Buckwheat is a healthy and versatile addition to any diet, as you’ll see in these recipes. From salad to dessert, buckwheat comes in many forms and can be used in endless types of recipes.
It’s often thought of as a cereal grain, but it’s actually a seed! In any case, buckwheat is naturally gluten-free. It’s also low-glycemic, associated with blood sugar handling, linked to a decreased risk of both diabetes and heart disease, and can help prevent gallstones.
The list of health benefits is a long one!
Buckwheat is pretty nutritious compared to other grains like rice. It’s also more sustainable than oh-so-popular quinoa. It contains fibre and important minerals like manganese, copper, magnesium and phosphorous.
You can find it in a few forms including buckwheat flour, buckwheat groats (kasha) and buckwheat noodles a.k.a. soba noodles. It makes a nice alternative to those who want to avoid wheat flour or have a gluten intolerance.
Plus, it has a nutty taste that pairs well with many foods both sweet and savory.
Like with most grains or pseudograins like buckwheat, its health benefits are increased when it’s properly soaked and sprouted prior to cooking or consuming.
It makes it easier to digest, and the vitamins and minerals that are present are more bioavailable meaning that the body can utilize them easier. Here are ten of our favorite recipes to try your hand at.
1. Chunky chocolate buckwheat granola
Let’s begin with breakfast! Buying cereal at the store is an obvious no-go if you’re trying to eat healthy. All you have to do is read the ingredients to see why. This granola brings in that sweet crunch you’re after without all the junk.
Oh, and there’s chocolate, so it’s an obvious winner. Toasty hazelnuts give it that dangerously good Nutella vibe. Who doesn’t want to kick off their day with a bowl of this stuff? Get the recipe from My New Roots.
2. Overnight coconut buckwheat porridge
You’ve maybe heard of overnight oats or chia pudding, but this is the two combined – minus the oats. Ask any diehard oatmeal fan if they get sick of eating porridge, and the answer is likely a resounding “no.”
Still, it’s good to switch up the grain sometimes! This buckwheat bowl is ready for you when you wake up, packed with omega-3s, healthy fats, fibre and more to keep you plenty full until lunchtime. Get the recipe from Foolproof Living.
3. Chicken stew with buckwheat and avocado
Buckwheat serves as a gorgeous base to top off with stews. It soaks up the flavours well, adds a layer of texture, and provides its nutty taste to the rest of the meal. The stew and the buckwheat just work together.
This meal has a perfect balance of low-glycemic starch and veggies paired with a punch of protein. The avocado adds the healthy fats and boom! You’ve got yourself a meal. Get the recipe from Maria Ushakova.
4. Pumpkin buckwheat stew with kale & turmeric
This vegetarian delight is rich and hearty with fall flavors from fresh, creamy pumpkin and warming spices like cinnamon and cumin. It’s just a little bit spicy with fresh chili and you can tweak it to your liking.
The buckwheat and chickpeas bring in the robust base in this stew. Plus, it features two of our favorite superfoods: kale and turmeric! This healthy, filling meal should be a staple in your autumnal meatless Monday routine.
5. Buckwheat noodles with chicken, kale & miso dressing
This recipe features soba noodles which are made with buckwheat flour and traditionally featured in Asian-inspired dishes. This simple pasta is nourishing and packed with umami from the miso dressing.
It provides a super healthy dose of veggies from mushrooms and kale, and protein from tender, sliced chicken. Get the recipe on Happy Body Formula.
6. Mediterranean halloumi buckwheat nourish bowls
This nourish bowl does just what it says it does – nourishes! Grilled halloumi cheese is the star in this buckwheat dish, undeniably. It’s smothered with a “magical,” herby green sauce with Mediterranean flavors from tahini, lemon and fresh parsley.
It’s basically a loaded salad but better. There is room for plenty of veggies in this dish. You can easily swap our cheese for chicken, some beans or your choice of protein. Get the recipe from Nourish Everyday.
7. Summer buckwheat salad
This lively summer salad incorporates the absolute best in seasonal produce from juicy, ripe blueberries to perfectly plump peaches. It’s served tossed with a simple blend of rocket, mint and walnuts with an EVOO and lemon dressing.
The buckwheat lends some chew to each bite. This light salad is refreshing and full of antioxidant-rich foods. Get the recipe from Nirvana Cakery.
8. Buckwheat banana pancakes
Banana pancakes are the ultimate comfort food. Just think about cutting into a thick, fluffy stack of flapjacks smothered in maple syrup and banana coins.
These guys aren’t your average diner food, either; they’re actually pretty good for you. They’re gluten-free, vegan and refined sugar-free! Get the recipe from The Awesome Green.
9. Buckwheat crepes with Greek salad & eggs
Maybe you’re more of a savory person when it comes to brekky. If so, buckwheat makes a fantastic crepe which you can truly stuff with anything you like. We really like this protein and veg-heavy combination of Greek salad with feta cheese and black olives with some eggs tucked in there.
This is an awesome A.M. powerhouse; try it with smoked salmon and cream cheese or berries and cream, too. Get the recipe from Healthy Recipe Ecstasy.
10. Seedy Buckwheat Bread (Gluten-free)
This gluten-free and egg-free break is full of buckwheat groats, pumpkin seeds, sesame and chia seeds and linseeds, all held together by nutty buckwheat flour, water and some psyllium husk to avoid any risk it turning into a crumbly mess.
This bread can be sliced super thinly, toasted to a savory granola-like crunch and it is sturdy enough to be the perfect vehicle for open-faced sandwiches. Recipe from Real Simple Food.
11. Buckwheat “Garden” Salad
Full of nutritious, crunchy veggies and flavourful ingredients like olives, herbs, citrus juice and nuts, this cold buckwheat salad is a real superfood powerhouse. It’s great for a lazy warm evening or a weekend lunch. Recipe from The Healthy Foodie.
12. Gluten-free honey buckwheat spice cake
Gluten-free, refined sugar-free and full of delicious spices that complement buckwheat incredibly well, this recipe means you can have your cake and eat it too (without the bellyache).
This cake is also really simple to make with a rather small list of ingredients, and it’s entirely dairy-free – even the coconut cream and honey frosting. Get the recipe from Gluten-Free Girl.
Did you know how many awesome recipes you could make with buckwheat? Hopefully, this roundup has inspired you to use more of it in your cooking. Tell us what dishes you’re looking forward to below!
If you’ve been paying attention to trends what everyone seems to be talking about, you might have come across the term hygge. This silly-looking word is pronounced “hue-gah,” and it’s a noun, an adjective, and a verb all in one.
It was actually a contender for Oxford Dictionary’s coveted “word of the year” title in 2016, and despite not quite making it, it is pretty buzzworthy. Perhaps, if Happy Body Formula had to choose a word of the year for 2017, hygge would be it.
What does it mean?
It’s a Danish word but there actually is no direct translation of hygge to English. The dictionary definition reads, “A quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).”
In short, it means cosy. Think exposed wood, fireplaces, accent rugs, throw blankets, candles burning, festive wool socks, cinnamon buns and cardamom pods.
Basically, if living through the cold, northern winters looked and smelled more like it does within a log cabin on Instagram, that’s hygge. But it’s not just about the things and the setting; the definition mostly entails a mindset.
You won’t have to skip town for a more remote location to practice the art of Danish happiness. You can read more about it in The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking.
Denmark and its neighboring countries are notoriously happy. Could all this bliss be attributed to hygge? Potentially. While these regions are also notoriously cold and sometimes dark, their people thrive – especially in the winter!
