Homemade nut butter is just the way to go, folks. You only need two ingredients and a food processor to make a smooth and creamy nut butter that is free of preservatives and other unnecessary ingredients. Unlike store bought brands, this macadamia nut butter is free of palm oil, lectins, peanuts, and added sugars. That means that this nut butter is raw vegan, Whole30-approved, Paleo, grain-free, gluten-free, keto, and sugar-free. The subtle hint of sea salt perfectly complements the robust macadamia nuts.

Is homemade macadamia nut butter better than store bought varieties? While both are great options, making your own allows you to control the ingredients and blend until you reach your desired consistency. Perhaps you enjoy a nut butter that is just between chunky and smooth. Maybe you like nut butter to be velvety smooth, and you can have control over that when you make your own. Plus, homemade macadamia nut butter is nearly identical in price as the store bought version. Depending on which stores you have access to, you may or may not always see macadamia nut butter available. If you find raw macadamia nuts, though, you can transform them into a luxurious butter.

You will need a food processor for this recipe because a blender just won’t cut it. To achieve a smooth nut butter, you will probably have to blend for three to five minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides periodically. Just keep blending, scraping down the sides, and blending again until you achieve a smooth consistency. Once you are satisfied, spoon the butter into a container, seal the lid, and refrigerate. Use when ready.

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If we know one thing about winter, it is that the weather is colder and skin can dry out easily. The constant changing of environments does not do the skin any favors. Being bundled up outside in the cold and then going inside to the warm, dry heat is a recipe for dry skin. Fortunately, you can pamper your skin and bring it back to life with the homemade body butter in this article. It is filled with natural ingredients that help to leave the skin feeling soft, radiant, and supple. 

What’s The Difference Between Body Butter And Lotion?

Both body lotions and body butters work to moisturize the skin below the neck. Each of these skin care products can help soften skin and minimize dryness, but they work differently. The primary difference between lotion and body butter is the texture. While lotion has a higher water content and more liquid consistency, body butter is thicker and creamier. Body butter also tends to have a higher concentration of heavy moisturizers, such as shea butter. Body lotion tends to be formulated with glycerin, or other lightweight hydrators. 

Generally speaking, body butter is ideal for dry or rough skin. The ingredients work to replenish the skin’s natural oils and protect them from stressors that increase irritation or dryness. Below, we’ll detail two ingredients that make this body butter highly nourishing for the skin.

Shea Butter

Shea butter comes from the kernels of shea trees, which are native to sub-Saharan Africa. To this day, most shea butter still comes from this region. Shea butter helps promote hydration because it contains several types of fatty acids, including oleic, linoleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. These work to improve the skin barrier and protect the skin from damaging environmental pollutants. Shea butter also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for nourishing inflamed or upset skin. Additionally, shea butter is thought to offer mild protection from the sun, although it is not a replacement for standard sunscreen. 

Coconut Oil

Promoted for its ability to moisturize dry skin, coconut oil offers many compounds that help improve overall skin health. It exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties when applied topically. Studies have shown that it may help relieve symptoms of atopic dermatitis or eczema, which can cause itchy rash. The anti-inflammatory properties work to improve skin barrier function and prevent moisture loss. And while coconut oil may not be able to remove stretch marks, it is possible that topical application may help reduce their appearance. More research is necessary on that topic, though. 

Whipped Gingerbread Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup raw shea butter
• 1/2 cup coconut oil 
• 1/4 tsp  gingerbread spice
• 4 drops ginger essential oil
• 4 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 2 drops clove essential oil
• 2 drops vanilla essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the shea butter and coconut oil to a heat-safe bowl or measuring cup. Melt the two ingredients in the microwave for one minute. 
• Remove and stir well. If the shea butter and coconut oil are not fully melted, heat in the microwave for an additional 30 seconds. Remove and stir well again to combine.
• Transfer the melted mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. 
• Remove from the refrigerator and use the stand mixer to whip the mixture on high for five minutes. Stop to scrape down the sides every minute and continue blending until you have a light, fluffy cream. 
• Add the gingerbread spice and essential oils and mix on low to incorporate. Spoon the mixture into a jar, cover, and store in the fridge. Use as needed.

