Ho-ho-ho! The gift of health from a brand we trust is a precious one to give in this era where we value integrity, wholeness and commitment to our shared future more than ever. I’ve been enjoying picking out stocking stuffers like the newly released (scour off), the bb creams, and the Basic H set to give to teachers, family and friends. These deals are being released 1 per day over on my FB page (Dec 12-24) but of course if you’re like me and want to plan well, this spot holds them all, and you’re welcome to contact me directly (madeleine.pide@gmail.com) for the one (or several) you want to snap up. I’ll honor them through Dec 31st for anyone who’s traveling or can’t commit to receiving their package until closer to the new year. Cheers to a cozy, calm, and wonderful holiday season with the ones you love.
*All of these packages come with a free 20 minute health consult with yours truly…we can do them now or in the new year!–these consults can be gifted to family members with purchases of the kit as well* ($50 value!)
I had this salad at a friend’s house and loved how flavorful, hearty and filling it was. It’s easy to make the variations once you massage the kale with the oil and lemon, and you can optionally add various seasonings to the dressing based on the toppings you choose.
1 large bag of chopped/prepped organic kale, or 2 bunches kale washed/chopped
1 serving quinoa (usually 2 cups water to 1 cup quinoa makes a serving)
2 bags dried cranberries/cherries (I like a blend)
optional: pecans (we’re a no nut school so these didn’t go in for the teacher luncheon)
Dressing:
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup olive oil, organic
1/4 cup balsamic (optional, and can also drizzle on at the end)
salt/pepper to taste
optional 1 tsp honey to encourage the sweetness of the berries to counteract the bitter kale.
Massage oil and lemon juice into kale; let stand 10 minutes while prepping other ingredients/dressing.
Other mix-in options:
Roast grape tomatoes and sunflower seeds (separate pans) in 300 degree oven for 10 min or until bubbling/brown, then let cool before tossing in the salad.
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This recipe is great for storing overnight, the lemon juice slightly breaks down the kale and balances the bitter flavor, so great to keep around for house guests, dinner parties (make ahead) and just about any moment in the coming weeks when you need a break from the sugar and carbs, and a little detox moment. Kale is a trend health food that’s here to stay—tons of vitamin A, E, K and fiber, and the iron is easier for our bodies to absorb than that found in other veggie sources. Thanks for letting me share in a health coach nerd out, but mix up this salad and share away with family and friends–can’t wait to hear what you think and whatyour variations are!
This season of the year can feel like the mad dash to cram in all the things we needed to finish for 2017, fill the days with new (wonderful) events and activities, parties, people, and sometimes, the very thought of our to-do lists and calendars can make us sweat a little…
I’ve been reflecting on what it means to simplify the holidays…and it’s something many of our hearts long for–as I talk to dear friends around the country…it will look different for each of us, but I’ve felt called since last week to write a post to attempt to put my reflections on this topic into a short post that will create space in your heart and your mind rather than cramming it full. We can support each other in taking steps to create a simpler, more joyful December.
Here’s a rich quote that I discovered today (thanks St. Ambrose)…and it really sums up more beautifully than I could, what we’re grappling with.
“Let your door stand open to receive Him, unlock your soul to Him, offer Him a welcome in your mind, and then you will see the riches of simplicity, the treasures of peace, the joy of grace. Throw wide the gate of your heart, stand before the sun of the everlasting light…” -St Ambrose
(I think that whatever faith tradition you’re coming from; this time of year connected to the soltice etc is about turning inward, reflection, considering the state of one’s heart going into the new year, and is apropos to the feasts that each faith celebrates).
The riches of simplicity. That’s what I’m after. And it’s a struggle, because the great current and culture (just step into any mall on a weekend) is rushing past us saying “more, more”.
