7 Surprising Foods That Help Reduce Stress: Add These to Your Diet Now!

7 Surprising Foods That Help Reduce Stress: Add These to Your Diet Now!

As a health coach who’s worked with busy professionals, I’ve seen firsthand how stress sneaks its way into our lives and takes a toll on both the mind and body. But what if I told you that there are some simple, delicious foods you can add to your diet that can help combat stress? And no, I’m not talking about reaching for that chocolate bar or the sugary snack you keep stashed in your desk drawer (though we will talk about dark chocolate later, so stay with me!).

There’s a strong connection between what we eat and how we feel. In this article, I’ll introduce you to some surprising foods that can naturally help reduce stress, along with tips on how to incorporate them into your busy life.

The Gut-Brain Connection: Why Nutrition Matters for Stress Relief

Before diving into the foods themselves, it’s important to understand the link between your gut and your brain. Ever had butterflies in your stomach before a big presentation? That’s the gut-brain connection in action. Your digestive system and brain are constantly communicating, and they play a huge role in how we manage stress.

Your gut produces 90% of your body’s serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. If your gut is out of balance, it can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression. The right foods can help support a healthy gut, which in turn helps reduce stress.

I’ve seen clients who struggle with chronic stress transform their lives just by paying attention to what they’re eating. While therapy, mindfulness, and exercise are all key parts of managing stress, nutrition is often the unsung hero in the process.

7 Surprising Foods That Help Reduce Stress

1. Dark Chocolate

Let’s start with one of my favorites—dark chocolate. And no, I’m not giving you an excuse to dive headfirst into a bar of milk chocolate. The key here is dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa content).

Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, which is a mineral known to help relax muscles and calm the nervous system. Magnesium is a natural stress-reliever that can help lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. Plus, dark chocolate stimulates the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone.

How to Add It:

Keep a small square of dark chocolate in your desk for an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s a treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while also reducing stress. I love pairing it with a handful of almonds for an added magnesium boost.


2. Avocados

Avocados are not just for toast! These creamy fruits are packed with B vitamins, which are crucial for brain health and managing stress. They’re also high in healthy fats and potassium, both of which help regulate blood pressure. When your blood pressure is stable, your body is less likely to release stress hormones.

Personally, I’ve noticed that incorporating half an avocado into my lunch—whether on toast, in a salad, or even in a smoothie—leaves me feeling more satisfied and less stressed throughout the afternoon. It’s one of those small but powerful changes.

How to Add It:

Smash some avocado onto whole-grain toast with a sprinkle of chili flakes and a squeeze of lime for a quick, nutrient-packed snack. You can also blend it into your morning smoothie for added creaminess.

Personal Tip: I often squeeze lemon juice over my avacodo slices to keep them fresh. 


3. Blueberries

Blueberries are tiny, but they pack a powerful punch when it comes to stress relief. These little berries are full of antioxidants, specifically vitamin C, which helps your body repair and protect itself during stressful situations. Vitamin C lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, and helps reduce the physical symptoms of stress, like fatigue and tension.

One of my clients, a corporate executive, told me that she kept a small container of blueberries in her bag for a quick snack during meetings. It’s a healthy way to curb hunger and stress at the same time.

How to Add It:

Top your morning yogurt or oatmeal with a handful of blueberries for a stress-fighting breakfast. Or, keep a small container in your bag for a quick, healthy snack on the go.


4. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea might not be a food, but its stress-relieving benefits are too good not to include. Chamomile has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress. It contains antioxidants that bind to certain receptors in your brain, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

This is one of my personal go-to remedies when I’m feeling overwhelmed. After a long day, a warm cup of chamomile tea helps me unwind and signals to my body that it’s time to relax.

How to Add It:

Make a ritual of sipping chamomile tea in the evening before bed. Add a teaspoon of honey or a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor and calming effects.


5. Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard)

You’ve heard it a thousand times—eat your greens! But did you know leafy greens are great for stress reduction? Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are all high in magnesium, which, as we’ve discussed, plays a huge role in regulating stress.

Low magnesium levels have been linked to increased anxiety and stress, so getting enough through your diet is key. I had a client who struggled with muscle tension and constant headaches due to stress. After increasing her intake of leafy greens, she saw a dramatic reduction in both.

