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Dark Chocolate Mint Pudding

This pudding is so rich and fudgy in the best way and it’s so much better than any pudding pack. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants but when it’s under 85% it has more added sugar that can start to outweigh its beneficial properties. Brands like Alter Eco, Taza, Theo, Endangered Species, or Eating Evolved all have dark chocolate bars between 85-100% so that you can minimize sugar and boost nutrient density. 

If you’re not used to the bitterness of dark chocolate, don’t worry, the mint adds a peppermint patty flavor and freshness that lends sweetness without sugar. 

This pudding is also great because it uses chia seeds, which are a great source of fiber and omega-3’s, and coconut milk, which is an excellent source of healthy fats. This combo of healthy fats, fiber and antioxidants makes this pudding the perfect option to support gut health, balance hormones and cut down cravings – especially during the holidays.  This recipe is a healthy treat, but don’t let it deter you because it’s pure tasty too.

Ingredient

1 can full-fat coconut milk
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
½ cup fresh mint leaves
1 bar 90% chocolate (approx. 2.5-3 oz)
1 teaspoon coconut sugar or honey (optional)
¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Pinch of sea salt

Directions

  1. Fill a small saucepan with 2 inches of water. Place a heatproof glass or metal bowl over the saucepan. The bowl should not touch the water. Place over medium high heat for water to come to a simmer.
  2. Add coconut milk, almond milk, and mint to the bowl. Allow milk mixture to come to a gentle simmer and steep the mint for approximately 10-15 minutes. Make sure it does not come to a boil.
  3. Once steeped, taste to make sure the mint has had enough time to infuse. If it’s minty enough for you, use a slotted spoon to scoop out the mint leaves. If you want it mint-ier, let it steep 5-10 more minutes.
  4. Remove bowl from heat and add the chocolate bar (broken into squares) and coconut sugar to the warm milk. Whisk the mixture until the chocolate is melted and fully incorporated. Sprinkle in the chia seeds and whisk until chia seeds are evenly distributed and the chia has started to absorb some of the liquid, about 3 minutes. Cover the bowl with a towel and let sit for 20-30 minutes to allow the chia seeds to fully hydrate.
  5. Once the chia has absorbed the liquid and looks more solid, pour the mixture into a high speed blender. You can tell that the chia has absorbed the milk mixture when the seeds look plump and stick together. There should not be any liquid left on the surface of the mixture. Puree the pudding mixture until very smooth, about 2 minutes. If you don’t have a high speed blender you can skip this step.
  6. Pour mixture into evenly individual cups and top with fresh mint, coconut flakes, cacao nibs or blackberries. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days – if it lasts that long.
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  • Alanna DeSalvo
  • Nov, 12, 2021

Navigating Non-Toxic Cookware

The holidays are right around the corner and along with that are lots of delicious home-cooked meals, slowing down a bit, and spending time with family and friends. As we give thanks for our health and the health of others, it only seems fitting to talk about how the cookware we are using to create these meals may be contributing to our toxin load. The idea of non-toxic cookware seems tabu, but if you think about it, the materials used to make our cookware are coming in very close contact with the food that we are ingesting. So for this holiday season, we want to educate you on what types of toxins are commonly found in our cookware and what cookware we can use to know that we’re safe.

Common Toxins in Kitchen Pans and Cookware

Let’s take a closer look at some of the toxins that might be lurking in your cookware. Keep in mind, this post is meant to highlight cooking pots, pans, and baking sheets. There are other toxins lurking in water bottles, Tupperware, take home containers, etc. but for the purpose of simplicity, we will save those for another post.

Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAs)

Known as ‘forever chemicals’ because they build up in your body and never break down in the environment (yikes!). This class of polymers gives cookware it’s non-stick coating. You may have heard about these popular PFAs below, but these are only 2 of thousands of PFAs that are still used as non-stick coatings. Not only is it important to avoid the chemicals listed below, but it’s also important to head caution when buying anything labeled as “non-stick” as it might contain another type of PFA not listed here, which is still as toxic to our health. These chemicals are labeled as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The EWG has some great information to learn more about PFAs.

  • Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Also trademarked as “Teflon”, this chemical gives cookware a non-stick coating. One of the main concerns with this compound is that when it heats up, we inhale the toxic fumes during cooking. Teflon is possibly carcinogenic and should be avoided in cookware.

  • Until 2013, Perfluorooctanoic Acids (PFOAs) were used as a non-stick coating. They are resistant to water and lipids which make them a frequently used option on various types of cookware. This chemical is linked to cancer, can cause endocrine disruption leading to infertility and weight gain, as well as mental health issues and problems with the liver.

Although these two chemicals have been mostly phased out, most non-stick cookware will still use some type of PFA to achieve that non-stick coating.

If you have non-stick pans now, practice using them safely. Never use metal utensils on them as the coating is more likely to scratch off and be ingested. Store them properly so that the coating doesn’t scratch from rubbing on another pan. Only use it when you’re cooking things on low heat and make sure to run the kitchen exhaust every time you cook.

