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Health x Body Wellbeing

Psoriasis Treatments: A Guide To Natural And Mainstream Options

Something that looks like a rash might not seem like cause for alarm, but psoriasis is a chronic disease that needs to be diagnosed by a medical professional. Although there is currently no cure for psoriasis, there are a number of conventional and at-home psoriasis treatments out there that can make living with the disease a little easier.
“Psoriasis is a genetic, autoimmune, inflammatory condition, in which your skin cells divide too quickly and do not shed quickly enough, creating inflamed, itchy, thick, white, scaly plaques, most classically on the scalp, elbows, and knees,” says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, and a clinical instructor at the University of Southern California.
Psoriasis is a chronic disease, and while it can’t be cured, it can be managed. “Psoriasis is a lifelong disease that can wax and wane but usually does not resolve completely or forever,” says Shainhouse. “Many of our newer medications are able to achieve a 90 to 100 percent skin clearance while [the person is] on the medication, but it is not a cure.”
Fortunately, thanks to a number of psoriasis treatments, the symptoms can be managed. Here’s what you need to know about treating psoriasis.

What causes psoriasis?

“The causes of psoriasis are not completely understood, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease, which means that your body’s defense—your immune system—is overactive and actually working against itself,” says Jeanette Jacknin MD, a holistic dermatologist specializing in topical cannabinoids for skin disorders. “One-third of psoriasis patients have a family history of the disease, so there also appears to be a genetic component for the disease.”
Even if you are genetically predisposed to carry psoriasis, you might or might not get it. There are often certain factors trigger the psoriasis, Shainhouse says. These triggers might cause the first outbreak or aggravate the existing symptoms of your psoriasis.
Stress is another potential trigger, according to the scientific research. Jacknin mentions that severe stress often precedes the first emergence of psoriasis and 70 percent of flare-ups.
Other potential triggers include skin infections and injuries to the skin, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Even a small pinprick can trigger or aggravate psoriasis, a reaction called the Koebner phenomenon. The Koebner phenomenon could also trigger psoriatic arthritis (more on that later).
In addition to having a number of triggers, there are a number of different types of psoriasis, categorized by where and how they appear on the body.

Types of Psoriasis

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis is characterized by a “sudden eruption of small, pink, scaly spots all over the trunk,” Shainhouse says, adding that the “trigger” for guttate psoriasis is often strep throat: “for some reason, the body recognizes strep antigen as psoriasis and turns it on.”

Plaque Psoriasis

Also known as psoriasis vulgaris, plaque psoriasis is the most common type, accounting for 80 percent to 90 percent of psoriasis cases. The American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD) notes that plaque psoriasis is accompanied by a scaly, silver, thin layer covering the skin and a thick buildup of plaque, usually on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.

Inverse Psoriasis

Most commonly found in the underarms or groin, Shainhouse says, inverse psoriasis occurs where hair touches skin. Skin will appear raw and it will feel swollen and sensitive.

Pustular Psoriasis

Commonly appearing on the hands and feet, pustular psoriasis includes the development of pus-filled bumps accompanied by red, swollen skin, according to the AAD. This type of psoriasis can be extremely painful.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

A rare but serious and life-threatening form of psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis involves large patches of red, raw-looking skin covering the body. This is accompanied by chills, a fever, and flu-like symptoms. This is usually developed by people who have another kind of psoriasis.

Generalized Pustular Psoriasis

When pus-filled bumps and scales appear all over the body and not just on the hands and feet, it could be generalized pustular psoriasis. Again, this is a rare but life-threatening form of psoriasis. It’s often accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

Nail Psoriasis

Nail psoriasis is frequently accompanied by discoloration of the nails, tiny dents or pits in your nails, and blood or build-up in the nail bed, according to the AAD. The nails might come away from the skin.

Conventional Psoriasis Treatments

If you have psoriasis, it’s most likely plaque psoriasis, which is manageable. But it’s important to keep an eye out for any symptoms of the more serious forms of psoriasis described above. The psoriasis treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider will depend on the type of psoriasis you’re experiencing.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Once you understand your skin disease and know which treatments work for you, you can treat flares at home as needed and see your dermatologist when you need help.”
—Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, FAAD[/pullquote]
If you have a flaky, itchy rash that doesn’t go away, contact a medical professional, says. “You should see a dermatologist to discuss treatment options and long-term management,” she advises. “Once you understand your skin disease and know which treatments work for you, you can treat flares at home as needed and see your dermatologist when you need help.”
“Depending on the severity of your skin and whether or not you have systemic symptoms, including psoriatic arthritis, your doctor will prescribe topical treatments or even oral or injectable medications,” Shainhouse explains.
Shainhouse says that there are a number of topical psoriasis treatments. You might be prescribed a vitamin D analogue topical cream, which slows down the production of new skin cells so that a thick scale won’t build up on your skin. Another option is a topical steroid or a topical tar, which helps to calm the inflammation, redness, and itch. A retinoid might also be prescribed; this helps to normalize cell division so that old cells can shed instead of building up.
Oral medications are usually prescribed for moderate to severe cases of psoriasis. “Oral medications reduce inflammation, reduce the immune response, and/or regulate skin cell production,” Shainhouse notes.
In the last decade, biologics (injectable medications) have become a popular psoriasis treatment. “A biologic is a protein-based drug that blocks the action of a specific type of immune cell (called a T cell) or blocks proteins in the immune system,” Jacknin says. “Patients on biologics have to be monitored closely for side effects.”
Keep in mind that the psoriasis treatment that is prescribed for you depends on the nature and severity of your symptoms and that it’s best to see a dermatologist about psoriasis to receive the necessary medication. With that being said, certain natural or at-home remedies can help with your psoriasis treatment.

Natural Psoriasis Treatments and Lifestyle Changes

Get a little sun.

Soaking up the sun—in moderation—might help with your psoriasis symptoms. “UV light is generally a no-no in dermatology, since we know that too much can be associated with the development of skin cancer and melanoma,” Shainhouse says. “However, it has an anti-inflammatory effect in psoriatic skin and is a very useful option for reducing skin disease/symptoms.”

Keep your skin from drying out.

Dry skin can aggravate the symptoms and discomfort associated with psoriasis. You can prevent dry skin by staying hydrated, avoiding very hot showers or baths, and using an air humidifier. Dry air dries your skin out, and an air humidifier helps to counter that issue.
Moisturizing regularly is also important—just ensure that your moisturizer is free of fragrance, as fragrance might irritate the skin more. Many people swear by using moisturizers containing Oregon grape for psoriasis. Also known as mahonia aquifolium, Oregon grape has been proven to be an effective and helpful moisturizer for people with psoriasis.
Another great moisturizing agent is aloe vera, Jacknin says. “Research shows aloe vera can help reduce the redness and scaling of psoriasis,” she says. Moisturizers containing 0.5 percent aloe are your best bet.
[related article_ids=1007068]

Soak in a tub.

Although psoriasis is itchy, scratching is a bad idea, as it can exacerbate the problem. “Rubbing and picking at the skin will actually worsen the spots,” Shainhouse says. “Psoriasis tends to develop in sites of skin trauma, including cuts and scratches.”
Instead, you’ll want to relieve the itchiness in another way. The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends a number of natural treatments for itchiness. This includes soaking in the tub with a natural remedy such as oats. If you’re not keen on letting the oats float in your bathwater, put some in a clean sock or a small sachet, tie it closed, and let it soak in your bath.
A bath with Dead Sea salts or Epsom salts might also help relieve itchy skin, Jacknin says. It’s best to moisturize just after getting out of the tub to avoid drying your skin out, she adds.
Rinsing with apple cider vinegar can help reduce itchiness on your scalp, but avoid it if you have any open wounds.

Invest in CBD oil.

Plants related to the cannabis genus—including hemp and what we refer to as cannabis—contain cannabinoids, which have a range of health benefits. “Recent studies have suggested that cannabinoids may treat psoriasis by interfering in many of the inflammatory and immune pathways that exacerbate or trigger psoriasis,” Jacknin notes. She points to research that suggests cannabinoids may slow the development of skin cells called keratinocytes, which lead to psoriasis symptoms.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Based on the research, I believe that the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD can dramatically improve symptoms for many patients with psoriasis.”
—Jeanette Jacknin MD[/pullquote]
Cannabidiol (CBD), a type of cannabinoid, is particularly helpful for people with psoriasis, Jacknin says. This is because it has anti-inflammatory properties. “Based on the research, I believe that the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD can dramatically improve symptoms for many patients with psoriasis,” Jacknin says.
CBD comes in the form of ingestible oils and tinctures, which can be consumed orally, or in topical treatments. Hemp-derived CBD is legal throughout the United States. Jacknin suggests using third party–tested CBD oil derived from U.S.-grown hemp, such as MedTerra CBD oil.

Avoid alcohol and smoking cigarettes.

Research shows that drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes can aggravate psoriasis symptoms, so it’s best to avoid both alcohol and cigarettes.

Eat anti-inflammatory foods.

Certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties, and stocking up on these anti-inflammatory foods can help treat psoriasis. Anti-inflammatory foods include kale, ginger, sardines, and beets. Jacknin strongly recommends integrating turmeric into your diet: Eat it in your food or have some in pill form.
Some people have an inflammatory reaction to dairy, so consider avoiding dairy products and monitor whether your symptoms improve.
Remember that these remedies and lifestyle changes should complement your prescribed psoriasis treatment, not replace it. In other words, while there are measures you can take at home to reduce your psoriasis symptoms, it should primarily be treated by a healthcare professional.

Diseases Related to Psoriasis

Psoriasis is more than just skin deep—which is why you need to see a healthcare professional if you suspect you have it. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, up to 30 percent of people with psoriasis are at risk for developing psoriatic arthritis, a kind of inflammatory arthritis that could cause permanent joint damage if left untreated for too long. If you have psoriasis, be on the lookout for sore, stiff, and swollen joints, as this symptom could be caused by psoriatic arthritis.
After being diagnosed with psoriasis by a dermatologist, you might have to be tested for these related diseases. Shainhouse says that a rheumatologist could address issues with psoriatic arthritis. “There should be communication and joint patient care with the primary care practitioner, because there are medical conditions that must be screened for and monitored in patients with psoriasis,” she adds.
If you have psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, you’re at greater risk for certain diseases. Studies have suggested that people with psoriasis are more likely to develop cancer, cardiovascular diseases, depression and anxiety, metabolic syndrome, liver disease, and inflammatory bowel disease, among other conditions. The reason that psoriasis is linked to those diseases isn’t fully understood, although it’s thought to be because of the chronic inflammation and compromised immune system associated with autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis.
Living with psoriasis isn’t easy, but a combination of the right medication and positive lifestyle changes can greatly improve the symptoms. Consult a dermatologist before pursuing any home remedies or natural psoriasis treatments, as psoriasis could be indicative of another serious disease or medical condition.

