Seven-Layer Salad

This makeover of a Midwestern classic tops layers of lettuce, peas, bell pepper and tomatoes with a creamy, tangy dressing. The salad stays fresh underneath until it’s served and gets even better when held overnight.

Ingredients

• 8 cups shredded romaine lettuce
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes, or quartered cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 1/2 cup sliced scallions
• 3/4 cup nonfat plain yogurt
• 3/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons cider vinegar
• 1-2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
• 3 strips cooked bacon, crumbled

Instructions

Step 1

Place lettuce in a large bowl. Layer peas, bell pepper, tomatoes, celery and scallions on top.

Step 2

Whisk yogurt, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar to taste, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth. Spread the dressing evenly over the top of the salad (an offset spatula is handy for this, if you have one). Sprinkle with cheese, basil and bacon. Serve room temperature or chilled.

Signs You Should Get Tested for Gluten Sensitivity or Celiac Disease

Have you gone gluten-free because you’re convinced that the protein is giving you gastrointestinal (GI) issues? If you haven’t talked to a doc, that might be a mistake. A new study shows that many people who adopt a gluten-free diet haven’t been appropriately tested for celiac disease.

Researchers from Eastern Health Clinical School at Monash University and Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, recruited 144 people who said they suffered from non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). Turns out, 44 percent of participants had initiated a gluten-free diet without any medical supervision—and 69 percent of them hadn’t gotten the necessary testing for celiac disease (It’s important to get tested by a doc before you start a gluten-free routine because it’s hard to tell if the protein is a problem for you after it’s already been eliminated from your system).

Another interesting fact from the study: Seventy-two percent of participants didn’t even end up meeting the criteria for NCGS. While 62 percent of this group fell into the category because researchers couldn’t rule out celiac disease for them, 24 percent continued to have gastrointestinal issues despite following a gluten-free diet (irritable bowl syndrome or a wheat allergy can both cause similar symptoms).

You shouldn’t be self-diagnosing a gluten issue. If you think you might have one, ask about the test for celiac disease so you don’t have complications down the road. How do you know if you should book an appointment? Gina Sam, M.D., director of the Mount Sinai Gastrointestinal Motility Center at The Mount Sinai Hospital, says these symptoms are telltale signs:

• You have chronic GI symptoms. These include severe or recurrent diarrhea, and abdominal distension or bloating.
• You’re deficient in iron, folate, or vitamin B12. Since untreated celiac disease damages certain parts of the intestine where these vitamins are absorbed, deficiencies can be a tip-off that you have an issue.
• You have family history. Even if you’re asymptomatic, first-degree relatives of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of celiac disease should definitely get tested.

How does celiac disease present? And what about other gluten-related disorders?

Celiac disease is often referred to as a “clinical chameleon” because of its varied presentations, ranging from malabsorption to fatigue to depression. These presentations and other signs and symptoms of celiac disease can often overlap with other conditions. Some individuals may not present with any symptoms, a subset of patients that are estimated to make up as much as 38% of the diagnosed population. In fact, experts assess that the majority of patients in the general population present with symptoms that are below the threshold of clinical detection, causing them to remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with another condition. Lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome are two common misdiagnoses.

Once thought to primarily affect children and present with only malabsorptive symptoms, the face of modern celiac disease has changed. It is now recognized as one of the most common lifelong disorders in Europe and in the U.S, with an increased prevalence of fourfold since 1950 in the U.S.

Celiac disease can develop at any time and can be diagnosed at any age. It is important to note that, at present, celiac disease is most frequently diagnosed in the fourth to fifth decade of life. Although celiac disease impacts both men and women, at this time it is diagnosed largely in females with recent research indicating that 60% to 70% of those diagnosed with celiac disease are women. The healthcare seeking behaviors of women, and perhaps even symptoms, are thought to largely impact this difference.

The varied and sometimes nonspecific manifestations of celiac disease can make it challenging to diagnose. As a result, 95% of the 3 million Americans with celiac disease currently remain undiagnosed. Left untreated, persons with celiac disease have nearly a fourfold increased risk of death. Other complications include, but are not limited to, bone disease, reproductive health problems and decreased quality of life.

It is vital that primary care providers and other physicians learn about the multiple ways in which celiac disease can present and have a heightened suspicion among their patient populations. You play a pivotal role in identifying individuals at high risk for celiac disease and performing serological testing, the first step in diagnosing celiac disease.

