the ingredients organic? Is the produce locally sourced? And those with special dietary needs may want to know: Is it dairy-free? Is it nut-free? Do any of the additives contain wheat? Is it made from truly raw plant-based foods?

Menus may include fruit smoothies (usually combinations of frozen fruit, ice and optional powders); green smoothies (sometimes the same as fruit with green powders added); and then there is the addition of milk (which could be dairy); coconut milk or coconut water as a base; protein shakes (powders and additives); and of course booster drinks (superfoods, maca, etc).

What about pure, simple, delicious, nutrient packed smoothies? Smoothie bars may offer only minimal advice about the benefits of doing it the natural way, and one of the best people I know to keep you well informed is Victoria Boutenko http://www.rawfamily.com/ I hope you will tour her website, which is an excellent source on the healing benefits of greens in our diet. (Click on the Events tab above for VICTORIA'S 2nd visit to ABBOTSFORD on AUGUST 8.)

You can always ask for a natural supergreen smoothie with wheatgrass, mango, bananas and water. Or how about trying dandelion greens, cucumber and water, or broccoli sprouts, blackberries and water? And have you ever considered adding kale, carrot tops, beet greens, cilantro, sprouts, or miner's lettuce in combination with different fresh or frozen fruits and water? These are all powerhouse drinks that will energize you.

While fruit smoothies can be light, delicious and refreshing, savory smoothies can be prepared from greens and nonstarchy vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, etc. If you want your smoothies to be less sweet, start by adding low-glycemic index fruit such as berries and apples.

We can get plenty of phytonutrients, protein, vitamins, and minerals from fresh greens. One pound of kale contains more protein than the USDA daily recommentation. And while adding green powders may be better than eating french fries, they are still a processed food, where the nutritional content may be altered in the process. I believe in consuming large quantities of fresh organic greens and fresh organic fruits for optimal health benefits.

When I began my journey with smoothies, I went the expensive route of adding protein powder, maca, flax oil, superfoods, etc. But as I gradually evolved into making pure green smoothies with no additives (other than Chia seeds for Omega-3), that is when I began noticing extra energy. Finally, a blender combination that was easy to digest, without additives, nuts, seeds or oils - that made me feel ohhh so good!

The bottom line is that you must have your own experience - what is right for one is not right for all! So try each version of a smoothie for at least a week, and pay close attention to what your body is telling you.

Organic Fruits, Greens, and Veggies

2011-06-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

When in the grocery store produce aisle the other day, a woman asked me a question about the organic bananas I was choosing. "Are these the supposedly organic bananas" she asked in a mocking tone? Her mistrust of the organic labelling process was obvious, so I simply replied that yes these bananas were organic and directed her to the conventional bananas.

As an advocate of organic and biodynamic foods normally I would happily take the time to offer information on the health benefits of organic produce, but in this case an obviously hostile confrontation was not the answer. There are always two sides - some people are ready to discuss openly and some people are not!

I'm grateful to this woman for reminding me that not everyone is aware of the levels of pesticides on conventional foods. Personally I buy as much organic produce as is available, and purchase produce from the dirty dozen Only If Organic (this includes many red bell peppers - but never green bell peppers as they are unripened fruit). So here is some information that I'l like to share with readers of this blog.

THE DIRTY DOZEN

Apples Peaches

Bell peppers Pears

Celery Potatoes

Cherries Red raspberries

Grapes Spinach

Nectarines Strawberries

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s own lab testing reveals that even after washing, some fruits and vegetables consistently carry much higher levels of pesticide residue than others. Based on an analysis of more than 100,000 U.S. government pesticide test results, researchers at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a research and advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C., have developed the “dirty dozen” fruits and vegetables above, that they say you should always buy organic if possible - because their conventionally grown counterparts tend to be laden with pesticides.

Among fruits, nectarines had the highest percentage testing positive for pesticide residue. Peaches and red raspberries had the most pesticides (nine) on a single sample.

Among vegetables, celery and spinach most often carried pesticides, with spinach having the highest number (10) on a single sample. (For more information on pesticide levels for other types of produce, go to http://www.foodnews.org/ )

Recipe - Rainbow Stir Fry

2011-06-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I felt like preparing something sweet and simple for today's lunch, so here is what I came up with.

This dish doesn't take long to put together and is easily dehydrated overnight.

At the bottom I have given you three suggestions for plating - feel free to play with the dressing till it suits your tastebuds - and serve it your way!

Rainbow Stir Fry
1 cup broccoli, chopped into florets
1 cup fresh pineapple, in 1" chunks
1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 red pepper, thinly sliced
1 carrot, peeled and sliced into noodles
1/2 cup snow peas

Dressing:
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp Agave
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp gluten-free Tamari

Prepare the fruit and vegetables as above and place in a flat bottom glass casserole (an 8 x 11-1/2" casserole gives two good size servings)
In a bowl whisk together the olive oil, Agave, lemon juice, and Tamari
Pour the mixture over the fruit and vegetables and stir to coat
Remove bottom 2 trays from your dehydrator and place casserole on bottom of dehydrator
Dehydrate at 105 degrees for about 6-8 hours, or until softened and warmed through
Option 1 - I used a vegetable peeler to make zucchini noodles, placed the noodles on a plate, and covered them with the stir fry
Option 2 - You could sprinkle the stir fry with Sesame seeds and Enjoy As Is
Option 3 - Increase the amount of dressing and make a veggie rice. Place veggie rice on a plate and pour the stir fry and dressing over top of the rice.

Ratio of Omega-3s to Omega-6s in our Diet

2011-06-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

Here is some new research for you to consider! The omega-3 molecule is unique in its ability to rapidly change its shape. This exceptional flexibility of omega-3s is passed to organs that absorb it. Omega-3s thin the blood of humans and animals as well as the sap of plants. As a result of these qualities, omega-3s are utilized by the fastest functioning organs in the body. For example, omega-3s enable our hearts to beat properly, our blood to flow freely, our eyes to see, and our brains to make decisions faster and more clearly.

The omega-6 fatty acids, on the other hand, serve the opposite function: they thicken the blood of humans and animals as well as the juices of plants. Omega-6s solidify and cause inflammation of the tissues. Some scientists link an excess of omega-6s in the human diet with such conditions as heart disease, stroke, arthritis, asthma, menstrual cramps, diabetes, headaches, and tumor metastases.

Excerpts from http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fats-and-oils/7554/2 and Victoria Boutenko, http://www.rawfamily.com/

Chia seeds: (1 ounce)
Total Omega-3 fatty acids 4915 mg (3 times) more omega 3s
Total Omega-6 fatty acids 1620 mg

Flax seeds: (1 ounce)
Total Omega-3 fatty acids 6388 mg (3.9 times) more omega 3s
Total Omega-6 fatty acids 1655 mg

Walnuts (1 cup)
Total Omega-3 fatty acids 10623 mg
Total Omega-6 fatty acids 44567 mg (4.2 times) more omega-6s

Almonds (1 cup)
Total Omega-3 fatty acids 5.7 mg
Total Omega-6 fatty acids 11462 mg (2000 times) more omega-6s

Lettuce, green leaf, raw (1 head, 360 g)
Total Omega-3 fatty acids 209 mg (2.4 times) more omega-3s
Total Omega-6 fatty acids 86.4 mg

Spinach, raw (1 bunch, 340 g)
Total Omega-3 fatty acids 469 mg (5.3 times) more omega-3s
Total Omega-6 fatty acids 88.4 mg

OMEGA PUDDING (makes 3/4 cup)
1 Tbsp Chia seeds
1/4 cup water
2 large Calimyrna Figs, chopped
1 banana

- Soak Chia seeds in 1/4 cup water for 15 minutes, till it thickens into a gel
- Soak Figs separately in enough water to cover for 15 minutes, and save soak water
- Blend banana and Figs in blender, adding a bit of Fig soak water if necessary
- Stir blender mixture into Chia seeds, mixing thoroughly - and enjoy!

