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Spring is here, bringing warmer weather, blooming flowers, and the perfect opportunity to shake off the winter blues and get active outdoors. Let’s create a refreshing spring fitness routine that not only keeps you fit but also allows you to soak up the beauty of nature. Here are some classic outdoor exercise ideas to help you make the most of this beautiful season:

NATURE WALKS AND HIKES

Spring is the ideal time to explore local trails and parks. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, being in nature can boost your mood and improve your cardiovascular health. Bring a friend, family member, or your dog to make it a fun and social activity.

BIKING ADVENTURES

Dust off your bike and hit the road or local bike paths. Cycling is an excellent way to build strength and endurance while enjoying the scenic views of spring. Plan a weekend bike trip or incorporate cycling into your daily commute for a refreshing start to your day.

YOGA IN THE PARK

Take your yoga practice outdoors and enjoy the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. Find a peaceful spot in a park or your backyard, lay down your mat, and flow through your favourite poses. Outdoor yoga can help you connect with nature, reduce stress, and enhance your flexibility.

GARDENING WORKOUTS

Gardening is a fantastic way to stay active while tending to your home environment. Digging, planting, weeding, and watering all count as physical exercise, helping you burn calories and build strength. Plus, you get the added benefit of growing your own fresh, organic produce!

RUNNING OR JOGGING

Spring is a great time to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement. The moderate temperatures make running more enjoyable, and the blooming landscapes can provide a motivational backdrop. Set a goal for yourself, like a local 5K race, to keep you focused and driven.

OUTDOOR BOOTCAMPS

Join or create an outdoor boot camp group with friends or neighbours. These high-energy workouts typically combine cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. The group setting can provide motivation and accountability, making it easier to stick to your fitness goals.

PADDLEBOARDING OR KAYAKING

If you live near a body of water, spring is the perfect time to try paddleboarding or kayaking. These water sports are not only fun but also great for building core strength and improving balance. Enjoy the tranquility of the water while getting a full-body workout.

PICNIC AND PLAY

Plan a picnic at a local park and incorporate physical activities like a game of tag, badminton, or even a simple walk around the park. Combining relaxation with bursts of activity can make for a well-rounded and enjoyable day outdoors.

OUTDOOR DANCE CLASSES

Check out local listings for outdoor dance classes or start your own. Dancing is a fantastic way to burn calories and have fun. The energy and rhythm of the music, coupled with the fresh air, can make your workout feel more like a celebration. I actually know a lady who does this on the regular and she has random strangers come dance with her every time!

Spring is such a pleasant time to be outdoors so why not incorporate some of these outdoor exercise ideas into your fitness routine. Not only will you improve your physical health, but you’ll also get to enjoy the beauty and rejuvenation that being outdoors brings. Happy exercising!

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your diet and embrace the abundance of fresh, seasonal produce. As nature awakens, so can your eating habits, leading to a healthier, more vibrant you. Here are some nutritional tips to help you spring clean your diet:

EMBRACE LEAFY GREENS

Spring brings a variety of leafy greens like spinach, arugula, and kale. These greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your overall health. Add them to salads, smoothies, and stir-fries for a nutrient boost.

ADD COLOUR WITH BERRIES

Berries such as strawberries and blueberries are not only delicious but also rich in antioxidants and fiber. Enjoy them as a snack, in yogurt, or as a topping for your morning oatmeal.

INCORPORATE CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are abundant in spring. These veggies are high in fiber and contain compounds that support detoxification and hormonal balance.

ENJOY FRESH HERBS

Spring herbs like mint, parsley, and cilantro can enhance the flavour of your dishes while providing health benefits. Herbs are rich in phytonutrients and can aid digestion and reduce inflammation.

HYDRATE WITH CITRUS FRUITS

Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are refreshing and hydrating. They are packed with vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and helps maintain healthy skin.

TRY SEASONAL ROOT VEGETABLES

Carrots, radishes, and beets are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals. Roast them for a delicious side dish or add them to salads for extra crunch and nutrition.

EXPERIMENT WITH SPRING RECIPES

Spring is the perfect time to try new recipes that incorporate fresh produce. Think light and vibrant dishes like vegetable stir-fries, fresh fruit salads, and homemade green juices.

VISIT LOCAL FARMERS

Support local farmers and get the freshest produce by shopping at farmers’ markets. You’ll find a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables that can inspire your spring meals.

Are some of your favourites on this list!?

Let me know what you love most about Spring!

