Whether you need a healthy and refreshing breakfast or an afternoon snack to beat the heat, this blueberry flaxseed cacao smoothie fits the bill. It has a subtle hint of chocolate from the raw cacao powder that pairs beautifully with the sweetly tart blueberries and nutty ground flaxseed. You can stream in coconut oil at the very end of the blending process for an extra dose of heart-healthy fats.

A randomized controlled trial found that eating blueberries improved endothelial function (how blood vessels relax). Another study found that blueberries helped improve blood vessel function and reduces systolic blood pressure after consuming them for 12 weeks. A more recent clinical review links the anthocyanins (antioxidant compounds that give blueberries their color) to better vascular function and modest blood pressure improvements. Additionally. a systematic review of randomized trials found that blueberry intervention improved memory and cognitive performance.

Similar to blueberries, ground flaxseed works to enhance heart health. In fact, a meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials found that flaxseed significantly reduced total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. A larger meta-analysis confirmed that flaxseed helped lower triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. More recent studies suggest that flaxseed may help lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Flaxseed may also help lower some markers of inflammation.

Needless to say, this smoothie is one heck of a nutritional powerhouse!

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A creamy, dreamy chocolate chia pudding is all you need…when you are craving a healthy, filling breakfast, pre- or post-workout snack, or guilt-free dessert. It checks all the boxes: delicious, nutrient-dense, good for you, etc. It is a rich, luxurious chia pudding that is a real dream come true for anyone who has a sweet tooth but wants to satisfy their sugar cravings in a healthier way. The texture is similar to tapioca, with each bite melting in your mouth. Once you try this chia pudding, you will definitely want to make this recipe over and over again.

One of the great things about this chia pudding, besides the flavor and nutrients, is that it is budget-friendly. We can’t be paying $6+ per gallon of gas and $18 for a bowl of chia pudding! Fortunately, chia seeds are very affordable and last a long time. Plus, they are extremely versatile, going great in everything from smoothies, acai bowls, puddings, energy balls, and more. Chia seeds are also great sources of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, but they are not the only ingredient in this pudding offering nutritional benefits. The raw cacao powder, for instance, is an excellent source of magnesium, iron, and theobromine, which together support cognitive function, heart health, and overall mood. In fact, the omega-3s in chia seeds aid the absorption of iron in cacao.

Before you indulge in this chocolatey deliciousness, just know that it doesn’t come together instantaneously. Take 10 minutes of your time to prep it at night, place it in the fridge, and remove it in the morning when ready to eat. This is a great meal prep recipe, but keep in mind that you have to eat it within three to four days.

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If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, it can be difficult to meet your recommended daily intake (RDI) of certain nutrients. The reason for this is because some nutrients, such as iron or vitamin B12, are more naturally present in animal-based foods. For example, red meats, such as beef or bison, are among the best sources of iron. A three-ounce serving of cooked ground beef provides 2.27 milligrams (mg) of iron, which translates to 12.6% of the RDI. 

There is no reason to fear if you follow a plant-based diet, though, as there are vegan sources of iron to help you meet your daily needs. Generally speaking, the average male over the age of 19 needs 8.7 mg per day, while a woman between ages 19 and 49 requires 14.8 mg per day. A woman over the age of 50 needs 8.7 mg of iron per day, but they may require the same amount as women aged 19 to 49 if they still have their period. Continue reading to learn about plant-based iron-rich foods that help you meet your daily iron needs. 

As a quick rule of thumb, be sure to pair plant-based iron-rich foods with vitamin C, as it enhances the body’s ability to absorb iron. Bell peppers, orange, juice, kiwis, guavas, and many other fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C. 

Tofu

A one-cup serving of tofu contains 6 mg of iron, which is close to the RDI, depending on who you are. Tofu is a plant-based protein made from soybeans, which are great sources of non-heme iron. It is a staple in plant-based diets, especially if people are concerned about their iron intake. You can enjoy tofu as a meat replacement, as it is very versatile and can easily absorb flavors, in addition to being high in protein. Try it baked, sautéed, in soups, or pan-fried, or even add it to sweet recipes like desserts and smoothies. 