Know the Symptoms

For many years, symptoms of malabsorption such as diarrhea, weight loss, steatorrhoea or growth failure were considered the primary markers of celiac disease. These signs and symptoms are known as “classical celiac disease.”

We now know that many celiac patients do not experience symptoms of malabsorption at all, but instead present with extra-intestinal symptoms or non-classical symptoms. Still yet, others may not present with clinically evident symptoms of celiac disease, thereby falling below the threshold of clinical detection. These patients can be classified as having “subclinical celiac disease”. Some of these patients may not even see a difference upon starting a gluten-free diet, although it is still necessary that they strictly follow it.

The journey to diagnosis in individuals with subclinical celiac disease is often started when lab results indicative of celiac disease are seen, such as iron deficiency anemia, osteoporosis and abnormal liver function tests. Fatigue is commonly experienced, although it is difficult for patients to detect as abnormal. These patients often do notice a substantial increase in energy after initiating a gluten-free diet.

In addition to patients presenting with signs of malabsorption or little to no symptoms at all, common clinical presentations include:

• Unexplained iron deficiency anemia
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Ataxia
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Dermatitis herpetiformis
• Alopecia
• Aphthous stomatitis
• Recurrent miscarriages or unexplained infertility
• Delayed puberty
• Osteopenia and osteoporosis
• Dental enamel defects
• Vitamin or mineral deficiencies (Common deficiencies include: iron, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin B12)

Within hours to days after gluten ingestion, patients develop these symptoms:

• abdominal pain
• eczema and/or rash
• headache
• foggy mind
• fatigue
• diarrhea
• depression
• anemia
• numbness in the legs, arms or fingers
• joint pain

Five to Try: Gluten-Free Bars

Gluten-Free Grains

DYI Healing Cuticle Oil Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tbsp. of hemp oil
• 2 tbsp. of grapeseed oil
• 7 drops of tea tree essential oil

DIRECTIONS:

1. Combine all 3 oils in a small bowl.
2. Divide mixture into 2 glass dropper bottles (or just use one)
3. Stir every few minutes until all ingredients are melted and combined.
4. Apply over your cuticles and massage well.

Posted on August 14, 2016August 18, 2016Categories 4 BEAUTY, ARTICLES, FOOD & RECIPES, SKIN CARELeave a comment on DYI Healing Cuticle Oil Recipe

Matcha Tea

Deep Fried Cheesy Avocado Roll

Mozzarella Stick Onion Rings

The MIND Diet May Help Prevent Alzheimer’s

Want another great reason to eat healthy? The food choices you make daily might lower your odds of getting Alzheimer’s disease, some scientists say.

Researchers have found that people who stuck to a diet that included foods like berries, leafy greens, and fish had a major drop in their risk for the memory-sapping disorder, which affects more than 5 million Americans over age 65.

The eating plan is called the MIND diet. Here’s how it works.

Brain-Friendly Foods

MIND stands for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. It’s similar to two other healthy meal plans: the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet.

But the MIND approach “specifically includes foods and nutrients that medical literature and data show to be good for the brain, such as berries,” says Martha Clare Morris, ScD, director of nutrition and nutritional epidemiology at Rush University Medical Center.

You eat things from these 10 food groups:

• Green leafy vegetables (like spinach and salad greens): At least six servings a week
• Other vegetables: At least one a day
• Nuts: Five servings a week
• Berries: Two or more servings a week
• Beans: At least three servings a week
• Whole grains: Three or more servings a day
• Fish: Once a week
• Poultry (like chicken or turkey): Two times a week
• Olive oil: Use it as your main cooking oil.
• Wine: One glass a day

You avoid:

• Red meat: Less than four servings a week
• Butter and margarine: Less than a tablespoon daily
• Cheese: Less than one serving a week
• Pastries and sweets: Less than five servings a week
• Fried or fast food: Less than one serving a week

The Benefits

One study showed that people who stuck to the MIND diet lowered their risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 54%. That’s big. But maybe even more importantly, researchers found that adults who followed the diet only part of the time still cut their risk of the disease by about 35%.

On the other hand, people who followed the DASH and Mediterranean diets “moderately” had almost no drop in their Alzheimer’s risk, Morris says.

Scientists need to do more research on the MIND approach, “but it’s a very promising start. It shows that what you eat can make an impact on whether you develop late-onset Alzheimer’s,” which is the most common form of the disease, says Cecilia Rokusek, a registered dietitian at Nova Southeastern University.