Aluminum and Copper

Both aluminum and copper can build up in our bodies and create toxicity. The jury is still out as to how bad aluminum and copper are in cookware and how much we’re actually consuming, but we tend to lean toward precautionary principle, which means if it’s not proven safe—it’s best to avoid it. Avoid cooking your turkey in an aluminum pan and opt for a stainless steel pan instead.

  • When we use anodized aluminum or aluminum foil with anything acidic, the aluminum can leach into our food and we can consume it. Aluminum has been linked to neurological disorders, specifically Alzheimers and could be worse for people who may have kidney issues, as they are less likely to process the aluminum.

  • Some copper can be good for us, but if you’re using copper, avoid cooking anything acidic in it, as that has the highest potential for leaching into whatever you are cooking and high levels of copper in the body can cause toxicity.

Lead and Cadmium

Lead and cadmium can be in the coatings of ceramic cookware and should definitely be considered when purchasing glass or enamel products. Both lead and cadmium have been limited in dish-ware but are not very regulated. To avoid these metals in your kitchenware, look for California Prop 65 warnings and avoid buying dish-ware with this warning.

  • There is no safe level of lead and it can cause neurological issues, especially in children who are still developing. Look for options that are “certified lead free” and unglazed—and keep in mind where they are being manufactured. Some countries have stricter lead regulations, where places like China and Mexico do not. An amazing resource to learn about lead in your cookware, dishes, and toys is Lead Safe Mama.

  • Cadmium is a natural metal found in nature and can also be found in the pigments of certain glazes on ceramic dish-ware to create an orange or red pigmentation. Exposure to cadmium can lead to certain neurological disorders and is best avoided.

What to Look for in Safe Kitchen Pans and Cookware

  • Be wary of non-stick pans labeled as “PFOA Free” or free of one of the above chemicals may actually have been replaced with something similar in toxicity, so beware.

  • Consider what the raw material is of the pan. Does this cause harm to your health?

  • Does the pan contain a glaze or enamel? If so, be wary and make sure it doesn’t have a California Prop 65 warning.

  • Is the pan durable? How long will it last? Consider the environment and your pocket book by investing in lifetime pieces as opposed to ones that will end up in the landfill.

Stainless Steel = Safe!

Stainless steel is my top choice for healthy cookware. Not only is it non-toxic, it’s going to last a lifetime. The main concern with stainless steel is clean-ability and the best way to clean your stainless pieces is to use Baking Soda to clean it. Your pans will sparkle like new forever with the right care and maintenance. Also, these pans can become incredibly non-stick with the right oil. My favorite oil to use, specifically when cooking eggs, is coconut oil. Coconut oil creates a nice layer to keep those eggs from sticking to the pan.

Pictured: All-Clad Stainless Steel cookware

Cast Iron and Enameled Cast Iron = Safe!

Cast iron is another great option for cooking! It distributes heat evenly and can be used on both the stove and oven, it’s inexpensive, and when seasoned and maintained properly it is non-stick. It’s best used with non-acidic meals, as the acidity can leach some iron into your food. This can be good or bad depending on your current iron levels. If you’re worried about leaching, enameled cast iron can be a great option as it has all of the same great qualities of cast iron. Pay attention to make sure there’s not a California Prop 65 warning, so you can avoid high levels of lead or cadmium that might be in the glaze and pigmentation of enameled cookware.

Pictured: Lodge cookware

Ceramic Cookware = Safe!

Through body ceramic cookware can be a healthy option as well and works great for many people. Ceramic offers great heat conduction for a nice even cook. Similar to cast iron, it can be used on both the stove and the over. Because it is through-body there is no concern of the coating peeling off over the life of using the product. It does not leach into your food and works well with acidic dishes!

Pictured: Xtrema cookware

Be Cautious of "Green" Cookware and Ceramic Coatings

  • Be wary of companies claiming to be green or “non-toxic”. Alternatives used in replace of the chemicals above don’t always mean “non-toxic”; they might be just as toxic but not have mainstream awareness yet.

  • Ceramic coatings on cookware can wear off easily and only last a couple of years. You may end up buying multiple pans when you could have just invested in one of the high quality options above that will last you a lifetime.

We’re a fan of slowly swapping out our products over time so it’s not as big of an investment to swap to cleaner products for our home. Many of these companies will be having Black Friday sales, so take advantage of those while you can! We wish you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!

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  • Ashley Spanovich
  • Nov, 10, 2021

Stumbling into Sobriety for my Thirty-Fifth Year

A plan. I needed a plan if I was going to at least attempt abstaining from alcohol for any significant length of time.

This is probably a good time to mention that I am not much of a planner, much to my husband’s delight.

The desire to stop drinking was there. The knowing that it was necessary was there. But the how remained elusive.

I am quite sure that I did, in fact, drink again after that fateful morning. The specifics on that are not entirely clear within my memory, whether that is a result of shame or alcohol-induced amnesia is hard to say.

As I ruminated over the idea of leaving alcohol behind, I was faced with the stark realization that nearly all of my social interactions featured alcohol in the leading role. Outside of work and children’s activities, hanging out with friends or date night always involved alcohol.

Was this a problem? I’m not sure. Maybe? Probably. I did not black out every time I drank but I hated stopping after just one.

