Healthy Bitch Daily

Portobello Pesto Sliders

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Think Mushrooms Are Only Good For Hallucinogenic Fun? Think Again.

Who doesn't love a plate of sliders?

This veggie version does the trick whether it's for Friday night company or date night in...

What You Need

3 tablespoons spicy or Dijon mustard
1/4 cup packed basil leaves
5 tablespoons Italian dressing divided make your own with the recipe on this page
4 medium portobello mushrooms stemmed about 1 pound
2 large red bell peppers cored and quartered lengthwise
1 medium sweet onion sliced 1/2-inch thick
4 small hoagie rolls split

How to Make It

Blend mustard basil and 2 tablespoons of dressing in a food processor or blender. Grill and turn mushrooms peppers and onion over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes brushing mushrooms with remaining 3 tablespoons of dressing. Layer vegetables on bottom of rolls. Drizzle with basil mixture. Cover with top of rolls. Enjoy!

Want more recipes like this one? Browse through our entire library of vegan recipes and search by keyword to find something yummy!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor
An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

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What The Hell Do I Buy? Cleanse

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:00:00 -0800

'Cause Your Body Needs an Oil Change Every Now and Then

Cleansing is trendy these days.

Who hasn’t seen a co-worker chugging that nasty lemon juice-cayenne pepper-maple syrup crap?

Starving yourself is one option but we believe in feeding our bodies solid foods thankyouverymuch. Plus who has time to juice fast when you've got a client meeting a sick kid or any other kind of commitment that requires uh energy?

Oil Change

Our bodies are able to eliminate most toxins naturally but sometimes a girl needs a helping hand. You accumulate toxins from the food you eat the products you put on your skin the medications you take and even the air you breathe. If this crap gets stuck in your body and starts messing with your shit water retention premature aging cancer and even obesity can ensue. Yep toxins contribute to the extra junk in your trunk. The body attacks toxins by sequestering and diluting toxins with fat so as toxin levels rise so do fat levels.

Cleanse Benefits

Throughout history humans have turned to cleansing for both physical and spiritual reasons. Today we know that cleanses can have many health benefits: increased energy improved mood weight loss fewer colds and less sinus congestion clearer skin and reduced menstrual pain. You might even want to try a liver cleanse to ramp up your sex life — a healthy liver is essential for a strong libido. Meow.

Cleanse Risks

So what can’t a cleanse do? For starters it’s not going to help you lose 10 pounds in a week. And if it does it’s dangerous and unhealthy. Steer clear of any cleanse that makes wildly outlandish claims restricts you to liquids only or doesn’t let you have any protein. If you’re not getting protein your body will consume the protein in your muscles which can diminish your muscle mass and mess up your metabolism.

What's worse? Many cleanses on the market severely deprive the body of the nutrients it needs to function. Some colon cleanses work by drawing fluid into the colon from surrounding tissues. This can create an imbalance of electrolytes like sodium chloride potassium magnesium and phosphorous. And that kind of imbalance can put you in danger of dehydration and low blood sugar.

Options Baby

Always check with a medical professional before beginning a cleanse as even some herbal cleanses can cause allergic reactions. And be sure to drink plenty of water. All of the cleanses below are designed to be combined with a healthy organic diet. That means no booze caffeine or tons of sugar missy.

Kaeng Raeng. Our favorite cleanse on the market this all-natural non-GMO gluten-free detox program will help remove toxins bolster your immune system and improve your digestive health. It's one of the highest-quality cleanses available so you know you're getting the good stuff. 64.99 at kaengraeng.com

Renew Life First Cleanse. Designed for first-time cleansers it’s made of 29 organic whole herbs which are gentler than the herbal extracts found in the line’s more advanced cleanses. It's 15 days and consists of two pills in the morning and two pills at night. Vegetarian capsules support normal cleansing and organ detox. I’ve been doing this cleanse for the past seven years and love it. 26.99 at renewlife.com

Garden of Life Raw Cleanse. Vegan and raw this cleanse works by stopping toxins in the mouth drawing them from organs and then removing them from the liver through digestion and elimination. One packet mixed with water in the morning some capsules with breakfast and lunch and another packet mixed with water at night. 29 at luckyvitamin.com

Flor Essence Tea Beginner 30-Day Cleanse. A blend of eight herbs this tonic originated from a formula used by medicine men from the Ojibwa tribe in Canada for generations. The Native American cure was turned into a healing tonic by a nurse in the 1920s. Today it's available in several forms including a tea taken twice a day for 30 days. 92 at floressencetea.com

The Verdict

Pros: Safe convenient cleansing that won’t disrupt your lifestyle or starve you.

Cons: Because these detox programs are extremely gentle results may not be immediately apparent.

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications she does sales marketing writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics detoxing at the co-op scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

Rags to Riches

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 06:00:00 -0800

How One Woman is Bringing Veganism Yoga and Hope to Africa's Poorest Communities

Sometimes we meet people who remind us to stop bitching about our lives.

Amidst unemployment factory farming poverty global warming and all the other awful shit going on in the world there are still people who believe change is possible.

Paige Elenson is one of those people.

Africa Yoga Project

In 2007 Paige moved to Africa where she created the Africa Yoga Project an organization that employs local Kenyan youth to teach yoga classes in their own communities. In a country where millions live on less than 2 a day and unemployment rates are at nearly 50 percent this is no small feat.

The project takes youth from a life in the slums literally to a life of empowerment and liberation. Paige teaches lifestyle tools such as adopting a vegan diet and learning power yoga to more than 3000 students per week -- at no cost to them. Most of these individuals are struggling to survive living in unstable environments and have little food to eat.

New York to Nairobi

A native New Yorker and former Wall Street consultant Paige seems an unlikely candidate for life in one of the poorest areas of Africa but as I accompanied her on the bumpy dirt roads outside Nairobi to visit a school she had built it was clear from the joy in her eyes that she is living her dharma and not looking back.

Philanthropy in Practice

Her school was filled with a swarm of giddy children awaiting their weekly yoga class. In a room smaller than most American bedrooms they stood on tattered mats that had been donated from around the world.

At one point a little girl rose up to teach part of the class. As she spoke with the poise and command of a seasoned professional calling out updogs and downdogs like nobody's business I realized that she would grow up with the grace confidence and skills to express herself that every little girl deserves.

Inspiration Time

Becoming healthy -- both in mind and body -- isn’t always an easy path. When we become conscious of our choices we also become painfully aware of what's still broken. A new vegan feels discouraged in a family of meat-eaters. An overweight mom realizes how hard it is to squeeze in time for exercise. A hopeful environmentalist gets discouraged by the reality of disappearing rainforests.

In the slums of Africa people like Paige remind us of one core truth about personal transformation and social change: no pain no gain.

Following our dreams whether they're big or small is often the most radical and fabulous thing we can do with our time on this planet. It's the greatest gift we can give ourselves and others. If you need some further inspiration you can volunteer in Kenya with Paige or support Africa Yoga Project by visiting www.africayogaproject.org.

Like this article? Tell us in the comments section below!

Beth Doane Contributing Writer
Beth is a fashion designer author and environmentalist who went from launching high-end European fashion lines to creating her own philanthropic fashion collection Rain Tees. Her line of tees funds school supplies for children in Central and South America and plants a tree in a tropical rainforest for every item sold. Beth’s consulting agency Andira International helps brands build sustainable ideas into products events and campaigns. Visit raintees.com for more information.

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Are You SAD?

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

You Might Have Seasonal Affective Disorder

You're depressed moody and just can’t get your butt out of bed.

It’s not time for a visit from your monthly friend things are great at work and your boyfriend is behaving. So what the hell is going on?

Winter Blues

You may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder SAD a form of depression that strikes when Old Man Winter rears his ugly head. SAD affects women more than men and it can start in the teens or early adulthood. People who live in areas where winter is long and days are short are at greater risk as are those that have a family history of SAD. Thanks Mom!

It's rare but some people even experience SAD in the spring and early summer. And no we’re not referring to the sinking feeling you get when you don a bikini for the first time in eight months.

SAD Symptoms

Symptoms of SAD are very similar to those of depression but they usually build up slowly in the fall and winter months. Common symptoms include:

- Feeling sad grumpy or anxious
- A constant craving for carbs and not suprisingly weight gain
- Being tired during the day even after 9-10 hours of sleep
- Losing interest in your usual activities
- Wanting to be alone which shouldn’t be a problem since you're probably acting like an irritable bitch to your friends and fam

What Causes SAD?

The answer is that no one really knows. The prevailing theory is that lack of sunlight affects your circadian rhythms as well as your level of the feel-good hormone serotonin. Your hormones sleep-wake cycle and melatonin levels are all affected by winter's longer nights and gray skies.

I Want to be Happy

The good news for SAD sufferers is that a number of treatments can help banish the blues. One easy option is light treatment which entails sitting in front of a special light box that mimics outdoor light. The only downside to light therapy is that you have to do it every single day for the entire winter season to prevent the depression from returning. Other treatments for SAD include antidepressants counseling and morning exercise. What else can you do? Eat right exercise and try to avoid happy hour -- alcohol and other "downers" can send SAD sufferers even further down the depression bunny hole.

SAD can be a serious disorder so make sure to visit your doc if you can't kick the winter blues with some simple behavioral/lifestyle changes.

Have you ever suffered from seasonal depression? How did you cope? Let us know in the comments section below!

Susan Emmer FOOD Feature Editor
Susan is an eco-lifestyle expert certified whole health educator and refugee from the corporate media world. Earning an environmental studies degree before green was the new black Susan is the owner of Farmacy Agency a sustainability marketing social media and PR firm. Susan works hard to keep her two dogs in the life they’ve grown accustomed to and dreams of someday living on a ranch. Follow her on Twitter wellnewsnetwork.

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Slow Beauty

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Are Products and Potions The Answer to Aging Beautifully? We Think Not.

It’s time to give the mainstream beauty industry a swift kick in the ass.

For more years than we can count they’ve been telling us we’re not good enough. Our skin's not tight our teeth aren't white and our boobs most certainly need to be bigger.

But that’s OK – they've got a product pill or procedure that will help.

As a result of this assault on natural beauty our culture has a fanatical obsession with youth. We’re fighting aging with the same fervor that we’re fighting poverty drugs or terrorism.

What does this war-like approach to obliterating imperfections with products do to a modern gal? It makes loving herself a bitch.

Slow Beauty

You’ve heard of the Slow Food movement. Now we’d like to introduce you to Slow Beauty – the idea that joy spontaneity love authenticity and inner peace are the hallmarks of beauty. Shel Pink founder of SpaRitual and pioneer of the Slow Beauty movement is inspiring women to slow down shed the crap and make lifestyle choices that help cultivate true beauty from the inside out.

Here are Shel's seven “outposts” of slow beauty. Her advice? Visit them often kick off your heels and stay awhile.

Spa Tradition. Visit the spa on a regular basis. Stress reduction and relaxation not only make you feel good but they keep you healthy. About 46 percent of Americans still believe the spa is about pampering and indulgence. We call bullshit. Spa treatments have proven health benefits like lowering your blood pressure and relieving anxiety. Schedule that massage and don’t think twice about it.

Meditation. This is the secret ingredient to a youthful and radiant appearance. Studies have shown that a regular meditation practice can help you look 7-13 years younger. Think you don’t have time for zen? Swap five minutes of TV for meditation every day. It adds up.

Nourished Mind. Cultivate a passion for learning and pursuing your interests. Nourishing your inner life your mind and your soul will increase your ability to engage in the world and your relationships in a deeper more meaningful way.

Renewal. That whole “your body is your temple” cliché is true. Listen to the natural rhythms of your body and give it the rest and attention it requires. Seasonal cleanses sleep and nourishing food are your best friends.

Self-Expression. Madonna said it best: express yourself. Practice your personal art whether it’s singing in the shower gardening or running marathons. It will increase your creativity and boost your self-confidence.

Mindful Consumption. Read labels educate yourself and consume mindfully. There are wonderful brands out there that actually care about you and the planet. Support them. Minimize your ecological footprint and you'll feel lighter.

Rituals. Expand your beauty routine beyond products lotions and potions. Incorporate ancient healing traditions into your daily routine like those that come from ayurveda or Native American culture. Light candles sing dance naked or pray -- whatever floats your boat babe.

To learn how to incorporate Slow Beauty into your life visit Shel’s blog Slow Beauty.com when it launches on March 21 at 7:21 p.m. the vernal equinox. Together we can usher in a new era of beauty.

What bugs you about the mainstream beauty industry? Leave us your rants in the comments section below!

Shel Pink Guest Blogger
Shel captured the attention of the spa industry when she founded SpaRitual in 2004 launching a brand that fuses the mind body and spirit connection with healing spa traditions. Keeping in mind the ideals of conscious beauty and sustainability issues Shel has led the brand developing a collection of eco-friendly products.Decades before a holistic lifestyle became mainstream an organic diet the importance of regular massage alternative healing and minimizing exposure to toxins in the environment were emphasized by Shel’s mother. Continuing on this holistic path Shel discovered yoga meditation and Ayurveda while attending college and maintains the practice to this day. Shel’s previous professional endeavors included a stint at Motown Records photography art director co-founder of the clothing brand LOBA and Orly executive.

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Bean-Free Cauliflower Hummus

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Beans Get the Boot With This Gluten-Free Hummus

Get your veggies and essential fatty acids in one fell swoop...

What You Need

1 large head cauliflower chopped about 3 cups
1 small white onion diced
1 scallion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1/2 cup fresh basil finely chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup vegetable broth
1/6 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed white pepper
2 teaspoon flax oil we like Barlean's
2 tablespoons flax seeds

How to Make It

Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender. Process until smooth; remove and transfer to a serving dish. Serve atop a salad or as a dip with gluten-free crackers and crudites. Enjoy!

Want more recipes like this one? Browse through our vegan recipes to find something yummy!

Amie Valpone Nutritionist and Personal Chef

The gal behind The Healthy Apple Amie Valpone HHC AADP is a Manhattan-based culinary nutritionist specializing in gluten-free "clean" eating. Amie is also a personal chef spending time with clients as a Food Allergy Concierge and Pantry Stylist in the big apple of Manhattan and publisher of the all-new gluten-free online magazine Easyeats.com.

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Drunk Fish Dead Fish

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Fish Are Acting Drunk Confused and Showing Up Dead All Over the World. What Gives?

Our fish friends are in deep shit.

If you think breathing the nasty crap in our air from pollution is bad try swimming in it.

Rising carbon dioxide CO2 emissions appear to be affecting sea fish in a big-ass way: Some species can't smell hear or change directions in order to avoid predators the way they used to.

Marine Research

For several years a team at James Cook University has been studying fish who live in waters with high levels of CO2. Their groundbreaking research has recently shown that key neurotransmitters in fishes’ brains are negatively altered in this kind of highly-acidic environment.

Drunk and Crazy

What's so bad about a few loose-cannon neurons? Scientists say the fish are acting flat-out drunk and crazy -- they can’t remember to avoid dangerous places or carry out the most basic survival patterns like sticking together in a school. What’s worse? Baby fish seem to be the most vulnerable to these hazardous conditions.

Let’s do the math: dead babies = endangered species.

Blame the People

Where do humans come in? Rising CO2 levels are directly linked to industrial emissions automobiles deforestation and the combustion of fossil fuels - all that fun shit.

About 2.3 billion tons of human CO2 emissions are dissolved into the ocean every year. This crapload of pollution is drastically changing the chemical environment of the sea and threatening many species of marine life. While we may be a long way from shutting down factory farms and switching everyone to electric cars we can make a difference to help our ocean creatures. Here are some ways you can reduce CO2 emissions and save our shiny pretty fish friends:

1. Recycle. Recycling aluminum cans glass bottles and newspapers can reduce your CO2 emissions by up to 850 pounds a year.

2. Unplug. If you ain’t using it unplug it. Unplugging all your appliances that aren’t in use can reduce a typical household’s emissions by 10 percent.

3. Walk. Walk carpool or use public transit. Seriously. There’s no excuse to be lazy about this anymore.

4. Don’t eat meat. Factory farming produces around 90 million tons of CO2 every year - another reason to ditch the meat if you haven't already.

5. Banish bottled water. Bottled water has a huge carbon footprint. Get a BPA-free Nalgene and call it a day girl.

6. Use cold water. OK maybe not in the shower but your ass can wash dishes or do laundry without piping-hot H2O. Even swapping just one hot wash for a cold one helps.

7. Avoid plastic bags. You really don’t need to put produce or any other stuff for that matter in a plastic bag when you go grocery shopping. Just bring a separate cloth bag for your fruits and veggies and you could reduce your CO2 emissions by 5 percent a year.

What do you do to reduce your carbon footprint? Give us your ideas in the comments section below!

Mara Tyler Managing Editor of HealthyBitchDaily.com

Mara Tyler is a health and wellness die-hard with a penchant for sarcasm. A former public relations and marketing professional she's helped grow bleeding-heart health and fitness startups into successful companies with the wave of her magic wand. When she’s not berating her friends for eating Big Macs or preaching to her family about the wonders of green smoothies she can be found reading bad chick lit scouting out new indie bands or attempting to find bliss in yoga. Mara lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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Do You Acupuncture?

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Heal Yourself The Holistic Way

Dr. Steve Bae medical director of YB Clinic Los Angeles Acupuncture is proud to help us stay healthy bitches.

We picked his brain for some awesome health tips and remedies as well as information about holistic healing with acupuncture.

“Eat locally whenever you can” says Dr. Bae. “How long a food takes to get from the farm to the table is extremely important. Vital nutrients are lost during a veggie’s journey. More time on the road means less nutrients once it reaches your plate. Eating local organic foods in conjunction with the holistic healing of acupuncture will increase your energy levels lower your stress and make you feel terrific overall.”

Stick needles in me you say? Attach cups too? Don’t run away screaming just yet. Not only can acupuncture and cupping help you lose weight and relieve stress but it’s also especially helpful for problems associated with back pain a condition that slows down many of us on a daily basis. If you suffer from chronic back pain you may have wondered if acupuncture and cupping is an effective i.e. not hokey form of therapy. For people just like you Beverly Hills back pain acupuncture and holistic healing provider YB Clinic aims to educate the public about the connection between acupuncture and pain management.

Following a series of treatments with Dr. Bae and his team your arthritic pain or other chronic aches should be significantly reduced.

Imagine going about your day without pain making you a tired and cranky mess.

The YB Clinic also accepts many forms of insurance so the cost to you could be minimal.

And now HBD readers from Los Angeles who “Like” the YB Clinic on Facebook and comment on this post will be entered to win one free cupping therapy and one free liver detox treatment.

The YB Clinic is located in Beverly Hills and Downtown Los Angeles. If you don’t live in Los Angeles you can “Like” the YB Clinic on Facebook for access to tips and information. Ask Dr. Bae direct questions about Chinese medicine or any issues you’re having!

To learn more about the YB Clinic visit their website. Los Angeles residents: Be sure to become a fan on Facebook and comment on the post below for your chance to win free treatments!

Make sure to leave a comment below for a chance to win! Contest ends January 31 2012 at 11:59PM PST.

Update: We've chosen our winner! Congrats Lora!

Today’s post is proudly sponsored by

Snack Time

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Need Some New Vegan Snack Ideas? Yeah We Thought So.

You keep whining about wanting more recipes.

We hear you. So we asked Veronica Bosgraaf owner of Pure Bar and smokin' hot mompreneur to help a bitch out.

Snack Secrets

It can be tough to dream up new snack ideas whether it's for the kiddos or your monthly dinner parties. And if you’re like us you love sneaking in vegan snacks to wow unsuspecting carnivores with how flavorful and satisfying meat-free treats can be. For the newbies and the die-hards here are two of Veronica's simple and delicious recipes that you can whip up in less than 15 minutes:

Pesto Tortilla Pizza

Mmm... pine nuts. These blend perfectly with the tart flavorful tomatoes in this simple recipe. Tortillas are the perfect thin and crunchy pizza crust. Let your creative juices flow with different toppings of your choice!

What You Need

1 package small flour tortillas the 5-inch tortillas work well
1 jar basil pesto or make your own with this fabulous recipe
1 jar sun-dried tomatoes
1 package pine nuts or about 1 cup
Olive oil for drizzling

How to Make It

Spread each tortilla with pesto top with 3 sun-dried tomatoes and sprinkle with pine nuts. Bake on a cookie sheet for 10 minutes at 350 degrees or until tortilla is crispy. Drizzle with olive oil before serving. Makes up to about 10 mini pizzas.

Jicama with Roasted Red Pepper Hummus and Dulse

This recipe is one of our favs because it proves that you don’t need meat butter cream sugar or salt to make a flavorful and hearty snack. Plus how many people have even heard of jicama? It's a great alternative to crackers and sounds exotic so it will help you one-up that food snob bitch at your next book club meeting.

What You Need

1 jicama peeled and sliced into cracker-size pieces
1 container of roasted red pepper hummus or make your own
1 package dulse seaweed leaves most natural food stores will carry this
Cayenne pepper

How to Make It

Spoon a dollop of hummus on each jicama slice. Top with a dulse leaf and sprinkle with cayenne pepper. Makes about 12 single servings.

Want more snack ideas? Browse through our vegan recipes section!

Veronica Bosgraaf Guest Blogger
In 2006 Veronica Bosgraaf founded a company born out of a desire to feed her family right. The trigger came when her oldest daughter declared herself a vegetarian at the age of 6 propelling Veronica into the kitchen to create healthy balanced vegetarian fare. A result of this newfound creativity was Pure Bar: a wholesome snack bar packed with vegan protein that her children actually thought was a treat. As a recipe developer Veronica has created dozens of healthy simple recipes for newsletters blogs and television appearances. As a writer she has contributed to The Wellness Advisor magazine and the book "Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged." When she's not busy being a mom/wife or running her company Veronica likes to paddleboard practice yoga and play the piano. Follow Veronica on Facebook or on Twitter thepurebar.

Sugar Sugar

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

It's Time to Manage Your Sugar Addiction Sweetcheeks

Damn that sweet tooth.

As the stores start rolling out all that Valentine’s Day crap the urge for candy becomes like an itch you can't scratch.

But you’re no fool.

You know that sugar rots your teeth and sends your blood sugar on one hell of a ride.

Still humans needs sugar like a car needs gasoline. In fact it's your body's preferred source of energy. So if sugar is necessary why does it get such a bad rap?

Sweet Sensations

Sugar comes into your body in the form of carbohydrates. That’s right say it with me: carbs = sugar. Any carbohydrate is a sugar whether it's starchy vegetables non-dairy milks beans even tofu and hummus fruit or grains. It's no wonder carb-free diets seem restricting. You can't eat shit.

Modern Sugar

Today we consume sugar that has little or no resemblance to a nutrient-rich natural form. We’ve got GMOs chemically-produced artificial sweeteners and highly-processed carbs which rob the body of vitamins minerals fats and antioxidants. What happens when your body gets shocked with all this crap? It tries its best to function but it typically ends up running on short spurts of energy and eventually eats shit. Hello sugar crash.

How do you manage your sugar addiction? Consider these five tips to help curb your cravings and keep your energy stabilized:

1. Go natural. When consuming carbohydrates choose organic whole-food forms instead of highly-processed versions. You'll feed the body's sugar craving without risking a crash. An organic waffle we love Nature's Path with nut butter or dark chocolate with a high-cacao content are good options.

2. Read labels. Look for “plain” or “unsweetened” versions of your basic carbs cereal non-dairy milks waffles that you can dress up yourself. Cereal can pack as much sugar as a Twinkie so be smart about what you're eating for breakfast.

3. Invest in high-quality sweeteners. When you use your own sweeteners go for taste and nutrient density. Choose coconut palm sugar and nectar molasses and organic cane sugar. They may be more expensive than the processed stuff but you're worth it damnit.

4. Choose spices over sauces. We consume so much added sugar in sauces. Try using spices during the preparation of food for added flavor that’s naturally sugar-free. Be especially wary of salad dressings and tomato sauce - these suckers are often loaded with extra sugar and salt.

5. Monitor your carbs. Take note of your carb count every time you eat instead of aiming for a daily amount. At each eating occasion try to stay within 15-30 grams. Fifteen grams is more ideal for less-active types or those looking to lose weight.

Did you learn something new in this article? Still have questions? Leave us your feedback in the comments section below!

Have a question for Ashley? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com and we'll get your questions answered.

Ashley Koff R.D. Resident Dietitian

Named among the Top 10 Registered Dietitians in the U.S. by Today’s Dietitian Magazine Koff appears regularly on national media outlets including Dr. Oz The Doctors Good Morning America Health CNN AOL and E!. Koff is also the dietitian for espnW and the featured dietitian on the CW’s “Shedding for the Wedding” and Lifetime’s “Love Handles.” Koff maintains a private practice regularly lectures and works to improve the quality of food choices on the sets of popular shows such as Private Practice CSI: New York Big Love It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Bones. Her book Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged Hay House 2011 hits stands later this summer. For more information please visit AshleyKoffRd.com.

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Bowl Game Bruschetta

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Looking for a Vegan Super Bowl Snack? Try This Yummy Bruschetta!

Bean dip is so last season.

Need to whip something up for your entourage that doesn't scream "white trash"? Impress even the toughest game-day critics with this fresh and flavorful appetizer...

What You Need

1 cup diced tomatoes Roma or plum
1 teaspoon fresh garlic minced
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons basil chopped plus 1 tablespoon for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
1 Italian bread loaf or French bread baguette
1/4 cup olive oil for drizzling
2 garlic cloves halved for rubbing

How to Make It

Put tomatoes garlic 2 teaspoons of olive oil and vinegar in a bowl and mix. Add the chopped basil. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Slice the baguette or bread into diagonal 1/2-inch thick slices. Toast on a hot griddle for 1 minute on each side. Take a sharp knife and score each slice 3 times. Rub some garlic on the slices and drizzle about a half a teaspoon of olive oil on each slice. Align the bread on a serving platter olive oil side up. Place about a tablespoon of the tomato topping on each slice of bread and garnish with basil.

Want more recipes like this one? Browse through our entire library of vegan recipes and search by keyword to find something yummy!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor

An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

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What The Hell Do I Buy? Bleach

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

'Cause Cleaning The Bathroom is Necessary and Fun

If you’re a clean freak there’s nothing more alluring than a bucket of bleach.

It whitens your whites sanitizes your sinks and obliterates mold and mildew like friggin’ Optimus Prime.

The shit is amazing.

Crappy Chlorine

But those fluffy white towels and disinfected counters have a downside: one sniff and you might faint. Besides making you light-headed that heavenly bleach scent is a sign you’re dealing with a serious toxin. Chlorine bleach is a known respiratory irritant that can give off a toxic gas when it’s mixed with other common household products. Fun fact? It was actually the first poison gas to be used as a weapon during World War I.

And you're wiping down your counters with this shit?

What’s in Your Tub?

These days the biggest problem with chlorine is that its byproducts pollute our water supply and our bodies. Dioxins - a set of chemical chlorine byproducts - are considered the most carcinogenic little dudes known to science. Dirty dioxins accumulate in our fatty tissues and -- unlike other environmental toxins -- our bodies aren’t able to metabolize them. So they stay in our systems and mess shit up. In humans dioxins have been linked to cancer diabetes hormonal imbalances reproductive disorders decreased fertility endometriosis birth defects and immune system problems.

Chill It’s Safe

Dioxins are also hormone disrupters that mimic estrogen. On average Americans ingest 300 to 600 times the EPA’s “safe dose” of dioxins on a daily basis. The problem is so widespread that experts agree it would be difficult to find a person alive who does not have detectable levels of dioxins in his or her blood.

Scared yet? You should be. This shit is nasty and it’s kind of hard to avoid. Bleach is used to make paper products including coffee filters milk cartons diapers tampons paper towels and toilet tissues. All of these products leech chlorine and dioxins into your drinks or onto your skin.

Bleach and Kiddies

If you have tots running around the house it’s especially important to ditch the bleach. A 1997 study found that one-third of calls to the Poison Control Center about household cleaners were about chlorine bleach – and most of those calls were about poisoning in children under 6 years old.

Safe Solutions

The good news? You don’t have to clean like your mom did. Today the chemical industry has evolved to produce products that still clean sanitize and disinfect without the harmful repercussions to our bodies and the environment:

Biokleen Oxygen Bleach Plus. This is a powder that uses grapefruit seed extract to brighten colors and whites. Fights stains mildew and corrosion. Great for laundry and especially good at removing pet stains from carpets. Biodegradable and not tested on animals. PETA approved. 6 at biokleen.com or Whole Foods.

Oxo Brite Natural Oxygen Powder. Made by Earth Friendly Products it uses oxygen to whiten brighten and deodorize. Biodegradable not tested on animals. Removes current and old stains on fabric upholstery and most water-washable surfaces. Great for kid and pet accidents. 5 at Walgreens and other mass retailers.

Ecover Non-Chlorine Bleach Ultra. Contains only hydrogen peroxide and water. Not tested on animals. Good for removing stains whitening and brightening laundry or for cleaning kitchen sinks bathroom tile showers toilets and tubs. Safe for septic tanks. 5 at luckyvitamin.com or Whole Foods.

The Verdict

Pros: Removes stains and cleans without the harmful side effects of chlorine bleach. No nasty smells. Products are also more concentrated meaning they’re cheaper and use less packaging -- always a plus for the environment.