All that snuggling up by the fire with a cup of cocoa or glogg might have some actual benefits beyond feeling indulgent. By the way, did we mention indulgence is actually a cornerstone of hygge?
Hygge entails a degree of healthy hedonism, by way of really just enjoying life. Of all the wellness trends that will come and go, hygge serves as a counterargument.
Think about the average “next new thing” in diet or fitness; there is often a notion of perfection or strictness involved. Hygge comes in to say, “Breathe, relax.”
It’s okay to be self-indulgent, and in fact, that might be a vital part of quality of life and overall happiness. While there are plenty of things you can do or purchase to practise hygge, adopting the mentality and taking on more hygge experiences is what it’s really about.
Here are a few key components to keep in mind:
Togetherness
Harmony
Comfort
Mindfulness
Atmosphere
Equality
How to hygge your way to happy
Hygge is merely a concept, and it truly encompasses a mindset. Envision a romantic scenario in which you head home to your hyggekrog a.k.a. cosy nook, wrap yourself up in a decorative throw, take a seat on the floor around your friends and turn on a movie or break out a board game.
Hygge can sound a bit reclusive, but it really drives home the need to keep good company. If you’re looking for hygge watching material, consider fictional horror or murder mysteries. If it’s raining outside, even better. Are we painting a good picture for you?
In our fast-paced western society, where time at home isn’t always romantic, hygge can feel hard to adopt. The Danes on the other hand don’t always have much of a reason to leave the house.
The winters are long, eating out is incredibly expensive, and there isn’t always some event or party tempting individuals to hit the town. Hygge is a way of coping, and it can be especially effective in combatting seasonal affective disorder.
If anyone has mastered the art of enjoying winter, it’s the Danes!
While many wellnes trends can run up a huge bill (hello, gourmet avocado toast and designer yoga pants!), hygge is affordable, accessible and highly individual. You can sort of do it your own way and on your own budget.
It’s less about gratification and more about savoring the moment, however it’s done. While much of the movement feels like feng-shui and some redecorating may be in order, remember: it’s more about what you add than what you take away.
Besides, your house will look good in Danish-style – promise!
1. Burn more candles
This one is simple, and you can do it. Splurge on some nice, locally made, natural candles, if you can. Unscented is good, but you can also opt for warm, wintry scents with comforting spices or vanilla bean.
Do you catch the drift here? The average Dane burns 13 pounds of candle wax per year. Are you ready to step up your game? There are no real rules besides making sure you practice fire safety.
Make sure to blow the candles out at night! Otherwise, in the name of happiness, get burning. Here are some of our favorite suggestions:
Glogg is simply a Swedish name for mulled wine with a little extra. A standard, old-fashioned recipe includes whiskey and rum amongst citrust and almonds, too. You’ll take the somewhat potent liquid and warm it up with quintessential hygge ingredients like cardamom, cinnamon and cloves.
Can you see why you might want to implement the whole ‘savoring the moment’ deal with this drink? After a glass of that, you can’t help but relax!
3. Host a potluck
Nordic cuisine is a staple of hygge, so get familiar with fresh bread, porridges, beef tartare, and anything that says winter to you. Keep in mind something else these foods have in common: they’re simple.
Think of the warming notes featured in glogg or hearty soups, stews, meats and seasonal produce. More important than the food is the company!
Savoring the moment is easily done in a crowd of people sat around a table in dim lighting with unique offerings from everyone involved.
Being social is also a key factor in warding off the winter blues. You could also choose to take advantage of the short days with a brunch get-together instead, tucking into comfort food like pancakes and fresh, fragrant maple syrup.
Do you see the indulgence coming in? Bonus: you can show off your hygge decor – think rustic wooden plates and a printed tablecloth – to your friends. The potluck premise also invites others to help and work together which is so hygge!
If your pals are offering a hand in the kitchen, say YES! The Danes might even think this is more polite than denying the gesture.
4. Linger on
This is probably one of the most important facets of the hygge mindset to adapt, and it doesn’t come easy to western society. We are rushed and crunched for time, even if we’re not – it’s just instilled in us!
Once everyone’s done eating, don’t rush to clear the plates and move on to whatever is next. The best of dinner is yet to be had! Indulge in conversation, another glass of glogg or just some continued reflection on the meal that was served.
By not rushing dinner in the first place, you can practice mindful eating. Once you’ve established your place at the table, you won’t feel as rushed to finish up in the first place. This is easier said than done, but it is the true Danish way!
5. Fix up your lighting
Lighting is kind of a big deal, even if it doesn’t sound like a priority to you. The Danes would beg to differ, and this is probably in part due to those 3 p.m. winter sunsets.
Even if the house has windows on every wall, daylight is scarce. We’re not telling you to mimic the sun, either; we’re just telling you to kill the overhead and create a mood – a good mood.
Candles are an easy way to do this, but you can also opt to string up some LED lights around the house for that Christmas-all-year vibe, rely on the fireplace or wood stove (bonus hygge points!), or if you’re really serious, you can install an adjustable lighting system in the preexisting lights throughout the home. Some can even be controlled with your smart phone!
6. Get baking
Indulgence involves bread and sweets, of course. The difference in the Danes is that these things are a labour of love rather than a convenience food. Bread is baked fresh with quality ingredients and shared amongst guests over a long afternoon.
Sweets, treats and cakes are a way of welcoming someone into the home or celebrating something special, even if it’s just a long and slow weekend day.
While the house will take on the gorgeous smell wafting throughout, the act of baking is merely another way to savor the moment and savor another’s company.
Try a fresh sourdough or work up a signature gluten-free dough recipe if you prefer to avoid the stuff. Oh, and do you know what’s really hygge? Cinnamon rolls – and not the ones from IKEA!
7. Go outside (yes, even if it’s cold!)
Whether you’re in the city or residing in a mountain town, the winter has a ton to offer! Even if the sun sets before you can finish your lunch (okay, we’re being dramatic here), there’s something magic about the way the lights fall on the snow-covered trees and buildings in the dark.
One of the most obvious reasons for seasonal affective disorder is a lack of vitamin D, so if you can spare some daylight hours, head on our beneath the sun.
It’s yet another simple way to take your time. Once you get into the rhythm of walking – and especially if you’re wearing the right clothes – you’ll warm up and ideally, you’ll find yourself in a meditative state.
The best part? Knowing you get to head home to a comfy fire, warm socks and a hot chocolate.
8. Put away the devices
Hygge embraces living in the moment, taking things stride by stride and engaging your surroundings whether it’s the lighting or the people, or a little bit of both.
While movies and music can easily be a part of your Danish living room vibe, it’s important to be considerate of how much time you’re checking notifications and putting your fingers to the screen.
What do you think about hygge? Is it worth the hype? We think the Danish art of happiness has so much to draw from, so here’s a friendly reminder to slow down the pace and light a candle or two!
The office lunch has a reputation for being rather sad, for lack of a better word. How often do you really look over at your co-worker’s lunch with envy in your eyes?
Many people find packing their lunch in the first place to be a rare occasion, and instead opt for takeout. The options then dwindle down to even more lackluster choices, and we’re not always leaning towards healthier fare.
Sandwiches, pizza, pasta and other carb-heavy foods adorn our desks – a place we don’t even take the time to really enjoy what we’re eating!
While the 9-week Happy Body Formula program offers a complete lunch survival guide from home to your favorite restaurants, we wanted to spark some creativity with some fresh and innovative ideas for the lunch rut.
We want to revolutionize the “office meal,” so we have 15 healthy, nourishing and enviable meals for you to add to your prep routine. These meals are simple to make ahead of time, and they’ll help you prevent that dreadful, 2 p.m. slump with energizing and satiating ingredients to keep you fueled up throughout the work day.