Winter is a time when our bodies crave warmth, nourishment, and vitality. Embracing the seasonal superfoods that nature provides can help support our health and wellbeing during these colder months. Packed with essential nutrients, these winter superfoods not only enhance our immune system but also provide the energy and comfort we need to thrive. Let’s explore the incredible benefits of incorporating winter superfoods into your diet.

CITRUS FRUITS: THE VITAMIN C POWERHOUSES

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and mandarins are winter’s natural immune boosters. Rich in vitamin C, they help strengthen the immune system, ward off colds, and improve skin health. Their refreshing taste and bright colours also bring a bit of sunshine into the winter gloom.

Benefits:

  • Boosts immune function
  • Supports healthy skin
  • Provides antioxidants

DARK LEAFY GREENS: THE NUTRIENT-DENSE GIANTS

Kale, spinach, collard greens, and Swiss chard thrive in winter and are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. These greens support bone health, improve vision, and enhance the body’s ability to heal and repair itself.

Benefits:

  • Strengthens bones
  • Improves eye health
  • Aids in detoxification

ROOT VEGETABLES: THE GROUNDING NOURISHERS

Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, and turnips are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They provide steady energy, promote digestion, and help regulate blood sugar levels. Their hearty, grounding nature makes them perfect for hearty winter meals.

Benefits:

  • Promotes digestive health
  • Regulates blood sugar levels
  • Provides sustained energy

WINTER SQUASH: THE COMFORTING CARBOHYDRATES

Butternut squash, spaghetti squash, and pumpkin are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. These versatile vegetables can be roasted, pureed into soups, or baked into comforting dishes that nourish the body and soul.

Benefits:

  • Enhances immune function
  • Supports heart health
  • Aids in healthy digestion

POMEGRANATES: THE ANTIOXIDANT-RICH JEWELS

Pomegranates are a true winter gem, bursting with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. These vibrant seeds can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and support healthy digestion. They add a festive touch to salads, desserts, and beverages.

Benefits:

  • Reduces inflammation
  • Supports heart health
  • Improves digestion

NUTS AND SEEDS: THE NUTRIENT POWERHOUSES

Walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They help keep you full and satisfied, support brain health, and provide a dose of essential omega-3 fatty acids.

Benefits:

  • Supports brain health
  • Provides healthy fats
  • Keeps you full and satisfied

FERMENTED FOODS: THE GUT HEALTH CHAMPIONS

Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir are rich in probiotics, which support a healthy gut microbiome. A healthy gut is crucial for overall wellbeing, as it influences everything from digestion to immunity to mood.

Benefits:

  • Promotes healthy digestion
  • Enhances immune function
  • Supports mental health

Incorporating these winter superfoods into your diet can provide the essential nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and vibrant during the colder months. Tell me which ones of these foods you most enjoy in Winter. By aligning your diet with nature’s rhythm, you can enhance your health and wellbeing all winter long.

Winter is a magical time to engage your children in hands-on learning through science experiments. For mothers who embrace a natural lifestyle and prefer a holistic approach to education, these winter science projects are perfect. They not only stimulate curiosity and creativity but also foster a deeper connection with the natural world. Here are some easy and fun winter science experiments to enjoy with your kids.

ICE LANTERNS

Ice lanterns are a beautiful way to explore the science of freezing and melting while creating stunning decorations for your home.

Materials:

  • Balloons
  • Water
  • Food colouring (optional)
  • Tea light candles

Instructions:

  1. Fill balloons with water and a few drops of food colouring if desired.
  2. Tie the balloons and place them outside or in your freezer until they are completely frozen.
  3. Once frozen, cut and remove the balloon to reveal the ice.
  4. Place a tea light candle inside the ice lantern and enjoy the magical glow.

Science Behind It:
Discuss the freezing point of water and how ice forms. You can also talk about how temperature affects the state of matter.

SNOW VOLCANO

Combine the excitement of a classic baking soda and vinegar volcano with the magic of snow for a winter twist.

Materials:

  • Baking soda
  • Vinegar
  • Food colouring (optional)
  • Snow
  • A small container (like a plastic cup)

Instructions:

  1. Build a mound of snow around the small container to create a volcano shape.
  2. Fill the container with baking soda and a few drops of food colouring.
  3. Pour vinegar into the container and watch the eruption!

Science Behind It:
Explain the chemical reaction between baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid) that produces carbon dioxide gas, causing the eruption.

FROZEN BUBBLES

Blowing bubbles is a year-round favourite, but in winter, they can transform into beautiful, fragile ice bubbles.