Cons: Laundry needs to be soaked longer than with chlorine bleach.

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications she does sales marketing writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics detoxing at the co-op scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

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Stay In The Know And Win 1000 To Williams-Sonoma

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Keep Up With The Latest Trends Without Wasting Your Time

If you’re anything like us you want to be in the know but are too damn busy to keep up with the latest and greatest.

Well PureWow wants to make sure you’re staying hip without wasting your time on junk you don’t care about. It’s a free daily lifestyle email and website for savvy ladies that cuts through the noise to showcase the very best timely – not trendy – finds. Unlike so many daily lifestyle emails PureWow makes recommendations with the chic grown-up woman in mind.

Rest assured you won’t be bombarded with recipes for crazy cocktails or shopping tips for party-girl fashions. Instead PureWow's well-curated emails will highlight a wide range of timely subjects - arts and culture health and fitness fashion and beauty home and garden and the one we especially love food and travel - in an effort to keep you informed about the most unique products experiences and time-savers. It covers everything from healthy new drinks made with chia seeds a 2012 superfood! to new books exploring Coco Chanel's secret life oooo spicy.

PureWow’s content is unique exciting and full of inspiration. It truly is written for fabulous women of substance just like you: Women who want to cut through the crap and get to the good stuff.

Best of all…

Sign up now and you’ll be entered to win 1000 to Williams-Sonoma!

So PureWow can tell you what’s timely to buy at Williams-Sonoma and then you can use your gift card to snag it all. Bitchin’.

Don’t look now but your finger just landed firmly on the pulse of the latest and greatest.

Today’s post is proudly sponsored by

Stress and Fat

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

If You Don't Calm Down You Ain't Gonna Be Skinny

Hormones have a shitty reputation these days.

Try talking about them at a dinner party and watch all of the men clear the room. Relax guys -- you have them too.

Hormone 411

Besides helping out all your organs with their jobs your hormones are also dealing with the stuff going on outside your body. The time of day it is what you’re eating your emotional reaction to bad news -- all of these things are measured by your endocrine system which responds and releases hormones to do all kinds of you know regulatory stuff. Hormones also control whether your ass gets fat or fit.

Clearly we need to respect those little bitches.

Fight or Flight

It’s freakin’ tough on your hormones these days considering that external variables in your life aren’t the same as they were 10000 years ago. When you’re gearing up for fight or flight which meant running from a saber-toothed tiger back in the day cortisol seeks to control your body’s reaction to the danger. Trouble is there are no more tigers chasing you -- it’s just your shitty boss yelling at you again.

Cortisol Connection

Cortisol on its own is not such a bad dude. Like human growth hormone HGH leptin and ghrelin cortisol is one of the key players in a system of checks and balances that makes sure your metabolism functions properly. But when you get stressed out that all goes to shit. In high amounts cortisol will compete with progesterone for receptors on your cells. When you overproduce cortisol you threaten your healthy progesterone activity which gets your estrogen out of whack. Hello crazy.

Other Hormones

If your spiky cortisol levels aren’t enough your bad sleep habits are messing other shit up too. Enter leptin and ghrelin. These two ebb and flow before and after meals and have earned the nickname “the hunger hormones” because of it. When they’re all good ghrelin and leptin peak before meals signaling hunger and decline after you’ve eaten signaling fullness.

You can see how dumb it is to mess with them huh?

Fat Much?

Like cortisol chronically-elevated leptin levels go hand-in-hand with obesity overeating and inflammation-related diseases. Even though leptin is an appetite-inhibitor obese people often have high leptin levels in the bloodstream. A stressed-out bod learns to be leptin-resistant in the same way a person can be insulin-resistant. If you’re resistant to the hormone that tells you when you’re full that's a big freakin’ problem princess.

Good Ol' Ghrelin

Remember ghrelin? High ghrelin levels are linked with a good night’s sleep. Poor sleep has a direct impact on your food cravings specifically for carbohydrates. Studies have repeatedly shown that getting less than six hours of sleep for as little as three nights in a row can increase carbohydrate consumption 45 percent. So yes there's a reason your ass wolfed down seven donuts for breakfast. Forty-five percent more carbohydrates a day cravings from your wacky periods and free radicals zipping around doing damage? Here we have the perfect recipe for weight gain girls.

Zen Time

You’ve heard it before and we’ll say it again: Chill the F out. Tell your boss you’ll work remotely one day a week. Take evening walks with your fam. Enroll in a yoga class. Try meditation listen to calmer music and watch less TV. Sleep more. Your to-do list can wait so get a manicure with your friends. They don’t call it “laughing your ass off” for nothing babe.

Do you gain weight when you're stressed? Let us know how you cope and leave a comment below!

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

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Have You Seen My Libido?

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Not Hot and Bothered? Consider These Common Culprits of Low Libido

Even seasoned sex kittens get bored with the same old song and dance.

Stress diet and other factors can take a raging toll on your libido leaving you with a limp love life and quite possibly a guilt complex when you say "no thanks" to nookie.

What’s wrong with you when you'd rather knit sweaters than knock boots? Nothing sweetheart. But looking at the potential causes of your sluggish sex drive can shed a whole lotta light on the dreaded dry-panty syndrome. Our resident sexpert Lou Paget delivers the dirty deets:

Stress and Sex

We already know that stress makes mommy’s mojo go bye-bye thanks 9-5. But here’s the good news: Most stress is temporary. You can often breathe meditate or drink it away. But if you'd rather not become a raging alcoholic try an aromatic bath with a few drops of non-toxic jasmine clary sage or patchouli. These are aphrodisiacal scents that impact the pituitary gland which helps rev your engine down there while chillaxing your brain. Ahhhhhh.

Zzzzzzz…

Another amazing libido secret? Sleep stupid. Just a few nights of uninterrupted slumber can reset your internal monitor stabilize your hormones and give you the energy you need to bring home the Big O baby. Make sure you're getting proper z's even if it means getting your ass to bed before the second half of "The Bachelor" is over. You know that shit is addicting.

Med Head

Are you taking antidepressants or poppin' pills for anxiety? If so these bad boys could be responsible for banishing your libido into oblivion. Common side effects? Down-there dryness inability to orgasm and erection problems for men. Um we'll pass on that. While you should definitely consult your doc before ditching any prescribed pills be a shrewd consumer and make sure you really need them. Even improper dosage can cause big-time side effects. Depression is serious but so is a sad vag. Repeat after me: I deserve happiness and hot sex.

Birth Control

Oral birth control might seem like God’s gift to modern women but it could be stealing your va-va-voom. For some women simply getting off the pill brings sexy back. Yaz Yasmin and Ocella have all been linked to the disappearing-libido act. Consider what other options might be possible for you. We've come a long way since the rhythm method ladies.

Hug Therapy

Love a good rub down? You’re not the only one. Some studies have shown that men need to be touched two to three times more frequently than women in order to maintain the same level of oxytocin the sexy bonding hormone.

Without frequent touch your brain’s circuits and receptors can feel starved for dopamine the feel-good hormone. Hugging and cuddling feed and reinforce those connection circuits ensuring lovey-dovey feelings and hot romps. Even if you’re not in the mood now a sensual back rub or loving massage can get you there pronto.

Turned on? Comment below and tell us your libido-boosting secrets bitches.

L. Lou Paget Sexuality & Relationships Expert and Best-Selling Author
An international best-selling author of five books and AASECT Certified Sex Educator Lou Paget has spent the last 15 years traveling the world to set the record straight about sexuality regardless of age or gender. Best known for her pre-eminent sexuality seminar company FRANKly Speaking Inc. Lou’s books have been translated in 28 languages in over 60 countries. When not talking and researching about sexuality and its current trends Lou can be found golfing and surfing news and pop culture sites. She lives in Beverly Hills California.

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Sesame Seed Kale Pesto

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

This Guilt-Free Spread Is Great Over Crackers or Toast

Cashews and nutritional yeast give texture and flavor to this vegan take on pesto...

Serves 6

What You Need

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup sweet white onion sliced
3 cloves fresh garlic pressed
4 cups fresh kale finely chopped
1/2 cup cashews
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 cup sesame seeds
1 teaspoon black sesame seeds
1/6 teaspoon sea salt

How to Make It

In a large skillet heat oil onions and garlic. Cook for 3 minutes or until onions caramelize. Add kale; cook for another 2 minutes or until kale is wilted.

Transfer mixture to a food processor; add remaining ingredients. Pulse until mixture forms a smooth consistency.

Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve atop gluten-free crackers with crudites or as a spread atop toast. Enjoy.

Have you tried this recipe? How did it turn out? Let us know on in the comments section below!

Amie Valpone Food Blogger
The gal behind The Healthy Apple Amie Valpone HHC AADP is a Manhattan-based culinary marketing consultant specializing in gluten-free "clean" eating. Amie is also a culinary nutritionist spending time with clients as a Food Allergy Concierge and Pantry Stylist in the big apple of Manhattan and publisher of the all-new gluten-free online magazine Easyeats.com.

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Glycemic Index Diet

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

A Good Way To Lose Weight Or a Gimmick?

Girlfriend admit it: You’re in denial.

Your favorite jeans did not shrink in the wash - you put on some extra pounds during the holidays and it’s time to get back into fighting shape!

The Glycemic Index Diet

One weight-loss plan that has recently gained a following was originally developed as a tool to help diabetics manage their blood sugar. It's based on the Glycemic Index GI a measure of the degree of how rapidly a carbohydrate is digested and released as glucose sugar into the blood stream with zero being low and 100 being high. The theory behind the Glycemic Index diet is that eating low GI foods can help reduce hunger because they are broken down more slowly so you feel fuller longer.

When you consume high GI foods they are digested quickly causing a blood sugar spike that's followed by a crash. The result? A vicious cycle of intense cravings and binging.

Still with me? Good.

Looks Are Misleading

On the surface the GI diet seems to make sense - but so did electric-blue eyeshadow at one point. Glycemic Index scores vary from person to person and can be altered by the cooking method as well as the ripeness of food. And more significantly the GI rating does not take into account the amount of carbohydrates in a food item.

Consider a carrot. If you were to strictly follow the GI diet then you would avoid carrots because of their high GI score. You would also choose candy over a higher-scoring potato and wash it down with a regular soda. Um not on your life.

What to Eat

There’s an ongoing debate over whether eating a low GI diet is a gimmick or an effective way to lose weight. The research is not conclusive so like all eating plans you have to find what works for your individual needs. If you decide to try a low GI/GL diet here is a list of many common foods and their ratings. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine PCRM has also put together a list of some recommended low-GI foods including the following:

Pumpernickel or rye bread avoid white bread
Oats bran cereals GrapeNuts
Most fruits
Sweet potatoes
Rice barley couscous
Beans peas lentils
Most veggies

Other Tips

Eat loads of fiber. Build up to 40 grams per day.
Consume “volumetric” foods. Soups salads and foods cooked in water - like oatmeal - will make you feel full without adding lots of calories.
Don't skip meals. A study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology showed that willpower is affected by the amount of glucose in the brain and even small acts of self-control can deplete the supply.

Have you tried the Glycemic Index diet? Let us know on in the comments section below!

Susan Emmer FOOD Feature Editor
Susan is an eco-lifestyle expert certified whole health educator and refugee from the corporate media world. Earning an environmental studies degree before green was the new black Susan is the owner of Farmacy Agency a sustainability marketing social media and PR firm. Susan works hard to keep her two dogs in the life they’ve grown accustomed to and dreams of someday living on a ranch. Follow her on Twitter wellnewsnetwork.

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Renewing Your Resolutions

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Committed to Staying Skinny or Eating Less Crap? Here Are Some Ways to Approach Your New Year's Resolutions Like a Smart Girl

It’s January. Sigh.

It’s also the most common time for health and fitness resolutions - until February of course when you can’t remember why the hell you gave up carbs.

But it doesn’t have to be hard this year. Your fitness goals should be less like unattainable milestones and more like a daily commitment to being your best bitchin’ self. Here are some things to consider when you're tempted to ditch your workout for a bag of salty Kettle chips:

You Brush Your Teeth and Shower Daily. Don't you? If not that's gross. Point is you have time to do these things because they are a necessary part of life. Regular fitness can - and should - be the same. Think of it as something akin to getting dressed in the morning not a daunting must-do task that will result in shame and blame if you don’t complete it.

There is Always Time. Cut the crap honey. You can stick to a fitness resolution no matter how many emails are sitting in your inbox. Fitness does not have to happen in a gym with a trainer or in your yoga studio. It can be done anywhere. Walk around the block 10 times or take the stairs for a day straight. Do push-ups and sit-ups in front of the TV. Experiment with an audio yoga class or cardio circuit workout on your iPod. As long as you're moving it counts!

Make Music Your Friend. Music can move inspire and energize. It also drowns out those annoying grunting people at the gym. With your favorite tunes sticking to a fitness resolution will be no problemo. In fact studies have shown that music can make you work out longer and harder. Feeling like you can’t get your butt off the couch? Drag yourself to your iTunes first find a beat that inspires you and then get your sweat on. It's an assured way to shift your mood and motivation.

See it as Escape Time. How often do you really get alone uninterrupted time with yourself these days? There is always an email a boss a child a partner a tweet or a “something” that’s clamoring for your attention. Instead of looking at working out as something you have to do look at it as a precious little slice of time for you. Calm your racing thoughts during a meditative bike ride. Sort out your angry feelings during a turbo-charged Bikram class. Your sweaty time really can be paradise if you let it.

Boredom is Not an Option. The second you let yourself think you're getting bored with a routine you will be bored. Add more spontaneity to your workout schedule to stay intrigued. Mix up only things you like so that you're doing them one to two times a week and getting in at least three to six workouts. Walking through the woods. Running. Boxing. Yoga. Aerobics. Look at your calendar and then check the schedule at the gyms or studios around you. Make your routine mold to what is available so you have an enticing weekly schedule to - dare I say it - look forward to.

Don’t Psych Yourself Out. Just because you fall off the wagon one day or even one week it doesn't mean your resolutions should be thrown away! And just because you have a lazy ahem soft workout one day doesn't mean you should give up. Your body changes and life changes every single moment of every day. That is what makes both so incredible. So let yourself ride the waves of you and sweat through them instead of breaking and crashing every time something challenging comes up. It will be fine. I promise. Tomorrow is a new day.

I look forward to my daily sweat time more than anything else. It's a part of my life that allows me special time for me and me alone. Aren’t you worth it too? Damn right you are.

What changes do you want to make in 2012? Are you on track? Leave us your feedback in the comments section below!

Have a question for Lauren? Email us and we'll get your questions answered.

Lauren Imparato Fitness Contributor
In Spring 2009 Lauren resigned her job at Morgan Stanley to launch I.AM.YOU. a lifestyle brand and yoga studio in Little Italy Manhattan. Lauren teaches intense fun and athletic Vinyasa classes each set to a unique Music Mix designed by I.AM.YOU.'s Resident Mixologist. Lauren graduated with an Advanced Certification from Conquering Lion Yoga and received a secondary Advanced Certification from Kula Yoga School. She also has a Certificate in Advanced Studies Yoga Anatomy is a graduate of the Institute of Integrated Nutrition and accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. She holds an Intermediate Level Certificate from the International Wine Center and a BA from Princeton University in Romance Languages and Literatures. Tweet Lauren IAMYOUstudio or follow her on Facebook.

Organic or Bust

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

You Already Know Organic = Healthy But Why Is It So Important?

You’re no dummy.

You count your calories and sweat to your oldies. But now everyone on God’s green earth is touting the virtues of organic and you’re wondering what the big deal is.

If I trust the brand isn’t it OK? If it’s locally grown isn’t it OK? If I can pronounce all the ingredients isn’t it OK?

Not so much.

And if that wasn’t bad enough now they’re telling you that you have to buy organic hair and beauty products. Is this just some kind of scam created by corporate giants that’s designed specifically to make you spend more money?

Definitions Please

You might think organic foods are just foods grown without bug spray but it goes beyond that. Organic foods are grown in non-chemical fertilizers without the use of pesticides without the use of radiation and without genetically modified organisms GMOs or chemical food additives. That’s a mouthful.

Fruit Fear

So why is this so important? Well to prove a point let’s take our sweet red friend the strawberry.

Last year California approved the use of methyl iodide on strawberries as a bug repellent. Don’t live in California? It doesn’t matter – 80 percent of the nation’s strawberries are grown there.

This nasty pesticide is used in labs to induce cancer in rodents and small animals. Just breathing enough of this chemical causes lung liver kidney and central nervous system damage. You might not be breathing it in but the people who are planting your strawberries are.

Other Intruders

It’s not just the methyl iodide that’ll hurt you sweetness. The regular strawberries you buy at the grocery store are loaded with a toxic cocktail mix of eight carcinogens 24 suspected hormone disruptors 11 neurotoxins and 12 developmental or reproductive toxins. Some of these chemicals can hang out in your body for years so even small doses are an issue.

Organic Meat

While you may be a plant-based beauty you definitely have those meat-eaters in your life who just won’t give up their carnivorous ways. You’re co-existing as peacefully as possible but what they don’t know could kill them.

The FDA recently admitted that chicken contains trace amounts of arsenic. Yep the poison. How is that possible? Well for one thing Pfizer Inc. makes chicken feed. Know what else Pfizer is famous for making? Viagra. What is a company that makes boner-enhancers doing making chicken feed? Freakin’ good question. Regardless only organic chicken is certified to be arsenic-free.

Home Invasion

So now you know that your fruits and veggies have disgusting infertility-producing and cancer-causing chemicals all over them. Ready for the bonus round? There are all kinds of nasty parabens super-strong preservative chemicals that show up later in breast cancer tumors and sulfates lurking in your beauty and household products. Even products that claim to be “all natural” have enough chemicals in them to make your hubby estrogen-dominant and throw off your fertility big-time.

Uh Some Advice?

Don’t panic. Educate yourself. Stupid girls are not hot. Read Kim’s book on chemical-proofing your home. It has tons of resources to help you un-scarify your abode and information on organic healthy makeup or beauty products. When in doubt check out our very own “What the Hell Do I Buy?” section for tons of great resources on products that won’t make you toxic.

Can't get on board cause organic is expensive? You’re right - it is. But you know what else is expensive? Infertility treatments. Hospital stays. Chemotherapy. Funerals. You get the idea.

Like this article? Leave us a comment below!

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

Lose 20 Pounds in 2012

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Stop Bitching. Stop Making Excuses. You Can Do This.

Our resident dietitian is a woman about town.

She recently visited “Access Hollywood Live” to share her secrets for weight loss. If you want to drop that baby weight holiday weight or sitting-on-your-ass-at-work weight follow her no-fail tips:

Hide From HFCS

High-fructose corn syrup: It’s not a fruit and it’s not corn. It’s a chemical cocktail that the body doesn’t know what the hell to do with. Know what happens to stuff the body can’t find a use for? It gets stored in your fat cells and overburdens your liver lady. Choose spices sauces and dressings that don’t contain the dreaded HFCS. Try organic spices we love Teeny Tiny Spice Co. quality hot sauces try All Spice Café and dressings made of vinegars spices and oils - not sugar salt and other junk.

Calorie Shmalorie

How many 100-calorie packs of junk does it take to fill up your trunk? Not very many. True portion control is a vital tool for weight loss but that doesn’t mean you get to eat crap in a bag. The quality of nutrients and a balance of the right nutrients do more to ensure you lose weight and keep it off. When we go “low cal” hunger and boredom set in. We end up eating again sooner consuming more calories and getting less nutrition than if we made nutrient-balanced choices to begin with. Aim for a serving each of carbs protein and fat. It may seem like more calories but it’s going to give you sustained energy - we’re talking three hours.

Remember weight loss isn’t a sprint to an imaginary finish line so fuel up right now and you'll have the energy to keep at it every day.

Ditch the Diet Drinks

You think you’re so tricky. You get sweet taste caffeine and bubbly without paying the price right? Wrong. Ditch the chemicals that irritate the body and fill you up without any real fuel. If you want something other than water but with no or minimal calories try a flavored sparkling water we love Ayala’s Herbal Water or soda alternative. If you need your energy fix choose an organic energy shot like Celestial Seasonings K Shots which gives you some carbs for quick energy and pair it with a handful of nuts. Another thing? Don’t ever put caffeine in a body without any nutrients as it’s like revving an engine without any gas in the car. Eeeeek!

Even better? Grab an organic greens juice kale spinach cucumber romaine lemon ginger which helps remove toxins gives you energy and alkalinizes your digestive tract to reduce bloat and sugar cravings.

Drink Purposefully What Size Do You Want to Be?

Looking to be larger? We thought not. But if you’re ordering beverages the size of your head you’re right on track to the next dress size up. A portion size of a non-dairy beverage is 6-8 ounces. For booze aim for even less. Look for “plain” and “unsweetened” on your labels to avoid extra sugar. A juice serving is 4 ounces - not the bottle size you grab at the store. So whether you’re making a smoothie at home ordering a glass of wine or getting your morning latte make sure to order for the size you want to be: small. Easy solution? Get smaller glasses or mugs for your house or daily commute.

What's your plan for weight loss in 2012? Leave us your feedback in the comments section below!

Have a question for Ashley? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com and we'll get your questions answered.

Ashley Koff R.D. Resident Dietitian
Named among the Top 10 Registered Dietitians in the U.S. by Today’s Dietitian Magazine Koff appears regularly on national media outlets including Dr. Oz The Doctors Good Morning America Health CNN AOL and E!. Koff is also the dietitian for espnW and the featured dietitian on the CW’s “Shedding for the Wedding” and Lifetime’s “Love Handles.” Koff maintains a private practice regularly lectures and works to improve the quality of food choices on the sets of popular shows such as Private Practice CSI: New York Big Love It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Bones. Her book Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged Hay House 2011 hits stands later this summer. For more information please visit AshleyKoffRd.com.

Zit Face

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

The causes of acne and natural ways to treat it

There’s nothing better than waking up with a huge zit on your face.

Hugh Jackman could be standing shirtless next to you in the coffee shop and you’d still think everyone ordering a damn latte was staring at the crater kickin' it on your cheek.

Quit cursing at your mother for telling you that it would go away in your early twenties and let’s get to it: what exactly causes acne and how do we fight it?

The Cause

Acne is what happens when your skin’s oil glands produce too much oil. Basically the oil that was designed to lubricate your skin and hair follicles thereby keeping your skin healthy and moisturized gets trapped in blocked oil ducts. This triggers good bacteria that normally protects the skin from harmful bacteria to grow in the closed pore. The bacteria then produces chemicals that alter the composition of the oil irritating the skin and causing inflammation as the body’s immune system attempts to rid itself of a foreign substance. The ‘foreigner’ at hand being the bacteria or irritating compounds they have produced.

What Your Body Is Telling You

Acne can be a slight indication that your body is begging for an internal spring cleaning. Or you’re eating drinking or ingesting way too much or too little of something see below.

Natural Treatments

Before you turn to heavy-duty antibiotics or medical treatments consider some of these natural treatments or causes:

Milk does a body bad. Researchers claim to have found a correlation between milk intake and acne. It appears that milk drinkers develop more severe acne than well say non-milk drinkers. Milk also contains hormones that can cause breakouts.

Reduce intake of saturated fats and trans fats. A no-brainer these icky additives can contribute to oily skin.

Reduce sodium intake. Ditch the excess sugar and carbonated drinks. It’s all about control ladies.

Load up on zinc. Zinc boosts the immune system reduces inflammation and heals damaged skin. Load up on zinc-rich foods like almonds and nuts wheat bran cereal and chickpeas or supplements.

Fall in love with omega-3 fatty acids. They promote healthy skin and prevent acne. Foods high in omega-3s include flax seed walnuts cereals oregano grape leaves and broccoli.

Stimulate the liver. Incorporate some garlic into your diet sip on a glass of hot water with lemon in the morning juice some beets and munch on cruciferous veggies Brussel sprouts cauliflower broccoli. All help detox and stimulate the liver.

Drink water. Water flushes out toxins. Got it? Carry a reusable water bottle with you and keep refilling throughout the day.

Avoid chemical-based cosmetics. Yet another reason to check the ingredients on the back of the box. Chemicals are harsh on the skin and can contribute to inflammation.

Cleanse the skin

Here are some savvy ways to wash your skin to be acne-free:

Tea tree and carrier oil. Mix two drops of tea tree oil with 30 ml of a carrier oil i.e. vegetable oil. It acts as a natural antiseptic is gentle on the skin and speeds the healing of blemishes.

Baking soda paste. Create a scrub of 1 tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Gently massage into skin with a soft bristle brush to remove dirt from the pores before infection sets in.

Jojoba oil. Rub some jojoba oil into the skin which will help to unclog pores and eliminate dirt.

Steam facial. Take a load off with a steam facial. Heat up a large bowl of clean water drape a towel over your head and the hot water to envoke a steamy environment. Make sure not to lean too close to avoid risk of scalding and leave an opening to breathe properly. Steam for five minutes.

Acne take a hike.

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Peanut & Raisin Popcorn Balls

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

The Perfect After-School Snack or Midnight Munchie

For a variation on this recipe use dried cranberries instead of raisins.

What You Need

2 tbsp. vegan butter
1 bag 10 ounces mini vegan marshmallows
12 cups plain unsalted popped popcorn from 2/3 cup kernels
1/2 cup unsalted peanuts
1/2 cup raisins

How to Make It

In a medium nonstick saucepan melt 2 tbsp. butter over low heat. Add the bag of mini marshmallows; cook stirring until melted 10 to 12 minutes. In a large bowl combine the popcorn unsalted peanuts and raisins being careful not to mix in any un-popped kernels.

Pour melted marshmallows over popcorn mixture and fold to combine. You will need to work quickly since the sugar in the marshmallows hardens as it cools. Rub a little butter into your hands to prevent sticking and gently form 12 balls each about 2 1/2 inches across; place on waxed paper. Let set until cool and firm about 10 minutes.

Want more recipes like this one? Browse through our entire library of vegan recipes and search by keyword to find something yummy!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor

An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

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What The Hell Do I Buy? Eye Cream

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

'Cause Your Saggy Peepers Deserve The Best Care

With the holidays behind us you're probably looking a little pooped lately.

Between marathon shopping sessions all-nighters to wrap presents and more holiday parties than you can remember been there! your face may be showing signs of wear and tear. The cold weather and and low humidity on planes can do a number on your circulation and your skin.

Peep This

Facial fat tends to start shrinking around the eyes first meaning they’re the first place on the face to show stress. And when getting a good night’s sleep or making lifestyle changes isn’t in the cards hello newborn baby most people turn to supercharged eye creams. The trick is to find products that won’t damage your sensitive eye area and screw up your bod in the process.

Unsightly Stuff

Toxins in conventional eye creams can include alcohols ammonia DMDM hydantoin phthalates parabens and synthetic fragrances all of which can cause allergic reactions sensitivity and other scary problems. The most offensive ingredient found in conventional eye creams is hydroquinone a severely toxic and very powerful skin whitener that is banned in the UK but not the US. It’s carcinogenic cancer causing on its own and because it lightens skin it reduces melanin which is skin’s own UV protector. So if you want your peepers to be able to protect themselves steer clear of the topical whiteners.

Natural Eye Creams

And really why would you want to smear toxic chemicals around your beautiful baby blues? Stick with these natural eye creams for products that will work to eliminate puffiness and wrinkles without the side effects.

Weleda Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream. Part of a new line from a company we love it’s an antioxidant rich and fragrance-free cream that uses organic pomegranate seed oil to firm and protect the eye area. Refreshing and stimulating—kind of like putting a cucumber on your eyes. 33 at weleda.com or Whole Foods.

Mineral Fusion Revitalizing Eye Treatment. Uses the minerals magnesium copper and zinc to stimulate new skin cell production and provide antioxidant defense against free radicals. Vegan and hypo-allergenic. Very hydrating and soothing. Contains peptides and botanicals to brighten dark circles. 24.99 at drugstore.com

DermaE Anti-Aging Eye Cream. From the family-owned and operated natural product company DermaE the eye cream uses tamanu oil from the tropical tamanu tree pomegranate CoQ10 green tea and acai to nourish hydrate soften and smooth. Vegan and pH-balanced. Great for moisturizing. 13.00 at LuckyVitamin.com.

The Verdict

Pros: Protecting and reversing the signs of aging or too much fun without the nasty ingredients.

Cons: We haven’t noticed any. Since we know you’d never consider Botox injecting a toxin into your face is gross natural eye creams are a great way to prevent and repair damage.

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications she does sales marketing writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics detoxing at the co-op scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

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New Year Better You

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Start Your New Year Off Right With A Bitchin’ Vegan Cleanse

Tired of making resolutions that you just bail on a few weeks in?

You read a dozen articles on how to stay slim during the holidays and your strict health plan bombed completely. Don’t sweat it – there’s a way to start fresh. If you’re ready to give your diet and your body an overhaul I suggest you check out my go-to cleanse.

Kaeng Raeng is an all-natural vegan meal replacement detox program designed to help jumpstart weight loss improve digestion boost immunity remove toxins and reduce cravings. What’s not to love?

Want to know more?