Salads don’t suck when they’re packed full of warm chicken, fresh sliced avocado, tasty Moroccan spices and a slightly sweet Dijon and lemon dressing.
This dish is loaded with vitamins, protein, and healthy fats to keep you pushing through the work day. Get the recipe from Eat Drink Paleo.
2. Ground beef taco bowls
Recipe: Real Simple Good
If you find yourself dipping out of the work place on the hunt for tacos or a burrito everyday, save yourself the trouble and DIY it. This grain-free bowl features a base of cauliflower rice, and it’s easily topped off with raw ingredients and pre-cooked protein.
You could even add seafood, chicken or shredded pork to mix things up. Beats paying extra for guac everyday (we’re looking at you, Chipotle). Get the recipe from Real Simple Good.
3. Kelp noodle pot
Recipe: Deliciously Ella
What if we told you that you could DIY your own instant soup? Skip the excessive amounts of sodium, unnatural flavors and MSG. Instead, opt for healthy kelp noodles with the added benefits of seaweed and tasty veggies.
Fresh ginger and herbs, citrus and miso will bring this pot to life with just a bit of hot water when it’s time for lunch. Get the recipe from Deliciously Ella.
4. Paleo mason jar salads
Recipe: Eat Drink Paleo
Mason jar salads don’t only look pretty cool, they taste pretty fantastic too. It’s all about strategic layering with these guys. You want your protein on the bottom so it doesn’t weigh down on the lighter ingredients and moving on upwards with harder veggies on the bottom and salad leaves on the top.
Pro-tip: leave the dressing on the side so it doesn’t get soggy, and serve on a plate or bowl at lunch. You can avoid wasting plastic and trash by using glass, too. Get some more inspiration with a few recipes from Eat Drink Paleo.
5. Deconstructed paleo sushi bowl
Recipe: Mel Joulwan
Sushi is a wildly popular lunch option, and for good reason. Instead of loading up on rice, fried tempura and that delicious-but-mysterious spicy sauce, you can take the ‘bowl’ route like we did for our burrito above and feel good about what you’re chowing down on.
This meatless dish is loaded with plant protein, healthy fats from the creamy tahini dressing, and loads of nutrients from the kale. Cook up a big batch of chickpeas and quinoa at the beginning of the week to use in your bowls, and add different veggies/leftovers throughout the week for variety.
Lettuce wraps are a fantastic lunch to bring to work with you. You can assemble the sides, the lettuce, the protein and the dressing when you sit down to eat which should help you slow down and savor the moment in your busy day a little bit more!
These shrimp boats are super flavorful and nutrient-dense with tasty slaw and a spicy kick. Get the recipe from The Garlic Diaries.
8. Burger bowl
Recipe: Follow the Ruels
Burgers are pretty standard lunch fare. Skip the bun and toss your burger on a big plate of greens. Forgo the fries in favor of sweet potato rounds. Proceed with toppings and condiments as usual.
This bowl is easily built, budget-friendly and it will definitely hit the fast-food craving! Get the recipe from Follow the Ruels.
9. Buffalo chicken breakfast casserole
Recipe: Living Loving Paleo
Who says breakfast can’t be what’s for lunch? We’re not fans of ‘following the rules’ around here, so this spicy breakfast bake is the perfect one-stop shop for a nourishing and super filling lunch!
It tastes great hot or cold, and it hits all the notes in terms of great texture, adequate protein, green foods and healthy fats. Get the recipe from Living Loving Paleo.
10. Paleo tuna salad
Recipe: Paleo Running Momma
This isn’t your average tuna salad. In the middle of the workday, you deserve something a little extra special. This protein-packed dish includes smoky bacon, creamy avocado and spicy chipotle aioli.
How could you not look forward to eating it? The real struggle will be avoiding it until it’s finally time for lunch break! If you like this idea, check out this baked salmon loaf which packs up nicely. Get the recipe from Paleo Running Momma.
11. California turkey & bacon lettuce wraps
Recipe: Iowa Girl Eats
These are simple to make if you have some cooked bacon and mayo on hand. Otherwise, it comes together with natural deli meat, sliced avocado and tomato to make an awesome wrap – no bread required.
These are handheld, so if you’re an on-the-go kind of lunch-eater sometimes, consider this tasty recipe your go-to. Get the recipe from Iowa Girl Eats.
12. Cuban sandwich bowls
Recipe: Wicked Spatula
Making a salad might atcually be easier than making a sandwich, and we certainly think it’s the healthier of the two. This jam-packed bowl features crispy plantain chips, real pickles, pork loin and mojo sauce.
Drizzle it off with some mustard and you’ve got those awesome Cuban flavors for a unique spin on salad… because sandwich bowls are different! Get the recipe from Wicked Spatula.
13. Avocado & tuna salad
Recipe: Cook Eat Paleo
Tinned fish and avocado are a lunchtime match made in heaven. They require no prep and minimal assembly whilse boasting big nutrition, healthy fats, a protein punch and tons of flavor, texture and more.
Plus, you don’t technically need a bowl for these since the avocado serves multiple purposes. You could also use salmon, sardines or mackerel. Get the recipe from Cook Eat Paleo.
14. Broccoli salad with cashew cream
Recipe: Whole Yum
This is broccoli salad with a twist! It has that same creaminess brought in without the dairy, plus a bit of spice from the curry powder.
It’s packed with green goodness from the broccoli with a touch of smoke using crispy (real) bacon bits and sweetness from dried cranberries. You could add diced chicken or turkey to this, and it would taste awesome too. Get the recipe from Whole Yum.
15. Bento lunches in a box
Recipe: Paleo Leap
From mason jar lunches to bento boxes, we like all things compact and portable. Once again, these are an environmentally-friendly choice with dividers to help you portion properly and keep your food from touching.
The combinations are endless, but the formatting lends itself well to choosing a palm-sized protein portion, some veggies and/or fruit on the side, and a bit of healthy fat. The best part about lunch is balance!
Our free 7-day meal plan features five days worth of lunches (plus breakfasts and dinners!) packed into just three hours of prep if you need more healthy, packable ideas.
A brand new year is right around the corner, so if you’ve been infected with that “new year, new me” mentality, you might have a slew of ideas running around in your head. What will you finally get around to making happen this year?
If you’re anything like me or the rest of the world, chances are, you’ve embarked on the same journey time and time again in celebration of the clock striking midnight.
First, I want you to think about the resolutions you’ve made in the past, and especially the ones that never came to fruition. Next, I want you to recognize that making a resolution isn’t an event that should be limited to one day per year!
Rationally speaking, you probably already know this, but write it down if you have to.
Now, I want to tell you that setting a goal for the ‘dawning of a new era’ is a great idea if you set it right. Often, new year’s resolutions are weight-centric, fitness-focused, and rather vague when it comes down to it.
It’s easy to say, “I want to lose 20 pounds” or snag a gym membership on the first of the month, but where’s the passion? It’s just not there! Besides, a mere resolve only gets us so far; it’s the plan that counts. Read more about process vs. outcome-based goals.
Between helping you plan and setting resolutions outside of the box, we have some ideas for you to carry on into the new year as we turn over a new leaf. Perhaps, we’ll even do it together.
We’re big fans of sleep around here. Have you checked out our free 7-Day Sleep Challenge? If not, the new year is just the time to get on board. According to this study, the average adult is only getting around six hours of sleep per night!
You don’t need much more than that, though; the study also confirms that getting more or less than 7-8 hours of sleep contributes to your risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. So, it’s time to aim for the sweet spot.