I hated stopping when I could start to feel that buzz, when I felt my shoulders relax, and when my confidence and lightheartedness started to swing up. I loved that feeling. One especially fond memory is tossing cheeseballs in the mouth in kitchen and having the kids count how many I could make in a row (14, for those wondering).

I was a fun drunk… until I wasn’t.

A memory with a little less sparkle? Probably when my husband and I had a big fight while our family of 5 was on vacation in a cabin by the river (not to be confused with a van down by the river). I was probably 5 White Claws in and his joke didn’t land right. I got angry, there were words, and then I started crying. What was the joke? What were the words? As any good drinker can tell you, alcohol isn’t known to improve your memory. Did I mention that my husband’s older brother was there? Or that when we fought I acted like I was going to up and leave him? Classic Mean Drunk Brandi move.

Eventually, a plan fell into my mind. I would make my 35th year on earth be a year of sobriety. I was going to turn 35 in September of 2019. I felt pretty confident in my abilities to follow through, as I was able to go 40 days alcohol free during the summer of 2018 after a particularly embarrassing evening while out drinking with college friends.

There was still some confusion on how this could work with our social life. How would I interact with neighbors while everyone else was drinking? What about when coworkers met for after work drinks? How would I explain that I am not drinking for awhile? Do I tell them I am nervous I am losing control? Will they judge me when I say that? Probably, I thought. Then what was the alternative? To say nothing? Do I not leave the house?

I decided to wing it. A brilliant plan indeed.

My birthday came and went, with the celebration involving a gluten free strawberry birthday cake instead of champagne or Stella Rosa. I stocked our fridge with carbonated, flavored water and kept alcohol out of reach. I requested my husband not drink in our home for the time being, as I knew that his drinking (in front of me) would make my abstinence more difficult.

A week came and went. The habit started to lessen a bit. I would come home and grab a flavored water instead of a White Claw. I was doing okay without alcohol.

And then we were invited to our next door neighbor’s surprise 40th birthday party, 13 days after I started my year of sobriety. It was at a bar and grill in Sioux Falls, not too far from our house. I liked this neighbor. She was kind and friendly, I wanted to go.

We took family photos that day at dusk in a town an hour away. We missed the “Surprise!” but stopped by the birthday party on our way back. All of our neighbors were there and, as expected, everyone had a drink in hand.

“Do you want a drink?” My neighbor asked, the question I knew was coming.

I looked around and said, “Yeah. I’ll take a cider. Thanks.”

Brandon looked at me, but said nothing about it. He was not entirely sure why I thought I needed to stop drinking for a year… as I had never told him about the aforementioned Margarita Morning. He ordered a Blue Moon, no orange.

I walked around and socialized, drink in hand. I felt dirty. I had broken the promise I had made to myself. But I couldn’t do it. I didn’t know how to be there and not drink. If I didn’t drink, they would all assume I was pregnant again, which I wasn’t. Having them believe that falsehood is certainly not the worst thing that could happen, but… it bothered me. I didn’t want my ‘friends’ to think I was lying when I wasn’t. (opportunity to add message about how many feel the need to be perceived as authentic more than the need to be authentic to self)

I drank most of the cider, leaving a few drinks behind. We left the party and headed home with our 3 kids. I had a mix of feelings. Somewhat proud that I had limited myself to only one, but also somewhat shattered at giving in so early and so easily.

The next day, I started it over again. I just was not going to drink anymore. For a month, I became a bit of shut in. I did not really want to socialize because I was still unsure how to navigate that setting.

A few weeks later, my husband was running a half marathon in Minnesota (rather Nebraska). Our neighbor was also running. We (our neighbor, his wife, my husband, and me) decided to all ride together, the wives in the cheering section while the husbands ran. We had traveled like this before, but that time I had been running as well.

The night before the race, we went out to eat together. My second test. Jess, our neighbor, ordered a Michelob Ultra. My husband ordered a Guinness (?). Jess’s husband, Gerald, never drank before races, so he got a water. I placed my order for a Diet Mountain Dew and proceeded to tell them that I was taking a break from drinking. They were surprised but okay with it.

“I just feel like I need a break. It’s really hard for me to just have one or two, and I was getting nervous that I was losing control.” I explained.

“Yeah. I drink more in the summer, too. But I can usually stop after 1 beer,” said Jess. “You and Tay were drinking quite a bit for a while there,” she added.

“Yeah. I know that now. I don’t know if this is a forever thing, but it feels good to reset.” I responded.

Gerald nodded and said, “I think it’s cool. Good for you.”

The dinner proceeded without further discussion on it. I felt a little more sturdy in my plan.

The next morning, we were up early to drop the men off and then get to the appointed cheering areas. After they crossed the finish line, we chatted for a while. Eventually, we decided to grab something to eat.

We walked around a few different places until the runners found something on the menu that they liked. It was a Sunday during football season in Lincoln, therefore everywhere we went there were football games on the TV and places to sit, drink, and eat.

This time, everyone got a beer but me. Again, it felt a little weird. But maybe a little bad-ass, too? Like I was sticking it to the proverbial man? Ha. Maybe? But I made it, again. With each small victory, I gained a bit more confidence. Felt a bit more sure of myself without the crutch of alcohol.

