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Monday, June 27, 2016

Recipe of the Week: 11 Delicious Detox Water Recipes Your Body Will Love

11 Delicious Detox Water Recipes Your Body Will Love

Are you trying to lose weight, improve your digestive health, fight inflammation and boost your immune system? Drinking a tall glass of detox water (or two to three) a day can help you do just that!
Regular H2O can easily be transformed into delicious detox water by adding fruits, vegetables and herbs. As the ingredients soak, powerful nutrients will release into the water. While all detox water recipes aim to flush harmful toxins from the body, certain ingredients add additional benefits.
Below we have shared 11 delicious detox water recipes that include the following ingredients: lemons, limes, cucumbers, oranges, grapefruits, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, watermelon, apples, cinnamon, mint and basil. Before we get to these detox water recipes though, make sure to check out this brief breakdown of health benefits:

Lemon & Lime

Flushes toxins
Aids digestion
Boosts the immune system
Rejuvenates skin

Cucumber

Flushes toxins
Fights inflammation
Aids digestion

Orange

Flushes toxins
Boosts the immune system

Grapefruit

Flushes toxins
Aids weight loss
Improves digestion
High in antioxidants
Helps lower cholesterol

Raspberries, Blueberries & Strawberries

Flushes toxins
Fights inflammation
Rich in antioxidants
Boosts immune system
Fights cancer

Watermelon

Flushes toxins
Fights inflammation
Improves blood flow
Boosts immune system

Apple

Flushes toxins
Aids weight loss
Fights cancer
Boosts immune system

Cinnamon

Revs the metabolism
Aids digestion
Improves brain function

Mint

Aids digestion
Eases stomachaches
Fights depression

Basil

Flushes toxins
Fights inflammation
Contains antioxidants
Antibacterial properties
Fights depression
Fights cancer

Now that you know the benefits, it’s time to start making these 11 delicious detox water recipes!
* When making detox water it’s important to let it sit in the refrigerator for at least two hours before drinking. This will allow the nutrients to seep into the water.
* When making detox water, many people recommend not eating the fruit afterwards. While eating the fruit certainly won’t harm you, it may not have the same flavor or pack the same nutritional punch as it did before.

Flat Belly Detox Water
Fat Blast Detox Water
Slim Down Detox Water
Strawberry Lemon
Orange Blueberry
Raspberry Lemon
Lemon Grapefruit
Full of Fruit
Strawberry Kiwi
Blueberry Kiwi
Green Tea Detox Water

Monday, June 13, 2016

Recipe of the Week: 34 Healthy Breakfasts for Busy Mornings

When it comes to breakfast, the options are endless. Pancakes or waffles? Bacon and eggs? Muffin followed by a pastry? So why limit those delicious dishes to the morning hours? Here are 34 healthier snack options to satisfy those breakfast food cravings all day long.

1. Nut Butter, Banana, and Chia Seed Toast

Try this superfood twist on classic PB and toast with 1/2 a banana (sliced) and a sprinkle of chia, which is packed with vitamins and minerals (like six times more calcium than milk!).

2. Berry and Yogurt Smoothie

Here’s a simple and delicious smoothie for the morning rush. Blend frozen fruit (banana and berries work well) with Greek yogurt and a liquid of your choice (milk, juice, coconut water—whatever you like). Freeze overnight and thaw throughout the day to enjoy in the afternoon or blend up in the morning.

3. Savory Oatmeal With an Egg

Take oatmeal to a whole new level by making it savory. Prepare as usual with milk or water, but add a pinch of salt and pepper instead of any cinnamon or sugar. Then top with an over-easy or poached egg and sprinkle on a little cheese for an extra tasty kick.

4. Quinoa Fruit Salad

Spice up a plain old fruit cup with a scoop of quinoa. Toss the whole shebang around until the quinoa is evenly distributed. Add a dressing of honey, lime, and basil for a little extra body.

5. Tomato Toast With Macadamia Ricotta

Here’s a healthier take on a classic breakfast sandwich: Take 2 slices of a hearty whole-grain bread, spread each slice with 1 tablespoon of homemade macadamia ricotta cheese, and sprinkle with shiso or basil, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper to taste. Add 1-2 hearty slices of fresh heirloom tomatoes (blotted with paper towel to remove excess liquid) and enjoy.