How to Add It:

Throw a handful of spinach into your morning smoothie, add kale to soups, or sauté Swiss chard with garlic and olive oil as a side dish. If you’re short on time, pre-wash your greens and keep them ready in the fridge for quick use.


6. Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines)

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and help regulate cortisol levels. Omega-3s are essential for brain health and have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety.

I often recommend fatty fish to my clients who are looking for a way to boost their mood and lower stress levels. It’s a simple addition to their diet that provides long-term benefits.

How to Add It:

Aim to include fatty fish in your meals at least twice a week. Try a grilled salmon fillet for dinner, or add smoked salmon to your lunchtime salad.


7. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that’s been praised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown to boost serotonin and dopamine levels—both of which play a role in regulating mood and stress.

I’ve found turmeric to be a fantastic addition to my diet. I love making a “golden milk” latte with turmeric, almond milk, and a dash of honey when I need a calming, anti-inflammatory boost.

How to Add It:

Stir turmeric into soups, stews, or curries, or try a turmeric latte in the evening to unwind. You can also sprinkle it on roasted vegetables for an earthy, stress-fighting touch.

How to Incorporate These Stress-Reducing Foods Into Your Busy Life

Now that you know the foods that can help reduce stress, let’s talk about how to easily incorporate them into your busy lifestyle. You don’t need to overhaul your entire diet overnight—small, consistent changes will lead to lasting results.

Meal Planning Tips for Stress Relief

One of the biggest challenges I see with my clients is time. Between work, family, and other commitments, finding the time to prepare healthy meals can feel impossible. That’s where meal planning comes in.

Take a little time each week to plan out your meals. Focus on incorporating some of the stress-reducing foods we’ve talked about. For example:

  • Breakfast: Start your day with oatmeal topped with blueberries and a few squares of dark chocolate for a healthy, stress-fighting breakfast.
  • Lunch: Throw together a salad with leafy greens, avocado, and smoked salmon.
  • Dinner: Cook a simple, baked salmon with a side of sautéed spinach.

Healthy Snacks for When You’re On the Go

Busy professionals often fall into the trap of reaching for unhealthy snacks in moments of stress. But with a little preparation, you can set yourself up for success with stress-busting snacks:

  • A small container of blueberries or a banana
  • Dark chocolate paired with nuts
  • Avocado toast or guacamole with veggies

Relaxing Tea Breaks

Incorporating a tea break into your day can serve as a mini meditation. Taking a moment to sip on chamomile tea gives your body the chance to reset. I encourage clients to make this part of their evening routine, signaling to their brain that it’s time to relax and prepare for restful sleep.

Additional Tips for Managing Stress Through Nutrition

While adding these stress-reducing foods is a great start, there are a few other key nutrition tips to keep in mind when managing stress.

1. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen stress and anxiety. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day. I often recommend starting the morning with a glass of water before your first cup of coffee to kickstart hydration.

2. Limit Caffeine and Sugar

While that extra cup of coffee might feel like it’s helping you power through a busy day, too much caffeine can increase anxiety and stress. Try swapping out one of your daily coffees for herbal tea, and keep an eye on your sugar intake as well—spikes and crashes in blood sugar can lead to mood swings and increased stress.

3. Consistency is Key

Eating stress-relieving foods consistently is more effective than relying on them only during stressful moments. Make these foods a regular part of your diet to keep your stress levels in check.

Conclusion

Stress may be inevitable, but you have more control over it than you think. By incorporating foods like dark chocolate, avocados, leafy greens, and fatty fish into your diet, you can support your body in managing stress naturally. The small, simple changes you make today can have a big impact on how you feel tomorrow.

So, why not start by adding one or two of these stress-fighting foods into your meals this week? Whether it’s enjoying a square of dark chocolate after lunch or making a turmeric latte in the evening, your body and mind will thank you.

Remember, managing stress doesn’t just happen in your head—what you eat plays a crucial role in how you feel. Take control of your nutrition, and you’ll find that balance becomes a little easier to achieve, even on the most stressful days.