Gluten-Free Life

2011-05-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

Since this blog is about sharing possibilities for healthy living, why not revisit the subject of gluten intolerance (from a previous post)? Being a raw foodie I have already had my own experience of the benefits of eating a simpler way without processed foods. But you may want to ask yourself how many products containing wheat, oats, etc are already in your diet - and then consider the possibility that these products may be the cause of lingering problems in your body? An easy way to do your own test is to eliminate breads and gluten products for a couple of weeks and see how you feel. If you do feel considerably better - then maybe you would benefit from a gluten-free diet!

You can see more in my September 10, 2010 post, but here are a few of the symptoms that may arise from gluten intolerance: fatigue, joint pain, gastrointestinal distress, headaches, weight loss, depression, dermatitis, lactose intolerance, and anemia, just to mention a few.

When I chose to stop eating bread, bagels, and wheat products, my sinus symptoms went away, no aches or pains, and I did not have that bloated feeling. So after some research, I decided that in my raw food classes I would provide the option of being wheat-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free. And from there it was a natural progression for me to adopt this way of eating into my lifestyle - this has been a good choice that feels right for me!

For more information - view my post in the Blog Archives on September 10, 2010 - which includes links to follow!

Mother's Day Brunch

2011-05-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Went to Organic Lives Restaurant in Vancouver today with my family - and for me this was just my cup of tea (although tea was not involved)! If you have not yet been there, I would recommend a visit to this wonderful raw food restaurant. Since I forgot my camera, I have no pictures to share with you, but here is what we ate!

Mother's Day Brunch Menu:
Morning Glory Elixir - drink of pink grapefruit juice, raspberry granita, coconut water
Coconut Lemon Pot-de-Creme with kiwi, strawberries, pineapple, pear, vanilla and lavender
Mushroom and Spinach Crepes served with fennel, kale, black radish salad and orange ginger miso dressing
Cinnamon French Toast with bananas, walnuts, maple syrup and coconut cream

If you want to try it out, here is the address: 1829 Quebec Street (at 2nd Ave West), and they are open 7 days a week from 9 - 9 pm.

Event - Dr Brian Clement

2011-05-07T12:31:00.000-07:00

On May 5, 2011 we were lucky enough to have a visit from Brian on his way through to Calgary (where he was scheduled for a talk to 500 people). For those of you who were unable to attend, sadly you missed out on an excellent presentation!

As Director of Hippocrates Health Institute, he has seen it all and spoke from his many years of experience, sharing lots of information and many tips for healthy living. This was my first time attending one of his talks and I am sooo grateful to have been there - I learned so much. My hope is that he will join us next year for another great talk!

Thank you to Brian for travelling throughout North America sharing his message of healthy living!

Recipe - Zesty Orange Chia Pudding

2011-05-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

My bag of juicy organic oranges and Chia seeds wanted to get together somehow, so today this quick and healthy dessert came into being!

The oil from Chia seeds contains a very high concentration of omega-3 fatty acid - approximately 64%. Chia seeds contain no gluten and trace levels of sodium, and when mixed with water, Chia seeds create a mucilaginous gel that helps heal the stomach lining. There are no known toxic components of Chia.

2 oranges, peeled and seeded
1/4 tsp (or less) orange zest, grated
2 tsp Agave
1-1/2 tsp raw carob powder (optional)
1 tsp raw cacao powder (optional)
1/4 cup Chia seeds, dry

You can make this an orange pudding by simply omitting the carob and cacao powders
Grate the orange peel (before peeling orange) and set aside this zest
Place oranges in a blender and blend until you have a smooth liquid (about 1-1/2 cups)
In a bowl mix together orange liquid, orange zest, Agave, carob and cacao powders
Add 1/4 cup Chia seeds to bowl and blend through
Allow to sit for 10 minutes to thicken
Serve in dessert dishes topped with an orange slice!

Recipe - Garlicky Green Beans

2011-04-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

Been day-dreaming of green beans with lots of garlic (welcome to my world) and when I discovered a bag of organic green beans at Safeway, I came home and created this recipe. This serves as a wonderful side dish if you are preparing an Easter meal - Garlicky and Delish!

Garlicky Green Beans

1 pound of organic green beans
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and soaked
2 cloves of garlic, pressed or finely chopped
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp fresh lemon juice
pinch of Himalayan salt

Soak sun-dried tomatoes for 15 minutes and then drain off the water (you could use the soak water to flavour other recipes)
Combine all ingredients in a glass casserole with a flat bottom (8 x 8" works well), mixing all together until well coated
Remove bottom 2 trays from your dehydrator
Place casserole into bottom of dehydrator and dehydrate at 105 degrees for 5-8 hours
Stir mixture every few hours to coat evenly and taste - till done to your satisfaction!

Enchilada Sandwiches

2011-04-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

It was so quick and easy to make my delicious lunch today! The trick is to prepare a few raw dishes once or twice a week that can be stored in the fridge. Then when you come home hungry, all you have to do is put the dishes together for a quick nutritious meal. Some of the things taught In my Dehydrator Essentials Class were how to make enchiladas in 4-inch or 6-inch sizes, marinated veggies and raw mayo.

Enchilada shells are so versatile - here is a different way for you to try!

#1 - Lay a mini enchilada shell flat
Place a couple of spoonfuls of marinated veggies down the centre of each shell
Drizzle some raw mayo over the veggies
#2 - Top this mixture with some home grown sprouts
Fold enchilada shell in half to fit in the palm of your hand
#3 - Enjoy this quick and easy meal - taco style!

Recipes - Cheezy Kelp Noodles

2011-02-23T18:34:00.000-08:00

This noodle dish was thrown together from leftovers in my fridge. I can't believe how easy it was and how tasty it turned out - amazing things do happen when you just let go.

This is not precise, just what I remember, since I was into enjoying the moment and having a good time!

Cheezy Kelp Noodles

1 pkg Kelp noodles

1/4 cup chopped red pepper

1/4 cup chopped broccoli
3 Tbsp nutritional yeast

1 tsp lemon juice

Dash Himalayan salt

Leftovers from my fridge:

1/2 cup marinated and dehydrated root veggies

1/2 cup Tamari/olive oil marinade

3 Tbsp chipotle mayo (you could use any raw cheese)

After rinsing and soaking kelp noodles for 10 minutes, they were put in a glass casserole
After that everything was added to the casserole in no particular order
Kept adding and taste testing until flavours danced divinely and then put the casserole into dehydrator for 2 hours at 105 degrees
Voila - a new dish came alive!

Recipes - Strawberry Macaroons

2011-02-12T22:00:00.000-08:00

Here is an easy recipe to make for Valentine's Day! It's my adaption of an Ani Phyo recipe that has only 5 ingredients, so it is fast and easy, but you will need to use a dehydrator to dry these.

This recipe is for Strawberry Macaroons, but you can substitute pineapple to make yellow macaroons, or cacao to make chocolate macaroons.

Strawberry Macaroons

1/3 cup pitted Medjool dates

1-1/2 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen and thawed
1/4 cup agave

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups shredded coconut

Place dates, strawberries, agave, and vanilla in your food processor and process into a puree. Add coconut, and process again to mix well.
Use a 2 Tbsp scoop to make 12 macaroons and place onto dehydrator trays. Dehydrate at 104 degrees for 4 hours.