Getting a good night’s rest is pretty much the first step to making the rest of your resolutions happen. It contributes to physical and mental health, and it provides us with the clear head we need to make other good decisions!
If you’re gearing towards getting healthy in the new year, believe us when we say THIS is the first step.
Get to giving
Generosity is a proven way to increase both mental and physical wellbeing. First, it helps us to shift our focus to others, thus becoming less invested in our own problems and often menial frustrations.
Second, it seamlessly immerses us into a community, which gives us a sense of working towards something bigger alongside other like-minded people. It also helps us to live in the moment and be more mindful of the people who surround us.
Finally, volunteering can actually fight depression and increase lifespan.
You can exercise charitable acts through small gestures of kindness here and there. Moreover, you can set a goal to volunteer as it fits into your schedule whether that’s once per week or once per month.
You could go above and beyond and get involved in a community organization that you feel passionate about. If you’re more of a ‘behind the scenes’ personality, you can simply set up direct deposit to donate to a cause you feel strongly about.
There are so many ways to practice generosity, and it’s a resolution worth making. Who knows? It could even help you pick up a new hobby.
Step up your social game
Adulthood often brings on new struggles in terms of us carving out time to see our friends. Jobs, marriage, kids and everything else that life tosses our way means being social dwindles to less and less of a regular occasion over time.
One of the reasons that volunteering is so valuable in terms of mental and emotional health IS the social aspect, though.
To elaborate on the goal of giving, you could start by organizing and hosting a dinner party or potluck with friends and family, weekly or monthly. You could also ask a friend to join you in a class or a new hobby.
Make it something with potential to be consistent, and don’t let your relationships fall to the wayside this year! Strengthening your current social circle is also a great way to expand it which can be a nice addition to your social resolves.
Opt outside more often
Many of us inherently spend a lot of time inside, but by doing so, we’re robbing ourselves of potential fitness opportunities, seeing new places and good ol’ vitamin D.
While it can be tough to get motivated to step out into the world in the depths of winter, it’s still a good time to resolve to spend a little more time outdoors in the new year.
Whether this means setting a simple goal of walking to run errands or to commute more often, or researching some local parks and trails to cross of your to-do list, it’s a highly beneficial goal to have.
Organizing time to gain perspective, play more and tap into your inner child, and practice functional fitness (i.e. walking or hiking) is an exercise for both the mind and body.
As a bonus, being in green space can reduce stress and boost energy levels.
Cross a destination off your bucket list
Travel is important to a lot of people, and naturally, it comes at a cost. Where have you been dying to go, but haven’t carved out the time or money to venture to yet?
Make it happen! For one, planning a trip gives us something to work on getting organized and saving money for (two other resolutions on this list). It could also contribute to you opting outside or stepping out of your comfort zone.
Talk about killing two or more birds with one stone.
If you plan ahead and research wisely, you can likely find discounted airfare and get away on a dime. While holidaying may seem like a frivolous expense, it’s a great way to reset mentally when you need it the most, and enjoy rare and uninterrupted time with the person/people you love the most.
We’re giving you the go-ahead here to treat yourself this coming year!
Reduce technology
Technology is rather ubiquitous in most people’s daily lives whether it’s work, play or a mixture of both. It’s more difficult than ever to tune out for any substantial period of time whether it’s a few minutes or an entire weekend.
While it may be nearly impossible for you to really do a digital detox, there are ways to reduce the amount of time we spend in front of the screen.
If you’re an avid television watcher, you could resolve to switch your cable to subscription services only. If you’re glued to your phone for most of the day, you can try an app like Moment which will track your screen time.
With that, you have a concrete number to work on reducing. You can also choose to set small goals such as not using your phone past a certain time, reducing screen time right out of bed (i.e. setting a 30-minute rule), or designating 1-2 phone-free weekends per month until you can work up to every weekend.
Have ‘money-fasting’ days
If you’re like many people, starting – and more importantly, sticking to – a budget is probably at the top of your list. What better time to start than the new year?
It’s easy to begin with, but it can feel nearly impossible to keep up with. This is especially true if you’re trying to pay down some old debts, or realizing you might be living a little (or a lot) outside of your means.
First, just being aware of your spending habits and creating an accountability system is a fantastic beginning. If you’re having trouble cutting back on frivolous expenses or stacking some savings, consider carving out one day per week that you spend no money at all.
It might be a small act in the long-term, but it can be really helpful to those who put their expenses in order and see how big their daily budget really is! Pack your coffee and your lunch, and opt for a night in.
Just sticking with this plan will help you be more mindful on your spending days, and hopefully bleed over into some other good habits (i.e. eating out less). If you’re really ambitious, you could do a spending fast for a week or a month – it’s possible!
Don’t just join a gym – go in with a goal
The gym is a place where we can reach serious potential, but it doesn’t come by simply signing up to the gym. In fact, it doesn’t always come even when we’re walking through the doors every day.
There are a few factors that go into this, but one of the most pervasive and destructive in terms of a fitness-related resolution is the lack of direction.
Look at all of the machines, classes, weights and other people putting in work. It’s simple to become overwhelmed or intimidated to the point of setting up some serious limits for ourselves, even if it is subconscious.
Ask yourself what you want your body to be capable of, and do some research. Ask some fitness professionals at the gym, or splurge on some training to build your confidence and your skill set. Do you want to get stronger? Do you want to be a runner?
Do you simply need a place to de-stress after a long day? All of these broad goals can be broken apart into smaller pieces and milestones to work towards. Make sure you’re getting what you want from the gym, and it will no longer feel like a chore, and you’ll actually look forward to going.
Start a bullet journal
Another common goal when the new year sets in is simply to get more organised. If you’re struggling with organisation already, simply saying you’re going to get it together once and for all is setting yourself up for a whole lot of frustrating.
A bullet journal has a simple format that is highly customizable and accessible. Besides – it’s fun! You’ll break down your life into monthly, weekly and daily calendars which will help you to visualize what needs to be done, and how much of it you’re getting done.
It’s a formula that can be tailored to anyone’s needs whether you’re a student, you work from home, or you just feel like you could use some more time in the day (couldn’t we all?).
Alternatively, you could use a pre-formatted ‘bullet journal’ like the Passion Planner if you think you might procrastinate on getting creative. Get your bullet journal inspiration here for how to get started and ideas.
Don’t diet – change your lifestyle
It almost seems futile to discuss why diets don’t work when they’re the centerpiece of your resolution, but let’s break it down a little bit. For one, the term “diet” often has a temporary undertone, so we’re only focused on eating a certain way – and generally a way we aren’t so enthusiastic about – for a designated period of time.
Here at Happy Body Formula, we don’t do diets. We also focus on sustainable change.
Our live program begins in January, so you can join in with a group of people ready to tackle a resolution that actually sticks, with the intrinsic support of your coach and your community. Knowledge is power, and that’s what we arm you with!
Changing your diet isn’t about following the rules, and it certainly isn’t all about weight loss (although it is a nice side effect for many). Focusing on the lifestyle changes that accompany diet including weekly meal preparation, learning to read labels, and discovering the foods your body reacts to well are tools you can feasibly use forever – not just until you lose those 20 kilos.
It’s all about mindset
It’s less about what your resolution is, and more about how you approach it. Let’s say you’re trying to dismantle a bad habit. Let’s talk about biting your nails or smoking, as concrete examples.
Both of these habits are driven by specific triggers or precedents. Instead of deciding you’re just going to QUIT, think about what makes you want to do these things in the first place.
This is where your process-based goals tie into the outcome. The ideal outcome is to abstain from these habits entirely, but where is the problem derived from?
