By Sarah Axtell, ND onAugust 25, 2022
A supercharged brain-boosting mushroom smoothie to keep you focused and energized Mushrooms are a functional food. Functional foods are foods that go well beyond simply providing calories and good nutrition. They have disease-fighting properties. In other words, they are medicinal, which we get pretty excited… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 24, 2022
This quinoa salad has so much flavor! And it couldn’t be easier! Gut Health Tip: Sometimes quinoa can be difficult to digest, resulting in bloating. Soak your quinoa in water and 1 TBSP apple cider vinegar for at least an hour (I often soak… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onJune 15, 2022
Ingredients 12 ounces package small macaroni noodles cooked according to package directions (use gluten free noodles, if desired)1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking liquid or from the squash/onion…either one will work)1 1/2 cups peeled, cubed butternut squash1/2 large sweet onion peeled and chopped1/4 cup raw cashews1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard1/4 teaspoon garlic powder1/8 teaspoon black pepper1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika1/8 teaspoon turmeric1/8 teaspoon nutmeg1 tablespoon of mellow white miso (optional)… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 6, 2022
Blue Zones are places in the world that not only have high concentrations of people aged 100 and above, but also high numbers of people that have grown old without diseases like diabetes or heart disease. I recently traveled to the Blue Zone region of… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 26, 2022
Papayas are a dietary staple in the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica- a Blue Zone. They are rich in papain, an enzyme that aids in digestion and reduces inflammation. Papayas are also a good source of the vitamins A, C, and E. In addition to the… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 9, 2022
Purple corn flour is a dietary staple in the Blue Zone region of Nicoya, Costa Rica. Purple corn is rich in anthocyanins- antioxidants that have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Research also shows that the anthocyanins found in purple corn may also be beneficial for helping… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 9, 2022
Inspired by the Blue Zone regions of Sardinia, Ikaria, and Loma Linda Beans are a dietary staple of every Blue Zone. Blue Zones are regions around the world where people live the longest and are the healthiest. This recipe includes white beans, or cannellini beans,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 13, 2022
This 4-ingredient cabbage slaw makes for a quick veggie side for tacos. Or add chicken or beans for an easy weekday lunch. Cabbage is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family. Cruciferous vegetables are rich in sulfur-containing compounds known as glucosinolates which support detoxification… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 2, 2022
I recently traveled to the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica, to research the lifestyle of these vital people. Nicoya is a Blue Zone, or a longevity hot spot. In Nicoya, they have the lowest rates of middle-age mortatlity and the second highest concentration of male centenarians… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 13, 2022
These cookie bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! I always add ground flax to baked good to boost the gut-loving fiber, anti-inflammatory essential fats, and satiating protein. And not to mention the hormone-balancing effects of flax! Have I mentioned I love flax?!… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 9, 2022
In the Press: This recipe was published in Natural Awakenings Magazine in 2022 Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with these sweet spinach muffins. Thanks to the ground flaxseeds and almond flour, they are packed with gut-healthy fiber, satiating protein, and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Dry… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onFebruary 6, 2022
This Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash is an all-in-one meal. This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients and be creative! For example, try raw pumpkin seeds or walnuts instead of mushrooms. Or toss the quinoa with your favorite dressing. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 30, 2022
Kale and cabbage are members of the cruciferous vegetable family. Cruciferous vegetables are rich in sulfur-containing compounds known as glucosinolates which support detoxification pathways and help prevent cancer, notably hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast cancer. Cruciferous vegetables help metabolize and balance hormones such as estrogen. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 30, 2022
This Curried Chicken Salad makes for a perfect weekday lunch. Serve over salad greens or inside a lettuce wrap. I use Primal Kitchen mayo in this recipe because it is avocado oil-based rather than inflammatory canola oil. Avocado oil is a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Ingredients:… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 24, 2021
This Avocado Chocolate Mousse (aka “Chocolate Mousse of the Gods”) is simply divine! Yep, that’s right, the main ingredient is heart-healthy AVOCADO! But no one will be able to tell… It’s deceptively delicious! Ingredients: 3 ripe avocados 1/2 cup maple syrupor 1-1/4 cup soft… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onOctober 14, 2021