Materials:

  • Bubble solution (store-bought or homemade with water and dish soap)
  • Bubble wand
  • Freezing temperatures

Instructions:

  1. Head outside on a very cold day (preferably below freezing).
  2. Blow bubbles and watch as they freeze in the air or on the ground.
  3. Observe the delicate ice crystals that form on the surface of the bubbles.

Science Behind It:
Discuss how the freezing temperatures cause the water in the bubble solution to freeze, creating ice bubbles. This is a great way to learn about states of matter and temperature.

CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKES

Create your own sparkly crystal snowflakes using simple household materials.

Materials:

  • Borax
  • Hot water
  • Pipe cleaners
  • String
  • A pencil
  • A jar

Instructions:

  1. Twist pipe cleaners into snowflake shapes.
  2. Tie a string to one end of the snowflake and the other end to a pencil.
  3. Dissolve borax in hot water (about 3 tablespoons per cup of water) and pour into the jar.
  4. Hang the snowflake in the jar, ensuring it doesn’t touch the sides or bottom.
  5. Leave it overnight and watch crystals form on the pipe cleaner.

Science Behind It:
Talk about how the borax solution becomes supersaturated, and as it cools, the borax molecules start to crystallize on the pipe cleaners.

SALT AND ICE EXPERIMENT

Explore how salt affects the freezing point of water with this simple and fascinating experiment.

Materials:

  • Ice cubes
  • Salt
  • String

Instructions:

  1. Place a few ice cubes on a plate.
  2. Sprinkle salt over the ice cubes.
  3. Lay a piece of string over the salted ice cubes and wait a few minutes.
  4. Lift the string and see how it sticks to the ice!

Science Behind It:
Explain that salt lowers the freezing point of water, causing the ice to melt slightly. The water refreezes around the string, creating a bond.

These winter science experiments are not only fun and educational but also align with a natural, holistic approach to learning. They encourage children to explore the world around them, ask questions, and develop a love for science. Create lasting memories with your little ones while nurturing their curiosity and creativity.

Let me know if you try any of these experiments!

As the Winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a nourishing meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your overall health and well-being. I’ve found some amazingly good, hearty and wholesome recipes for you, featuring seasonal ingredients that are perfect for cozying up during the colder months. From hearty soups and stews to soothing herbal teas, these recipes will nourish your body and soul all Winter long.

HEARTY VEGETABLE SOUP

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of hearty vegetable soup on a cold Winter day. Packed with seasonal vegetables like carrots, celery, potatoes, and kale, this soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Add protein-rich beans or lentils for an extra nutritional boost, and season with warming herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Serve with crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying and wholesome meal that will keep you warm from the inside out.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND APPLE SOUP

Butternut squash and apple soup is a classic Winter dish that perfectly balances sweetness and warmth. Roasted butternut squash lends a creamy texture and rich flavour, while tart apples add brightness and depth. Infused with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, this soup is a comforting and nourishing option for chilly days. Garnish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added creaminess and crunch.

LENTIL AND KALE STEW

Lentil and kale stew is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for warming up on a cold Winter evening. Packed with protein-rich lentils, hearty vegetables, and nutrient-dense kale, this stew is a complete meal in itself. Flavorful herbs and spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika add depth of flavor, while a splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish. Serve with a side of whole-grain rice or crusty bread for a satisfying and comforting meal that will keep you full and fueled for hours.

TURMERIC GOLDEN MILK

Turmeric golden milk is a soothing and immune-boosting beverage that’s perfect for sipping on cold Winter nights. Made with a blend of turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper, this warm and aromatic drink is packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Sweetened with a touch of honey or maple syrup and enriched with creamy coconut milk, turmeric golden milk is a delicious and nourishing way to support overall health and well-being during the Winter months.

NOURISH YOUR BODY AND SOUL

With these nutritious and comforting Winter recipes, you can nourish your body and soul while staying warm and cozy all season long. Whether you’re craving a hearty soup, a comforting stew, or a soothing herbal tea, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and support your overall health and well-being during the colder months. So why not gather your ingredients, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy a delicious and nourishing meal that’s perfect for Winter?

Let me know if you try any!

For a few years I had my family on a gluten free diet because I was trying to heal an issue with one of my kids. It was just easier to put us all on it rather than cook different meals for different people. It helped a little, I will say that, but I’ve since discovered that gluten wasn’t actually the problem.