It’s a cinch! Just add one pouch to 24-32 fl oz of water or your favorite juice. You can also blend it with frozen fruit or ice to make a kick-ass smoothie! Simply drink it three times a day at mealtime for three to six days.

It’s safe. There are no laxatives stimulants or impossible-to-pronounce scary ingredients in Kaeng Raeng.

It’s satisfying. You shouldn’t have to starve yourself to detox. Each serving of KR makes 32 fl oz and is packed with a full serving of fruit and fiber 45g per day of lean non-GMO protein probiotics and vitamins. The best part? You can eat as many fresh fruits and veggies as your heart desires! Get great results without deprivation.

It’s kind. Kaeng Raeng is completely animal free gluten free peanut free and sustainably made in California with only local ingredients. Plus a portion of every sale goes to the American Humane Society!

Kaeng Raeng also comes in three levels designed for your lifestyle and goals. Try the three-day program if you just want to cleanse or the six-day program if you’re looking to drop a few of those holiday pounds. Choose from a Beginner Veteran or Master level.

Not sure which one is best for you? Take Kaeng Raeng’s detox quiz online to find out.

IN IT TO WIN IT!

Kaeng Raeng is giving away a free three-day Beginner cleanse to one lucky healthy bitch. Just leave a comment below and share your healthy New Year’s resolution.

Can’t wait to get started? Kaeng Raeng starts at just 16/day! Get 15 percent off with coupon code HEALTHY15 at Kaengraeng.com. Offer expires January 11 at 11:59PM PST so don’t wait to get cleansin’.

Have a kick-ass and healthy New Year with Kaeng Raeng!

- Kim Barnouin

UPDATE: We have chosen our winner! Congrats Ana!

Today’s post is proudly sponsored by

Beginner Vegan Essentials

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

New at the Vegan Thing? Suck at Cooking? Here Are Some Things To Keep on Hand

You're finally on board with the vegan thing.

Sweet! Whatever your story is you’re now part of the most badass club on the planet.

But you’re probably wondering what we all wondered when we first went veg: What the hell do I do now? It’s cool – this is the list of beginner vegan essentials. It has everything you need to know in order to stir a sauce make something that doesn't taste shitty and not sound dumb when someone asks you what tempeh is.

Already bored cause you're a long-time healthy bitch? Sit still. You might learn something new.

Easy Eats

Look you’re not gonna survive on the vegetable medley at your local food joint. Vegans can get all of the nutrients without any of the gastrointestinal yikes-factor as omnivores. But first you have to know what you’re talking about. What is all that shit I can’t pronounce? Let's review:

Hummus. Hummus is blended beans usually garbanzo. The beans are blended with garlic olive oil and often a teaspoon of sesame paste but many other ingredients can be added or substituted. Hummus is eaten as a kind of dip often with pita bread or veggies but it also makes a great spread for sandwiches.

Nutritional Yeast. Grown specifically for healthy folks like you nutritional yeast comes in powder or in the form of flakes and it adds a yummy cheesy without icky dairy flavor to foods. If you’re jonesing for mac and cheese but don’t want to imagine baby cows ripped away from their mothers to be slaughtered then nutritional yeast is for you. Bonus? It has tons of vitamin B12 - an essential one for plant-based eaters.

Seitan. Seitan is primarily composed of wheat gluten. Yes that gluten – so if you have Celiac’s disease or feel that you’re gluten sensitive you may want to avoid seitan. But if you’ve ever had faux meat that you swore could have been the real thing you were probably noshing on gluten.

Tempeh. Made from soybeans that are sometimes mixed with grains that are fermented tempeh is a healthy choice that has more nutrients and less phytoestrogens than tofu and it’s also generally more flavorful.

Tofu. Tofu is created by coagulating soymilk and then smooshing the curds. On its own it doesn’t pack much flavor but it can be eaten and cooked in so many ways that it’s a very versatile little dude to include in your fridge.

Spices. Girl get a spice rack. Vegan food depends on the flavors of fresh herbs and spices. No need to be meticulous about what you're throwing in a pot either. Experiment. Have fun.

Tools and Things

In an ideal world we’d all have that 400 shiny food processor on our counters but it’s like a recession. So we can’t. Here are the bare minimum gadgets and tools to keep on hand:

A good knife. Whether it’s veggies fruits or tofu your ass is gonna be a-choppin’. If you can’t afford the foofy Williams Sonoma kind try going to a restaurant supply store in your ‘hood – they have fantastic knives that are often a third of the price.

A big-ass pot. You need this to make veggie broths soups stews and chili. These are hearty and nutritious and will save your ass in the winter months.

A frying pan. Stir fry has endless variations and will keep you from getting bored of eating beans and rice every day. You can also make delicious banana pancakes and other vegan recipes with this simple staple.

A sauce pan. Preferably get one with the metal steaming attachment so you can steam your veggies too. But if you can’t afford that you can steam vegetables in the microwave quite easily.

A strainer. This is a “colander” in fancy talk. You’ll drain veggies pasta and beans like all the time so you need one. You can find them at Target for 1.

A blender. The poor person’s food processor your blender will make you delicious juice smoothies and veggie dips and you can get them pretty cheap these days. When in doubt check Goodwill or garage sales.

The Bottom Line

You can buy expensive stuff if you want to but your vegan lifestyle will work just fine with the tools you’ve already got in your cabinets. Try not to let the unknown properties of tempeh or juicing freak you out. Just like when you ate animal products try to eat a delish balanced diet that will give you tons of energy to get through your day.

And when you get stuck with questions hit us up in the comments section below!

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

Diet Scams

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 06:00:00 -0800

Why Pills Gadgets and Other Crap Won't Make You Skinny

Nothing says "Happy New Year" like a crazy fad diet.

With all the wild creams patches gadgets and pills on the market it's no wonder we think we can eat ourselves into oblivion over the holidays. I'll just use my Shake Weight in January - it's cool.

Where Do You Buy Your Crap?

What we actually purchase when we buy into all this diet nonsense is a false sense of fabulous and lies lies lies. We end up more fat confused and broke than ever before. Americans alone spend over 40 billion a year on weight loss and the results sure aren't reflected.

So here's the skinny on why the scams are a total waste of your time and what you really need to know before you splurge on something ridiculous.

The Creams

If a cream can magically erase your dimples or shed a pound or two off your thigh we'd all lather up in lieu of a diet. In reality cellulite is just excess fat. While losing weight may help diminish the appearance of those unsightly dimples there is no way to 'spot train' the body in one area and no cream will provide long-term results. The active ingredient in most creams is just caffeine and although it can stimulate the skin enough to show a minor firming effect it's not there to stay babe.

The Pills

Since the supplement industry is not regulated the same way prescription meds are often times there aren't even clinical trials to substantiate the wild claims made by most diet pill manufacturers. One of the latest crazes is the hCG diet of no more than 500 calories a day plus injections. Ouch. Research shows that the super-restrictive diet is what really creates the weight loss not the shots. Ya think? The FDA never approved hCG as a safe weight loss method so put down the syringes sister. Before you ingest any diet pill do your research. There are entire agencies devoted to consumer awareness since some pills have led to serious health concerns and even death. Yikes.

The Gadgets

Body wraps are the new "it" thing but what we forget is that the body can hold more than 6 pounds of water. Deplete that water and yes your skinny jeans suddenly fit. And tomorrow? You're back in those stretchy pants. As for the toning shoes and even the toning pants? Yes they make pants with tiny resistance bands sewn right into them. Those are nonsense too. Remember you can't lose weight from just one area and the muscle activation created by these fashionable fat shedders is so minimal that in most cases the claims are bogus.

The Skinny

The bottom line is that diets don't work - whether they're packaged in cream pill or gadget form. If your New Year's resolution is to lose weight start with your diet. Make sure you're getting proper nutrients and come up with a fitness plan that includes tangible goals. It's not brain surgery. Vow to try more vegan recipes if you're not already committed to that lifestyle. Eat a salad and go for a walk.

Diets are trendy. Living healthy is timeless.

Do you have a scary diet scam story? Tell us in the comments section below!

Beth Doane Contributing Writer
Beth is a fashion designer author and environmentalist who went from launching high-end European fashion lines to creating her own philanthropic fashion collection Rain Tees. Her line of tees funds school supplies for children in Central and South America and plants a tree in a tropical rainforest for every item sold. Beth’s consulting agency Andira International helps brands build sustainable ideas into products events and campaigns. Visit raintees.com for more information.

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Pistachio-Crusted Tofu Salad with Glazed Turnips

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Tofu is Anything But Boring In This Healthy and Flavorful Dish!

Need an interesting New Year's Eve dish? This one is unique delish and easy...

What You Need

½ cup pistachios
4 tbsp. sesame seeds
2 tsp. coriander
1 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. cumin
1/3 cup chia seeds
2 tbsp. olive oil
Sea salt and pepper to taste
1 block firm tofu drained and chopped into ½ inch cubes
Large bed of fresh baby spinach
8 turnips sliced 1/3-inch thick on diagonal
Sea salt and pepper
1/3 cup lime juice
1 tsp. cumin seeds
1/8 tsp. paprika
3 fresh basil leaves finely chopped

How to Make It

Preheat oven to 400 F. Spray baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

Chop pistachios in a food processor; transfer to small bowl and combine with sesame seeds coriander curry cumin and chia seeds.
Dip each cube of tofu into the olive oil then pistachio mixture ensuring to coat both sides. Transfer to baking sheet and repeat for all tofu cubes.

Bake for 20-30 minutes until tofu is golden brown.

Meanwhile to prepare turnips spray a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Add cumin seeds turnips lime juice and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes; remove from heat.

Create a large bed of fresh spinach on each serving dish top with tofu cubes and turnips. Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve.

Have you tried this recipe? How did it turn out? Let us know in the comments section below!

Amie Valpone Food Blogger

The gal behind The Healthy Apple Amie Valpone HHC AADP is a Manhattan-based culinary marketing consultant specializing in gluten-free "clean" eating. Amie is also a culinary nutritionist spending time with clients as a Food Allergy Concierge and Pantry Stylist in the big apple of Manhattan and publisher of the all-new gluten-free online magazine Easyeats.com.

Eating Before And After Exercise

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Depending on Your Workout What You Eat Before and After Matters

We go together like rama-lama-lama ka-dinga-da-dingy-dong.

You’ve experimented with wine pairings chocolate pairings and more. But when it comes to your exercise your activity of choice should be paired with the right foods for optimal energy digestion calorie burn and fat loss.

Hot Yoga

Hot yoga - or even an intense vinyasa class - will cause you to sweat water and toxins while opening the body and stimulating digestive function. Therefore pre-yoga isn’t the time to load up your stomach.

Before: About 2.5 hours before class have a coconut water smoothie with rice protein powder essential fatty acid oil and some organic greens. Nutrient-balanced snacks will give you the fuel you need but prevent digestive distress during class. Coconut water rich in potassium will ensure you're hydrated going into class too.

After: Drink plenty of water and eat some whole-grain or sprouted-grain crackers with guacamole also rich in potassium to replenish electrolytes.

Bootcamp

Yes classes are remniscient of army training - where you keep going 'til you lose your lunch. But we’d prefer you keep your nutrients.

Before: Eating about 2-3 hours before is mandatory. The body needs carbohydrates for quick energy you'll thank me when it's time for that 3rd round of burpees and protein for muscles. The anti-inflammatory power of these fats are an added “morning after” bonus. Try whole-grain stir fry with wild rice or Kamut and your favorite veggies aim for at least two colors. Add dried ginger and toss on hemp seeds after cooking.

After: Toss together a salad with sprouted beans and make a dressing from mashed avocado and salsa. This fuel will replenish what was lost and give your body energy to tackle the next few hours.

Swimming

Whether it’s a few quick laps or an hour of intense training the body exerts tremendous energy while swimming. While you want to pack in the nutrients pre-swim you don’t want to sink to the bottom.

Before: Eat 2-3 hours before and include hearty carbs like butternut squash soup buckwheat oats or millet. Top it with nuts and seeds for sustaining proteins and fats.

After: Sip on a coconut water for hydration. Have a warming bowl of steamed vegetables with tempeh skip the soy sauce and extra sodium and opt for sesame olive walnut flax or hemp seed oils.

Hiking

Hiking is one of the best ways to see the big wide world and get your workout in. The right fuel will make a big difference in terms of your energy but also will help with that annoying need to "go" when you're at the top of a mountain and there's no potty in sight.

Before: Hydrate a bit with H2O but skip your pre-trail coffee unless you have timed it and know your body’s post-coffee response extremely well. Before you hike start with a banana-peanut butter sandwich. The banana will help hydrate potassium but it's also a little constipating - which is desirable mid-hike. If you need some extra zing add some cacao nibs to an organic cereal with other nuts and seeds for a homemade hiker’s trail mix

After: Drink more water and enjoy your trail mix remains atop some berries or fruit. You can also try a lentil soup with veggie sausages and greens.

Interval Running

Running is great for you but according to numerous trainers interval running is where it’s at. To prepare your muscles and mind for this workout your body needs to be fueled up. You may do better eating closer to the time of exercise.

Before: Have a leftover slice of vegan pizza or half a sandwich? This could be the perfect pre-run fuel. Coffee or caffeinated beverages can work too hemp latte anyone? but be sure it won't require a bathroom break. And if you have coffee make sure you still have something to eat – a piece of fruit an organic fruit leather or an organic protein bar we like Pure bars.

After: Have a nutrient-balanced and hydrating snack like a burrito: corn tortilla non-GMO please sautéed onions and greens Daiya cheese guacamole and hot sauce. Pair it with a large glass of water with lemon or herbal iced tea.

What’s your favorite food and fitness pairing? Leave us your feedback in the comments section below and Ashley will tweet her faves this week!

Have a question for Ashley? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com and we'll get your questions answered.

Ashley Koff R.D. Resident Dietitian
Named among the Top 10 Registered Dietitians in the U.S. by Today’s Dietitian Magazine Koff appears regularly on national media outlets including Dr. Oz The Doctors Good Morning America Health CNN AOL and E!. Koff is also the dietitian for espnW and the featured dietitian on the CW’s “Shedding for the Wedding” and Lifetime’s “Love Handles.” Koff maintains a private practice regularly lectures and works to improve the quality of food choices on the sets of popular shows such as Private Practice CSI: New York Big Love It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Bones. Her book Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged Hay House 2011 hits stands later this summer. For more information please visit AshleyKoffRd.com.

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Get Your Butt in Gear This New Year

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Tired of making resolutions that you just bail on a few weeks in? Us too.

So this year we sought advice from Meghan Telpner nutritionista extraordinaire owner of The Love in the Kitchen Academy and all round kick-ass chick.

If there’s one girl who knows how to set goals and stick to them it’s Meghan. Seriously. This is a woman who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease 5 years ago - a condition docs told her was incurable and could only be addressed with surgery and meds. Not one to play by the rules she reclaimed her health with yoga meditation acupuncture herbal remedies and healthy eating. Five years later Meghan remains symptom free.

So who better to whip us into shape for 2012 right? And she’s making it easier than ever to keep whole natural local and most importantly delicious vegan food on the menu with these items from her kitchen:

1. Irish Moss: This superfood gives a creamy texture to smoothies and puddings and is an excellent source of sulphur compounds protein iodine calcium iron magnesium selenium zinc pectin and vitamins B and C. It eases digestive discomfort - something we can all appreciate this time of year.

2. Nut Sack: Don’t let the name turn you off. This kit makes it easy to make your own nut and seed milks right at home. Not the other thing.

3. Power Packs: Meghan’s put together a few power packs to make getting 2012 off on the right foot easy. Try her Smoothie Kit Raw Living Deluxe Kit or the Stress Buster – all of which are chock-full of awesome stuff.

So start 2012 off with a healthy bang.

Until January 1 use the coupon code Resolution on any of Meghan’s finds on Ethical Ocean to save 10!

Let Meghan help you reach your goals and conquer your resolutions without sacrificing too many of the things you love.

Cheers to a fantastic year!

Today’s post is proudly sponsored by

Move It Or Lose It

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Your Bod and Mind May Be Clean and Zen But What About Your Environment?

As it turns out where you put your crap matters.

That messy pile of clothes heaping stack of papers or the junk you shove under the bed could be messing up your flow.

We're talkin' feng shui baby. As a practice that's nearly 4000 years old it's based on the idea that your home has different energy depending on what you put in it - and where. Besides contributing to the overall organization and style of your abode feng shui is considered to have an influence on things like your cash flow your health and your love life.

Feng Huh?

Don't believe that moving some crap around will send Mr. Right your way? The great misconception of feng shui is that it largely involves rearranging furniture. But this is actually just the tip of the iceberg. Deborah Kagan Los Angeles feng shui expert shares some of her tips for dressing your nest:

Front Door

It's the gateway where you greet your life and where your life greets you. Always make sure all the knobs locks and hardware work perfectly and keep it bright and inviting.

Kitchen

Your stove is the energy generator of your life. Make sure to rotate the use of your burners allowing for an even distribution of opportunity in your life.

Bedroom

You spend a serious amount of time here and this has the greatest effect on your life. Make sure your bed has a solid headboard and do not store anything under the bed. Also make sure the bedroom home of the bed contains only the three R’s: rest romance and rejuvenation. This means no office exercise or stereo equipment allowed!

Home

Deborah also stresses the importance of keeping your space clean organized and clutter free. A cluttered space is a cluttered mind and that’s no way to launch into 2012.

Bathroom

Your can is also a major area that needs some attention as the energy in that space is constantly being flushed drained dripped and bathed away. A simple cure is to keep the bathroom door closed and toilet seat down every time you leave the space.

Could your home or office use a lift? Deborah is giving Healthy Bitches 100 off a personalized feng shui consultation. Visit www.deborah-kagan.com and use code: fod. Only valid for the one-pay option.

Do you feng shui? Tell us your secrets in the comments section below!

Beth Doane Contributing Writer
Beth is a fashion designer author and environmentalist who went from launching high-end European fashion lines to creating her own philanthropic fashion collection Rain Tees. Her line of tees funds school supplies for children in Central and South America and plants a tree in a tropical rainforest for every item sold. Beth’s consulting agency Andira International helps brands build sustainable ideas into products events and campaigns. Visit raintees.com for more information.

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Tips for Healthy Traveling

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Making Healthy Choices is Easy at Home. Eating Vegan While Traveling? Not So Much.

It’s peak travel season and schlepping your stuff around on trains planes and automobiles always tends to screw up your diet.

We’ve heard it time and again – “I was stuck in the airport and the only options were fried nachos and BBQ wings and I gave in.”

That’s BS. Don’t let this happen to you.

To stay plant-based while on the go it takes a little thought and preparation but not so much that you need to throw a hissy fit. Here are some common sticky situations and ways to cope.

Problem: You’re in the airport and all you see are pizza and burger places.

Solution: Go to the newsstand/convenience store – there you’ll find bottled water dried fruit and a package of almonds. Almonds are always a winner and there are enough calories in one package to keep you going through your next stop. If there’s no convenience store try a bagel from the café a package of granola or instant oatmeal from one of the fast food places.

Problem: You’re going off the grid where the main language isn’t English.

Solution: Buy a phrase book for the place you’re visiting – any phrase book written in the last five years will have a "dietary concerns" section. While you might like to think that veganism is the new hip thing food allergies have existed since the beginning of time. If there’s no chance to run to the bookstore download the free translator app on your Smartphone and learn how to say “I don’t eat meat eggs or dairy.” They’ll figure it out.

Problem: It’s the first night in a hotel in a foreign land and all the restaurants are closed.

Solution: Before you land your ass in this shitty situation make sure you pack some inexpensive essentials in your checked luggage. Our favs? Packages of almonds instant oatmeal a plastic jar of peanut butter and some kind of energy bar think Lara or Clif bars. It’s legal to take all these things in your luggage with you and it’ll save your ass when you’re starving at 3am.

Problem: You’ve done the research and there seem to be nil plant-friendly places in your vacation hotspot.

Solution: Don’t even think about living on processed Frankenfood out of the neighborhood convenience store. And just because you see a trusted American brand doesn’t mean that ingredients are the same everywhere – Doritos in Japan for example are made totally different than they are in the US of A. Get online check vegetarian forums and book a room with a small kitchen set-up. Once you arrive shop local for beans tofu tempeh and vegetables. If you’re going to a really remote locale try to find friendly English-speaking hotels where you can order room service or request kitchen services and pack your essentials for eating.

The Must-Dos:

Do request a vegan meal when you’ve booked your flight and call 24 hours before your departure to confirm.

Do research where you’re staying and find the plant-friendly places nearby. Thai Japanese and Mediterranean restaurants are good options.

Do learn a few phrases that will help you such as “Does this have milk/eggs?” and the words for “vegetarian” “whey” “meat” and “gelatin.” Even if this is all you learn it will help you immensely!

The Bottom Line

Sure it sucks to travel as a vegan sometimes but with only a few hours of preparation you can have a relaxing vacation and avoid shitty animal products.

Have vegan travel tips to share with fellow HBD readers? Let us know in the comments section below!

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

Hot Chocolate Martini Puff Pinwheels

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Nothing Says the Holidays Like a Little Indulgence

What's better than hot chocolate? Alcoholic hot chocolate of course.

Whip up a round with these to-die-for sun-dried tomato puff pinwheels and you'll be the talk of the holiday party circuit.

Grown-Up Hot Chocolate Martini

What You Need

2.5 oz. organic vodka
2 tbsp. vegan hot chocolate mix
2.5 oz. soy milk

How to Make It

Mix ingredients together pour into a martini glass and garnish with dark chocolate shavings.

Sun-Dried Tomato Puff Pinwheels

What You Need

1 8-oz. jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
1 tbsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. minced fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
Finely ground sea salt preferably gray salt
Finely ground black pepper
One 17.3-oz. box vegan puff pastry
1/3 cup pesto try our recipe
1/2 cup vegan butter melted

How to Make It

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Drain the sun-dried tomatoes in a sieve over a small skillet letting the oil collect in the skillet. Roughly chop the tomatoes and reserve them in a small bowl. Heat the oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until golden brown about 30 seconds stirring occasionally. Add the thyme and let it crackle in the oil for about 10 seconds. Add the balsamic vinegar and season to taste with salt and pepper. Pour the warm oil over the reserved tomatoes. Stir to combine the ingredients well.

Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Place one sheet of puff pastry on each baking sheet. Cut each sheet of puff pastry into 9 individual squares each about 3-by-3 inches. For each square use a paring knife to cut from each corner toward the center stopping 1 inch from the center. You will have a 1-inch circle in the center of each square and all of the corners will be cut in half.

Spoon about 1 tsp. of pesto in the center of each square and spread it into a 1-inch circle. For each square lift one half of a corner and fold it toward the center of the square gently pushing the point into the pesto. Continuing around the square fold 3 more corner halves toward the center of the square and gently press all 4 tips together to form a pinwheel shape. Draining away most of the oil place about 1 tsp. of the tomatoes where the tips meet. Brush the dough with the melted butter.

Bake at 350 degrees until the dough is golden brown about 20 minutes. Serve warm.

What are you whipping up for holiday appetizers this year? Let us know in the comments section below!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor

An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

What The Hell Do I Buy? Hair Dye

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

'Cause Toxic Fumes and Rashes Shouldn't Come From a Box

You're sexed up for that holiday party and doing a last glance in the mirror.

But wait—is that Adrienne Maloof-style tinsel in your hair? No it’s those dreaded early grays.

Depending on genetics stress levels and other factors you may have a lot or just a few—but we’ve all got them. Before you turn to your stylist or scavenge the local drugstore however you may want to know just what’s in your color.

Hair Horrors

As you probably guessed the products in hair dye are extremely toxic to your body and the environment. Hello the product boxes themselves warn you that their ingredients can cause skin irritation cancer and even blindness. The U.S. FDA warns that conventional hair dyes can cause respiratory problems hair loss facial swelling and itchy raw or burning skin. Plus they tend to also contribute to air and water pollution. Where do you think all that Burnt Sienna 7 goes when it runs down the drain?

What's In The Box?

Meanwhile you’re exposing your skin eyes nose and mouth to peroxides benzene ammonia toluene coal tar lead acetate resorcinol DMDM hydantoin and para-phenylenediamine a carcinogen. If you don't know what all those words mean I can sum it up as a whole bunch of nasty shit. Coal tar which is found in around 70 percent of conventional hair dyes is absorbed through the skin and can trigger allergic reactions. That’s why you’re supposed to do that annoying little patch test before you dye. But who actually does that?

Lovely Lead

Lead acetate is listed as a carcinogen by the state of California and is banned in cosmetics by the European Union. Besides disrupting your brain’s neurotransmitters and causing other problems it’s also able to cross both a placenta and embryo and cause fetal mortality. That’s why pregnant women are generally advised not to color their hair. Learn it and live it ladies.

Go Natural

The hair dye industry is one of the most researched because its products are so controversial. Countless consumers have suffered through adverse side effects. You can avoid being one of them and still kick what God gave you up a notch by finding a hair salon that uses natural products or doing it yourself with our favorite natural dyes. Try these out and you’ll be snapping FB-worthy NYE photos in no time:

Naturtint. Permanent 100-percent gray cover without ammonia resorcinol or parabens. Contains organic ingredients. I’ve been using this one for about five years and I get asked about it all the time. It delivers a rich color and lasts for five weeks. 17 at Whole Foods; also available on Amazon.com - I use 3N.

LUSH. Semi-permanent henna-based dye. Vegan and completely non-toxic. LUSH has four vegan hair dye colors all with names that start with "Caca" - yes the French word for poop. You have to leave these on a bit longer for better color but it can be a great option for brightening up your natural color or going a darker shade. 24.95 at LUSH.

Palette By Nature. A purely botanical line with both permanent colors and gray "blending systems." Most if not all products appear to be vegan and are free of chemicals and GMOs. 23.99 at Palette By Nature or Whole Foods.

The Verdict

Pros: Natural won’t make you asphyxiate while you’re applying them and they don't give your house that funky smell.

Cons: Some natural hair dyes may not be as intense or last as long as you’re used to. Plus henna-based dyes can take a long time to "set."

Do you have a favorite non-toxic hair dye? Help a bitch out and let us know in the comments section below!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications she does sales marketing writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics detoxing at the co-op scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

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Dear Vegan Celebs: Stop Being Lame

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Many of Our Favorite Vegan and Veggie Celebs Are Ditching Their Plant-Based Diets. Why?

Celebrities need to stop screwing up the sanctity of veganism.

Ok. Maybe that sounds a wee dramatic but seriously – if I hear about one more Hollywood ho who’s back on the meat train after publicly pledging allegiance to PETA and swearing off leather boots for life – I’m like gonna lose my shit.

Disappointing Drew

Haven’t heard? The latest A-list actress to ditch her vegetarian ways is none other than Drew Barrymore. Sweet doe-eyed little Drew. The 411 on her is that’s she’s eating meat again cause her beau Will Kopelman needs his "man food." The rationale for the switch given by an anonymous source kinda leaves me speechless:

“Drew loves taking care of Will which includes making home-cooked meals. She’d grill a steak for Will and then fix herself a bowl of rice and beans but that was a total drag.”

Aw really? You mean you don’t have a billion bucks to hire someone to cook for you? Rotten deal. As our friends at Ecorazzi put it: “Way to find a guy who supports your lifestyle Drew.”

Biggest Loser

Next on my shit list is Bob Harper. As a spokesperson for the “Walk for Animals” fundraiser for Farm Sanctuary PETA darling and public vegan why you gotta do us like that Bob? He recently made headlines when he dished on why he's no longer a vegan which pretty much broke my heart.

Apparently all it takes is a hot and gooey cheese pizza to wet his omnivorous appetite. “It was so good!”

While it's totally his business if his “body needed it” I can’t help but wonder if veganism wasn’t just a pit stop on the way to a healthier bod. In a 2010 Shape magazine interview he talked about how his switch to veganism came from his doc's warnings about his cholesterol levels. While that's all well and good it reeks of vegan trendiness - that phenomenon where people ditch the animal products with no intention of morally getting on board.

I won't lay into Natalie Portman who started eating animal products when she got pregnant but suffice it to say that many celebs keep disappointing us with their fickle food choices.

Soapbox Time

Yes we all have our own dietary needs. Yes veganism isn’t for everyone. Yes it’s OK to change your mind. But celebs who get on the bandwagon claim their choices are in support of animal rights voice their values loudly and publicly – and then go over to the dark side when Domino's come out with a 2-for-1 special? It’s totally killing my buzz.

Is going vegan something celebs do when they’re bored and need some attention? Are they trying to drop a few dress sizes before a big premiere? Do they just want to get healthy for a while?

And - more importantly - doesn’t it piss you off when someone as well known and rich as Drew Barrymore basically says that it’s too hard to stick with a plant-based diet? It’s not – even for us lowly folks in the real world.

If you wanna eat meat cool. Just don’t pretend to play for our team and bail out when the going gets rough.

What do you think of celebs that give up their vegan or vegetarian ways? Tell us in the comments section below!

Mara Tyler Managing Editor of HealthyBitchDaily.com
Mara Tyler is a health and wellness die-hard with a penchant for sarcasm. A former public relations and marketing professional she's helped grow bleeding-heart health and fitness startups into successful companies with the wave of her magic wand. When she’s not berating her friends for eating Big Macs or preaching to her family about the wonders of green smoothies she can be found reading bad chick lit scouting out new indie bands or attempting to find bliss in yoga. Mara lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Diet and Depression

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

The Link Between Food and The Blues May Be Stronger Than You Think

It’s full-blown holiday crunch time.