Categories
In the Kitchen Nosh

5 Healthy Salad Dressings To Kick-Start Summer Salad Season

Eating your greens is so much easier when they’ve been tossed with a delicious, healthy salad dressing. Although it can be tempting to grab your favorite bottled dressing in a pinch, chances are good that it’s filled with outrageous amounts of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats or that you’ll go over the recommended serving size.
The following healthy salad dressing recipes contain nutritious, easy-to-find ingredients such as extra-virgin olive oil, Greek yogurt, fresh garlic, and avocados to kick your salad game up a notch. Making your own healthy salad dressings at home doesn’t require any special equipment (except a blender or food processor, in some cases).
If you can follow a recipe and measure out a few basic ingredients, you’ll be concocting your own dressings and vinaigrettes in no time.

Healthy salad dressings (and salads) begin with quality ingredients.

A salad is only as good as the ingredients it’s made from, and that goes for salad dressings and vinaigrettes too.
Michele Anna Jordan, salad maven and author of Vinaigrettes and Other Dressings: 60 Sensational Recipes to Liven Up Greens, Grains, Slaws, and Every Kind of Salad shares her advice on crafting the perfect simple salad:

Let’s take the simplest green salad. First, I use the best greens I possibly can, and here in Sonoma County I have so many options. I like a mix of crisp lettuces, fresh herbs (Italian parsley, sorrel, thyme) and then season them with kosher salt. Next comes good olive oil, followed by a bit of acid (vinegar or citrus). Sometimes I’ll add a secondary dressing to this, typically something like fresh grapefruit juice, ground cardamom, salt, pepper and olive oil. People who try this call it the best salad they’ve ever had, but it all begins with fabulous greens.

She also cautions against using cheap, imitation ingredients, particularly balsamic vinegar. “I should add that I am not a fan of balsamic vinegar on everything. The cheap versions (which are not the real thing) are full of sugar and I rarely like to combine savory and sweet flavors. I think for the most part, balsamic vinegar degrades a dish,” she explains.
When it comes to oils and vinegars used in salad dressings or vinaigrettes, it’s best to buy the highest quality that you can afford and then use sparingly. Look for extra-virgin oil whenever possible (this means the oil has been extracted from the first pressing) and vinegar without added sugar or caramel coloring so that their flavors truly shine through in the salad.

A Few Basic Healthy Salad Dressing Tips Before You Get Started

Store homemade salad dressing in a covered container in the fridge or freezer (like these adorable YINGGG Squeezy Portable Salad Dressing Bottles or OXO’s classic Salad Dressing Shaker and Dispenser), and always give the dressing a good shake before using. Make sure you get in the habit of tasting as you cook, as you might need to make seasoning adjustments or you might get inspired to experiment with unconventional (but still super-tasty) ingredients.
Jordan is a big fan of unexpected salad dressing ingredients: “I think fresh grapefruit juice surprises people, as do either cardamom pods and ground cardamom. I typically keep a bottle of apple cider vinegar with cardamom pods in my pantry. Lots of flavor, no calories or very few, and so very simple.”
The most important thing to keep in mind when you’re making homemade salad dressings? It’s all about experimenting with ingredients to find the right balance; keep tasting the salad dressing until you find the correct ratio and the exact flavor you’re looking for.
Now that you’re ready to take on summer salad season, here are some healthier salad dressing recipes to get you started.  

5 Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes to Pair With Your Favorite Greens

Basic Oil and Vinegar Dressing

From organic microgreens to bagged iceberg lettuce, this basic oil and vinegar dressing brightens up any green salad it touches.
Made with extra-virgin olive oil, which has been linked to a reduction in cardiovascular disease for high-risk individuals, this dressing will keep in the fridge for several months. So feel free to double (or even triple!) the recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp. white sugar (optional)
  • ½ tsp. kosher salt
  • ½ tsp. freshly cracked black pepper
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Special equipment:

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Blender (or a small mixing bowl and whisk if not using a blender)

Method:

  1. Add all of the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper to a blender or small mixing bowl. Blitz or whisk to combine.
  2. Remove the feeder cap from the blender lid and slowly add the olive oil to the red wine vinegar mixture (or simply add to the salad dressing in the bowl), blending or whisking until the dressing has completely emulsified.
  3. Taste the salad dressing and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

Lemon Basil Vinaigrette

Use this versatile lemon basil vinaigrette on bean salads, pasta salads, as a dip for steamed artichoke leaves, or in salade Niçoise. Garlic-lovers will enjoy the punchy flavor a clove of garlic (or three!) adds to this recipe, especially considering the fact that garlic has long been recognized for its anti-microbial effects on potentially harmful bacteria in the body.
This dressing will keep in the fridge for up to four days (but fair warning: The garlic grows increasingly pungent over time).

Ingredients:

  • Juice of half a lemon (about 2 Tbsp. of lemon juice)
  • 1 Tbsp. sherry vinegar
  • 1½ cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves, stems removed
  • 1–3 cloves of garlic (use 1 clove of garlic if you plan on storing this dressing for more than a day)
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ tsp. kosher salt
  • ½ tsp. freshly cracked black pepper

Special equipment:

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Blender

Method:

  1. Add the lemon juice, sherry vinegar, fresh basil leaves, garlic, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blitz until roughly combined
  2. With the blender running, remove the feeder cap and carefully pour the extra-virgin olive oil through the hole. Blend until the ingredients are completely emulsified.
  3. Taste the salad dressing and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

Creamy Ranch-Style Greek Yogurt Salad Dressing

If you’re a fan of ranch dressing but are less than thrilled by its fat content, this recipe is for you! Using plain low fat Greek yogurt in lieu of most of the mayo adds protein and calcium while still giving plenty of creamy texture to the dressing.
Despite its misleading name, buttermilk (which is partly responsible for ranch dressing’s tangy flavor) is low in fat, and if you have leftover buttermilk it can be frozen in ice cube trays and used in smoothies and other recipes calling for buttermilk.
This recipe will keep in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a quick stir before serving over a green salad, with coleslaw, or as a vegetable dip.

Ingredients:

Special equipment:

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Medium-sized mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method:

  1. Add all of the ingredients, except for the buttermilk, to a mixing bowl and whisk to combine.
  2. Slowly add the buttermilk, beginning with ⅓ of a cup, to the rest of the ingredients. Keep whisking and adding buttermilk until you reach the correct consistency (pourable but still thick and creamy). Add less buttermilk if you wish to use this recipe as a dip.

Ginger–Tamari Salad Dressing

Use this brightly flavored salad dressing on Asian-inspired slaws, lightly steamed snap peas or edamame, or on cold soba or rice noodle salads. The proven health benefits of ginger are numerous, although it’s especially known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties (particularly in cases where the use of drugs isn’t advisable, such as during pregnancy or chemotherapy treatment).
Deeply flavorful and darker in color than soy sauce, tamari is a Japanese condiment that is usually gluten-free. (Check the label to make sure.) It can be found in the Asian or international foods section of most grocery stores or you can purchase this gluten-free version online.
This salad dressing can be kept in the fridge for up to three days, but remember that the garlic taste will grow stronger the longer it sits.

Ingredients:

  • 2 Tbsp. tamari
  • 1 Tbsp. rice vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp. finely chopped or grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 Tbsp. dark sesame oil
  • 1 Tbsp. honey
  • 1 Tbsp. grapeseed or other neutral-tasting oil

Special equipment:

  • Measuring spoons
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method:

Add all of the ingredients to a small mixing bowl and whisk until combined.

Green Goddess–Style Salad Dressing with Avocado

The original recipe for Green Goddess salad dressing contained a rather alarming amount of mayonnaise that was mixed with anchovies, herbs, and scallions. Since then, the recipe has evolved to the point that it would probably be unrecognizable to its inventor, executive chef Philip Roemer of San Francisco’s Palace Hotel.
This version of Green Goddess dressing doesn’t contain mayonnaise but instead uses avocado and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and rich mouthfeel. Avocados are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to reduce bad cholesterol and normalize blood pressure in animal studies.
Use Green Goddess dressing on butter lettuce and cucumber salads, on top of grilled salmon, or as an elegant dip for crudités. This recipe is at its best when made in a food processor, and the avocado and fresh herbs turn the dressing a gorgeous shade of green.
This salad dressing is tastiest the day it was made, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to two days if necessary.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado, skin removed and cut into quarters
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup fresh herbs (try using a mixture of basil, parsley, and watercress)
  • ½ tsp. kosher salt

Special equipment:

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Food processor
  • Silicone or wooden spatula

Method:

Add all of the ingredients to the food processor and blitz until smooth, scraping down the sides with a spatula as needed.
Going green has never tasted so good! Try these healthier salad dressing recipes for yourself and let us know which one is your favorite by tagging us in your foodie photos on Instagram: @itsthehealthyway.

Categories
Happy x Mindful Wellbeing

8 Good Podcasts To Listen To For An Empowering Commute

Driving to work can be a drag. Whether you’re headed to a confining cube or you’re going to the job of your dreams, a long commute doesn’t exactly rev you up for the 8+ hours of work you have ahead of you. That’s why we’re recommending some majorly inspiring and interesting podcasts (all lady-led, of course) that’ll give you some real-life motivation, advice, and entertainment to empower you before you dive into the daily grind.

1. Girlboss Radio

Former Nasty Gal CEO Sophia Amoruso talks to other—you guessed it—girlbosses. When you’re heading into a job, whether you love or hate it, this podcast will motivate you to keep up the hustle. Not to mention, these successful ladies have some kickass advice for your day-to-day life too.

Our Episode Picks

For the Pop-Culture Junkie: Sarah Jessica Parker, actress, producer, entrepreneur
For the 60-Hour Workweek Warrior: Arlan Hamilton, founding and managing partner of Backstage Capital
For the Workout-Legging Addict: Tyler Haney, CEO of Outdoor Voices

2. Happier with Gretchen Rubin

Gretchen Rubin, a writer who studies happiness and human nature, and her sister, Elizabeth Craft, discuss the ins and outs of finding happiness in the chaos of daily life. They give straight-up advice for boosting happiness and discuss the value of self-reflection. For practical-minded women, these tidbits of advice and insights give tangible steps for increasing happiness and fostering good habits.

Our Episode Picks

For the Realist: “Remember, This Is Supposed to Be Fun”
For the Post-It Queen: “Write It Down (Really)”
For the Yoga-Pants Zealot: “Wear ‘Clothes’ Every Day”

3. Almost 30

Friends Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, a playful duo from Los Angeles, chat about the fun of transitioning into adulthood and all that comes with it. For those approaching 30 (which can seem daunting), there’s so much—too much!—to figure out. Regardless of what you’re feeling uncertain about (whether it’s your health, your career, your relationships, your mental state, or all of the above), you can find a relatable episode that’ll encourage you and let you know you’re not alone.