Perfection not the goal;)
Just a few of my seasonal favs
Winter walks for mood
couldn’t resist…Ambrose this time last year
All is calm and bright, during nap and movie time at least 🙂
Oversized wreath + coffee shop love
So, how does this creating of space look? I’ll consider several angles and share some things we’ve found helpful as a family over the years…(And believe me, I’m completely in process on this, and need your ideas and sharing to support mine). There’s a book I’m just starting called “The best Yes” and the premise of it is that saying “no” in small areas allows us to say “yes” to the things that really matter, and that is what allows us to step off the crazy race of feeling pulled in a million directions and wondering which aspects of it all will have the most meaning. Think back to past holidays–what moments stand out? The crazy last minute trips to the mall or the grocery store for the 3rd time that day (hey, guilty)…or the moments when everyone is together, feasting, celebrating, or even quiet preparation moments—candles, music, baking with kids (or without)…I’m choosing to create space to let the good stuff come first…and that’s going to mean some things just won’t happen this year, and I’m making my peace with that too.
*Simplifying priorities and calendar*
…this helps me so much. If I know something like a tree-cutting as a family, Nutcracker, or ice-skating is a priority for us, I’ve learned to schedule it in at once (block scheduling) so that if other things come up or we’re invited here or there, I can already know that our priorities are there, scheduled, ready for us to enjoy the moments.
Some people love doing Christmas cards, others don’t. Some people love doing parties 4 nights a week. Others of us can handle 1 or 2 and that’s about our max at the moment…so embrace your priorities and let go of any guilt…I know doses of it in past years when confronting choices and it ends up adding to my stress, which none of us need.
*Simplifying expectations*
Isn’t this the kicker? We all want to do so many things with each day. We have long idealized to-do lists. But sometimes letting go of those expectations and welcoming what is offered to us in the moment, in the twists and turns of the day, is where we’ll discover the true magic of the season. Perhaps instead of making cookies for everyone you love, you invite some folks over for a cookie party–one place, everyone laughs, enjoys, decorates together, and takes home a plate (we did this one year with little ones and it was a big hit…and saved so much time/extra stuff for me). Maybe you let yourself off the hook for doing the elaborate holiday get-together you did in past years, and embrace a potluck brunch model with friends…last year, when I had a newborn, I had to simplify expectations I had (for myself) big-time!, and while it was humbling, it was also incredible to discover the core of some of our most important traditions, which appeared when alot was stripped away.
*Simplifying gifts*w3
Am I the only one? I struggle with the tension of wanting the perfect thing for each person on my list, and being also torn with the time and effort (and even budget) sometimes to get all those things taken care of in just a few weeks. And really, for people close to us and people far, don’t they value things that are ,unusual, home-made, from the heart? I don’t claim to be a pinterest mom by any stretch of the imagination, but of course I like the idea of making things for people…so simple things and considering how often I can give experiences or time, helps with making the list very meaningful and something that lasts more than a day. Our kids this year are of course going to have a few things under the tree, but we’re also really emphasizing experiences, learning opportunities, fun, things we can commit to doing with them. And for many of us, something like a certificate to “brunch” or “a movie together” or “watching your kids while you go out with your husband” might end up meaning SO much more…the gift of time, as we all know, blesses others more richly than we can imagine. Or what about giving a book you cherish AND giving the coffee date to discuss said book…it truly changes the gift when framed in that way.
I do like to keep some easy (remember, not pinteresty) gifts around for the kids to make for family and friends…here are some of our favorites.
This is the biggest topic that moms and dads (and everyone) have to discern and discuss, since it’s such a joy to watch children open anticipated (or surprise) gifts on Christmas. But for many of us, the goal of keeping the rest of the year (and homes) simple can feel at odds on this count….so please, share your thoughts!
*Space for self-care* (and teaching this to our kids).
This one is super relevant for moms, dads, teachers, and anyone who’s caring for others in all the ways we love to, but especially this season. It’s relevant for all of us. The demands can get very intense, and, as you might imagine, my gentle nudge to you is to embrace a higher level of self-care//wellness//whatever that means to you….when you’re more complete, more whole, you’re giving a better version of yourself to everyone you encounter. This might mean yoga every day for a few minutes, a bath after the end of a long day, it might mean midday walks (these are my saving grace, for my energy and winter mood, plus can be done with kiddos), it might mean carving out the time for reflection, prayer and using an advent journal such as the one I’m loving called Rooted in Hope. It might mean (guilty), setting an alarm to remind yourself to go to bed so you can be a functioning human being the next day; it might mean drinking shakes and taking your vits in the morning before you start sipping cocktails at night…whatever it is, factor it in, and embrace it as part of what you’re called to do in the name of service, self-gift, and bringing holiday cheer.