Healthy Breakfast Recipe: Pumpkin Pancakes with Dates

Healthy Breakfast Recipe: Pumpkin Pancakes with Dates

 

 

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JUMP TO RECIPE

Looking for a delicious and healthy way to start your day? Look no further than these pumpkin pancakes! Made with real pumpkin puree and sweetened with dates instead of sugar, these pancakes are the perfect fall breakfast.

Servings:

12 large pancakes

Ready In:

20 minutes

Calories:

130 per pancake

Good For:

breakfast, dessert

Why Use Dates Instead Of Sugar?

Not only are dates a natural sweetener, but they’re also packed with nutrients like fiber, potassium, and magnesium. This means that they can help regulate blood sugar levels, aid in digestion, and support healthy muscle and nerve function. Plus, they add a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Dates blended to make a syrup
cooked dates in a blender

Nutrition

  • Calories: 130 Calories
  • Protein: 3.9g
  • Total Fat: 3.6g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.9g
  • Carbs: 21.1g
  • Fiber: 1.3g
  • Sugar: 3g

Amounts per serving:1 Pancake

  • Protein 3.9g 13.5% 13.5%
  • Carbohydrates 21.1g 74% 74%
  • of Which Sugar is 3g 10% 10%
  • Fiber 1.3g 4% 4%
  • Fat 3.6g 13% 13%

Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe

A healthy and flavorful twist on traditional pumpkin pancakes by using dates instead of sugar as a natural sweetener. With the addition of pumpkin puree and warm spices, these pancakes are a delicious and nutritious fall breakfast option that can be topped with your favorite toppings.
Prep Time10 hours
Cook Time10 hours
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Diet: Diabetic, Low Fat, Vegetarian
Keyword: dates, healthy, pancakes, pumpkin, sugar free
Servings: 12
Calories: 50kcal
Cost: $4

Equipment

  • 1 bowl
  • 1 measuring cup
  • 1 cooking pan
  • 1 Spatula

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups milk
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree preferable fresh cooked pumpkin
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp vinegar
  • 3 dates pips removed and softened in warm water
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp allspice
  • 1 tsp ginger
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, all the spices, and salt.
  • either blend the dates with a little water until a smooth paste or syrup is formed or chop them up finely
  • In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix in the pumpkin puree, date paste and milk.
  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter or oil.
  • Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop the batter onto the skillet, spacing each pancake about 2 inches apart.
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Serve hot with your favorite toppings: a healthy approach is a drizzle of real maple syrup, a splash of kefir or yogurt, some chopped nuts and seeds and fresh fruit.
pumpkin-pancakes-on-pan-flip-over
pumpkin-pancakes-batter

Tips For Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes:

  • The best pancakes are made when the batter is made the day before. Store the batter in the fridge and use up to three days later.
  • Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before putting them together. This will help keep you from overmixing the batter and making pancakes that are tough.
  • Use a nonstick skillet or griddle to make flipping the pancakes easier.
  • If you don’t have medjool dates, you can use another type of date or substitute with honey or maple syrup.
maple-syrup-from-canada
pumpkin pancakes

What To Eat With Pumpkin Pancakes

These pumpkin pancakes with dates are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that are easy to make and perfect for fall. Give them a try and see for yourself how sweet and satisfying they can be!

Try pair these pancakes with some fats and protein to prevent any sugar spikes in your body. some full cream yogurt, fruit, nuts and seeds are ideal.  

 

cauliflower breadsticks with avocado
nuts-seeds-and-goji-berries
Top 7 Healthy Sugar Substitutes for Delicious Baked Goods & More

Top 7 Healthy Sugar Substitutes for Delicious Baked Goods & More

 

 

 

Healthy sugar substitutes are gaining popularity as more people become aware of the negative effects of consuming too much refined sugar. Refined sugar can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. There are many healthy whole-food sugar substitutes that can sweeten your meals and snacks without harming your health. In this article, we’ll talk about 7 healthy sugar substitutes, such as bananas, applesauce, dates, honey, molasses, stevia, and maple syrup.

Bananas

Bananas are a versatile and delicious natural sweetener that can be used in a variety of ways. They can be mashed up and used in baked goods or sliced and added to yogurt or oatmeal. Bananas are also a great source of fiber and potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health.

mashed banana as healthy sugar substitutes

Applesauce

Applesauce is a fantastic ingredient to use in place of sugar in many recipes. It adds natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods and is great as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt. Applesauce is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a perfect option for those looking to manage their weight.

applesauce

Dates

Dates are a delicious fruit that sweeten smoothies, bake goods, and make up the bulk of energy balls. They’re also a fantastic source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, which reduces inflammation and supports digestive health.