Recipes - Purple Power Smoothie

2011-01-05T16:55:00.000-08:00

How about starting off the New Year by drinking a blender of nutritious green smoothie every day? Green smoothies are easy to make, and quick to clean up after. To prepare a pitcher of green smoothie takes less than 5 minutes, including cleaning. Here are some of the benefits of kale and blueberries:

Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are an excellent source of iron (especially important for women), vitamin A, and Lutein for eye health. Best of all you know those omega-3s everyone's talking about? They reside in dark greens (including seaweed, which is why they're concentrated in fish).
Blueberries have sky-high levels of antioxidants, which combat the damage done by inflammation. Anthocyanins, the natural plant compounds that give blueberries their deep colour, may have antidiabetic effects as well. And new research suggests blueberries might protect the heart muscle from damage.

Purple Power Smoothie

2 cups water

1/2 bunch organic kale, stems removed
1 large organic orange, peeled and seeded
1 large organic banana, peeled
1-1/2 cups organic blueberries
1 tbsp flax oil

Blend ingredients in a high speed blender and enjoy!
When using about 60% ripe organic fruit mixed with about 40% organic greens, the fruit taste dominates the flavour, yet at the same time the greens balance out the sweetness of the fruit.

Recipes - EZ Date Paste

2010-12-27T13:07:00.000-08:00

This Holiday Season I hope you are enjoying family, friends, and taking time for yourself to unwind, relax, and regain your balance! For myself, I spent a joyful Christmas with my daughter and her two sons, and was really happy to connect with my son and relatives in Ontario (we could have talked for hours). So now I am getting back into my itty bitty kitchen to create new raw recipes for the booklet I am working on. YES, I DID SAY I AM WORKING ON A BOOKLET.....yesterday I made a Chocolate Pumpkin Pie that was divine, and today I am creating Gingerbread Cookies - what fun!

So with all the holiday desserts being enjoyed at this time of year, I wanted to give you another choice to soothe that sweet tooth. Even though there is a lot of info on the negative effects of sugar, there are alternatives - especially for us raw foodies! So how about taking control over what you eat and making your own from scratch?

Top right picture shows how the Date Paste will look in the blender when you quickly mix it up at home. My blender, a Vitamix, whips this into a smooth, thick and creamy paste, but a regular blender will also do the trick.

Three of the best varieties of dates for raw food prep are medjool, khadrawi and honey dates. (Date sugar, made from dates only, is heated in the process and not considered a raw food.) I use medjool dates and love them even as a snack when in a hurry.

Maybe you are wondering what you can use the EZ Date Paste for? You can use it as a replacement for anything that calls for a liquid sweetener, like agave, honey, yacon syrup, stevia, date sugar, maple syrup, brown rice syrup, etc. But since Date Paste will be less sweet than other sweeteners, you will want to keep taste testing to find your sweetness level.

EZ Date Paste
1 cup Medjool dates, with pits removed
1/2 to 3/4 cup water

Combine these 2 ingredients in your blender
Mix until a smooth paste-line consistency
Pour into a glass jar with a lid and store in fridge for at least a week
Using only 1/2 cup of water will make it really thick
I used 3/4 cup water for 1 cup of date paste

Recipes - EZ Rawpple Mash

2010-12-07T10:26:00.000-08:00

Here is a great solution to satisfy your craving for sweets (with the bonus of being very filling). And if your goal is to keep raw food simple - this recipe couldn't be any easier! (No food processor??? Just chop apple, dates, and mash banana!)

1 organic apple, cubed
2-3 Medjool dates, soaked
1 small organic banana, peeled

Soaking the dates for a few minutes makes easier mixing in food processor
Drain liquid from dates and put in food processor with cubed apple
Process to small chunks
Add banana and process again for a few seconds (not to liquify)
Place in a bowl and enjoy
Goji berries or raisins can be added to food processor (optional)
Yield: 3/4 cup for one person

Recipes - Brazil Nut Truffles

2010-12-06T20:56:00.000-08:00

If you haven't dried the fruit yourself, use dried fruit that is organic and unsulfured. Dried fruits like blueberries, pears, papaya, pineapple and apricots all work well.

Selenium found in Brazil nuts is a powerful antioxidant linked to lower rates of cancer and heart disease and may help boost the immune system along with possibly discouraging the aging process.

1 cup Brazil nuts, ground
1/2 cup coconut flour (process shredded coconut in food processor)
1/2 cup organic dried apricots, unsulfured
1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/3 cup Agave
1 tsp vanilla extract or 1/2 vanilla bean
Extra Agave and ground Brazil nuts (or shredded coconut) to roll truffles

Process all ingredients in food processor until dough turns into a ball
Scoop spoonful of dough and shape each spoonful into round balls
Take one truffle and dip in Agave
Then drop truffle into brazil nuts (or shredded coconut) and roll until coated
Place on plate and repeat for each truffle
Yield: 20 truffles

Kabocha Squash

2010-11-20T17:29:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of a large Kabocha Squash (weighing about 4 pounds) that was given to my daughter by a friend of hers who had grown it. I'll definitely use kabocha again!

Called Japanese pumpkin, kabocha began its history in Japan where it was favoured for its sweetness and pleasing texture.

Kabocha's hard, deep green skin, boasts exceptional flavor to those who have had the pleasure of tasting its succulent, naturally sweet flesh, even sweeter than butternut squash, although the occasional one may forget to be sweet. The flavour and texture of the Japanese pumpkin is like a sweet potato crossed with a pumpkin.

Kabocha has an abundance of beta carotene, along with vitamin C, iron, potassium, and also folic acid, calcium, and trace B vitamins.

So what to do with this much squash? Well today, a pasta dish sounded awfully good to me, so out came the Spirooli vegetable slicer and squash noodles quickly appeared! Next a creamy sauce was whipped up in the Vitamix - using the old add and taste method!

The sauce was mixed with the squash pasta noodles until they were well coated and then I encircled the pasta with some marinated veggies that were already prepared.

So today I enjoyed a quick and easy raw food dinner that was absolutely delicious - and looked amazing on the plate! Hmmm.....now what to do with the rest of the squash?

Recipes - EZ Raw Chocolate

2010-11-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

This is a very simple chocolate recipe - give it a try and you'll be pleasantly surprised! You can substitute dehydrated buckwheat groats, coconut, or goji berries for the nuts, or make it a bit sweeter - it's up to you!

1/2 cup raw cacao butter
1/4 cup coconut oil (room temperature)
1/2 cup raw cacao powder
1/2 cup raw carob powder
1/3 cup raw Agave syrup
1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped

To melt cacao butter, put solid cacao butter in a measuring cup, then sit the measuring cup in a pan of hot water
Coconut oil should be liquid also
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and combine well
Pour into a silicone square mold
Place in freezer for up to 15 minutes
At this point chocolate should be solid enough to cut into squares, or just break into pieces when fully set
To set, return to freezer, or leave overnight in fridge
Turn mold inside out to release chocolate squares

Taste of Health Show Vancouver

2010-10-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

On October 23 a group of us got together and went up to Vancouver to spend the day at the Taste of Health show. Of course we had to snap a picture, so here are a few of my students that were rounded up at picture taking time. Back row from left is May, Lorraine, RawRose, Linda and Chris. Front row from left is Brian, me, and Glen.

Once there everyone scattered in all directions, but we all had a great time visiting the individual table displays, attending the hourly workshops, and taste testing the food samples. A fun day!

Audience at Demo

My teacher, RawRose, was a workshop presenter at the show and made her Banana Lemon Pie. The recipe is in her "Uncooking with RawRose" book. It was just wonderful to see her again!

RawRose Presentation

After the show some of us went to Gorilla Food for a raw meal - it was a great rush to take pictures before we ate - cause we were all very hungry!