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Dieting during the holidays…is it possible? You bet your life! People have this notion that the holiday season is reserved for overeating and drinking excessive amounts at functions, parties, and work events. Plus, letting loose is often a great way to relieve the inevitable holidays stress or pressure from family and friends. That does not mean that you have to succumb to the temptation of endless holiday treats. 

Most people hold emotional attachments to holiday-specific dishes or treats. It is very common to associate these foods with meaningful memories during the holidays. The holidays are well underway, and there is no time like the present to take action. It will be difficult, but we believe that you have the strength to conquer the holidays while adhering to your diet! The following tips may help you dodge the pressure to overindulge. 

Plan Ahead

This rule truly applies to many things in life, but preparation is essential if you want to avoid failure. If you feel that your surroundings influence you easily, make your surroundings more comfortable. In fact, studies suggest that planning ahead and creating a plan can double your chance of success. If you plan to attend a holiday party, bring a healthy appetizer or dish, in addition to a healthy dessert option. When you know you have healthy food options, you will be less likely to overindulge on unhealthy items. If you are going to travel, make sure to plan ahead by bringing healthy snacks. 

Fill Up On Vegetables

Holiday spreads tend to showcase an assortment of carbs, proteins, and high-calorie desserts. Try your best to load up your holiday plate with as many vegetables and fruits as you can. Not only are they naturally rich in various nutrients, but they are also much lower in calories than other dishes. That doesn’t always apply, especially if you eat green bean casserole and candied yams. When we say “veggies,” we mean fruit salads, leafy greens, carrot sticks, and other sautéed root vegetables. 

Prioritize Your Favorites

There are seasonal treats that everyone looks forward to during the holidays. Maybe your vice is a slice of pumpkin pie or grandma’s homemade cinnamon rolls. There is nothing wrong with a small indulgence, but the trick is choosing the things you truly want to enjoy. If you say “yes” to everything, you are not doing yourself, or your diet efforts, any favors. Use this time of year as an opportunity to prioritize what you love and be strategic about it. That is especially true if you line up at the holiday buffet!

Track Your Calories And Macros

This sounds like an unpleasant chore, but you should keep track of your food intake because treats and alcohol are aplenty this time of year. It is very easy to go overboard with food, but paying attention to how much you consume is the best way to hold yourself accountable. When you input the information into your calorie counter, the results may surprise you. Small indulgences, such as a peppermint mocha latte, can affect your weekly average. Track your daily intake and use weekly averages to help determine whether you are sticking to your diet or not. Don’t punish yourself if you go a little overboard; rather, do your best to get back on the horse and meet your daily goals starting the following day. 

Remember Your “Why”

Weight loss motivation is more powerful than you realize. Remembering why you started your diet in the first place may be all it takes to keep holiday eating in check. If you have a support system, lean on them because they may help you remember why you started your weight loss journey. Remembering your “why” doesn’t mean that you have to eat perfectly. It will, however, remind you to either exercise or balance your indulgence with some healthier options. Change is very difficult, especially in regards to eating habits, and you have to work constantly to maintain your diet. Don’t give up on yourself just because you encounter some obstacles. You are strong and can make the necessary changes to maintain your diet this holiday season.

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Sometimes, money is tight and you cannot afford to buy elaborate gifts for everyone. If you have a little determination and a love for all things DIY, then you can make some very cool homemade beauty gifts. Not only are these more inexpensive, but they are often more heartfelt and personal than a T-shirt or vest. 

This holiday season, you can create a luxurious body wash that makes you smell like Christmas cookies. Fair warning: we do not take responsibility for anyone who tries to take a bite out of their shoulder or other body part. You may smell like cookies, but resist the urge to eat yourself! 

Normally, when you have a body wash that smells so strongly, it typically contains problematic ingredients. One of those ingredients is methylisothiazolinone, which can irritate the skin, lungs, eyes, and cause immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Another toxic ingredient is lilial, which is a known endocrine disruptor. Many popular skin care products that have fun scents usually contain ingredients that receive terrible ratings from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Not the recipe in this article, though! You can learn more about the ingredients in our Christmas cookie body wash below. 

Almond Oil

Almond oil is an emollient, meaning it is excellent for soothing dryness or irritation. Emollients form a film on the skin’s outermost layer, which helps enhance the skin barrier. Almond oil, and other emollients, attract moisture to the skin, prevent the loss of moisture, and help soften scaly or irritated skin. Because it is lightweight and non-irritating, almond oil is generally safe for sensitive skin. It can also help manage chronic skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne. 