Many smokers or nail-biters find themselves relying on these vices during times of stress. We have mental cues that are so subconscious once we have an “outlet.” If you’re trying to quit, start with becoming aware of the lead-up; if you smoke after a meal, start replacing that with something healthy instead.
If you bite your nails when you’re driving in traffic, come up with a new (and safe) activity to keep your hands and/or mouth occupied.
Balancing the short-term and the long-term
It’s fantastic to think in the big picture! We can be proactive when we do this. We can also clearly envision our goals.
It’s inspiring and motivating to think of where you might be in three, six, or twelve months, and it can often drive our desire to be consistent with what we’re doing in the day-to-day to get there.
It’s important to remember that setting goals is a highly individual process, though. Think about some of the resolutions you’ve made in years past, and try to recall whether maybe the long-term outlook was too focused in the future.
Once again, getting to that six-month progress mark requires daily work, so you have to break that resolution into daily habits, weekly habits, monthly habits and so on.
Discipline vs. motivation
Simply put, the reason why new year’s resolutions end up left for dust is because we lose motivation. It’s a fleeting feeling when it comes down to it, and for us to expect it to last just because the calendar year has changed is naïve.
Meet discipline – motivation’s cousin. When we put the tools in place to practice discipline in our daily lives, we can continue moving forward even when we simply don’t feel like it.
Unfortunately, those days, weeks and months are inevitable. If you’re setting up for a successful resolution year, you have to make the processes that will ultimately lead you to your outcome non-negotiables. Eating healthy? Do the prep work. Trying to save money?
Refrain almost all impulse buys. Trying to get fit? Make your gym time “me time,” and don’t skip out unless you need a rest day. Discipline lasts while motivation will wax and wane.
What’s YOUR resolution for the new year? We want to hear it! In case you needed to hear it, the team at HBF believes in you!
We’ve all heard the term superfood,but have you heard about sirtfoods? They’re of the same family, essentially. Perhaps, sirtfoods could even be considered superfoods in their own right.
They do indeed serve similar underlying purposes in the body, and they offer up more benefits than the average food when it comes to the body’s inner workings.
Sirtfoods are all about sirtuins
The sirtfoods are good for keeping inflammation low, supporting the metabolism, weight loss, immunity and healthy aging. This is due to sirtuins, a type of proteins in the body, which act as protectors for our cells. Sirtfoods are simply foods that activate these sirtuins.
What is the Sirtfood Diet?
The miracle claim is that you’ll lose 7 pounds in 7 days if you follow the sirtfood diet closely. Don’t worry, though – we’re not big fans of fad diets with drastic promises.
The foundation is interesting, and the underlying nutritional mission is something we personally think is rather sustainable, so hear us out! If we don’t have your attention yet, there will be chocolate and there will be wine.
Sounds too good to be true – right?
The first week has a pretty specific eating plan you need to stick to. Remember that promise? Well, it comes with a little effort on your part.
Initially, it sounds a bit restrictive and ‘cleanse-like,’ but it gets better. You’ll want to aim for around 1,000 calories everyday including three glasses of green juice and one meal abundant in sirtfoods each day.
The second week, you’ll up your calorie intake to 1,500 calories per day which includes two green juices and two meals rich with sirtfoods.
After that, there’s no real rhyme or reason to your sirtfood diet which is why we like it so much! The idea is simply to include as many sirtfoods in your diet as possible to activate the sirtuins, which will keep our cells vibrant and healthy, warding off inflammation, illness and unwanted weight.
Overall, we believe it’s a great approach to including more vitamin and mineral-rich whole foods in the diet with an emphasis on greens.
The long-term agenda generally includes three sirtfood-rich meals per day along with one green juice. Over the course of the following weeks post-introduction, you should expect to see steady weight loss at a healthy rate.
Why we like in the Sirtfood Diet
Considering the calorie restrictions, you might be wondering why we’re placing our stock in the Sirtfood Diet. We believe it steps outside of the fad diet mentality despite the ‘rapid weight loss’ and loose rules, though.
For one, the introduction comes in stages, so the 1,000 calorie days don’t last very long. If you’ve ever tried that diet out, you probably know that it only leads to hunger… and hanger!
The Sirtfood Diet includes many of the same foods we use in our 9-week Happy Body Formula menu. While we do eliminate wine and chocolate during our Reset phase, we do reintroduce them, as we believe these foods have antioxidant properties and the ability to restore balance in the diet.
Who doesn’t enjoy the finer things in life? We love that the sirtfood diet allows for indulgence with some nice health benefits to boot.
Sirtfoods serve a greater purpose in the body, and beyond weight loss, this ‘diet’ is truly used to keep the immune system strong and healthy in the long run. With that said, it offers up quite a sustainable platform for lifelong health.
The immune system is closely tied to our overall wellbeing, so providing the body with the tools our cells need to stay strong and reduce inflammation caused by illness is important.
All in all, the Sirtfood Diet focuses on putting the foods most abundant with vitamins and minerals into your daily diet multiple times per day, maximizing nutrition at every meal. It’s a simple concept with an easy-to-use formula and clear benefits.
Interested in incorporating more sirtfoods in your diet? Try the 9-week Happy Body Formula which includes sirtdiet-friendly recipes for weight loss, immunity and overall health.
Breakfast bowls aren’t just limited to oatmeal! While some of us prefer to start the day off sweet, we prefer to kick off the morning with something piping hot, full of flavor, and full of veggies.
A bowl is the perfect canvas to make some magic happen. It’s a simple formula to whip up a recipe that combines healthy fats, protein, green veggies and maybe a little starch.
After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and you really want to place some emphasis satiation and nutrients.
These breakfast bowls are nourishing, inventive and unique, so you won’t get bored combining the same foods over and over. Plus, it’s not just eggs you’ll see here!
Finally, it’s so easy to prep some of these ingredients ahead of time and just put an egg on it (and/or avocado slices) when the time comes. Make your morning simple – and tasty – again!
Plantain hash is the new potato hash – trust us! This bowl incorporates freshly fried plantain chips for a slightly sweet crunch. The base is made of eggs for plenty of protein, plus you’ll love the avocado chimichurri sauce combined with pico de gallo as the cherry on top.
We’re all about tacos for breakfast, or any meal when it comes down to it. This bowl is simple and easy with an emphasis on leftovers, so whip up some roasted sweet potato rounds for your ‘nachos’ and some taco meat early in the week to make brekky an effortless yet delicious affair.
If you’re going for healthy, we can’t see a better way to pack in some nutrients before noon than with sardines! The quinoa base offers up extra protein on top of the seafood, and these little sardines are packed with vitamin D and omega-3s.
There are just five ingredients making up this balanced meal, it’s budget-friendly and the prep is minimal. Get the recipe from Natural Fit Foodie.
4. Smoked salmon breakfast bowls
Sticking with the seafood theme, is there anyone who doesn’t love some smoked salmon in the morning? Forgo the bagel in favor of healthy, turmeric-spiced cauliflower rice, and toss in an egg and some fermented veggies or whatever you’ve got lying around in the fridge!
Chorizo is a spicy way to begin the day, and it’s truly a breakfast staple. Standing alongside potatoes in this hearty bowl, you’ll definitely have enough food to tide you over for those extra hungry mornings.
This recipe was written to be doubled or tripled, so get your meal prep ON. The best part is arguably the avocado tomatillo drizzle! Get the recipe from Fed and Fit.
6. Breakfast burrito bowl with spiced butternut squash
In the same way that we highly encourage tacos for breakfast, we’re also a fan of the burrito bowl. Like, big time! This recipe uses a base of butternut squash in place of your typical hash.