Our Episode Picks

For the 420 Friendly: “Cannabis 101 + Why It’s Important”
For the Yogi: “The Beats, The Sweat, The Tribe”
For the Foodie: “‘Genius Foods’ + How Eating for Optimal Brain Health Will Make You Happier and More Productive”

4. Forever 35

If you’re over 30 and interested in what wellness can look like for you in this chapter of your life, listen to these two friends and self-described wellness addicts discuss how people in the real world (i.e., not wellness influencers) are trying their very best to be comprehensively well. They talk to women who are engaged in the pursuit of wellness from all angles—from maintaining practices that focus on their physical bodies to working with their minds and souls.

Our Episode Picks

For the Minimalist Mom: “Mother of Intention” with Emily Gould
For the Naturalista: “Talking Natural Beauty” with Jessa Blades
For the Serum Devotee: “Skincare Questions” with Courtney Chiusano

5. On Being with Krista Tippett

For the deep thinkers, Krista Tippett will get your gears turning as she discusses life’s big questions with interesting people. If you’re looking to go on a deep dive into your mind, listen to On Being for your fix of profound reflection.

Our Episode Picks

For the Artist: “The Normal, Daily Things We Fall in Love With” with Maira Kalman
For the Self-Identity Seeker: “Finding My ‘I Am’” with Maria Shriver
For the Writer: “Soul Food, Sex, and Space” with Nikki Giovanni

6. By the Book

Each week, Jolenta Greenberg, a producer and performer in New York City, and Kristen Meinzer, an audio producer and host, live according to the advice of a self-help book to determine if these authors know what they’re talking about or if they’re just selling a gimmick. For those who frequent the self-help section of their local bookstore or the cynics calling BS on Malcolm Gladwell, this podcast assesses the power of such literature to revolutionize your life.

Our Episode Picks

For the Eternally Messy: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
For the Real Housewives Fanatic: Class With the Countess
For the Down-on-Her-Luck: You Are a Badass

7. Free Cookies

Hosted by real-life couple Kate Fagan, an ESPN reporter, and Kathryn Budig, a yoga teacher and foodie, this podcast shares “free cookies” about their respective areas of interest, plus deets on their relationship. Juicy.

Our Episode Picks

For the Sports Fan: “Abby Wambach Kicks Off Cookies”
For the Barre Class Enthusiast: “Curtain Calls & Cookies”
For the Yogi: “Cookies for Every Body”

8. Unladylike

Unladylike gets into the challenges, stigmas, and stereotypes women face in today’s society and what they’re doing to overcome them. Hosts Cristen Conger and Caroline Ervin bring on ladies who talk about self-empowerment and ignore the haters trying to tell them how to live their lives.

Our Episode Picks

For the Women Crushing on Fitness Influencers: “How to Get a Yoga Body” with Jessamyn Stanley
For the Working Mom: “How to Nanny Up”
With intelligent and genuine ladies like these paving the way, it makes sense that podcasts have become increasingly popular in the past couple of years. The right Beyoncé track can pump you up momentarily, but the right podcast can give you some sustainable motivation to work hard while making your daily commute more empowering.

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Aloe Vera Gel Might Just Be The Missing Piece In Your Skincare Routine

Let me tell y’all something. I am obsessed with aloe vera gel. Remember how the dad in My Big Fat Greek Wedding spritzed Windex on everything from dry skin to a scraped knee? Well, that’s how I feel about aloe vera gel. Got a sunburn? Aloe vera gel can fix it. That pesky pimple? Just dab some aloe vera gel on it. Ashy knees? Aloe vera gel, baby.
Now, admittedly, my love for aloe vera gel has not historically been research- or evidence-based. I love the way it smells and the way it goes on sticky but dries smooth. (I mean, magic, right?!) So I wanted to find out if aloe vera gel is the skincare miracle I’ve been claiming—or is it way overrated?
I spoke with skincare experts to get the scoop on why aloe vera gel might just be the missing piece in your skincare routine.

What is pure aloe vera gel?

“Aloe vera is the botanical or scientific name for the plant,” says Justin Hancock, certified professional horticulturist and garden expert at Costa Farms in Miami. “Botanists have given it a name change, so you’ll also see the old botanical name Aloe barbadensis used—confusing, I know!”
A tropical succulent, there are literally hundreds of varieties of aloe. But aloe vera (or aloe barbadensis) is the kind you’re most likely find in spots from your neighborhood supermarket to the local nursery. Aloe vera doesn’t just refer to the plant itself, though. According to Hancock, “Aloe vera is also used commonly to refer to the thick gel found in the leaves. So you can essentially use the term however you want and not be wrong.”
[pullquote align=”center”]Bloomberg News recently reported that many popular brands of aloe vera gel, including those from CVS and Walgreens, contained little or no aloe vera at all![/pullquote]
What’s more, says Hancock, you actually can grow and harvest your own all-natural aloe vera gel at home. Even if you don’t have an aloe plant, whole aloe leaves can usually be found in specialty grocery stores.
No time to grow or harvest your own aloe vera? Celebrity facialist Ildi Pekar, who counts Miranda Kerr as a client, says if you’re buying aloe vera gel, “Use a 100 percent natural aloe vera and stay away from added alcohols.”
When purchasing aloe vera gel, don’t get fooled by deceptive labeling; always look at the ingredient list before purchasing. Bloomberg News recently reported that many popular brands of aloe vera gel, including those from CVS and Walgreens, contained little or no aloe vera at all! What’s more, these manufactured “aloe” gels often contain alcohol for a cooling effect. Instead of hydrating your skin, the alcohol in these faux aloe vera gels actually ends up drying skin out.
A pure aloe vera gel will contain ingredients you can pronounce: aloe vera (obviously) and citric acid (an organic compound used as a preservative). Some may also contain essential oil for scent.

Aloe Vera Gel for Skincare

Aloe vera gel is a great addition to any skincare routine because it isn’t comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. And, according to Adrienne Haughton, MD, director of clinical and cosmetic dermatology at Stony Brook Medicine at Commack, aloe vera may help fight signs of aging.
“One scientific review of aloe vera states that the mucopolysaccharides help in binding moisture into the skin,” says Haughton. “It goes on to state that aloe stimulates fibroblasts, which produced collagen and elastin fibers—making the skin more elastic and potentially less wrinkled.”
“Another study showed that taking aloe vera gel orally has anti-aging effects,” Haughton continues. “Those who took aloe vera gel showed improved skin elasticity and decreased skin wrinkles, which was shown to be the result of increased pro-collagen throughout the dermis (the layer of the skin that contains collagen).”
As if reducing fine lines and wrinkles weren’t wonderful enough, aloe vera gel may even help clear up acne breakouts faster. In one study, participants whose acne was being treated with the topical retinoid tretinoin were also given aloe vera gel, which was applied topically. Tretinoin and aloe vera gel used in combination were shown to be more effective at treating acne than acne medication alone.
So how can you use aloe vera gel as part of your daily skincare routine?
Well, you can use aloe vera gel daily as a moisturizer. I have incredibly dry skin, and I’ve found that pure aloe vera gel is one of the only products, aside from literally bathing in olive oil (which I do not recommend), that keeps my face hydrated all day long. Or you can use aloe vera gel to make a moisturizing aloe vera lotion with basic ingredients, almost all of which can be found in your kitchen cupboard.

Aloe Vera Gel for Home Hair Remedies

Wait, you mean you can use aloe vera gel on your head too?! you ask? Yes! I told you aloe vera gel is amazing.
According to Dominic Burg, PhD, chief scientist for évolis hair products, “Aloe contains enzymes that provide an exfoliating effect and remove dead cells. It is also rich in vitamins C and E, which provide it its antioxidant/anti-aging effect.” These properties, says Burg, make aloe hugely beneficial to hair and scalp health.
Because aloe vera helps exfoliate the scalp, it’s a great treatment for dry, flaky skin and dandruff. In addition to its anti-aging properties, aloe’s vitamin E helps lock moisture into the scalp, preventing further dryness and irritation. And, while aloe vera gel won’t make your hair grow faster, its moisturizing qualities help prevent breakage and split ends.
[pullquote align=”center”]Aloe vera gel can even be used to promote postpartum healing after a vaginal birth. The easiest way to apply aloe vera gel postpartum is by making padsicles to stash in your freezer.[/pullquote]
“Pure aloe vera gel is not very convenient to use,” explains Burg, “so it is best to look for combination products. Avoid silicones and too many heavy oils that may block pores and cause greasy hair at the roots.”
If you’d rather not decipher the ingredients on haircare products that claim to contain pure aloe vera gel, Burg says it’s easy to make your own aloe vera conditioning treatment at home.
“You can dilute fresh aloe vera gel with water [using a] 1:2 [ratio] and use it as a conditioner while in the shower after shampooing,” explains Burg. “You can also mix essential oils such as rosemary in it for added anti-aging benefits. For a moisturizing mask-style treatment, you can mix aloe vera gel with coconut oil and apply to the hair and scalp, then leave for at least 30 minutes.”

Other Uses for Aloe Vera Gel

Healing Wounds

Aloe vera gel isn’t just great for your skin and hair. According to a 2016 study, when applied topically, aloe vera gel accelerated wound healing in rats, resulting in reduced inflammation and decreased scar tissue size. According to a 2015 review of aloe vera used in wound care, aloe vera may help heal wounds faster due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. You can apply 100 percent aloe vera gel topically straight to a wound to promote healing, or you can apply it to your bandage before covering a wound.
Aloe vera gel can even be used to promote postpartum healing after a vaginal birth. The easiest way to apply aloe vera gel postpartum is by making padsicles to stash in your freezer. Simply take a pad of your choice (I suggest the jumbo ones they send home from the hospital with you), coat it in aloe vera gel, wrap it back in its packaging, and stick it in the freezer. Once it’s frozen, stick that sucker in your giant postpartum undies: The aloe promotes faster healing, and the ice-cold pad will help reduce swelling.

Makeup Remover

You don’t have to spend big bucks to find an aloe vera-based makeup remover. In fact, you can make your own aloe vera gel makeup remover at home with this recipe from Wild for Nature. Best of all? It’s also vegan.
If you’re not the DIY type, Pekar says that many products in her eponymous skincare line contain aloe vera, including a facial cleanser that can be used to remove makeup.

Shop some of Pekar’s aloe-infused products here…

[products ids=’1004870,1004878,1004877′ type=full]

Aloe Vera Gel Side Effects

It’s pretty rare to be allergic to topical aloe treatments, but Haughton says that “allergic contact dermatitis has been seen with aloe vera gel.”
If you’re allergic to aloe vera gel, you’ll likely just get a mild rash or feel itchy where the aloe was applied. If that’s the case, wash the area with soap and water to remove the aloe vera gel completely. However, if you notice any signs of a severe allergic reaction, be sure to call your doctor right away.