Vegetable Glycerin

Used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, vegetable glycerin helps improve hydration, relieve constipation, and moisturize the skin. Also known as glycerol or glycerine, vegetable glycerin is a clear liquid made from coconut, soybean, or palm oils. It is popular in skin care products because it has moisturizing properties. According to research, applying vegetable glycerin to the skin can improve smoothness and supplements. Some studies found that using creams containing glycerin increased hydration in as little as 10 days. 

Essential Oils

In order to create that addictive Christmas cookie aroma, you will need a few essential oils. When purchasing essential oils, make sure that you get organic, pure varieties. You do not want diluted essential oils or oils that have other ingredients. Pure essential oils can play a significant role in supporting the overall health of the skin. Many of them exhibit diverse healing and antioxidant properties, but the key to benefitting from those properties is with proper usage. Make sure to properly dilute essential oils in carrier oils to prevent irritation or reactions. Always do a small patch test to avoid complications.

Christmas Cookie Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons almond oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin 
• 1 cup castile soap
• 20 drops ginger essential oil
• 15 drops lemon essential oil
• 15 drops vanilla botanical extract
• 8 drops nutmeg essential oil
• 8 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 6 clove essential oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to an eight-ounce amber glass bottle in the order in which they are listed. 
• Screw on the lid and shake well to combine. Use when ready. Make sure that you shake well before each use, as the ingredients can often separate. 

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Get ready for one of the best raw vegan treats we’ve ever published on this website. Not only is it very easy to make, but it also has a highly addictive flavor that may replace sugar in your recipes! This raw vegan date caramel is naturally sweet and creamy, as it is made from pureed dates, homemade almond milk, sea salt, and vanilla extract. After blending the ingredients in a food processor until smooth, the result is a delightful alternative to traditional caramel. We don’t recommend that you eat the entire recipe in one sitting, but we will say that it is a somewhat healthy option for those who have a sweet tooth.

The process is simple: add pitted Medjool dates, homemade almond milk, sea salt, and vanilla extract to a food processor and blend until smooth and luscious. You should end up with a thick, almost paste-like texture that can drizzle over desserts. You can also use it as a dip or enjoyed straight from the jar. This indulgent treat is not only a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth but also packed with nutrients, speaking of which:

• A single serving of dates contains about seven grams of fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate bowel movements. These benefits can help you avoid constipation.
• Dates are naturally sweet and can replace refined sugars in many recipes, which makes them a healthier, more nutritious option if you have a sweet tooth.
• Because dates have a naturally high sugar content (including fructose, glucose, and sucrose), they provide a quick energy boost. That makes dates an ideal snack for anyone who needs a quick pick-me-up.
• Due to their potassium and magnesium content, dates are beneficial for heart health. Researchers note that dates work to regulate blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels.

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If you are a fan of hot styling tools, such as flat irons, blow dryers, and curling irons, it’s time you learn about heat protectants. Although those hair styling products can do wonders for your look, they can damage your hair and cause breakage. That is why we want to turn you on to heat protectants, which can help your hair look its absolute best. 

What Is A Heat Protectant?

A heat protectant is what we like to call a superhero hair product. It works to shield the hair from the heat of hair styling tools. It usually contains a formulation of ingredients, which create a barrier between your hair and the heat. That helps reduce the amount of damage that can result from higher temperatures. Plus, some heat protectants contain ingredients that also nourish the hair, helping to to lock in moisture, prevent dryness, and contribute to optimal shine.

Why Should You Use A Heat Protectant?

By using a heat protectant, you can help prevent damage to hair caused by high heat. Heat styling tools can reach temperatures of up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, which causes brittleness and dryness. Using a heat protectant can help reduce the amount of heat that the hair absorbs, which ultimately keeps it healthier. Heat protectants may also contribute to shinier hair. Protect your hair’s natural moisture and keep it lively with the following heat protectant recipes. 

DIY Heat Protectant Cream With Shea Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup shea butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons refined avocado oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Combine the melted shea butter and avocado oil in a small mixing bowl. Allow it to cool completely. 
• Use an electric hand mixer to whip it until it is light and fluffy. Add the lavender essential oil and continue to mix for another 10 seconds or so. 
• Spoon the mixture into a dark glass jar to help preserve the properties of the essential oil. 
• Use this cream sparingly, as it is very rich. Store in a cool, dry place. 