Avocado Carrot Soup

Chocolate Fudge & Butterfly Bliss

Nice Bowl

Falafel Wrap

Burger & Jungle Coleslaw

Carrot Cake

Health - Self-Tests for Hypothyroid

2010-10-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

After listening to a teleconference by Dr. Rodger Murphree, I went onto his website http://www.treatingandbeating.com/ and although he is selling a product (which I am not promoting in any way), the information he is providing is worth reading. I downloaded his report on Hypothyroidism, which I would like to share, but the only way I can pass it along is through email. So if you would like a copy please Email Me asking for a copy.

Self-test for an Iodine Deficiency

Dip a cotton ball into USP Tincture of Iodine. (You can get iodine at the drugstore for under $1.)
Paint a 2-inch circle of iodine on your soft skin, like the inner part of your thigh or upper arm.
If the yellowish/orange stain disappears in less than an hour it may mean your body is lacking crucial iodine and has soaked it up.
If the stain remains for more than four hours, your iodine levels may be fine.

Self-test for Body Temperature Low Thyroid

First thing in the morning, while still in bed, shake down and place a mercury thermometer (digital thermometers are not as accurate) under your arm and leave there for ten minutes.
Record your temperature in a daily log. Women who are still having menstrual cycles should take their temperature after the second and third days of the period. Menopausal women can take their temperature on any day.
A reading at, or below, 97.8 may strongly suggest hypothyroid. A reading above 98.2 may indicate hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
If using a digital thermometer, wait 2 hours after waking up and take under the tongue. (Don't eat, drink or brush your teeth 10 minutes before taking temperature).

2 Self-tests for Adrenal Fatigue

#1 Ragland's sign is an abnormal drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number) when a person rises from a lying to a standing position. There should be a rise of 8-10 mm in the systolic (top) number. A drop, or failure to rise, indicates adrenal fatigue.
Example: Take your blood pressure while you are lying on your back. The systolic number is 120 and the diastolic number is 60 (120 over 60). Then take your blood pressure again after immediately standing up.
The systolic number (120) should go up 10 points (from 120 to 130). If it doesn't increasse 10 points, this may indicate adrenal fatigue.
#2 Another way to test for adrenal dysfunction is the pupil dilation exam. To perform this on yourself, you'll need a flashlight and a mirror. Face the mirror, and shine the light in one eye. If after 30 seconds the pupil (black centre) starts to dilate (enlarge), adrenal deficiency may be suspected.
Why does this happen? During adrenal insufficiency, there is a deficiency of sodium and an abundance of potassium, and this imbalance causes an inhibition of the sphincter muscles of the eye. These muscles normally initiate pupil constriction in the presence of bright light. However, in adrenal fatigue, the pupils may actually dilate when exposed to light.

Recipes - Sun-Dried Tomatoes

2010-09-21T12:28:00.000-07:00

Wow - just came home to the full bodied smell of dehydrating tomatoes! Not only does raw food have the amazing tastes and textures that I love, but my home is filled with mouth-watering, stimulating aromas when the dehydrator is used! As you can see, my mason jars are getting filled with nutritious, meaty tasting sun-dried tomatoes!

Maybe in some past life I was a Daschnik (people who work and communicate with the earth and its plants - from the Anastasia books), or maybe I just really appreciate simple, natural whole food, because I experience such joy when working with the vital life force in these foods!

My mandoline is a pleasure to use. I just put it on the thickest setting to slice tomatoes and it helps me go through a box of tomatoes really fast. Tomato slices are placed in a single layer on the mesh of my Excalibur dehydrator tray (for very juicy tomatoes you can put on Paraflexx sheet first.) Dehydrate at 105 degrees F for 12 hours or more, turn slices over, and dehydrate another 12 hours or so until done to your liking! A quick and easy way to make the most of your tomato harvest - PRESERVATIVES and COOKING NOT REQUIRED!

Recipes - Persimmon Pudding

2010-09-09T16:44:00.000-07:00

I just made the most deliciously thick green smoothie pudding - courtesy of Valya Boutenko - definitely going back to Safeway for more persimmons!

Persimmon Pudding
1 persimmon
5 very large strawberries
1 banana
2-3 stalks wild celery, with leaves
(I used regular celery, but since I love wild celery which is more nutritious and tastier, I'll go to the Abbotsford Farmers Market this Saturday for the wild version.)

Remove top and seed from persimmon and discard, place remaining persimmon in a blender
Add strawberries and banana to blender
If using a Vitamix you will want to use the tamber. Omitting water thickens a green smoothie into a pudding.
When fruit is mixed thoroughly, add celery, one stalk at a time
Blend till smooth and pour into dessert dishes - Fast, Easy and Delish!

Recipes - Bruschetta

2010-09-05T15:14:00.000-07:00

What do you serve when unexpected company arrives? A fast and easy solution is to make this tasty bruschetta. The secret is in the planning - when you make raw pizza crusts always keep extra in the freezer. Otherwise raw crackers or raw bread can easily be substituted for the crusts!

Bruschetta
2 cups diced tomatoes

1/2 cup chiffonade basil

1/4 tsp Himalayan salt

1/2 cup (or less) olive oil

1 tsp chopped or pressed garlic
1/4 cup Brazil Nut Parmesan

Mix ingredients in a bowl and spread on 4 slices or triangles of raw pizza crust, bread, or crackers
Two ways to prevent crusts getting soggy: put topping on just before serving; or place a crust size small lettuce leaf on top of the crust before adding the topping
Sprinkle generously with Brazil Nut Parmesan

Brazil Nut Parmesan
1 clove garlic
1/4 tsp Himalayan salt
1 cup Brazil nuts, soaked & dehydrated
(My Brazil nuts are soaked 12 hours or overnight, rinsed very well, and dehydrated until dry. They are then stored in the refrigerator in a sealed glass jar ready for the next time I need them. Brazil nuts must be very dry to become light and fluffy when processed.)

In food processor mix garlic and salt
Add Brazil nuts to food processor and mix until light and fluffy
Store in a covered jar in the fridge
Use as parmesan topping for pasta, soup, or caesar salad

Health - Sensitive to Gluten?

2010-09-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, contaminated oats, and a multitude of other products. It is also a food additive found in everything from ketchup to pharmaceuticals.

What is Celiac disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects 1 in every 133 people in the U.S. 97% of those with Celiac disease go undiagnosed. It is more prevalent in certain populations, particularly in people of Northern European descent, and to have celiac disease, you must carry the gene for it.

Who should care about gluten?
Millions suffer from allergies and gluten intolerance, which can result in medical reactions ranging from temporary discomfort to high cholestrol, depression, arthritis, and Celiac disease.

Is gluten mentioned on food labels?
Not always. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has classified gluten as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). Requirements for proper labeling are currently being formulated by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Some hidden sources of gluten are: imitation bacon bits, beer, blue cheese, brown rice syrup, cereals, coffees, communion wafers, croutons, dairy substitutes, deli meats, fried foods, gravies, hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) and (HPP), imitation seafood, licorice, marinades, salad dressings, seasonings and spices, soy sauce, soup bases, beauty products, stamp and envelope adhesive, Play-Doh, prescription drugs and over the counter medications, vitamins and supplements.

Some Gluten-free foods: Amaranth, Arrowroot, Artichoke (dried and ground as flour), chickpea flour, garfava flour (chickpea and fava bean blend), Kettle chips, lentil flour, soy flour, buckwheat, corn, flax meal, millet, nut flours, potato flour, Quinoa, Rice, Tapioca, Sorghum, Teff.

Rule of Thumb: The closer a food is to its natural state, the more likely it is to be gluten-free. Processed foods often include hidden glutens.

Whether you have celiac disease, a gluten intolerance, or a basic desire to live a healthier life, you may want to view the following:

"The G Free Diet" by Elisabeth Hasselbeck
"Recipes for IBS" by Ashley Koff
G-Free forum

Recipes - Peach Mango Mini Pies

2010-08-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

Ripe, juicy peaches are now in season, and I have been waiting to make little individual fruit pies! So I played around with a recipe I found by Dr. Ritamarie and came up with this version which makes enough for 3 mini 4-inch pies! (But this recipe can easily make 4 mini 4-inch pies with thinner crusts.)