For my kids, it’s reminding them to take moments for themselves as needed, to still get outside for fresh air even when it’s bitter, and to be aware when they’re feeling the need for quiet time, reading, time apart. Emma is doing a journal with me, I love that she understands (and is reinforced at school)–the deeper reason for the season beyond santa wish lists.
Festive morning yoga and stretching: making it happen as best we can.
*Space for service*
Connected to giving time and experiences, I find it a beautiful thing to do a service project (or 2) this time of year. The girls have several gift drives in their school and our Church, which I love and they are beautiful ways to connect to the larger community’s experience of the season. But what about giving these precious hours during the craziest time of the year? I remember last year I had to work hard to find a group that would let us volunteer as a family (many places have rules about small children etc) but when we were able to help out at a Christmas pageant/dinner with the Missionaries of charity, it was the most beautiful evening shared, and we left feeling so much more filled and touched than we could have imagined. I would sacrifice a shopping day for that kind of family experience anytime. Do you like to do service this time of year? Share your experiences, I’ll be thrilled to get new ideas from you all.
*Creating space in the home*
Right before the holidays, there’s often a big desire/push to declutter and evaluate excess/extra that can be given away to others. We may have guests coming, we have a myriad of new holiday decor out, and without a bit of clearing space, it can feel downright crowded/cluttered.
I have in the past years, had the girls go through their toys and pick ones they would donate to others, and we’ve cleared out sometimes up to 1/3rd of their belongings at this time, which truly they weren’t using/attached to! These make great gifts to others in need, or end of year tax write-offs if nothing else.
Now, that I have a new method for managing toys and do more of an ongoing (KonMari/Spark Joy) method for their items, it’s become less critical, but I did go through and remove 1.5 bins of toys from their stash, and if, after the holidays, we don’t seem to need/notice them for a few months, they may get donated too.
This is such a beautiful analogy to how we’re called to create space in our hearts…and the physical act of decluttering, and also giving beauty and precedence/honor to the things we choose to keep and display, is a spiritual experience for many of us as well. More on that in the new year from me (hop on my list to see the program offerings that are coming….so important, right? We all feel this need to consciously and gratefully craft homes that are not overwhelming or overflowing…it’s a joyful balancing act, and truly one of privilege. When we feel spaciousness, there is room for new. And don’t we all want to be made new by the eve of December 31st….ready for what 2018 will offer us, if we have the calm, peace, and spaciousness to receive it.
Thank you for reading these ramblings, I hope you’ll share your thoughts on the matter…and next up…some healthy holiday treats coming your way!a
I was reflecting the other day on what I think a huge piece of our daily mindset and happiness comes from, and how we can approach anything, from goal setting for the new year coming up, to raising our kids, to looking forward to something positive in the new year like an exotic trip. Some conversations with close friends highlighted that when we’re making changes, we wonder how to make sure it will stick; do we have the right framework for it, to make the habits, goals, and all other elements come together? What tools will ensure that this change we’re working on is lasting and meaningful?
Well, I think it has to do with this paradigm shift that literally blew my mind and caused me to re-evaluate so many principles and things I was working with, from relationships, to teammate interactions, goal setting sessions, even my daily to-do list and how I approached it with a fierceness, convinced that if I conquered it I would rest that night with that blissful feeling of doing it all, but in reality–any mom can tell you–the day had a million interruptions and sometimes those all important items became an afterthought to the living. Do we measure success by our to-do list being short, or by something else?
So….how can we approach life differently? How can we create/cultivate happiness, in each moment, complete for what it is, as if we already have what we seek? You and I all know people who manage to live this way…and they are often very attractive, so they have natural leadership qualities. But what is this new approach?