Aloe Vera Gel and California’s Prop 65

You may have heard recently that California added aloe to the list of known carcinogenic ingredients included in the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (more efficiently known as Prop 65). But, you may be wondering, didn’t you just tell me all the amazing ways aloe vera can help my skin and hair?
Yes I did, and it still can. That’s because the aloe included on the Prop 65 list was actually a very specific type: non-decolorized, whole-leaf aloe extract. A study found that this specific type of aloe extract, which is manufactured using a charcoal filtration process, can release organic compounds called anthraquinones, which are known for their laxative properties. Anthraquinones aren’t all carcinogenic, but one type called aloin, which is found in the outer leaf pulp of the aloe plant, was shown to cause cancerous tumors in rats.
The good news is that aloin caused tumors to grow in rats when ingested. Little or no cancer-causing activity was reported when aloe (even if the product contained aloin) was applied topically.
Aloe vera gel may not be the cure to absolutely everything, despite what I’d been preaching to anyone who’d listen. But it turns out that when it comes to your skin and scalp, aloe vera gel is pretty darn close to being the magical skincare remedy I’ve always known it is. And it’s way safer than Windex.

Categories
Nosh Nutrition x Advice

How To Start A Food Blog, According To Successful Food Bloggers

Wanted: A woman who loves food. But we mean really loves food—not just eating it and Instagramming the prettiest of plates. We’re talking about passionate foodies who love to cook and create recipes and whose happiest moments are watching others enjoy their food. If you love to prepare meals and get creative in the kitchen, or if you have a unique take on healthy eating, wouldn’t it be nice to share your wisdom with others in a cooking blog or recipe blog?
The world of food blogging is a veritable buffet, with a style and design for every palate. But what separates the creme de la creme of food blogs from the ones that get lost in the shuffle? We’ve spoken to the minds behind some of the best food blogs to get the scoop on their recipes for success and have rounded up their top food blogging tips for starting a successful food blog and building a brand around it.

The Decision to Start a Food Blog

Making the decision to start a food blog, nutrition blog, or cooking blog (or a combo of all three) is the first step. And there is no template for who is the perfect fit. The common denominator among the best food blogs, however, tends to be a passion for creativity and health-conscious recipes.
“My husband gifted the blog to me as a creative outlet from a job I was really enjoying,” says Sara Forte, creator of Sprouted Kitchen. “I taught myself how to cook, and the blog was a means of sharing that process.” Sprouted Kitchen is the love project between Forte and her husband, Hugh.
Sara’s passion for food stems from her experience working in grocery stores and on farms, which taught her the valuable lesson of eating seasonably. Her aim is to make “healthy-ish” foods more accessible and easy to fit into everyday life by promoting produce, whole grains, healthy fats, and natural sugar alternatives.
She and Hugh, who handles the photography, have taken on the blogosphere together, and they also released a cookbook, Sprouted Kitchen: A Tastier Take on Whole Foods.
Brittany Mullins, health coach, personal trainer, and creator of eating bird food, considers herself to be more of a promoter of healthy living. Her food blog tackles not just recipes but also provides workouts and practical life advice, which has helped her create a health-focused website and community as well.
For Eve Fox, creator of The Garden of Eating, food blogging became a healthy outlet during a particularly difficult time in her life. “I was struggling with infertility,” she says. “I’d just lost my third pregnancy and felt tired, sad, and hopeless—in hindsight, I was depressed.”
She was lucky enough to have had a sympathetic boss who let her take a month off.
Being at home with all this time on her hands led her to begin cooking and canning. “I decided I should write about what I was up to in case others found it useful or interesting.” Today the blog is focused around good food from start to finish: growing, producing, procuring, cooking, and, of course, eating.
Jaime Hausler’s blog, Balanced Bella, came to life after she was inspired on Instagram by all the delicious food pictures that filled up her feed. “I remember thinking, ‘This looks fun and I’d love to do something like this,'” she says. “The more I started reading other people’s blogs, the more I realized I could do something like this.”
When Hausler started the blog, she was newly vegan and was falling in love fast with the wonders of plant-based eating. For her, this went so much further than salads.
From making caramels out of dates to frosting out of avocado, the flexibility and creativity in the world of plant-based food never ceased to amaze her. The more she created, the more her imagination grew and inspired her to test the boundaries of plant-based foods to make vegan eating more approachable.

How to Start a Food Blog People Won’t Forget

More than just having a great idea, the actual execution of the food blog itself contributes to the success.
The first piece of advice is to find your voice and get personal. “There are so many food blogs now. I only read the ones where I am invested in the blogger’s perspective or point of view,” says Forte. There is no shortage of recipes online, so adding a bit about who you are will set you apart. “We try to add pieces of our family, life experience, travel, etc.”
Keeping consistency is another secret to success. Once your readers get to know you and like you, they are going to want to hear from you regularly. “Posting regularly—once a week or more—is crucial,” says Fox.

Creating Food Blog Content

Voice and consistency are extremely important, but it goes without saying that the content needs to be top quality. For many food bloggers who focus on nutrition, this involves reinventing classics to give them a healthy spin or, in many cases, coming up with innovative and unique recipes.
[pullquote align=”center”]“My hope has always been to share healthy-ish recipes than anyone could make. Sure, I want them to be beautiful, but first, useful and approachable.”
—Sara Forte of Sprouted Kitchen[/pullquote]
“My hope has always been to share healthy-ish recipes than anyone could make,” says Forte. “Sure, I want them to be beautiful, but first, useful and approachable.”
And for those of you who are worried you need to be professionally trained to be a food blogger, rest easy. “I am not a trained cook. Nothing I make is complicated or takes specific skills,” adds Forte. “I like to deconstruct dishes I’ve had at a restaurant or read on a menu.”
Mullins takes her childhood favorites and revamps them to put a healthy spin on them. “I love creating copycat recipes of meals I enjoy, or store-bought items,” she says. For example, she loves a healthy sweet potato casserole recipe because it’s a revamped version of her mother’s classic.
For Hausler, inspiration comes from all over the map. “One time I was riding the subway in New York and saw a picture of food,” she says. “The subway was moving so quickly that I didn’t get a chance to see what the picture was. Nonetheless, I let my imagination and hungry stomach fill in the blanks and I created my potato cakes with onion and kale recipe.”
She also says her reinventions of classics are fun to work with, such as her raw snickers and black bean brownies or her gluten-free pancakes and vegan meatballs.

Food blogs are built on beautiful photographs.

The food world today is about feasting with all the senses, as so much of eating is about visualizing. People eat with their eyes first, so any successful food blog ranks beautiful photographs as almost equivalent to the recipes themselves.
[pullquote align=”center”]“You might be the most tech-savvy person, but if your writing is boring and your photographs are subpar, nobody will stick around to read the next post.”
—Jaime Hausler of Balanced Bella[/pullquote]
“Visuals and good writing are the two most important components,” says Hausler. “You might be the most tech-savvy person, but if your writing is boring and your photographs are subpar, nobody will stick around to read the next post.”
This is true both on the blog itself and on the social media platforms that promote your blog, like Facebook and Instagram. “Visuals are key to food blogging,” says Fox. “In many respects the photos are far more important than the recipes and the text that accompany them these days.”
Fox takes her own photographs and recommends shooting food in a spot in the house that offers the best light. “Sometimes that’s in one part of my dining room and sometimes it’s outside,” she says. “If it’s dark out, I use a great tabletop light for digital photography that mimics sunlight.” She recommends using a macro lens on the camera, which allows you to get close to the subject.
“I have specific days where I’m in the kitchen creating the recipes and taking photos of them,” says Mullins. “I have a big shelf in my office with props, and our coat closet is full of photography boards. When it’s time for a photoshoot, I bring out all the materials and transform my kitchen into a food photography studio.”
Hausler says the photography portion can be quite a process, as the scene has to be set just right. “No greasy fingerprints on the bowl, the distance between the fork and the plate makes a difference, the crumbs need to be strategically placed in order to make it look effortless, and so on and so on,” she says. “I have a cabinet where I keep certain dishes and silverware that I use solely for my photography.”

Is food blogging a sustainable career?

Is food blogging something you can quit your day job for? Can it be a full-time career instead of just a beloved hobby? Of course! Hard work, passion, and consistency can bring impressive and lucrative results. But the drive has to be there. And it will likely take a while to build yourself up to that point.
Fox consults with progressive non-profits and small businesses on digital advocacy, fundraising, and marketing. Mullins is a health coach and personal trainer with a background in digital marketing, though she was lucky enough to turn blogging into her full-time career within the last four years.
Hausler is a teacher but is leaving that job shortly to expand and pursue her blogging. And Forte was fortunate enough to have the rest of her side hustles stem from Sprouted Kitchen. She says her career is a collection of things, all based around food in some capacity.

Balancing Food Blogging With “Real Life”

Bloggers tend to be very busy people. It’s part of the creative mindset and not being able to sit still. As such, they tend to have incredibly full lives. But for someone to have a successful food blog, they have to treat it as its own full-time job.
That includes the promotion, marketing, social media, research, and actual content creation. Add to that having a social life, a second (or third) career, and in many cases, marriage and children, and it’s easy to see why successful food blogs are driven by the truly passionate.
“I want to soak up this time while my kids are young and obsessed with me, but I also really love working,” says Forte. “I have a strong pull to be both a worker and a mother, but I will say it is really tough to feel like you are doing both, or either, well. Both jobs require a lot. But I love what we get to do—work together and also have time with our kids.”
“Blogging is my full-time job,” says Mullins, “so I treat it as such. I work a traditional 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule and try to be done with work when my husband gets home so we can hang out with our dog and have some quality time together.”
Hausler urges setting aside a certain number of hours each week to dedicate solely to the blog. “I’m in a transition myself, trying to get back into the blogosphere after being out of touch the past 10 months,” she says. “Once school ends, I will be sticking to a strict schedule for which everyone is on board.” For example, mornings are for her husband and son and the afternoons will be reserved for working on the blog.

Instagram and Food Blogs

Media—and the way we take it in—has changed dramatically in the wake of the widespread dominance of social media. And food blogging is no different. To have a successful food blog, it’s crucial to have a successful Instagram account as well.
“Blogs are still relevant as a resource, but I don’t think they are being consumed the same way at all,” says Forte. “I don’t have nearly the engagement there that I do on Instagram. That’s fine with me. I’m enjoying that platform, too, and in some ways it’s less work.”

Any leftovers for food blogs?

