Butternut Squash Orzo Salad with Candied Bacon I managed to grow a few too many squash plants, and so I have a plethora of squash this fall. Here is a wonderful salad to share all season long, with pretty colors and delicious flavor! Ingredients Squash and Orzo 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 cups cubed butternut squash 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon chili powder ¼ teaspoon cinnamon 7 slices bacon, chopped (omit if vegetarian) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or sage 2 teaspoons maple syrup ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste 1 box orzo pasta 2 cups shredded or torn kale ½ cup roasted pepitas 6 ounces crumbled goat cheese Balsamic Vinaigrette ½ cup extra virgin olive...
Cortisol, often dubbed the "stress hormone," plays a pivotal role in the body's response to various stressors, regulating metabolism, immune function, and overall well-being. Definition and Function of Cortisol What is Cortisol? Classified as a glucocorticoid hormone, cortisol is a crucial component of the body's stress response system.It is synthesized from cholesterol through a series of enzymatic reactions in the adrenal cortex. Levels of cortisol fluctuate throughout the day, following a circadian rhythm. While essential for survival, chronic elevation or depletion of cortisol levels can lead to a range of health issues, making it crucial to maintain cortisol levels within a healthy range. Cortisol Production and Regulation Cortisol production and regulation are tightly controlled processes by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis....
This is a bit of a long read, so for those of you that want all the details, read on, and for those of you who just the thumbnail summary, here you go: Sleep deprivation is “the condition that occurs if you don’t get enough sleep.” This is also sometimes called “sleep debt” or “sleep deficiency.” Sleep is very important for a variety of health related concerns. It's associated with problems including fatigue, headaches, reduced productivity, mood issues, weight gain, brain fog and fatigue increased susceptibility to accidents or injuries loss of productivity at work irritability and moodiness relationship problems even a greater risk of death due to problems affecting your heart and immune system and higher risk for many...
Roasted Radish & Spring Vegetables with Lemon & Thyme Bright and vibrant spring vegetables pulled together with creamy avocados, sweet applesauce, and tangy lemon. Perfect for any brunch spread. Ingredients 4 large carrots peeled & chopped (similar size to halved radishes) 3 bunches radishes washed,tops removed, and cut in half 2 Tbsp unsweetened applesauce 1 leek washed and thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic minced 20 asparagus spears chopped 2 c. fresh English peas 2 tsp fresh thyme chopped 1 lemon juiced salt & pepper to taste 1 avocado (optional) Instructions Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. In a bowl toss the radishes and carrots with the applesauce and a pinch of salt. Mix until the vegetables are well coated...
How to Build a Better Smoothie The best smoothies have a mix of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables and fruits rich in fiber and micronutrients. Choose the right liquid. Many smoothies, especially the ones you buy at juice bars and cafes, call for high-sugar fruit juices to blend the other ingredients. Skip the sugar and choose unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, flax milk or water to avoid a blood sugar spike. Reach for low-sugar fruits. While fruits are nutritional powerhouses, their sugar content can vary dramatically. To keep your smoothie healthier, favor lower-sugar fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries. These choices are also rich in antioxidants and fibre, promoting a slower glucose release into the bloodstream. If you like...