The next test arrived in the form of a Halloween Party at another neighbor’s house. My friend Tay and her husband loved Halloween. They went all out with decorations, costumes, and awards for best costumes. It was a big deal.

This would be my first time going sober. I was nervous and did not really want to go. I knew that one neighbor in particular would be fairly vocal about my not drinking. To shield the questions, I grabbed my trusty mint Yeti mug and filled it with sparkling water. I then hid more of that water in the cooler holding my husband’s beer. I would pretend to drink. Another fool proof (zero proof) plan.

Until I needed to refill the mug… and failed to morph into my more sassy counterpart, whom we shall refer to as ***.

“Are you not drinking?” the outspoken neighbor asked, loud enough for all to hear.

“Yeah, no. I am taking a little break from drinking.” I responded.

I heard a “Hmph” and saw raised eyebrows as people looked at one another.

“Also, I am not pregnant. For anyone believing that that is the reason.” I added quickly, wanting to leave already.

Silence. Until a whispered, “Yeah, we’ll see.”

I took a deep breath and tried to shake off my anger and the rising discomfort. Why do I feel embarrassed? I asked myself. I’m doing nothing wrong here. Why is this an expectation? Why is it weird to not drink?

Honestly, I could not be too angry. Before deciding to get sober, I would have been the one encouraging everyone else to drink and have a good time. I would have been the one egging people on, thinking I was helping them relax to have a good time.

I went to stand by my husband and laid my head on his shoulder. He was in a red sweatshirt and dressed as Coco. I was in a black cat onesie/costume that matched my daughter’s. She was at home in bed, as were her brothers. We had hired a babysitter. I tried to decide how long I needed to stay in order to not be perceived as rude or bitchy.

That was October 2019 and after that awkward evening I started staying home more. I started missing more of the neighborhood get-togethers. I was feeling a bit lost, but wanted to stay true to myself and my word.

My friend, V, from a few hours away sent me a book called Sober Curious. I was already a few months into my sober experiment by the time this arrived, but Ruby Warrington’s words were like salve to my bruised soul. I felt calmer and understood. Knowing someone else had stumbled through the beginning sobriety was comforting.

I found that the farther I got away from drinking, the easier it was to not drink. After a few weeks, I would have a bad day at work and not even consider drowning that discomfort with alcohol. I would hit a goal (like lead my first group meditation) and not need a drink.

Nacho Cheese Doritos were a common bandaid for emotional pain, but I tried to enjoy those in moderation.

And then the Coronavirus hit. A little less than 6 months into my year long experiment.

Some days, when homeschooling was hard and it was too cold to send the kids outside, I really, really wanted a drink. But I didn’t. I had built up my ability to say no to that societal fix that didn’t really fix anything. And I didn’t want my kids to think I drank because of them. Because they’re kids. And they’re supposed to drive their mother crazy sometimes, right?

It’s been 18 months now without alcohol. My husband has pretty much cut out drinking, too. Some of that is because of me, but he’s seen benefits, too. The hangovers were real and the emotional toll of COVID could have really expedited a drinking problem. So while I may have chosen the hardest time to be sober, it was probably also the best time.

I do not envision alcohol going away. I do not envision everyone getting sober. But I do hope we can all reflect upon why we drink, and how much we drink.

Is it because we’re happy? Or sad? Or lonely?

Is it really helping, or just masking the pain? Or the joy?

I think it’s probably both.

Will I drink alcohol again?

I’m not sure. Maybe, maybe not. I do not really have much desire to drink at this point. I want to fully experience life and remember each and every moment. I have been to some amazing concerts (The Weeknd, Garth Brooks) and can only remember bits and pieces of those events. That feels like such a shame now.

Alas, shame is a worthless emotion. The past cannot be changed and I am excited for my, for our, future.

Cheers to you, with my NA brew!

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  • Brandi Johnson
  • Oct, 07, 2021

Nutrient Dense, Green ‘Detox’ Soup

As soon as the leaves start to change color and there’s a crisp in the air, that only means one thing… It’s soup season!

Soup is a powerful way to get a lot of nutrients into one bowl in a fast and efficient manner. Cook vegetables until tender, blend with bone broth and voila!

Not a fan of raw kale, or greens in general? This soup is the best way to get those nutrients in your body.

This soup is rich in liver-loving vegetables from the kale, cauliflower and leek. These vegetables along with the rich fiber content support your body’s detox pathways.

This is silky smoothy, creamy and totally dairy free soup is the perfect way to welcome soup season. Enjoy!