Should You Follow the MIND Diet?

Even if you don’t have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or other risk factors, you may still want to try this eating plan. It focuses on nutritious whole foods, so “it’s not just good for your brain. It’s good your heart and overall health, too,” says Majid Fotuhi, MD, PhD. He is the chairman and CEO of the Memosyn Neurology Institute.

One of the best things about the plan is that you don’t have to stick to it perfectly to see benefits, Rokusek says. “That makes it more likely you’ll follow it for a long time,” she says. And the longer people eat the MIND way, the lower their risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease, Morris says.

If you do decide to make your diet more MIND-like, Rokusek recommends you take a few extra steps. “Keep your portions in check, and be careful about how food is prepared. Sauces, breading, and oils can add extra calories and hidden ingredients like sugar,” she says. “Make a point to drink several glasses of water a day, too.”

Last, understand that even though diet plays a big role, “it’s only one aspect of Alzheimer’s disease,” Fotuhi says. So get regular exercise and manage your stress to lower your risk even more, he says.

Has Our Society Steered Away From Natures Remedies?

There are so many things that we can use that were put on this earth to heal and fuel our bodies. Why have we come to assume this isn’t the case anymore?  Sometimes you just need to get back to the basics and re-evaluate.

Nature has been providing medicines to treat our diseases, relieve our suffering and fuel our bodies for many thousands of years. 

Nature has been making biologically active compounds for close to 4 billion years (and conducting its own “clinical trials” on these compounds). The uniformity of all living things is remarkable, particularly at the genetic and molecular level. Plants, animals, and microbes contain virtually an endless supply of potential medicines for human diseases.

Some compounds from plants that have been particularly important for human medicine include: morphine from the Opium Poppy and aspirin from the White Willow Tree. Tropical plants such as the Madagascar, Rosy or Periwinkle have yielded vinblastine (which has revolutionized the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, turning a disease that was once uniformly fatal into one that can now be totally cured in many patients) and vincristine (doing  the same for acute childhood leukemia). We are seeing numerous preclinical studies that CDB (part of the marijuana plant that does not give you a “High”)  is a viable treatment for people suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, nausea, rheumatoid arthritis, schizophrenia, diabetes, PTSD, alcoholism, strokes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. CBD has been shown to suppress colon cancer tumors in mice and to kill breast cancer cells in lab studies. CBD also has anti-inflammatory, neuro-protective, and anti-oxidant properties. Anti-oxidants are thought to fight degenerative diseases and aging.

Many people who have used CBD attest that it worked on them or their family members conditions when none of the standard prescriptions prescribed by their doctors had worked.

Medicines from animals include: the ACE inhibitors (which are among the most effective medicines known for treating high blood pressure) from the Pit Viper and AZT (azidothymidine) used in the treatment of HIV-AIDS, patterned after compounds made by the marine sponge.

Microbes have given us nearly all of our antibiotics such as penicillin, the cholesterol-lowering statins, and rapamycin (also called sirolimus), which is used to coat arterial stents. So that the cells lining the arteries opened by the stents do not divide and re-clog them.

Thankfully,  people are also starting to ask can going back to basics by preparing meals with fresh, whole ingredients really be the solution?

People are now buying more organic foods and products. They are more aware of the substantial research connecting low quality/processed diets with the nation’s growing obesity epidemic, rise of diabetes and heart disease. Processing of any type reduces the nutrient content, and may even take away those vital antioxidants that support immune health and protect cells from damage. Organic food has a much higher level of nutrients including essential vitamins, minerals, and secondary metabolites such as phytonutrients, flavonoids, and polyphenols. Organic fruits and vegetables have 12% more nutrients than conventional produce. I think most people thought in the past that buying fresh, raw ingredients cost more but the truth is it’s actually less expensive. I understand processed food are sometimes more convenient to buy, but at what cost to your health?

People are realizing plants and essential oils still have all the significant values that our ancestors used them for many years ago. Due to the numerous health benefits of essential oils, they are increasingly being explored by the scientific community for the treatment of a variety of diseases including cancer, HIV, asthma, bronchitis, heart attacks and strokes.

People are understanding that herbs and other natural remedies can be as effective as traditional treatments, often without the negative side effects.

