Category: Health

  • Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    Whether you’re hitting the trails or embarking on a summer road trip, having a convenient and nutritious snack on hand is a must!

    That’s where these Cacao Superfood Trail Bars come in.

    Packed with all the goodness of trail mix, including nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, these bars are the perfect fuel for any adventure. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be customized to your liking. One of the best things about these bars is their portability. Simply pack them in a reusable container or wrap them in wax paper for a grab-and-go snack that’s perfect for hiking, camping, or any outdoor activity. And because they’re made with whole ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit, you’ll feel satisfied and energized for hours.

    Not only are these bars convenient and nutritious, but they’re also affordable. Making your own snacks at home is a great way to save money, and these bars can be made in large batches to last you through multiple adventures. You can also get most of the ingredients from the bulk section, so you can avoid the single-use packaging that normally comes with granola bars.

    Next time you’re gearing up for an outdoor adventure, don’t forget to make a batch of Cacao Superfood Trail Bars!

    Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    If you're looking for a delicious and portable snack that's perfect for your summer adventures, look no further than these Cacao Superfood Trail Bars!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 8
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 Cup gluten-free rolled oats
    • 1/2 Cup dry roasted almonds roughly chopped
    • 1/3 Cup cacao nibs
    • 1/4 Cup dry roasted pecans roughly chopped
    • 1/2 Cup roasted sunflower seeds
    • 1/4 Cup hemp seeds
    • 1/4 Cup sesame seeds
    • 1/4 Cup currants
    • 1/2 Cup raw honey or syrup sweetener of choice
    • 1/3 Cup creamy peanut or almond butter
    • 2 Ounces dark chocolate chopped
    • 1/4 Teaspoon olive oil

    Method
     

    1. Preheat oven to 350° F. In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, cacao nibs, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, sesame seeds, and currants.
    2. Heat peanut or almond butter and honey or syrup sweetener in a small saucepan and stir until very warm. Pour over oat mixture and stir until well blended and everything is coated.
    3. Line a 9'x9" baking pan with parchment paper. Add mixture to the pan and with wet hands, press mixture flat.
    4. Bake for 15 minutes. Allow bars to cool before removing from the pan. Cut into eight bars and place on a cooling rack.
    5. Fill a medium-sized pot with two inches of water and place a heatproof metal or glass mixing bowl on top. You want it to fit snugly without touching the water. Bring the water to a simmer over medium-low heat. Add the chocolate and olive oil to the bowl and stir until melted and combined.
    6. Drizzle the chocolate over the cooled bars.
    7. Enjoy!

    Recipe Courtesy of INFRA

  • Mango Relish Dogs

    Mango Relish Dogs

    Mango Relish Dogs

    The combination of sweet and savory flavors from the mango chutney paired with the smoky and satisfying taste of plant-based hot dogs creates a truly delicious and satisfying experience.

    Give a new flavor profile to the folks sitting around your table—whether they be picky kids or adventurous eaters, experienced in plant-based or just experimenting with alternatives. There are many reasons to enjoy plant-based mango chutney hot dogs.

    Looking for another way to spice things up? Customize your mayo with a touch of sriracha and black pepper or lime zest and chopped cilantro.

    Whether it’s for the unique flavor, nutritional benefits, or ethical considerations, these hot dogs are a delicious and satisfying choice for any occasion. Plus, you can have a meal ready to go in less than 20 minutes! You can have more time to enjoy time outside after warming up the grill.

    Mango Relish Dogs

    These are perfect for those who love a little bit of sweetness and tanginess in their hot dogs. Plus, it's vegan and plant-based!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    Mango Pickle Relish
    • 1 Cup sweet pickle relish
    • 1/2 Cup mango chutney
    • 1 Teaspoon rice vinegar
    • 1 Teaspoon dry mustard powder
    • 1 Teaspoon chili flakes
    • 1/2 Teaspoon curry powder
    Hot Dogs
    • 6 plant-based classic smoked hot dogs
    • 6 hot dog buns
    • 1/2 small red onion julienned
    • 1/2 Cup plant-based mayo

    Method
     

    1. Combine all relish ingredients in a bowl and adjust seasoning to taste.
    2. Butterfly hot dogs and sear each side in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden crisp, approximately three minutes per side. Alternatively, grill hot dogs.
    3. To assemble, place hot dogs in buns then fill with relish. Drizzle on mayo and garnish with red onion.

