Can Eating Less Meat Help the Environment?

It may surprise meat lovers but, according to the United Nations, farm animals create up to one third more greenhouse gas emissions worldwide than cars and planes do. The grazing of cattle, goats, sheep and pigs contribute to the detriment of the environment not only by emitting huge amounts of methane but also because of the chemical fertilizers used to grow the grains they eat. The preservation and transportation methods used to get these meat products to the consumer are also harmful to the environment.

Gluten Free Flourless Black Bean Avocado Brownies

Ingredients

• 1 medium avocado
• 3 cups cooked black beans, rinsed
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup raw sugar
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1 Tbs. vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup good quality dark chocolate, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Combine all ingredients except chocolate in food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
3. Grease a 13 x 9 in glass pan and use a rubber spatula to scrape batter into pan.
4. Top with chocolate chunks and press into top.
5. Bake for 35- 45 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
6. Cool completely before cutting.
   
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How to Soothe Puffy Eyes

Puffy eyes can be caused by a variety of problems such as allergies to dust, dander or pollen, lack of sufficient sleep or poor eating habits. Although the dark, puffy circles and swollen lids can sometimes be covered by skillfully applied makeup, this does not treat the underlying problem. While puffiness can be a problem that should be addressed by an optometrist if the symptoms are severe or if the problem persists for many days, it can often be cleared up on one’s own following some basic home remedies. These remedies seek to tighten the skin surrounding the eyes or reduce the swelling under the thin, under eye and eyelid skin.

Foods that Help SIBO

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO, is a condition where large amounts of bacteria normally seen in the colon are found in the small intestine. Symptoms may include abdominal bloating and pain, acid reflux, diarrhea, indigestion and excess flatulence.

Bentonite Clay Baths to Aid Detoxification

Clay baths have been used to centuries to reduce toxins in the body and heal skin infections. Mud baths are often a feature at high-end spas. If you have ever had a clay facial mask, you know how it feels when the clay pulls the impurities from your skin. Just imagine what that would do for your entire body.

An Intro to Hemp Oil

Hemp is a type of plant that contains organic tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Its fibers are strong, and many parts of the plant are edible. Hempseed oil in particular is rich in healthful fatty acids that make it a healthy adjunct to many diets as well as an ingredient in beauty products. As hemp products become legal in more areas, it is worth exploring the uses of hempseed oil.

How to Avoid Common Home Decorating Mistakes

Finding that great layout for a room and decorating a home can be both exciting and challenging. Everything from lighting to simple touches can truly make the room complete. However, there are a few common mistakes that many decorators fall back on without realizing it.

How to Extend the Life of Your Produce

How to Extend the Life of Your Produce

One of the best ways to get ample nutrients from the foods we eat is to choose fresh fruits and vegetables. Many of these foods do not have long shelf lives and will quickly spoil if they are not kept in the refrigerator. On the other hand, some fruits and vegetables will develop bad flavors or develop a poor texture if they are kept in the refrigerator. For example, tomatoes can become soft and mealy if they are kept in the crisper.

Other produce that should be kept in a bowl on the counter, rather than the refrigerator, include winter squash, citrus fruits, bananas, cucumbers and peppers.

Storage Tips for Longer Life:

Garlic Curry Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken, boneless or with bones
• 15 garlic cloves
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1/2 tsp.  turmeric powder
• 2 bay leafs
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 green chilies, slit in center
• salt
• oil

Instructions

Help for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) Pain!

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, commonly called TMJ, affects 28% of adults in the United States. Common symptoms of TMJ include:

• tension and pain in the face and jaw
• difficulty turning the head
• neck pain and tension
• toothaches
• problems reading or working on a computer
• headaches
• problems yawning, chewing, or opening your mouth
• ear pain
• jaw popping and cracking
• pain and stiffness in your mid-back

High-Sugar vs. Low-Sugar Beverages

High-sugar drinks play a large role in the obesity epidemic seen in developed countries. These drinks are found everywhere from fast-food chains to school locker rooms. Although they are high in calories, they are not very satisfying, and drinking them may lead you to make poor dietary choices the rest of the day.

Some of the top offenders in the high-sugar category include:

            Our Favorite Calorie Tracking Apps!

Staying on track with your weight loss goals has never been easier for those who are constantly on the go. These three mobile fitness apps make weight loss convenient and simple so you always know exactly where you are with your goals.

Cinnamon for Blood Sugar Support

Cinnamon is an ancient spice used for centuries as an antibiotic, but now studies show that it can help lower blood sugar. One variety of cinnamon seems to be more effective than the other, but both have some effect on blood sugar levels.

 Vegetarian Protein Sources

Whether you have come to the vegetarian lifestyle out of your compassion for animals or for its proven health benefits, you may have questions. One common concern people new to a plant-based diet have is, “Hey! Where do I get protein now?” Knowing your plant-based protein sources will be helpful.