With such an oversaturation of food blogs, it’s difficult to imagine a niche yet to be filled. Fortunately, the creative minds don’t see it that way. And chances are if you’re thinking of starting a food blog, it’s because you have something unique to say about food.
“There is always, in my opinion, a niche that has yet to be filled,” says Hausler. “Kale, chia, and açaí are just some of the many superfoods which have saturated the market over the past decade. I think there will always be a new superfood that bloggers and readers aren’t able to get enough of. Being at the forefront of this is what makes a blogger good at their job.”

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Makeup Brushes That Are Actually Eco-Friendly

“No doubt, we are living in one of the best times in history, with so much information and knowledge available at our disposal,” says Danielle Schleese, vegan makeup artist and Youtube vlogger. “The spread of information about cruelty-free products can be used as a powerful tool to raise awareness on issues that affect our global evolution.” Schleese goes on to note that it remains up to the consumer to decide what information to expose themselves to and what choices to make when it comes to going eco-friendly and cruelty-free—especially when it comes to cosmetics and makeup brushes.
Many of us associate this kind of conscious consumerism with veganism and especially what people eat. And yes, there’s a good reason more and more Americans are moving toward a vegan lifestyle according to a report prepared by the research company GlobalData. Veganism is definitely trendy, but people are also realizing that ethical purchases and sustainable lifestyles choices can have a major influence on our furry friends and on the environment regardless of what we’re putting on our plates. Though GlobalData’s report focused primarily on the culinary world, this mentality has made its way onto the beauty scene, with more and more brands creating vegan, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free products.
Specifically, we’ve seen an increase in the use of synthetic makeup brushes in place of the animal-hair brushes that have long been deemed “the best of the best.” Case in point: Big-name brand MAC announced earlier this year that their makeup brushes have are now 100 percent synthetic.  This is exciting news for consumers and makeup artists who’ve been on the hunt for eco-friendly makeup brushes for years.

Does synthetic mean sacrificing quality?

The use of synthetic materials is key when it comes to choosing eco-friendly makeup brushes, but a brand’s cruelty-free and eco-friendly qualities are not the only factors to consider. You want to make sure the brush you’re buying is high quality too! Anything you’re spending your hard-earned money on shouldn’t shed (a hairy face is probably not the look you’re going for), should be held in place by a solid metal base (known as the “ferrule”) that won’t easily fly off the handle (aka become detached), and, most importantly, should do the job of effectively applying your makeup.
[related article_ids=19648]
To help educate you on the true meaning behind eco-friendly and cruelty-free, and what you need to know before purchasing a makeup brush that claims to be both, we turned to experts who explain how it all works.

What puts the “friendly” in eco-friendly makeup brushes?

When most of us think about the term “eco-friendly,” we think about a product that’s not harmful to the earth or the environment. But when it comes to the makeup industry, it can actually go far beyond that. Cruelty-free is the name of the game, but some cult fave cosmetics companies still aren’t on board with banning animal testing.
Millions of animals are used in research and toxicity testing for some of the most commonly used beauty products we hold so dear to our get-ready regimen. What’s worse is that research published in a 2014 report from the New England Anti-Vivisection Society, “Review of Evidence of Environmental Impacts of Animal Research and Testing,” suggests that the use and disposal of these animals contributes to pollution in addition to adversely impacting biodiversity and public health.
Additional reports from the National Institutes of Health’s Division of Intramural Research Laboratories found that labs that use animals for research produced over 1.5 million pounds of animal bedding, feces, and excess food waste. These large amounts of animal waste are as detrimental to our environment as the waste we create as humans. Additionally, the millions of discarded animal carcasses—many of which have been contaminated with a myriad of different chemicals, viruses, and diseases—can lead to an array of biological hazards. The same is true for laboratories that incinerate the animals after use—the toxic emissions are still released into the environment.
But a beauty product—like a makeup brush—can be cruelty-free without being animal-free. That means that while a company may not test on animals, they could still use hair or fur from an animal for the brush’s bristles: “Many of the soft and plush makeup brushes on the market are made with animal hair (squirrel, boar, fox, horse, etc,),” explains Annie Tevelin, beauty expert and founder of natural, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free skincare line SkinOwl.
Though animal testing and cruelty are huge issues in the cosmetics industry, parts and packaging are also a big part of the problem. When brush handles and parts are not recyclable, they wind up landfills, which pile up year after year. Thankfully, more and more companies are turning toward using recyclable materials. Some, like EcoTools, are even using 100 percent tree-free paper for their packaging by swapping paper out for 20 percent cotton and 80 percent bamboo fibers.
Ready to hop on the eco-friendly and cruelty-free bandwagon? Here are some of the best “friendly” makeup brushes the market has to offer.

EcoTools

This PETA-certified brush company pretty much takes the cake when it comes to being environmentally aware in all aspects of production and creation. They use recycled materials such as aluminum and plastic, their packaging is made of 100 percent tree-free paper, with 20 percent cotton and 80 percent bamboo fibers, and their handles are made from renewable bamboo.
“They are great for the average daily use and maintain their form and shape if treated properly,” says Schleese. In her experience, she’s never had any problems with EcoTools brushes shedding, although she has experienced the head separating from the handle. “If this happens, it’s so easy to glue back on,” she adds. “These brushes are great quality for a great price, lasting for two-plus years. They are also good for travel because the handles are a bit shorter than standard brushes.”
[products ids=’1005905,1005907,1005909′ type=full]

Bdellium Tools

This is another vegan, eco-friendly brand that Schleese loves—especially for the price point. Full sets range in size and price from $30.99 to $129.99 on Amazon.
[related article_ids=1003339]
“They feature eco-friendly green bamboo handles and vegan bristles with an anodized aluminum ferrule,” she says. “They are often compared to professional grade since they don’t shed, hardly ever fall apart, and offer a wide range of brush types—ideal for someone looking for more styles.”
[products ids=’1005912,1005916,1005918′ type=full]

INIKA

This Australian-owned company has gained clout in the beauty industry over the last decade for their organic, natural makeup and their vegan and cruelty-free products. Not only are their products made from natural ingredients and not tested on animals, but they’re certified organic by the Organic Food Chain, Australia’s National Organic Standard, which is a major deal since this is one of the highest standards set for organic cosmetic companies in the world.
They’re kind to the environment too; their brushes’ handles are made from sustainably sourced wood.
[products ids=’1005925,1005924,1005920′ type=full]

100% Pure

This vegan, cruelty-free makeup, skincare, and brush line is fully committed to producing the purest products in all aspects. The colors in their makeup are sourced from a vibrant combination of fruit, vegetable, tea, and other plant pigments instead of harmful dyes that contain lead, mercury, and other dangerous heavy metals, and they also utilize a Natural Definition Process (NDP) adopted from the USDA process for identifying natural versus synthetic ingredients.
100% Pure is also committed to being eco-friendly in all areas, from developing their products using biodegradable formulas to using recyclable packaging and biodegradable packing materials. They even print using non-toxic and soy inks and work out of a headquarters that is 100 percent solar-powered. Pretty impressive all around!
[products ids=’1005927,1005932,1005930′ type=full]

M.O.T.D. Cosmetics

This luxe vegan makeup brush line hovers at a higher price point but is worth checking out for multiple reasons. Of course they’re both vegan and cruelty-free and PETA certified. The brushes are made out of Taklon, a high-grade synthetic polyester fiber that’s just as soft as, if not softer than, real animal hair.
“The ferrule (the part that holds the bristles) does not shed, nor come off since my two-and-a-half years of owning them,” says Schleese. “The only thing is their handle is not made from recycled materials, or from natural bamboo-like materials, which is worth noting.” All brushes in their line are hypoallergenic and anti-bacterial, so they’re ideal for people who are sensitive to allergens and irritants.
[products ids=’1005943,1005938,1005942′ type=full]

NVEY ECO

This environmentally conscious collection of cosmetics includes everything from eyeshadows and foundations to moisturizers and cleansers as well as a pretty sensational line of brushes. The brand has been around since 2005, making it one of the first eco-friendly brush lines.
None of NVEY ECO’s products are tested on animals and are all developed without the use of chemical ingredients such as parabens, petrochemicals, or synthetic fragrances. NVEY ECO’s products also qualify as industrially compostable (aka capable of naturally disintegrating without leaving a mark of toxicity). What’s also enviable about NVEY ECO’s brushes is that they don’t shed. True to their moderate-to-high price range, they are long-lasting, soft, and blend easily.
[products ids=’1005945,1005950,1005949′ type=full]

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Finding Clean Beauty Products Just Got Easier

We live in a world of buzzwords when it comes to beauty, health, and wellness, and there are a few that tend to stand out. Organic and natural, for example, have been mainstays in our wellness dialogue for quite some time, but a new word is taking the world by storm: clean.
Clean eating is one of the simplest and healthiest approaches to eating. It focuses on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. There is also an element of social responsibility and environmental impact when it comes to eating clean. But clean is no longer a buzzword that’s limited to just your diet. Beauty products can also carry the clean seal of approval.
For a beauty product to be considered clean, it often requires third-party testing to ensure the safety of the ingredient list; the products are also sustainable and unlikely to have a negative impact on the environment. And, so the logic goes, if they aren’t harming the environment, they likely are okay for your body as well.
Shopping for clean beauty products is becoming increasingly easier, as many beauty brands are coming out with dedicated clean lines.
In one of the biggest moves yet for the clean [linkbuilder id=”6742″ text=”beauty industry”], Sephora recently released its Clean Beauty Seal, which offers a whole range of products, including skincare, haircare, makeup, and fragrance, that they’ve deemed toxin-free. Sephora has investigated each brand under its Clean seal to ensure that they contain no synthetic ingredients and are free of “toxic” ingredients.
Clean at Sephora products are formulated without ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclosan, triclocarban, formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, and all synthetic fragrances—so fresh and so clean.
Beyond the Clean seal of approval, you can find clean products within your favorite beauty brands if you know what to look for.

What does clean beauty mean?

To be very clear, “clean” is not a term certified by any governing body, and there is still some debate about what exactly it entails.
The movement toward clean beauty began when people realized that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is not required to approve beauty and skincare products. This doesn’t necessarily mean the ones on the shelves are causing harm, but it did begin to raise awareness in the beauty community as to what we are putting on our skin and in our bodies.
There’s no true definition of “clean beauty.” And clean can encompass products that are both natural and artificial. The difference is that clean beauty is considered safe—safe for your body, safe for the environment, and usually free of ingredients like phthalates, parabens, mineral oils, and other controversial ingredients.
[pullquote align=”center”]“There are many organic products that you would not want to put on your skin. Think about poison ivy. It’s organic, but you wouldn’t want it on you.”
—Arielle Nagler, MD[/pullquote]
“When it comes to clean beauty there are a few things that people think about,” Arielle Nagler, MD, dermatologist at NYU Langone Health explains. “Is it environmentally safe? Is it free of toxins for use in people? What was the research that went into developing them? Was there no impact on the environment or on animals?” Asking these questions helps to determine whether the products in your daily beauty regimen are, in fact, clean.
Additionally, Nagler says that people want to use products that have responsible ingredients because of environmental and health concerns. “For example,” she says, “Synthetic sunscreens are bad for the environment. Other ingredients are said to disrupt hormone production, or perhaps even be carcinogenic. Clean beauty [on the other hand] is environmentally friendly, and above all, uses non-toxic ingredients.”

