Get ready to take your raw vegan diet to the next level with these homemade pumpkin rosemary crackers. They are savory, 100% raw vegan, and entirely gluten-free. They are nutrient-dense and satisfy your craving for salty snack, whether you are cleansing or not. Unlike most flax crackers, these are not dense; rather, they are quite light and crunchy. The level of crunchiness will depend on how long you keep them in the dehydrator. The thickness of the paste you smear on the dehydrator sheets will also dictate how long you have to dehydrate them.

Fall is pumpkin season, so we love to incorporate raw pumpkin whenever we get the chance. In addition to providing a warming flavor, pumpkin offers a lot of beta-carotene, vitamin C, fiber, and other antioxidants. Two of the antioxidants in pumpkin, zeaxanthin and lutein, work to encourage healthier eyesight. If you do not have pumpkin, you can replace it with butternut squash, as it has a similar flavor, nutritional content, and texture.

Regarding the spices, this recipe calls for rosemary and thyme, which go great with the other ingredients. You can, however, use dill, basil, parsley, cilantro, or other Italian seasonings if you have those on hand. Make things easy for yourself, not more difficult. Lastly, this recipe does take some time to dehydrate (about 20 hours to be exact). Just make sure that you flip the flax mixture once about four to six hours into dehydrating to get an evenly crisp cracker.

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This is not breaking news, but what you put in your body has a direct influence on your overall health. The same can be said for inflammatory markers in the body. It’s no secret that the Standard American Diet is not riddled with nutritionally dense foods. In fact, a new study confirmed that 57% of American adults eat a pro-inflammatory diet. That means that about six in 10 adults regularly eat foods that increase inflammatory markers, which raises the risk of developing heart disease and cancer. 

In certain groups, such as Black Americans and men, inflammatory diets exist at much higher rates. The study’s findings indicated how often people consume pro-inflammatory foods. These foods include processed meats and refined grains, such as white bread. Study authors also highlighted barriers to eating an anti-inflammatory diet that certain groups faced. The study focused on the inflammatory diet scores of American adults from 2005 to 2018. They reported differences by age, race/ethnicity, education, sex, and income. Study authors noted a lot of differences in health conditions between those groups. 

What Is Inflammation and Which Foods Cause It?

It’s not a secret that short-term inflammation is a beneficial thing. Inflammation is part of the body’s healing and recovery process to an injury or virus. Long-term inflammation, or persistent inflammation, can damage the body on a cellular level, which can damage DNA. Health experts note that chronic inflammation is linked to various illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, autoimmune conditions, and neurodegenerative disorders. 

Chronic inflammation doesn’t just creep up out of nowhere. Researchers note that diet plays a big role in its development. There are foods that are definitely pro-inflammatory and there are foods that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Pro-inflammatory foods include hot dogs, unhealthy fats in red meat, refined flour, added sugars, artificial ingredients, preservatives, and excess sodium. Anything that is typically packaged and mass-produced may cause inflammation.

Inflammatory Foods In The American Diet

During this study, researchers wanted to find out how many inflammatory foods Americans routinely eat. The other goal was to determine which of these food groups contributed to the most inflammation. In order to do that, researchers looked at self-reported diets of nearly 60,000 Black, white, and Hispanic adults included in the 2005-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. This program aims to assess the health and nutritional status of people in the U.S. Diets are scored using a metric called the energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index. This measures the inflammatory potential of a diet. 

The measurement of dietary inflammation uses 45 food components, including nutrients, foods, compounds, and drinks. Each of these food items has a score of its pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory level. After looking at all of these foods in a person’s diet, the diet receives an overall inflammatory score. Researchers noted that 57% of the participants had pro-inflammatory diets. Non-Hispanic Black Americans, men, younger adults, and people with lower rates of education or income were more likely to consume more inflammatory foods than other groups. 

This study shows that certain groups have a harder time consuming anti-inflammatory foods. There is likely a twofold explanation for this. First off, you have people’s ability to both access and eat healthy foods. Secondly, there isn’t sufficient education about diet and how it affects the body, in addition to how to prepare healthy meals. The unfortunate reality is that people in certain demographics, especially younger adults in lower income brackets, are surrounded by fast food chains and convenience stores. These “food desserts” are less likely to have large grocery stores or different stores to choose from for specialty items. 