If you know me, you know that I am a big fan of traditional foods and how our ancestors prepared food, and as I began to dig deeper into the gluten debate I found that it was more likely the manipulation of the wheat grain and how it was being prepared that was causing the problem.

I believe now that, unless you have a serious medical condition that requires you to eliminate gluten from your diet, like celiac disease, or you have specific healing to do to restore the gut (especially the fingerlike protrusions lining the small intestine called villi), gluten and grains can be included in most people’s diet and offer vital nutrients.

I know there are other conditions like irritable bowl syndrome and allergies or sensitivities to wheat and gluten, but from my experience, these things go away once the real problem is addressed. One of the main things we need to look out for is where our grains are coming from, how are they farmed and harvested, are they sprayed with glyphosate and other pesticides, are they GMO, also how are they being stored… And then, we need to know how to prepare them properly with soaking, fermenting and sprouting.

DEBUNKING THE GLUTEN MYTH

Are you tired of hearing about the so-called evils of gluten? Let’s take a different perspective today. It’s time to explore the fascinating topic of how traditional societies prepared grains without any major health concerns!

DID YOU KNOW?

Weston A. Price, a renowned researcher, extensively studied indigenous cultures worldwide and found that grains, when prepared in certain ways, offered valuable nutrients and posed no harm to human health. Let’s dive into some of his fascinating findings, which can be found on westonaprice.org!

TRADITIONAL METHODS OF PREPARING GRAINS

By adopting traditional grain preparation techniques, we can unleash their true potential and potentially enjoy the benefits our ancestors cherished.

SOAKING

Traditional societies understood the importance of soaking grains before consumption. This practice helps break down phytic acid, a natural compound found in grains that can interfere with mineral absorption. By soaking grains in water or a natural acidic medium, enzymes are activated, mitigating potential digestive issues and boosting nutrient availability.

FERMENTING

Fermentation is an age-old technique used to enhance the digestibility and nutrient profile of grains. Traditional cultures commonly fermented grains for extended periods, triggering a biological process where natural bacteria feed on carbohydrates, making the grains easier to digest.

SPROUTING

Sprouted grains are incredibly nutritious as they undergo natural enzymatic changes. The sprouting process not only breaks down phytic acid but also increases the content of certain vitamins and minerals. Sprouted grains offer enhanced enzyme activity, making them more digestible and gentle on our bodies.

Curious to explore more about traditional grain preparation and nutrition?

Check out westonaprice.org, where you’ll find wealth of knowledge and resources on this fascinating topic! Remember, understanding the true nature of grains can help us make informed choices and regain trust in their place within a balanced, wholesome diet.

FREE RESOURCE

https://allnaturalmumma.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Debunking-the-Gluten-Myth.pdf

Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle. This post is for informational purposes only.

Does the idea of growing your own medicine seem exciting to you?

Here are 10 plants that you can easily grow in your garden that have medicinal benefits.

COMFREY

Comfrey prefers moist soil in a sunny or partially shaded site. The leaves and flowering tops are gathered in Summer and the roots in Autumn. Wear gloves!

Due to comfrey’s rapid healing potential, use on clean wounds only.

  • useful in First Aid
  • known as ‘knitbone’
  • useful for sprains, strains, bruises, aches and pains, arthritis and ulcers
  • speeds up the healing of bones and tissues
  • useful expectorant
  • reduces gastrointestinal and bronchial inflammation
  • applied topically as a poultice, cream or macerated oil

Avoid during pregnancy. Not to be taken internally.

ECHINACEA (coneflowers)

Echinacea prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun. The leaves can be gathered anytime during the growing season and the roots can be dug out in Autumn after flowering.

Echinacea is best taken as a tincture and combines well with elderberry for respiratory conditions.

Dilute and use as a lotion for wounds and bites.

  • natural antibiotic
  • immune booster
  • shortens the duration of colds and flu
  • useful for coughs, colds, earache, viral infections and sore throats
  • joint and cartilage healer
  • spider and snake bites
  • insect sting
  • may help prevent severe infection

Avoid high doses which may occasionally cause nausea and dizziness.

CHAMOMILE

Both German and Roman Chamomile prefer a sunny position in the garden with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. The flowers are gathered in Summer.

Chamomile is best known as a calming tea but when cooled can also act as a soothing lotion to relieve hot, irritated or inflamed skin.