Clean Beauty, Organic Beauty, and Natural Beauty: Understanding Labels

While it is always nice to go organic or go natural, these labels don’t necessarily qualify as clean. So when you see words on the packaging like “all natural,” or “organic,” you might be thinking that you’re getting one thing, when in reality, if you knew the true chemical breakdown or production process, you would feel differently.
Additionally, many clean beauty products have certain stamps on the back, like USDA organic, non-GMO, and EWG. While having these labels doesn’t necessarily mean they’re safer, it does mean they have met certain sets of guidelines.
“Not everything that is natural or organic is necessarily safe,” says Nagler. “There are many organic products that you would not want to put on your skin. Think about poison ivy. It’s organic, but you wouldn’t want it on you,” she says.

Ingredients to Avoid for Clean Beauty

From makeup to skincare to hair and nails—or whatever else is part of your daily routine—when you’re picking out your beauty products, there are key ingredients to look out for that might mean a product is not clean.

Phthalates

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastic. And, believe it or not, they are in a lot of the cosmetics we use on a daily basis.
“Phthalates, as key components in plastics, appear in many consumer products,” according to the study Chemical Exposures: The Ugly Side of Beauty Products. “The main phthalates in cosmetics and personal care products are dibutyl phthalate in nail polish, diethyl phthalate in perfumes and lotions, and dimethyl phthalate in hairspray.” They are also found in products with synthetic fragrance.
“The concern with phthalates is that they are thought to disrupt the endocrine system,” says Nagler. (The endocrine system is responsible for sending hormone signals throughout the body.)
“When you’re thinking of things with fragrances, like perfumes, nail polish products, or shaving cream, you’re thinking of things with phthalates,” she explains.
To spot phthalates, look for the following on the label: phthalate, DEP, DBP, DEHP and synthetic fragrance, or just fragrance in general. If the products are free of these things, you’re typically good to go.

Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is a heavily debated ingredient in the beauty and dermatology community. Mineral oils include ingredients like petroleum or other moisturizers. According to the National Toxicology Program, untreated mineral oil is a known human carcinogen. That said, the ones you find in beauty products are highly refined.
“These products are also thought to be bad for the environment, and overall tend to be very heavy products,” says Nagler.
Plant-based alternatives are thought to be better for the environment and for the body overall; look for coconut oil, jojoba oil, and argan oils, all of which work to seal in moisture.

Retinyl Palmitate

This ingredient is one that we see a lot of in our day-to-day beauty regimens. It is a derivative of vitamin A and is used in many common skincare products, like face and body creams, for its anti-aging properties.
The problem with retinyl palmitate is that it is thought to cause birth defects and can also increase skin sensitivity. The Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database also suggests that, when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight, retinyl palmitate may speed the development of skin tumors and lesions.
[pullquote align=”center”]The problem with retinyl palmitate is that it is thought to cause birth defects and can also increase skin sensitivity.[/pullquote]

Oxybenzone

Now that we’re officially in summer mode, it’s time to start slathering on the sunscreen. But most sunscreens today contain oxybenzone, a common ingredient in chemical sunscreens.
Many people are allergic to this ingredient, says Nagler. Additionally, when sunscreen comes off our bodies in the ocean, the oxybenzone has been shown to be destructive to coral reefs. And lastly, there have been a number of experimental studies that indicate that several sunscreens might have endocrine disruptive effects.
“There are alternatives to oxybenzone in sunscreens, however,” says Nagler. “Look for ones that are zinc- and titanium-based.”

Coal Tar

Coal tar is an ointment used to treat a variety of skin diseases, like psoriasis and eczema, and it is often found in many dandruff shampoos. While the FDA has deemed it safe and effective for the treatment of dandruff and psoriasis, there are concerns surrounding it as a carcinogen, Nagler says. Studies—many of which have been conducted on animals—show that chronic exposure to coal tar can increase the chances of skin cancer.
Instead of using dandruff shampoos with coal tar, Nagler suggests, “Try [selecting] shampoos or lotions that are anti-fungal based.”

Triclosan and Triclocarban

If you are using any type of antibacterial beauty product like soaps, body washes, and cosmetics, triclosan and/or triclocarban are often key ingredients. These antibacterial agents are designed to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination.
“The problem recently,” says Nagler, “is that people are concerned that triclosan/triclocarban can affect the thyroid as well as reproductive hormones.”
Similarly, studies show that triclosan exposure can increase the chance of cancer, and is a known contaminant to the environment.
Instead, opt for choosing soaps or body washes that have nature-inspired antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil.

Categories
Life x Culture Lifestyle

Amazon Prime Day, The Healthy Way (And The Other Sales That Invite You To #treatyoself Today)

If you love receiving packages full of goodies you selected specifically for…you (and you have an Amazon Prime membership), then you’re probably just as excited about Amazon Prime Day as we are.
But balancing the desire for a little something new at a steal of a price can conflict with our best intentions of being conscious consumers, especially as some of us aim for minimalism, are rocking capsule wardrobes, and want to make more space for meditation and mindfulness instead of “stuff.”
Here’s how the ladies of HealthyWay HQ plan to make the most of Prime Day, without breaking the bank amassing unnecessary clutter that’ll be collecting dust come Prime Day 2019.

Audible

Editor-in-Chief Ashley is already an Audible subscriber, but she loves it enough to recommend that readers (or listeners?) take the plunge on Prime Day, when you can save a whopping 66 percent on a three-month membership.
Be aware that membership will renew at the full rate of $14.95/month after the first three months, but rather than letting this scare you off, celebrate the great deal you’ll be getting—and the books, audioshows, news, and comedy that can enrich your life between now and October without you having to turn a single page.
Find some of our favorite Audible books here…
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KitchenAid Stand Mixer (aka Kitchen Goals)

Does any piece of kitchen equipment say My (culinary) best self has arrived quite like KitchenAid’s iconic stand mixer? No, ma’am.
Elevate your mixing game (and kitchen aesthetic) with the Professional 5-Qt. model STAT.

Echo Dot

Maggie’s response to the question “What’re you lusting after this Prime Day?”: “I want another Amazon Dot. I only have one, but I want moooore.”
At $29.99 (yes, that’s a 40 percent discount), it’s easy to imagine calling the shots, jamming to your Spotify playlists, and getting info on demand with this handy device that’ll have you feeling like the queen of your castle day in and day out.
Peep our fave Alexa devices here…
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“Get it right, get it tight.”

I’m not taking any beauty cues from Bubba Sparxxx, but when Ashley and Maggie both recommend the same retinol moisturizer as a Prime Day treat, this girl perks up. Ashley says she uses very few products on her face (same here), but that she enjoys Baebody’s retinol moisturizing cream, which leaves her face feeling just a little more taut when she wakes up in the morning.
The cream is formulated with plant-derived hyaluronic acid, wildcrafted green tea, organic jojoba oil, vitamin E, vitamin B5, and shea butter, which will have fans of plant products and organics rockin’ everywhere.

Kindle

You know what goes great with a glass of wine and 20 minutes to yourself finally after a long day (or the beach, a long flight, or a park bench)? Silence and the company of a good book—or all 3.4 million of the e-books available through the Amazon Kindle, which you can get at a deep discount on Prime Day.
Not sure where to begin with your reading regimen? We suggest referring to our list of 18 life-changing books that every woman needs to read (on her brand new, 33 percent–off Kindle Paperwhite).
Here are the Kindles our team uses; we love e-readers!
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Athletic Apparel and Shoes

Sweet, sweet Scottish singer-songwriter Paolo Nutini gets it all right when he belts out, “Hey, I put my new shoes on and suddenly everything’s right!” New shoes elevate your everyday game—especially your athleisure getups. And on Prime Day, women’s athletic wear and shoes are up to 50 percent off.
Maggie’s favorite Prime Day pair? These adidas Cloudfoam Sneakers that’ll have you walking on sunshine.

Coconut Oil–Enhanced Biotin

Want to do right by your locks? A good first step is understanding your hair type and treating your hair accordingly. Next up: Give your mane a little TLC by incorporating biotin into your regimen.
I love that Sports Research’s High Potency 5000 mcg biotin is vegan- and vegetarian-friendly as it’s encapsulated in veggie softgels rather than the gelatin ones many of us choose to avoid.

Groceries

Yes, you read that right. This year, for the first time ever, Whole Foods is getting in on the Prime Day bonanza. Prime members can spend $10 in store today and tomorrow and will get $10 to spend on Amazon during Prime Day (for those candles, am I right?). Just scan your Prime Code or use your mobile number at the Whole Foods in-store checkout.
Not sure what to stock up on? How about the ingredients required to whip up some stuffed peppers or an armful of nutrient-packed stem vegetables?

Amazon Handmade

Amazon Handmade is almost too good to be true. I was a complete Etsy nut in a past life, and Amazon Handmade combines all the goodness of genuinely handcrafted goods with the Prime shipping I’ve already bought into (because: all the things I can’t get locally and Sex and the City on Prime Video).
The Amazon Handmade products I’m after this Prime Day? Little Bee of Connecticut’s hand-rolled beeswax pillar candles. I like to burn both candles and sage in my meditation space, and I love that these pillars (which Little Bee offers in 6 inch and 8 inch sizes), are natural, non-toxic, sustainable, and renewable as they don’t contain any petroleum byproducts like the paraffin most candles are made of. Plus, few things are as soothing as the smell of an unscented beeswax candle or the gentle light it emits.
Bonus: With the Prime Day discount, these candles are cheaper than comparable beeswax container candles I’ve come across at T.J.Maxx, and they’re packaged in recyclable paper, so there’s none of the awkwardness of deciding what to do with a waxy, lidless container after your candle’s flickered its last.
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Essential Oil Everything

I nabbed a few Aura Cacia essential oil blends last week (Chill Pill ftw) but have yet to get an essential oil diffuser. Senior Editor Maggie recommends this lovely teardrop-shaped cool mist diffuser from TaoTronics that is home and baby safe.
Read up on the basics of using essential oils before you get started, or take a deep dive into our guide for using essential oils to treat seasonal allergies.

A Not-So-Slow Cooker

I scream, you scream, we all scream for something delicious to eat every 👏 single 👏 day—even workdays when there’s no time for cooking said delicious dishes. Enter the Instant Pot, slow cooker extraordinaire.
You place the Prime order; we’ve got you covered with all the Instant Pot details and a delicious recipe to get you started as soon as your Prime Day package drops.