6. Quinoa and Chia Porridge

Cooking quinoa in milk (cow, soy, or almond) and adding some sweet spices and fruit makes for a great substitute for classic hot breakfast cereals. Plus, it’s high in protein and essential amino acids like lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. Simply put all the ingredients into a pot and bring to a boil. Then simmer, stir, top with your favorite add-ons, and enjoy!

7. Avocado Toast With Egg

Sometimes simple is just better. Top two lightly toasted slices of whole-grain bread with smashed avocado and a sprinkling of salt and pepper. Layer on two sunny-side up eggs for a healthy dose of protein, and you've got a well-rounded breakfast. Stack 'em in a tupperware container for easy transport or cook the yolks a bit more and make the whole thing into a sandwich.

8. Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Here’s a healthy way to have chocolate for breakfast. A bowlful of quinoa makes for a filling, protein-rich base, and the banana and berries add a few servings of fruit.

9. Leftovers n’ Egg

Stuck with last night’s leftovers? Place a scoop of leftover roasted veggies, potatoes, or meat in a container; top with a cracked egg; and heat in the microwave until the egg white is cooked through, 30 to 45 seconds. (Or just prep in the oven.) Feeling fancy? Sprinkle with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

10. Warm Fruit Bowl

Craving dessert for breakfast? Or breakfast for dessert? This gluten-free bowl should hit the spot. Simply bake a berry blend in the oven, sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings, and add a cup of milk.

11. Zucchini Bread Oatmeal

Turn a classic baked loaf into oatmeal with this recipe. Adding shredded zucchini is a great way to fit in an extra serving of veggies. Throw on a handful of toasted walnuts for some added crunch.

12. Egg Breakfast Muffins

Finally, a muffin without all the carbs. Plus these guys are simple to make ahead of time. Just zap them for a few seconds in the microwave before serving.

13. Open-Face Breakfast Sandwich

Who doesn’t love an egg sandwich? Simply toss arugula with olive oil and lemon juice before frying eggs with a dash of salt and pepper. Place on top of whole-wheat toast layered with ricotta and a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Wrap in foil and enjoy whenever the craving hits!

14. Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie

Smoothies are a perfect on-the-go snack any time of day. Blend frozen bananas, peanut butter, soy milk, Greek yogurt, honey, and a few ice cubes. If this is a morning snack, keep it in a tight-sealing container and throw it in a gym or work bag. For an afternoon boost, prep it the night before and freeze. Remove in the morning, and it will be thawed and ready to enjoy after lunch. Tip: Add a scoop of your favorite chocolate or vanilla protein for an extra protein boost.

15. PB&J Waffle Sandwich

Try this sweet take on a classic breakfast sandwich the next time you're eating on the go. Prepare a whole-grain toaster waffle and slice in half. Spread with 2 tablespoons nut butter and jelly of your choice, and layer sliced strawberries on top.

16. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Breakfast Burrito

Breakfast burritos are a great, easy snack to keep on hand. Make a bunch, wrap in foil, and keep in the freezer for whenever the craving hits. Protein from the eggs and black beans keeps you fuller longer, and the sweet potato keeps things interesting.

17. Stuffed Apple Surprise

This is a perfect pick for apple season. Cut 1 apple in half and remove the core (plus a bit of the extra flesh around the core). Drop 2 teaspoons nut butter between the two holes, and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon oats or granola. Wrap up the whole apple in foil or plastic wrap to save for later or enjoy as is.

18. Chocolate Pumpkin Oatmeal

A heaping dollop of pumpkin puree is a great way to squeeze in an extra dose of veggies. Plus, the super-orange superfood is packed with nutrients and a healthy dose of fiber. This recipe pairs the pumpkin with oats, chia seeds, cocoa, and almond milk for a quick and easy breakfast.

19. Blueberry Overnight Oats

This is the ultimate lazy-person breakfast. Combine oats, chia seeds, blueberries, vanilla, and milk and yogurt of your choice in a sealed container the night before. By morning, you’ll have delicious overnight oats! These can be heated in the microwave for 1-2 minutes if you're in the mood for something warm.

20. Coconut Yogurt Quinoa Muffins

By this point, it's probably obvious we think quinoa makes anything better. So when it comes to muffins? It’s a no-brainer. Try these little bites for breakfast or an after-lunch treat.

21. Zapped Scrambled Eggs With Veggies

Yes, it’s possible to make really good scrambled eggs in the microwave. And it’s easy! Beat 2 eggs, throw in a microwave-safe container, add 1 handful of your favorite veggies (cherry tomatoes and spinach leaves work well), and a sprinkle of cheese. Zap the mixture for 30 seconds, stir, and cook another 30 seconds, or until eggs are solid. Throw a top on the container to eat later or store the raw mixture in a fridge until ready to heat and eat.