  • helps to relieve eczema, skin rashes, sunburn and hives
  • calms digestive system and feelings of nausea
  • relieves indigestion and gastrointestinal spasms
  • helps with feelings of nervousness
  • reduces stress and insomnia
  • may relieve menstrual cramps due to antispasmodic nature
  • reduces itchiness
  • reduces fever
  • soothes the nerves

Chamomile may cause contact dermatitis. Avoid if allergic to the Compositae family.

CRAMP BARK

Cramp bark prefers to grow in moist, well drained soil in sun or in dappled shade. Collect the inner bark in Spring and Summer while the plant is in flower.

It’s no surprises how this amazing plant can help you. Just look at the name!

Best used as a tincture.

  • relaxes the muscles
  • antispasmodic
  • useful for menstrual cramps and excessive bleeding
  • reduces backache and muscular spasms

Avoid during pregnancy.

CAYENNE

Cayenne (or chile pepper) loves to grow in pots with loads of good quality compost. Gather in Summer when the fruit is ripe and dry in the shade.

Cayenne is most often used in cooking but has traditionally been used as a warming remedy. Use the powder or fresh fruit (including the seeds) to make a macerated oil or tincture.

Can be used in warm water too.

  • stimulates the circulatory system
  • regulates blood flow
  • helps to maintain healthy blood pressure
  • strengthens the heart, arteries, capillaries and nerves
  • may arrest internal and external bleeding
  • clears phlegm from the lungs
  • reduces sinus congestion

Excessive use of cayenne pepper can lead to gastric irritation. Avoid touching the eyes when handling.

YARROW

Yarrow prefers full sun and well drained soil. Flowers can be gathered as soon as they appear and the leaves and other aerial parts in Summer.

Yarrow was traditionally used to treat wounds however it is also beneficial to both the urinary and respiratory systems.

  • combine with lime blossoms and hawthorn for healthy blood pressure
  • may assist with arteriosclerosis
  • soaked cotton balls in tincture for nosebleed
  • assists with fever, promotes sweating
  • boosts immunity
  • tones blood vessels
  • stimulates digestion
  • urinary antiseptic
  • assists with cystitis
  • wound healing
  • reduces menstrual cramps
  • reduces colds and flu
  • yarrow root for dental pain

Avoid in pregnancy.

GRINDELIA (gumweed)

Grindelia prefers light to medium sandy soil and full sun. Collect the aerial parts as soon as the flower buds open and dry in the sun.

Traditionally Grindelia was used to treat dermatitis caused by poison ivy.

  • assists with asthmatic and bronchial conditions
  • relaxes smooth muscles and heart muscles
  • helps to reduce catarrh and upper respiratory congestion
  • useful in treating cystitis and bladder infections
  • may help to reduce blood pressure
  • may increase heart rate to assist with healing
  • useful expectorant
  • antispasmodic
  • antimicrobial

Grindelia is not recommended for those with heart or kidney conditions.

CALENDULA (marigold)

Calendula prefers to grow in well drained soil in full sun but will also tolerate some shade. Collect the flowers in Summer and take care when drying to prevent discolouration.

Calendula is a popular plant that is prized for its versatility. Best used as an infusion, tincture, cream or macerated oil.

  • stimulates healing and is soothing to the skin
  • useful for abrasions, rashes, eczema, ulcers and wounds
  • antiseptic, great for first aid
  • reduces inflammation on the skin
  • may be useful for wound healing and external bleeding
  • helpful when used on bruises and strains
  • useful cleansing agent and healing cream
  • apply to minor burns and scalds
  • use the macerated oil to prevent stretch marks
  • helps regulate healthy menstrual flow
  • helpful for digestive conditions like gastric and duodenal ulcers

Avoid if allergic to ragweed, daisies, marigold, or plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family.

MALLOW (common mallow)

Mallow loves well drained soil and prefers full sun, however it will tolerate dappled shade as well. Collect the flowers and leaves in Summer.

The entire plant is edible and is commonly used as a compress, tincture or infusion.

  • useful for bladder infections
  • helps to recover from gastritis and stomach ulcers
  • helps to treat bronchial inflammation, laryngitis and pharyngitis
  • aids respiratory health and reduces catarrh
  • used topically against abscesses, boils and minor burns
  • soothing to the throat due to mucilage content
  • soothing to wounds, rashes and insect bites
  • may act as a gentle laxative
  • relieves anxiety and nervousness

Mallow is a safe, edible plant when harvested in proper locations and not contaminated. You might even find it in your own backyard!