Can You Overcome This Barrier? 

In addition to healthy food scarcity, there is likely a financial barrier to eating more anti-inflammatory foods. Fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables exhibit anti-inflammatory activity, but they are usually more expensive than fast foods or packaged foods. Additionally, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables have a shorter shelf life than other pro-inflammatory foods. 

One thing worth noting is that the study had some limitations. Researchers did not assess dietary patterns over time; rather, they only had information about what people consumed within the past 24 hours. Study authors also noted that dividing participants into race, sex, and socioeconomic status does not always reflect the complexity of these factors. 

How To Make Your Diet More Anti-Inflammatory

There are many ways to introduce more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet. Ideally, focus on consuming more foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as chia seeds, flax seeds, nuts, and salmon. You can also consume fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, legumes, beans, and fresh fruits and vegetables. If your budget does not allow access to fresh fruits and vegetables, try to consume canned vegetables, but opt for low-sodium or sodium-free varieties. You can also make an effort to reduce your intake of processed meats, packaged foods, sugary sodas, and alcohol to help reduce inflammatory markers in the body. Just remember that some dietary changes are better than none!

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Are you familiar with the legendary date shake? Well, if you have ever visited Palm Springs, CA, then you understand their importance. A date shake is a milkshake made with dates and it is a signature recipe of the Coachella Valley, which is where 95% of the countries dates grow. The only thing wrong with a date shake is that it is not raw vegan. Fear not, friends, because we did our best to recreate the classic, while putting our own spin on it. This recipe is just as indulgent, sweet, and filling as a date shake, only it is much healthier for you.

This date smoothie is the perfect combination of creamy banana, rich almond butter, sweet dates, aromatic cinnamon, and chia and flaxseed perfection. One thing you can count on, besides a nutty and sweet flavor profile, is that you will get a good amount of fiber by drinking this smoothie. This smoothie has multiple sources of fiber, including the banana, dates, flaxseed, chia seeds, and almond butter. All of these ingredients provide a mixture of soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which are necessary for optimal digestive function. When the digestive system is running smoothly, the body can eliminate toxins more effectively.

You remember that delicious almond butter we mentioned? Well, make sure that it is raw! The almond butter provides healthy fats and protein, two nutrients that help you feel full. Speaking of healthy fats, let us not forget about the flaxseed and chia seeds, both of which provide valuable omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s help encourage optimal brain and heart function! Basically, this smoothie is a flavor and health bomb, so get to drinking! There’s no time to delay!

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Not everyone is a fan of plain old chia pudding. Blending chia seeds and flax seeds together with a liquid and other ingredients creates a smoother texture that is decadent and delicious. As a bonus, you get a bigger nutrient bang for your buck. Plus, chia and flaxseed pudding is low in carbohydrates and works to reduce inflammation and regulate blood sugar levels. It is also 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and only takes a few minutes to make. 

Separately, chia seeds and flax seeds offer protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and other vitamins and minerals. Enjoying them together in one pudding is like assembling all the Power Rangers come together to form the Mega Tigerzord. Thanks to the people who understood that reference. Together, chia seeds and flax seeds can keep you feeling full for hours, making it a great breakfast or pre- or post-workout snack. Continue reading to learn about the benefits of eating this combined pudding. 

Omega-3s

Omega-3s, or omega-3 fatty acids, are essential for controlling inflammatory markers in the body. According to research, Americans tend to be deficient in anti-inflammatory omega-3s. Instead, they have an excess of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. Although the body can have a balanced ratio of omegas, the average American consumes 15 times more omega-6s than they do omega-3s. Excess levels of omega-6s in the body can contribute to chronic inflammation, which increases the risk for several degenerative diseases, such as heart disease, arthritis, IBD, and Alzheimer’s disease. Eating chia and flaxseed pudding can help boost your omega-3 intake, which may reduce overall inflammation.