DIY Heat Protectant Spray With Coconut Oil

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
• 4 drops almond oil
• 1 tablespoon silicone conditioner

Instructions:

• Use a funnel to pour the water into a spray bottle. Pour the coconut oil into the same bottle, followed by the almond oil. 
• Screw on the lid and shake well. Carefully transfer the conditioner to the same bottle, screw on the lid, and shake well to combine. 
• The ingredients may separate, so just remember to shake well before each use. Work the spray through your hair with your fingers or a comb before styling your hair. 

DIY Heat Protectant Spray With Argan Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup argan oil
• Oil mister spray bottle
• Funnel 

Instructions:

• This recipe is very simple, in that it only contains argan oil. We recommend that you get an oil mister spray bottle, as a normal spray bottle will get clogged. The oil mister is essential for even application. 
• Lightly spray the oil on the ends of your hair and apply a small amount to a brush or comb, which you will use to brush your hair from the roots to tips. 
• If your hair requires more oil, then repeat the process. Style as desired and then store the oil in a cool, dry place for up to six months. 

DIY Heat Protectant Spray With Aloe Vera

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup distilled water
• 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
• 6-8 drops olive oil

Instructions:

• Use a funnel to pour the distilled water into a spray bottle. Add the aloe vera and olive oil, screw on the top, and shake well to combine. 
• Use the spray as a natural and inexpensive heat protectant. As a bonus, aloe vera can help repair dead skin cells on the scalp, which may reduce itchy scalp and dandruff.

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Taste the flavors of fall in this unique spiced orange cranberry smoothie! The spices are aromatic and perfectly complement the tartness of cranberries, sweetness of pear, and acidity of fresh oranges. Although this smoothie only contains fruit, it packs a serious nutritional punch. It offers lots of antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, healthy fats, and protein. Because of the impressive nutrient content, this is a great smoothie to enjoy post-holiday meal. It really helps kickstart the digestive process after the big holiday feast!

If you have frozen cranberries, you can use them instead of fresh cranberries. That said, fresh cranberries have a limited window of availability in grocery stores, so we encourage you to get your hands on them while they are in stores. Save some other cranberries for a homemade cranberry sauce (click here for recipe). What we don’t want you to do, however, is use frozen orange juice from concentrate. You need freshly squeezed orange juice, but you also need to peel an orange, separate the segments, and freeze overnight. This will enhance that orange flavor in your smoothie.

Since there are some tart flavors in this smoothie, feel free to add some raw agave nectar or maple syrup for sweetness. If you use a ripe pear, though, the natural sugars will help balance the tart cranberries and oranges. Please enjoy this refreshing and unique smoothie that represents autumn to a T!

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Get your fall palate ready because your taste buds are about to go crazy for this delightful homemade vegan pear butter. This is a smooth and creamy spread that captures the essence of fall in every spoonful. It goes great on toast, mixed into yogurt, or as a topping for pancakes. You can even incorporate some into your chia pudding or overnight oats. It’s a simple yet luxurious treat crafted from ripe pears, which you simmer slowly with warming cinnamon and sweetened to perfection with maple syrup.

What you end up with is a velvety butter that is not only delicious, but also versatile. This vegan and naturally sweetened pear butter is a great way to preserve the flavors of fall, utilizing seasonal pears, which are not a prominent ingredient in a lot of recipes. Pears are great to enjoy raw in salads and smoothies, but you can also cook them down. You just want to use ripe pears to avoid a tart flavor. By eating pears, you can reap some of their impressive health benefits, which include:

• Pears are naturally rich in dietary fiber, which is an essential nutrient for optimal digestion. Researchers note that a high-fiber diet can help maintain healthy weight, lower cholesterol levels, and prevent constipation.
• Pears contain flavonoids and vitamin C, which are antioxidants that work to combat oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants work to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, in addition to benefitting immune function and cell health.
• According to researchers, regular pear consumption has been associated with improved heart function. The fiber content of pears, in addition to the antioxidant properties, works to support healthy cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, two things that reduce the risk of heart disease.

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Every year, there is a long list of things to be grateful for, and that is especially true at Thanksgiving. Perhaps you got a new job or your sister agreed to babysit your child once a week so that you and your partner can have date night. One of the things you can be thankful for is your health. 