Tag @kindpublishingco and @alannadesalvonutrition on Instagram when you make it.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons ghee
2 yukon potatoes 1” cubes
1 leek sliced
1 cauliflower small
3 yellow or orange bell peppers roughly chopped
2 bunches dino kale sliced
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup basil packed
3 tablespoons lemon juice
4 ½ cups chicken bone broth
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup pumpkin seeds

Directions

  1. Trim the leaves off the bottom of the cauliflower then slice the whole cauliflower into 4-6 large wedges.
  2. Heat ghee in a large heavy bottomed pot over medium heat. Add potatoes and cauliflower to the pot and cook until the sides are deeply browned, about 8 minutes.
  3. Add leeks and bell pepper, stir and cover the pot. Continue to cook until cauliflower is browned and potatoes are cooked through and can be easily pierced with a knife, about 5-8 minutes.
  4. Add kale, sea salt, black pepper and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes then turn off the heat.
  5. Add basil, lemon juice, 1 cup of broth, and the cooked vegetables to a high speed blender. Blend until silky smooth.
  6. Return blended soup to the pot and stir in the remaining broth until homogenous. Turn heat to low and bring to a simmer. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and pumpkin seeds.
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  • Alanna DeSalvo
  • Oct, 02, 2021

The Benefits of Alternative Healing

Have you or someone in your family experienced anxiety or depression? Do you feel sad or anxious despite prescription antidepressants and tranquilizers? Would you be interested in a more natural or holistic treatment option? Do you feel ready to get to the cause of your health problems? A holistic approach to healing looks into the complex nature of conditions such as addiction, anxiety, and depression, using a variety of alternative techniques that focus on both the mind and body.

As humanity continues to evolve, the search for holistic and alternative approaches to enhance health and well-being has infused every aspect of our culture and society. We are witnessing a remarkable renewal of interest in alternative healing techniques. For instance, according to a UCLA study, more than 60 U.S. hospitals have adopted Reiki as part of their patient services, as Reiki sessions cause patients to heal faster and with less pain. Alternative medicine is gaining acceptance as a meaningful and cost-effective way to improve patient care.

It is the nature of life to continually reach for more transformative solutions to the endless challenges that arise. In our modern, information age, everyone has access to an enormous amount of facts, data, and opinions on any subject of interest. People facing challenges with their physical, mental, or emotional health are no longer depending solely upon their physicians for advice on the management of their illness.

Whether or not you have a healthcare background, you have unprecedented access and opportunities to learn about your body. Through the Internet, books, journals, newsletters, and support groups, more and more people are formulating their own view of their illness and how they want to approach it. Individuals are no longer passive and as patient about their healing process as they once were. There is a powerful movement of self-empowerment in the world today that originates from the 1960s mindset of challenging authority.

What Is Alternative Healing?

The term “alternative therapy” refers to any health treatment not standard in Western medical practice. When used alongside standard medical practices, alternative approaches are commonly referred to by medical practitioners as “complementary” medicine.

Alternative treatments combined with conventional Western medicine help to provide supportive and life-changing opportunities for people who are sensitive to medications, or cannot afford big expensive surgeries. More than that, alternative treatments focus on prevention and treating underlying problems, not just their symptoms. Even Western medical practitioners are starting to suggest natural alternative treatments as well.

To better understand alternative healing and what it encompasses, it is best to know some of the key categories of the various treatments. They include the following:

Energy Healing

This involves the use of energy to heal the body by energizing its cells, and is based upon the theory that energy flows into, through, and then out of the human body through several energy centers known as chakras. The goal with this therapy is to create a balance of energy within the individual in order to reduce anxiety and pain and induce healing on every aspect of the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional bodies. Some examples might be Reiki, Theta Healing, Marconics, and Reconnective Healing.

Natural Products and Remedies

This involves the use of plant-based or natural materials to cure individuals of specific ailments, or to prevent the ailments from occurring in the first place. The most common and popular variations are Aromatherapy through essential oils and herbal remedies through Herbalism, Ayurvedic medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, and Naturopathy.

Mind and Body Practices

These involve the psychological, behavioral, social, and spiritual approaches to intervention or treatment of an individual. These are spiritual practices in order to manifest wisdom, compassion, authentic wellness, and gratitude for the benefit of all beings. The most well-known examples are yoga, and the practices of Insight Meditation (Vipassana) and loving-kindness meditation (metta), mindfulness (conscious awareness), and Breathwork.

Body-Based Therapy

This category focuses on movement and physical touch to relieve individuals from sickness, soreness, or pain. Massage therapy, Acupressure, Rolfing, Percussion Therapy and Chiropractic care are often used to help address imbalances in the body.

Alternative Medicine Techniques

These are entire systems of theory, study and practice that typically cover the non-Western medical approach or the non-conventional therapeutic approach, such as Acupuncture, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique (QHHT), and Past Life Regression Therapy.

Using Alternative Approaches to Healing

There are many variations of alternative healing modalities. Researchers continue to examine their combined benefits for a variety of patients and conditions, including cancer.

Because alternative healing techniques work with the body’s natural self-healing capabilities, it actually enhances biological healing to speed up the recovery process. It also means that the body’s own internal environment is maintained during recovery rather than damaged (sometimes permanently), which doctors say antibiotics do to the body. In the case of Western antibiotics, the individual often feels “off” in their stomach after dealing with the healing that antibiotics cause. It turns out that their stomach then has to heal as well.

With alternative remedies, the body’s natural state is maintained and not depleted, which would normally require a time of rebuilding after the treatment is administered. Alternative healing modalities aim to repair and strengthen the body by giving it what it needs to fight back.