Date syrup and spices

Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener, used for centuries for its health benefits. It’s an excellent substitute for sugar in tea, yogurt, and baked goods. Honey has antibacterial properties that can help soothe sore throats and coughs, making it a popular ingredient in natural remedies.

honey

Molasses

Molasses is a nutrient-dense byproduct of sugar cane or sugar beet processing. It’s a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Molasses has a distinct flavor and can be used in baking, marinades, and sauces.

black-molasses

Stevia. Plants as Healthy Sugar Substitutes

Stevia is a natural sweetener that comes from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It’s much sweeter than sugar and has zero calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to manage their weight. Stevia sweetens coffee, tea, and baked goods.

stevia plants and sugar

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is a delicious natural sweetener that comes from the sap of maple trees. It’s a great substitute for sugar in baking, pancakes, and oatmeal. Maple syrup also contains important minerals like zinc and manganese, which are essential for immune function and bone health.

maple syrup
maple syrup pancakes

The Dangers Of Sugar In Your Diet

Refined sugar, also known as “added sugar,” is a type of sugar in processed foods and drinks to enhance their flavor. 

Unfortunately, eating too much refined sugar can hurt your health and well-being. For instance, it can lead to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions. Refined sugar is also known to cause inflammation in the body, which can result in joint pain, headaches, and fatigue. Additionally, it can disrupt your mood, energy levels, and sleep patterns, and may even contribute to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. 

To put your health and well-being first, it’s important to watch how much refined sugar you eat and to choose whole foods whenever possible.

Healthy Sugar Substitues: Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many healthy sugar substitutes that satisfy your sweet tooth without putting your health at risk. Bananas, applesauce, dates, honey, molasses, stevia, and maple syrup are just a few of the many options available.

By using these healthy alternatives to sugar in your daily life, you’ll enjoy tasty baked goods and sweet treats while helping your overall health. Try swapping out refined sugar for one of these healthy options in your next recipe and enjoy the many benefits of a healthier diet.

8 Liver Detox Drinks to Cleanse and Support Your Liver

8 Liver Detox Drinks to Cleanse and Support Your Liver

 

 

 

The liver is one of the most important organs in the body. It gets rid of toxins and cleans the body of harmful substances. But our modern way of life and unhealthy diet can cause toxins to build up in the liver, which can hurt its ability to work and our health as a whole. Luckily, there are several liver detox drinks that can help cleanse and support this vital organ. In this article, we will explore eight of the best liver detox drinks that you can easily make at home.

1. Lemon water

Lemon water is a simple yet effective liver detox drink. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which help flush out toxins from the liver and improve its overall health. Simply squeeze half a lemon into a glass of water and drink it first thing in the morning for the best results.

detox-liver-drinks-lemon-water
hot-lemon-water

2. Green Tea Beetroot Juice 

Green tea has many health benefits, one of which is that it helps the liver work better. It is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which help reduce inflammation and improve liver function. Drinking 2-3 cups of green tea daily can help support your liver’s health. Beetroot juice is a powerful liver cleanser because it is full of antioxidants and compounds that fight inflammation. It helps improve blood flow to the liver, which in turn helps remove toxins from the liver. You can make beetroot juice at home by blending raw beetroot with water and adding a bit of honey or lemon juice for taste.

 

beetroot-juice
green-tea

3. Carrot, Turmeric and Lemon Juice

Turmeric is a spice with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps to support liver health by reducing inflammation and improving liver function. You can make turmeric tea by adding a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a cup of hot water and adding honey or lemon juice for taste.

carrot-juice
liver-detox-drink-with-tumeric

4. Grapefruit and Olive Oil, A Well-known Liver Detox Drink

Grapefruit contains a compound called naringenin, which has been shown in some studies to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, grapefruit may help stimulate the liver to produce enzymes that support detoxification.

On the other hand, olive oil has a lot of monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to better liver function and less liver inflammation. Olive oil also contains antioxidants that may help protect the liver from damage.