    Recipe Courtesy of INFRA

  • Elderflower Lemon Spritz with Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides

    Elderflower Lemon Spritz with Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides

    Elderflower Lemon Spritz with Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides

    The Elderflower Spritz is a refreshing pick-me up mocktail for that 3pm slump.

    Everyone has the same number of hours in a day, but sometimes you just don’t feel like using those hours for sleeping. Sometimes you feel like watching one too many episodes of your favorite reality TV show. Made with green tea, lemon juice, mint leaves, and elderflower tonic water, this fizzy and floral drink is the perfect mocktail recipe. 

    But what really sets this mocktail apart is the addition of Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides. With just one serving, you can add the collagen that you love with a lemony flavor you’ll love even more.

    Go ahead and indulge in a delicious drink that’s also good for your daily dose of collagen. Make it squeezier.

    Elderflower Lemon Spritz

    A refreshing, relaxing, and nourishing mocktail!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 1
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 Serving Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides
    • 4 Ounces green tea or water
    • 3 Ounces Elderflower tonic water
    • 2 Ounces Lemon or grapefruit juice
    • Mint leaves or rosemary sprig as a garnish

    Method
     

    1. Add Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides, green tea (or water) and lemon (or grapefruit) juice to a glass and mix using a frother or spoon
    2. Add ice
    3. Top with Elderflower tonic water
    4. Add mint leaf or rosemary sprig for garnish
    5. Enjoy!

    Recipe courtesy of Vital Proteins

  • Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs with Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides

    Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs with Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides

    Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs with Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides

    This Lemon Blueberry Muffin is the perfect dessert when you are looking for something simple and easy to make that will fulfill your sweet cravings.

    Mug recipes are great because there are many different flavors and types you can make, they require minimal time and use just one dish.

    A serving of Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides is featured in this recipe, which provides 20g collagen peptides per serving and hair, skin, nail, bone and joint health benefits.**

    The blueberries are a perfect touch as they have a sweet, yet neutral flavor that balances out the other ingredients. Topped with a coconut whipped cream, it captures all of the flavors together creating a perfect and sweet treat.

    Lemon Blueberry Muffin Mugs

    A yummy, nutrient-dense treat!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 1
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1/2 Cup flour gluten free 1:1 flour is used in this recipe
    • 1/2 Teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 Teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
    • 1 Serving Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides
    • 1.5 Tablespoons maple syrup
    • 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/4 Cup almond milk
    • 1/2 Teaspoon lemon rinds grated
    • 1 Tablespoon butter melted or use any oil
    • 1/4 Cup blueberries fresh or frozen
    • coconut whipped cream for topping

    Method
     

    1. In a large mug, combine all of the dry ingredients except blueberries and mix together.
    2. Whisk in the wet ingredients and combine until they form a batter-like consistency.
    3. Add in the blueberries and then place on a plate in the microwave.
    4. Microwave for 2.5–3 minutes, pausing if batter looks like it may overflow. (Pausing will allow it to settle and not make a mess.)
    5. Take out of the microwave and top with coconut whipped cream and blueberries.
    6. Enjoy!

    **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    Recipe courtesy of Vital Proteins

  • Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail with Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides

    Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail with Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides

    Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail with Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides

    A fun, effervescent way to enjoy your summer evenings.

    Filled with pomegranate juice, freshly squeezed lime juice, maple syrup, soda water, with a sprig of rosemary, this mocktail brings in flavors from the garden with a sweet twist. This mocktail is a great alternative when you are looking for something to sip on that is alcohol-free.