What many people do not know is that alternative therapies are powerful enough to stimulate glands to re-balance hormones by re-initiating hormone production. Hormones play an enormous role in signaling the body to increase or reduce biological processes.

People can have allergies to anything, especially medications, food, and even herbal remedies. Yet there are generally fewer problems with alternative practices than with pharmaceuticals because ingesting the man-made substances are not part of the experience, and therefore it is easier for the body to heal. Alternative remedies means that there is little potential for side-effects and allergies. These techniques do work as the body is meant to operate, and that is where alternative healing has advantages over Western medicine.

A Focus on Prevention

Western medicine is primarily focused on managing symptoms once they appear. Alternative healing aims to treat the root cause of a condition so your body can get back to doing its natural processes automatically—and, in many instances, can help as a preventative. The philosophy behind alternative healing is rooted in balance and equilibrium.

Conventional medicine usually comes into play once a person becomes sick, as Western medicine was developed to address acute symptoms and trauma. However, alternative healing techniques are designed to keep your illness from occurring.

There are practitioners that treat patients with a blend of Western medicine and alternative healing, which can give the patient a well-rounded and educational experience.

Individualized Attention

Again, alternative healing modalities are centered around whole-body care, which means holistic practitioners give more attention to their patients. As you may know, physical pain can also affect a person emotionally. It’s important for that aspect of treatment to be addressed as well. With alternative practices, if a person has a serious condition, the practitioner will focus on everything.

Many traditional doctors have too many patients, not enough time, and are primarily focused on insurance payments. On the contrary, an alternative practitioner will provide more personal time with individuals and have different payment structures to be supportive of individual needs.

Enhances Your Quality of Life

Western medicine works well for getting rid of pain at the moment, but once it subsides, the pain returns. Alternative therapies aim to ensure the source of the pain is addressed. Therefore, you’re not living your life relying on medication or going through a rollercoaster of feeling well and not feeling well.

Alternative healing techniques provide reassurance and make a person feel better about their treatment. If you know something is good, then you feel confident about it. Recipients of alternative healing techniques know they will be completely cared for and treated properly.

You only get one body, and it’s essential you treat it right. When it comes to your long-term health, alternative healing techniques can be the difference between managing your symptoms or eliminating your symptoms altogether (without side-effects) so you can get back to your normal life.

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  • Andrea Firpo
  • Sep, 22, 2021

The Margarita Morning

I stood at the kitchen sink with a mint-green Yeti mug in my hand. I had intended to pour out the remnants found within, but found myself frozen in an unfamiliar, uncomfortable situation. I was internally fighting the urge to drink it.

‘It’ being a leftover margarita from the night before.

Did I mention that it was also 8:30 in the morning?

Good moms don’t drink alcohol at 8:30 in the morning, I told myself. Especially when there are zero plans for any kind of neighborhood festivities or parades or any other normal excuse for drinking.

Another part of myself whispered silently, But it smells good and it tastes good. Plus, I am so fun when I drink! The kids will probably like me more if I drink this.

The pull is strong. I can almost feel my shoulders relax with the thought of drinking it.

And no one would have to know…

Nope, Brandi, don’t drink this, my rational mind again urges. Alcoholics drink secret margaritas at 8:30 in the morning on a seemingly normal Sunday. You are not an alcoholic.

I inhaled sharply at that last statement.

Was I an alcoholic? This situation certainly did not seem to bode well for my future with alcohol.

I pieced together the previous evening. My husband and I had been drinking at our neighbor’s house. I had taken our three children over there before my husband, Brandon, had gotten home from work. I was half tuned-up by the time he arrived.

I continued to drink after he got there. My friend, Tay, and I always had a great time talking about life and found countless reasons to laugh. It had been a fun evening. I probably had had at least 4 margaritas and 2 or 3 White Claws in total.

I think I had supported myself with the stroller as we walked home. Our sons were 7 and 5, our daughter was 2. I had asked my husband to carry our daughter upstairs while I fumbled through the boys’ bedtime routine. Quick snack and vitamins, brush teeth and bed. Then tried not to pass out on the floor of their room.

I had woken up in bed that morning, not entirely sure of how I had gotten down the stairs. Things were hazy and my head had been hurting but I was, embarrassingly, surprised I did not feel worse.

Looking further back, I realized I had been buzzed, if not drunk, at least three other days that week. I worked part time and had started drinking on the evenings before my days off. We typically drank with our neighbors every weekend, one or two nights. Four houses took turns hosting, the kids would play while the adults would drink.

It was not uncommon for me to black out a couple times per month, but at the time it did not seem like a big deal. Sometimes one of our neighbors would puke after a get-together. I had not puked in years. Although maybe it would have prevented some of the brutal hangovers I had been experiencing, I thought.

Am I an alcoholic? I wondered again, concerned. Maybe I can just drink one or two instead of 5, or 6, or more.

Now you’re lying to yourself. You know you can never stop after one or two, the snarky inner voice reminded me.

“Hey, what are you doing?” My husband asked, pulling me back to the present moment.

I dumped out the margarita before I could change my mind.

“Just doing some dishes,” I replied, keeping that internal assessment to myself.