These cookies are my daughter’s favorite! Delicious and a good source of protein and fiber. These never last long in our house!! INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup unsweetened sunflower butter1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)2-3 tbsp honey2 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted1 tsp. cinnamon1/4 tsp. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 6, 2021
This recipe was inspired by the Green Goddess seasoning I recently picked up at Trader Joe’s. Serve with spaghetti squash and marinara. Or these make for a great protein on a salad with green goddess dressing. Consider doubling the recipe and… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 3, 2021
Purple sweet potatoes are an excellent way to include a hefty dose of antioxidants in your diet. They are a dietary staple in Okinawa, Japan- a blue zone region where individuals have one of the highest life expectancy rates in the world. Avocados are a… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 3, 2021
Evidence suggests that individuals that eat 1-2 servings of fish per week are more than 1/3 less likely to die of heart disease, our nation’s top killer. This Superfood Spiced Salmon recipe is not only heart healthy, but it is also supportive for your joints… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onAugust 12, 2021
A great breakfast option and alternative to oatmeal. Full of protein and fiber. Teff is a grain and a great alternative to wheat, gluten and oats. This recipe is from Clean Eating Magazine Ingredients 1 1/2 cups whole-grain teff1 cup Medjool dates, pitted… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJuly 14, 2021
This salad is perfect for summer. The sweet strawberries and honey mustard dressing is a nice balance to the bitter taste of kale. Ingredients: Salad: 2 bunches of lacinato kale, de-stemmed and chopped 2 TBSP olive oil 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJuly 12, 2021
These cauliflower fritters are so easy and sure to be a family favorite. Eat them as a side for dinner or as a low carb alternative to hashbrowns for breakfast. My kids like to dip them in ketchup. I like to dip them in this… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onMay 31, 2021
Easy to make and delicious Indian spiced lentil stew. This recipe is from Cookie and Kate, one of my favorite websites for healthy vegetarian recipes. INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil1 medium yellow onion, chopped3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger1 jalapeño pepper,… Read More
By lakesidend onMay 22, 2021
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 7, 2021
These are my kids’ favorite! I often double the recipe because they go quickly! They are relatively low in sugar and high in fiber thanks to the oats and ground flaxseeds. Ingredients: Dry Ingredients 1 cup oat flour (simply process gluten-free oats in your… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 1, 2021
IN THE PRESS: This recipe was featured in Natural Awakenings Magazine in 2021. Crisps are often laden with sugar. This one is perfectly sweet without all of the refined sugar. It also contains ground seeds (because my kids don’t like them whole…my sneaky little… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 22, 2021
Maca is a plant native to the Andes, revered for its many nutritional and medicinal properties. Maca is a true superfood, for it is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, plant sterols, protein, and essential fatty acids. Maca provides support for hot flashes, vaginal dryness,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 22, 2021
This Brazil nut “parmesan” makes for a delicious crispy crust for fish, chicken, or tofu. The brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium, which is “food for your thyroid.” The nutritional yeast has a savory, cheesy flavor and is a good source of energizing-B12. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 22, 2021
Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and brussels sprouts, shift the metabolism of estrogen, reducing the cancer-promoting potency of estrogen. Cruciferous vegetables contain Indole-3-carbinol which turns into Diindolylmethane (DIM). DIM is an enzyme that helps to clear excess estrogen out of circulation properly… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 1, 2021
These sweet and spicy energy bites are an easy way to incorporate more anti-inflammatory spices in your diet, such as ginger and turmeric. Coconut is also an all-star in this recipe. Coconut is rich in medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can promote ketone body… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onFebruary 28, 2021
IN THE PRESS: This recipe was featured in Natural Awakenings Magazine in 2021. Ditch the artificial green food coloring this St Patrick’s Day! The combination of sunflower seeds (rich in chlorophyll) and baking soda in these cookies results in a natural green hue. Enjoy!… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onFebruary 18, 2021
Delicata squash is my favorite. The flesh is sweet and creamy. The skin is edible, making this squash particularly easy to prepare! And not to mention the health benefits…squash is full of gut-loving fiber and immune-supportive nutrients such as vitamin A and vitamin C. You… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onJanuary 12, 2021
This is a new take on energy balls. Add mashed chickpeas for even more protein and fiber. These are a great filling snack and energy boost. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 9, 2021