If you’ve got a craving for Mexican food straight out of bed, this is the breakfast bowl for you. Get the recipe from Skinny Taste.
7. Five-ingredient egg-free shakshuka bowls
While most of our bowls include eggs, this egg-free dish is a good alternative if you’re just over it, or if you’ve run out of eggs. This bowl is so quick to put together with a pre-made, tomato-based Shakshuka sauce, and it’s only five ingredients!
Toss some kale in there to up the nutrients. Oh, and if you REALLY want to put an egg on it, we don’t mind. Get the recipe from Paleomg.
8. Savoury teff porridge breakfast bowl
Teff is a nutritious gluten-free grain, boasting calcium, magnesium and selenium to name a few, so we can get on board with having a bit for brekky. Cooking it with a bit of white miso ups the nutrient game and the taste.
The rest of the bowl is loaded with veggies of which shiitake and asparagus are highly recommended. Get the recipe from Will Frolic For Food.
9. Miso veggie breakfast bowl
We love fermented soy like miso for its good bacteria, enzymes and B-vitamins in particular. Even in small quantities, it adds both flavor and massive nutrition to a breakfast bowl with a generous base of veggies from beets to crunchy crucifers.
Top it with an egg and avocado to get the full effect, and start your day with a whole lot of umami. Get the recipe from Reclaiming Provincial.
10. AIP breakfast bowl
AIP-friendly breakfast bowls can be hard to come by as many contain eggs, grains or both, but this one? Nope – it does it up right, and anyone could fall in love with this cosy mashup of deliciousness.
The base is made of cauliflower and broccoli, and the protein and healthy fats come in on top with some shrimp and bacon. Ready to redefine breakfast? Get the recipe from The Castaway Kitchen.
11. Grain-free savoury porridge
Porridge often contains two things: grains and sweet flavors. This breakfast bowl is breaking boundaries as it is both grain-free and savory, making it an interesting switch from your usual morning meal.
The cauliflower base is packed with protein from grass-fed collagen and healthy fats from coconut milk, plus it’s topped with a thick spread of pesto and hazelnuts to serve. Get the recipe from Empowered Sustenance.
12. Turkish-style spicy, savoury breakfast bowls
These Turkish-style bowls have a hearty base of Italian sausage, and they’re mixed up with dried apricots and green chiles for a seriously unique flavor complex reminiscent of classic Turkish cuisine.
Top these guys off with a little yoghurt sauce or coconut yoghurt if you don’t do dairy. Boom – you’re golden! Get the recipe from Primal Palate.
What recipes are you looking forward to trying? Have your own signature breakfast bowl? Share with us below!
If cookies were a food group, we’d likely encourage eating them at least once per day… you know, for your mental health. While they’re not generally thought of as healthy fare, we’re changing the game here.
Protein bars are fine and all, but the flavor and ingredients can make it feel like less of a treat. Considering protein is an important macronutrient, and we highly encourage getting enough of it at every meal, these sweet treats will fit the bill for daily indulgence you can feel good about.
No boxed dough here – just real food ingredients.
These healthy, high-protein cookie recipes are perfect for snacking at home or on the go. You can pack ’em up in the kids’ lunch boxes and boast about your grain-free baking skills, or break out a batch to take to your next potluck.
No bake cookie dough protein balls
Okay, so maybe they’re not cookies, but we all know the best part about cookies isn’t the final product – it’s sneaking tastes of that dough! There’s no raw egg risk with these guys, and they weren’t meant to be baked in the first place.
Almond butter and your protein powder of choice make these the perfect snack to hit the gym with, or just nosh on when the sweet tooth hits hard. Get the recipe from Well Plated.
Paleo protein brookies
The ‘brookie’ is a match made in heaven, essentially combining what is good about chocolate chip cookies and brownies, and pairing them together. This version is both paleo-friendly and protein-packed, so they’re not your average brookie.
This dough also uses a luscious blend of creamy almond butter and protein powder. Get the recipe from Fit Foodie Finds.
Maple pecan protein cookies
A nutty base is the perfect vessel for pecans in this gorgeous cookie recipe. Maple syrup pairs perfectly with the flavors in these guys, and the ingredient list is super simple.
At first glance, you think you’ll want to eat half the batch in a sitting, but the protein gives these bites plenty of sustenance to actually keep you fueled and full. Get the recipe from Naked Cuisine.
Double chocolate power cookies
Each serving of these cookies has 18 grams of protein, hence their ‘power cookie’ title. There is real power hiding out in these with plenty of grass-fed collagen which is fantastic for the skin and the gut.
Bonus: double the chocolate, double the fun. Get the recipe from Living Loving Paleo.
4-ingredient chewy cinnamon protein cookies
These cookies are so easy to make, they’re grain-free, paleo-friendly, and vegan so they make an easy go-to recipe for just about anyone who wants to indulge wisely.
They are extra chewy and delicious, and they taste like oatmeal raisin cookies – even without the oats or raisins. Get the recipe from Purely Twins.
Avocado protein chocolate cookies
Avocados? Yes, please. These fudgy bites pack in real food power with a little green from the avocado plus healthy fats and antioxidant powerhouse, goji berry.
They also feature a base of quinoa flour which is inherently gluten-free (it’s a seed – not a grain!) and protein powder so they’re extra satiating. Get the recipe from Cookies to Kale.
Chickpea flour chocolate chip cookies
Chickpea flour is yet another versatile and gluten-free and grain-free baking tool we love, because it is naturally packed with protein and super nutritious!
These chocolate chip cookies are also quite low in sugar which means they are totally HBF-approved. Get the recipe from Oatmeal With a Fork.
No-bake chocolate cherry protein cookies
This is a duo we love – chocolates and cherries – and they make a rather tasty snack. Plus, they require zero baking and the ingredients are versatile; you could easily use cranberries or dried blueberries in these cookies instead.
The chocolate drizzle kind of takes these to the next level, so don’t skip the final step. Get the recipe from Fit Mitten Kitchen.
Chocolate protein cookies
Six ingredients make up these glorious peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies. These are full of fibre-rich flaxseed and omega-3s from chia seeds, plus a little nutrient boost from bananas which also lend themselves well as a natural sweetener.
If you’re in the market for something festive during the holiday season, or you just like to get your cranberry fix year-round, these are the treat for you.
They’re packed with chocolate protein powder and oats for a blend of complex carbs, fibre and protein to keep you full. Nobody will tell if you pop a few for breakfast. Get the recipe from Hummusapien.
Protein powders we love
Many of the recipes in this roundup contain protein powder. What’s the best choice? While we always recommend eating real food above all, protein powder can be a great supplement to use, and it works fabulously for baking healthy, gluten-free treats.
There are a few reliable options in terms of ingredients. Here are some of our favorite paleo protein powders.
PlantFusion is a fantastic plant-based option using pea protein and sprouted quinoa and amaranth. These are easy to digest when they’re properly prepared, and their products are great because they don’t use soy or sugar.
Naked Whey is made with grass-fed whey protein, and it only contains one ingredient so it’s versatile. You can add vanilla essence or cacao powder to switch up flavors whilst baking, and the sweetener levels will be 100% up to you as it contains none at all.
Nutiva Hemp Protein is a good source of plant protein – rich in omega-3s and fibre – that mostly anyone can tolerate since some can’t do grains, dairy, or peas.
Paleo Protein Egg White Powder is a good choice for those who want a simple, one-ingredient powder from a real food source.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides provide a fantastic source of sustainably raised animal protein without any flavours or sweeteners. Collagen and gelatine have loads of health benefits, so it’s a welcome addition to any diet.