Meal prep like a pro.

  • Instant Pot ✔️
  • Stand Mixer ✔️
  • All the groceries from Whole Foods ✔️

Now you just need to store all that delicious goodness in an organized, aesthetically pleasing fashion (that’ll have you celebrating your leftover meals as opposed to lamenting #saddesklunches).
Enter Vremi’s 18 piece glass food storage container set. Stackable, airtight, BPA-free, microwave, oven, and freezer safe: All these descriptors are music to our nosh-loving ears.

Not a Prime member?

No need to fret. Target’s pulling out all the stops during Prime Day too, and that competition means deals that are accessible to everyone.
In the mood to level up your legging game? Shop Outdoor Voices’ 40 percent off sale.
Want to share your must-purchase items or Prime Day wishlist? Or did we miss a great deal? Hit us up on Instagram at @itsthehealthyway or Twitter at @healthywaymedia to let us know how you spent Prime Day (literally).

Categories
Favorite Finds Nosh

5 Edible Flowers To Try For Cooking, Baking, And Cocktail-Making

Thirty years ago, flowers were everywhere thanks to the influence of major cultural touchstones like fashion brand Laura Ashley and Donna Martin’s entire wardrobe in early seasons of Beverly Hills 90210. However, the floral trend wasn’t confined to the world of fashion. Edible flowers became a symbol of sophisticated haute cuisine; salads were strewn with violets and pansies while white wine spritzers were chilled with ice cubes containing suspended flower petals. Thankfully, along with all things floral and all things from the early ’90s, edible flowers are making a comeback!
Whether this is your first experience with the edible flower trend or it’s familiar territory, we’ll teach you how to buy and safely use flowers for cooking, baking, and cocktail-making.

Safety First: Buying and Selecting Edible Flowers

First things first: It’s important to buy flowers from reputable, organic farms and greenhouses specializing in edible flowers to ensure you’re consuming a product free from harmful pesticides and herbicides. Resist the urge to snip flowers from store-bought bouquets (there’s a good chance they’ve been sprayed with pesticides) and even from your own backyard (where there’s a chance the flowers may have inadvertently been exposed to pesticides).
Jan Billington, co-owner of Maddocks Farm Organics, an organic farm specializing in fresh edible flowers, is a firm believer in purchasing edible flowers from specialty farms for the taste alone. In particular, she loves the standout flavor of edible roses:
“Organic edible roses are a world apart from the insipid supermarket offering, which have no perfume and should most definitely not be eaten because the average florist rose has been sprayed up to 90 times with some very toxic chemicals. We grow the finest David Austin roses, and they all smell wonderful and all taste different. Some are sold to make chocolates; some [are sold for] jam, and we have just started working with a lovely little Cornish couple called Tinkture to make a rose gin. It is made with fresh rose petals, and the flavor is wonderful,” Billington tells HealthyWay.
Another advantage to buying edible flowers from specialty growers is the reduced risk of accidentally buying flowers that are inedible and/or poisonous. A 2017 article in The Guardian, “Tasty or toxic? Beware of the trend for edible flowers,” highlights the ways in which social media can inadvisably and accidentally promote the use of toxic flowers (narcissi, a beautiful flower that can cause painful sores and swelling, were used as an example). For more information on what to avoid, check out this list of 20 poisonous flowers.

Where to Buy Edible Flowers

Buying edible flowers from licensed growers will almost guarantee your flowers have been grown without the use of harmful pesticides in a sustainable, controlled environment. If you’re fortunate enough to live close to an edible flower farm you can actually visit the facilities and in some cases, pick your own flowers. Luckily, for those of us not in driving distance of an edible flower farm, there are still several options for ordering flowers online.
For a random assortment of fresh, hydroponically grown edible flowers, we love Melissa’s Assorted Edible Flowers (which uses next day air shipping in the U.S.).
If you’re in the United Kingdom, Maddocks Farm Organics will ship organic, fresh edible flowers via overnight courier.
Gourmet Sweet Botanicals specializes in fresh and crystalized edible flowers and will ship anywhere in the U.S. (and in Canada on certain days of the week) using FedEx Priority Overnight or UPS Next Day Air.

Using Edible Flowers in the Kitchen

Edible flowers are so much more than a garnish; preliminary research suggests some could be potentially rich sources of polyphenols and antioxidants, and they can be used to make tasty infusions, added to salads and other delicate dishes, or served as special ingredients in their own right.

“I love it when edible flowers are used as an ingredient within a recipe rather than just as a garnish on the side of the plate,” Billington says. “There are so many different flavors within the edible flower world, and this is often overlooked by chefs.”
If you want to explore the various flavors of edible flowers, try one of our top-five faves.

5 Beautiful (and Tasty!) Edible Flowers to Try

Rose Petals

Regularly used in Middle Eastern cooking, rose petals have a pleasant floral smell and taste. Use dried or fresh rose petals in your favorite gin-based cocktail, in this recipe for homemade harissa, or try them as a cute vegan topping for any dairy-free dessert!

Chive Blossoms

Chive blossoms are small purple flowers that have a faint, slightly sweet chive flavor. Use chive blossoms in a delicate salad with microgreens or try Billington’s favorite method. “Cutting chive flowers and steeping them in a white wine or white balsamic vinegar makes the most beautiful pink onion-flavored vinegar,” Billington says, “which is wonderful in salad dressing, and also extremely good for you.”

Violet Petals

Fresh violets add a gorgeous pop of purple to any salad or cocktail (an especially nice feature, as there are very few naturally-colored purple ingredients one can use to complement a green salad). The lightly perfumed taste of violets pairs well with sparkling wines such as prosecco and cava; try floating a single violet on top of the wine before serving.

Zucchini Blossoms

With their soft orange and yellow color, zucchini (or squash) blossoms taste like a milder version of summer squash. Zucchini blossoms are particularly delicious when they’ve been stuffed with delicate ricotta cheese and then gently pan-fried in olive oil or butter. For a gorgeous yet simple side dish, zucchini blossoms can be quickly sautéed and served with crème fraiche-spiked scrambled eggs.

Lavender

Lavender has a distinct, soapy taste that can quickly overpower all other flavors if it isn’t used judiciously. When used with a light touch, the taste of lavender is similar to that of mint and rosemary. Use small amounts of dried lavender in dough for cookies and scones, whipped into cream and butter, or as part of a dry rub for lamb and goat meat.
Now that you know which edible flowers are safe to consume, try using them yourself in this recipe for cold brew hibiscus flower iced tea.
Delightfully tangy and refreshing, homemade hibiscus tea (also called Agua de Jamaica, rosella, or sorrel depending on where you’re drinking it) is an easy way to enjoy the taste of edible flowers with very little effort. Dried hibiscus flowers can be purchased in Latin and Caribbean grocery stores, from greenhouses specializing in edible flowers, or online (we love these organic dried hibiscus flowers from Frontier Co-op). Unlike traditional iced tea, hibiscus tea doesn’t contain any strong bitter flavors and is free from caffeine (in fact, you’ll find cold brewed hibiscus tea tastes more like cranberry juice than tea).
This is a basic recipe for cold brew hibiscus flower tea, so for additional flavor try steeping slices of fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, or fresh mint leaves with the hibiscus flowers. If you plan on serving this tea to guests, try doubling the recipe and making elegant hibiscus flower tea ice cubes with the extra liquid.

Cold Brew Hibiscus Flower Iced Tea

Yield: 4 Cups of Cold Brew Hibiscus Flower Iced Tea

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup dried hibiscus flowers
  • 4 cups cold water (filtered if possible)
  • Fresh ginger, mint, or a cinnamon stick (optional)

Special Equipment:

  • Measuring cup
  • Pitcher
  • Long-handled spoon
  • Large tea ball or infuser (such as this FORLIFE Capsule Infuser)
  • Fine-mesh sieve (if you don’t have a large tea ball or infuser)

Method:

  1. Add the dried hibiscus flowers to the tea ball or infuser and place in the pitcher (or add the dried hibiscus flowers directly to the bottom of the pitcher).
  2. Cover the dried flowers with cold water and gently stir with a long-handled spoon. Refrigerate for a minimum of 12 hours and up to 24 hours (remove the hibiscus at this point to prevent bitter flavors from developing).
  3. Remove the tea ball or infuser (or pour the loose tea through a fine-mesh sieve). Serve cold with plenty of ice. Cold brewed hibiscus iced tea can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Don’t be a late bloomer—hop on board and see what the edible flower trend is all about for yourself.

Categories
In the Kitchen Nosh

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Stuffed Peppers (Plus 2 Recipes To Try At Home!)

Whenever I have a near-empty fridge, I make stuffed peppers. A fridge that is lacking in obvious ingredients forces you to get creative in the kitchen, and stuffed pepper recipes are a fantastic option when it comes to playing around with leftovers (from the fridge, freezer, and pantry). Think of bell peppers as a blank canvas just waiting to be filled with your favorite healthy ingredients!
We guide you through the entire process of making delicious stuffed peppers, from basic bell pepper prep and super-nutritious ingredient suggestions to recipes to try for yourself.

Basic Bell Pepper Prep for Stuffed Pepper Recipes

First things first, you’ll need to wash and dry the peppers. Next, cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise using a sharp chef’s knife. You want to end up with two pepper “boats” that can be stuffed with filling. Using a paring knife, trim away the white pith and seeds, leaving the stem intact for decorative purposes.
If the bell pepper halves are wobbly, you can even them out by making a shallow cut across the base of the pepper half so they’ll be able to stand up on their own. If you know you’ll be short on time, bell peppers can be prepped a day ahead and stored in a covered container in the fridge until you’re ready to fill them.
Now that you know how to prep your peppers, here are two tasty stuffed pepper recipes to try at home.

Tuscan-Style Turkey and Brown Rice Stuffed Peppers

These Tuscan-style stuffed peppers are perfect for weeknight suppers while still being elegant enough for a dinner party with friends. Serve these stuffed peppers with grilled or steamed asparagus and a big green salad with a citrusy dressing.

Nutrition Information*

Calories: 300
Protein: 18 grams
Dietary Fiber: 6 grams
Sugars: 6 grams
*Per serving, not including the optional grated cheese, fresh basil, or parsley

Time: 30 Minutes Active Time + 1 Hour Cook Time

Yield: 4 to 6 Servings (1 Whole Pepper per Serving)

Ingredients:

  • 4 to 6 sweet bell peppers, prepped (see above)
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 lb. ground turkey
  • ½ tsp. kosher salt
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 1 tsp. dried onion powder
  • 1 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp. dried chili flakes (or more, to taste)
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrated in hot water and then finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
  • 4 cups of roughly chopped kale, stems removed
  • 1 ½ cups chilled brown rice
  • ½ cup vegetable stock or water
  • Freshly grated parmesan or pecorino romano cheese (optional)
  • ½ cup flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
  • ½ cup fresh basil, cut in a thin chiffonade*

*To cut basil into a chiffonade, stack multiple basil leaves on top of one another and roll into a tight, cigar-shaped tube. Using a sharp paring or chef’s knife, cut the basil leaves across the width of the roll into fine ribbons.