PLANTAIN

Plaintain enjoys moist, poor to moderately fertile soil in full sun or partial shade and can often be found growing in hedges, pavement cracks and grassy areas. Gather the leaves in Summer from unpolluted areas.

Plantain is a common weed that is traditionally used in first aid. Use topically in the form of a poultice or ingest as a syrup, infusion, tincture or juice!

  • natural antihistamine action
  • useful for venomous bites and stings
  • soothes irritation from rashes
  • combine with calendula to treat cuts and abrasions
  • treats bladder infections
  • reduces excess fluid in the body
  • useful for coughs and mild bronchitis
  • naturally astringent and antiseptic
  • supports tissue regeneration
  • helps in cases of diarrhoea and haemorrhoids

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.

Strawberries are such a delightful fruit and homegrown, oh my goodness, there is nothing that beats that sweet, juicy taste. We love them in smoothies, as a topper for acai bowls, yoghurt and granola and even just on their own!

Remember to wash thoroughly if you are not buying organic or growing your own. Unfortunately, strawberries are one of the most heavily sprayed fruits in commercial growing.

See here for a list of the Dirty Dozen.

And here are some of the amazing health benefits of strawberries..

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells against free-radical damage and it helps form and maintain bones, skin, and blood vessels.

MANGANESE

Manganese helps the body form connective tissue, bones, blood clotting factors, and sex hormones. It also plays a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption and blood sugar regulation. Manganese is also necessary for normal brain and nerve function.

FOLATE

Folate is an essential B vitamin that is necessary for the production of red and white blood cells in bone marrow, producing DNA and RNA and transforming carbohydrates into energy.

POTASSIUM

Potassium helps the body maintain normal levels of intracellular fluid and it also helps muscles to contract, supporting normal blood pressure.

Do you love strawberries?

Have you tried growing them at home?

Let me know if they are your favourite fruit!

Once upon a time we didn’t call food organic or non-organic, it was just food.

Can we all just go back to that please?

It bothers me that organic farmers have to prove their organic-ness and pay for organic accreditation just so we, the consumers, know their food is just as nature intended. Shouldn’t it be the other way round?

I’m not an agricultural expert by any means but I have grown my own and know all too well the effort it takes to produce a crop without the use of synthetic pesticides.

And that’s just for my little backyard garden!

So, why do we want to avoid these nasty chemicals in the first place?

Pesticides are toxic chemicals designed to kill agricultural pests and unfortunately when consumed by humans have been linked to cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, ADHD and even birth defects.

THE DIRTY DOZEN AND CLEAN 15

The EWG’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™ (aka Dirty Dozen and Clean 15) is updated each year and ranks pesticide contamination on 47 popular fruits and vegetables.

While this isn’t Aussie specific, it does give you a very good indication of the types of fruits and vegetables that are the most hard hit.

We don’t want to avoid any fruits and vegetables, so if you can’t buy local and organic, opt for an all natural fruit and veggie wash like the Thieves Fruit and Veggie Soak as a great alternative.

We actually use it even on our organic bought produce and it’s surprising to see what’s left in the water and the difference it makes to the longevity of our fresh food.

SUPPORTING LOCAL FARMERS

Many local farmers grow their crops using all or mostly organic practices but aren’t big enough, or simply choose not to, pay for accreditation. It makes sense to get to know them and ask them how they do things so that you can happily buy their produce and feel good knowing you are not only supporting them but also giving your family high quality and nutrient dense local foods.

Do you know where your local organic market is?

Or are you growing your own!

Let me know in the comments.

Summer is officially over but it’s not too cool to still enjoy a freshly made strawberry and mint sorbet.

This recipe ticks all the boxes if you are needing something sweet and tasty but you want to make it at home quickly and easily without any silly chemicals or unhealthy ingredients.

There is the option to add a little refined caster sugar or rapadura if you want to but the strawberries, mint and apple are quite sweet on their own.

I needed to supplement my homegrown strawberries at the market with this recipe as I’m not producing as much right now. I also grabbed some beautiful organic apples to juice up.

My mint is growing great guns however, so I was super excited to add that in to the recipe.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED

  • 250 – 280g of strawberries (you can use frozen)
  • 3/4 cup ice cubes
  • 60 mL organic apple juice
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint
  • 1 tsp caster or rapadura sugar (optional)

METHOD

  1. Blend all ingredients together until your desired consistency.
  2. Add a little water or extra juice if you need it smoother.

Want to know the nutritional benefits of strawberries?

Check out this post here.

And if you’d like to know the latest Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 list for 2022, go here.

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