by Stefani Ruper | Oct 26, 2018 | Blog, Food, This Week in Paleo |
Are you sick of pumpkin spiced everything yet? This blend of spices tastes great on a lot of things I eat including in cinnamon tea, in oatmeal, in yogurt, the options are ENDLESS Y’ALL. And it is the perfect essential in any paleo autumn treat. That does not mean I am 100% on team pumpkin spice, and definitely not a fan of Pumpkin Spice Lattes (or Lattes in general), I just have an appreciative taste for cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.
But – if you are unlike me and aren’t necessarily a fan of pumpkin spiced things, I wanted to share a few of my overall autumn and winter seasonal snacks. A lot of these things still contain pumpkin based ingredients, but not all are strictly pumpkin based.
Either way, there are a lot of seasonal snacks and treats that disappear come January, so you can bet I am stocking up now for when I am sick of summer and heat next year (lol).
Also, not all of these items are strictly paleo. Most of them are gluten free & dairy free though. Just a friendly tidbit – all snacks are guilt free because food is neither good nor bad, right or wrong. < 3
Bars
Nutty Pumpkin Bread – This nutty pumpkin bread is like a combination of a pumpkin muffin and a pumpkin granola bar all in one. It has a similar texture to Larabars. The Nutty Pumpkin Bread Bar is made with cashews, pecans and pumpkin spice.
Pumpkin Spice Protein Bar – We all are familiar with RX bars, they are great easy options especially when traveling. They have two great seasonal flavors, pumpkin spice, and apple cinnamon. If you have not had an RX bar, it is important to note the texture resembles that of almost a laffy taffy, so be careful with those fillings and crowns! Get the no B.S. treat here.
Nut Butters
Pumpkin Seed Butter – Okay so not only is this pumpkin seed butter (YUM) but it is sprouted pumpkin seed butter. The only ingredient in this delicious butter is just pumpkin seeds. This butter is great for those that do not like sweeter nut butters; pumpkin butter has much more of a savory taste.
Tiger Nut Butter – If Tiger Nuts are more your thing, than this is the nut butter for you. The team over at Toots blended honey and cinnamon into this delicious spread, making it the perfect companion for your oatmeal, smoothies, or accompanying a delicious apple. Get the delicious Tiger Nut Butter here.
Granola
Apple Cinnamon Granola – Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Non-GMO, this granola is a great alternative to gluten-filled granola. It is a hearty and delicious blend of organic nuts, fruits, seeds, and spices. This granola is insanely delicious with the new GT’s living coconut yogurt, or my favorite, mixed with other trail mix staples for a sufficient snack.
Chewy Pumpkin Granola – Another splendid granola, this one is definitely more pumpkin-y. The ingredients contain a blend of nuts like almonds and walnuts, along with honey, coconut, and vanilla. I know this may be overdoing it with the pumpkin, but this crunchy granola is splendid on top of a fluffy gluten free pumpkin pancake.
Bonus Treats
Apple Cinnamon Plantains – With three ingredients, these make the perfect easy snack for when you don’t feel like pulling anything together. Plantains definitely lean on the side of sweet to me, so the addition of cinnamon is an easy transition. Get these tasty treats here.
Coconut Cinnamon Wraps – Looking for the ultimate tortilla to wrap your pumpkin seed butter in? This is it! These coconut wraps only have four ingredients, and are versatile for any delicious autumn spiced snack. These are great with apples and nut butter, or bananas and nut butter! Snatch them up here.
Power Loaded Cinnamon Creamer – This creamer has all the coffee essentials loaded into one bottle. It is made with 100% grass fed ghee, organic coconut based MCT and cinnamon. If you are looking for an easy way to spice up your coffee, this is it. This creamer does contain sunflower lecithin though, so if you are sensitive to lecithin be wary.
So there you have it! Stock up those pantries with these seasonal items while you can. AND definitely let me know – are you Team Pumpkin Spice or Team No Pumpkin Spice?
<3
by Stefani Ruper | Oct 19, 2018 | Blog, Superfoods, This Week in Paleo |
We have talked about adaptogens on the blog, and the benefits they can have on regulating our hormones, nervous systems, and adrenal functions – amongst other things. (If you aren’t sure what an adaptogen is, check out this post. ) Maca is one such adaptogen that has been touted as a superfood. I wanted to get to the bottom of this buzzword “superfood” and see if Maca really has standing power in the world of verified and beneficial adaptogens.