    What makes this mocktail toast-worthy, is the Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen Peptides that dissolves so effortlessly into the mixture and provides hair, skin, nail, bone and joint support.**

    Pomegranate “Gin” Fizz Mocktail

    Time to enjoy this delicious and simple Pomegranate Fizz Mocktail!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 1
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1/2 Cup pomegranate juice
    • 1 Teaspoon maple syrup
    • 1 Cup soda water
    • 1 Serving Vital Proteins® Marine Collagen
    • 1 Sprig rosemary
    • 1 lime wedge/round
    • 1 Tablespoon pomegranate seeds

    Method
     

    1. In a glass, add the lime, maple syrup, pomegranate juice and mix together well.
    2. Next, add the Marine Collagen and mix until it fully dissolves.
    3. Add the soda water to fill the glass.
    4. Top with a lime wedge, pomegranate and a rosemary sprig.
    5. Enjoy!

    **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    Recipe courtesy of Vital Proteins

  • What makes people healthy?

    What makes people healthy?

    What makes people healthy?

    Exploring the social determinants of health

    Why are some people healthier than others? Yes, your genes play a big role. But there are other determinants of health that have nothing to do with your genetic makeup. Where you live, how you’re educated, and other societal influences are all important factors in our health. Find out more.

    Two hypothetical kids

    There are significant implications for advantage and disadvantage related to social determinants of health. Look at socioeconomic position, for example: a child born into a higher tax bracket is much more likely to be in a higher tax bracket when they’re older.

    Let’s take a look at the life course trajectories of two hypothetical kids. Joe is born into an affluent neighborhood, while John lives in subsidized housing with his six siblings in a single parent home.

    Joe’s parents are able to afford organic produce, put Joe into private school, and drive him to and from his various sporting activities throughout his childhood. As a result, Joe gets an excellent education that allows him to attend university, secure a job in a top tax bracket, and enjoy an active social life.

    John’s father works double shifts to make ends meet, but the only apartment he can afford has a black mold problem that has given John respiratory issues for years. John’s school is oversubscribed, and he’s falling behind because of sick days. To support the family, John takes a construction job and eventually drops out of high school. Years of manual labor and poor self-care have taken their toll on John, and he lives with chronic pain.

    You can imagine that two very different states of health and well-being are being experienced by Joe and John in later life. These differences may not necessarily be due to differences in the individuals, but in the broader social and economic circumstances in which they find themselves.

    What next?

    To address systemic issues such as the negative impact of social determinants of health, we must look to addressing modifiable aspects of lifestyle at the individual level and systemic inequities at the population level.

    Your DNA is not your destiny

    Although there are many social determinants of health that you can’t control, focus on the ones that you can control, such as diet, exercise, and social connections.

    • Pack yourself a healthy lunch.
    • Go for an evening walk with your partner.
    • Plan a family gathering.

    When you need nutritional help, chat with your health care practitioner. They may recommend certain supplements, such as the following:

    Nutritional helperBenefits
    vitamin Cimmune health, wound healing, bone health, antioxidant protection
    vitamin Dbone health maintenance, decreased risk of cancer mortality, mood stabilization
    vitamin B6red blood cell formation, brain processes and development, immune function, and steroid hormone activity
    vitamin B12brain support, red blood cell genesis support, energy booster
    magnesiummuscle repair, neuromuscular facilitation, blood sugar control
    zincsleep support, digestive support, reproductive organ support

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    On a hot summer day, nothing beats the sweet, juicy goodness of watermelon.

    Imagine that refreshing flavor transformed into a delightful frozen treat: watermelon popsicles! These vibrant and mouthwatering popsicles are incredibly easy to make and will keep you cool all summer long.

    Bursting with natural sweetness and hydration, they are perfect for both kids and adults alike.

    So let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe and get ready to savor the essence of summer in every bite.

    Nicole Catenaro

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    These delightful watermelon popsicles are a cool and healthy way to beat the summer heat. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the refreshing taste of watermelon popsicles! So gather your ingredients, get creative with your molds, and let the sweet flavors of this frozen treat transport you to a sunny paradise. Enjoy!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 4 cups Fresh watermelon chunks (seedless)
    • 1 tablespoon Freshly squeezed lime juice
    • 1-2 tablespoons Honey or sweetener of choice (optional, adjust to taste)