Special Equipment:

  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Chef’s knife
  • Paring knife
  • Sauté pan (this model from Cuisinart will last you a lifetime and it looks great in any kitchen!)
  • Silicone or wooden spatula
  • 9” × 13” casserole dish
  • Aluminum foil

Method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
  2. Over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil to a large sauté pan before crumbling in the ground turkey and seasoning with ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt.
  3. Using a silicone or wooden spatula break the ground turkey apart and continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink inside.
  4. Transfer the cooked ground turkey to a bowl and wipe down the inside of the sauté pan with paper towel. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the sauté pan and return to medium heat.
  5. Sauté the shallot, dried onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and dried chili flakes in the oil until fragrant.
  6. Next, add the rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and kale.
  7. Continue to cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale has completely wilted.
  8. Turn the heat down to medium-low and add the cooked ground turkey and brown rice, gently stirring with the spatula until combined.
  9. Remove from heat and set aside.
  10. Using a large spoon, divide the ground turkey and brown rice mixture amongst the bell pepper halves.
  11. Evenly space the stuffed peppers in a 9”× 13” casserole dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray, adding ½ cup water or vegetable stock to the bottom of the dish.
  12. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Larger peppers may need up to 10 extra minutes (55 minutes total) baking time.
  13. Remove the foil and sprinkle liberally with parmesan or pecorino romano cheese, cooking the stuffed peppers under the broiler for another 5 to 8 minutes (keep an eye on the peppers to make sure they don’t burn).
  14. Serve the stuffed peppers while hot or at room temperature, garnishing with fresh parsley and basil before serving.

Vegetarian Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

With half your recommended daily allowance of dietary fiber, these filling vegetarian quinoa and black bean stuffed peppers are an ideal work lunch throughout the week. Serve with salsa or pico de gallo, guacamole, and Greek yogurt.

Nutrition Information*

Calories: 269
Protein: 12 grams
Dietary Fiber: 13 grams
Sugars: 9 grams
*Per serving, not including the optional crumbled cheese, scallions, or cilantro

Time: 30 Minutes Active Time + 1 Hour Cook Time

Yield: 4 to 6 servings (1 whole pepper per serving)

Ingredients:

  • 4 to 6 sweet bell peppers, prepped
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • ½ cup diced white onion
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (seeds and white pith removed)
  • 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
  • 2 Tbsp. chili powder (test the spice level before using and adjust as necessary)
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • ½ tsp. kosher salt
  • 1 ½ cups corn (fresh or frozen works best—avoid canned)
  • 1 cup thinly sliced zucchini
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup butternut squash, cut into a small dice (fresh or frozen will work)
  • One 15.5-oz. can of black beans, drained
  • 1 ½ cups cooked quinoa, chilled
  • 1 cup vegetable stock
  • Cooking spray
  • Crumbled cotija or mild feta cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 3 scallions thinly sliced, white and pale green parts only

Special Equipment:

  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Chef’s knife
  • Paring knife
  • Large sauté pan
  • Silicone or wooden spatula
  • Large spoon
  • 9” × 13” casserole dish
  • Aluminum foil

Method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
  2. Add the olive oil to a sauté pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion, jalapeño, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt to the pan.
  3. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes or until the onions have softened.
  4. Next, add the corn, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and butternut squash to the onion and spice mixture.
  5. Stirring frequently, cook the vegetables for 8 to 10 minutes or until softened.
  6. Add the black beans, quinoa, and ½ cup vegetable stock to the sauté pan, stirring until the stock has been absorbed.
  7. Using a spoon, divide the quinoa and black bean mixture amongst the bell pepper halves.
  8. Coat the bottom of a casserole dish with cooking spray and add the stuffed peppers halves.
  9. Add the remaining ½ cup of vegetable stock to the casserole dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
  10. Bake for 45 minutes; larger peppers may need up to 10 extra minutes (55 minutes total) baking time.
  11. Remove the foil from the casserole dish, crumble the cotija or feta cheese over the stuffed peppers. Run the stuffed peppers under the broiler until it begins to brown (it won’t melt). Remove from the oven.
  12. Serve the stuffed peppers hot or at room temperature. When ready to serve, sprinkle the stuffed peppers with plenty of fresh cilantro and sliced scallions.

Still not convinced you can nail homemade stuffed peppers? Check out our stuffed pepper FAQs:

Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Peppers that have been stuffed but not yet cooked can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge overnight. Just keep them covered with plastic wrap or in a reusable container. Take the stuffed peppers out of the fridge 20 minutes before you plan to cook them and then follow the baking directions outlined in the recipes above.

How long can I store cooked stuffed peppers in the fridge?

Refrigerated stuffed peppers that have already been cooked can be stored in the fridge, covered, for up to four days. Make extra stuffed peppers to keep in the fridge and you’ll have a highly nutritious and filling lunch to take to work throughout the week.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! When Andrea Hardy, RD at Ignite Nutrition makes her famous vegetarian Mediterranean Lentil-Stuffed Peppers, she always preps and freezes the bell peppers beforehand.
Hardy tells HealthyWay, “Stuffed peppers are a bit of a labor of love—they aren’t a 15-minute recipe—so I tend to batch cook and freeze them. Always pre-bake them first to soften them up; you can do this on the BBQ too, though! That way they don’t take too long to cook and are the right texture when you stuff them and bake them the second time.”
To freeze stuffed peppers, blanch the prepped pepper halves in boiling water for two to three minutes (or follow Hardy’s advice and grill them). This will help prevent the peppers from becoming slimy when they warm back up. Transfer the blanched peppers to a paper towel and let cool to room temperature before stuffing them with the cooked filling. Wrap each stuffed pepper with at least two layers of plastic wrap and store each wrapped pepper in a resealable freezer bag or container (these precautions will help prevent freezer burn). Stuffed peppers can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to eat the stuffed peppers, simply transfer them to a casserole dish, add a half cup of water or vegetable stock, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and bake from frozen. Depending on the size of the stuffed peppers, you may need to increase the baking time by up to 30 minutes (not including broiling time, which will be the same as indicated in the recipe).

How do I know my stuffed peppers are cooked?

Stuffed peppers are cooked when they’re warmed all the way through and feel hot throughout. Because the meat used in stuffed peppers is usually pre-cooked, the risk of potential cross-contamination is very low. Thanks to the aluminum foil used to cover the peppers as well as the addition of water or stock, the stuffed peppers are lightly steamed as they cook. For melted cheese or breadcrumbs toppings, running the peppers under the broiler for 5 minutes after baking will result in a pleasantly browned crust.

Are all bell peppers the same?

Despite the fact that peppers come in a rainbow of different colors, ranging anywhere from green to deep red, bell peppers all come from the same plant. Green bell peppers are still relatively unripe, yellow and orange bell peppers are just beginning to ripen, and red peppers are the most mature. All bell peppers contain an impressive amount of nutrients and are very low in calories, but since red peppers spend the longest amount of time on the vine (most vegetables have the highest nutritional value when picked at the height of maturity) they have a nutritional advantage over green peppers in terms of beta-carotene and vitamins A and C.

What’s the best cooking method for stuffed peppers?

Stuffed peppers can be cooked in the oven, on the grill, in the microwave, or in a slow cooker. Although the microwave and slow cooker are convenient, stuffed peppers cooked in this manner are often quite soggy. The oven method produces the best results in terms of overall texture and taste because it’s the driest cooking method (even though the stuffed peppers are still being lightly steamed under the aluminum foil). Five minutes under the broiler at the end of the cooking time helps to achieve a lightly browned topping and adds a pleasantly crispy texture to the finished stuffed peppers.

Why are stuffed peppers so good for you?

Stuffed peppers offer a huge array of nutrients in a compact meal. Hardy loves stuffed peppers for their positive effect on gut health. Her take?

I love stuffed peppers. From a nutrition perspective, you can pack them with things that are high in fiber to help feed the bacteria in your gut. When your gut bacteria are well-fed they produce anti-inflammatory compounds and keep your gut healthy. My favorites tend to be lentils, as they’re soft and the texture blends with almost anything, but I’ve done black beans too for Mexican stuffed peppers!

Deborah Murphy MS, RDN, and creator of the food blog Dietitian Debbie Dishes (try her incredible Vegetarian TVP Stuffed Peppers) praises stuffed peppers for their generous nutritional impact:

I love stuffed peppers because depending on the filling you use, they are essentially a complete meal in one dish. Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for your filling to boost the fiber content and add some beans for a healthy source of plant-based protein. The bell peppers themselves are also high in nutrients like Vitamin C [giving you more than 100 percent of your] daily value, vitamin B6, and potassium.

Stuffed Pepper Tips and Hacks From the Pros

Both Hardy and Murphy are seasoned pros when it comes to stuffed pepper recipes and they have some helpful tips for making them at home. For example, Hardy likes to work around a theme. She elaborates:

I typically choose a “theme” and base my ingredients off that. My two go-tos besides my Mediterranean peppers [are Mexican and Greek-inspired]. For Mexican: cilantro, rice, black beans, ground beef, peppers, onion, cheese, and taco seasoning. For Greek: rice, feta, olives, peppers, onion, and Greek seasoning.

Murphy also likes to be inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean and recommends you stuff your peppers with rice, chickpeas, feta cheese, and olives. Looking for some new vegetarian protein options? Murphy loves tempeh.
“As a vegetarian, I always try to incorporate some source of plant-based protein like beans or tempeh into my stuffed peppers,” she says. If you aren’t familiar with tempeh, it is made from fermented soybeans which are pressed into a patty that can be sliced or crumbled depending on the recipe. Adding tempeh to stuffed peppers is a tasty way to try it in a more familiar dish.
If you’re a fan of heat, try stuffing larger spicy peppers with your favorite filling (poblano and banana peppers work well, just make sure to wear gloves when removing the seeds and white pith to avoid unexpected contact burns).

Stuffed Peppers: the Perfect Meal-in-One

When you select your fillings with nutrition in mind, stuffed peppers are literally stuffed with nutrients; they’re full of important vitamins and minerals, high in dietary fiber, can be made ahead or brought to work for lunch, and can be customized to suit any taste. Although they require more time than some other recipes, much of the work can be in advance (plus, the filling can be mixed and peppers can be stuffed by younger kitchen helpers!). They’re also the perfect meal for when you need to clean out your fridge or freezer before a big grocery haul.
Super-nutritious, great for gut-health, and endlessly customizable? It’s time to try one of our delicious stuffed pepper recipes for yourself!