Lentils

If you need iron on a vegan diet, do not ignore legumes like lentils, which are some of the most concentrated plant-based sources of iron. With 6 mg of iron in a one-cup serving, lentils offer more than twice the amount of iron in a typical serving of beef. Just like tofu, lentils offer non-heme iron, so the body absorbs it less efficiently than heme iron from animal foods. Due to the high concentration of iron in lentils, they remain an excellent choice for anyone following a vegan or vegetarian diet. They also offer plant-based protein, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. 

Dark Chocolate (45% – 69% Cacao)

A lot of people like to make the argument that eating dark chocolate is healthy. To be clear, eating dark chocolate all the time is not the diet you need in life, but eating it in moderation can help you obtain certain nutrients, such as iron. A two-ounce serving of dark chocolate provides 22% of the RDI of iron. This is because cocoa beans naturally contain iron, and that iron becomes more concentrated once the beans are ground into cocoa to make chocolate. Because dark chocolate is made with more cocoa than milk chocolate, it has a higher dose of iron. Just make sure to enjoy dark chocolate that ranges between 45% and 69% cacao. 

Spinach

As if you needed another reason to eat spinach. Spinach is a leafy green well known for its impressive nutritional profile. One serving of spinach packs more than twice as much iron as beef. One cup of spinach provides 34% of the RDI of iron. It is a very affordable produce item, making it a smart, iron-rich choice for budget-friendly plant-based shopping. Spinach is also rich in magnesium, folate, vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and more. Incorporate it into salads, smoothies, soups, stews, or sauté it with other vegetables. 

Stewed Tomatoes

To round out the list, we have an unsuspecting plant-based food: stewed tomatoes. Although fresh tomatoes are low in iron, concentrated tomato products, such as stewed tomatoes, are excellent sources of the mineral. One cup of stewed tomatoes provides 4 mg of iron, which is about 22% of the RDI. They also contain a lot of vitamin C, making stewed tomatoes a helpful ingredient for meeting your daily iron needs.

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When you think of chocolate spread, you probably think of Nutella. It’s a classic spread that not only contains hazelnuts, but also milk, soy, vegetable fats, flavorings, and sugar…lots of sugar. A one-tablespoon serving of Nutella has the following stats:

• Calories: 80 calories
• Fats: 4.6 grams (g)
• Carbohydrates: 8.6 g
• Sugar: 8.4 g
• Protein: 0.9 g

If it is truly a hazelnut spread, why is sugar the first ingredient? That is never a good sign for your health. Fortunately, this recipe is the perfect dip, spread, or breakfast topping. You can even eat it by the spoonful! Just be mindful of how much you eat. because cashews also contain a lot of calories. It does taste good on just about anything and satisfies your chocolate cravings in a healthier way than Nutella does.

Besides the ingredients, the other primary difference between this recipe and a store bought chocolate spread is that is not shelf-stable. This recipe only lasts for about a week, but you have to store it properly in order for this to happen. You will need raw cashews, raw cacao powder, agave nectar, vanilla extract, coconut oil, and sea salt. It’s possible that the chocolate cashew butter will separate slightly, due to the fact that it contains agave nectar and coconut oil. Just give it a good mix every time you eat it and you’ll be fine!

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Get the ingredients and ready your food processor because homemade energy bites are as easy as one, two, three. An easy-to-make snack that is rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, and free of preservatives and added sugars? How many times can we say yes? When you need a boost of energy and want to enjoy something that is wholesome, nutrient-dense, and delicious, turn to these chocolate hemp and pumpkin seed energy bites. They take less than 10 minutes to process and then another few minutes to form into balls. Freeze them until firm and then enjoy!

You will need raw pumpkin seeds, hemp hearts, chia seeds, raw cacao powder, Medjool dates, raw sunflower seed butter, alcohol-free vanilla extract, and grade A maple syrup. Once you gather your ingredients, ready the food processor fitted with the ‘S’ blade. You will first have to process the pumpkin seeds with the hemp hearts. Once that becomes a crumbly mixture, add the chia seeds, dates, vanilla, sea salt, sunflower seed butter, and maple syrup to the processor. Pulse until that mixture is a dough-like consistency. It will almost turn into a ball in the food processor. Just make sure to stop blending, scrape down the sides, and continue blending in order to fully incorporate all of the ingredients.