    Method
     

    1. Start by cutting the watermelon into small chunks, removing any seeds if necessary. Ensure the watermelon is ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
    2. If you're using wooden popsicle sticks, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent them from splintering during freezing.
    3. Place the watermelon chunks into a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth and liquid consistency.
    4. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the watermelon puree. Lime juice enhances the overall flavor and adds a tangy kick.
    5. Taste the watermelon mixture and assess its sweetness. Depending on the natural sweetness of the watermelon, you may choose to add a little honey or sweetener of choice.
    6. If desired, gradually add the sweetener of your choice, blending again until well combined. Remember, watermelons are already sweet, so add sweeteners sparingly to maintain a balanced taste.
    7. Carefully pour the watermelon mixture into popsicle molds or small paper cups, leaving a little space at the top for expansion during freezing.
    8. Place the popsicles in the freezer and let them set for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they become partially frozen.
    9. Once partially frozen, insert the popsicle sticks deeper into the molds or cups to secure them in place. This will help the sticks stand straight when the popsicles are fully frozen.
    10. Return the popsicles to the freezer and allow them to freeze completely for about 4-6 hours or overnight.
    11. When ready to enjoy, remove the popsicles from the molds or peel away the paper cups. If the popsicles don't easily release from the molds, run the bottom of the molds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen them.
    12. Serve the watermelon popsicles immediately and relish in the refreshing taste of summer. They are perfect for poolside lounging, backyard barbecues, or simply as a guilt-free dessert.
  • CBD Limeade

    CBD Limeade

    Looking for a delicious and refreshing way to incorporate CBD into your summer routine? Look no further than CBD-infused limeade! This delightful beverage combines the tangy flavors of fresh limes with the potential relaxation benefits of CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want a relaxing drink to enjoy on a sunny day, this CBD limeade recipe is a fantastic choice.

    CBD Limeade

    Remember, it's crucial to follow the dosage guidelines provided with your CBD product and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about using CBD. So, take a sip of this delightful beverage and savor the unique combination of zesty lime flavors and the potential benefits of CBD. Cheers to a refreshing and relaxing experience!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Servings: 4
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 6 Limes
    • 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice
    • 4 cups Water
    • 1/2 cup Honey adjust according to taste
    • CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture as per your desired dosage
    • Ice cubes
    • Lime slices for garnish
    • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

    Method
     

    1. Begin by squeezing the juice from 4 to 6 limes, collecting the juice in a pitcher.
    2. Add 4 cups of water to the pitcher along with the fresh lime juice.
    3. Stir in 1/2 cup of honey until it completely dissolves.
    4. Add your preferred dosage of CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture to the pitcher. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired dosage. Make sure to follow the instructions on the CBD product regarding dosage.
    5. Stir the limeade mixture well to ensure that the CBD is evenly distributed throughout.
    6. Take a moment to taste the limeade and adjust the flavor if needed. You can add more lime juice, water, or honey to achieve the desired taste profile.
    7. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the CBD-infused limeade over the ice, allowing it to chill.
    8. For an eye-catching presentation, garnish each glass with a lime slice and, if you like, a few fresh mint leaves.
    9. Enjoy!
  • What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    Breaking down the basics of branched-chain amino acids.

    BCAA supplements may be the talk of your gym, but are they all they’re cracked up to be? Before you make any decisions, go back to the BCAA basics. Here are 10 things you should know about BCAAs.

    1. Needed by your body

    Getting their name from their “branched” molecular structure, there are three types of BCAAs: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. This trio makes up three of your body’s nine essential amino acids—called so because your body needs them to function, but can’t produce them on its own.

    2. Found in your food 

    BCAAs are found in protein-rich plant and animal sources. In addition to beef, chicken, fish, eggs, and milk, you can get BCAAs from corn, soy, beans, chickpeas, lentils, whole wheat, brown rice, almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds.

    3. Available in supplements 

    If you are eating a balanced diet—especially one with adequate protein—you’re likely already getting enough BCAAs. Still, there are reasons that you may want to add a BCAA supplement to your routine. If you and your health care practitioner determine that a BCAA supplement could provide needed support, you’ll find them most commonly in the form of powders, tablets, or capsules.