Do you deal with the discomfort of your dysfunctional family and shopping stress by calling upon cookies and wine?

Yeah. We've been there.

Food and the Blues

The holidays can be even more challenging for the one in 20 Americans that suffers from depression a chronic illness that usually requires long-term treatment with medication and counseling. Researchers are always looking into the oh-so-many factors that may influence depression such as biology hormones life events and childhood trauma. The scarcely-studied factor? Food.

Science and Stuff

A study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry in 2009 showed that the future risk of depression was greater for participants that consumed a diet high in processed foods and lowest for those that consumed a whole-foods diet. Another recent study at the University of Melbourne suggested that eating a standard Western diet - one that is high in meat dairy and preservatives - might increase the likelihood for depression by 50 percent. Step away from the cookie platter. Really.

Though further research is needed to understand why some foods may protect against or increase the risk of depression most scientists agree that a healthy diet helps as part of an overall treatment.

Not Guilty Your Honor

Food can significantly affect our moods even if we're not clinically depressed. Unfortunately most of us believe that the holidays give us a free pass to blow off our good-girl eating habits and exercise regimes. The delusion that our actions don’t have consequences we're talking your diet not that one-night stand with the cute bartender can start off that vicious cycle of eating poorly and exercising less which always leads to additional stress and more eating. Can’t a girl just enjoy her fruitcake?

Feel Good Foods

Luckily there are some foods that have been shown to help combat depression including the following:

Coffee. Studies suggest that the risk of depression is lower for women who drink over two cups of coffee a day. Can I get a hell yeah? If you're not into nature's bitter brew try one of our favorite coffee alternative drinks.

Saffron. A golden spice that has been found to have antidepressant effects similar to Prozac. But there are a lot of “fakes” on the market so buyer beware. To find out whether yours is the real deal immerse a tiny piece of it in warm water. If the water colors immediately then it's adulterated. Genuine saffron takes about 10-15 minutes of soaking before it turns a deep red color.

Chocolate. Antioxidants in chocolate may lower cortisol levels the stress hormone. Choose organic brands with a cacao content of 70 percent or higher.

Blueberries Oranges and Peppers. Good sources of the antioxidant vitamin C your immune system's best friend.

Nuts and Seeds. Good source of vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids - those hormone helpers that can fight fat and keep you sane during your cycle.

Carbs. Whole grains legumes fruits and vegetables help with the production of serotonin the mood-boosting brain chemical.

Supplements. Get your B12 and D to help regulate your moods. B12 has also been shown to help out with alcohol and sugar cravings. Um pass the pills.

Cope Time

Since hiding under your covers for the rest of the month ain't an option set realistic goals and expectations like accepting the fact that your family has no resemblance to the Brady Bunch. Don’t pack every day with activities - prioritize and make sure to save some time for yourself. Also avoid drowning your sorrows in the punch bowl – excessive drinking will only increase the blues.

Do you get the holiday blues? How do you cope? Let us know in the comments section below!

Susan Emmer FOOD Feature Editor
Susan is an eco-lifestyle expert certified whole health educator and refugee from the corporate media world. Earning an environmental studies degree before green was the new black Susan is the owner of Farmacy Agency a sustainability marketing social media and PR firm. Susan works hard to keep her two dogs in the life they’ve grown accustomed to and dreams of someday living on a ranch. Follow her on Twitter wellnewsnetwork.

Practice Makes Perfect

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Whether You Want to Tone Up Mellow Out or Sweat Bullets There's a Yoga Practice That's Right For You

It seems like yoga is everywhere these days.

There's so much of it in fact that it can be downright intimidating. What studio should I pick? What style should I practice? And - more importantly - where do I get cute pants?

Before you give up on the idea of ever being able to stand on your head here are the deets on some of the most commonly practiced styles of yoga - and which one might be right for you.

Bikram

A Bikram class is broken down into 26 asanas or poses done in a fixed sequence repeated twice over the course of 90 minutes. Given that it's done in a room heated to 105°F with 40 percent humidity you will sweat your butt off. No matter where you go the elements of Bikram will be consistent.

Pros: If you have wrist problems it's ideal given that chatarungas and vinyasa are not part of the 26 asanas. With all that sweating you're also releasing toxins and keeping your muscles warm.

Cons: The heated room creates fake body heat thus giving the sensation of a tough workout or intense sweat that didn't necessarily come from true physical exertion. Translation? Just cause you're perspiring like a man doesn't necessarily mean you're burning more calories.

It’s for you if: You want a maximum sweating sensation outside of a steam room.

Iyengar

Iyengar is the style of yoga most focused on alignment and anatomical precision in the poses. Each asana is held longer than average anywhere from 8-20 breaths and props such as belts walls blocks blankets and chairs are typically used as well.

Pros: If you are less athletic or sweat-phobic it provides a perfect platform for trying yoga.

Cons: You need ‘stuff’ to do it as Iyengar intended. If you are looking for a sweat or ‘moving meditation’ you could get impatient with Iyengar’s static nature.

It’s for you if: You don’t feel like moving around a whole lot but you want to do some toning for your muscles and spine.

Ashtanga

Until recently Ashtanga was the commonly-known style of yoga in the West. The asanas are broken down into six fixed series which are done in identical order every time much like Bikram. The difference lies in the focus on breath vinyasa linking breath with movement and sweat. Chatarungas or yogi push ups are the norm here.

Pros: It's the most athletic and cardiovascular toning form of yoga.

Cons: Given it is a set series it can get repetitive.

It’s for you if: You want a straight-up direct no-nonsense workout and don't feel like being surprised.

Yin

Yin yoga is the most ‘"relaxing" yoga in the sense of checkin’ out and gettin' your zen on. It consists of simple poses - more of the stretching kind - and links them with elements of Taoism. It has a more restorative angle and will leave you feeling open stretched blissed out but not very sweaty - almost like a massage without the masseus.

Pros: You can totally check out and just be on a mat relaxing in your own world.

Cons: It's not a workout in the traditional sense but you may feel sore the next day from the long holds.

It's for you if: You just want to stretch calm your mind and slow down.

Kundalini

Kundalini is one of the more metaphysical styles of yoga and is based on trying to awaken the secret energy in the spine which is believed to resemble that of a serpent. Through various meditations and movements you will strive to awaken this energy by unlocking the chakras.

Pros: It serves as mental/spiritual work more than any other fixed style.

Cons: It can get esoteric and if you are not ready for it frustrating.

It's for you if: You aren't sure what you're looking for but know you want a bit of everything until you find out.

The fun of yoga is trying different styles depending on your mood or your fitness goals. Check out different studios and instructors 'til you find one that jives with your style. It's like love - when it's right you'll know.

What style of yoga do you practice? Leave us your feedback in the comments section below!

Have a question for Lauren? Email us and we'll get your questions answered.

Lauren Imparato Fitness Contributor
In Spring 2009 Lauren resigned her job at Morgan Stanley to launch I.AM.YOU. a lifestyle brand and yoga studio in Little Italy Manhattan. Lauren teaches intense fun and athletic Vinyasa classes each set to a unique Music Mix designed by I.AM.YOU.'s Resident Mixologist. Lauren graduated with an Advanced Certification from Conquering Lion Yoga and received a secondary Advanced Certification from Kula Yoga School. She also has a Certificate in Advanced Studies Yoga Anatomy is a graduate of the Institute of Integrated Nutrition and accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. She holds an Intermediate Level Certificate from the International Wine Center and a BA from Princeton University in Romance Languages and Literatures. Tweet Lauren IAMYOUstudio or follow her on Facebook.

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Grapefruit Sugar Cookies

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Give Your Holiday Cookies a Twist With Tangy Grapefruit

These gluten-free treats use garbanzo bean flour applesauce and potato starch.

Serve them with some hot buttered cider or peppermint hot cocoa!

What You Need

2/3 cup Earth Balance Vegan Butter Sticks at room temperature
1/4 cup sugar
Egg substitute for 2 large eggs
3 tbsp. chunky applesauce
2 tbsp. freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice
2 tbsp. grapefruit zest
1 1/2 tsp. gluten-free almond extract
1 1/4 cups potato starch
1 1/4 cup garbanzo bean flour
1 cup tapioca flour
2 tbsp. ground flax seeds
1 tsp. sea salt
3/4 tsp. xanthan gum
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cinnamon

How to Make It

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large mixing bowl combine Earth Balance Vegan Butter Sticks and sugar until fluffy. Add in egg substitute applesauce grapefruit juice peel and vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl add remaining ingredients and mix to combine. Add to wet mixture; mix until smooth approximately 2 minutes. Using your hands form batter into golf ball-sized shapes. Place on a baking sheet and then into the oven.

Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven; set aside to cool before serving. Makes 24 cookies.

Have you tried this recipe? How did it turn out? Let us know in the comments section below!

Amie Valpone Food Blogger

The gal behind The Healthy Apple Amie Valpone HHC AADP is a Manhattan-based culinary marketing consultant specializing in gluten-free "clean" eating. Amie is also a culinary nutritionist spending time with clients as a Food Allergy Concierge and Pantry Stylist in the big apple of Manhattan and publisher of the all-new gluten-free online magazine Easyeats.com.

Torture and Tears

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

HBD Sent One Reader to Farm Sanctuary's Conference to End Factory Farming. Here is Her Story...

In October a group of professionals activists and concerned people got fired up about animal abuse.

As someone who considers herself pretty savvy about the issues I expected to simply be energized to do more and have the honor of meeting some of my heroes in the movement. Mission accomplished. What I didn’t expect was to cry like a baby and blow up my Twitter account with facts and figures I just couldn’t keep to myself.

Higher Education

So where to begin? Many people know that there are three basic reasons to boycott factory-farmed products: animal welfare environmental impact and your own health. What you may not know is how you could be supporting factory farms on a daily basis - without even knowing it.

Animal Welfare

Do you tout the virtues of buying organic meat and dairy? Animals are treated inhumanely regardless of whether they are raised organically or not. And what does “cage free” even mean? Only that there is access to outdoors. Freedom awaits the hen that can use her deformed detoed feet to climb over thousands of other birds. If she makes it out the tiny door she could get a chance to peck at the ground with her amputated beak. Aaah the life of a cage free hen – those lucky birds!

Environment

Okay so you drive a hybrid you have water savers on all your faucets and you have the sexiest set of recycling bins on the block. Big whoop. The biggest threat to our water air quality and land is - you guessed it - factory farming. Where these torture communities move into town all hell breaks loose. If you really want to make a difference in keeping the planet clean the best step you can take is to ditch the meat dairy and eggs. No excuses.

Health

You already know the dirty deets on eating this crap. Animal protein is full of artery-clogging cholesterol and fats and is virtually devoid of minerals and vitamins. But what about protein? This battle cry is such old news it's ridiculous.

First of all Americans eat way more protein than is needed and we suffer from way more health problems as a result. Second there is plenty of protein in all the good stuff. For every 100-calorie portion size there are 10 grams of protein in broccoli 7 grams in romaine lettuce and 7 grams in kale - and those are just veggies. If you are eating enough calories you’re getting enough protein.

The Bottom Line

In the name of money factory farms hurt our planet abuse our animals and disease our bodies. And don’t let the price fool you. When you factor in the cost of healthcare in this country directly associated with food-related illnesses like obesity diabetes and heart disease this ain’t cheap meat.

Change is Possible

No matter which health issue you feel most connected to we should all have a common goal to rid our world of this kind of devastation and abuse. We are in a time now where big agriculture is nervous and they are working hard against legal actions and activist work to change their atrocious ways.

As you learn more share what you know - and take action. Our world depends on it.

What will you do to help end factory farming? Tell us in the comments section below!

Samantha Robinson Guest Blogger
An animal lover since childhood Samantha’s path to veganism grew from a concern for the treatment of farm animals - whom she believes are individuals and every bit as sentient as our dogs and cats. She and her family visit Farm Sanctuary as often as they can to visit their adopted farm friends – a sheep pig cow duck and turkeys! Samantha and her veggie husband and two veggie children live in Tampa.

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Spice World

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Winter Spices Not Only Jazz Up Your Food But They Fight Colds Help Digestion and Improve Circulation

Feelin’ frigid?

When winter hits it hits hard and below the belt. Warming up those popsicle toes and frostbitten cheeks can seem utterly impossible. What's worse? Being cold never looks cute – we scrunch up our shoulders layer on the bulky clothes and tend to eat our way to warmth with comfort foods.

The good news? These winter-y spices can warm you up while also protecting you against some of winter’s major health challenges. So skip those '80s ear muffs and start experimenting with spice:

Allspice. Not just for fruitcakes or men's deodorant this spice delivers a variety of flavors that can ‘warm’ up the taste of any soup vegetable dish or baked good while also packing heat for you. It promotes digestion and lends anti-inflammatory effects to your weary winter bod.

Cinnamon. While we're not giving permission to go overboard the addition of cinnamon – which acts like insulin - to your winter treats hot cocoa butternut squash soup baked sweet potato will help the body’s cells absorb sugar i.e. carbs so it doesn’t stay too long in your blood. Pass the snickerdoodles!

Red Clover. Whether you're trying to avoid that nasty cold or actually dealing with flu/cold symptoms this spice helps soothe frayed nerves and aid your respiratory system. Add red clover to cooked vegetable medleys grilled vegetable salads and even tacos.

Comfrey. Snuggle up with this spice for its multitude of healing benefits which include improved digestion and elimination of trapped mucus. Bye bye snot factory. You can even make it into a nighttime tea with some honey for those times when a stuffed nose a cough or a bellyache threaten to keep you from your best Z's.

Nutmeg. This warm sweet spice can enhance the flavor of any winter dish. But it’s also your kitchen's best-kept energy secret aiding the adrenals to give you a better chance at optimal energy when combined with the right foods.

Oregano. It ain't just for spaghetti. Oregano oil taken as a daily supplement - or at the first sign of a cold - helps fight off the bad bacteria that wants to take you down.

Peppermint. Soothing and relaxing peppermint helps raise your internal temperature when consumed as tea. Capture the most benefits by placing a lid or saucer over your tea cup to steep for at least five minutes. But steer clear if you suffer from acid reflux or are taking homeopathic remedies.

Before you raid the neighbor's herb garden be sure to check with your doc if you're preggo or are taking medications for anything. Happy warming!

What are your favorite winter spices? Leave us your feedback in the comments section below!

Have a question for Ashley? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com and we'll get your questions answered.

Ashley Koff R.D. Resident Dietitian
Named among the Top 10 Registered Dietitians in the U.S. by Today’s Dietitian Magazine Koff appears regularly on national media outlets including Dr. Oz The Doctors Good Morning America Health CNN AOL and E!. Koff is also the dietitian for espnW and the featured dietitian on the CW’s “Shedding for the Wedding” and Lifetime’s “Love Handles.” Koff maintains a private practice regularly lectures and works to improve the quality of food choices on the sets of popular shows such as Private Practice CSI: New York Big Love It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Bones. Her book Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged Hay House 2011 hits stands later this summer. For more information please visit AshleyKoffRd.com.

Living With A Carnivore

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Tips for Getting Your Man to Give Up The Meat

My boyfriend loves his hot wings.

But living with me he knows how I feel about dead animals on the dinner table. And while he’s become pretty damn health-savvy since he met me - I swell with pride just thinking about it - there are still times when living with a carnivore can be a bitch.

Dinner Drama

Whether it's the roomies the husband or the kids some people just won’t get on board with the weird tofu shit. Can’t a guy get some steaks up in here? While you may be far from turning the whole household on to your tree-hugging meat-bashing style it is possible to make a dent.

Here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way:

1. Get friendly with flavor. If your meatless dishes taste like bland shitty cardboard even you aren't going to eat them. If you want him to try new stuff you gotta give it some kick. Double up on spices fresh herbs and don’t be afraid to make nutritional yeast your best friend. Use onions and garlic like they’re going out of style. One of my secret weapons? Cayenne pepper. When his mouth's on fire and he's crying like a little girl he won't be able to say shit about vegan food not being "fulfilling" enough.

2. Feel It Up. Texture can be one of the trickier things to replicate in vegan dishes - rubbery fake meat "cheese" that won't melt etc. But it's not impossible. Did you know that raw cashews can basically make a creamy paste for anything from pasta sauce to salad dressing? It’s effing amazing. You can mimic a crispy burger by frying up falafel patties. Ricotta cheese can be replicated with crumbled tofu butternut squash and spices. There are so many ways to get creative with texture so don’t be lazy. If it tastes good and feels good going down he'll eat it - even if it's not mooing.

3. Vegan Versions. Vegan taco night is like Christmas in my house. We fry up meatless crumbles with taco seasoning shred some vegan cheese pop open the faux sour cream and load up on the lettuce and salsa. My boyfriend stuffs his face until he can't move and I feel the righteous pride of domestic victory having made a vegan version of one of his favorite foods. If you can't find a vegan version make one up. Decide what flavors and textures you need to replicate to make a decent meat-free version. "Man" food like Mac n' cheese chili burgers - they're all still within reach. When he learns that going vegan does not equal deprivation he'll see the light.

4. Allow Free Days. In our house my boyfriend is meat-free Monday through Friday. But will I tell him he can't have his wings and beer with his pals during guys night out? Hell no. I’ll totally make fun of him when he’s constipated the next morning but he’s a big boy and can make his own decisions. Give him a free day or two. He can get his ass in the backyard and grill those steaks to his heart's content but you won't go near that bullshit. Nine times out of ten my man will forgo a turkey sandwich for my leftover tofu scramble anyway.

5. Shopping Trip. Truth time? Men are lazy. They also don’t like to ask for help. If you want your guy to get into plant-based eating take him shopping and show him where to find stuff. Chances are he doesn't have a clue where to locate nutritional yeast gluten-free bread or even the tofu. If you can show him where to find stuff you can send him on a grocery run with confidence and he’ll actually know what the hell he’s doing. This goes for your personal care and cleaning products too.

6. Get in the Kitchen. Remember when you were a kid and you felt all proud when you helped cook dinner? Grab your dude don some girly aprons and be sure to take pictures for blackmail purposes and have him help. When he makes something close to edible he'll be too damn giddy with pride to even remember that it's meatless. Put him in charge of dinner a couple nights a week with the only caveat being that it has to be meatless. If he's a typical dude he'll get off on the challenge of making something that will please you.

Do you live with a carnivore? What's your biggest challenge? Tell us in the comments section below!

Mara Tyler Managing Editor of HealthyBitchDaily.com
Mara Tyler is a health and wellness die-hard with a penchant for sarcasm. A former public relations and marketing professional she's helped grow bleeding-heart health and fitness startups into successful companies with the wave of her magic wand. When she’s not berating her friends for eating Big Macs or preaching to her family about the wonders of green smoothies she can be found reading bad chick lit scouting out new indie bands or attempting to find bliss in yoga. Mara lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Affordable Presents That Don't Suck

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

It's Here: Our Ultimate Gift Guide of Cheap and Cool Stuff. Plus Get FREE Loot From Our Friends at Afterac!

Tired of buying stupid crap?

It's the time of year when you're running around the mall scooping up the usual tchotchkes for the weird…er diverse group of people on your list. Let’s see there's your conservative grandma your bratty niece your impossible-to-read sister-in-law and your food snob boss.

Gift This

Chill. It doesn’t have to be hard this year. We’ve compiled a gift list for everyone on yours. The best part? You won’t find a thing on this list over 25 bucks. So don’t sweat it sweetheart. Get shopping.

For the Coffee Snob

Liga Masiva Coffee 14.99 per bag. Think a Starbucks gift card is gonna cut it? Think again – Liga Masiva Coffee is organic direct trade coffee grown in the Dominican Republic. What’s so special about it? Instead of changing hands 13 times and driving up the cost this coffee changes hands twice. It’s putting the power back in the hands of the farmers and more importantly giving you a buzz.

For that Weird Person Who Doesn’t Like Coffee

Rich Mexican Hot Cocoa Mix 12.99. It’s okay – not all of your loved ones can be perfect and for that weirdo who doesn't like coffee here’s a delish hot chocolate. Made with soy and chili powder for an added kick this sweet brew will keep you warm and toasty during all the holiday drama.

For the Sweet Tooth

Vegan Gluten-Free Chocolate Truffles 9.00. Made with dates coconut oil and cocoa powder this box of truffles will get your mouth watering way more than that box of crap that you can buy at the mall. Super Foxy Sweets uses organic and raw ingredients whenever possible and this sampler includes plain cocoa peppermint chili-cinnamon-blood orange pistachio-cardamom apricot-lemon-ginger coconut sesame and hazelnut. Yum.

For the Gal Who Loves Products

Acure chlorella growth factor pomegranate night cream 19.99. Haven’t heard of Acure Organics yet? Founder Kristy Guerra started the company to honor her grandmother who battled breast cancer giving profits to the cause. Other than being good for you with no parabens or animal products this stuff smells really effing good.

For the Dude

PETA’s “Eat No Cow” shirt 20. Made famous by Bob Harper who sadly ain't vegan no mo' and also worn by Sir Paul McCartney in the music video for “Nod Your Head” this soft gray shirt will look great on your guy.

For the Bookworm

Skinny Bitch Home Beauty & Style: A No-Nonsense Guide to Cutting the Crap Out of Your Life for a Better Body and a Kinder World 20.00. Look vegan or not – everyone wants to know a little more about cutting toxic crap out of their lives. From the sneaky flame-retardants on our mattresses to the scary cancer-causers in our air fresheners and candles everyone’s looking for a way to live a little greener. Kim’s latest book does just the trick even for the non-vegan.

For the Tot

Tofu the Vegan Zombie toy 24.95. Here’s the deal: “Tofu is a friendly zombie created from a botched experiment in Professor Vost's laboratory. As a result Tofu eats only vegetables and grains and has no taste for human meat. However if Tofu ever loses his ‘tofu-brain’ he turns into a dangerous zombie creature craving human flesh.” Need we say more?

For the Trendy Teen

Faux Feather Hair Extensions 6.00. Yeah Steven Tyler may have looked cool rocking feathers in his hair in last season's American Idol but what most people don’t know is how many roosters are regularly killed solely for these feathers. Get your trendy teen these synthetic ones which look just as cool and are cheap to boot.

For the Wine Lover

2008 Chateau Veronique Chateau Bousquette 15.99. You may know that lots of spirits ain’t exactly vegan think animals bones in the fermentation process but that doesn’t mean your friends do. For the wine lover in your posse pick up this bottle of red made from certified organic grapes and feel free to have a toast.

For the Fitness Buff

Gaim Zen Garden Print Yoga Mat 21.98. Yeah we’ve all seen the yoga mats in pink and blue and the like – never confuse your mat with the bitchy show-off's next to you with this pretty eco-friendly mat.

For the Person That Has Everything

Lifeline Ultimate Survivor in a Bottle 18.00. This BPA-free bottle from Afterac comes stuffed with goodies like a flashlight first aid kit poncho waterproof matches compass whistle and carabiners - for when you're scaling cliffsides to avoid the post-apocalyptic zombies that are chasing you of course. Why wouldn't you want one of these for your trunk storage closet or backpack?

Bitchworthy: Afterac is giving away three 3 FREE Lifeline Ultimate Survivor in a Bottle sets to HBD readers! To nab one of these in time for Christmas simply tell us why you want one in the comments section below! Happy Shopping!

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

Related Stories:

What The Hell Do I Buy? Lip Balm
What The Hell Do I Buy? Coffee Replacement
What The Hell Do I Buy? Vegan Cheese
Gifts That Rule

Candy Cane Cookies Giveaway

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Enter for Your Chance to Win Carolyn Scott-Hamilton's New Cookbook!

Ditch your complicated cookies for something fun festive and easy this year.

What You Need

2 1/2 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegan butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 egg replacer
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 teaspoon liquid red food coloring

How to Make It

Pre-heat oven to 350° F.

Mix flour and salt together set aside.

In a large bowl with an electric mixer beat butter until creamy. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy. Beat in egg replacer vanilla and peppermint extract then lower mixer speed and gradually mix in the flour mixture beating just until blended. Remove slightly more than half of the dough from the bowl and set aside. Add the red food coloring to the remaining dough and beat until evenly mixed and colored.

For each candy cane scoop out 1 teaspoonful of the plain dough and 1 teaspoonful of pink dough. Roll each dough portion between your hands to make a 4-inch rope. Twist the ropes around each other like a Barber Pole and shape into a cane shape. Arrange cookies on a greased baking sheet about 1 inch apart. Bake for about 8 minutes until firm to the touch. Makes about 2 dozen.

Bitchworthy: We're giving away three 3 copies of Carolyn Scott-Hamilton's new cookbook The Healthy Voyager's Global Kitchen to HBD readers! For your chance to win tell us about one of your favorite holiday cooking traditions in the comments section below. Bonus points if you make us misty-eyed.

UPDATE: We've chosen our winners! Congrats to Jackie Robin & Sage!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor

An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

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Eggplant Fries
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What The Hell Do I Buy? Lip Balm

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Don't Just Slather Any Old Crap On Your Pucker Princess

It’s the time of year when our lips betray us.

No not by spilling our secrets after too many hot toddies at the holiday office party but by chapping cracking splitting flaking and bleeding.

This time of year our lips rebel because of nasty winter weather and all that comes with it: blustery winds reduced humidity and forced hot air indoors.

Dirty Mouth

In one of life’s cruelest twists however the crap you’re putting on to save your lips can actually harm them further - setting you up for addiction or dependency. Conventional lip balms can contain petroleum also called petrolatum mineral oil and alcohol. These beauty offenders dry out the lips creating a vicious cycle of needing to apply more to get the desired effect. Petroleum also keeps the lips from breathing so it can actually make your lips more chapped.

Who wants that when you're trying to look cute under the mistletoe?

Cancer Anyone?

Other scary ingredients include toxins like titanium dioxide most commonly found in products with SPF which is carcinogenic especially with the ultrafine particles found in cosmetics – they end up in your lungs and phenol which is a formaldehyde substitute used in embalming. It can lead to liver damage anemia and diarrhea.

Other Offenders

You’ll also find the usual suspects in lip balms: parabens which are endocrine disrupters and have been found in breast tumors. And while they may seem natural and non-toxic stay away from menthol and camphor as they're the common culprits that cause dryness irritation and flaking or peeling skin. Not pretty!

Don't Pout

So what’s a ski bunny to do? Opt for a vegan non-toxic lip balm and your kisser will be ready for the NYE ball drop in no time. Here are some we've tried and love:

The Merry Hempsters Vegan Hemp Balm

Made from organic cold-pressed hempseed oil and plant-based wax it comes in a range of flavors from vanilla to peppermint to orange and it's super hydrating. 3 at www.merryhempsters.com

Eco Lips Bee-Free

Their vegan balm is only available in lemon-lime but if you don’t mind beeswax they make other flavors like orange spice and coconut ginger. It’s 70 percent organic and made of plant-based wax and cocoa butter which leave lips soft and supple. 3-4 at www.ecolips.com

Lip Fix Lip Balms

With a base of sunflower and jojoba seed oil this one is extra lush. It’s 72 percent organic and comes in three flavors: pomegranate spearmint and unflavored. If you’re looking for a very emollient balm this one’s for you. 4 at www.myhairfix.com

The Verdict

Pros: They work great and don’t set you up for a petroleum addiction. Plus what’s on your lips eventually ends up in your mouth — so make sure it’s non-toxic.

Cons: They don’t seem to come in pretty colors but we're sure someone is working on that!

Bitchworthy: For a homemade quick fix store some coconut oil in a small jar that you can toss in your purse. It does wonders for your pucker and your face.

Do you have a favorite non-toxic lip balm? Help a bitch out and let us know in the comments section below!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications she does sales marketing writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics detoxing at the co-op scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

They Slaughter The Horses Don't They?

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Haven't You Heard? Horse Meat is Making its Way to a Table Near You

Did your mother ever serve horse casserole when you were growing up?

Yeah mine didn’t either.

But soon enough it may not be that far from our dinner tables.

Not My Pony!

Americans have historically rejected horse meat as food. And while you may think everyone else in the world is on board with us they’re not. Horse meat is regularly eaten in France and Italy. In Japan the ears are even considered a delicacy! Barf. Sadly those countries may not be on their own for long. On November 18 Obama signed a law that allows Americans to kill and eat horses.

We wish we were kidding.

The Real Deal

Since 2006 the U.S. has said that no taxpayer money can be spent to regulate or inspect horses being transported for slaughter. That little law goes hand-in-hand with the 1996 law that requires inspection for any meat intended for human consumption. “Inspection” must be a loose term for them though considering all the nasty salmonella outbreaks that have come from factory-farmed animals living in grievous conditions.

Explanation Please

So what does that mean? It means in the U.S. horse slaughter was not illegal but that horse slaughter for human consumption was. But now that ban on slaughter for human consumption has been lifted.

Does that mean what you think it means? Afraid so sister. If Congress decides to fund inspection for horse slaughter you could be seeing an equine burger at your next dinner party. Um gross.

