Tag: gluten-free

Healthy Granola made without nuts, oatmeal cookie granola with sunflower butter

Upgraded Classic: Nut-Free Oatmeal Cookie Granola Recipe

My nut-free oatmeal cookie granola is a classic granola recipe without any dodgy stuff that you’ll find in many store-bought mixes. I use a small amount of maple syrup, but mostly rely on the oats and dried fruit to provide natural sweetness. Coconut flour helps the oats clump into that familiar granola texture! I looove using Sunflower Seed Butter in baked goods. It’s a nut-free alternative that is typically well-tolerated and provides great healthy fats. It’s a staple in my hormone healing diet. This is also a great choice for kids who have issues with peanuts or tree nuts. I like keeping a batch of Nut-Free Oatmeal Cookie Granola on hand for a quick snack. It’s great on its own, paired with a non-dairy yogurt, OR as an easy topping on baked apples. Related: Upgraded Classic: Cowboy Cookies This nut-free oatmeal cookie granola bastes the house in aromas of fall as it bakes. The warm cinnamon and sweet crunch are a perfect pairing for cozy fall days. No need for fall-scented candles when you’ve got this around! What is Sunflower Seed Butter?  Just like other nut butters, sunflower seed butter is simply a blend of sunflower seeds until they create a creamy consistency. Sunflower seeds are high in Vitamin E and Magnesium. You can find sunflower butter in most grocery stores, just remember to check for added ingredients. I like Thrive Market’s Sunflower Butter that’s made with ONLY ground sunflower seeds.   What should I watch out for in store-bought Granola? Many commercial granola mixes add cane sugar, brown rice syrup, or other refined sweeteners. They’ll sometimes use starches or wheat flours to get that ‘clumping’ effect. Lastly, I always check for refined vegetable oils (like canola or safflower). Often, store-bought granola is far from a ‘health food’ due to these hidden additives. I like a well-balanced fat:carbohydrate ratio to prevent blood sugar spikes and the best way to ensure that happens is by controlling the ingredients yourself! What modifications can I make? If you prefer to make this coconut-free, you can replace the coconut flour with oat flour and omit the coconut flakes. Use olive or avocado oil in place of the coconut oil. You can mix up the fruit add-ins or make it with dark chocolate chips! If you don’t have maple syrup, use honey instead. When ingredient shopping, I use Thrive Market. They have the best prices for organic, shelf-stable products like oats, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, and maple syrup. Click here to get a free gift with your first order. You May Also Like: Oat Milk Blueberry Chia Pudding Gluten-Free Oat and Almond Bread Shop This Article: DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

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Healthy Thanksgiving Recipe Round-Up: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free Recipes for All