I have seen several people in the paleo community rave about Maca, but what is it really? How is it used? Does it taste earthy like a lot of adaptogens? Well loves, I did the lifting for you and have unearthed the truth regarding Maca.
What is it?
Maca Root is found in the Andes region of Peru; a common staple in Peruvian cooking. The Maca Root is amongst the same family of foods as kale, broccoli, and cabbage. Maca was used as currency and in trade for the Peruvians, and it is even believed the Incans may have used the root as a delicacy within the royal families.
A very interesting point to consider, Maca Root is used often when there is a disruption in the endocrine system or in the sex hormone systems of the body, or to increase overall sexual health and libido. It is important to note that Maca is not creating a libido for you (curious how to improve your overall libido? Check out this post). Maca is essentially allowing your body to move through stressful periods or less stressful periods as a way to ease the nervous system. It is actually working towards eliminating the stress that may be causing the libido system to be hindered.
What is it used for?
- Reducing Menopause Side Effects – Maca has been studied in trials regarding menopausal systems, with positive results. Overall, the women that were tested saw significant decrease in night flushes, nervousness, mood swings, fatigue, stress and depression, to name a few. These women also experienced higher energy and mood levels overall. It should be noted this study was conducted on a small handful of women.
- Overall Anti-Inflammatory Effects – Phytonutrients are found in Maca Root. Phytonutrients contain large quantities of anti-inflammatory properties and are thought to boost the immune system. Maca root also contains a decent amount of vitamins and minerals including the following:
- Vitamin C
- Copper
- Iron
- Potassium
- Vitamin B6
- Manganese
- Vitamin B12
- Niacin
- Fertility – There is a lot of speculation revolving around Maca’s true potential to support fertility and libido health. Mainly, most of these studies have been conducted on men, so the effects it may have on women are still unsure.
- Improving Learning and Memory – Those that supplement with Maca Root Powder have seen improved energy levels which may be associated with cognitive benefits (key word here is may). Increased energy levels are correlated to improved mood and also improved learning and memory skills. This is kind of a give-in, when you feel like you have the energy to conquer a task it can be a confidence and mood booster, especially if you struggle with fatigue.
- Improving Mood- Maca supports the HPA axis helping the body support its own production of hormones. This can help create a support system for your cardiovascular, respiratory, lymphatic and nervous systems. Instead of hitting a hard collapse or flight mode, your body is supported and the impact is less intense on the body, resulting in less inflammation and overall stress. There have been clinical studies showing a reduction in depression levels for those that take Maca, along with a reduction in blood pressure levels.
How do people use it?
Maca definitely has a very distinct taste. I have heard it be referred to as a malt-y taste, and the smell is definitely reminiscent of that. I have friends that add it to their morning coffee swearing it turns it into a milk-shake like taste. With most adaptogens, it depends on your biochemistry on whether or not you will be a fan of this creamy earthy adaptogen. If the taste is overwhelming, mix it with something that has a stronger taste base, like a peanut or almond butter smoothie. I have seen recipes containing Maca that vary from bars to smoothies to cookies or other treats.
Warnings:
Maca root has not been associated with an any ill advised side effects. Its apparent effect on the endocrine system though should be considered with caution, especially if you are in treatment for any types of cancer or hormone therapy. Definitely consult with your doctor before starting any adaptogens to make sure they are right for you.
I do not typically use adaptogens as I have had negative side effects and reactions to each adaptogen I do try. I hope to get to a point in the future where I am able to try out some of the milder adaptogens, but in the mean time I stay clear. Please let me know if you are trying these and what effects and reactions you have!
Favorite Brands & Recipes
I have three fantastic recipes that are easy and delicious below. Most of the recipes that Maca Root is found in are typically on the sweeter side as the malty notes in it play off of sweeteners very well. If you are looking for a particular Maca Root Powder to use, this one is a well-rated great option (will insert aff link).