It’s no secret that people tend to get a little carried away, to put it gently, at the Thanksgiving spread. By staying mindful of your health and making small tweaks, however, you can create a healthier Thanksgiving feast. Not only will your dishes be incredibly tasty, but they’ll pack some more nutritional benefits than your average options. Whether you are hosting, showing up, or assisting in the kitchen, use the following tips to make your holiday weekend a little healthier. 

Eat Slowly And Savor Each Bite

It is very easy to move quickly during the holiday excitement of Thanksgiving Day. During mealtime, you may shovel food into your face in order to make room on your plate for the items you didn’t get during your first pass of the spread. While eating, health experts recommend that you slow down and enjoy the food on your plate. It’s easy to fill up too quickly if you do not allow your body the chance to process the calories that you’re consuming. It takes 20 minutes for the brain to realize that you are full. Between bites, consider speaking with a loved one and talk about how great the meal is. Additionally, drink lots of water to aid the digestive process.

Moderate Your Meal

There is so much great food to enjoy! How do you only select a couple things to eat? Well, the good news is that you do not have to miss out on your favorite dishes. Instead, dietitians encourage you to help yourself to controlled portions that will discourage overeating. If you are hungry after you finish your plate, you can have an additional serving or two later. When you build your plate, include whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables. Try to leave carb-heavy dishes alone, or grab small portions of them just to have a taste. If you want a specific dessert, avoid overeating sugary side dishes to control sugar intake. 

Enjoy A Little Exercise

Pre-meal walk, anyone? Physical activity on the big day of feasting is beneficial for your cardiovascular health, but also for digestion. Studies indicate that walking for 30 minutes after you eat can stimulate the digestive process. Between courses, try to go on a walk with your dog, do some light yoga, play catch outside, or do some squats. Walking for two to five minutes post-meal can help lower blood sugar levels. Exercise also burns calories, which you will consume in excess on Thanksgiving. 

Avoid Processed Foods

How easy and convenient is it to take shortcuts in the kitchen when cooking the Thanksgiving meal? By shortcuts, we mean purchasing store bought varieties of things that you can easily make at home. Instead of grabbing a can of cranberry sauce, make your own with real cranberries, fresh oranges, and a lot less sugar. Click here for a healthy cranberry sauce recipe. Even if you can’t make everything from scratch, do your best to avoid processed versions of things, as homemade elements are also more nutritious.

Consider How You Cook

When you prepare your turkey and sides, be mindful of the seasonings and cooking methods you use. Beware of excess amounts of sugar, salt, and oil, as they can negatively impact the food’s nutritional value. That is especially true if you struggle with high cholesterol, obesity, or diabetes. Instead of deep-frying your food, consider roasting, grilling, or boiling your food to keep the meal a little healthier. Lastly, set seasonings and sauces on the table so that people can manage their health to their desired level of comfort.

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Dried cranberries make for an excellent snack. Unfortunately, the dried cranberries that you find in stores almost always contain lots of refined sugars, unhealthy oils, and preservatives. These types of dried cranberries are common in salads, trail mixes, and dried fruit medleys. We advise you to avoid these sugary treats and buy some fresh cranberries to dehydrate instead. Plus, nothing quite indicates the holiday season like fresh cranberries, which are only available in stores for about two months.

These dehydrated cranberries may not taste as sweet as the packaged ones you are used to; rather, they offer a more complex and slightly tarter flavor. Plus, you get the benefits of enjoying fresh cranberries in their dehydrated state. Cranberries are some of the richest sources of antioxidants and provide lots of fiber and vitamin C as well. Regarding their antioxidant profile, cranberries provide the following:

• Peonidin: This antioxidant is responsible for the rich red color of cranberries and some of their health benefits. According to researchers, cranberries are one of the richest dietary sources of peonidin.
• Quercetin: This is the most prevalent antioxidant polyphenol in cranberries. Studies suggest that cranberries are one of the primary fruit sources of this antioxidant compound.
• Ursolic acid: Ursolic acid, a triterpene compound, is concentrated in the skin of cranberries. It is a common ingredient in many traditional herbal medicines and exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
• Myricetin: This is a natural bioflavonoid that offers antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-mutagenic properties. It may have therapeutic potential for people with cardiovascular diseases.

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