    4. Ease muscle soreness 

    BCAAs can aid in reducing the muscle soreness you may feel after a workout.  Known as delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), you may know the feeling best two or three days after a particularly hard workout.  Research has shown that BCAAs, especially when ingested prior to working out, can help suppress DOMS.

    5. Help you exercise longer 

    Studies have found that BCAAs can help enhance athletic performance by reducing exercise fatigue. The reason for this benefit has been linked to BCAAs’ ability to lower serotonin levels and interfere with tryptophan absorption—two chemicals that work to make you feel more tired during your workout.

    6. Protect your liver 

    Studies have shown that BCAAs help protect the liver of those who eat high-fat diets by providing support to gut flora that prevent fat accumulation in the liver. Further, BCAA supplementation has been shown to provide beneficial effects in those with advanced cirrhosis, a severe liver disease.

    7. Prevent muscle wasting 

    Muscle wasting is the reduction in skeletal muscle, which is brought on by a number of causes including disuse. BCAAs can help slow this muscle-wasting process. Separate studies have shown that BCAAs can provide beneficial effects to slow or prevent muscle wasting in a range of cases, including those involving cancer, advanced liver disease, and kidney damage.

    8. Support your well-being

    Adequate intake of BCAAs has been linked to a reduced risk of anxiety and depression, and an improved stress response.  In fact, one study showed that subjects with severe depression showed decreased BCAAs in their systems, suggesting that a low level of BCAAs could play a role in depression symptoms and low energy metabolism.

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine by Laura Newton

  • Exercise Outside

    Exercise Outside

    Exercise Outside

    Sea-to-sky adventures for men’s physical and mental health

    Do you enjoy exercising outdoors? Compared to indoor exercise, numerous studies have shown that guys who turn the great outdoors into their workout studio are more motivated to exercise, push themselves harder, and feel more grounded and restored. Get started with al fresco adventures.

    Embark on a unique exercise adventure

    “Nothing improves my mood and perspective more quickly than a scramble up a peak on the Great Divide Trail,” says personal trainer Chad Alexander. “When I’m stuck in my head or worrying about something, I remember how alive I felt on that mountaintop cliff.”

    Here are some thrilling activity ideas to inspire your next adventure.

    • Travel from sea to sea to sea on foot by hiking or bikepacking (which is mountain biking fused with backpacking and camping).
    • Go rock climbing.

    Consider scuba diving (or shipwreck diving!).

    • Soar to new heights with kitesurfing (where a strong gust of wind launches you sky-high off a cresting ocean wave or propels you quickly across a smooth lake).
    • Try out hang-gliding or paragliding.

    Forge some friendly competition

    For something a little closer to home, unique team sports can get you moving in the fresh air.

    Ultimate frisbee and disc golf have recently exploded in popularity. The number of local disc golf courses, for example, has jumped by 300 percent in the last few years. Other off-the-beaten-path outdoor sports include archery, handball, and even Harry Potter-inspired quidditch.

    Team sports are some of the best ways for men to build long-term, positive mental health outcomes. “Outdoor activities have changed my life in terms of mental health,” says Robert Puharich, a high school teacher. “Having teammates gives me a sense of community.”

    Rise to the challenge: 3 benefits to pushing your limits

    Testosterone

    Friendly competition in team sports has been shown to raise your testosterone levels. This hormone is key for strength, endurance, and your sex life.

    Motivation

    Once you’ve beaten your competition, or even beaten your own self-doubt, you’ll feel more motivated and driven to tackle life’s challenges.

    Self-confidence

    Pushing yourself on a grueling adventure forces you to tap into your own confidence, self-trust, and skills. Over time, psychologists say, this builds self-efficacy and resilience.

    The best time to exercise outdoors

    With longer daylight hours, your window of opportunity is wide open. The best time to head out and get your sweat on depends on your goals.

    Mornings

    If you’re trying to lose weight, morning exercise on an empty stomach may reduce your food cravings later, and it also leads to burning more fat.

    Midday

    Exercise reduces stress and boosts your energy, making it the perfect escape in the middle of your workday.

    Afternoons

    Your muscles contract more effectively when you’re warmed up. For peak physical strength and endurance, your body’s natural temperature peaks in the afternoon.

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine by Joshua Duvauchelle