Happy Hormones Hot Chocolate
So the long story short, Maca has a lot of mixed results. Some people swear by it, some people point to flawed studies on small demographics. I think the history and prevalence of Maca points to a lot of good theories, I am just not sure the science is fully there to support every claim at this point. I am curious though, have you tried Maca? If so, have you had any noticeable effects?
<3
by Stefani Ruper | Oct 12, 2018 | Blog, This Week in Paleo |
I have been using Annmarie Natural Cosmetic products for a few years now. They are a fantastic company focused on making beauty products that are natural & organic.They do this really well, along with cultivating an experience for their customers by packaging their products in well-thought out and beautiful gift sets.
Their organic, wild-crafted herbs and ingredients, infused and extracted at low temperature, are of the highest quality. The main reason I love this company so much is that they offer travel size products and a money back guarantee, so you are not making a long term commitment if you purchase their products and they don’t work for you.
All of us have varying skin types. I 100% believe the only way to find the best product for our skin is by trying it out.
Annmarie Skin Care is having a special promo right now where you can try out three of their best products for a super low price. Their 3-step Restore Trial Kit restores skin back to life using the best ingredients from nature.
This kit contains an aloe vera based cream cleanser, soothing toning mist, and herb-infused facial moisturizer, guaranteed to deliver beautiful, glowing skin or your money back.
The Skin Restore Kit Contains:
- Aloe-Herb Cleanser: Because this aloe-based cleanser removes impurities without stripping away your skin’s natural oils, you will feel like your skin is breathing for the first time. You’ll notice visible results that compound over time versus a quick fix that strips your skin.
- Neroli Toning Mist: Positively intoxicating, instantly revitalizing, this is the perfect product to keep in your purse for those moments when you need to freshen up. I can’t think of a better way to hydrate and soften your skin. A quick spritz and you’ll be in an orange-blossom aroma oasis, in the middle of a busy day. This product is comparative to the Beautycounter Rose Facial spray, but I think it smells so much better. I am slightly obsessed with neroli. Neroli is a very loud scent though, so if you are sensitive to these kinds of things know that it may be slightly intense.
- Anti-Aging Oil: A few drops of this herb-infused formula delivers a concentrated dose of moisture for those autumn and winter months when dry air and indoor heating make it difficult to feel beautiful, and for dry and mature skin year round. The fragrance on this reminds me a lot of vetiver, another essential oil. I love this product, it does give me a little redness at first around my eyes but overall my experience has been positive with this anti-aging oil.
If you are looking for new items to include in your regime, I definitely recommend giving these a shot. Get the trial kit for $9.99 ( I definitely did a double take when I saw the price ).
Click here to get it! This deal ends midnight on October 12th.
I wish fabulous, clear & nourished skin to you! <3
by Stefani Ruper | Oct 5, 2018 | Blog, Food, This Week in Paleo |
I have already experienced and survived the first gross cold of the season. I, fortunately, did not succumb to this illness, although all of my acquaintances and coworkers got hit with it. It is the worst hearing a cascade of different coughs at varying octaves throughout the library and knowing “the cold” is coming for you next.
BUT! I started immune system preparation early this year by drinking bone broth the second it was cold enough outside to drink a hot beverage again. (Living for soup season!) Bone broth is a seasonal must have for me, and I do believe it has positively contributed to my stellar immune system (for the most part, I am definitely not immune to everything, unfortunately. I am hoping to get sick a few less time then last year but I swear it is inevitable). I love the taste too; I know it can be difficult for some people to enjoy, but there are other ways to consume it other than drinking it, too. You can mix it into stews and soups, or cook vegetables with it to achieve the same benefits as drinking it.
Bone broth is great for other things besides your immune system too. Check out all of the awesome ways bone broth is beneficial to us in addition to immunity, below:
1. Protect Your Immune System :
Eating chicken noodle soup is a tale as old as time. I always believed this was a myth, but when I started to dissect this myth, the truth came out. Chicken broth was and is the OG of the broth movement. The anti-inflammatory properties of chicken broth have been easing respiratory illness symptoms for decades now. Not only is the warmth comforting but the minerals and nutrients in bone broth are attributed to buffing up our immune system.
2. Joint Health :
it is no secret that collagen is revered for its joint strengthening properties. In fact, collagen has been used as a supplement by athletes in formal studies to deduce whether or not its properties were really effective or not. Check out the study here. Still skeptical? Test out bone broth yourself to see if it really has a strengthening effect on joints.