One popular liver detoxification method that involves grapefruit and olive oil is called the “grapefruit and olive oil cleanse.” This is done by drinking a mixture of grapefruit juice and olive oil, usually first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, to help the liver work better and get rid of toxins.

grapefruit-juice
olive-oil

5. Apple Cider Vinegar Ginger Tea

One of the primary ways that ginger may help the liver is by reducing inflammation.  Chronic inflammation can contribute to a range of health problems, including liver damage. Ginger contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.

Some studies have suggested that ginger may help regulate liver enzymes, which are important for detoxification and other liver functions. In one study, participants who consumed ginger supplements for 12 weeks showed significant reductions in levels of liver enzymes that indicate liver damage.

Apple cider vinegar is a popular liver detox drink that contains acetic acid, which helps to improve liver function and detoxify the liver. It also helps to improve digestion and can aid in weight loss. You can mix one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in ginger tea. 

    liver-detox-drinks-.-ginger-tea

    6. Celery and Lemon Juice

     

    celery-cut-up
    celery-juice

    7. Cabbage And Apple Juice

    Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that contains compounds called glucosinolates, which have been shown to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. Also, cabbage has a lot of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, which are good for the health of the liver.

    Apples, on the other hand, contain a flavonoid called quercetin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Apples are also high in fiber, which can help promote digestion and improve overall gut health.

    When cabbage and apple juice are mixed together, they may provide a powerful dose of nutrients and antioxidants that help the liver work and clean the body.

    cabbage-juice

    Eating Fruit and Vegetables to Detox The Liver

    In addition to liver detox drinks, you can also help your liver’s health by eating certain vegetables. Vegetables like celery, carrots, apples, and cabbage are especially good for the liver. Celery contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help support liver function. Beta-carotene, which is abundant in carrots, helps to shield the liver from toxicity-related damage. Apples contain pectin, which helps to remove toxins from the digestive system and improve liver function. Cabbage is rich in glucosinolates, which are sulfur-containing compounds that support liver function and help to remove toxins from the body. Adding these vegetables to your diet can help improve liver health and support overall well-being.

    Liver Detox Drinks Conclusion

    In conclusion, drinking liver detox drinks every day can help your liver work better and improve your health as a whole. These eight liver detox drinks are easy to make at home and can be incorporated into your daily routine for best results. However, it is important to note that these drinks are not a substitute for medical treatment and should be used as part of a healthy lifestyle.

    Celery Apple Salad: A Healthy and Delicious Dose of Nutrients

    Celery Apple Salad: A Healthy and Delicious Dose of Nutrients

     

     

     

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    JUMP TO RECIPE

    Celery and apples are two of the most common and easily accessible fruits and vegetables in the market. They are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. These two simple ingredients can be combined to create a delicious and healthy celery apple salad that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

    Servings:

    4

    Ready In:

    15 min

    Calories:

    88

    Good For:

    lunch, starter

    Health Benefits Of Celery Apple Salad

    Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

    Celery and apples are both rich in essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health and wellness. Celery is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate, while apples are a good source of vitamin C and fiber. Together, these two ingredients create a powerhouse of nutrients that will boost your immune system, support cardiovascular health, and improve digestion.

    Antioxidant-rich

    Antioxidants play an important role in protecting the body from free radical damage, which can lead to a variety of chronic illnesses. Both celery and apples are rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. By incorporating celery apple salad into your diet, you’ll be boosting your antioxidant levels and helping to protect your body from oxidative stress.

    celery apple salad
    apple-and-celery-salad-recipe

    Low in Calories and High in Fiber

    Celery and apples are both low in calories, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight. They are also high in fiber, which will help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time, reducing the likelihood of overeating and snacking on unhealthy foods.

    Celery Apple Salad Supports a Healthy Gut

    The fiber in celery and apples is important for maintaining a healthy gut. It helps to promote regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support the growth of healthy gut bacteria. A healthy gut is crucial for overall health and wellness, as it plays a key role in immune function, digestion, and mental health.