Protein

Both chia seeds and flax seeds are great sources of protein. One tablespoon of chia seeds provides 2.5 grams of protein, while one tablespoon of flax seed provides 1.3 grams of protein. Protein works to stabilize blood sugars by slowing the rate at which carbohydrates are digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. Elevated blood sugar levels promote inflammation, which can cause damage to nerves and blood vessels. High blood sugar can also affect the gut microbiome, reducing levels of beneficial bacteria. That increases the risk of leaky gut, which can lead to systemic inflammation. Finally, protein can aid with appetite control and weight management by regulating hunger hormones.

Antioxidants

Every person can benefit from increasing their antioxidant intake. These nutrients have protective effects on cellular health and help protect against oxidative stress by fighting free radicals. Free radicals are natural byproducts of metabolism, but you can introduce more via habits like smoking, lack of physical activity, stress, elevated blood sugars, and poor diet. Chia seeds and flax seeds are rich in antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation, slow the aging process, and decrease the risk of chronic disease. Flax seeds offer chlorogenic acid, lignans, and p-coumaric acid, all of which exhibit anti-cancer and antioxidant effects. Chia seeds contain quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid, which exhibit the same anti-cancer and antioxidant properties. 

Fiber

Chia seeds and flax seeds contain soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which benefit the digestive system. Insoluble fiber accelerates the rate at which food passes through the digestive tract, so it helps to keep you regular. Soluble fiber works to lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels and helps aid with weight management. Soluble fiber swells up like a gel, similar to chia seeds in liquid, and it traps glucose, cholesterol, and other waste products. It then moves that waste through the digestive tract to eliminate it. Additionally, soluble fiber helps decrease levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, and increase levels of satiety. That makes chia and flax pudding a great option for filling you up, enhancing digestion, and managing weight. 

How To Make It

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 2-4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup flax seeds (whole or ground)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cacao powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Stop blending and scrape down the sides as needed to ensure that you thoroughly blend all the ingredients. 
• Divide the blended mixture between two jars or storage containers and refrigerate for at least one hour. 
• Remove from the fridge and top with fresh fruit, nut butter, or desiccated coconut and enjoy.

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Sometimes, it’s nice to not see a green smoothie, right? Don’t get it twisted, folks, we love greens and you should eat them daily. The base of this smoothie, which only contains six ingredients, is bananas and blueberries. The next ingredients only add healthy fats, protein, fiber, and more nutrients! Chia seeds, ground flaxseed, raw almond butter, and homemade almond milk contribute to a thicker consistency and creamy texture that you’ll love.

You know what’s so great about this smoothie? Besides the fact that it tastes incredible and offers an exceptional nutritional profile, it is more akin to a blueberry milkshake than a blueberry smoothie. Trust us when we say that you may want to enjoy this for breakfast and dessert! Although, maybe avoid drinking this at night because you don’t want the fruit to ferment in your stomach overnight. Because of the healthy fats and protein, this smoothie makes for a great pre- or post-workout smoothie/snack.

Once you have your almond milk made, this smoothie comes together in a matter of minutes. Don’t be afraid to add a little desiccated coconut to the smoothie for a tropical flair. Not only does that coconut elevate the flavor, but it also makes the smoothie more fun and exciting to drink, especially if you want to enjoy it regularly.

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Sometimes, you just need to start your day off with a large green detox smoothie. Maybe you had a hard night out and need to replenish your vitamins and minerals. Whether your liver is in pain or you want to promote detoxification to kick start your weight loss journey in the New Year, this smoothie is for you. It is rich in some seriously nutritious fruits and vegetables that encourage cell health and nourish your organs and systems.

Did you know that every person can have 200 different types of toxins stored in their body? Whether these toxins are from lead in diesel fumes, cleaning chemicals, carbon oxides, pesticides, smog, or manufacturing residues, toxins exist in the body and some of them exist in fat cells. The body actually stores toxins in fat to minimize damage to other cells and organs. The downside to that is that toxins in fat cells can make it more difficult to lose weight. When you consume foods that aid detoxification, though, you can help eliminate waste and weight as a result.