Whoa Nellie

Oh and just because horses aren’t killed for food now doesn’t mean they’re treated any better. Did you know that trucks transporting horses in the United States are allowed to leave them in the dark without food or water for up to 28 hours at a time? And this happens way more than you think – since horses can’t be slaughtered here they’re often carted in these trucks to Mexico and Canada where it’s legal hunched together for days at a time.

Bad to Worse

Even worse to think about is that opening horse slaughterhouses in the States means we’ll be getting all the problems that come along with factory farming – waste runoff stench land devastation and nearly 200000 horses slaughtered each year. All made possible by your tax dollars.

Curious as to why Congress would lift such a ban? We are too. After all polls have consistently shown that Americans highly oppose horse slaughter – often by 70 percent or more.

Old News

So the average American knows that horses aren’t food – and they’re pretty up in arms about this. Join the club. We’ve been pissed for a while about the murder of our furry friends. Factory farming is inhumane and nasty in every form. We can only hope that Congress will rethink this decision and spare our horse friends – and all our animal friends – as soon as possible.

Do Something

Want to do more? Get off your ass and write to Congress to oppose horse slaughter now.

What are your thoughts on lifting the horse slaughter ban in the U.S.? Let us know in the comments section below!

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

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No Laughing Matter

The Vitamin Conundrum

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

What Pills Are You Popping? And Do You Really Need Them?

I eat well. I don’t need no stinkin’ supplements.

Used this excuse before? Sorry to burst your bubble but not all vegans and vegetarians eat a balanced diet. Yeah you know who you are.

Special Needs

Numerous studies have shown that a plant-based diet can significantly reduce risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes heart disease and cancer. But before you get all self-congratulatory about your dietary discipline you should know that vegans may be at risk for deficiency in a ton o' other stuff: calcium vitamin B12 vitamin D zinc riboflavin and essential fatty acids.

Food vs. Supplements

Many of the nutrients needed for a healthy vegan diet can be found in food sources. The one exception is vitamin B12 a critical component in red blood cell formation and DNA production. Symptoms of B12 deficiency include fatigue shortness of breath dizziness numbness heart palpitations nausea poor appetite diarrhea and anemia. To avoid feeling like you’ve been run over by a Mack truck it’s important to get your fix of this key vitamin.

The Right Stuff

Though primarily found in animal products B12 is also present in certain plant foods such as soy nori and chlorellla. The problem for vegans is that B12 from plant sources is not as biologically active and therefore not as easily utilized by the body as the B12 from animals. Not to worry. You can get a boatload of B12 by eating the right foods - cereals brewer’s yeast non-dairy milks and tempeh - or by taking a B12 supplement. Try Garden of Life or Deva.

Other Important Nutrients

What are the other power players that every veggie or vegan should be vigilant about? So glad you asked.

Calcium: Needed for many bodily functions calcium also keeps those bones and immune system strong. Instead of eating nasty-mucus dairy products get your calcium from soy products legumes almonds sesame tahini dark leafy vegetables and calcium-fortified orange juice.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D regulates the formation of bone and the absorption of calcium. There is also growing evidence that low vitamin D levels contribute to cancer and autoimmune disease. Good ol' sunshine is the best source of vitamin D so get your booty off the couch and go for a walk without any sun protection for 15-20 minutes a day But don’t even think about substituting a tanning bed for the real thing missy. During the winter months you’ll most likely need vitamin D supplementation so aim for 1000 – 2000 IU of D2 D3 is more easily absorbed but the main source is animal.

Zinc: This essential trace mineral boosts thyroid and immune system function. Get it from soybeans and soymilk fortified breakfast cereals nuts breads mushrooms peas wheat germ and pumpkin seeds. Most people need 8-15 mg daily.

Riboflavin: Also known as Vitamin B2 riboflavin is required for the proper development and function of skin lining of the digestive tract and blood cells. Almonds fortified cereals mushrooms and soymilk are rich sources. Riboflavin has also been shown to help prevent migraine headaches and cervical cancer.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Studies have shown that EPA and DHA - two types of fatty acids - have the most health benefits including reducing the risk of heart disease. DHA is especially important since it's the primary fatty acid in the human brain - deficiency has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. The best food source of EPA and DHA is seafood but vegans can opt for flaxseed hemp walnut soy and canola oils or take 500 mg a day in supplement form. Some good vegan omega-3 brands include Opti 3 and Deva Vegan Omega-3.

Pill Popping

So what's the verdict on supplements? Most health experts agree that you should probably be popping a pill - even if your diet is flawless. There are enough toxins in our air water and environment that a multivitamin can be helpful to your bod. A few things to remember:

Check expiration dates since vitamins lose their potency over time.

Pair supplements with food. Nutrients work in conjunction with each other and you’re also less likely to get a tummy ache.

Avoid fat-free diets. If you are taking any fat-soluble vitamins like D or A you need to have some fat in your meal to enhance absorption.

Ask your doctor before popping any new pills. Supplements can interact with prescription and over-the-counter OTC medications.

What pills are you popping? Give us a shout on Facebook or let us know in the comments section below!

Susan EmmerSusan Emmer FOOD Feature Editor
Susan is an eco-lifestyle expert certified whole health educator and refugee from the corporate media world. Earning an environmental studies degree before green was the new black Susan is the owner of Farmacy Agency a sustainability marketing social media and PR firm. Susan works hard to keep her two dogs in the life they’ve grown accustomed to and dreams of someday living on a ranch. Follow her on Twitter wellnewsnetwork.

Stay Away From My Chocolate

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

There's More Than One Reason We Go Cuckoo for Candy Bars.

It was loved by Mayan royalty kept secret for hundreds of years by the Spaniards and adored by the French.

Like many naturally miraculous things however we humans have managed to destroy it.

We're talking chocolate baby. In its raw naked form it really wants to be your new best friend. But only if you solemnly swear to eat it as nature intended.

The Science

Raw chocolate or cacao when unprocessed and free from a scandalous list of naughty fillers colorants and other ingredients is ridiculously great for us.

With more than 300 chemically-identifiable compounds cacao can be extremely healing and potent - it's got more antioxidant flavanols than green tea blueberries and acai while also packing protein healthy fats calcium iron and carotene just to name a few.

Free Radical Fighter

Need another reason to indulge? Raw cacao's antioxidants work to fight the damaging effects of oxidative stress on our cells. If we don’t antioxidize properly our immune systems suffer and can’t fight free radial damage. Girrrl pass the mousse.

Don’t Touch Imitations

Before you run out and burglarize a Hershey factory think twice about the chocolate you've probably been chowing your entire life. The sugar dairy preservatives and other gross things added to most chocolate products are to blame for the sick fat and not-so-pretty side effects of a candy binge. The trick is to stick with the raw stuff so you get the best source of magnesium chromium and other super nutrients.

Keepin it Raw

When chocolate is heated above 42 degrees Celsius the power nutrients start to die off offering nothing more than the promise of a fat ass. If we keep the cacao unheated it preserves the antioxidants vitamin C and other goodies like serotonin and phenethylamine - that sexy neurotransmitter that makes us feel all warm fuzzy and chill. We even get some nice omega-6 fatty acids which some scientists say can help with weight loss. Yeah you heard that right.

Drink it Up

Drinking our nutrients is one of the best ways to increase absorption. The blending process breaks down food so effectively that when it reaches the tummy it's pre-digested and almost instantly absorbed. The result? Energy a sexy glow and a better body obvi.

Check out this deliciously divine raw cacao recipe from wellness and fitness expert Molly Kujawski of Empowerment Fitness:

Cocoa Bliss

What You Need

1 cup of organic coconut milk
1 tbsp of raw organic cacao powder
1 banana
3 large leaves of chopped swiss chard or 2 large handfuls of spinach
1 tbsp chia seeds optional
1 tsp agave or other natural sweetener optional
Ice

How to Make It

Place the coconut milk cacao powder and banana in blender and blend. Add swiss chard leaves or spinach chia seeds and sweetener. Blend again. Finish by blending with the ice until the liquid is smooth. Feel the bliss!

Do you get hiiiiighhhh on raw chocolate? Tell us how you incorporate cacao into your recipes in the comments section below!

Beth Doane Guest Blogger
Beth is a fashion designer author and environmentalist who went from launching high-end European fashion lines to creating her own philanthropic fashion collection Rain Tees. Her line of tees funds school supplies for children in Central and South America and plants a tree in a tropical rainforest for every item sold. Beth’s consulting agency Andira International helps brands build sustainable ideas into products events and campaigns. Visit raintees.com for more information.

Eggplant Fries

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Potatoes Don't Stand A Chance Next to This Dish

These gluten-free fries are the perfect finger-food appetizer to impress your friends...

Serves 2-4

What You Need

1 tsp. coconut oil
2 tbsp. white balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup green tea brewed and chilled
Juice of 1 fresh lemon
1/3 tsp. sea salt
Leaves of 5 fresh thyme stalks finely chopped
1/4 tsp. paprika
1 large eggplant
3 tbsp. ground flax seeds

How to Make It

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large bowl combine coconut oil balsamic green tea lemon juice sea salt thyme and paprika; mix well to combine. Set aside.

Slice eggplant into 1/3 inch "fry-like" slices. Dip each eggplant slice into balsamic mixture to coat. Place eggplant slices onto a baking sheet or roasting pan. Sprinkle with flax seeds and toss lemon wedges on top.

Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven; set aside to cool for 2 minutes.

Serve warm with fresh tomato sauce pesto or hummus for dipping. Enjoy.

Have you tried this recipe? How did it turn out? Let us know in the comments section below!

Amie Valpone Food Blogger

The gal behind The Healthy Apple Amie Valpone HHC AADP is a Manhattan-based culinary marketing consultant specializing in gluten-free "clean" eating. Amie is also a culinary nutritionist spending time with clients as a Food Allergy Concierge and Pantry Stylist in the big apple of Manhattan and publisher of the all-new gluten-free online magazine Easyeats.com.

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Shitty Scenarios

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0800

You Want to Be Vegan But Life Gets In The Way. Here's How to Cope With Those Crappy Situations.

The holidays are coming which means cuter clothes yummy food and a boatload of BS from your relatives.

While most people get psyched at the chance to cruise the holiday party circuit you’re having freakin’ heart palpitations just thinking about all the crap you’ll have to deal with – your mom’s remarks about your “strange plant diet” sitting at your boss's carnivore holiday dinner or trying to pick food for your own parties without everyone in attendance talking shit about your dirty animal-rights-activist habits. Don’t worry babe. We’ve got you covered for every shitty scenario in the book.

The Shitty Scenario: You’re invited to a holiday dinner where meat is the main act.

We've all been there. How do you politely decline a pork chop without pissing off your mother-in-law or alienating your husband's boss? First of all remember that it's not always necessary to share the fact that you've got some non-traditional eating habits. If it's Christmas dinner with your family they probably already know this but your new neighbors might not need the info. If you suspect that you might be wining and dining with a rack of lamb make sure to eat some protein beforehand load up your plate with veggies and side dishes and stash a snack in your purse. If you feel like it's appropriate - and won't insult the hostess - you may also want to volunteer to bring a vegan dish. Problem solved.

The Shitty Scenario: You’re in the cafeteria with thirty minutes to scarf lunch that will keep you going through the 5 p.m. meeting but you don’t know what creepy shit is lurking in the food.

When faced with a buffet of suspicious-looking mashed potatoes weird meat options and a quivering gelatinous dessert your best bet is to identify the three safest-looking dishes and ask what’s in them. While the mashed potatoes may be cooked with chicken broth the salads and bean dishes are probably safe. But when in doubt always ask. Did you know Chili’s cooks their steamed vegetables in butter? Because it doesn’t say so on the menu. If there isn’t a person in sight to answer your questions here are your must avoids: soup almost all are made with chicken broth bread/baked goods most have eggs or anything with gravy.

The Shitty Scenario: You’re planning your wedding/birthday party/celebration shin-dig and you don’t feel comfortable serving dead animals.

You don’t want to come off as preachy to guests but you sure as hell aren't paying for factory farmed animals on your special day. Luckily for you even the most traditional catering companies offer vegan options now and it won’t leave your guests bitching about your uptight ass. If you want to go all-out companies like Seedling Organic Catering in Los Angeles offer crazy-delish vegan food that will leave your peeps oohing and aahing. Think warm chickpea salads Tuscan white bean soup sweet corn millet and brown rice croquettes topped with jalapeno tofu cream and olive tapenade and a tart raspberry sorbet for dessert. Hear anyone complaining? Good we didn’t either.

The Shitty Scenario: You’re starving have less than ten minutes and all you see around you are coffee shops and convenience stores.

Don’t freak out. You’re in good hands. The café will have a soy latte and some kind of fruit cup or granola bar minimum. Starbucks has a number of vegan drink options um can you say Soy Mocha with no whip? and their plain and multigrain bagels granola bars and molasses cookies are all sans animal products. The convenience store if you really luck out will have a piece of fruit pretzels or original flavor Pop Chips. For a real treat on a time crunch sample 7-11’s vegan options. If you’ve landed your ass in the middle of nowhere even licorice Swedish fish and Clif Bars are vegan.

The Shitty Scenario: You’re at a party and a nosy bitch eyes your plate and says “Oh God – you’re not one of those weird vegan people are you? Where do you get your protein? And there’s no way you can be getting enough calories. I heard that it’s really unhealthy.”

For starters don’t even think of going into how healthy your cholesterol levels are or how you’ve got so much ra-ra energy that you don’t know what to do with it. There are a number of diplomatic ways you can handle this but our favorite? Smile politely “Yes I am one of those weird vegan people” and take a long look at her food. Then if you’ve got the guts look from her food to her ass. She won’t ask you about protein again.

What are your Bitch Tips for stressful holiday situations? Let us know in the comments section below!

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

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The 3PM Crash

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Too Pooped to Pop? Snack on The Right Stuff To Avoid a Meltdown

Whatever happened to siesta hour?

Especially during this time of year we could seriously use an afternoon snooze. Whether you're partying like a rock star burning the midnight oil at work or just trying to get through another day that 3PM crash totally ruins your momentum.

Eat Up Stay Up

Thankfully Mother Nature’s pantry is chock-full of foods that will help you recharge your battery. Keep these on hand to help you get through yet another frazzled holiday season - it’s as easy as learning your ABCs.

A is for Apple. Yes the good old apple. It’s not just a beacon of brown-nosing - its carbs fiber water and nutrients provide immediate energy. When paired with nut butter protein and fat for sustained energy your boring old apple will pack an energy punch.

B is for B vitamins. Several of these puppies improve energy and alertness from the inside out. Try taking your multivitamin with Bs or a B-complex supplement at lunch to prevent the afternoon crash. Stock up on whole grains like oats and brown rice to get more B vitamins as well.

C is for Caffeine. Use it strategically not to amp yourself up like a crazy person. Dose up before a workout and it will not only help alleviate the impending fatigue but rev your engine for a good workout. Use quality sources of caffeine like organic coffee teas or coffee alternatives and monitor your portion size. You know who you are frappacino fiend.

D is for Dandelion and/or Dark Greens. These greens help the liver stay clean and make your digestive tract more alkaline. What’s that got to do with energy? Everything! A clean system is a more efficient and energetic one. Hint: dandelion can be bitter so offset it with a sweeter taste like dates or pomegranate and drizzle walnut or avocado oil over it for some healthy fats.

E is for Energy Shots. While many are loaded with junk we wouldn't eat if our lives depended on it there are a few that can actually do the trick we like Kombucha shots from Celestial Seasonings with organic ingredients B vitamins beneficial yeast to aid digestion and some carbs for quick energy. Pair a K-shot with some almonds for a quick portable energy solution.

F is for Fiesta. As in have a fiesta full of flavor to avoid a binge later on. Too often we eat something boring because “it’s good for you” at lunch and then pig out later to fill the caloric void. Instead of the same old salad do lunch up fiesta style – add some spices to your dish and play with healthy fats like guacamole hemp pesto or coconut spread to make your meals a reason to celebrate thanks to great flavor.

G is for Garden. The secret to better energy begins with eating natural quality foods like those that come from a garden. Vegetables not only help us feel full and make our plates look pretty but they also deliver antioxidants – plant-based nutrients that help clean up our insides for optimal function and sheen!

For more tips on how to sustain optimal energy at any point in the day check out Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged. Still need more help? Leave us your questions in the comments section below!

Have a question for Ashley? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com and we'll get your questions answered.

Ashley Koff R.D. Resident Dietitian
Named among the Top 10 Registered Dietitians in the U.S. by Today’s Dietitian Magazine Koff appears regularly on national media outlets including Dr. Oz The Doctors Good Morning America Health CNN AOL and E!. Koff is also the dietitian for espnW and the featured dietitian on the CW’s “Shedding for the Wedding” and Lifetime’s “Love Handles.” Koff maintains a private practice regularly lectures and works to improve the quality of food choices on the sets of popular shows such as Private Practice CSI: New York Big Love It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Bones. Her book Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged Hay House 2011 hits stands later this summer. For more information please visit AshleyKoffRd.com.

Gifts That Rule

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

These "Presents WIth A Purpose" Are Way Cooler Than The Crap You Normally Buy

Did you oversleep on Black Friday?

If you still have a list of loot to buy why not forgo that boring gift card or box of chocolates for something more meaningful? Our favorite gals at Loving Eco have us covered.

Deals for the Eco Diva

Each week the sales from LovingEco - a website where you can score amazing deals think 70 off! on eco-friendly fashion and beauty products - support important environmental and social causes like Global Green USA International Fund for Animal Welfare Wholesome Wave Farm Sanctuary and many others.

Ho Ho Help Out

This week anything you buy supports Village Empowerment - an organization that helps create sustainable villages in Africa through education and local volunteers. Here are some of our favorite treasures to get your holiday creativity juices flowing:

Exclusive Stand Up To Cancer Bracelet

In honor of the life and work of film producer Laura Ziskin 100 percent of net proceeds of this limited edition hand-crafted exclusive bracelet go to Stand Up To Cancer. Member Price: 44.95

White Lotus Stainless Steel Water Bottle

If you haven't ditched your plastic water bottles it's seriously time to get with it. EarthLust eco-friendly bottles are hand made from high quality food-grade stainless steel which is naturally safe unlined. They use non-toxic paints and BPA-free safe caps to boot. Member Price: 12.60

Sprout Cream

Sprout Cream starts with wild-harvested shea butter from an incredible Fair Trade women's cooperative in Ghana. Organic extra-virgin coconut oil and organic extra-virgin olive oil make it rich and luxurious for your winter lizard skin. Member Price: 24

Sprout Vegan Lip Balms

A girl's gotta have her lip balm. Sprout uses only absolutely essential ingredients for all of their products so there’s nothing going on your mouth that shouldn’t be going in your mouth. Member Price: 13.50

Eco Sunglasses by Summer Rayne Oakes

These sexy and fun sunglasses are made from 95 percent recycled materials. Who can say that about their shades? Member Price: 105

Sheila Odessey’s Platinum Clutch

A perfect accessory for any cocktail dress - made with duct tape and dry cleaner bags - this clutch makes a statement that you're totally into saving the earth. Member Price: 77

The Leakey Collection Bracelet

A unique handmade gift by the Maasai women in Africa Fallen Acacia hardwood is hand burnished to gemstone quality. Plus it's super cute. Member Price: 18

Recycled Key Chain

Made from stainless steel this sucker will last a lifetime - while making a great statement to potential boyfriends about your values. Member Price: 8

To nab these gifts and find even more treasures sign up for a free membership at LovingEco.com

What will you be giving this holiday season? Tell us your gift ideas in the comments section below!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

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Eater's Remorse

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Did You Overdo It On Thanksgiving? Try This Short and Sweet Post-Binge Workout To Combat The Guilt

Did you gobble gobble your way into your stretchy fat pants over the weekend?

If so it's time to make up for your sins. This post-Thanksgiving workout is short and sweet - so get your ass back into your workout gear and hop to it.

What's on tap? You have three moves:

1. Burpees with a push up
2. High plank alternating leg lifts
3. Wall sit with core twist

Your goal is to go from one exercise to the next as quickly as you can! Do 10 rounds total and 20 reps for every move. You must do all the reps in each set before continuing on to the next move. No cheating!

1. Burpees

Start with hands up by shoulders and your feet directly under your hips. Make sure toes point forward. Sink into a deep squat and be sure you keep those six-pack abs held tight. Inhale. As you exhale press as mush force as you can through your ass and into your heels and lift as high as possible into the air. Land softly.

Then take your hands to the ground directly below your shoulders. Jump your feet back so you land in high plank. And as quickly as you can drop to the bottom of your push up position. Do one push up. Then press back to the top of the push up.

Hop your feet back under your hips so you are back into your starting squat position. Do it all over again!

2. High Plank Alternating Leg Lifts

Start in a high plank position with hands directly below shoulders. Core crazy tight. Slowly lift one leg up without bending at the knee or losing control of your abs. Slowly return your leg to starting position.

Then repeat on the other side. Remember - 20 reps total friends! Each leg lift is one rep. Also if your wrists bug you simply come onto your forearms instead into a low plank. If that's tricky drop to your knees.

3. Wall Sit With Core Twist

Start by finding any wall you wish - and drop it like it's hot! Scoot your booty down that wall so your legs are burning. Do not allow your butt to go any lower than your knees. Press your back against the wall and squeeze your abs.

Then with or without a weight reach your arms out in front of you. Keeping your core tight like Mario Lopez's buns rotate to the side hold and slowly return center. Repeat on the other side. End by rotating for a total of 20 reps. Each side is one rep. If this move is a trickster do it standing.

Remember it's a really short workout so bust your ass girlfriend!

Next time we'll ask our hot male model to remove his shirt.

Tweet me AngelaParkerFIT to keep me posted about your successes and challenges. I'll be sure to give shout-outs spicy tips and tricks awesome advice and motivation!

Do you have a burning fitness question for Angela or a topic you want her to cover? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com.

Angela Parker Resident Fitness Guru
As the founder of bodyinspiredfitness.com Angela believes that it’s possible for everyone to live a truly healthy happy and vibrant life. She recently wrote and published her first book 90–Days to a Stronger Body & Deeper Connection with Your Daughter available exclusively on Amazon.com. Angela's unique at-home program encourages mothers to inspire their daughters ages 7 to 18 to create a lifetime of being fit and healthy. Angela can now be seen every Tuesday night on MTV's new hit show "Chelsea Settles" as Chelsea's trainer.

Leftover Scrambled Hash

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Turkey Day Leftovers? Mix 'Em Up for Breakfast!

Black Friday just got yummier.

Toss your stuffing and Tofurkey into a skillet to make some morning magic...

What You Need

16 ounces extra firm tofu pressed and drained
1 teaspoon canola oil
2 tablespoons white onion finely chopped
2 green onions finely chopped
1/8 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup leftover stuffing
1 cup leftover vegan turkey diced or chopped

How to Make It

Loosely crumble tofu into bowl.

Heat oil in medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and saute until slightly translucent about one minute. Stir in scallions turmeric and soy sauce and cook until combined about 20 seconds. Add tofu and stir-cook until evenly colored and still slightly moist 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Do not let tofu dry out or overcook.. Add in the stuffing and vegan turkey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

What are you up to this Thanksgiving weekend? Shopping? Eating? Nesting? Let us know in the comments section below!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor

An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

5 Tips for a Fuss-Free Thanksgiving

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Eat Some Food Have Some Laughs and Leave the Drama at the Door

It's that time of year again.

Yep 'tis the season for widespread bird genocide and shouting matches with relatives.

Oh wait that’s just in my family?

Happy Thanksgiving?

Despite all of our good intentions handling the holidays can be tough shit. We know we’re supposed to be grateful and stuff but it’s easy to get our feathers ruffled and stress out over the details: Did I burn the green beans? Am I overdressed to meet my boyfriend’s parents? Will Aunt Bethanie get drunk and tell inappropriate stories again this year?

Get Your Tryptophan

Hold the phone. Before you tailspin into a blushing set of hives remember that today is a day to be thankful. While the whole killing-turkeys and forcing-Indians-off-their-land part of the holiday kind of blows today serves as a reminder to slow your pace gather with loved ones and remember what – and who - makes your life worth living.

Tip List

Whether you're gathering with pals or hosting a formal shebang here are a few tips to help make your Turkey Day fuss-free and fabulous:

1. Run Your Mouth Off. We probably don't have to tell you that being vegetarian or vegan on Thanksgiving is a bitch. Insert jokes insults and generally ignorant comments from carnivores here. What to do? Come armed with some snappy responses for those "Why don't you like meat?" comments that are bound to fly around. Explain that you’re not interested in eating the dead flesh of a living creature or consuming the milk and mucous that’s folded into those creamy mashed potatoes. You don’t need to go all Oprah on their asses but having a comeback or two up your sleeve can help ease those tense moments around the cheese platter.

2. Have Options. If you’re committed to a meat-free Thanksgiving make sure you’ve got options baby. Offer to bring a vegan dish if you’re going to dinner at someone else’s house. If you think it’s rude to show up with your own food don't. Being vegan falls under the category of a “dietary restriction.” We wouldn't make Celiac Disease Cindy eat dinner rolls now would we? Make that plate of tofu and eat it with pride sister. Worst case scenario? Fill up with a big lunch early in the day and bring a protein-based snack to munch on if you get hungry after the meal.

3. Make Your List. Gratitude lists are so trendy. But they’re amazing I tell you. What better day to create one than today? Seriously. Sit down and come up with five things you’re grateful for. Keep it in your pocket to consult when you’re on the verge of strangling a family member.

4. Get Your Sweat On. We’re not going to tell you that a morning jog justifies an epic binge - but exercise sure as hell helps with the guilt. Get your butt to the gym the track or in front of your kickboxing DVD before you settle down with the snack bowl. You’ll release tension calm your dome and feel way more entitled to that second glass of wine.

5. Lean on Us. We’re all in this together. If you haven’t been utilizing us it’s time to get your shit together and start talking to your HBD family. Leave us comments on the site chat with other members and send us an email if you’re in lost in lonely vegan world today. We can relate.

With that said go forth! Eat Tofurkey. Smile laugh and find something to be thankful for today. Also look out for a Thanksgiving leftovers breakfast recipe to hit your inbox tomorrow!

What do you love or loathe about being a vegan or vegetarian during the holidays? Let us know in the comments section below!

Mara Tyler Managing Editor of HealthyBitchDaily.com
Mara Tyler is a health and wellness die-hard with a penchant for sarcasm. A former public relations and marketing professional she's helped grow bleeding-heart health and fitness startups into successful companies with the wave of her magic wand. When she’s not berating her friends for eating Big Macs or preaching to her family about the wonders of green smoothies she can be found reading bad chick lit scouting out new indie bands or attempting to find bliss in yoga. Mara lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Sweet-Scented Doom

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Your Cheerful Scented Candles and Air Fresheners Have a Dark Side

Vanilla Bliss. Pumpkin Spice Delight. Crisp Winter Magic.

The fragrance industry has us wrapped around their fingers. After all who doesn’t want the house to smell like sugar cookies or pecan pie?

Sick Season

It’s the time of year when candles become central to our dinner tables and hearths. Cheesy holiday-themed air freshener commercials tug at our heartstrings If my guest bath smelled like pine trees all would be well in my world.

But don’t go falling for that shit just yet.

Facts and Figures

A recent study from Emory University in Atlanta and the Atlanta Allergy & Asthma Clinic suggests that air fresheners are an allergy attack waiting to happen. The chemical additives can trigger asthma cold symptoms lung problems and reproductive complications. Most popular household air fresheners were found to contain formaldyhyde phalates and even chemicals that were linked to impaired genital development.

Seriously. Get your kids away from the scented plug-ins.

Candle Magic

Feeling smug cause you already swore off air fresheners? Switching to scented candles ain’t any better babe. Most commercial scented candles contain a laundry list of nasty crap. Experts at the American Lung Association contend that these bad boys are one of the biggest offenders when it comes to indoor air quality and seasonal sickness.

Lead in Your Head

So what’s the big deal with burning your Berries and Cream tealights? Lead among other things. Candles made with metal wicks can cause lead emissions which are then deposited in your home for your continued enjoyment. Lead exposure can lead to serious health complications - cancer auto-immune disorders organ damage and other fun stuff. Plus your kiddies are picking it up and eating it when they touch the walls carpet or furniture and then stick their hands in their mouths. Yum.

Labels Shmabels

Not all scented candles or air fresheners are going to kill you. But the labels aren’t going to tell you much either. That’s why it’s important to use your head. With candles avoid ones that have wicks with a shiny metal center. Opt for cotton or paper wicks instead. Also be wary of slow-burning candles – these tend to have more additives. Another thing? If burning a candle creates a smoky film around the ring of the jar toss that shit. It could be an indication of lead dust.

Healthy Scents

Don’t worry. You don’t have to give up your favorite holiday scents. There are plenty of vegan non-toxic candles on the market. Look for soy-based candles or buy them online to ensure you're safe.

Addicted to your air fresheners? Get an oil diffuser instead. Blend a few drops of essential oils like peppermint cinnamon or eucalyptus and you can create your own non-toxic signature holiday scent.

Do you know of a good natural/vegan candle company? Tell us in the comments section below!