“Okay, we should be leaving soon.” He responded.

I looked at him in confusion.

“Rome’s football game.”

“Oh, right. Okay. I’ll finish this and get ready.” I said and smiled at him

Thank God I had poured that margarita out, I thought. It was Saturday. I did not need to be buzzing at my kid’s football game on a Saturday at 9am.

After the frenzy of getting the whole family ready and loaded in the minivan, we took the short drive to the field. My dad was meeting us there. My mom was out of town.

My dad is what I consider a functional alcoholic. For as long as I could remember, he drank every day. The only exception had been when he was on parole for one of his DUIs when I was in high school. I figured if anyone could understand what had happened that morning, it would be him.

My son was only 7, which meant he played flag football. There were no bleachers around the fields, so the spectators were spread out on the sidelines. With my husband coaching and my two younger kids running around on an open field, I took a deep breath and started the conversation that I had been both dreading and looking forward to. Maybe this would make me feel better. Maybe he would tell me it was fine, that I was fine, and that I didn’t need to worry.

“Dad,” I said.

He looked up and furrowed his brow when he noticed the serious tone, “Yeah, honey.”

“So. I know you have had some issues with alcohol. But do you feel like you can control it?”

His eyes opened a little wider. I had surprised him with the topic.

He answered with a question, “What do you mean?”

I explained what had happened that morning with the leftover margarita, how difficult it had been to fight the urge to drink it.

He tried to hide his shock. “Whoa.” He paused. “No. I have never had that happen.”

“Oh.” I said, feeling ashamed and stunned. “I guess I need to be careful then.”

“I guess so,” he replied and turned his eyes back to the football field.

Shit, I thought. That certainly did not go how I thought it was going to. I had come to him looking for wisdom and all I did was freak him out. Shit.

Now I knew. I was losing control of drinking, or perhaps had already lost control. I was worried about the impact I could be having on my kids now that they were older and observing my slurred speech and occasional stumbling. I had some less than glamorous memories of my dad’s drinking as a child, and as an adult.

I wanted to change this path I was on but how could I do that? And was I strong enough to change when I lived in a neighborhood that bonded over alcohol? I wondered.

Probably, but I would need a plan. And some backbone to see it through.

Read the follow up article here.

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  • Brandi Johnson
  • Sep, 16, 2021

Grilled Salmon with Seasonal Salad & a Fresh Basil Vinaigrette

It’s true, you can usually find an array of ingredients all year round, but a seasonal recipe means you’re using ingredients when they’re naturally at their peak. When you practice eating in season the ingredients are more flavorful and more nutritious! And this salad is a celebration of summer in a bowl!

Nobody likes a boring salad. When making your own, look to combine crunchy, smooth, salty, spicy, herby, acidic and sweet flavors and textures that keeps you going back for more.

Enjoy this salad as a celebration of the season and the bounty of fresh produce. This recipe is typically in season between July-September.

Ingredients

Salad:
1 large butter lettuce, or 2 little gem lettuces
1 ½ cups chopped heirloom tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes, halved
1 ear of fresh corn, shucked
1 peach, diced
1 avocado, diced
1 english cucumber, thinly sliced

1 lb salmon filets
1 tablespoon avocado oil
Sea salt

Dressing:
1 cup (1 bunch) basil, packed
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 ½ tablespoons champagne vinegar
1 – 2 cloves garlic
1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

Directions:

1. Prepare all salad components, including cutting the fresh kernels off the corn cob, and add to a large serving bowl.
2. Prepare a grill, grill pan, or cast iron pan to cook your salmon. Prepare your cooking surface to a medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly grease the surface with avocado oil. Drizzle the remainder of the oil over the flesh of the salmon and season with a pinch of sea salt.
3. Place the salmon onto your cooking surface, flesh side down, and cook for 2-4 minutes. When the flesh of the salmon is opaque and the fish is able to gently release from the grates/pan, flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it is cooked to your liking. It is done when the outside appears fully opaque and a tip of a knife can pierce the salmon without resistance. Remove salmon from the heat and place on a plate.
4. While the salmon is cooking, add all dressing ingredients to a blender and puree until completely smooth.
5. Toss the salad with the dressing, leaving 1 tablespoon aside. Once the salad is fully tossed, place the salmon on top and drizzle the remaining dressing over the top.
6. Season with more salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

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  • Alanna DeSalvo
  • Sep, 06, 2021

Spiced Apple Faux-Oat-Meal

The crisp morning air means fall is in the air and this No-Oat-Meal is the best introduction to fall.

It’s basically a high fiber, low-carb version of oatmeal that’s grain-free, paleo, and plant-based.

Oatmeal is a common breakfast but, for many people it can be a trigger that irritates digestion or spikes blood sugar leaving them hungry a few hours later and reaching for a pick me up.

This recipe is loaded with healthy fats and fiber to stabilize blood sugar and keep you full and satisfied for hours. And because it’s grain-free it’ll cut down on the inflammatory properties that can leave you feeling bloated or gassy.

You’ll be surprised how much the texture resembles oatmeal. Give it a try–I know you’ll love it!