Pie Crusts
3/4 cup pecans, soaked 4 hours
1/4 cup almonds, soaked 6 hours
1/4 cup pitted Medjool dates (3 dates)
1/2 cup dried coconut

Process nuts and coconut in food processor; add dates and process till it holds together
Press 1/2 cup of crust mixture into each mini quiche pan
Place pie crusts in freezer or fridge to set while preparing pie filling
Recipe makes enough to fill 3 quiche pans (4" x 1.75" with removable bottoms)

Peach Mango Filling

2 large peaches, remove skin and pit
1 large mango, peeled and pitted
1 to 2 Medjool dates
1-1/2 to 2 tsp psyllium powder

Cut peaches into bite sized pieces and place in a bowl
Place mangoes, dates and psyllium into a blender; blend until creamy (only adding a little water if needed)
Add mango mixture to peaches in bowl and stir well to combine
Divide peach mango filling equally between 3 mini 4" pie crusts
Sprinkle top with dried coconut, or decorate with fruit
Place in freezer or fridge to set; best if eaten within 2 days

Recipes - Green Smoothie

2010-08-16T11:05:00.000-07:00

Here is my green smoothie for today. I really enjoyed the wild edibles walk on Aug 15 with Karl Hann of Biota Farm who shared so much information with us about growing food on a bio-dynamic farm. Among the 'wild greens' I brought home was some Chickweed (shown in picture) which grows in abundance, so maybe you already have some growing on your property!

2 cups water
4 kale leaves
1/2 bunch beet greens
1/2 bunch chard
handful of chickweed
1/2" piece ginger
10 small yellow plums
1 cup blueberries/blackberries mix

Health - Green Smoothie Challenge (GSC)

2010-08-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

August 10-31, 2010 Held a 3-week trial in Abbotsford to experience the power of Green Smoothies for abundant health, increased energy, regulated weight, and reduced cravings.

We mixed together organic fruit, dark leafy greens and 2 cups of water in a blender at home (no powders, additives, or supplements needed)
No need to even change diet (apart from adding Green Smoothies of course)
Whether a vegan, a steak lover, or a junk food addict, no problem, we drank green smoothies and enjoyed the ride
It was that easy!

For this challenge we made a blender full of Green Smoothie each morning for 3 weeks in August, drank a glass every few hours, kept in refrigerator, and by the end of the day finished the entire blender!

Participants received an initial email with instructions and recipes, and then a group email at the end of each week of the challenge to help, guide and inspire them along the way (weekly email included answers to all questions received + more recipes).

After the challenge is over we get together to compare the challenges and successes of those taking the GSC - and share the healing benefits experienced by participants!

2008 presented 1^st GSC in BC with 100 participants
2009 organized 2nd GSC with 25 participants
2010 organized 3^rd GSC with 30 participants

Health - Balance of Omegas in our Diet

2010-08-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

In Victoria Boutenko's presentation on August 9th, she was sharing her latest research into Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. In her opinion, the results she found show that many of us are including an unbeneficial imbalance of more Omega-6 than Omega-3 in our diets. Victoria also shared a website on nutritional data for foods http://nutritiondata.self.com where each of us can have a look and do our own investigation.

So I did my own search this morning on a few of the foods that are of interest to me, and here are some of the more positive ratios I found. For a comparison, the numbers on the right begin with (3) for Omega-3 or (6) for Omega-6 showing the amount of (3) or (6) contained in 1 cup of the food.

Arugula, raw (3) 3.4 - (6) 2.6 mg
Snap green beans (3) 39.6 - (6) 25.3 mg
Broccoli flower, raw (3) 91.6 - (6) 27.0 mg
Broccoli stalk, raw (3) 147 - (6) 43.3 mg
Brussel sprouts ,raw (3) 87.1 - (6) 39.6 mg
Chinese cabbage, raw (3) 43.3 - (6) 11.4 mg
Cabbage red ,raw (3) 40.0 - (6) 30.3 mg
Cauliflower, raw (3) 37.0 - (6) 11.0 mg
Collards, raw (3) 38.9 - (6) 29.5 mg
Kale, raw (3) 121 - (6) 92.4 mg
Seaweed,Irish Moss (3) 4.7 - (6) 0.2 mg **
Seaweed,Wakame (3) 18.8 - (6) 1.0 mg **
Spinach, raw (3) 41.4 - (6) 7.8 mg

Foods from the list above followed by asterisks (**), indicate a ratio high in Omega-3 and low in Omega-6 (5% or less).

Events - Wild Edibles Nature Walk

2010-08-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

Lambsquarters

Join us for a guided walk on a Bio-Dynamic farm in Abbotsford. Learn what weeds or wild greens are edible and good for you to pick. Karl Hann of Biota Farm will lead us on a walk through his farm and share his extensive knowledge about bio-dynamics with us.

Sunday August 15, 5 - 7 pm
$20 per person
Includes 1 bunch of greens you pick yourself
Email

Goodbye to my friend Harley

2010-08-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

On August 6, a very good friend of mine passed over - his name was HARLEY - and I would like to take a moment here to honour him for enriching my life and bringing me joy!

In these three pictures you can see Harley on the left (whippet, coyote, brown dog mix) and my Emily on the right (golden retriever). For many years Harley and his mom Moneca have been wonderful friends to Emily and me. You see, Harley and Emily were buddies! They loved to run on the path ahead of me as we hiked the trails in Vernon. They seemed to run in synch, side by side with their bodies almost touching - a beautiful memory. Harls ran swift and silent, just like the wind.

Harley was always quick to smile, play and make everyone laugh at his crazy antics and he really loved his family (mom Moneca and kitties Pumpkin and Peaches). I am really missing Harley, but feel comforted in knowing that Emily (who has also passed over) and Harley are running together again!

Recipes - Green Smoothie

2010-08-06T14:11:00.000-07:00

Since Kale is growing in such abundance right now, I used it in my green smoothie today! Here is the recipe if you want to try it for yourself. Did you know that one pound of kale is loaded with nutrients, vitamins, minerals and has more protein than the daily recommendation by the USDA?

2 cups water

1 large, ripe mango

1 banana

1/2" piece ginger

8-10 small yellow plums

1/3 bunch organic parsley

1 bunch organic kale

Health - Balancing Hormones

2010-08-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

Here are 7 simple strategies for restoring hormone balance from Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo:

Consume at least 32 ounces of green drink daily, made from at least a pound of green leafy vegetables. This may sound like a lot but the greens are so important and drinking them rather than just eating them helps increase the quality you consume. You can make delicious smoothies, juices or soups. Greens are filled with antioxidants, minerals and the B vitamin folate, which is very important for hormone balance. Be sure to include sprouts and cruciferous vegetables as they're especially potent hormone balancers.
Break a sweat every day, even if just for 30 second bursts. Exercising to exhaustion for 30 seconds at a time, for a total of 4 to 8 minutes is an amazing way to increase testosterone levels, balance adrenal hormones and the hormone insulin, support your thyroid hormone production and overall strengthen your immune system.
Get outside for at least 20 minutes, preferably in the middle of the day, for fresh air and sunshine. This supports your body in making Vitamin D and excreting the chemicals you breathe from indoor air.
Open your windows, even if just a crack, for at least 15 minutes every day. This brings fresh air in to replace the build up of hormone disrupting chemicals found in indoor air.
Dump the sugar for whole fresh fruits. Sugar disrupts your B vitamins which are essential for hormone regulation. It also affects the balance between estrogen receptors that are protective and those that promote growth; when these receptors get out of balance your risk of hormonally induced cancer increases.
Drink pure water from glass containers, rather than plastic. Hydration is vital to production and circulation of hormones, and chemicals in the plastic have been shown to be hormone disruptors.
Take time each day to appreciate your gifts and the people you love. Appreciation has profound effects on your immune system, the level of stress hormones in your system, and your ability to cleanse and detoxify the toxic exposures that disrupt hormone balance.