People are purchasing more organic beauty/skin care products and for good reason. Organic natural cosmetics are often more effective since they’re derived from nutrient-rich sources. Chemicals, artificial colors, and fillers in skin care products and makeup can cause redness, irritation, and breakouts. Many people are even allergic to chemicals commonly present in conventionally produced products. Natural products get their fragrances from essential oils made from flowers, fruits and herbs. Organic ingredients which are absorbed through the skin can increase collagen production, repair free radical damage and improve oxygen and blood flow towards the skin. Externally, natural products tighten skin, diminish lines and wrinkles, repair discoloration, and protect the skin from environmental elements.

Our bodies evolved eating and using natural ingredients. To receive the best health benefits from food/plants as it possibly could. All-natural is what your body wants and needs!

What Is The Paleo Diet?

“The Paleo diet is the healthiest way you can eat because it is the ONLY nutritional approach that works with your genetics to help you stay lean, strong and energetic! Research in biology, biochemistry, Ophthalmology, Dermatology and many other disciplines indicate it is our modern diet, full of refined foods, trans fats and sugar, that is at the root of degenerative diseases such as obesity, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, depression and infertility” says writer Robb Wolf.

Building A Healthy Paleo Diet

LEAN PROTEINS

Lean proteins support strong muscles, healthy bones and optimal immune function. Protein also makes you feel satisfied between meals.

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that have been shown to decrease the likelihood of developing a number of degenerative diseases including cancer, diabetes and neurological decline.

Okay To Eat	Avoid
Fruits	Dairy
Vegetables	Grains
Lean Meats	Processed Food & Sugars
Seafood	Legumes
Nuts & Seeds	Starches
Healthy Fats	Alcohol

HEALTHY FATS FROM NUTS, SEEDS, AVOCADOS, OLIVE OIL, FISH OIL AND GRASS-FED MEAT

• Vegetables: Avocados, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, collards, fennel, celery, asparagus, kale, spinach, arugula, Swiss chard, zucchinis, artichokes, okra, summer squash, winter squash, pumpkins, sweet potatos, yams, kohlrabi, parsnips, rutabaga, carrots, green onions, onions, garlic, parsley, bok choy, and cilantro.

• Nightshade Vegetables: Peppers, eggplants, tomatoes, and potatoes are allowed if you don’t react to them. Some people develop heartburn, dry skin, or joint pain when these foods are eaten.

• Fruits: Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, pomegranates, strawberries, lemons, limes, grapefruits, apples, pears, nectarines, peaches, cherries, plums, figs, apricots, kiwi, mango, persimmon, grapes, papaya, pineapple and medjool dates.

• Meats: Grass-fed and/or pasture-raised meats including beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, pork, bison, and wild boar. Bacon is okay to consume occasionally, as long as it’s from pasture-raised pigs.

• Fish: Wild-caught Alaskan salmon, halibut, haddock, sardines, anchovies, trout, and black cod.

• Shellfish: Crab, lobster, scallops, and mussels.

• Nuts: Walnuts, raw almonds, macadamias, pecans, pistachios, hazelnuts, pine nuts, and coconuts.

• Seeds: hemp seeds, chia seeds, sunflower, pumpkin, flax seeds, and sesame.

• Fats: Grass-fed butter or ghee, MCT oil, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, sesame oil, avocado oil, avocados, grass-fed pasture-raised marrow bones, and pasture-raised eggs.

• Gluten-Free Grains: Quinoa, rice, millet, and buckwheat.

• Legumes: Beans, lentils, peas, and fermented soy (tempeh, miso, natto).

• Sweeteners: Stevia, xylitol, sorbitol, maltitol, raw honey, coconut sugar, and maple syrup.

• Seasonings: Sea salt, ginger, turmeric, cumin, allspice, garlic, black pepper, onion, cilantro, parsley, rosemary, thyme, mustard seed, tamari, nutmeg, paprika, lavender, vanilla, and tarragon.

Scientific research and epidemiological studies show that diets rich in Monounsaturated and Omega-3 fats dramatically reduce the instances of obesity, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and cognitive decline.

Saturated fat has been demonized by our health authorities and media. What is the basis for this position on Saturated fat? Are current recommendations for VERY low saturated fat intake justified? How much saturated fat (and what types), if any should one eat? Without a historical and scientific perspective these questions can be nearly impossible to answer. In this paper Prof. Cordain looks at the amounts and types of saturated fats found in the ancestral diet: Saturated fat consumption in ancestral human diets: implications for contemporary intakes.