Thanksgiving is upon us, and I’m thankful to get to gather & celebrate again. I always start planning my thanksgiving menu WELL in advance and I’m always looking for healthy thanksgiving recipes as alternatives to classic dishes. Anyone else??  This year, I’ve done the work for you and gathered my favorite HEALTHY Thanksgiving Recipes to add to the table. Disclaimer: Perhaps I should say, “HEALTHIER” Thanksgiving Recipes – since I believe in lifestyle balance. What I can promise- REAL food with REAL ingredients.  I’ve been gluten-free and dairy-free for a long time, and I’m all about accommodating my guests on special diets. With a little forethought, it’s surprisingly simple to host a GF/DF holiday with healthy Thanksgiving recipes.  Related: Thanksgiving Prep Got any good healthy Thanksgiving recipes for me? Leave me a comment so I can check them out! Starters 1. Harvest Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette – (by Lexi’s Clean Kitchen) 2. Savory-Sweet Butternut Squash Dip (by The Facility) 3. Spicy Roasted Cashews (by Fed and Fit) 4. Grain Free Crusty Rolls (by Against All Grain) 5. Cranberry Pepita Salsa (by Noshtastic) Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes: Sides / Vegetables 1. Brussels with Pancetta + Cranberries (by ZenBelly) 2. Hasselback Butternut Squash (by Paleomg) 3. Maple Mashed Sweet Potatoes (by Real Food Dietitians) 4. GF Cornbread Stuffing (by Ambitious Kitchen) 5. Loaded Cauliflower Mash (by Balanced Bites) 6. Eggplant + Wild Mushroom Stuffing (by Paleomom) 7. Upgraded Green Bean Casserole (by A Girl Worth Saving) 8. Maple Dijon Carrots (by Our Balanced Bowl) Bonus: Umami Gravy (by Nom Nom Paleo) Desserts 1. Chocolate Pecan Pie (by Paleo Running Momma) 2. Pumpkin Pie Cookie Crisp (by Paleomg) 3. Cashew Cream Pumpkin Layer Bars (by Kate Daugherty) 4. AIP Apple Crisp (by Lichen Paleo, Loving AIP) Drinks 1. Apple Ginger Fizz Mocktail (by Kate Daugherty) 2. Harvest Mule (by Primal Palate) 3. Thanksgiving Punch (by Thyme & Joy) What healthy Thanksgiving recipes look best to you? Are you going for a gluten-free, dairy-free Thanksgiving this year? I order my healthy pantry staples from Thrive Market. They’ve got the best deals on alternative baking products (like gluten-free flour) and paleo snacks. Click here to get a discount on your first order! Recipe Summary: Starters 1. Harvest Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette – (by Lexi’s Clean Kitchen) 2. Savory-Sweet Butternut Squash Dip (by The Facility) 3. Spicy Roasted Cashews (by Fed and Fit) 4. Grain Free Crusty Rolls (by Against All Grain) 5. Cranberry Pepita Salsa (by Noshtastic) Sides 1. Brussels with Pancetta + Cranberries (by ZenBelly) 2. Hasselback Butternut Squash (by Paleomg) 3. Maple Mashed Sweet Potatoes (by Real Food Dietitians) 4. GF Cornbread Stuffing (by Ambitious Kitchen) 5. Loaded Cauliflower Mash (by Balanced Bites) 6. Eggplant + Wild Mushroom Stuffing (by Paleomom) 7. Upgraded Green Bean Casserole (by A Girl Worth Saving) 8. Maple Dijon Carrots (by Our Balanced Bowl) Umami Gravy (by Nom Nom Paleo) Desserts 1. Chocolate Pecan Pie (by Paleo Running Momma) 2. Pumpkin Pie Cookie Crisp (by Paleomg) 3. Pumpkin Cashew Layer Bars (by Kate Daugherty) 4. AIP Apple Crisp (by Lichen Paleo, Loving AIP) Drinks 1. Apple Ginger Fizz Mocktail (by Kate Daugherty) 2. Harvest Mule (by Primal Palate) 3. Thanksgiving Punch (by Thyme & Joy) You May Also Like: Gluten-Free Morning Glory Muffins Gluten-Free Oat and Almond Bread Shop This Article: DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

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Simple Homemade Hummus with real ingredients

The Secret to the Best Homemade Hummus: Way Better than Store Bought

Homemade Hummus is a comfort food. No debate.  Sure, store-bought hummus is a quick option, but I’m here to change your mind: homemade hummus is EASY, QUICK, CHEAP and miiiiiiiiiles above any store-bought brand.  I’ve adapted this recipe from one of my favorite cookbooks lately, The Gaza Kitchen. I love a cookbook that goes beyond recipes and gets into history, cooking methods, and lifestyle of the area it highlights. THIS is that book.  Hummus is most simply a blend of chickpeas and tahini (sesame seed butter). However, adding acid from citrus and spices elevate this into the creamy, comforting spread we can’t get enough of. I like mixing things up with different add-ins to get variety from batch to batch.  Related: Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Perfect Bars One of my favorite aspects of hummus is that it is so versatile. It’s divine as a dip with raw veggies, naan bread, and chips; but it can also be used as a spread, a dressing, and as a sauce for pasta and stir-fry.  My foundation for good homemade hummus starts with these ingredients: -Chickpeas -Tahini (also called Tahina) -Lemon Juice -Olive Oil -Greek Yogurt  -Garlic, Salt  I will then ‘dress it up’ with various add-ins: -Paprika -Za’atar -Sundried Tomatoes -Cilantro, Basil, or Parsley The quality of ingredients you choose will make or break your homemade hummus. I like checking local Mediterranean markets for red tahina paste. If that isn’t an option check World Market for high-quality Tahini.  I buy organic chickpeas from Thrive Market. You can use cooked, canned chickpeas or take an extra step to soak and pressure cook dried chickpeas.  For a dairy-free option, you can leave out the Greek Yogurt. The texture will be a bit less creamy, but still a step above store bought blends. Replace the yogurt with aquafaba to get your desired consistency. Sometimes I’ll leave a few whole chickpeas for topping (plus a decadent extra drizzle of olive oil) and sometimes I’ll blend them all in. This is more for presentation and aesthetics— always a concern in my cooking.  Serve hummus warm or cold, it’ll keep in the refrigerator for several days.  I order my ingredients from Thrive Market. I find shelf-stable products at cheaper than grocery stores. The AIP-filter is awesome for navigating a tricky diet! You May Also Like: Oat Milk Blueberry Chia Pudding Gluten-Free Oat and Almond Bread Shop This Article: DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