Here’s a quote that sums it up better than I ever could:
Most people believe that if they ‘have’ a thing (more time, money, love – whatever) then they can finally ‘do’ a thing (write a book, take up a hobby, go on vacation, buy a home, undertake a relationship), which will enable them to ‘be’ a thing (happy, peaceful, content, or in love). In actuality, they are reversing the Be-Do-Have paradigm. In the Universe as it really is (as opposed to how you think it is), ‘havingness’ does not produce ‘beingness’ but the other way around. First you ‘be’ the thing called ‘happy’ (or ‘knowing’, or ‘wise’, or ‘compassionate’, or whatever) then you start ‘doing’ things from this place of beingness – and soon you discover that what you are doing winds up bringing you the things you’ve always wanted to ‘have.’ Conversations with God, Book 3, Neale Donald Walsh
So…imagine if you woke up and said…today, I choose to be _________ (peaceful, joyful, focused (on a deadline), vibrant, lighthearted, etc) and then set out to do your day, from that conviction that you already can be and are that thing. It’s a grounding in ourselves and not relying on things outside of us to determine our mood or attitude about the day. Incredibly powerful shift, though so subtle that you might feel that your day itself doesn’t look that much different. But try it out and it will FEEL incredible different.
I was loving this concept and using it alot in my business, which is all about setting goals and helping your teammates to set big goals…because sometimes for myself or others, this funny thing would happen….month after month, with growth, new business, success, milestones, even accolades, we can sometimes feeling empty inside, or “is this enough”. Or, well, time to focus on the next big goal–to try to that proud feeling of accomplishment that is so sweet and is hardwired in us to enjoy.
It’s like you’ve been waiting all year for your birthday, and then the sheer anticipation overwhelms the actual event and makes it hard to have perspective on what you’re actually enjoying about the big day.
Can anyone else relate? Especially my goal lovers out there who love a good goal to keep ourselves in motion. Well, it turns out…there’s something else here. We have to, get to, learn to love the journey, not just the destination. That’s where the being and the doing come in. If I just tell myself, I will be happy when I get that next raise at work, or next month at the holidays, or I’ll be happy when my kids finally start listening better, or I’ll be happy when I have a new wardrobe, or sofa,…you see what I mean? It’s always outside of us, of our control, and it’s always beckoning us to be dis-satisfied with what we currently have. It screams louder when we go on social media and compare, compare, feel upset, guilty, pitty party, everyone else’s life is (looks) perfect and mine is…well, real life.
Give yourself permission to let that go. Connect with what you’re feeling called to BE in the world (we’ll do more of this work in my design your life series in the new year, so hop on over to the page and submit your info if you’re intrigued). And let’s shine and use our gifts in a way that is free and unlinked to anything that we feel we should HAVE or DO, that hasn’t happened yet.
For me, this has taught me to focus a bit more on what my spirit is calling forth in me. If there’s a need for greater outspokenness, or greater peace or patience (in my household that’s always a good one!), or if I’m meant to start with gratitude for what I already have rather than thinking of the few things I don’t have. It’s a powerful lesson to work on with kids as well, because why, at a young age, do we get hardwired this way? I’m definitely trying to re-wire or un-wire the circuits so my kids are free to focus on BEING, rather than be products of cultures of DOING or HAVING. Watch a 4 year old play and you’ll see and remember it all used to be much simpler….and there’s a beauty in that. You can think more about this topic by reading The Four Agreements, another one of my top reads.
In leadership, it means focusing in on the qualities or aspects of your partners or teammates and speaking to THOSE first. Rather than “here’s a deadline, I’ll be judging you by your efforts and productivity to meet it”. Or, exploring the perspective of where a person wants to be, and asking the question–but WHY? And getting down to the deepest layer of what drives them forward; within that motivation, we find the desire and the being, that is much more fundamental to us than our need to DO or HAVE.
My daily planner which I’ve been using for 2 years (just ordered my 3rd for 2018! Happy dance) is one called “The Desire Map Planner” by Danielle LaPorte. It spoke to me on a deep level when I was at a crossroads (read, overwhelmed by life!) and was ready to implement these principles for goal setting and action from a place of being and becoming, and feeling, rather than traditional yardsticks. It may not be for everyone, but it’s changed my life, and I HIGHLY recommend it if you’re in the market for a planner…that’s another post for another day, but give yourself permission to explore these topics, and enjoy the way your life shifts!