Tag @kindpublishingco and @alannadesalvonutrition on Instagram when you make it.

Ingredients

1 green apple*
1/2 cup canned coconut milk + 1/2 cup water or 1 cup almond milk
3 tablespoons chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons almond flour
1 tablespoon flaxseed
1 tablespoon chia seed
1 tablespoon hemp seed optional
1 serving collagen powder or protein of choice
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

* I like using Honeycrisp apples or something more firm and crisp. Granny Smith will also work well. You can also use 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce instead but it will be more like porridge instead of oatmeal.

Directions

Core the apple and cut it in 4-6 wedges. Put it in a high powered blender or food processor and pulse to shred the apple into pea sized slices . You can also finely dice with a knife.
Add coconut milk and water to a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil.
While the milk is heating, combine everything else in a small bowl.
Once the milk has come to a boil add everything to the pot and stir constantly to thicken to an oatmeal consistency, about 1-2 minutes. If it’s too thick for your preference add more milk, if it’s too thin, add an extra tablespoon of almond flour or 1/4 teaspoon of chia seeds.
Scoop it into a bowl and enjoy!

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  • Alanna DeSalvo
  • Aug, 06, 2021

Lemon Blackberry Smoothie

Plump blackberries in peak season are my absolute favorite! I could eat them by the bucketful! But the combo of lemon, blackberries and yogurt wonderfully round out this tasty and healthy smoothie.

Blackberries are filled…

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  • Alanna DeSalvo
  • Jul, 08, 2021

Rested, Happy, and Healthy: Why Sleep is Vital for Your Special Needs Family

As a coach for special needs families, I sing the praises of, and teach the importance of, a good night’s sleep for parents and children alike. Over the last 12 years, I’ve seen just how transformative getting quality rest can be in a matter of weeks. Below are a few reasons why sleep should be a priority for the health of you and your family.

Why Sleep Should Be a Priority for the Entire Family

Sleep Boosts Your Mood

When you’ve gotten your required 7-9 hours of sleep at night, chances are that you wake up feeling rested, calmer, and generally in a better mood. You’ll notice, after a few sleepless nights, how your mood and behavior can plummet—fast. A study from the University of Pennsylvania found that participants who were limited to 4.5 hours of sleep for a week reported feeling much more stressed out, sad, and short tempered.

4.5 hours a night is the average my special needs parents are getting before sleep training. Seriously.

Special needs parents go through a lot of trauma from day one of their child’s life and have to constantly fight for their child to get the help they need. Poor sleep can aggravate feelings of anxiety, depression, and more. To be able to put on your armor and hold your shield and sword, you must have a chance to recuperate.

For children with disabilities, not only are they more prone to temper tantrums and meltdowns, they’re in a constant state of “fight or flight”—highly stressed and not able to regulate themselves. This overtiredness makes it nearly impossible for them to be successful at school or in therapy. Parents often have to call off sessions and just drive back home. Their child is just too tired.

With even one extra hour each night you can feel lighter and help your child to thrive in all areas of their life.

Sleep is Essential for Brain Growth and Development

The brain is the command center that controls everything that we do—our movements, thoughts, bodily functions, hormone regulation, and more. For children with special needs, the brain has not made certain changes or connections which have caused delays in speech, mobility, emotional regulation, and more. Making sure that your child is getting adequate sleep is crucial for them to process the information they learn from the day and to make the milestones they need. While we sleep, the brain is working overtime to organize and do some sprucing up so that you can start the next day with a clean slate. The more opportunity that your child has to rest, new abilities develop or get stronger and the brain is much more organized.

Don’t forget—the adult brain is already formed, but still making changes. Our adult brains go through the same process each night, too. Sleep is an incredible tool to help boost memory, reaction time, and more!

 
 
Sleep Opens the Door for Independence

Chances are, you’ve been told by numerous people that your child “will not…”, “won’t be able to…”, “can’t learn to…”, the list goes on. This can shake the confidence of the strongest people. How disempowering it is to hear that over and over, child and parent alike! And when you’ve only been suggested medication and melatonin to help your child sleep it can feel like you’re out of options. But, teaching your child to sleep well and on their own opens the door to independence in other areas of life. Often, parents will tell me that once their child is sleeping well they have the confidence to pursue other things like potty training, new therapies, and more. Teaching a child to sleep well can be done at any age, any level of ability. This is simply because all kids with special needs have the potential—they just need to be given the chance and a path to win!

For parents, when your confidence has been knocked so many times by the “professionals,” you have all the glory, and all the rights to gloat for teaching your child the incredible life skill of sleeping well. How awesome is that? You deserve every opportunity to stand taller, tie that cape tighter, and be the awesome super parent that you are.

The demands on the special needs family are unique—and there’s just that much more that parents need to stay on top of. Day in day out, your child is seeing numerous specialists, doctors, therapists, and more. They’re doing hours of ABA each week, physical therapy intensives, feeding therapies. It’s exhausting work! Allowing your child the chance to learn how to sleep well, and to give yourself permission to prioritize your sleep. It is crucial for your family to thrive.

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  • Melissa Doman
  • Jul, 01, 2021
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