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Top foods to avoid with leaky gut

The Top Three Foods to Avoid with Leaky Gut

“Leaky Gut”, otherwise known as Intestinal Hyper-permeability happens when the tight junctions between cells lining the gut break apart. These gaps allow undigested food particles, pathogens, and other foreign substances to easily pass into the bloodstream. In turn, the body mounts an immune response to deal with “invaders” leading to inflammation, autoimmunity, loss of blood-brain-barrier function and other downstream effects. >>Read more about Leaky Gut from The Facility<< There are three foods to avoid with leaky gut! While Leaky Gut was once thought to only affect those with serious medical conditions, we now know that even slight increases in intestinal permeability can cause chronic health issues including functional bowel disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and mood disorders.  It’s true there are lots of things you can do to repair a leaky gut and improve gut barrier function, one of the first steps of gut healing is avoiding trigger foods that cause the breakdown of tight junctions. Here are my top three foods to avoid with leaky gut. Related: Mindful Eating: Finding a Healthy Relationship with Food First, you remove the triggers.. then you repair the lining.. So, What are the top three foods to avoid with leaky gut? Grains In particular, gluten-containing grains like wheat, spelt, rye, and barley can exacerbate leaky gut by inducing the release of Zonulin, a measurable toxin that changes the apical structure of intestinal cells. The Zonulin release has been linked to the Gliadin protein, which can be present in gluten-containing foods as well as grains that mimic gluten.  Sugar Refined white sugar and added natural sugars can cause imbalances in the gut microbiome by feeding “bad” bacteria, like yeasts. When the gut microbiome is imbalanced, the innate defense is interrupted and tight junctions are more vulnerable. Fructose has been implicated as one of the key carbohydrates involved in the regulation of leaky gut. Dairy Conventional milk products can be problematic for those with leaky gut syndrome or hyper-permeability. Dairy is one of the top food sensitivities, and may present cross-reactions to other food allergies. Lactose, a milk sugar, can exacerbate symptoms of leaky gut and milk proteins can create inflammatory responses.  *There is some evidence that fermented, organic dairy may be beneficial for the gut microbiome and thus a protective food for intestinal hyperpermeability. While individual food tolerances can vary, a gut-healing diet that excludes grains, sugar, and dairy is a great place to start. The most effective nutrition strategy will avoid these potential triggers while including gut-supporting foods like bone broth, fermented foods, and healthy fats. Not sure where to start? Click Here to get my 7-Day Leaky Gut Diet. What’s included in the Leaky Gut Diet? -Evidence-based meal plan that includes essential foods for gut healing while excluding all damaging foods -Simple, easy to follow recipes  -An itemized shopping list -A prep guide to minimize confusion and time spent in the kitchen -Education on key nutrients like fiber, zinc, and probiotics. >>Download a sample recipe here: Gut Healing Green Smoothie<< CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE LEAKY GUT DIET PDF! Stear clear of these foods to avoid with Leaky Gut and heal inflammation! You can save even more time (and money) by shopping pantry staples with Thrive Market! You May Also Like: Mindful Eating: Finding a Healthy Mindset with Food What Is the Carnivore Diet? Shop This Article: DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

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Vegan Pumpkin Cashew Cream Layer Bars

Pumpkin Cashew Cream Layer Bars: Dairy-Free Indulgence for Fall!