The primary detox ingredients are dark leafy greens, mangos, berries, pineapple, fresh mint, avocado, bananas, flax seeds, and ginger, among many others. For this green detox smoothie, you’ll need a handful of those ingredients, but not all of them. Should you want to get creative and swap out mango for pineapple, please do so. This smoothie is merely a concoction of detoxifying ingredients to help your body. If you develop your own recipe, let us know about it in the comments below!

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Get ready to start snacking in a healthy and delicious way! These raw vegan, dehydrated flax crackers are a different breed of cracker. They are great alternatives to unhealthy, processed snacks because they pack a nutritional and flavorful punch. In fact, they are incredibly rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which aid immune, heart, and brain function.

Flax seeds are naturally rich in lignans, which may reduce the risk of breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. Even though flax seeds boast impressive health benefits, it’s best to wade into their waters when enjoying them initially. The reason for this is because flax seeds may cause bloating if you enjoy too much straight out of the gate. Enjoy small amounts first so that your body can acclimate to thew new ingredient. While you can use whole flax seeds in this recipe, you can also use ground flaxseed for better nutrient digestion. This is really a personal preference and won’t alter the flavor of the crackers.

This recipe is very tasty and involves a lengthy ingredient list. Some of the standout ingredients include nutritional yeast, tomatoes, basil leaves, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and nori sheets. When you buy nori sheets, make sure that they are not roasted or salted in any way, otherwise they aren’t raw vegan. You actually blend every ingredient, except the nori sheets, to create a paste, which you then spread on the nori sheets. The nori imparts a wonderful umami flavor to the crackers, and also provides a sturdy base.

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Isn’t it amazing that something like salted caramel could be transformed into a healthy, raw vegan treat? Yes, yes it is. We love making something as classically unhealthy as salted caramel into a healthy recipe. Not only is there no added sugar in this recipe, but it also contains real fruit and whole natural ingredients. Even the almond milk is homemade! You can get a recipe for the almond milk by clicking here.

The trick to making raw vegan caramel comes down to one ingredient: dates. Dates have a natural caramel-like flavor, so all you need to do to create a salted caramel smoothie is add a few more ingredients into the mix. Now that the caramel flavor is sorted, you need ingredients to bulk up the smoothie. Banana is always an excellent go-to ingredient to make smoothies thick and creamy. Plus, bananas offer a pleasant sweetness that enhances the caramel flavor from the date.

If you want to expand the nutritional profile of this smoothie, you can add a spoonful of raw almond butter. This addition will also add more protein and healthy fats, making the smoothie more filling. It’s completely optional, so you can choose your own destiny. This smoothie also contains a little ground flaxseed, which offers omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and lots of fiber. Using ground flaxseed in a smoothie is better than adding whole flax seeds. The reason for this is because you may not blend up the flax seeds at all, but the ground version is easily incorporate with the rest of the ingredients.

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This week, we’ll be learning the history behind Flax Seeds. Allow History of Herbs to take you on an educational journey to explore the secrets of our most precious herbs and plants. Dive into a world where herbs reign supreme, and learn about the historical importance of popular herbs that exhibit powerful health benefits.

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Summer is nearly here! We’ve been waiting for that warm sunshine for months, and now we can finally embrace outdoor activities, fun in the sun, and new seasonal produce. Don your flip flops, T-shirts, and shorts and get ready to visit the local grocery store or farmer’s market. One of the best summer produce items is basil. Buy the fresh plant that looks healthy and thriving instead of the 10 leaves that supermarkets sell in plastic cases for $5.

Not only does fresh basil smell incredible, but it also tastes amazing. You can blend it into a homemade pesto, add it to pasta sauces, or make this fresh dressing. It is a nut-free, oil-free, raw vegan dressing that goes great on almost any salad. Because the basil exhibits such a strong, signature flavor profile, it goes great with tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, and leafy greens like arugula, Romaine, or kale. But basil isn’t the only ingredient that makes this dressing great.

Flaxseed, or ground flaxseed in the case of this dressing, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which work to encourage optimal heart and brain health. Several studies show that omega-3s also work to reduce inflammation. In addition to the ground flaxseed, this dressing includes fresh garlic cloves, sea salt, granulated onion, and water. That means that this is an oil-free, nut-free dressing, making this an excellent choice for anyone with a nut allergy.

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