Reversing Diabetes

2010-07-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

Many people around the world have been challenging diabetes and changing their lives. Diabetes has been called incurable - but is this true? Here is some food for thought!

In "Reversing Diabetes" by Dr. Julian Whitaker he states: "Aerobic exercise enhances the body's sensitivity to insulin and is recommended because it significantly lowers the insulin requirement. An exercise program should be prescribed for the diabetic patient in the same way that medication or diet is prescribed."
Victoria Boutenko of the Raw Family states: "On many nights when my son would have a glucose level of 350 or more and was unable to fall asleep, I would go for a two mile run with him, sometimes after midnight, to bring his sugar level back down to 120." There is information on reversing diabetes in her website archives at http://www.rawfamily.com/ and while there have a look under her testimonies tab to see what people are saying.
Dr. Gabriel Cousens, MD, Director of the Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center has made an invaluable contribution to the study of diabetes. He invited six Americans suffering from Diabetes to the Tree of Life Center in Arizona. These six diabetics went through a radical 30-day diet and lifestyle change in the hope of reversing or reducing their insulin dependence. You can view this documentary "Raw for 30-Days" on dvd - request it at your library or view at http://www.rawfor30days.com/view.html
Dr. Cousens also has a book "There is a Cure for Diabetes" which you can see on his website http://www.treeoflife.nu
Yacon Syrup - Yacon is a type of plant native to Peru. Yacon root contains a special type of sugar known as oligofructose, or fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS). The human body has no enzyme to hydrolyze (process) FOS. This means it is not converted to glucose in the bloodstream and thus passes through the digestive tract unmetabolized. These unmetabolized sugars then become food for the "friendly" bacteria that live in the colon, increasing their population and simultaneously decreasing harmful bacteria. When something has this effect on our intestinal flora it is known as a "prebiotic" and is very beneficial for overall colon health. It regulates intestinal flora and boosts the immune system. Since the body cannot process the FOS type of sugar, it is generally referred to as "sugar-free" and is not on the glycemic index. The syrup of the root is what is mainly used, and it resembles molasses in colour, consistency, and flavour. (from the book "Sweet Gratitude") This syrup is available at http://www.realrawfood.com/ and http://www.upayanaturals.com/

Recipes - Raw Baby

2010-07-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

Some recipes from the book "Raw for Baby" by Nadine White!
(My beautiful grandbabies, Keegan and Mackenna on a camping weekend)

Awesome Applesauce

Apples are a great fruit to begin babies on. They have predigested forms of fruit sugars and contain pectin which takes up excess water in the intestine, all of which allows for easy digestion and elimination. They also contain many essential vitamins and minerals.
2 small apples (chopped)
1/4 cup pineapple pieces
1/4 cup filtered water
Place all ingredients into a blender and mix until smooth.

Terrific Turnips
Turnips assist with bronchial and sinus disturbances as they help clear excess mucus and phlegm.
1/4 cup turnip pieces
1/4 cup carrot pieces
1 apple
3/4 cup filtered water
Place ingredients into a blender and blend well until smooth.

Beautiful Blueberries
Blueberries contain silicon which is excellent for baby's teeth, hair, skin, nails, lungs, nerves, and many other areas of the body. Silicon also promotes coordinated body movements as baby is learning new motor skills.
1/4 cup blueberries
1/4 avocado
1/2 banana
1/4 cup filtered water
Place all ingredients into a blender and mix until smooth.

Events - Victoria Boutenko

2010-06-18T12:37:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that Victoria is coming to Abbotsford for a 3-hour presentation which will include a 2-hour talk, 1-hour Q&A, and Green Smoothie tasting! I met Victoria at a weekend event last year and thoroughly enjoyed her presentation, the immense amount of information she shared, the Green Smoothies, and of course Victoria who is such an amazingly straight forward person who tells it like it is. If you can attend, it will be well worth it! There will be a 3-week Green Smoothie Challenge following Victoria's talk for those of you who are inspired and want some support getting started - August 10-31.

Victoria Boutenko is an author, teacher, inventor, researcher, artist and mother of three. She teaches classes on healthy living and raw food all over the world. As a result of her research and teachings, thousands of people are drinking and sharing green smoothies.

She has authored 12 Steps to Raw Foods, Green Smoothie Revolution, Raw Family Signature Dishes and Green for Life. Green for Life is an award winning, international best seller which has been translated into 26 languages with over a quarter of a million copies being sold world wide.

Through Victoria's thorough research, she found "that adding blended greens to anyone's diet makes such a profound health improvement, that it may even surpass the benefits of eating a typical all-raw diet with a relatively small amount of greens". You can view more about how her family overcame health challenges simply through dietary changes at http://www.rawfamily.com/

When: Monday, August 9, 2010 from 6 - 9 pm
Where: Trinity Memorial United Church, 33737 George Ferguson Way, Abbotsford
Adults: $20 Advance, $25 at Door
Children: $10 anytime (10 - 18 years)
RawBC current members: $15 Advance, $20 at Door

Purchase Advance Tickets at:
Busye Bodye Naturals Wellness Centre, 33779 Essendene Avenue, Abbotsford, 604-851-5223

Recipes - Mac n' Cheese

2010-05-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

My Lunch Today - Yummm!
I found this internet recipe using Kelp Noodles packaged in water. Just open noodle package, pour out water, and soak noodles in bowl of fresh water - for softer noodles soak longer. I order mine from http://www.realrawfood.com/

1/2 to 3/4 cup water
1/2 cup raw cashews

1/4 cup red bell pepper
2-3 sun-dried tomatoes, soaked 10 minutes
1 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 tbsp miso
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1-2 pkgs Kelp Noodles, soaked in warm water

Add water to a high speed blender slowly starting with 1/2 cup, depending on how thick you want the sauce
Add rest of ingredients (except kelp noodles) and continue blending (until warm if using a VitaMix)
When cheese sauce is creamy and silky pour over kelp noodles and mix thoroughly
Add peas, broccoli bits, cherry tomatoes or anything you want for fun.
IF YOU DO MAKE THIS, I'D LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU THINK!

Events - Farmers Markets

2010-05-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to visit the outdoor farmers market in your area for Locally Grown Organic Greens and Vegetables - and so much more!

Abbotsford Farm and Country Market
* Open from May 8 to October 9
* Saturday 8 am - 12 pm
* Trinity Memorial United Church, 33737 George Ferguson Way
* http://www.abbotsfordfarmandcountrymarket.com/index.htm

Chilliwack Farmers Market
* Open from June 19 to September
* Saturday 9 am to 2 pm
* 10015 Young Road North
* North end of Chilliwack in the front parking lot of Minter Country Garden Store.
* http://www.chilliwackfarmersmarket.com/

Langley Community Farmers Market
* Open from May 26 to October 6
* Wednesday 3 pm to 7 pm
* Langley Campus, Kwantlen Polytechnic University - on Glover Rd side near intersection with Langley Bypass
* http://www.bcfarmersmarket.org/markets/marketdetails.asp?marketID=150

Events - Green Smoothie Workshop

2010-04-28T15:54:00.000-07:00

Workshops in Abbotsford
Looking for abundant health, increased energy, regulated weight, and reduced cravings? Let me show you the easiest way to begin your raw food journey!