22. Oatmeal Squares

Oatmeal is a great option for a hearty snack or breakfast, but what’s the best way to make it into a more convenient and portable snack? Bake it into squares!

23. Morning Glory Muffins

This oat-based muffin is packed with healthy carrots and zucchini and lightly sweetened with raisins and a pinch of sugar. Use a mini muffin tin for smaller portions, and eliminate or cut back on the brown sugar (you can also choose a healthier substitute).

24. Pumpkin Granola Yogurt Parfait

This one’s perfect to try out as fall sets in. In your favorite small container (with a reliable lid!), top plain Greek yogurt with canned pumpkin puree and a handful of granola, then sprinkle with cinnamon. The best part? Pumpkin is a bonafide superfood rich in beta carotene, which is essential for eye health.

25. Zucchini, Banana, and Flaxseed Muffins

Any recipe that fits a serving of veggies into a delicious baked good is a winner in our book.

26. Berry Breakfast Parfait

One of the easiest, healthiest, and tastiest breakfasts out there is a classic fruit and yogurt parfait. The best part? It can be made with any toppings you like. Try choosing fruits that are in season for the most flavorful options.

27. Ham and Cheese Quinoa Cups

Here’s a new way to enjoy quinoa: Make mini quinoa breakfast quiches! In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups cooked quinoa, 2 eggs, 1 cup of your favorite veggies (spinach or zucchini work well), 1 cup shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Portion into a lightly greased mini muffin tin, and bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

28. Frozen Nutty Banana

Say banan-yeah to this healthy snack. Cut 1 firm (but ripe) banana in half and unpeel, arrange on a small baking sheet or freezer-safe plate, and spread each half with 1 tablespoon almond butter (on the sides not touching the plate). Here’s the fun part: Stick whatever toppings you like on the almond butter—our favorites are granola, chia or flaxseeds, and cinnamon. Insert a popsicle stick or skewer into the cut end of each half and freeze until solid (at least 2-3 hours).

29. Homemade Instant Oatmeal

For anyone with a microwave or hot water at their disposal, these customized instant oatmeal packets are fantastic to have on hand. Instead of purchasing pre-made oatmeal packets, assemble your own in Ziploc baggies using whole rolled oats, cinnamon, and mix-ins, such as raisins and nuts.

30. Cheesy Spinach Baked Eggs

Fried eggs are great, but what about baking a whole egg with veggies and cheese and skipping the added oil? Try making a pan of these babies at the beginning of the week and bringing one along each day. (Tip: If you use the individual silicone muffin molds, it makes the egg cups even more convenient for on-the-go snacking.)

31. Vegan Blueberry Flax Breakfast Muffins

These hearty, wholesome muffins make for the perfect portable breakfast. Flax lends a healthy dose of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Mashed bananas (one of our favorite healthy baking subsitutions) allow for a slight reduction in the added fat and sugar too.

32. Berries and Oats Microwave Muffin

Muffins from the microwave? Yep, it's possible! Add 1/4 cup quick oats, 1 egg, a handful of berries, and a sprinkling of brown sugar to a mug and mix until evenly combined. Microwave on high for 1 minute, remove to take a look, and keep cooking for 30 seconds at a time until the muffin looks firm.

33. Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Cookies for breakfast? Yes, please. While Oreos or Chips Ahoy may not make a balanced breakfast, a cookie made of banana, peanut butter, protein powder, and oats is a top-notch choice. Plus, you can pick and choose what you like to mix—go for almond butter and raisins in one batch and peanut butter chocolate chip in another.

34. Lemon Poppy Seed Protein Squares

Here's a healthier take on the classic lemon-poppy seed muffin. Fiber-rich oat flour is paired with vanilla protein powder for a healthy, filling base. Yogurt lends moisture and some fat, and applesauce makes a great substitute for sugar. The best part? One bar contains about 54 calories and six grams of protein—much better than any muffin we've seen on the shelves lately.

Thursday, June 9, 2016

Top 100 Inspirational Quotes

In the spirit of self motivation, here are 100 inspirational quotes.