Due to the fact that these energy bites have sunflower seeds, hemp hearts, chia seeds, and sunflower seed butter, they are not lacking in healthy fats, protein, or fiber. That makes them great for enjoying when you want something to hold you over between meals. They are also great to enjoy pre- or post-workout, as the nutrients in them aid both muscle performance and recovery.

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In order to avoid dehydration, you have to drink the right amount of fluids. That is true whether you are exercising or not. Knowing the risks of dehydration is paramount when deciding what to drink during a workout, though. You probably don’t want to reach for the iced latte when it’s time to do five sets of squats. Water or electrolyte-rich beverages may help you replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, while other drinks can help provide protein and carbohydrates post-workout.

When you consider that more than 60% of the body is made up of water, it is clear that water is necessary for the body to function. It is very easy to lose water when you work out, especially if you are someone who sweats a lot. Drinking water not only helps to lubricate the joints, but it also aids tissue function, regulates body temperature, and helps transport nutrients throughout the body.

Choose The Right Beverage

Oftentimes, the simplest solution is the best one, and that’s especially true for a workout beverage. The average person only requires water during and after a workout, according to nutritionists. If you are an athlete or you spend more than three hours at a time doing your workout, you may want to opt for chocolate milk post-workout. Nutritionists explain that chocolate milk contains sodium and calcium, both of which you lose via sweat. The protein aids cell and tissue repair, but keep in mind that you can feel sluggish if you drink chocolate milk after a workout. Instead, coconut water or sports drinks may be better and healthier choices. Avocados, bananas, orange juice, and other foods can also help you replenish electrolytes.

Don’t Drink Too Much

Believe it or not, it is possible to drink too much liquid during a workout. That said, it is more of a risk during triathlons and marathons. Athletes who consume a lot of fluids, even sports drinks, without intaking enough sodium can develop hyponatremia, a life-threatening condition. The symptoms of hyponatremia include:

• Agitation
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Muscle cramps, weakness, or twitching
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Seizures or coma

Make Sure To Consume Protein And Carbs

It’s no secret that exercise is beneficial for your overall health. It’s common to experience minor cell or tissue damage as a result of working out, though. Protein can help repair that damage, so consuming a beverage that contains protein after an intense workout may accelerate recovery. You can also expend a lot of energy during exercise, so you want to consume three times more carbohydrates than protein. That’s why some people drink milk or milk with protein powder after a workout. 

Consume The Right Amount

You don’t want to “drink until failure,” but there is also no set amount of water to drink during a workout. If you want to calculate your sweat rate, though, you will need to weigh yourself before and after you exercise and do some calculations. As a general rule of thumb for hydration, you should drink about half your bodyweight in ounces of water per day. That means that if you weigh 150 pounds, you divide that by two to get 75, so you drink 75 ounces of water per day. You can also drink four to eight ounces every 15 to 20 minutes during your workout if you don’t want to do the math, or if you sweat a lot. 

Know The Risks Of Dehydration

A lot of complications can result from not drinking enough water, the most common of which is fatigue. Your blood thickens and the heart has to work harder if you don’t consume enough water. Not only does that tire you out quickly, but it can also increase the risk of the following:

• Fainting
• Confusion
• Shock
• Quick breathing
• Infrequent urination
• Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)

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These raw vegan fudge pops are similar to a chocolate avocado smoothie or pudding, in that the avocado is completely undetectable. It flies under the radar of your taste buds and all you taste is chocolatey deliciousness. They are easy to whip up and magical once frozen. With warmer weather gracing us, there has never been a better time to make these pops. Perfect for a backyard barbecue, movie night, or children’s birthday party!

The last thing you want to do is use unripe avocados to make these fudge pops. Not only will your pops not be creamy, but they will also have a slightly bitter flavor, which you do not want from a dessert. Make sure your avocados are ripe and quite soft to the touch, but you don’t want them overripe either. Blend the avocados with the rest of the ingredients until completely smooth. Once the mixture is smooth, you can poor it into the popsicle mold. Cover the mold with the lid and insert the popsicle sticks, or you can use the sticks that come with the mold if you have that type of mold.