Mara Tyler Managing Editor of HealthyBitchDaily.com
Mara Tyler is a health and wellness die-hard with a penchant for sarcasm. A former public relations and marketing professional she's helped grow bleeding-heart health and fitness startups into successful companies with the wave of her magic wand. When she’s not berating her friends for eating Big Macs or preaching to her family about the wonders of green smoothies she can be found reading bad chick lit scouting out new indie bands or attempting to find bliss in yoga. Mara lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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Lotion Commotion

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

What The Hell Do I Buy? Moisturizer

Lather up baby.

By now you probably know that skin is your largest organ. It’s designed to act as a barrier to the outside world kinda like those huge sunglasses and earbuds you sport on your morning jog.

Penetration Problem

But the super strong chemicals in most moisturizing products are like dirty dude creepers at the bar - they get under your skin. Sixty percent of substances applied to the skin are assimilated into the body—whether that’s self-tanner cosmetics skincare or semen. Yeah we’ve heard about that trick. While it won’t get you knocked up it’s probably not the best moisturizer out there.

I'm Parched

As temperatures plummet and holiday parties abound your skin can get a bit parched. Afternoons on the slopes and too many cocktails at night can be oober dehydrating – but don’t turn to just any product to get your gorgeous face back in balance.

Cheap and Slick

Putting profits ahead of product most commercial moisturizing manufacturers cram their products with cheap ingredients that give them a long shelf life. They contain synthetic and toxic elements that can damage and paradoxically dry out your skin. And with the frequency with which most women lather up this can lead to extreme toxin overload. Ingredients in some moisturizers have been linked to allergic reactions reproductive failure birth defects and contaminated breast milk. And those are only the ingredients that have been tested.

Regulations My Ass

Industry investigations reveal estimates that 90 percent of the ingredients in the products women use have not been tested. Even scarier the FDA doesn't regulate personal-care products or require any sort of testing before they're sold. The industry is supposed to regulate itself but we all know how well that works out. Wall Street anyone?.

Slather Solutions

So while you may think that your sparkly cellulite cream is a GD miracle-worker it may be damaging your skin and your body - and aging the crap out of you. No bueno. Skin is supposed to act as a detox organ. When you’re slathering it in toxic chemicals it can’t do its job.

Show your skin some love with these Bitchworthy natural products:

Mineral Fusion Skin-Balancing Facial Moisturizer: It’s vegan hypo-allergenic never tested on animals and free of glutens artificial colors and parabens. Best for normal skin types it’s a creamy moisturizer that dries cleanly. It smells great and works on hands too. 25 at online retailers Whole Foods and other health food stores.

Pure Life Soap Co. Aloe and Vitamin E Cream: This one is great for every day wear. Aloe helps reduce redness and gives you that nice firm feel. It's not too greasy and with coconut and mint you kinda want to eat it. 7.49

Suki Moisture Rich Cleansing Lotion: Lazy girl meet your new moisturizer. This one acts as a cleanser and lotion all in one. Amazingly soft and feels like you're rubbing butter on your face. If you're prone to breakouts from overwashing or dry skin this one might be a good option. Note however that it does contain traces of beeswax so stay away if you're a strict vegan. 26.95

For body lotions check out the 100 pure line. With scents like Honey Almond Key Lime and Strawberry Lemonade we're happy to grease up.

The Verdict

Pros: Vegan and chemical-free lotions tend to be much cheaper than expensive department store creams that claim to work miracles. They usually aren't greasy feel lightweight and can solve skin woes you didn't know were being caused by the chemicals in your other crap. Seriously. You'll be amazed.

Cons: Some of these types of moisturizers tend to need re-application more often. Also they don’t claim to make you 10 years younger but we'd rather not get cancer from chemical-laden products anyway.

Final Answer: Stick with natural products that actually work with your skin instead of against it.

Do you have a favorite moisturizer? Help a bitch out and let us know in the comments section below!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Fish Guts and Chardonnay

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Would You Like a Side of Animal With Your Wine?

You might want to pour yourself a cocktail.

Hell you could also be tempted to switch to straight-up Vodka once you learn about the hidden ingredients in your wine.

What’s Vegan Wine?

If you've been dairy and meat-free like a good girl it could be time to examine what's lurking in your liquor cabinet. There is a such thing as vegan wine and it's a lot less gross than what you could be pouring at your dinner parties gals. So what’s the problem with your yummy velvety merlot or buttery Chardonnay?

The Forecast is Clear

To grasp what really makes a wine vegan - and why non-vegan wines are kinda disgusting - you need to understand one of the processes involved in winemaking. We’re not talking about Lucy and Ethel stomping on grapes here. In order to prevent wine from being “cloudy” vintners use a method called fining to remove solid impurities such as grape skins stems and proteins from the wine. Fining involves adding substances called “fining agents” to the wine to chemically bond with any unwanted particles floating around - like the leaves in a swimming pool. These larger and heavier molecules then sink to the bottom of the barrel leaving behind a better looking - and better tasting - wine.

Smells Fishy

The problem? Sturgeon bladders boiled cow and pig hooves egg whites and ox blood. Sounds like a magical potion from Hogwarts but these animal products are some of the fining agents used by winemakers. "Bulls blood” sangre de toro was outlawed as an additive in European wines after the mad cow disease outbreak in 1997. Good idea!

Stop Wine-ing

No need to bitch about having to give up Mommy's sippy cup though since winemakers have come up with animal-free fining agent alternatives to appease even the strictest vegan freaks. One such substitute is bentonite a natural clay found in Wyoming that is popularly used in California wineries.

PETA Approved

Fact is delicious vegan wines aren't that tough to find. So why bother with the other crap? Check out this guide that lists wines in alphabetical order letting you know if they are vegan friendly or not. PETA suggests using this directory which lists wines by country of origin and brand name. Too lazy to go to the store? The following companies sell vegan wines with the click of a button online: China Bend Winery Fitzpatrick Winery Frey Winery Organic Vintners Organic Wine Company or Thumbprint Cellars.

What Should I Look For?

If you're hitting TJ's or the local store make sure you check the wine label for the word “vegan” duh! or “unfiltered.” It’s important to remember that some vintages of a specific wine may be suitable for vegans while other vintages from the same producer may be a no-no because of the filtering agents used that year. If you're not sure your best bet is to call or email the wine manufacturer and ask.

Do you have a good vegan wine recommendation? Let us know in the comments section below!

Susan Emmer FOOD Feature Editor
Susan is a certified whole health educator and coach treading on both wellness and green terrain. Earning an environmental studies degree before green was the new black Susan is the owner of the sustainability marketing and PR firm Farmacy Agency. Follow her on Twitter wellnewsnetwork.

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These Ain't Your Grandma's Recipes

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 09:02:00 -0800

Try These Mouth-Watering Meals and Savory Side Dishes at Your Holiday Table

Forget your boring-ass mashed potatoes and dull green bean casserole. It's time to shake things up.

With the help of our two favorite Recipe Queens Amie Valpone of The Healthy Apple and Carolyn Scott-Hamilton of The Healthy Voyager we rounded up some unique and delicious twists on traditional Thanksgiving comfort food to impress your guests - or to whip up any other time of the year! Happy cooking...

Pumpkin Pecan Pie Pancakes
By Carolyn-Scott Hamilton

Serves: 2-4

Forget pumpkin pie! Whip up these delicious pancakes after dinner or on Thanksgiving morning.

What You Need

5 tablespoons vegan butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 cup pecan halves
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup silken tofu firm pressed and drained
4 egg replacer powder EnerG not mixed as it will be done in the recipe
2/3 cup vegan buttermilk 1 cup plain soy milk with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar set aside to curdle for at least 15 minutes
1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup pumpkin puree
Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Maple syrup for serving

How to Make It

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium-low heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until the sugar begins to melt. Add the pecans and cook for 2 more minutes. Transfer the pecan mixture to a small dish and set aside. Reserve the skillet for the pancake.

In a small bowl mix together the flour pumpkin pie spice sugar and salt. Set aside.

Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. In a large bowl add tofu buttermilk vanilla and melted butter and blend with a hand mixer until well blended. Gradually whisk in flour mixture. Stir in the pumpkin puree.

Beat the egg replacer powder in with the appropriate amount of water listed in the directions on the box until soft peaks form and gently fold into the mixture. Gently spoon the batter into the reserved skillet. Sprinkle the top of the pancake mixture with the reserved pecan mixture. Bake until golden brown.

Dust the pancake with confectioners’ sugar. Cut into wedges and serve with maple syrup.

Mashed Potato Tots
By Carolyn-Scott Hamilton

Serves: 4

Kids and grown-ups alike will love this twist on mashed potatoes. Serve as an appetizer or make with your leftover spuds.

What You Need

2 cups cold mashed potatoes
1 egg replacer mixed
3/4 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese
1/2 cup green onions chopped
1/4 cup faux bacon bits
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
High heat oil for frying

How to Make It

Place the mashed potatoes in a bowl; let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Stir in the egg replacer cheese onions and bacon bits. Shape into 1-in. balls and roll in bread crumbs. Let stand for 15 minutes. In a cast iron or electric skillet heat 1 inch of oil to 375°. Fry potato balls a few at a time for 2-1/2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. Serve warm.

Blackened Tofu With Pumpkin Sauce
By Amie Valpone

Serves: 4

This main dish is a great alternative to Turkey that still gives you that comfort-food Thanksgiving feel!

What You Need

1 red bell pepper diced
1 small red onion diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon oregano
Pinch red pepper flakes
Sea salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 cup canned pumpkin
3 cups canned diced tomatoes
1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons coconut milk
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 pound extra firm tofu
3 cups long-stem brown rice cooked

How to Make It

Coat a large saucepan with nonstick cooking spray. Sauté peppers onions and garlic over medium heat until soft about 2 minutes. Add herbs and spices and sauté additional 2 to 3 minutes or until mixture becomes aromatic. Add pumpkin and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes. Add Worcestershire sauce and coconut milk; continue to cook for 5 more minutes.

Slice tofu into 8 slices. Coat each slice with 1/2 teaspoon chili powder. Place olive oil in a separate large sauté pan and sear tofu over medium heat until golden brown on each side.

Serve 2 slices tofu with 1/2 cup brown rice and 1/2 cup pumpkin sauce.

Tofu Vegetable and Bean Salad
By Amie Valpone

Serves: 4

The freshest ingredients make this salad aromatic beautiful and filling.

What You Need

1/2 teaspoon sea salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 large head romaine lettuce chopped
1/2 cup cucumber diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper diced
1/4 cup yellow bell pepper diced
1/4 cup carrots shredded
1/4 cup red onion diced
3/4 teaspoon fresh oregano chopped
2 teaspoons fresh basil chopped
3/4 cup tomato diced
3/4 cup cooked white beans
1/2 cup cooked garbanzo beans
1/2 cup hearts of palm chopped
1 block extra firm tofu drained rinsed and cubed
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
2 tablespoon ground flax seeds

How to Make It

In a small bowl combine sea salt and pepper. Add sesame oil and beat well. In a large bowl combine remaining ingredients. Add dressing and gently toss. Divide equally into bowls. Enjoy!

Is there a dish you're excited about serving this Thanksgiving? Let us know in the comments section below!

Gobble Gobble

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Join Ellen DeGeneres This Thanksgiving in Sponsoring a Turkey

Save a turkey. Eat your tofu.

That’s what Ellen DeGeneres is pleading millions of Americans to do this Thanksgiving.

Once again the talk show-host-slash-vegan-poster-gal has teamed up with Farm Sanctuary to ask people to stuff their faces with something more compassionate this holiday season—and put their money toward a better collective effort than Black Friday.

For the Love of Bird

For just 30 bucks you can sponsor a turkey and brag about it to your friends with a special-edition Adopt-A-Turkey certificate that features a color photo and stats about your new bird. For 180 you can sponsor an entire flock and have adoption letters sent to family and friends. Apart from rescuing Antoinette Elizabeth Skip Payton Amelinda and Raphael—just a few of the turkeys up for adoption this T-Day—from becoming somebody’s dinner your donation also makes it possible for the “birds of honor” to enjoy a feast of squash cranberries and pumpkin pie during Celebrations FOR the Turkeys at Farm Sanctuary’s New York and California shelters.

Straight Stats

Since 1986 Farm Sanctuary’s Adopt-A-Turkey Project has saved more than 1000 turkeys placing approximately 600 into loving homes throughout the country. Awww.

Every year about 250 to 300 million turkeys are slaughtered in the U.S.—more than 46 million alone during Thanksgiving. The treatment of turkeys is a classic tale of factory farming cruelty—birds are packed by the thousands into dark warehouses where they are given about three square feet of space to move. They are debeaked and detoed without any anesthesia and sent off to be slaughtered after just 14 to 18 weeks of age. To top it off turkeys and other birds are excluded from the Humane Slaughter Act why?! which lawfully states that animals be stunned prior to slaughter.

Cruelty-Free Table Toppings

Hesitant to swear off turkey? After all Thanksgiving is the one time of year when you feel comfortable shoving anything down your throat. Check out Farm Sanctuary’s Thanksgiving Recipe section for a library of dee-lish appetizers main dishes sides gravies dressings and desserts. Also stay tuned for this Friday's Thanksgiving Recipe guide on HBD. You can check out some of last year's recipes we ran here.

Turkey Wars

Got awesome culinary skills? Submit your own vegan recipes for the opportunity to be featured on Farm Sanctuary’s website and Healthy Bitch Daily. Just leave us a comment with the recipe no measurements necessarywe'll email you if we want the whole shebang. Deadline is Friday November 18.

Bitchworthy: Turkeys know their geography. They can learn the specific details of an area of more than 1000 acres.

To sponsor a turkey visit adoptaturkey.org or call the Turkey Adoption Hotline at 1-888-SPONSOR.

Also Farm Sanctuary is giving away three 3 free Tofurkeys to our HBD readers! For your chance to win tell us how you make your Thanksgiving table cruelty-free in the comments section below!

UPDATE: We've chosen our winners! Congrats Jenny Ashley & Kat!

Carly Harrill Co-Founder of HealthyBitchDaily.com

A writer with a big mouth Carly taps into mainstream media and the entertainment community to educate the everyday woman on making small changes that are better for her body and the earth—both on and off the plate. Carly is also the head of strategic partnerships for Healthy Child Healthy World the nation's leading environmental health non-profit designed to protect children from environmental toxins.

Chew on This: Kim's New Radio Show

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Our Favorite Health Guru is Hitting The Airwaves! Listen Free Every Thursday

Some celebrity health experts just won’t give it a rest.

Seriously Dr. Oz aren't you tired of saving marriages yet?

This time however we couldn’t be happier about it.

Is This Thing On?

Kim Barnouin is at it again. Her latest endeavor? Taking over the airwaves of course.

Last Thursday Kim and celebrity chiropractor and naturopath Dr. David Friedman hit the mics with the premiere of their new radio show“Chew on This!” Together they’re going to help you make sense of the latest health news – and probably bust your gut while they do it.

Food for Thought

“Chew on This “ is brand new tell-all segment on ToYourGoodHealthRadio.com that will dive into those topics too controversial for most health radio shows to explore what’s truth and what’s media-frenzy mumbo jumbo. The upbeat tell-it-like-it-is tone is reason enough to tune in: no uppity medical jargon or BS – just the straight deal on topics that concern you.

News they dished about on the first show? The link between antibiotics and childhood obesity the dangers of red meat and why certain countries have higher instances of colon cancer to name a few. Kim's been a guest on Dr. Friedman's shows before - and now she's got a starring role every week.

While she may be the “poster child of sassiness” a term coined affectionately by Dr. Friedman she also knows her shit.

So whether you're wanting a refresher course or just need a way to kill time in your cube check out the show and let us know what you think.

Tune in to "Chew on This" every Thursday at 1:00 p.m. EST by going to www.toyourgoodhealthradio.com

You can also listen to podcasts of Kim's previous shows with Dr. Friedman by clicking here. Happy listening!

Related Stories:

Check Out My Interview With Vegan Consultant!
Watch Me Cook with Kathy Lee & Hoda on the Today Show
Kim's Curry Tofu Egg-Less Salad

Turkey Day Trades: Eat This Not That

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Make Some Simple Swaps to Cut Calories and Stay Cruelty-Free This Thanksgiving

Despite leaving the turkeys to roam free does Thanksgiving still mean stuffing your face?

We thought so.

This time of year tends to mark the beginning of a holiday season that ends with a brutal wake-up call January 2nd: a cringe-worthy number on the scale a puffier body and a holi-daze hangover that only a New Year’s cleanse can rectify. But it doesn’t have to be all or nothing this Thanksgiving. With these "trade" secrets you can celebrate eat and be merry without paying for it with extra pounds later on.

Trade 1: Calories

Yes you are fabulous and yes you deserve all the goodness in the world. But no matter who you are and what you aren’t putting on the table for Thanksgiving it doesn't mean you can go overboard in other areas.

Identify where you will get your carbs proteins fats and then add non-starchy vegetables to fill up the rest of your plate on Turkey Day. If you have three favorite carbs reduce your portion size of each to have one to two servings total.

Need help? Download this free Nutrition Plan to see where your holiday foods fit into this equation.

Trade 2: Preparation

You got in your workout you’ve been eating well all week and you even logged in some extra z's to prepare for Thanksgiving festivities – congrats you’ve started the preparation trade! Add these trades to reduce body puffiness without compromising on taste.

Trade regular vegetable broth or canned soup for ½ water and ½ low sodium organic veggie broth. Also add plenty of fresh spices instead of salt.

Use avocado and banana in your desserts for added potassium that will pump water directly into your cells.

Trade your old pots and pans for stainless steel 360 cookware - pans that require only a splash of water. Cook at low heat to keep all the nutrients and taste in your veggies.

Trade 3: Fat

Before you start bitching we aren’t suggesting you skip your fatty favorites but you can make some trades so that you get the biggest flavor bang without the guilt trip.

Instead of gravy try making cashew chili lime vinegar dressing using fresh lime juice and chili flakes. Blend with just a few soaked cashews for a creamy texture.

Roast your vegetables instead of frying them to trade out the extra fat in the pan and on your backside. Make a yummy marinade with mustard and vinegar to add some flavor without the calories.

Trade 4: Sweets

Yeah we know we can swap out sugar for stevia or use real fruit instead of jam but then our holiday treats start to look like a diet gone horribly wrong - and that’s no winning trade. Relax. Have some sugar sweetie. Use organic coconut palm sugar organic sugar and other quality sweeteners – but account for your sweet and skip the added sugars where they don’t belong.

Serving a loaf of bread or buying a store-bought cranberry sauce? Check the labels for added sugars often used to preserve flavor and shelf life.

Cooking with fruits or baking starchy veggies like sweet potatoes and carrots - and the recipe calls for sugar? When we cook these foods their natural sugars unlock to make your recipe naturally sweet - no added sugar required.

Making a salad that calls for dried fruit and candied nuts? The dried fruit is the candy my dear. Plus nuts like cashews and macadamias already have a sweeter profile.

Trade 5: Alcohol

Oh how a gathering of friends and family can make a girl want to drink. Whether it’s to celebrate good times or to just make it through the madness watch yourself on the alcohol.

Offset the booze calories by skipping the pie or only have a bite passing on the potatoes and having more greens. Or just eat less of everything to make room for a drink or two.

Monitor your intake closely and get away from the food as soon as you start sipping. Don't become friends with the nut bowl - you'll regret it.

Remember that other sugary drinks may not have the impairment effect that alcohol can but they still add calories. Go with lemon water instead of lemonade and flavored sparkling water instead of sparkling cider or grape juice. Opt for decaf tea or coffee when the meal is over.

Trade 6: Leftovers

Loved the treats you had and want to have them again? And again? And again? Wrong. A holiday is one day so say bye- bye to your treats by trading your indulgent leftovers for a fresh start. Donate the food that remains to a shelter a food bank a religious group your family or even to a farm for compost. Start your weekend with a renewed commitment to health and a looooong workout.

How do you make your Thanksgiving healthier and cruelty-free? Let us know in the comments section below!

Green Workout Gear That Goes The Distance

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

From Our Friends at Eco Stiletto: The Ultimate List of Cruelty-Free and Eco-Conscious Workout Duds. Shopping Spree Anyone?

We work out to feel good.

For some of us it’s the bells and whistles of the gym. For others it’s accessing the exuberance of dance. Swimmers meditate through movement; runners through the heart-racing rush of the sprint. And of course there’s always the deep calm of muscle- melting yoga to get you to an all-day high.

But we also work out to look good and—let’s be honest—we want to look good while we’re doing it. Because there’s nothing worse than showing up for class in your grubby old leggings and realizing your regular instructor has been replaced with the sub who’s a dead ringer for Colin Farrell.

These clothes and accessories are all crafted from eco-friendly fabrics—some embracing fair trade upcycling or other sustainable initiatives—with designs that perform as good as they look. Because the last thing you want is your gear distracting you from your practice.

Earth Creations

Here’s something you don’t learn every day: Though it tastes great on your pasta the immense quantities of salt used in the commercial fabric-dyeing process can cause irreversible harm to our ecosystems. That’s why Earth Creations’ clay-dyeing process is so cool: All components used in the process are natural biodegradable and meet the strict guidelines of the Organic Trade Association Fiber standards. Roll up or fold down the waistband of their Dharma Pants and you can practice anywhere. Like say a deserted meadow surrounded with vibrant leaves and just a cameraman for company.

Omnitom

Europe may be best known for couture but with omnitom—available exclusively from online etailer Luxual.ca—we can add yoga wear to the mix. Ultra feminine—think delicate flower-printed tunics and tanks inspired by Chinese cheongsam dresses—the line is also super practical fabricated from organic cotton with an inner support bra built into every top and an armpit shape designed for maximum freedom of movement. Che bella.

Kigo

Beloved by “barefoot” runners and water sports enthusiasts who need their feet wet but still protected kigos weigh less than five ounces and feature a flexible midsole which allows the shoes to fold closed—a bonus for travelers. Featuring a high-density non-slip grooved outsole made from recycled plastic and a recycled-nylon lining and they’re packaged in biodegradable and compostable materials. Rope swing not included.

Samtosa

There’s nothing worse than working out in a sucky sports bra. Too loose and you—forgive our crassness—flop all over the place; too tight and you bind up shoulder muscles you didn’t even know you had. But Samtosa’s Sports Bra is just plain perfect. Crafted in organic cotton veggie-dyed in solid colors or our favorite tie-dye with a sexy little ballerina-esque gather in the front the construction is solid enough to keep you in place and cute enough to show off even after shavasana.

Horny Toad

Walk much? Serious trekkers look for the perfect pants: Not so short that they ride up and chafe; not so long that they flap around your ankles. With a perfect calf-skinning length and wide smooth waistband Horny Toad’s Trudy Cropped Pants—made from high-performance low-environmental-impact Tencel—might just be the answer.

Ocean Minded

Since 1996 Ocean Minded has been organizing community beach clean-ups around the world—in 2009 they hosted 47 beach clean-ups collecting more than 20000 pounds of trash. OM’s odor-resistant Meilani sandals—made from recycled plastic bottles with water-based glue—are perfect for a walk on the beach or your stinky hot yoga class.

Hyde

Hyde is the brainchild of Anne-Kerr Kennedy a runner-turned-yogi who quit her corporate job to pursue a career in design. Her genius shows in the clothes—au courant colors organic cotton no annoying seams or tags and styles cute enough to wear off the mat.

Nau

Early morning running is a funny thing. For the first fifteen minutes everything from your ears to your fingertips is freezing but once you warm up all you want to do is strip down. That’s where the Lightbeam jacket comes in. Designed by legendary eco-clothier Nau—each and every piece of clothing they make is recyclable—the Lightbeam is a windshell with purpose. Crafted from water resistant breathable quick-dry recycled post-industrial polyester with a stashable hood and elastic cuffs long enough to tuck frigid fingers inside the Lightbeam keeps out the cold when you need it but is light enough to wrap around your waist when you don’t.

Ecostay

It’s hard to work out with hair in your eyes—it’s also hard to look cute with a ratty old headband wrapped around your bangs. That’s where Ecostasy headbands come in. Fair-trade made in a Brazilian Amazon nature preserve by the indigenous Kaxinawá tribe they’re made from naturally dyed cotton hand woven with patterns that symbolize qualities such as courage power and wisdom. Excellent qualities to draw on when you’re standing on your head.

Revenge Is

No comment? Use your body as a billboard with a shirt from Revenge Is. Crafted from recycled plastic bottles and organic cotton Revenge Is creates a full line of shirts that put your money where your mouth is. With alliances like the Help Haiti t-shirt—it donates 50 of each sale to the William J. Clinton Foundation Haiti Fund—there’s something for everyone. But our favorite is universal: Revenge Is Peace. Now that’s a message we can get behind.

I/O Bio Merino

Think wool and typically you’re thinking of sweaters and bundling up to stay warm. But the never-chemically-treated renewable biodegradable recyclable wool I/O Bio Merino Contact Rib Tank does exactly the opposite—it’s super soft and lightweight with flat seams and a next-to-skin ribbed fit and it’s strangely temperature regulating: Cool when it’s hot outside and warm when it’s cold. Miraculous.

Be Present

Think hemp’s rough and tumble? Think again. Be Present’s new Hemp line is ridiculously soft sheer and sexy. The peek-a-boo Cross Back Tee is the perfect cover up for yoga—flip it around and you can even wear it to the beach. Plus hemp is a naturally insect-resistant anti-microbial crop that requires no herbicides pesticides or chemical fertilizers to produce. If the 1.4 billion cotton t-shirts sold in American each year were replaced with hemp tees the energy savings would equal 3.5 billion gigajoules and the water savings would equal 1.3 trillion gallons—enough water for half the U.S. population for an entire year. That’s a lottawatta.

Restore Clothing

Pilates junkies will appreciate the muffin-top minimizing contoured waist of Restore Clothing’s best-selling Active pants made with fabric sourced from recycled coconut shells that clings in all the right places—and none of the wrong. Restore takes their commitment to sustainability seriously: Their clothing is all made from recycled materials packaging is compostable and they donate 1 to For The Planet.

Curawear

Does Canada have the edge on eco-fashion? Designers are popping up everywhere from Vancouver to Toronto but Cura is the first made-in-Canada sustainable workout wear we’ve seen. We’re huge fans of the waist-worshipping gathered-side organic cotton top pictured here which is available exclusively at Luxual an online boutique—“where luxe meets casual”—that sells everything from work-worthy cardies to cute yoga gear like Cura.

PKD Spa

We love soymilk in our lattes but on our bodies? Indeed. Designer Patricia King-Davies’ PKD Spa line captures protein from the discarded non-GMO soy “cakes” left once the oil is extracted from soybeans then spins it into fiber for yarns without any toxic chemicals or bleach. The resulting fabric is so soft and supple it begs for shavasana.

Do you have a favorite eco-friendly workout gear brand? Let us know in the comments section below!

To read the full article on EcoStiletto.com go here!

Autumnal Minestrone

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Hearty and Chunky This Soup Will Warm You From the Inside Out

Use brown rice pasta or vary the type of beans to make this dish your own bitchworthy creation...

Serves: 4 to 8

What You Need

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 stalks celery sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 bulb fennel cut into 1-by-1/4-inch pieces about 1 1/2 cups
2 medium Yukon gold potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2-3 cloves garlic finely chopped
1 can 35 ounces whole tomatoes lightly crushed
8 cups vegan chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 can 15 ounces cannellini beans drained and rinsed
Salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons red-wine vinegar
1 zucchini quartered and sliced
1 1/2 bunches Swiss chard leaves thinly sliced about 6 cups
2 cups elbow or fussili pasta cooked
Vegan parmesan nutritional yeast or finely-ground pumpkin seeds for garnish

How to Make It

Heat oil in an 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add onion celery fennel potatoes garlic and cook stirring occasionally about 5 minutes.

Add tomatoes and their juices stock and cannellini beans. Season with 2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer add in the zucchini and cook until potatoes are tender about 10 minutes.

Stir in cooked pasta vinegar and Swiss chard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour into bowls and garnish with vegan cheese nutritional yeast or ground seeds. Serve immediately with a hunk of crusty bread and enjoy!

What do you think of this recipe? Let us know how your soup turned out in the comments below!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor
An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

What The Hell Do I Buy? Mascara

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

'Cause Long Lashes Attract The Strongest Primates

Most of us don’t give too much thought to our mascara - until we shack up with a new flame and wake up with it all over our faces.

Or how about when you watch a cheesy inspirational YouTube video at work and have to make a run for the bathroom to wipe away the streaky tears? You know you've been there.

As long as it’s doing the trick – making your eyes look bigger and your lashes fuller – you tend to apply that black magic and forget all about it.

There's Something In My Eye

But we’re about to burst your bubble: that little black or brown blue or green coating you’re swiping on your lashes is probably fraught with some nasty ingredients: rayon paraffin dyes synthetic plastics derived from petrochemicals wax thickeners PVP parabens synthetic fragrance and nerve-damaging preservatives. Not pretty.

Chemical Romance

These toxins can cause irritation endocrine disruption neurotoxicity allergies and biochemical or cellular level changes. All of that basically means your mascara could be ruining your life.

Avoiding irritants is especially important around your eyes because your lashes are designed to keep intruders out: dust sweat debris and chemicals that can cause cancer. The minute those peeper feathers sense danger they send a message to your brain to blink – and stop the invasion.

You don’t want to mess with the system do you?