3. Improve Cognitive Function :
If you are looking for a warm beverage to replace caffeine in your diet, bone broth is the way to go. The umami taste of bone broth combined with the amino acids and collagen make it the perfect, if not superior, replacement to coffee or caffeinated beverages. By decreasing your caffeine intake over time and replacing with bone broth which contains fat, your body is able to draw its energy from the fat instead of a chemical dependency on caffeine molecules.
4. Improve Skin Quality :
In the same fashion that collagen helps increase the elasticity and buoyancy of our joints, it also has the same effect on our skin, nails and hair. As we age the elasticity of our skin and the strength of our nails and hairs weans. Consuming bone broth directly contributes to replenishing our stores of collagen.
5. Heal Your Gut :
This is the reason I initially started drinking bone broth. The act of drinking a warm mug of bone broth in the morning is appealing in itself, but once I realized the gut healing properties of bone broth, they were a game changer. The gelatin in bone broth has been proven to have an anti-inflammatory affect in our gut, as well as introducing healthy bacteria to our gut microbiome. And you know what they say about the gut (if you don’t, start here.)
6. To Get a Wide Variety of Minerals :
According to Chris Kresser, the following minerals have been found prevalent in bone broth:
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Copper
- Iron
- Manganese
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Zinc
When we talk about getting our minerals from our food, this is one of the foods we look up to. The abundant mineral, nutrient, and amino acid properties in bone broth make it an easy choice when you’re looking for simple ways to supplement.
7. Sleep Better :
Glycine, an inhibitory neurotransmitter – found in bone broth has been studied to reveal its anti-inflammatory and anxiety reducing effects on our bodies, which could help us sleep better. Thinking of a warm mug of bone broth before bed instantly makes me sleepy.
You Can Make it Yourself!
You can either purchase the bone broth, my fave right now is from Bonafide Provisions. They have bone broths of different varieties including Chicken, Beef, Turkey, & Frontier (a blend of lamb, beef, turkey, & bison bones). They also have delicious pre-made soups you can purchase like broccoli cheddar. For those that are okay consuming dairy, the broccoli cheddar is GOLD. Imagine Panera broccoli cheddar but 100 times richer, more flavorful, and so much better for you. You can get 20% off all Bonafide products when they use the code: PFW at checkout! Check out their products here.
OR
You can make bone broth at home. Bonafide Provisions has a super easy recipe to do so, here. I used to make my own at home often but the smell in the crockpot is pretty overwhelming after a while. I imagine an instant pot would be an effective alternate to making it in a crock pot!
Best of health & wellness to you!
by Stefani Ruper | Sep 28, 2018 | This Week in Paleo |
Today ButcherBox is sharing a super yummy recipe with us!
They’re also offering us an AMAZING deal this week, so scroll down below to find out more or click here.
With the kids back in school and summer vacations and travel coming to end, it is time to dust off the crock pot and return to convenient, one – pot dishes. For a non-cooking pro like myself, crockpot meals are truly my secret weapon. That and sheet pan meals! Anything that requires literally dumping the ingredients into one form of dish and cooking is a win for me.
Can we talk about how impressive it is to pull a delicious meal out of a crockpot that took little to nearly any effort?
In addition, everyone who signs up as a new member of ButcherBox gets a free 2 pounds of ground beef for life. If beef is a cooking staple of yours, definitely take advantage of the promo. Click here to get it.
Ingredients (11):
- 1 orange bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 c cooked long-grain rice
- ¼ c fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- Rub pork butt all over with 4 Tbsp Cajun spice. Place in slow-cooker and cook on low setting for 6 hrs or high setting for 3-4 hrs. Let rest in liquid for 20 min before shredding. Reserve ¼ c liquid for finishing rice.
- Preheat medium sauté pan, and add oil. Once oil is hot, sauté onions and peppers for 3-5 min, or until color brightens and onions begin to release liquid.
- Add cooked rice, 2 Tbsp Cajun spice, paprika, and reserved pork juices and stir to combine. Cook for 3 more min, or until rice is hot. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve with a healthy dollop of shredded pork on top and fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy!