Fall is on the way, and I’m just as excited as any other year. I’m always on the lookout early for the best pumpkin recipes, and luckily I have Once Upon A Pumpkin to thank for the inspiration. She starts pumpkin season on July 5 and I am here for it. These frozen Pumpkin Cashew Cream Layer Bars are a perfect transition recipe. My Vegan Pumpkin Layer Bars are inspired by her No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe, only modified to eliminate dairy, almonds and of course add-in the best non-dairy milk on the planet: Willa’s Oat Milk. These Pumpkin Cashew Cream Layer Bars are a big hit for kids and adults alike! Plan ahead, because they get even better overnight – the cashew cream sets and the spices develop. I have a feeling they’ll be a staple at group gatherings all fall. Related: Pumpkin Perfect Bars If you’re looking for an easy mix and assemble type of side dish- here it is. These Layer Bars come together quickly: with allergen-friendly ingredients that keep you feeling your best.  “Vegan Pumpkin Cashew Cream Layer Bars” are a perfect treat that will impress your friends and family. They don’t even have to know how healthy they are! Cashews are often used in vegan cooking to replace heavy cream sauces, and when blended with honey or maple syrup, it takes on a cream cheese-like texture. The nutty base plus the creamy oat milk and cashews are a perfect marriage. Pumpkin just enhances it all! I’m all for pumpkin year-round. It’s an excellent source of beta carotene, vitamin c, vitamin e, fiber, and potassium. The rich orange color indicates it is a vibrant source of phytonutrients. I’m always looking to eat the rainbow! What’s In Pumpkin Cashew Cream Layer Bars? Oat + Nut Base Ingredients: -Rolled Oats -Pecans or Walnuts -Unsweetened Flaked Coconut -Pitted Medjool Dates -Honey or Maple Syrup -Coconut Oil -Vanilla Extract “Cheesecake” Layer Ingredients: -Raw, Soaked Cashews –Willa’s Unsweetened Original Oatmilk -Thrive Market Pureed Pumpkin -Honey -Pumpkin Pie Spice or Cinnamon Impress your friends with these Vegan Pumpkin Cashew Cream Layer Bars made with Oat Milk! My favorite Pumpkin is Thrive Market Organic Pumpkin. I always stock up in my Thrive Market boxes- year round! I order my oat milk directly from Willa’s! You may find this in your local market, but the direct-to-consumer sale means you get a trusted product from a small woman-owned company. View this post on Instagram A post shared by THE FACILITY 📍Denver (@thefacilitydenver) You May Also Like: Oat Milk Blueberry Chia Pudding Gluten-Free Oat and Almond Bread Shop This Article: DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

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AIP Lemon Coconut Power Balls autoimmune protocol snack idea

AIP Lemon Coconut Balls: Snacking on a Restricted Diet

Lemon Coconut Balls are the AIP-approved snack you’ve been looking for. Not to mention keto-friendly and loaded with healthy fat and protein. It’s summertime and my fridge is filled with all things bright and citrusy. I like having quick snacks that I can grab when I’m living an active life: out hiking, biking, paddle boarding, and exploring. Instead of reaching for a packaged snack, I take time to prep some clean-ingredient treats that I can store in the freezer. These AIP lemon coconut balls are just that! The best part? They are gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, nut-free, seed-free, and hater-free. Unless you don’t like coconut. I like this recipe because it fits within the restriction of the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP Diet). It can be tough to find bars and snacks that are nut-free! My AIP lemon coconut balls come together with the help of melt-in-your-mouth coconut manna. If you don’t know what coconut manna is yet, it is to coconut what peanut butter is to peanuts. A concentrated spread made ONLY with coconut. Delicious, clean, and filled with medium-chain fatty acids! Related: Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Perfect Bars If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, AND flavor-packed snack- here it is. These lemon coconut power balls come together quickly: with super-clean ingredients that keep you feeling your best.  “Lemon Coconut Balls” are a perfect quick snack that will help you reach your protein goals while maintaining a restricted diet. Try these mid-morning or mid-afternoon for a boost to get you through the day. There’s room for substitutions here, but this is my go-to ingredient list: -Unsweetened Shredded Coconut -Coconut Butter -Grass-Fed Collagen Peptides -Lemon Juice -Lemon Zest -Maple Syrup -Vanilla Extract -Sea salt Liven things up with these bright, citrusy AIP Lemon Coconut Power Balls! My coconut obsession is Nutiva Coconut Manna. I always order mine through Thrive Market! I order my ingredients from Thrive Market. I find shelf-stable products at cheaper than grocery stores. The AIP-filter is awesome for navigating a tricky diet! View this post on Instagram A post shared by THE FACILITY 📍Denver (@thefacilitydenver) You May Also Like: Oat Milk Blueberry Chia Pudding Gluten-Free Oat and Almond Bread Shop This Article: DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