Monday, June 6, 2016

Recipe of the Week: Skinny Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potatoes loaded with buffalo sauce shredded chicken + skinny blue cheese sauce! So delicious and comforting! Find the recipe on NotEnoughCinnamon.com #glutenfree #healthy #dinner:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Yield: Serves 7

Serving Size: 1 stuffed sweet potato with 1 tbsp sauce

Cal: 318 - Protein: 29.8g - Fat: 10.7g - Carbs: 25g - Fiber: 3.9g - Sugar: 8.13g
WW Old Points: 6 pts - 8 pts

Ingredients

7 medium sweet potatoes (the ones with the orange flesh), skin on
30 oz / 800 g skinless, boneless chicken breast
7 tbsp Skinny Blue Cheese dressing ( see the recipe here) - or Ranch dressing
cilantro or parsley, optional

Buffalo sauce

2/3 cup Frank's Red Hot Original Sauce
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 1/2 tbsp white vinegar
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water

Directions

Preheat oven to 400F/200C. Line a large baking sheet with aluminium foil, place sweet potatoes on it and bake for 30 minutes or until flesh is very tender (test with a knife). Turn off the oven and keep the sweet potatoes inside to keep them warm.
In the meantime, place chicken breasts in a large pot, cover with water and cook on medium-high heat for 30 minutes. Drain and transfer breasts on a cutting board or a plate. When cool enough to handle, shred using two forks or your fingers.
In another large pot (you can use the same one you used for the chicken) over medium heat, combine hot sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder. Add butter and whisk while it's melting. When butter is incorporated, stir in cornstarch dissolved in 1 tbsp water. Whisk until sauce thickens, about 30 seconds. Turn off the heat and add shredded chicken. Mix thoroughly to cover chicken with sauce.
Take the sweet potatoes out of the oven, cut them in half lengthwise (without cutting them all the way down so that the two parts stay attached together) and stuff them with shredded buffalo chicken. Drizzle one tablespoon of blue cheese sauce on each sweet potato. Top with fresh herbs if using. Serve immediately.

Thursday, June 2, 2016

How to Make Yourself Work When You Don't Want to

Procrastination affects everyone. See the below article on some quick tips for how you can become motivated again especially during the summer when you would rather be outside with friends and family.

Article

Thursday, June 25, 2015

Inspirational Thursday: Quotes to Keep You Going

Quotes to Keep You Going

"It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." - Confucius

"In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can." - Nikos Kazantzakis

"Either I will find a way, or I will make one." - Philip Sidney

Wellness Wednesday: 10 Simple Health Tips

10 Simple Health Tips

Eat Bananas

People whose diets are rich in potassium may be less prone to high blood pressure. Besides reducing sodium and taking other heart-healthy steps, eat potassium-packed picks such as bananas, cantaloupe, and oranges.

Sniff Rosemary

According to some research, catching a whiff of this aromatic herb may increase alertness and improve memory. To stay sharp, try smelling fresh rosemary or inhaling the scent of rosemary essential oil before a test or meeting.

Rub Your Temples

Tame tension headaches by rubbing peppermint oil, Tiger Balm, or white flower oil into your temples. All three remedies contain menthol, which has analgesic properties.

Get a Good Pair of Sneakers

Is your energy lagging? Though it may be the last thing you feel like doing when you're tired, exercise -- even a brisk walk -- can be more effective than a nap or cup of coffee at fighting fatigue.

Go for Garlic

Adding raw or lightly cooked garlic and onions to your meals may help keep you healthy this winter. Both foods appear to possess antiviral and antibacterial properties and are believed to boost immunity.

Eat Avocados

For dry skin, incorporate more avocados into your diet. They're rich in monounsaturated fat and vitamin E, both of which promote healthy skin. Try them on salads and sandwiches, and even in smoothies.

Try Triphala

Avoid constipation and stay regular with Triphala, an Ayurvedic blend of three fruits that is believed to help tone the gastrointestinal tract. Look for capsules of Triphala and follow package directions.

Eat Japanese Food

In addition to following good dental hygiene, you can help prevent cavities by adding more shiitake mushrooms and wasabi to your diet. Both foods contain compounds that help fight the bacteria that cause plaque and cavities.

Cayenne Pepper

To warm up cold feet, sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper into your socks. This folk remedy may help warm your toes by increasing circulation and improving blood flow.

Break Out the Duct Tape

Stick it to warts with this unusual remedy. Some research found that applying the tape over problem areas for about a week helped clear up warts as well as conventional treatment. Duct tape may work by irritating the skin, triggering an immune reaction that fights the infection typically responsible for warts.

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