Are You Looking at My Stye?

Unfortunately lashes aren’t evolved enough to differentiate between actual invaders and the crap in your mascara. While eyes do flush out most irritants if anything goes awry you’re looking at a serious infection. Styes conjunctivitis or blepharitis anyone? Plus eyelashes are hair so they can harbor crabs - yes the same ones you thought you were safe from after you lasered off all of your pubic hair. A particularly nasty bout with bacteria-laden mascara can even cause you to go blind.

That ain't worth come-hither eyes in our book.

Options Baby

So what’s a girl or a pre-teen in guyliner to do? Go natural of course. Believe it or not effective non-toxic versions of mascara do exist. And while they may not make your peepers Kardashian-worthy they will sex them up quite nicely – while nourishing and conditioning them at the same time.

Bitchworthy

Here are a few of our favorite mascara picks that won't bring you to tears:

Zuzu Luxe Mascara: Available in onyx espresso navy and clear this line is very natural and contains vitamins and herbal extracts that actually help your lashes grow. It creates a natural look; the espresso is great for day time and the onyx takes it up a notch at night. The line is vegan ophthalmologist tested hypo allergenic cruelty-free fragrance-free and water-resistant. I also found it to be clump-proof and smudge-free and it’s safe for contact lens wearers. 18 at Whole Foods. www.gabrielcosmeticsinc.com

Suncoat Natural Mascara: Another vegan mascara Suncoat uses a sugar-based polymer kaolin clay and earth pigments in their biodegradable formula. It’s known for its wearability volume and smudge resistance and it's available in black brown and navy for 15 at www.suncoatproducts.com

The Verdict

Pros: Why the hell wouldn't you buy natural on this one? Clump-free and smudge-proof is good enough for us.

Cons: Vegan mascaras may be a teensy less water-resistant than traditional mascara. But they all run when we cry swim or bathe anyway so who cares?

What do you think about vegan mascara? Will you make the switch? What products do you love? Help a bitch out and let us know in the comments below!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email infohealthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Real Women Have Curves

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:27:27 -0800

Being Fit Isn't About Getting Skinny - It's About Finding Power

It's time to stop hiding those wide hips strong thighs and luscious ta-tas.

It's also time to throw away your scale stop staring at your cellulite and agree that starving yourself is not an option. While you're at it throw comparing yourself to others out the window too.

Self-Esteem Lobotomy

Do you constantly feel like your fitness plan falls short? Never satisfied with the shape of your calves? It's probably because you're working out for the wrong reason: you want to be hot.

Fair enough but here's why you need to get your head checked: Your exercise time is not just about making your ass smaller. It's a time to work on your inner strength and find some peace with who you are right now. Whether you're busting out push ups in bootcamp or sweatin' to the oldies every time you work out it's a chance to practice being a stronger person. If you're not viewing fitness this way you're missing the mark sweetie.

Change of Heart

A hot bod comes from the inside out. Want to get crazy fit and super slim? Start by accepting where your fitness level and waist line are now. By embracing the shape of your body - and starting from a place of love - you skip over that whole part where you tear yourself to shreds with self-loathing. This week come up with five reasons why you're bitchin'. Is it your cute pirate smile? Your perfectly-shaped bootie? Go ahead. Say it out loud: My ass is amazing. Feels good doesn't it? Repeat as needed.

Wash Your Mouth Out

You can't have real power and talk shit about your body. Just stop that crap right now. If you feel an overwhelming need to comment about your flaws make it sassy and positive."Damn my thighs are hot. I'm so hot I want to have sex with myself" is so much better than "this leg jiggle is the reason I'm still single." It may seem silly but your words are powerful. Use them to affirm not to destroy or at least use them you make you laugh. Judgment hinders positivity. If you think badly of yourself and your body you won't strive for change. So watch your mouth girlfriend. For every slip donate a dollar to your local favorite charity.

Why Am I Working Out?

Why do you work out? Is your motivation coming from a good place or from fear of the double chin? When we think about why we work out we have the opportunity to fall in love with exercise and our bodies. Notice why you work out and connect with how it makes you feel.

Do What You Love Love Love

So many women think they have to kill themselves doing workouts they hate. Learning to love your body is also about enjoying the time you spend working on it. When you love the way exercise feels it's not only more effective but you give your soul a little vacay. The art of enjoying yourself is dying ladies. Work out doing something you love and don't judge how easy hard short or long it is. Just do it and be present. See how strong and centered you feel when you're done.

Power in the Push Up

There's nothing more powerful than being able to hold your own body weight. Being able to physically support yourself bleeds through into the rest of your life. Push ups are your opportunity to see that you can support yourself. Do 5-25 push ups every day as a reminder that you already have all the strength you need honey.

The key to creating change in your body starts by accepting who you are right now. Try loving yourself - and your cellulite arm flab or imperfect abs. Only then will you finally be in the place to create the body you want.

What exercises makes you feel powerful? We want to hear! Let us know in the comments below.

Tweet me AngelaParkerFIT to keep me posted about your successes and challenges. I'll be sure to give shout-outs spicy tips and tricks awesome advice and motivation!

Do you have a burning fitness question for Angela or a topic you want her to cover? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com.

Angela Parker Resident Fitness Guru
As the founder of bodyinspiredfitness.com Angela believes that it’s possible for everyone to live a truly healthy happy and vibrant life. She recently wrote and published her first book 90–Days to a Stronger Body & Deeper Connection with Your Daughter available exclusively on Amazon.com. Angela's unique at-home program encourages mothers to inspire their daughters ages 7 to 18 to create a lifetime of being fit and healthy. Angela can now be seen every Tuesday night on MTV's new hit show "Chelsea Settles" as Chelsea's trainer.

What's Your Dosha? Eating for Your Ayurvedic Type

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Ayurveda Is One of the Oldest Healing Systems Around But What Is It?

Vata Pitta and Kapha aren't the names of Branjelina's latest adopted kids.

If you’ve heard of Ayurveda but don't know much about it you're not alone. It's no passing trend but most people are still in the dark about this ancient system of holistic healing - one that literally means "the complete knowledge for long life" in Sanskrit.

What's Your Dosha?

There are essentially three different body types or constitutions in Ayurvedic medicine: Vata Pitta and Kapha.

In Ayurvedic thought humans are all made up of five basic elements in the universe: Space Air Fire Water and Earth. When we make our cameo out of the birth canal we each have our own unique combination of these elements. This make-up is referred to as your dosha.

Elements and You

Vatas are comprised of Space and Air. Pittas are made of Fire and Water. Kaphas are the combination of Earth and Water. Like chocolate and peanut butter the energies of your dosha combine to make you something heavenly.

Your dosha also makes you unique in some interesting ways. It regulates how you respond to temperature what foods aggravate your system what smells will soothe you and even what your hair and skin look like. And those are just the tip of the Ayurvedic iceberg.

Food for Thought

In Ayurveda food is not only nourishment it's medicine baby. Choosing the best foods for your dosha is essential for balancing your body and maintaining your highest health.

V is for Vata

Vatas need grounding warm and unctuous foods to keep their bodies strong and their minds calm. Carbohydrates are grounding while healthy fats like ghee and sesame oil help balance the Vata tendency for dryness. Cooked vegetables mildly spiced with a little protein helps their digestion. Vatas need protein for stability and strength but often times a Vata's digestive fire is too low making it difficult to get things moving down the GI tract and giving you that oh-so-embarrassing gas. Choosing appropriate spices can help increase your digestive fire if you're a Vata.

Perfectly Pitta

Pittas naturally have a strong digestive fire and can digest protein and raw vegetables well. Pittas need a balance of vegetables and carbohydrates to cool their internal fire. Protein gives a Pitta's strong digestion something to work on for a while. Otherwise they will quickly burn through vegetables and carbohydrates only to get the munchies all over again.

Kapha Gamma

Kaphas need light spicy and warm foods to balance their heavy natures. They do best on a small amount of protein and carbohydrates because they are already heavy and sturdy. Kaphas should also limit the amount of fats they consume. Cooked spicy vegetables are light and easy to digest since spice helps the digestive juices flow. Proteins are hard to digest so Kaphas should stick to smaller portions or simply choose vegetarian dishes.

The Meat of the Matter

Self-awareness is the essence of Ayurvedic living. Your unique constitution is what determines which foods are healthy for you or not. Since the Ayurvedic diet is not strictly vegetarian - it is believed that some doshas can benefit from the protein in meat - how can you please your dosha without compromising your morals?

In a nutshell Kaphas do well as vegetarians Pittas might need more protein to quench the digestive fire and Vatas benefit from extra protein-rich foods as long as they don't go overboard.

The Definition of Health

What is healthy for one isn’t necessarily so for another. For instance a Pitta will probably have sweats and heart palpitations after a bowl of spicy chile while a Vata will feel energized by the extra kick.

We are each completely unique in our constitutions. The more we pay attention to our bodies' signals the more we can define for ourselves what ‘healthy’ is for us. Through a better understanding of your dosha you learn to make choices that nourish and strengthen your body satisfy your senses balance your emotions and promote mental peace and clarity.

"Om" to that.

Do you want to know what your dosha is? Book an appointment with me Jennie Erke AMP. Also Visit my website for more information on Ayurveda.

Do you know your dosha? What foods do you eat or avoid? Let us know in the comments below!

Jennie Erke AMP Guest Blogger
Jennie has been practicing Ayurvedic Medicine for over 6 years and is part of the thriving healing community at RakSa Wellness Center. She considers herself a conscientious consumer and ethical omnivore. The one wellness tip she tells all her clients is to eat seasonal foods and shop your local farmer's markets.

The 411 on Pumpkin

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0800

Delicious and Nutritious Here's the Deal on Fall's Most Popular Fruit

Halloween has come and gone but we're not smashing pumpkins just yet.

While most foodies have already moved on to the next trendy vegetable acorn squash there's still a lot you can do with pumpkin as we head into the holiday months. As one of the most versatile and nutritious fruits around we think it's time pumpkin got its fair due.

Animal Mineral or Vegetable

Though often masquerading as a vegetable the pumpkin is technically a fruit because it grows on a vine and contains seeds. Early Native Americans used pumpkins at their dinner parties long before Columbus decided to throw the first Thanksgiving hoopla in the New World.

Delicious and Nutritious

Pumpkin usually ends up on your plate in the form of a fattening sugary pack-on-the-pounds slice of pie. Yummy yes but no one wants to wear Spanx for the entire holiday season. Pumpkin dearies can absolutely be a healthy choice when it's prepared without all the sugar fat and crap. It's naturally low in fat and calories and it's packed with vitamins A C K E antioxidants beta-carotenes and minerals magnesium potassium iron. Bonus? A half-cup of pumpkin contains five grams of fiber.

Seeds That Stand Alone

Pumpkin seeds also called pepitas are also a rich source of nutrients like essential omega-3 fatty acids. Snack on a few and you'll also help kill off internal parasites - which is gross and spectacular at the same time. These little puppies are easy to roast for a sweet or salty snack. Toss them on your salad instead of crutons too.

Canned vs. Fresh

Even though cooking typically destroys nutrients in food in the case of pumpkins both canned and fresh pack a rich source of vitamins and minerals. For those of you that would rather take a trip to the grocery store instead of the pumpkin patch? Brace yourself for some bad news: We could not find a brand of canned organic 100 percent pumpkin that was definitively BPA-free and therefore bitchworthy enough to recommend. We suggest you get down and dirty with the real thing - and schedule your manicure for afterward.

Storing Pumpkins

If you opt to use the pumpkin “au natural” look for ones that are blemish-free firm and heavy for their size. Whole pumpkins can be stored in a cool dark place for up to two months though it’s a good idea to put newspapers underneath just in case they opt for an early death. Once you cut open the pumpkin you will need to use it within a few days otherwise mold will become friendly with your fruit.

How to Use Pumpkin

There are unlimited ways to use fresh pumpkin including muffins bread pies smoothies and soups. Try our recipes for pumpkin cornbread maple-pecan pumpkin pie or this recipe for creamy pumpkin vegan soup. Get out the carving knife and gut some goo gals!

How do you use pumpkin in your fall recipes? Let us know in the comments section below!

Susan Emmer FOOD Feature Editor
Susan is a certified whole health educator and coach treading on both wellness and green terrain. Earning an environmental studies degree before green was the new black Susan is the owner of the sustainability marketing and PR firm Farmacy Agency. Follow her on Twitter wellnewsnetwork.

Navy Bean Dip

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Whip Up This Quick Side Dish When You Have Last-Minute Company

Easy and spicy this appetizer proves that simple can definitely be delish...

Serves: 4

What You Need

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion chopped
4 cloves garlic minced
2 cans navy beans drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
1/4 tablespoon chili powder
Sea salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make It

In a medium-sized pan saute the onions in olive oil over medium heat until translucent. Add the garlic and continue to sauté for another minute stirring constantly.

Add the beans basil and chili powder. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Purée entire mixture in blender on low speed. Season with sea salt and pepper.

Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve chilled with crackers and crudités.

Amie Valpone Food Blogger
The gal behind The Healthy Apple Amie Valpone HHC AADP is a Manhattan-based culinary marketing consultant specializing in gluten-free "clean" eating. Amie is also a culinary nutritionist spending time with clients as a Food Allergy Concierge and Pantry Stylist in the big apple of Manhattan and publisher of the all-new gluten-free online magazine Easyeats.com.

Fast Food

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Subway 7-11 and Other Fast Food Giants also Cater to Vegans. Who Knew?

French fries are like crack.

But a happy meal like crack can also leave you face down in the gutter of your own misery and self–loathing. You already know that fast food makes your ass fat wreaks havoc on your skin and perpetuates animal murder on a daily basis.

But what’s a gal to do when there ain't a Whole Foods in sight and you need sustenance like now?

Whether it’s 2 a.m. on that girl's weekend road trip or in between back-to-back business meetings on the god-forsaken day you forgot your lunch we all know the drill: It’s either eat fast food or pass out.

Vegan Apocalypse

While we won't ever condone that bag of salty friesyou bitches know betterwe are stoked to see that some popular fast-food chains seem to be catching on to the fact that not everyone wants meat and mucous for lunch.

With a whopping 8 to 9 percent of the U.S. population now opting for a meat-free diet it’s clear that the customer is always right. But what companies are actually on board? And can we really trust what we're eating?

Game Changers

In October Subway tweeted about Vegetarian Awareness Month and asked its customers for feedback about improving their vegetarian and vegan options. The result? Thousands of plant-eaters rallying for their right to fake meat. Compassion Over Killing an animal advocacy organization even created a website that encourages people to give Subway feedback and suggestions for vegan and vegetarian options. As of now the only veggie option on the menu is the Veggie Delight sandwich.

In other news 7-11 is also offering vegan options in a select number of stores across the nation. The choices? Pad thai noodles vegetable lo mein Shanghai dumplings artichoke spinach noodles and hunan dumplings. Not that we've been to 7-11 since our high school slurpee days but this shit is progress folks.

It’s Like Trendy

What’s even more super is that the media is taking note of these postive food moves by corporate giants. A recent CNN piece outlined how veggie and vegan teens are becoming more obnoxious and abundant than Twilight fans opting forand demandinghealthier food options at school and home. Pass the tofu Mom!

The LA Times reported on how restaurants are “super-sizing” nutritional options to better accommodate people with dietary restrictions or lifestyle choices like veganism. After a few pissed-off vegetarians complained to Chipotle for example the company changed its menus to disclose the fact that their pinto beans are made with bacon. Gross? Yes. But full disclosure about our fast food means we get to make educated choices.

City Rats Get Good Munchies

If you're lucky enough to live in a larger city you can also head to your local vegan fast food joint or butcher shop. Brooklyn's Food Swingsopen til 2 a.m. for your post-clubbing munchiesoffers delectables like Butterfinger milkshakes corn dogs and disco fries. Loving Hut with locations in many major U.S. and international cities has everything from chicken nuggets and burgers to rice plates with tofuall 100 percent vegan.

Hold the Ketchup

Before you go digging through the couch cushions for change make sure those french fries weren't doused in bacon grease. Many meat-focused fast food chains prepare all their food vegetarian or not with machines equipment or ingredients that might have animal-by products contaminating your shit up. If you're unsure about something get some balls and just ask.

But in the end of the day it all boils down to where you draw the line for your own personal standards.

What Can I Do?

If you want to have your burger and eat it too start demanding more vegan options. Saturate company Facebook pages Twitter accounts and other social media outlets with your rants. Let them know what the hell is up.

Also check out this vegan's blog where an entire list of popular fast food chains is provided along with vegan and vegetarian food options for each.

Do you have a question about fast food you want us to answer? Would you eat fast food more if there were vegan options? Let us know in the comments section below or on Facebook!

Mara Tyler Managing Editor of HealthyBitchDaily.com
Mara Tyler is a health and wellness die-hard with a penchant for sarcasm. A former public relations and marketing professional she's helped grow bleeding-heart health and fitness startups into successful companies with the wave of her magic wand. When she’s not berating her friends for eating Big Macs or preaching to her family about the wonders of green smoothies she can be found reading bad chick lit scouting out new indie bands or attempting to find bliss in yoga. Mara lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Win Candle 79's New Cookbook

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Vegan Fine Dining? Surely You Jest!

The rest of the world hates you New Yorkers for a reason.

One word: jealousy.

Fashion week came and went but on NYC’s Upper East Side there’s a house that delivers trendy dishes to the city’s fashionistas and fabulistos: President Clinton Dr. Oz John Salley Lance Armstrong Alicia Silverstone Donna Karan Tea Leoni Mario Batali...the list goes on.

Vegan Haute Couture

So what's all the fuss? Candle 79 is self-described as New York's "premiere vegan oasis." Plant-based dining meets chic and sophisticated. Wait...that exists?

Since we practically have a joy-induced aneurysm every time new vegan recipes don't taste like cardboard we beat down the door of Joy Pierson Candle 79 owner when we heard they were coming out with a new cookbook.

Table for Two Please

"People come into the restaurant for many different reasons but all leave having experienced a delicious and nourishing meal. We are feeding the fourth generation of the movers and shakers of the planet" says Pierson.

Candle 79’s chefs Angel Ramos and Jorge Pineda serve up tasty plant-based dishes with museum-worthy visual appeal. The proof is in the vegan pudding ladiescheck out the photos.

Pierson notes that the goal for every diner is to experience "food that is presented beautifully and accompanied by gorgeous organic wines and spirits. A totally embracing dining experience that pleases all the senses and makes you yearn for more.” Yearn we do.

Get In Line

The restaurant is never anything but packed. Those who are too important to wait in line at other Big Apple restaurants must belly up to the bar and drown their disappointing wait in some organic wine. Bummer.

Cook With Class

This week the Candle 79 team share their culinary secrets with the nation with "Candle 79 Cookbook: Modern Vegan Classics from New York's Premier Sustainable Restaurant."

“Our customers asked us for it another cookbook on a daily basis” notes Pierson.

Brunch lunch cocktails and dinnerfine vegan dining is no longer an urban myth bitches.

Some of our favorite recipes? Mixed grain waffles with raspberry butter butternut squash-chestnut soup with caramelized pears and a beet fennel and fig salad with cranberry-sage dressing.

“The photography is food porn and the recipes are easy and delish!” says Pierson. We couldn’t agree more.

Freebies Are Fabulous

We advise donning some gloves and a designer apron.

Candle 79 is giving away three 3 copies of their new cookbook to HBD readers! To win tell us what vegan dish you'd serve if you were hosting a high-class dinner party and wanted to impress your guests in the comments section below.

Bitchworthy: For those of you who buy a cookbook for the pretty pictures but avoid any heavy lifting for fear of breaking a nail you can also head to the refrigerator and freezer sections at Whole Foods to grab Candle Café desserts and frozen meals.

Have a question for Ashley? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com and we'll get your questions answered.

UPDATE: We've chosen our winners! Congrats Charlene Tina and Kathleen!

Ashley Koff R.D. Resident Dietitian
Named among the Top 10 Registered Dietitians in the U.S. by Today’s Dietitian Magazine Koff appears regularly on national media outlets including Dr. Oz The Doctors Good Morning America Health CNN AOL and E!. Koff is also the dietitian for espnW and the featured dietitian on the CW’s “Shedding for the Wedding” and Lifetime’s “Love Handles.” Koff maintains a private practice regularly lectures and works to improve the quality of food choices on the sets of popular shows such as Private Practice CSI: New York Big Love It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Bones. Her book Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged Hay House 2011 hits stands later this summer. For more information please visit AshleyKoffRd.com.

Happy Birthday Bitches

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 06:00:00 -0700

November 1st is World Vegan Day. How Will You Celebrate?

You're a badass bitch who loves her kale buys organic and refuses to eat anything with hair or a heartbeat.

You skip out on leather and fur and educate your peeps on the dangers of the meat and dairy industry. Hell you're practically saving the world.

This calls for a celebration.

Party On

Haven't heard? November 1st is World Vegan Day - and we think that's reason enough to eat some cake.

Started in 1994 by Louise Wallis former President of The Vegan Society in the UK World Vegan Day originally marked the 50th anniversary of the org's founding in 1944 by Donald Watson. Don't know who he is? Well he's the guy who coined the term "vegan" for non-dairy vegetarians.

Since then World Vegan Day took off like wildfire and is celebrated toward the end of October and beginning of November all over the green and blue earth baby.

Celebrate in Style

Typical celebrations include food festivals and conventions with vegan exhibitors like this one in Melbourne Australia. Sydney has a Cruelty-Free Festival with over 60 food stalls and meditation workshops. If you're in the UK The Vegan Fayre has tons of free food and cooking demonstrations.

Not living across the Atlantic? Don't hyperventilate. Stateside World Vegan Day LA Nov. 1 has a silent auction half-court basketball music comedy food and activities for kids.

You can participate in the Philadelphia three-day vegan walk Oct. 30 - Nov. 1 to raise awareness for Farm Sanctuary's Mission.

Chicago will celebrate Vegan Mania Nov. 5 with vegan food products and talks from leaders in the vegan industry.

Not seeing your city? Check out this handy dandy site that's got info for celebrations all over the world.

Do Your Thang

If crowds give you stress-induced anxiety there are plenty of things you can do to celebrate World Vegan Day on your own. Here are our bitchworthy suggestions.

1. Make a feast for your vegan and non-vegan friends. One of the most pervasive big-fat-lies about abstaining from animal products is that every meal will consist of boring-as-blah salad. Prep a delicious meal for your non-vegan friends and make them worship you. Need ideas? Try the Healthy Bitch Daily recipes for "seafood" lettuce cups gluten-free ratatouille and sweet roasted pears for dessert.

2. Watch your favorite feel-good animal movie. Oh come on. We know you had tears and snot running down your face when you saw Babe the first time. "That'll do pig." Other movies to validate your animal-loving bleeding heart? Flicka Turner and Hooch and Charlotte's Web. Wanna go old school? Milo and Otis!

3. Treat yourself to a new book on veganism. "Skinny Bitch" paved the way for the dozens of incredible plant-based diet books that have hit shelves since. Some of our suggestions are "Eating Animals" by Jonathan Safran Foer "The China Study" by T. Colin Campbell "Veganist" by Kathy Freston and of course Kim's most recent book "Skinny Bitch Home Beauty & Style: A No-Nonsense Guide to Cutting the Crap Out of Your Life for a Better Body and a Kinder World." Get educated bitches!

4. Get connected. Um ever heard of Facebook or Twitter? Well yeah all your favorite vegan celebrities are on there. Did you hear how Ozzy is going vegan? How else could you have wished them a happy World Vegan Day ten years ago? You can even tweet Bill Clinton these days!

How do you plan to celebrate World Vegan Day? Let us know in the comments section below or run your mouth off on our Facebook page.

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

Managing Money Doesnt Have to be a Horror Show

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Take Some Tips from Our Friends at DailyWorth

Those bills aren’t going to pay themselves sweet cheeks.

It’s a no-brainer that money brings on stress - the kind that no amount of downward dog is likely to kick. Hell you already know there’s no magical solution for your shoe addiction.

But there is a solution for ways to budget that won’t scare the living daylights out of you. Getting a fresh financial start is easier than you think so don’t go trying to change your identity just yet. Instead try the 17 simple rock-solid guidelines in The Money Rules a free guide from DailyWorth.

Rule Your Money.

The Money Rules breaks down 17 easy-to-follow money rules that pack a punch in five categories: budget earn save invest and spend.

It’s okay if you want to read the “spend” section first.

This is the smart savvy money guide you’ve been wanting — the ultimate quick reference to clear up any confusion and show you exactly how to budget for those bitchworthy boots and manage your cash flow like a big girl.

Suck a math? Don’t fret sister. It even includes formulas and easy equations you need to keep you on track.

The best part? It’s totally free. When you subscribe to DailyWorth you’ll get The Money Rules for FREE. Not to mention you’ll be a part of a growing community of more than 135000 women taking charge of their money.

You’re so money: Get your free copy of The Money Rules now.

This post is proudly sponsored by DailyWorth

Perfect Pumpkin Cornbread With Cinnamon Butter

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Fall is Here and So Are Pumpkin Recipes!

Make muffins or bread with this scrumptious seasonal delight the whole family will gobble up! Yes even your picky kids.

Serves: 4 to 6

What You Need

Bread/Muffins

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons brown sugar
1 large egg replacer
3/4 cup soymilk
1 cup canned or fresh pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons vegan butter melted

Cinnamon Butter

4 tablespoons vegan butter
2 teaspoons agave syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make It

Heat oven to 375°. Grease and flour a bread loaf pan or put muffin cups in a 12-muffin tin.

Combine cornmeal flour baking soda baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl.

In another bowl whisk together the brown sugar egg replacer soy milk pumpkin and butter. Combine the dry and wet mixtures and then stir until well mixed. Fill a loaf pan or muffin cups about 3/4 full and place pan in the oven. Bake for about 18 minutes or until a tooth pick can be inserted into the middle of the loaf or muffin and comes out clean/dry. Let cool on a cooling rack.

While bread or muffins cool combine all cinnamon butter ingredients in separate bowl and stir until blended. Serve with muffins or bread.

What do you think of this recipe? Let us know how your bread/muffins turn out in the comments section below!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor
An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.

What The Hell Do I Buy? Vegan Cheese

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

'Cause That Pizza Hankering Just Won't Quit

Wait. I have to give up my cheese? Oh hellll no.

For most of us the hardest thing about going vegan is parting with our friends like Brie Gouda Cheddar and Haloumi. I'm from Wisconsin and cheese is a part of my friggin' cultural heritage - they don’t call us cheeseheads for nothing.

Part of the problem for you bitches that live in rural areas is that vegan cheeses can be scarcer than a move star sighting. Not only are they hard to find but most seem reminiscent of rubbery dried kindergarten paste.

Maybe you’ve tried them: the ones that don’t melt the ones that look wrong the ones that taste and smell funny or the ones that you wouldn’t dare serve to your carnivorous in-laws.

In a word: gross.

Scary Dairy

In case you’re unaware of the cruelties inherent in the dairy industry cows are basically forced to spend their lives pregnant genetically manipulated doped up with BGH bovine growth hormone flooded with antibiotics or other hormones and milked intensively. It ain't pretty ladies.

Calves are taken from their mothers within a day of being born. Females are destined to the same fate as their mothers and males considered a "by-product" of the industry are sentenced to confinement in veal crates fattened in barren lots or just slaughtered at birth.

Got Disease?

The antibiotics and growth hormones in cows eventually make their way into our own bodies leading to drug-resistant superbugs and girls getting their periods at age 9.

Side note: No female who's at the age where boys are still gross should have to worry about bringing tampons to school in her backpack.

But My Shit's Organic

While organic dairy might alleviate some of these issues animals from the organic dairy industry are still raised to produce food and slaughtered when they’re done. Plus you’re still getting a side of mucus with your meal.

Still want that block of pepper jack?

Currently 30 to 50 million Americans suffer from a lactose intolerance and it's been estimated that around 90 percent of the entire world actually suffers from this "condition." Is it safe to assume humans weren't originally "designed" to digest dairy? We think so.

What the Hell Do I Buy?

With vegan cheese you don’t have to worry about any of that. But what the hell do I buy? There are a couple of vegan cheese contenders worth trying:

Daiya somewhat of a newbie on the market is a tad different than most vegan cheeses in that it's not made with casein the milk protein found in dairy products or soy and an ingredient in many other non-dairy cheeses. It tends to melt better than others and comes in a whole bunch of yummy flavors.

Follow Your Heart - the people that brought us veganaise - make a mozzarella that's good on sandwiches or sprinkled over salads. However it can be tough to melt if you're making pizza or other cheesy dishes.

All in all look for vegan cheeses without casein whey rennet and that have vegetarian sources of lactic acid. Use them on pizzas pasta dishes casseroles or sprinkled over salads.

Cruelty-free cheese without the nasty by-products? Now that’s something for cows to moo over.

The Verdict

Pros: Tasty versatile and generally easy to find both at Whole Foods or health food stores.

Cons: Neither are very tasty straight out of the bag and Follow Your Heart's doesn't melt that well.

What do you think about vegan cheese? Can you go without? What products do you love? Help a bitch out and let us know in the comments section below!

Breaking Out of Your Fitness Rut

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Stop Bitching and Step it Up No Matter What Your Workout Style Is

Let's face it. You crap out on your workout when it gets boring.