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Fresh Summer Pasta with Lemon and Green Peas made with Willa's Oat Milk

One Pot Spinach & Green Pea Pasta: With Willa’s Oat Milk

Spring has sprung, summer’s on the way, and I’m looking for ways to lighten up my meals. I enjoy leaning into seasonal eating and there is a natural transition into brighter flavors as the weather warms. This lightened up Spinach & Green Pea pasta dish brings that brightness with lemon and fresh greens. It’s still made all-in-one-pot for quick prep and cleanup! This pasta dish is great warm, but it shines as a leftover cool pasta salad the next-day! This meal gets bonus points with a gluten-free pasta, dairy-free milk, and protein from broth. It’s clean as can be and I feel good about eating it. Oat milk offers a great creaminess without heaviness. Plus, it’s dairy-free and vegan! For the ultimate sugar-free, clean, dish I use Willa’s Unsweetened Original Oat Milk. Related: Gluten-Free Oat + Almond Bread If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, AND flavor-packed meal- here it is. This dish comes together quickly: with super-clean ingredients that keep you feeling your best.  “One Pot Spinach & Green Pea Pasta” is a perfect quick dinner or lunch that will help you reach your micronutrient goals. If you need a protein boost, add shrimp, chicken, or fish. You can also go completely plant-based by replacing the bone broth with a vegetable broth. There’s room for substitutions here, but this is my go-to ingredient list: -Gluten-Free Chickpea Pasta –Homemade Bone Broth -Garlic, Onions, Herbs -Frozen Peas and Carrots -Fresh Baby Spinach -Lemon –Willa’s Unsweetened Original Oatmilk Lighten things up with this Fresh, Light Pasta cooked with Oat Milk! My newest pasta find is Chickpea Penne. I always order mine through Thrive Market! I order my oat milk directly from Willa’s! You may find this in your local market, but the direct-to-consumer sale means you get a trusted product from a small woman-owned company. Click here to get $10 off your first order! View this post on Instagram A post shared by THE FACILITY 📍Denver (@thefacilitydenver) You May Also Like: Oat Milk Blueberry Chia Pudding Gluten-Free Oat and Almond Bread Shop This Article: DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

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Blueberry Chia Oat Milk Pudding – with Willa’s Oat Milk

Looking for ways to change up your breakfast routine? Chia Pudding is a great alternative because it can be made days in advance and it contains excellent fiber and Omegas from seeds. Willa’s oat milk works great for extra carbohydrates and flavor. I used Willa’s Organic Unsweetened Oat Milk in this recipe. Here’s why Willa’s is the only oat milk I will use. Chia pudding is versatile because there are plenty of topping options! For a more filling treat, try adding more fruit, or some granola for crunch. Change up the flavor profile with different herbs. I love pairing blueberries and basil with coconut cream. Other Willa’s Recipes: Pumpkin Spice Oat Milk Creamer Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread Shop this Recipe:

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Gluten-Free, Oat + Almond Maple Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin is such a perfect pairing for gluten-free baking. Often, GF flours tend to be very dry and tasteless. However, pumpkin add moisture and gives breads, muffins, and cakes a “normal” texture. I used a combination of Oat Flour (which is JUST ground whole oats) and Almond Flour (JUST almond meal). Many gluten-free flours use gums and starches. These are helpful for mimicking the binding quality of gluten, but I found unnecessary for this type of sweet bread. The less-processed and closer-to-whole-food my diet can be, the better I feel. This bread isn’t overly sweet, but I put chocolate on EVERYTHING…. so there was no exception here. I didn’t add them into the batter, but simply sprinkled sugar-free chocolate chips on top! Scrumptious! Shop this recipe: I also get a lot of my baking staples from THRIVE MARKET. New to Thrive Market? It is an online marketplace for healthy foods, home products, clean beauty, pet supplies, and more. Low Prices and great discounts on top brands like EPIC, Primal Kitchen, Siete, and Wild Planet. I shop my pantry essentials regularly from Thrive Market to save money. Some of my favorites include: Coconut Oil, Collagen Peptides, Maple Syrup, Cashew Butter, and Sardines. Join today and save 25% on your first order!!

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