Whether you eat a raw food, vegan, vegetarian, or mainstream North American diet, regularly drinking green smoothies can significantly improve your health! Learn how to make a simple delicious drink made from only organic fruit, organic greens and water that is packed with energy and nutrition! Recipes and hearty samples of all the smoothies made are included with hands-on instruction!

Want to host a workshop for your friends? Contact Me

Health - Ripe Fruit to Thrive on Raw

2010-04-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

Posting with permission from Ka and Katie of the Raw Food Family!

"Why do you need access to fully ripe organic fruits to thrive on the raw food diet together with your children? We all want the best for our children, and of course this is nothing less than they deserve.

After having the comparison of living long term in 2 worlds, we need to share some of our observations with you.

We come from northern Europe and did spent most winters there. But since we became raw almost 5 years ago, we managed to spend 3 out of these 5 winters in the tropics. And we did not only spend a 2 weeks holiday there, but many months.

2005-2006 we have been in Thailand and Australia, 2007-2008 we spend the winter on the Canary Islands located at North-West Africa and 2009-2010 - as most of you know -we were in Thailand. And because we experienced such a huuuuge difference in how we felt and thrived we need to share this with you.

We just always felt so much better being somewhere warm! And of course it is partly exactly because of this fact. It is warm, you have access to sunlight, are close to nature, and the kids could run a round naked on the beach. This is one aspect, which helps a lot to be more healthy. But there is another aspect, and this aspect is what I want to talk about here: It is about the quality of the food.

The raw food in warm countries is just so much better! This is something I was not so aware of being in the cold winter, but being back in the tropics I just see, how much more we, and especially the kids, shine and thrive having all that fully ripe tropical fruits.

The most important differences are:
The variety. You have access to many, many different fruits and can alternate them, which makes sense from the nutritional point of view. Different fruits offer different nutrients, and so we can provide a wide spectrum of them to our children.

They are ripe! All of the fruits you can get in the supermarket in the northern hemisphere are picked unripe and green. They lack nutrients, because their connection to the mother tree to mother earth has been cut too early for them to store the amount of nutrients they should have.

The fruits in the tropics have had the honor and pleasure to stay on their trees and bushes as long as possible, before they joyfully were received by us. This is evident. This is important.

You have access to more nutrients, eating in the tropics. This is essential for our kids. Some of the green picked fruits delivered to the USA, Canada and Northern Europe are even toxic in their unripe state.

They are local grown. This is also a fact that just makes so sense. We should eat where we live and eat what lives around us. We absorb the energy and the nutrients from the land we walk, eat and love on, and create a wonderful circle of life which is natural, ecological and the most healthy way of consuming food, not only for us and our children on a physical, and spiritual level, but also on a much bigger scale, on a environmental and global level.

Do you get a sense now, how important it is to have access to these kind of fruits? The good part is: You can still have them, no matter where you live. There are various high quality distributors on the internet, which will offer you exactly these kind of fruits I am talking about here.

But you need to be aware of one thing: This costs money. Money you need to invest, if you want healthy children! If you want to go 100% raw, or even high raw, you need to invest in good food.

If you can not afford to buy good food for yourself and your little loved ones, we do NOT recommend eating or even thinking about eating 100% raw! You will not gain the health level you are looking for by ignoring the facts we write about here.

These ripe exotic fruits are essential for growth and health of your children. On top of these fruits, you need to take extra care during long and cold winters.

We are no friends of supplements at all, because we believe that you can live and thrive only on natural food, and sunshine but if you live somewhere really cold, things become different. We recommend taking B12 supplements, Vitamin D for sunlight supplementation and Vitamin K2 if you are eating vegan.

Taking all this into account, it was such an obvious decision for us to move closer to where our food is living. But as I said: You can still be successfully raw with your kids, if you take the things to your heart, which have been mentioned here!"

Raising their raw food family, Katie and Ka want to share all the simple secrets and insights to help your family becoming more healthy. To learn how to live a well balanced and enjoyable raw food family life, register for their free articles at http://www.therawfoodfamily.com/

Recipes - Raw Bread

2010-04-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

I brought this bread to the EZ RAW Potluck on January 17th. Great "bread" for morning toast with buttery spread (recipe in another post), as a base for pizza, to make your own sandwiches, or use as a bun for sun burgers. Really EZ to make and sooo yummy!

Picture below shows one piece of bread with tomato slices/sprouts and one piece of bread with nacho cheese.

1 cup ground flax seeds
1/3 cup whole flax seeds
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp yellow onion, chopped
1-1/3 cups water
2/3 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup black or tan sesame seeds

Use a spatula to mix together in a large bowl, ground and whole flax seeds, salt, garlic, onion, and water. Then add sunflower and sesame seeds and mix well.

Spread batter evenly on paraflexx sheet on top of dehydrator tray (fills one Excalibur tray & yields 9 slices of bread). Dry at 105 degrees F for 4 hours. Flip and score bread into 9 slices to make it easy to break in straight lines. Dehydrate another hour before serving. Serve warm.

This is under-dehydrated for immediate use, so some of the water still remains and it is more pliable. It will keep in fridge for several days. You may want to dehydrate longer before storing away for longer periods of time.

Recipes - Sunshine Crackers

2010-03-31T13:03:00.000-07:00

Just came up with this new recipe for the class on March 28 that has a sunburst of flavour. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and good for arthritis!

Sunshine Crackers Yield: 1 tray of 36 crackers

1/2 cup brown flax seeds
1/2 cup golden flax seeds
1 cup water to soak flax
2 lemons, juiced
handful Cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup red pepper, chopped
1/4 cup white onion, chopped
1 large stalk celery, chopped
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp Himalayan salt

Soak flax seeds in 1 cup water 8 hours or overnight
Add ingredients, except soaked flax, to food processor and process till well mixed
Soaked flax with water will now be thick and jelly-like
Add flax mixture to food processor and process another 15 seconds
Pour this mixture onto paraflexx sheet on top of dehydrator tray
Spread mixture evenly with spatula in a large square on tray
Place in dehydrator at 105 degrees F for 8 hours
Remove from dehydrator and flip crackers over to other side, removing paraflexx sheet
Using spatula, draw deep lines for 36 crackers
Return to dehydrator for another 6-8 hours at 105 degrees F.

Environment - Save the Planet in Style

2010-03-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

You eat organic food, use eco-friendly cleaners, and leave your car at home as much as you can, trying to make as little an impact on the environment as possible. But have you considered what hangs in your closet? What you wear can also have a negative effect on your body and the planet. Try wearing clothing with a conscience that includes...organic cotton, hemp, linen, flax and wool. Clothes from bamboo, soy and corn aren't organic, but are from renewable resources and can be composted. Cotton is the worst offender with more insecticides used than on any other crop (World Wildlife Federation).The Environmental Protection Agency classifies 5 of the top 10 pesticides used on cotton as cancer-causing. Choosing a hemp T-shirt over a cotton one saves water, energy, land, and eliminates fertilizer and pesticide. Consider how your skin will absorb what it comes in contact with, and choose stylish yet functional, eco-friendly products the next time you shop for clothes!

Health - Taking Care of Your Colon

2010-03-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

One of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain colon health that I have found is the regular consumption of Green Smoothies. Since my journey with raw living foods started about four years ago, my biggest 'aha' moment was when I discovered Green Smoothies. This was my turning point! And now I never miss my yummy blender full of Green Smoothie every day!
I have observed a huge improvement in my intestinal functions. Drinking one quart of Green Smoothie per day can improve elimination with regular bowel movements 2-3 times a day. This means gentle elimination without discomfort, for fast and complete elimination. You can read more about the benefits of Green Smoothies in the book "Green for Life" by Victoria Boutenko.