Even the sports or activities you love can turn into a snooze fest when you do them every day. And if you're bored you're probably not giving a shit about burning calories. You're just going through the motions in order to cancel out that cookie binge you indulged during last night's "Desperate Housewives."

It's time to overhaul your tired routine and shake that shit up! Here are some ideas for taking your favorite fitness activities to the next level.

For the Girly Girls

Ladies love LL Cool J. They also love their pilates yoga and dance classes. The next time you want to sweat try these variations on your favorite workout activities:

If your sweat staple is: Barre Dance Classes

Try this shit: It's time to fly baby. An aerial acrobatics class might be just your thing. Think Carrie Bradshaw in that episode where she tries to tackle the trapeze. These classes are usually taught by former circus performers that are still in amazing shape. These off-the-ground workouts use a variety of activities including high flying trapeze bungees and tightrope wires. Plus you get to twirl those fun ribbon things that have pretty colors. Is anything more cool than that? Not really.

If your sweat staple is: Pilates

Try this shit: Get your ass off the mat and try hooping! You know you spent hours as a kid with that hot pink hula hoop around your tiny waist. Turns out you can actually get that tiny waist back by shaking your ass and moving your hips to some music. Hoopnotica has made hooping popular and sexy again with their easy to love philosophy: "You're a grown-up. You don't play enough. We'd like to help you change that." Sign me up! Best part? You can get a hoop and a DVD for about 50. Score.

If your sweat staple is: Yoga

Try this shit: You usually can't convert a yogi into anything else. But what you can do is turn up the heat. If you're doing the same yoga class with the same teacher chances are you're getting a whole lotta zen with very little burn. There's a great debate about hot yoga being "better" or requiring a deeper level of commitment and practice. However we don't really give a shit cause either way you're going to sweat your ass off. The more you sweat the closer you are to a tighter ass and only one chin. Note: Bikram is not the only option in town. Lots of yoga and fitness studios feature hot yoga. Thank God too because those twenty-six Bikram moves can get way too boring after a while.

For the Tough Bitches

Like it rough? Need it harder? Oh yeah. For you tougher rougher chicks who need more try switch-hitting with another variation of your current fitness staple:

If your sweat staple is: Treadmill Running

Try this shit: Get your ass off the machine and get outside. Join a running club. This group will help push you towards that next level. You will get help with your form pacing and technique. Running clubs inspire you to run faster and further than you ever thought was possible. Not only will your body change but you may just end up inspired to do a marathon. Bonus of running clubs? Men. Fit dudes who actually like to workout and probably have good abs. That's reason enough to get your butt into some spandex.

If your sweat staple is: Personal Training

Try this shit: Did you fall for your personal trainer again? Instead of skipping those expensive sessions with Mr. Muscles join a boot camp. It's like having your own personal trainer to kick your ass but you also have an entire group of other people to motivate you to work harder and be on time. You will save some serious cash and your results will shoot through the roof. There's nothing that motivates a gal more than not getting yelled at for crapping out on a set of push ups. Search for local boot camps in your area or ask your trainer to start his/her own.

If your sweat staple is: Weight Training

Try this shit: TRX yourself. These suspension training workouts are a way of using your own body weight against you to get results. TRX shreds your core like nothing you have ever seen before. That's because if your core is not rock solid none of the moves work. It's genius and depressing at the same time. You can find TRX classes at your gym or local fitness studio. You can also order your own kit and DVD and rock this workout in your undies at home.

For all you fickle bitches that can't keep a workout routine at all? Hit the web and find some online workout videos on You Tube. Search for the body part you are most interested in toning and try something new!

No matter what you're into there's something different for you to try on the fitness front. Get excited and reinvigorated by shaking it up.

Tweet me AngelaParkerFIT to keep me posted about your successes and challenges. I'll be sure to give shout-outs spicy tips and tricks awesome advice and motivation!

Do you have a burning fitness question for Angela or a topic you want her to cover? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com.

Angela Parker Resident Fitness Guru
As the founder of bodyinspiredfitness.com Angela believes that it’s possible for everyone to live a truly healthy happy and vibrant life. She recently wrote and published her first book 90–Days to a Stronger Body & Deeper Connection with Your Daughter available exclusively on Amazon.com. Angela's unique at-home program encourages mothers to inspire their daughters ages 7 to 18 to create a lifetime of being fit and healthy.This October Angela will take on one of her biggest roles on the new MTV Show "Chelsea Settles."

Why Are You Vegan?

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Let Us Know and Enter For Your Chance to Win a 250 Vegan Gift Bag!

Carnivores are really starting to piss us off.

It's not exactly news that meat consumption is creating a tragic kingdom for humans and animals alike but that doesn't mean we're not still mad as hell about it. We destroy land to create cattle ranches. We raise cows to feed people. Then people end up sick and disease-ridden from eating cows. It’s a vicious cycle and it’s not about to end any time soon.

Staying on the Wagon

Clearly the choice to become and remain vegan is easy when you consider the facts.

But admit it. There are days you forget why you’re noshing on carrot sticks in your cube when everyone in the office bought greasy burgers for lunch. You feel guilt pangs over wanting pizza. You wish you didn’t have a moral issue with leather boots.

This shit can be hard.

Pep Talk

We get it – which is why we wanted to remind you of the awful disgusting and horrible reasons to keep your wits about you and stay committed to a cruelty-free lifestyle. We rounded up some mind-boggling reasons to stay meat-free and motivated to kick some carnivore ass.

How do we loathe meat? Let us count the ways...

Hunger Pangs

Reason to Rage: At any given time there are about 20 billion farmed animals on the planet which is more than three times the total human population. Cattle alone consume a quantity of food equal to the caloric needs of 8.7 billion people yet they can’t produce nearly enough meat milk and eggs to feed everyone.

What’s worse? If people ate the plants we feed to factory-farmed animals there would be more than enough food to eliminate world hunger. Yet we’d rather slaughter animals cause burgers taste good?

Who Broke Wind?

Reason to Rage: Many people blame automotive and industrial emissions for pollution climate change and global warming but livestock farming generates more greenhouse gas emissions than all other sources combined. It's time to get real about the impact this is having on our environment.

Waste Not Want Not

Reason to Rage: Animal waste and feed dump more pollutants into our waterways than all other human activities combined. We may have easy enough access to animal-free food choices but now we have to worry that our water isn’t vegan? Holy shit.

Land's End

Reasons to Rage: Meat-based diets require 10-20 times as much land as plant-based diets. Nearly half of the world’s grains and soybeans are fed to animals. Fifty-five square feet of rainforest are destroyed for every quarter-pound hamburger that comes from a cleared rain forest cattle farm. In the past 20 years Costa Rica as well as most of Brazil has lost the majority of its forests to beef cattle ranching. This slash and burn farming is believed to account for 50 of all rain forest destruction. Bring that one up the next time your hubby wants his Big Mac.

Water Water Everywhere

Reason to Rage: Over half of the water used in the United States goes to beef production. In fact it takes an average of 2500 gallons of water to produce a single pound of red meat. With the amount of water it takes to produce one pound of edible animal flesh farmers can grow up to one hundred pounds of grain. Are you throwing up yet?

Animal Torture

Reason to Rage: Factory farms often use methods such as genetic manipulation to force modern dairy cows to produce 100 pounds of milk a day – ten times more than they would produce naturally. Male baby cows used for veal are chained by the neck inside crates measuring just two feet wide. They never get to stand up so their muscles won’t develop and their flesh will remain tender.

As we all know animals are kept alive under the filthy conditions at factory farms by feeding them massive amounts of antibiotics. They are also given hormones and are genetically bred for rapid growth. Hurl.

Sea Sick

Reason to Rage: Industrial fishing is also environmentally devastating. Commercial fisheries locate schools of fish using satellite-tracking equipment and cover miles of ocean with gigantic nets that trap everything in their paths. This practice kills millions of animals that simply aren't valued by the industry such as sea turtles dolphins and sea lions. Awesome.

Due to over-fishing in the wild most fish now come from fish farms. Raised in overcrowded caged enclosures farmed fish live in water that's infested with bacteria from a surplus of excrement i.e. poop. When the fish are ready for market they are dumped into large mesh cages where they suffocate to death.

Sufficiently pissed? Good. Print this shit out. Leave it on your fridge. Hang it in your office. Also shove a copy in the faces of those people who make fun of you for eating tofu.

Why are you vegan? The gals at Rain Tees are giving away a vegan gift bag with 250 worth of loot! To win leave a comment on their Facebook page that explains your main motivation for being meat-free. You can rant about the gross shit in this article with other like-minded bitches in the comments section below.

Beth Doane Guest Blogger
Beth is a fashion designer author and environmentalist who went from launching high-end European fashion lines to creating her own philanthropic fashion collection Rain Tees. Her line of tees funds school supplies for children in Central and South America and plants a tree in a tropical rainforest for every item sold. Beth’s consulting agency Andira International helps brands build sustainable ideas into products events and campaigns. Visit raintees.com for more information.

Vegan Pet Food

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

You Don't Eat Meat But What About Fido and Fluffy?

Is it time to say buh-bye to kibbles and bits?

If you've adopted a cruelty-free diet you might be wondering if you should invite your pet to the party.

Nature vs. Nurture

There are many different opinions about whether dogs are carnivores omnivores or just “opportunistic grazers” who will eat anything - your new Uggs the couch electrical cords tampons. Yes some dogs just looove pawing through nasty crap the trash. But what's the verdict on pets and veganism? Is there one?

Where’s the Beef?

Those on the carnivore side of the debate say that dogs are biologically required to eat animals to meet their nutritional needs. After all they argue Fido's got those specialized fangs for tearing and grinding meat into oblivion. They also flaunt the fact that dogs are unable to digest cellulose plant fiber but have elevated concentrations of stomach acid to better digest animal protein.

Would Your Dog Choose Tempeh?

Dogs are scavengers and can survive on a vegan diet if need be but the question is: Can they thrive? Many pet owners swear that their dog’s health improved once animal products were banned from the chow bowl. Some say their pooch’s coat became thicker and shinier ooo! while others say arthritis and allergies miraculously disappeared. But even if we assume a vegan diet is healthier do you think your dog would choose tofu cubes over a turkey leg?

Ask the Vet

Most veterinarians still recommend an omnivorous diet to ensure that Princess K-9 gets all her essential nutrients. Others disagree. Kathryn E. Michel an associate professor of nutrition at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine believes that "the important thing is that you use a diet that has been shown to be nutritionally adequate for whatever stage of life you're feeding and it is absolutely possible to find a good quality commercial pet food that doesn't have animal products in it.”

Then there are other vets who take the safe middle ground recommending serving one vegan meal a week for an easy doggy detox.

Risky Business

Whether or not you think that a vegan diet is right for your pet it pays to be safe. Remember the deadly pet food recall in 2007? Or how about the more recent shocker where they found high levels of flame retardants in dogs’ blood!. Like human chow commercial pet food can contain a smorgasbord of toxins: chemical preservatives antibiotics hormones and heavy metals. Oh and some brands are even irradiated to supposedly reduce disease risk.

Uh scary.

The bottom line is that dog food labels are misleading and the pet food industry is poorly regulated by the FDA surprise surprise.

What to Look For in Vegan Pet Food

When reading pet food labels the first three ingredients are the most important. If buying vegan you should see “corn” “rice” “wheat” and “soybean meal” at the top of the list. Opt for organic when possible and run the other way if you find “meat by-products” anywhere on the package. The food should also contain added supplements such as the amino acids Taurine and L-Carnatine which help to provide a complete and balanced diet for your furry friend.

Two good vegan dog food choices are V-Dog and Evolution.

For tasty vegan dog treats we recommend Mr. Barky’s and Gingerbread Snaps just in time for the holidays. Come on we know you totally stuff a stocking for your miniature schnauzer.

Another option for eco-conscious and ethical pet owners is to start making delicious and nutritious meals at home. You have control over what goes into the food and can save money at the same time. If grandma never passed down her favorite vegan dog food recipe you can find some scrumptious ones in The Simple Little Vegan Dog Book.

Do note however that you should probably consult a veterinarian nutritionist before making any drastic changes to your dog’s diet. Or consult your dog with some telepathic voodoo. Whatever works.

For all you cat lovers? Most experts agree that cats are obligate carnivores which means they need meat to survive. However we have heard of some cat owners who've been successful with feeding Fluffy a meat-free diet. If you really want to avoid the whole carnivore/omnivore dilemma get a plant-eating rabbit goat horse or guinea pig.

Do you feed your pet a vegan diet? Tell us about your experiences on in the comments section below. Woof! Woof!

Susan Emmer FOOD Feature Editor
Susan is a certified whole health educator and coach treading on both wellness and green terrain. Earning an environmental studies degree before green was the new black Susan is the owner of the sustainability marketing and PR firm Farmacy Agency. Follow her on Twitter wellnewsnetwork.

Rockin' Ratatouille

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

A Savory and Filling Dish for the In-Laws Plus It's Gluten-Free!

Want something hearty on those chilly fall nights? This healthy dish will warm you up from the inside out.

Serves: 4

What You Need

2 shallots minced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 small red onion chopped
1/2 cup tomato juice
2 large zucchinis chopped
3 large yellow squashes chopped
2 red bell peppers chopped
2 orange bell peppers chopped
1 large eggplant peeled and chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes chopped
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
1/3 cup fresh basil chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil finely chopped

How to Make It

Spray a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray then sauté shallots garlic and red onion. Add the tomato juice and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients and cook over medium heat for an additional 15 minutes covered or until veggies are soft and tender.

Transfer to serving bowls. Serve warm with fresh basil.

Amie Valpone Food Blogger
The gal behind The Healthy Apple Amie Valpone HHC AADP is a Manhattan-based culinary marketing consultant specializing in gluten-free "clean" eating. Amie is also a culinary nutritionist spending time with clients as a Food Allergy Concierge and Pantry Stylist in the big apple of Manhattan and publisher of the all-new gluten-free online magazine Easyeats.com.

Teas for Your Mood

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Raging Mad or Bitterly Blue? No Matter Your Mood There’s a Tea for You!

Who says you can't drink away your problems?

While a stiff cosmo can be the perfect anecdote to a broken heart or stress-induced headache we've got a better idea.

Move over pity party. It's time for a tea party.

Tea has the power to turn your frown upside down spike your fuel gauge from empty to full help you raise the roof and even beat your PMS brain crazies. As the weather starts turning and you're craving a warm drink sip on a mug of Mother Nature’s brew - no matter what mood you're in.

Pick Me Up Please

Need a boost? There’s no doubt that caffeine will flip your switch but too often it drops you on your ass and ruins your buzz in the end. Here are some teas that can give you the jolt you need you junkie:

Guayusa. Made from an Amazonian tree leaf this tea gives you more caffeine than green or black tea. We can see why the native Kichwa people call on it for "mental strength and courage." We call on it for not falling asleep at the wheel or snoozing during board meetings.

Pu-erh. It's got enough caffeine to help improve alertness and mental clarity even when you've got a bad case of the Mondays.

Green and Blues. We all know that green tea is coffee's famous cousin but oolong tea – sometimes called blue tea - also delivers a caffeinated boost.

Yerba Mate. This rainforest plant from Paraguay has a unique earthy taste and about one-third the amount of caffeine in your cup of joe.

Settle Down Sister

Need to mellow the hell out? Anxiety stress and frustration all mean your system is wired. Try these non-caffeinated teas for their ability to cool your jets:

Holy Basil. Regarded as downright sacred in Ayurvedic medicine holy basil can help reduce levels of that trendy stress hormone we all fear cortisol.

Lemon Balm. With a gentle sedative action lemon balm can help reduce tension in both the body and brain. Ahhh...

Chamomile. No need for introductions but don't forget why chamomile was what your mother made you when she wanted you to conk out early. It's got incredible calming properties for even the most frazzled Fran.

Peppermint. While mint may seem like a stimulating substance peppermint has a cooling and soothing effect on mental stress and physical tension. Plus it does wonders for your dragon breath.

Hormone Help

On the hormonal hot seat? From PMS to pregnancy to peri-menopause and beyond teas can be a bitchy gal's best friend. Why? These herbs can actually help to regulate hormones and in doing so help alleviate the symptoms of hormonal imbalances:

Raspberry and Nettle Leaf. Known as a uterine tonic this tea can help balance hormones and assist with strengthening fertility.

Rosehip. Rich in iron rosehip tea is a menstruating girl's salvation especially if you're anemic. Hello iron and vitamin C!

Licorice root. Irregular periods? Licorice root might help to restore normal ovulation. It may also help to treat depression cramps and keep you from going bat-shit crazy when you're on your rag.

Maca. This medicinal herb is famous for its libido-boosting properties. Need we say more? Drink up!

Oh The Agony

Feeling the burn? You don't have to live with chronic pain or endure those daily stress headaches. Turn off the inflammation and burn with the following teas:

Turmeric. No not just your go-to spice for curry. Tumeric helps with inflammation soothing your muscles and acting as a powerful cure-all for aches and pains.

Ginger. Another anti-inflammatory wonder ginger is great for stomach or digestive pains and headaches.

Brazilian mint. It's been said that Brazilian mint treats pain just as effectively as some synthetic drugs. Um we'll choose that over an Ativan any day thanks.

Lavender. Lavender tea can be great for relieving rashes or skin ailments. It also helps with stomach problems and migraines.

Remember not all teas are created equal. Some may not be safe if you're pregnant or have certain medical conditions. Be sure to check with your doctor before you go a-brewin' - and don't ever brew fresh herbs without ensuring their quality and safety.

Here are some of the brands we love: Yogi Gyuayaki Rishi Traditional Medicinals Numi and Runa. Check out their websites or visit your local health food store to stock up!

What teas do you use to fight the brain crazies or mellow your mood? Let us know in the comments section below!

Have a question for Ashley? Email us at infohealthybitchdaily.com and we'll get your questions answered.

Ashley Koff R.D. Resident Dietitian
Named among the Top 10 Registered Dietitians in the U.S. by Today’s Dietitian Magazine Koff appears regularly on national media outlets including Dr. Oz The Doctors Good Morning America Health CNN AOL and E!. Koff is also the dietitian for espnW and the featured dietitian on the CW’s “Shedding for the Wedding” and Lifetime’s “Love Handles.” Koff maintains a private practice regularly lectures and works to improve the quality of food choices on the sets of popular shows such as Private Practice CSI: New York Big Love It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Bones. Her book Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged Hay House 2011 hits stands later this summer. For more information please visit AshleyKoffRd.com.

Fall Boots for the Vegan Fashionista

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

Chic and Trendy Footwear Doesn't Have to Go Moo Or Break the Bank

When it comes to scoring this season’s hottest boots don’t have a cow babe.

If you missed Fashion Week this year here’s the roundup: back in are 70’s-inspired flared jeans chunky gold jewelry high-waisted skirts and bold prints.

Another trend we saw over and over? Chic and sexy boots that make us yearn for old man winter.

Fashion Dilemma

When it comes to our favorite fall footwear staple we want the newest looks without dropping a ton of cash. And most of all we don’t want anything killed in the name of our struts.

Luckily the hippest vegan designers are well ahead of you crafting fashion-forward boots from materials like synthetic animal-free leather bamboo luxe plastics and specially-designed cloth that feels so much like suede that the bitchy fashion snob at your office won’t even know the difference.

Salivating yet? We rounded up a few options to tickle your footwear fancy:

For the Financially Well-Endowed

Feeling the urge to splurge?

If you've got the extra cash these black Burberry boots are completely animal-free and totally gorgeous. Not just for rainy days these sleek kickers can be dressed down with jeans or spruced up with leggings and a cute skirt. And they say high-fashion can't be cruelty-conscious. Psh.

They ring up at 275 but you can't really put a price on being fabulous now can you?

For the Slightly-Splurge Inclined

If you want a similar look for less try these black riding boots pictured left by GC Shoes. They have the lush feel of a more expensive shoe complete with lace-up detailing in the back and a fold-over cuff that can give you an entirely different look. For 81 you're not breaking the bank but still getting great quality.

If you like flat boots but want a bit more of a heel try these Chinese Laundry boots for 99.95.

For the Savvy Spender

Steal of the day? Vegan Chic makes a pair of riding boots left for under fifty bucks and they’re pretty darn cute if we do say so ourselves.

And if saving animals from becoming your footwear wasn’t good enough check out these wrap boots by TOMS for under 100. They might look a little different from what we saw on the runway this year but your do-gooder heart will get a major ego-boost with this purchase.

In case you’ve been living under a rock for every pair of shoes TOMS sells one gets delivered to a child in need. Totally awesome no?

The Bottom Line

We're convinced that animal-free footwear doesn't require a fashion compromise. Since even faux sheepskin boots come in tons of colors and styles these days you can totally keep up with the trends without having to skin anything.

Have you found a kickin' pair of cruelty-free boots? Leave a comment in the comments section below and we may give you a call out on Facebook.

Jennifer St. Germain Contributing Writer
A long-time health and fitness writer Jennifer recently moved back to Los Angeles after spending two years writing and teaching English in Japan. She now writes for several publications on a variety of topics but veganism and animal rights are her favorite subjects. When she isn't writing you can find her drinking a little too much organic coffee playing with her dogs or photographing her third favorite subject - jellyfish.

What The Hell Do I Buy? Toxic-Free Tampons

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

'Cause a Lady Must Care What She Puts Up There

We’ve all broken the cardinal tampon rule.

Despite the warnings on the box you've gone longer than eight hours without swapping your cotton.

And while incidents of Toxic Shock Syndrome TSS have decreased since we first heard about them in middle school it’s still wise to protect yourself by being vigilant about what you’re putting near your vajayjay.

Chemicals in Your Kitty

In case you’ve forgotten just how sensitive your little kitty can be stop and think about what may be lurking in those drugstore feminine hygiene products. Conventional cotton is the world’s most extensively sprayed product: pesticides chlorine bleaches insecticides and other toxins are all commonly found in non-organic tampons and pads. They can cause irritation endometriosis TSS and even cancer thanks to dioxin a toxic manufacturing by-product.

Do you really want to put that toxic crap into something as sacred and absorbent as your woman cave?

Your Period is Bad for the Environment

Besides harming your vag these products are also bad for the environment - and we use a lot of them. Approximately 73 million American women use tampons. Over the course of her life the average woman will use 16800 tampons. More than 45 billion feminine hygiene products are disposed of every year. If you can't do math that's a shitload of waste. It's also a lot of toxins leaching into our bodies the ground and our water supply. Ew.

In addition conventional tampon brands use plastic made from crude oil and the very production of it creates environmental toxins and climate-changing gasses. These plastics aren’t biodegradable meaning that they’ll pollute our land and oceans forever.

Hygiene Hero

Thankfully lifetime environmentalist humanitarian and mom Susie Hewson developed Natracare the world’s first certified 100 percent organic cotton tampon brand providing women with a healthier environmentally-friendly option. Shocked and angry about the presence of toxins in feminine hygiene products she launched the company in 1989. Today they’re the leading brand of organic and natural pads tampons and other personal care products.

Products that Please

Natracare’s line includes tampons panty liners sanitary pads nursing pads baby wipes and intimate wipes. The products are all compostable biodegradable and made from only organic and natural GMO-free materials such as cellulose that are derived from renewable and sustainable resources. Translation? No synthetics like rayon toxic chemicals or plastics. They’re also vegan and were tested on human volunteers not animals. And since they’re free of perfumes dyes and toxins switching to organic can reduce the itching rashes or other irritations that some women experience from using conventional tampons or pads.

Sounds good to us.

With a commitment to women’s health and the environment the company has won many ethical and environmental awards and is the first feminine hygiene company in the world to achieve an EPD Environmental Product Declaration. Best of all in our experience they work better than conventional products.

Taking care of your kitty while protecting the environment? Clearly a two-bird-one-stone type of situation.

The Verdict

Pros: Easy to find all around the world and they work as well as conventional products.

Cons: We can't think of any!

Natracare products are available at natural food stores and selected supermarkets pharmacies and drugstores. Tampons range from 3.99 for a box of eight without applicators to 6.99 for a 20-pack with applicators.

Bitchworthy: If you're NAF not a fan of tampons you can also check out the Softcup. This tiny wonder is worn internally and collects the menstrual flow instead of absorbing it. It's a diaphragm-like device that can be worn up to 12 hours even while you're swimming sleeping studying or sexing. Another plus? Softcup is made entirely of hypoallergenic non-toxic latex-free non-irritating material. Hallelujah to that!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Let us know in the comments below and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications she does sales marketing writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics detoxing at the co-op scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

Stuff Your Face Solve Your Skin Woes

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

The Right Foods Can Banish Blemishes and Give You that Girly Glow

All the night cream in the world won’t save your lizard skin honey.

If you’re still slathering on your daily dose of chemical crap for pimples wrinkles or age spots put down the products and listen up.

After giving up meat renouncing dairy products forever and swearing off GMOs many of us wonder why the hell our skin isn't clearing up. I’m doing everything right you’re whining. So why the constant battle against acne dull complexions under-eye bags and crow's feet?

What’s a girl gotta do to get that “just had a quickie over lunch” glow?

The answer lies in your diet. Even if you’re eating your veggies like a good little vegan you might be missing some important foods that provide the essential nutrients for a radiant face and perfect pores.

Let’s review them shall we?

Orange is the New Black

Vitamin A. This power player vitamin is responsible for keeping your skin in tip-top shape. It promotes the production of skin-building compounds and helps maintain the overall “structure” of the skin. Move over saggy jowls and wrinkles. Get your A from things like pumpkin carrots sweet potatoes spinach kale cantaloupe chile peppers and asparagus. Since vitamin A is fat-soluble it’s best to pair it with foods that have some healthy fat like olive oil or avocado.

Bitch Tip: Make a simple pumpkin smoothie out of organic canned pumpkin and almond milk. Delish.

Think Zinc

Zinc. Need an oil change? Zinc helps keep the skin’s oil production in check so you don’t make too much or too little of it. This mineral helps to tame acne and regenerate cells quickly. No need to become a pill popper: get your zinc from lentils chickpeas lima beans almonds sunflower seeds walnuts and peas.

Bitch Tip: Keep a bag of mixed seeds and nuts at your desk or in your purse. You’ll have zinc and protein on the go.

Up the Anti

Antioxidants. Girl get your berry on. I’m talkin’ blueberries plums blackberries pomegranates and strawberries. Antioxidants help fight free radicals that basically want to make our skin look haggard and old. Eat your berries. Nuff said.

Bitch Tip: Eat fruit alone to reap the most nutrients and digest it properly.

Hey Fatty

Essential Fatty Acids. EFA’s help our cell membranes stay healthy which means that they help block out harmful substances and lock in moisture. More moisture = plump lush skin. Get your fatty acids from walnuts flax seeds hemp whole grains and blue-green algae.

Bitch Tip: Sprinkle flax seeds over your oatmeal or cereal.

C for Yourself

Vitamin C: Feeling old? Vitamin C gives skin that youthful bright glow by strengthening the immune system repairing tissue healing wounds and fighting the signs of aging. Kick rocks crow's feet! Make sure you’re getting enough of this important vitamin through foods like lemons oranges broccoli cauliflower and kale.

Bitch Tip: Squeeze a fresh lemon or orange into a glass of water. Hydration C = girlish glow.

Now that you have an excuse to eat go stuff your face with some skin-friendly foods.

Cause beauty really does come from the inside out.

Mara Tyler Managing Editor of HealthyBitchDaily.com
Mara Tyler is a health and wellness die-hard with a penchant for sarcasm. A former public relations and marketing professional she's helped grow bleeding-heart health and fitness startups into successful companies with the wave of her magic wand. When she’s not berating her friends for eating Big Macs or preaching to her family about the wonders of green smoothies she can be found reading bad chick lit scouting out new indie bands or attempting to find bliss in yoga. Mara lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Black Bean Tacos on a Bun

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:00:00 -0700

It's Like a Taco and Burger Got Married

A twist on the traditional veggie burger with a little Mexican flair...

Serves: 4 to 6

What You Need

Burger Patties

1 carrot sliced and steamed
1 15-ounce can black beans
1/2 cup green bell pepper finely chopped
1/2 cup onion finely chopped
2 cups salsa
1 cup dried bread crumbs or tortilla chips finely crushed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 packet of taco seasoning or more if desired

Fixins'

Vegan cheddar cheese sliced or shredded We love Daiya Cheese!
Burger buns split
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Red onion sliced or diced optional
Salsa optional
Guacamole optional
Vegan sour cream optional

How to Make It

Mash beans and steamed carrot in a large bowl. Mix in green pepper onion salsa bread crumbs/tortillas and flour. Season with salt pepper and taco seasoning to taste. Add flour to create a firmer mixture or more salsa if the mixture is too stiff. Form mixture into 8 patties and place on a greased baking sheet.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and coat with cooking spray. Fry the patties for about 8 minutes on each side or until browned and firm. Melt cheese onto patty if desired.

Serve on buns with lettuce tomato onions salsa guacamole and/or sour cream. Enjoy!

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton Recipe Editor
An avid traveler and crusader for health nuts around the world Carolyn Scott-Hamilton is the executive producer creator host and writer of The Healthy Voyager web series & radio show site blog brand and social network. Visit Healthyvoyager.com.