These vegetables can be prepared ahead of time for healthy meal prepping during the week. The turmeric lemon sauce gives the vegetables a nice anti-inflammatory zing! You can choose any vegetables to roast. The ones I chose in this recipe support liver detoxification. Ingredients: 1… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 9, 2021
These Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps make for an easy dinner the whole family will love. The almond butter sauce makes the ground chicken SO flavorful. Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey; or if you are vegetarian, tried chopped walnuts, organic tofu or… Read More
By Aidanne MacDonald-Milewski, ND onDecember 23, 2020
Gluten free ✓ Dairy free ✓ Cane sugar free ✓ This old family recipe with a twist brings a warmth and spicy smells to my home each holiday season. Being iron rich and tangy, this cookie is the perfect addition to any holiday gathering or… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 10, 2020
IN THE PRESS: This recipe was featured in Natural Awakenings Magazine in 2021. This smoothie combines so many superfoods: beets, avocados, flax, and cacao. Beets and beet greens support liver detoxification and are an excellent source of antioxidants (thanks to the deep pigments). Beets… Read More
By Aidanne MacDonald-Milewski, ND onDecember 7, 2020
Winter is a time of change. Change in season, change in daylight, and change in routine. The change in season can be particularly challenging to the immune system. Ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition can help to support your system through the winter months. Culinary… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 23, 2020
Beets are the ultimate food for your liver. Pair this hummus with raw veggies or Flackers (flaxseed cracker). This hummus is bean-free making it easy on digestion. If you can tolerate beans, however, feel free to add ½ can garbanzo beans for added protein. Ingredients:•… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onNovember 13, 2020
Baking falafel is a great alternative to frying. I prefer to bake things because I am not good at watching the stove! I often burn things. This recipe requires just a bit of planning ahead as you need to soak the raw chickpeas overnight. The… Read More
By Aidanne MacDonald-Milewski, ND onNovember 7, 2020
Fall is here and I love to fill my home with warming scents and comforting foods to compliment the change of season. This heart healthy chili recipe is one of my family’s staples this time of year. It combines a mix of fibers, plant-based… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 28, 2020
These Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers make for a quick and easy protein for dinner. I serve them over salad or in lettuce wraps (skip the bun!). Enjoy! Ingredients: 1 lb organic ground turkey1/4 cup chopped flat leaf parsley (can also use fresh chopped basil)1/4 tsp garlic… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 22, 2020
This is a healthy twist on an all time favorite- avocado toast. Ditch the bread and use sweet potatoes instead! Sweet potatoes can be sliced thinly and popped in your toaster just as you would bread. You can get creative with sweet potato toast….consider topping… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 18, 2020
Nutty almond flour, anti-inflammatory turmeric, and smoky paprika join forces to create a crispy breading for chicken- though you can also use it on fish or tofu. This dish is family-friendly. If you or your kids like chicken tenders, these will be a hit. Ingredients… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 18, 2020
With just 5 ingredients, these no bake brownie bites are the perfect healthy treat. They are a great way to incorporate anti-inflammatory walnuts, thyroid-supportive brazil nuts, and magnesium-rich cacao powder in your diet. Ingredients 1 cup pitted… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 12, 2020
This recipe is reminiscent of a traditional African peanut stew. I add my own healthy twist by including turmeric and ginger, two anti-inflammatory super spices. It is perfect for a cool Fall evening. I double the recipe so I can freeze half for an easy… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onSeptember 22, 2020
Make these veggies ahead of time and use throughout the week. They keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Enjoy as a side dish or combine with quinoa. These taste great with quinoa, spaghetti quash, or zucchini noodles tossed in pesto! Click… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onSeptember 15, 2020
Collard greens are a great source of calcium and Vitamin K. Super alkalinizing and a great low carb wrap alternative. Try the recipe below or fill the collard wrap with your favorite fillings. Ingredients: 2 organic collard leaves, washed, dried and stems trimmed… Read More
By Joanne Aponte, ND onSeptember 11, 2020
This dairy free pesto is made from pumpkin and hemp seeds. Seeds are a great alternative to using nuts. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of zinc (one of the most important immune supportive nutrients). The seeds are an excellent vegetarian protein source and source… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onAugust 25, 2020
Zucchini is so versatile. It can be made into noodles, muffins, lasagna, and now cookies! These Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft and chewy, full of fiber, and just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy… Read More