What batch of cookies will you be making for a protein-rich snack this week? Tell us your favourites, and share these recipes with your foodie friends!
If you’re looking for a little something to stand tall front and center in your Christmas dessert spread, look no further. This healthy, grain-free, naturally sweetened sticky date pudding is dressed to impress… and don’t forget the tinsel!
Sticky date pudding will be a hit at the holiday table this year. It makes a lovely dessert year-round, but its warming qualities are especially welcome in the winter months during a festive celebration.
It’s a fantastic alternative to a boxed fruitcake, and this recipe boasts loads of whole food ingredients including a hidden veggie – sweet potato!
150 g baked sweet potato puree (to make sweet potato puree; place a whole sweet potato in a moderate oven for 60 minutes, or until soft and mushy inside. Peel the sweet potato and use the mushy insides)
1½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup maple syrup/rice malt syrup
9 eggs
¾ cup coconut flour
¾ tsp mixed spice
⅓ tsp cloves
4½ tsp baking powder
Sauce
1½ cups coconut cream (dairy cream can be used)
(or place 1-2 400ml opened cans of coconut milk in the fridge overnight and spoon out thickened cream)
3 tbsp maple syrup/rice malt syrup
3 tbsp golden syrup (molasses, honey or more maple syrup can be substituted)
Instructions
Grease a 2-litre pudding basin. Place a small piece of greased baking paper on the bottom of the basin.
Place the chopped dates and water in a small saucepan over medium/high heat. Bring the mixture to the boil.
Immediately remove from the heat and add the bicarb soda. Allow the mixture to cool for minutes then add the ginger and stir to combine.
In the clean bowl of a kitchen stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whisk the egg whites on medium until soft peaks form. Add the maple syrup and whisk until combined. Add the purred/mashed sweet potato, milk and egg yolks. Beat until combined.
In a separate bowl, sift the dry ingredients together.
Add the date mixture and the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not over mix.
Pour the mixture into the pudding basin and place a greased piece of baking paper over the opening. Place the lid on.
Place a small plate/trivet on the bottom of a large saucepan and place the pudding on top. Fill the saucepan with water to ¾ the height of the pudding basin. Bring the water out the boil then simmer over a medium heat for 5 hours. Check the height of the water regularly and add boiling water when required to keep the water level constant.
After 5 hours check that the pudding has been cooked through. If not return the pudding basin to the boiling water and cook for a further 30 minutes.
Allow the pudding to sit for 10 minutes then remove from the tin. Immediately poke lots of holes over the top and sides of the pudding and evenly pour ½ cup of sauce over the top. Keep the rest of the sauce for serving. Let the cake sit for minutes. Serve the cake with the extra sauce and whipped cream.
Sauce
Make the sauce just before the cake is cooked.
Place the coconut cream and both sweeteners in a small saucepan. Stir over a medium/high heat until boiling.
Reduce the heat to medium/low for 1-2 minutes then remove from the heat. Use immediately.
We all want to be that person who boasts about being done with the holiday shopping at Thanksgiving dinner, but the reality of it? Well, we’ve all got a little last-minute shopping to do.
Whether it’s deciding on that tough-to-buy-for person or plain ol’ procrastination, there are endless excuses. Let’s end them… now!
If you want to give someone the gift that keeps on giving, you can take a hint from us this year. Our healthy gift guide ensures that your gift will go to good use and contribute to someone’s wellness journey, no matter where they are on it.
Perhaps it’s a techy new gadget for the reluctant older relative or parent in your life, or maybe it’s outfitting someone’s kitchen from “dorm room style” to “official adult.”
These present ideas are perfect for foodies, fitness freaks, and wellness warriors alike. No matter who you’re buying for, there’s a gift on this list for anyone who wants to eat, move, and live better.
Help your loved ones set a New Year’s Resolution and stick to it!
For the foodies
These gifts are a nice way to treat your friends who are always inviting you over for dinners and potlucks, a younger friend who might just be moving into his or her first “adult” kitchen, or someone who needs more motivation to cook from scratch.
The Instant Pot
My Instant Pot came in the form of a Christmas gift one year, and it was such a fun gift to open! It brings the recipient back to childhood; you forget about everything else all of a sudden because you just want to play with it!
All winter, my stove top and oven hardly got any use as I worked hard to adapt any and every recipe to an Instant Pot recipe. This is the quintessential kitchen appliance, and I’m not exaggerating when I say that everyone needs one. There is no better way to express your love than with this bad boy.
We love our zoodles around here. If you’re looking for foodie-friendly gifts to hand out, you might want to turn it up a notch with this tool. You can set it to “noodle-fy” in thin, thick, or ribbon slices.
The real bonus? You can use this with anything from winter squash to sweet potatoes and those odd hard veggies like celeriac to create delicious and nutritious meals. If you know someone who struggles to eat their veggies, this could change the game.
You may wonder why someone might use an immersion blender when their kitchen is already stocked. You could be working with your blender and your food processor without a hitch!
This tiny-but-mighty tool makes working with certain recipes a whole lot easier, though. Homemade mayo? You’ll never have a failed batch again. It also makes blending hot food like soups safer, simpler and easier to clean up.
This gift will come in handy for the novice chef who wants to get a little more experimental.
Want to win some props for the grossest Christmas gift? Just send a SCOBY in the mail! If you know someone who’s dishing out big money for the good stuff at Whole Foods, this gift is going to save them tons of cash over time.
If you’re brewing your own, you could lend off some of your growing SCOBY, or you could take the easy way out with this starter kit. If you really want to do it up with these healthy gifts, you could throw in a few jars to brew, bottles to store and organic tea, of course.
This blender comes at a humble price so you can actually afford to give it as a gift! A good blender is essential for anyone who loves their soups or smoothies, and the NutriBullet possesses enough power to do it all.
I used mine for seven years before it finally let up, so I can personally attest to how long-lasting this appliance is – and I used it just about daily! A good gift that blends doesn’t have to come with a Vitamix price tag.
We all know someone we might describe as a “gym rat.” Maybe you know a friend who is penciling in some marathon training for the upcoming year, or an outdoorsy weekend warrior who you can trust to find high up in the mountains.
In any case, we have some gifts for your loved ones who are always on the go… and we mean on foot!
A wearable fitness tracker
The FitBit isn’t only good for someone who’s already counting; it’s great for someone who wants some accountability when it comes to squeezing in a bit more exercise throughout the day.
This is a gift for the resolution-er or the data-cruncher who wants to get more active, but doesn’t know where to start. This model tracks steps, flights of stairs climbed, workouts, heart rate, calories burned, AND sleep.
It’s an all-inclusive way to keep up on the quality of movement you rest and get on a daily basis with minimal effort on your part.
Not only will the lucky recipient of this gift be thanking you – so will their sore muscles! If your workout buddy doesn’t already have a foam roller, consider this on par with scheduling them a full-body massage.
Static stretching can exacerbate athletic injuries or simply be ineffective, while foam rolling works out all the kinks in a gentle way. Give the gift that keeps on giving – a speedy recovery!
If this service is available in your city, pick up a membership for you and a friend. ClassPass is one of the most versatile health-centric gifts since it offers you access to fitness classes of all types.
If you know someone with commitment problems who ends up skipping the gym every time they fork over their cash, give them the gift of choice. From yoga and pilates, to circuit-training and kickboxing, you can schedule the classes you want whenever is convenient for you. Bonus: it’s unlimited!
Real food is the way to anyone’s heart. These stocking stuffers make for some tasty post-workout recovery fuel that can easily be tucked away in the gym bag. Unlike most protein bars, the ingredients are simple and meaty.