And consider adding fresh ginger root to add warmth to your Green Smoothie, strengthen the immune system, and to soothe a sore throat. Cut off anywhere from half an inch to an inch of the fresh root, slice off the dry peel and chop into bits small enough for your blender to handle (a Vitamix can take the whole piece with peel if organic). Just add the ginger to the other ingredients in your blender.

Velvet Green Smoothie
(Victoria Boutenko)
1 bunch dandelion greens
1 bunch parsley
3 mangoes
3 cups water
Blend well and Enjoy. Yields 2 quarts

Health - How to Tell GM Foods by Label

2010-02-25T17:24:00.000-08:00

Labeling Standards
Source: International Federation for Produce Standards, "Produce PLU: 2006 User's Guide," plucodes.com
These 4 or 5 digit numbers, assigned to loose and bunched grocery items, are international designations used for coding - and they're a quick way to tell whether produce is conventionally grown, organically grown or genetically modified (GM).

Organic produce has a five-digit number beginning with a 9. Organic bananas, for example, would be given the designation of 94011.
Conventional produce has a four-digit number beginning with a 3 or 4. Therefore, the number on conventionally grown bananas would be 4011.
Genetically Engineered produce also has a five-digit number on the label and begins with an 8. Again, the number on genetically altered bananas would be 84011.

GE Labeling
In 1992, the FDA declared that biotech foods were the same as conventional foods – because the biotech companies said so. The number 8 was then instituted since the produce industry thought consumers would prefer genetically modified food moreso than conventionally grown food. It did not take long for them to find out differently. Although the number 8 designation can still be found, it is rare. The biotech industry is also fighting any sort of labeling for their inventions – now that they know consumers really do not want them. As it stands now, Hawaiian papaya is about the only food you will find that has the number 8 in front of it.
Unless the label specifically states “certified organic”, it is a safe bet that any food containing corn, soy, and cottonseed oils has a GE origin. These processed foods will not have the genetically engineered PLU code that would alert the consumer. In addition, manufacturers of GE products are not subjected to any special review, approval, or labeling. The organic producer is, however. Ironic, isn’t it – something that is grown naturally requires more scrutiny than does something containing any number of harmful substances?

Green Smoothies - for your Plants!

2010-02-23T18:11:00.000-08:00

Two months ago I transplanted two tiny Hedera Ivy plants, and here is a picture of how they look now. Thanks to weekly feedings of leftover Green Smoothie, the plants are a vibrant abundant addition to my home!

Plant Food: After drinking your Green Smoothie, don't throw away what is left over in your blender. Just add water to the remains of Green Smoothie in your blender, shake, and pour around the base of your houseplants. Do this once a week and your plants will thank you!

Basic Recipe: If you are not already drinking Green Smoothies, they are a wonderful introduction to the raw and living foods lifestyle. In the beginning you may desire a sweeter taste, so try blending 2 cups purified water, 60% fresh or frozen fruits, and 40% dark leafy greens. As your tastebuds begin to change you may notice a gradual shift to a 50/50 ratio of fruits/greens. Mix all in your blender and drink a blender full each day (preferrably in the morning). Pay attention to how your body responds to its daily feedings of raw living, concentrated, whole, nutrient rich food!

Health - DVDs that are worth watching!

2010-02-23T12:00:00.000-08:00

DVDs are a great way to keep informed about the benefits of eating Organic Raw Living foods, GMOs (genetically modified foods), and to learn what you don't know about how commercially sold foods are grown. These DVDs are available from the library, with the exception of the last three.

Gardens of Destiny - Salt Spring Island seed sanctuary about the benefits of organic food.
The World According to Monsanto - huge corporation that is controlling the world's seeds.
Healing Cancer, from inside out, Mike Anderson - cancer industry vs natural nutrition.
The Great Warming - what today's rising temperatures mean for our own future.
One man, one cow, one planet - the farming revolution in India, and one man out to save the world.
Earthlings - film about the suffering of animals for food, fashion, pets, entertainment and medical research.
Eating - Rave diet (available at Silver Hills Bakery)
Reversing the Irreversible - testimonials of the health benefits of people eating raw (available at http://www.rawfamily.com/ )
Greens can save your life - Victoria Boutenko describes the benefits and reasons behind eating raw and drinking green smoothies (available at http://www.rawfamily.com/ )

Recipes - Raspberry Ganache Fudge Cake

2010-02-22T00:21:00.000-08:00

Here is a beautiful RAW cake we made at the "Uncooking" class on Feb 7th. It has two layers with chocolate frosting and raspberries in the middle and then more frosting on top and sides.

Raspberry Ganache Fudge Cake Yield: 6 servings

To cut down on the caffeine in the cacao you can use only carob - or try half carob and half cacao (which is what I do).

Fudge cake:

3 cups dry walnuts
1 cup pitted Medjool dates

2/3 cup unsweetened cacao powder/carob powder

1/4 tsp sea salt

Combine the walnuts, cacao powder, salt in a food processor and pulse until coarsley mixed. Avoid over processing. Add the dates and pulse until mixed well. Shape into 2 stackable cakes of desired shape and set aside.

Frosting:

1/3 cup pitted Medjool dates
1/2 cup avocado (about 1 medium)

1/4 cup Agave syrup
1/3 cup cacao powder/carob powder

Combine the dates and Agave in food processor and process until smooth. Add the avocado and process until smooth. Add the cacao powder and process until smooth.

Filling:

1/2 cup raspberries

Frost the top of one of the cakes with 1/2 the frosting and top with raspberries. Stack the second cake on top and frost the top and sides. Serve immediately or place in fridge for couple of hours to firm up. The cake on its own will keep in the fridge for many weeks. The frosting will keep separately in the fridge for 1 week. The assembled cake with raspberries will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipes - Juicing & Green Smoothies

2010-02-20T18:21:00.000-08:00

One difference between using a juicer and a blender is that the juice contains no fibre. Therefore when the body has a hard time digesting the fibre in food, juicing is a way to slowly introduce the much needed nutrients. Juicing can contribute to health in specific situations such as a severely weakened immune system. If you notice digestion is a problem as you are transitioning to raw food you may want to try this: drink one or more glasses of juice each day for 2 weeks - then switch to drinking green smoothies once a day for the next 2 weeks. Become aware of how your body feels during this 4 week period. Allow your body time to adjust while the assimilation of nutrients from juicing takes place, and notice how you feel as the intake of fibre from green smoothies begins to eliminate toxic waste accumulations.

JUICING - Be aware that combining starchy vegetables with fruits can cause gas in the intestines - personally the only fruit I add when juicing is an apple.

Carrot Juice

5 medium carrots

Juice through a juicer - simple! Serves 1.

Joint Lubricator Juice

1 bunch celery

2 cucumbers

1 apple (for mild sweetening)

Juice through a juicer and enjoy while fresh. Serves 2.

Carrot Beet Ginger Juice

3-4 medium carrots

1/4 to 1/2 beet, sliced (begin with less)

1/2 to 1" slice of ginger

1 small clove garlic (optional)

Juice together in a juicer and enjoy. Serves 1.

GREEN SMOOTHIES - from the Boutenko Family
Dark leafy greens are the only food group that helps digest other foods through stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes - so greens can be combined with any other foods!

Blue-Green Aloe Smoothie

2 cups water

1 head Romaine lettuce

1 medium Fuji apple

1/4 lime

1/4 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

1 small leaf of Aloe

Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth. NOTE: Great drink for diabetics because blueberries and aloe naturally reduce blood sugar. Serves 2-3.

Minty Thrill

4 ripe pears

4-5 leaves of Kale

1/2 bunch mint

2 cups water

Mix all in blender. Yield: 1 quart of smoothie.

Parsley Passion Smoothie

1 bunch fresh parsley

1 cucumber, peeled

1 Fuji apple

1 ripe banana

1-2 cups water

Mix all in blender. Yield: 2 quarts of smoothie.