    Celery Apple Salad Is Easy to Make and Customizable

    Celery apple salad is a simple and easy-to-make dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for a crunch, or even add a vinaigrette dressing for a touch of flavor. This salad is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or as a side dish to any meal.

    celery
    apple slices

    Nutrition

    • Calories: 88
    • Protein: 1g
    • Fat: 7g
    • Carbs: 8g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Sugar: 5g
    • Cholesterol: 1g
    • Sodium: 40mg

    Amounts per serving:

    • Protein 1g 4.5% 4.5%
    • Carbohydrates 7g 30% 30%
    • of Which Sugar is 5g 21% 21%
    • Fiber 3g 13% 13%
    • Fat 7g 30% 30%

    Celery Apple Salad Recipe

    It's important to note that the nutritional information may vary slightly based on the size of the ingredients used and any additional ingredients or seasonings added. However, this celery apple salad is a healthy and nutritious option that can be easily incorporated into your diet.
    Prep Time15 minutes
    Total Time15 minutes
    Course: Salad
    Cuisine: American
    Diet: Diabetic, Low Calorie, Low Fat, Low Lactose, Low Salt, Vegan, Vegetarian
    Keyword: apple, celery, salad
    Servings: 4 portions
    Calories: 88kcal
    Cost: 2$

    Ingredients

    • 1 whole apple
    • 3 sticks celery with leaves on
    • 1 whole paprika
    • 1 quarter cucumber
    • 2 tbsp lemon juice preferably fresh
    • 3 tbsp olive oil
    • 2 tbsp vinegar
    • 1 tsp mustard
    • 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
    • 1 handful walnuts preferably roasted

    Instructions

    • Prepare the celery and apples: Wash the celery stalks and slice them thinly. Core the apples and dice them into small pieces.
    • Toss the celery and apples with lemon juice: In a large bowl, combine the sliced celery and diced apples. Add the lemon juice and toss to coat. The lemon juice will help to prevent the apples from browning
    • Add the olive oil: Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the celery and apples. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Mix in the optional ingredients: If desired, add the chopped walnuts and raisins to the salad.
    • Chill and serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir and enjoy!

    Notes

    Feel free to add in roasted walnuts, rasins or even a splash of greek yogurt. 
     
    salad dressing

    Conclusion

    celery apple salad is a simple, healthy, and delicious way to get your daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants that will help protect your body from free radical damage. So, why not.

    6 Of The Best Detox Water Recipes. Fall In Love With Water Again

    6 Of The Best Detox Water Recipes. Fall In Love With Water Again

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    JUMP TO RECIPE

    These are the best detox water recipes for weight loss, aiding digestion, cleansing the body and looking dang great at parties!

     

    • Cucumber and lemon detox water
    • Mango and Thyme
    • Strawberry and mint
    • Basil and raspberries.
    • Grapefruit and Rosemary
    • Apple cider and sage detox

    There are plenty of detox water recipes out there. These 6 recipes offer the most value and taste great.

    Is Detox Water a Miracle Elixirs?

    What if I told you that you could easily create a Detox Drink (or drinks), resulting in over 20 health benefits.

    • Weight loss (1)
    • Better digestion(2)
    • Increased energy levels (3)

    Sound too good to be true? The truth is these benefits are reached by drinking good old fashioned plain water. But for some of us, we battle to reach our daily water intake requirements.

    Why is that? How can we change this?

    So, if you’re like me and you need a little something more interesting to convince your dumb self to drink the stuff, then go ahead and make these delicious detox waters. Or maybe you’re just looking for something interesting and cost-effective to serve at your next lunch or dinner party, (or even your surprise wedding).

    water in glasses with fruit and herbs

    1. Lemon and Cucumber Detox Water

    How to make Lemon and Cucumber Detox Water

    This is one of the most popular detox water recipes out there!

    Cut up some lemons and cucumbers and place them in a glass or jug or fruit-infused water bottle.

    Store in the refrigerator for 1 to 12 hours. Remove cucumber skins to reduce contamination and lemon rinds for bitterness if storing for longer periods of time.

    Benefits of Lemon and Cucumber Detox Water

    This is the ultimate detox drink. Lemon has a whole host of health benefits, and the cucumber gives a subtle but distinct flavor.