These are the perfect nutrient-dense, quick snack to have handy, so look no further if you’re wrapping up munchies for the holidays. The variety pack comes with nine flavors!
No more excuses! Gift this to a friend who wants to get stronger, but tends to skip out on the gym during the busy work week. Hanging this up in the kitchen doorway is an easy way to work on your pull-up skills and overall strength with just a twinge of effort every time you hit the fridge.
Bonus points: the houseguests will assume you can bust a few out, even if you’re still working on getting there in the first place.
You know your friend who’s always sending you off with a “Namaste,” or your yoga teacher in training pal who’s inviting you to the full moon ceremonies? These gifts will speak to them.
Even if they’re not already in their zen, these gifts could help them find it.
Yoga mat, block and strap
Everyone must start somewhere, and gifts under the tree are a good place to begin, especially when it’s this handy-dandy yoga kit. It comes with a mat, strap, block, and towels.
Getting into a new fitness routine is hard, but yoga has something for everyone. Slow-paced restorative yoga can help with gentle mobility while Bikram will help you sweat it out.
It’s better to go in prepared, so gift this to your aspiring yogi friend.
Yet another one of those healthy gifts in line with a common new year’s resolution: kicking caffeine to the curb. While some people do just fine with a jolt in the A.M., lessening caffeine intake can be really beneficial for healing or just tapping into those natural energy stores.
Teeccino blends take on the flavor and aroma of coffee without any caffeine at all. This is the perfect present for someone who wants to give up their morning cuppa for a healthier lifestyle and better sleep at night.
There’s nothing like a little sunshine in the dead of winter, even if it’s artificial. Vitamin D deficiency is incredibly common all year round, but the brunt of it usually take place in the winter.
This gift is a good idea if you want to spread light this holiday season – and don’t we all? The light box mimics the effects of UV rays, and it can really help start the day right with more energy and a happier mood while also regulating your natural circadian rhythm.
Activated charcoal may look a little weird and sound a little weird, but its multiple purposes make this one of the best gifts to give to the DIY beauty guru or your friend who puts some effort into self-care.
Don’t worry; it’s not the same as the charcoal you use on the grill. It’s a natural detoxifier, and it can be used for everything from purifying water to toothpaste to face masks.
You can choose to gift a bag of the pure stuff, or get to packaging some creations of your own to stuff the stockings with.
A nice complimentary gift to give in addition to the charcoal would be essential oils. This variety pack has everything you need to get started. You can diffuse them in place of burning candles, scent your own homemade beauty products, and even use them to flavor recipes.
Their benefits are endless, and each oil has its own specific properties including many healing benefits.
The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year, and I like to attribute that to two things: presents and cookies. Okay, I suppose now that I no longer believe in Santa, spending time with loved ones and giving gifts rather than receiving them take precedence.
Regardless, cookies and presents are a nice touch – there’s simply no denying it. We all have that one family member whose baking is superior to all and whose desserts seem irresistible.
Let me remind you that you’ve got the power!
Whether you’re implementing that 80/20 mentality during the holiday festivities this year, or you’re keeping it clean, these gluten-free paleo Christmas cookies will keep you on track and you won’t be missing out on much.
These healthy recipes turn all your holly jolly favorites into sweet treats you can feel good about eating one of each.
When I think of Christmas cookies, I think of buckeye truffles. Specifically, I think of hoarding plenty for myself to snack on throughout the festivities as they always run out far too quickly.
I also think of the absurd amount of sugar I end up consuming with these innocent-looking treats alone. These treats packs in the healthy fats with coconut butter and almond butter with a dark chocolate shell.
If you’re a fan preserving the harvest, you’ve probably got a whole lot of jam jarred up in the pantry. You might even be putting a bow on all those perfectly labelled jars and serving ’em up as DIY Christmas gifts.
Let your homemaking abilities shine in your Christmas cookies with this almond thumbprint recipe. You can use the cherry jam recipe below or sub it out for your other favorite variety.
What?! These paleo Christmas cookies hit the spot. They’re cute, sorta fancy, and they encompass all of the things that make a piping hot mug of hot chocolate good. You don’t even need marshmallows, and you won’t be missing out on them.
The whipped cream frosting will be the “cherry on top” these fluffy, fudgy pillows of deliciousness. These will be everyone’s new favorite holiday party favor.
We couldn’t leave a little gingersnap recipe out of the paleo Christmas cookies list. Molasses and ginger come together for that classic flavour without all of the refined sugar and wheat this recipe generally calls for.
You can shape these like normal cookies or turn them into big and chewy gingerbread men – it’s up to you. Just make sure to save a few for Santa, I hear these are his favorite.
Nothing says Christmas quite like peppermints. How about skipping candy canes in favor of these good-for-you macaroons? They’re grain-free and vegan-friendly, so even the most sensitive Santa Claus will be pleased to find a plate of these.
The holiday dinner always includes coffee afterwards. Whether or not you add a little booze to your mug is up to you, but you should definitely include some paleo Christmas cookies in your post-feast cuppa.
These chocolate-covered biscotti will make the perfect little dipper for your dark roast, or you can bag them up for your guests to take home with you.
These cookies are almost a variation of fruit cake. Almost. I grew up in an Italian family, so these chewy delights were a mainstay on the cookie tray, but never seemed to contain quite enough filling.
This recipe doesn’t skimp on the good stuff though – a variety of dried fruits and orange jam give this its texture and taste. Get the recipe from The Spunky Coconut.
Grain-free chocolate pizzelles
Ah, yet another Italian cookie tray staple – the pizzelle. If you don’t have a press to make these, you can bet your Italian grandmother does. It’s probably as old as she is, but still works like a charm.
Borrow it for your baking extravaganza to make these almond flour pizzelles. If biscotties aren’t your jam, these cookies also pair exceptionally well with java. Get the recipe from A Clean Bake.
German marzipan Christmas cookies
One of the simpler paleo Christmas cookies are these German-inspired bites using marzipan, a sweet almond paste that couldn’t be easier to make. These are dense, moist, and chewy.
The flavor is best for the nut-lovers at the party. This batch is fun because of how many variations of almond you use, so if the pantry is stocked, consider them made.
These cookies have three distinct parts to them that make them one of the best paleo Christmas cookies – the subtle peppermint flavor, the moist and chewy goodness reminiscent of cookie dough, and the sugary coating.
This variation opts for a coconut sugar dusting instead of powdered sugar, but you can get a similar texture if you grind your sugar down into finer granules and sift it. The more you know.
These little gems aren’t just paleo Christmas cookies – Snickerdoodles are a hit year-round. No holiday cookie tray is complete without these gems though, and a little pumpkin spice will be welcomed in a crowd of chocolate chips and sprinkles.
My personal recommendation? More cinnamon. Get the recipe from Wholesomelicious.
Paleo macadamia chocolate cookies
Macadamia nuts are amongst the healthiest for you, so why not toss a few in the cookie batter and call it a day? Their creamy texture is amazing in baked goods, and your guests will love these biscotti-like treats.
Add some white chocolate chips if you’re feeling a little crazy (or want to add a touch more sweetness). Get the recipe from Eat Drink Paleo.
The BEST chocolate chip cookies (paleo, vegan)
The best of the best? You better believe it. No dairy or grains to be found in these guys, but they are as dippable as that store bought dough you’re snagging in a pinch and they’re rather simple to make anyways.
Make it happen! You can get the recipe for these guys at Downshiftology.
Here’s to a happy, healthy holiday full of cookies and joy. Don’t forget to save some for Santa.