One of the greatest deviations away from our ancestral diet is the amounts and types of fat found in modern grain feed animals vs. the amounts and types of fats found in grass fed or wild meat, fowl and fish. What we observe is wild meat is remarkably lean, and has relatively low amounts of saturated fats, while supplying significant amounts of beneficial omega-3 fats such as EPA and DHA. In this paper Prof. Cordain and his team analyze the complete fatty acid profile from several species of wild deer and elk. The take home message is that free range meat is far healthier than conventional meat: Fatty acid analysis of wild ruminant tissues: Evolutionary implications for reducing diet-related chronic disease.

Health Benefits of a Paleo Diet

For most people the fact the Paleo diet delivers the best results is all they need. Improved blood lipids, weight loss, and reduced pain from autoimmunity is proof enough.  Many people however are not satisfied with blindly following any recommendations, be they nutrition or exercise related. Some folks like to know WHY they are doing something. Fortunately, the Paleo diet has stood not only the test of time, but also the rigors of scientific scrutiny.

With a very simple shift we not only remove the foods that are at odds with our health (grains, legumes, and dairy) but we also increase our intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here is a great paper from Professor Loren Cordain exploring how to build a modern Paleo diet: The nutritional characteristics of a contemporary diet based upon Paleolithic food groups. This paper also offers significant insight as to the amounts and ratios of protein, carbohydrate and fat in the ancestral diet.

Come on! Our Ancestors lived short, brutal lives! This Paleo Diet is all bunk, right?

The Paleo concept is new for most people and this newness can spark many questions. We like people to not only read about and educate themselves on this topic but also to “get in and do it.” Experience is perhaps the best teacher and often cuts through any confusion surrounding this way of eating. Now, all that considered, there are still some common counter arguments to the Paleo diet that happen with sufficient frequency that a whole paper was written on it.

Does it work for diabetes?

A great question to ask is “Does the Paleo diet work?” Here we have a head to head comparison between the Paleo diet and Mediterranean diet in insulin resistant Type 2 Diabetics. The results? The Paleo diet group REVERSED the signs and symptoms of insulin resistant, Type 2 diabetes. The Mediterranean diet showed little if any improvements. It is worth noting that the Mediterranean diet is generally held up by our government as “the diet to emulate” despite better alternatives. You can find an abstract and the complete paper here.

Cardio Vascular Disease

According to the CDC, cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. Interestingly however, our Paleolithic ancestors and contemporarily studied hunter-gatherers showed virtually no heart attack or stroke while eating ancestral diets. The references below will explore these facts to better help you understand the heart-healthy benefits of a Paleo diet.

Autoimmunity

Autoimmunity is a process in which our bodies own immune system attacks “us.” Normally the immune system protects us from bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. The immune system identifies a foreign invader, attacks it, and ideally clears the infection. A good analogy for autoimmunity is the case of tissue rejection after organ donation. If someone requires a new heart, lung kidney or liver due to disease or injury, a donor organ may be an option. The first step in this process is trying to find a tissue “match”. All of us have molecules in our tissues that our immune system uses to recognize self from non-self. If a donated organ is not close enough to the recipient in tissue type the immune system will attack and destroy the organ. In autoimmunity, a similar process occurs in that an individuals own tissue is confused as something foreign and the immune system attacks this “mislabeled” tissue. Common forms of autoimmunity include Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and Vitiligo to name only a tiny fraction of autoimmune diseases. Elements of autoimmunity are likely at play in conditions as seemingly unrelated as Schizophrenia, infertility, and various forms of cancer.

 

Benefits and Recipes of Delicious Hemp Seeds

If you’re looking to improve digestion, balance hormones and improve metabolism, then hemp seeds may just be the superfood you’re looking for.

For a long time, hemp seeds we’re ignored for their nutritional benefits because it’s botanical relationship to drug/medicinal varieties of Cannabis.

However, hemp seeds do NOT cause any psychotropic reaction and instead may provide significant health benefits with its unique nutritional profile.