If you are not the biggest avocado fan and want to start eating more of them, this is a great entry point because you cannot taste it. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, avocados work to benefit heart health by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. They also contain a variety of B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3), all of which help the body convert food into energy. Niacin, specifically, can fight inflammation and protect arterial health by improving triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

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For anyone looking to take their breakfast game to healthier heights, look no further than overnight oats. This is a simple, nourishing dish that is great for busy professionals, health enthusiasts, and families alike. An overnight oats recipe typically contains lots of fiber, protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and other vitamins and minerals, making it a great dish to begin the day. Not to mention, you do all the prep work at night so that your breakfast is ready to go whenever you need it in the morning. Because it is in a jar or bowl, you can take it to go if you are in a rush.

This recipe combines the indulgent, slightly bitter flavor of raw cacao powder with a handful of other nutrient-dense ingredients, including almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and optional toppings. Creating this overnight oats recipe is a fairly straightforward process. Before you prep any of the ingredients, though, make sure that you have a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk or mixing utensil, and mason jars or airtight containers for storage. Once you have your kitchen essentials, you can prepare the overnight oats.

Begin with rolled oats and whisk in your unsweetened almond milk. The liquid works to hydrate the oats and create a creamy consistency. Incorporate the cacao powder, which is crucial for the chocolatey flavor. It also gives the overnight oats a generous boost of antioxidants. Chia seeds work to thicken the oats, while adding valuable omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Finally, the vanilla extract adds another dimension of flavor, complementing the natural sugars in the maple syrup.

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If you want to pack a lot of fruits and vegetables into one meal, make a smoothie. If you want to fill up on an assortment of valuable nutrients, make a smoothie. In case the point isn’t clear, we love smoothies, especially one that is as nutrient-dense and delicious as this recipe. This smoothie is packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, antioxidants, and numerous vitamins and minerals. It is smooth, rich, and creamy just like a milkshake!

Most smoothies use banana as the base with the intension of creating a creamy texture with natural sweetness. This smoothie includes a frozen banana, but it also incorporates avocado, which contributes to the creaminess. Ideally, freeze both the banana and avocado overnight. Make sure to peel and slice the banana and avocado prior to freezing. If you freeze both of these ingredients with the peels on, you will regret it. If you already have some frozen banana or frozen avocado on hand, feel free to include that in the smoothie. You may already have packaged frozen avocado or banana, which you can use as long as there are no added ingredients.

If you are all about the chocolate life, you may want to consider making your own raw vegan chocolate almond milk or cashew milk. The way to do this is very similar to a traditional nut milk recipe, only you whisk in raw cacao powder until smooth. Because raw cacao powder has a bitter taste, you may need to add some extra grade A maple syrup or raw agave nectar to your homemade chocolate milk. If that sounds like a few too many steps, feel free to just add raw cacao powder to the smoothie with the homemade almond milk. Don’t have the energy to make almond milk? Use water instead!

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It’s the middle of March, which can only mean one thing: St Patrick’s Day is nearly here. There is a certain food establishment that serves the classic Shamrock Shake annually. You know the one, right? There are golden arches, or something like that (wink wink). The main thing we want is for you not to succumb to the temptation. Don’t let curiosity get the better of you because one of those small shakes contains the following nutrition:

• Calories: 500
• Total carbohydrates: 82 grams (g)
• Protein: 11 g
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 55 milligrams (mg)
• Calcium: 380 mg
• Potassium: 500 mg
• Sodium: 160 mg

For reference, the shake is made with vanilla ice cream, a sugary processed syrup, and whipped cream. This recipe doesn’t contain any of those things, because we actually care about your health. The good news is that there are many different ways to create your own shamrock shake. You just have to keep an open mind about your food, and all that you can do with it.

This shake is not really a shake; rather, it’s a smoothie. Avocado contributes to the green color, but so does the spinach and mint. Avocado is a great smoothie ingredient because it helps make it more creamy, while also adding protein, healthy fats, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. Don’t worry…you won’t taste it at all, especially since this smoothie also contains bananas, which provide natural sweetness. The touch of raw cacao powder is optional, but it provides the classic mint chocolate combo that a shamrock shake is.

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