    • Burn belly fat.
    • Curb appetite.
    • Fush the digestive system and rehydrate the body.
    • Immune boost with vitamin C from the lemon.
    lemon and cucumber cut up on a board
    lemon and cucumber detox water

    2. Mango and Thyme Detox Water

    How to make Mango and Thyme Detox Water

    Cut up some Mango, wash some thyme sprigs, and place them together in a glass or jug or fruit-infused water bottle.
    Store in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 12 hours. Serve cold.

    Benefits of Mango and Thyme Detox Water

    • Protect againsts cancers- Mango has high antioxidant properties that have been found to.
    • Keeps you feeling full for longer- this is thanks to the fiber in mango. (Snack on a bit of the leftover mango pieces to reap these benefits).
    mango and thyme cut up on a board
    mango and thyme detox waterdetox water

    3. Strawberry and Mint Detox Water

    How To make Strawberry and Mint Detox Water

    Wash and cut up some strawberries and fresh mint leaves and place them in a glass or jug or fruit-infused water bottle.
    Store in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 12 hours. For a more intense flavor, bruise the fruit and tear up the leaves.

    Make sure to remove the fruit a while before decomposition starts.

    Benefits of Strawberry and Mint Detox Water

    • Major source of antioxidants and Vitamin C .
    • Strawberries are fat-free, cholesterol-free, and low in calories.
    • Mint aids digestion.
    • Makes a well-balanced refreshing taste.
    strawberry cut up on a board
    strawberry detox water

    4. Raspberries and Basil Detox Water

    How To make Raspberries and Basil Detox Water

    Wash some raspberries and fresh basil leaves and place in a glass or jug or fruit-infused water bottle.
    Store in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 12 hours. For a more intense flavor, bruise the fruit and tear up the leaves. Make sure to remove the fruit a while before decomposition starts.

    Health benefits of Raspberries and Basil Detox Water

    • Packed with vitamin c and antioxidants
      low in calories.
    • Have anti-inflammatory properties.
    • Basil tones down the sweetness of the berries creating a great refreshing summer drink.
    rasberry and mint cut up on a board
    rasberry detox water
    grapefruit cut up on a board
    grapefruit detox water

    5. Grapefruit and Rosemary Detox Water

    How To Make Grapefruit and Rosemary Detox Water

    Cut up some grapefruits, wash some fresh rosemary, and place in a glass or jug or fruit-infused water bottle.
    Store in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 12 hours. Remove Grapefruit rinds if storing for longer periods of time to prevent bitterness from the pith.

    Benefits Of Grapefruit and Rosemary Detox Water

    • Aids weight loss: Grapefruit has been associated with weight loss and used in diets for years.
    • low in calories
    • lowers blood sugar levels due to the high fiber content
    • Makes you feel fuller for longer: The fruit will help fill you up, so you’ll eat fewer calories at meals.

    These benefits are only experienced when eating the fruit because of its fiber content. After drinking your water, snack on the leftover pieces or blitz the grapefruit (rind and pith removed first) with water and have as a smoothie for these benefits.

    Rosemary has a very distinct taste and fragrant smell. You’ll only need a few sprigs to create a powerful taste explosion.

    6. Apples, Apple Cider Vinegar, And Sage Detox Water

    How To Make an Apple Cider Detox Water

    Cut up some apples and add some apple cider vinegar, honey, and sage into a glass or jug or fruit-infused water bottle.

    Being a vinegar and therefore acidic by nature, you’ll need to dilute it first to protect your esophagus. Mixing it with some sweet honey and fresh sage balances out its pungent nature.
    Store in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 12 hours and serve chilled.

    Alternatively, enjoy as a hot drink by steeping for 30 minutes before drinking.

    Health Benefits of Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Detox Water

    There are so many wonderful benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar, even daily. 

    • Aids in weight loss.
    • Lowers heart disease risk.
    • Acetic acid boost.
    • It helps digestion, nutrient absorption, and acid reflux.
    • Balance body’s PH levels.
    • Increases energy to muscles.

    Detox water is a great way to get you to drink more water because the extra ingredients make drinking water more fun.

    apple cider vinegar on board with cut apple slices
    apple cider vinegar detox water

    If you need a little more info on detox water recipes and their benefits or when the best time to drink it is, head over to the article on 9 Detox Water Facts Proving It’s Good For Your Health (Recipe Included)