Here is what we know about the therapeutic benefits of hemp:

• Excellent 3:1 balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote cardiovascular health
• High in gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid found in borage oil and egg yolks that has been proven to naturally balance hormones
• “Perfect protein” not only containing all 20 amino acids, but also each of the 9 essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce
• Rich in soluble and un-soluble fiber which naturally cleanses the colon and reduces sugar cravings

GLA and GLA-rich foods like hemp seeds have also been observed to help people with:

• ADHD
• Breast pain
• Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Multiple sclerosis
• Obesity
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Skin allergies

7 Major Hemp Seed Benefits

1. Hormones (GLA)

Research in the 1980s observed that hormone-like substances called prostaglandins play a key role in helping the body function smoothly. It was discovered that prostaglandins help smooth muscles contract, control inflammation and body temperature, and are vital to other body functions.

Hemp seed-rich GLA is known to be a necessary building block for some prostaglandins, and researchers have surmised that GLA supplementation is necessary for proper hormone health, which is probably why many women suffering from PMS have been helped by it.

2. Arthritis and Joint Pain

A 6 month study published in the journal of Arthritis and Rheumatism found that consuming the stand alone GLA found in hemp seeds reduced arthritis symptoms by 25% compared to the placebo at only 4%. This along with the fact that hemp seeds have an ideal ratio of omega-3/6 fats along with it’s other minerals help naturally reduce inflammation.
For treatment take 1 tbsp of hemp seed oil daily along with a quality fish oil

3. Weight Loss

Hemp is known as a natural appetite suppressant and can help you feel full longer and reduce sugar cravings. Some experts recommend that adding 4 tablespoons of the seeds to your breakfast will help curb excess hunger the entire day.

4. Digestive Health

High in insoluble and soluble fiber, hemp seeds provide more than enough bulk to keep your gastrointestinal system regular. Additionally, this healthy mixture of roughage feeds the probiotics in your gut and helps secure a robust immune system.

5. Hair/Skin/Nails

Hemp seed benefits for skin and hair go a long way at improving dry, red, flaking skin. Mostly used in high-end cosmetic products, hemp oil is oftentimes included in lip balms, lotions and soaps. The oil in the hemp seeds is known to penetrate the inner layers of the skin and promote healthy cell growth; the recipe for smooth, soft skin.

Since hempseed oil is also good for skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema, it is a good idea to eat at least a couple tablespoons of hemp seed every day to maximize these benefits as well and then create a homemade skin cream combining hemp seed oil, shea butter and essential oils like lavender.

6. Cancer

Because of it’s perfect fatty-acid profile of omega-3 fats and GLA, this helps naturally balance inflammation levels and strengthen the immune system.

The British Journal of Cancer reports that the THC in hemp seeds can stop and possibly reverse glioblastoma multiforme (a deadly form of brain cancer). The journal of Breast Cancer Research and Treatment confirmed the THC in hemp seeds improved advanced stage breast cancer. Researchers from the University of Rostock, Germany discovered the same hemp seed benefits for lung cancer.

After evaluating the research consuming hemp seeds could be part of a healthy anti-cancer diet and natural treatment plan.

7. Heart Health

Some of the key ingredients in building a healthy heart include fiber, plant-based protein, healthy fats and eating less sugar. And hemp seeds help in doing all of those things.

I recommend adding 2 tbsp of hemp seeds to a morning smoothie to naturally lower blood pressure, reduce LDL cholesterol, raise HDL cholesterol and improve triglycerides.

Recipes

SUPER SEED TRIFECTA GRANOLA

Yield: serves 12-14

Ingredients:

• 3 cups crisp brown rice cereal
• 3 cups gluten-free rolled oats
• ½ cup hemp hearts
• ½ cup flax seeds
• ¼ cup chia seeds
• ½ cup brown rice syrup
• 2 tablespoons flax oil (or other oil)
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• ½ tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 275. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients. In a small bowl, combine the wet ingredients.

Heat the wet ingredients in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can heat the wet ingredients in a saucepan, until it just begins to bubble around the edges.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry and thoroughly combine. Divide the mixture between the two baking sheets and spread out evenly.

Bake the granola for 45 minutes, switching shelves for each sheet (i.e. placing the sheet from the top shelf on the lower shelf and vice versa).

Once done, let cool completely before transferring to an air-tight container. Enjoy!

HEMP SEED PESTO

Yield: About 3/4 cup

Using hemp seeds instead of pine nuts adds 3 additional grams of protein per 1/4 cup of this basil pesto.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
• 1/4 cup hemp hearts
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic
• Kosher salt to taste (about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon is a good amount)

Instructions:

Combine all of the ingredients in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula if necessary.