Great short article with some practical types on working your new muscle.
Love being stretched…by motherhood, business and life
Last year, exactly 1 year ago, I was 2.5 weeks postpartum with my 3rd, and we were heading into the holiday season. I remember moments of total exhaustion and overwhelm amidst the joy and the happy busy preparations. We then went on into the new year to decide we wanted to move the family, and by the time my babe was 4 months we were showing our place to sell it, and looking for a new place, and moved when he was 7 months old.
Needless to say, I had to get very serious about my self-care during this period of time of blessings, but also intensity, transition, and busyness. I have a few things that stood the test for me, and I wanted to share them for all my momma friends who are in the trenches, and in that beautiful period of post-partum, when caring for self is equivalent for caring for baby. This is true especially if breastfeeding, but no matter what, mother is everything, the baby’s whole world. That reality motivated me to continually ground myself, for my baby and my kids’ sake, as well as my own.
And if you’re feeling very very sad all the time, or completely overwhelmed or angry or a combination of intense emotions, don’t just brush it off as a need for self-care…talk to someone who can help you determine whether you have PPD or Anxiety and address it. There’s a good related article, self quiz & support team here at Seleni Institute, or speak with your health provider.
Never underestimate the benefits of a good soak in epsom salts and lavendar after a long day. Not only does the magnesium calm the nervous system and prepare you for a restful night sleep, but the baths are good for aching muscles, and you’ll forget most of the cares of the day after you’ve soaked for 20 minutes, especially with tea, candles and a good book nearby. I like to get the lavender epsom salt blends, and you can add a few drops of your favorite calming essential oils too, as the bath runs.
Get outside. Not only does it help with mood, but time in the sunshine will give you perspective on your time with baby at home, the fresh air will do you good (even in winter its great to bundle baby and go for a walk)…and of course, catching Vit D when you can helps support your vital replenishment of it, as well as babes…since they can’t get it through breastmilk. Plus, it’s always wonderful coming back home after a short outing. Walks, jogs, time at the park, whatever suits you. Just make it regular and easy to plan:)
Sleep extra. This is such cliche advice they always give us “sleep when baby sleeps”…I always chuckle—yah right, i’m gonna grab my favorite mug, some tea, catch up on emails, news, dishes, life…but NO. Much better if you give yourself permission to take naps 2-3 times a week with babe, especially early on. It’s special bonding time if you are able to sleep with them. Or if by yourself, just appreciate it for what it is; your body heals so much more quickly when it’s rested…I’ve learned this the hard way when dangerously cutting sleep after my 1st and my 3rd…and believe me, it’s not a good thing for anyone involved.
Nourish yourself with all the goodness you can. I am a big believer that this is one of the most important times to focus on nutrition, equally so to pre-natal, but often not discussed. I recommend this book The first 40 Days that goes into great detail on which foods are most healing to postpartum mommas, and has amazing recipes…that you should have someone ELSE make for you. Keep quick and easy snacks on hand, and reach for healthy fats, protein (your needs are just as high as pregnancy), filling hearty grains, and greens as often as you can, even when caffeine and sugar seem like the obvious ways to get through the sleep deprived mornings and days. Caffeine and sugar can contribute to our mood swings and cortisol disruption, so be wise about avoiding that cycle…finding other ways to get quick energy fixes is definitely a good plan. See my post on postpartum health tools.
Remember to get out the house at least once a week (after the initial 6 weeks or your healing/cleared) and do a hobby, pursue something you love. This could be anything from pottery (I took a class when my first was a baby and let her and her dad bond and figure themselves out one evening a week)…to yoga (this was my hobby of choice after #2)…or even something as simple as just getting out and going to the movies by yourself (this was a dream come true for me after #3). Just knowing that you have that time for your own needs and to be a human as well as a pillow and milk machine, will help your spirits heal along with your body. It’s alot of big changes, and we need to ground ourselves in things that have brought us joy and will continue to, such as books, hobbies, and relationships.
Last but certainly not least: Know when to ask for help. When you’re near the end of your energy or what you can give, and you just need a warm meal, a nap and a moment to yourself while someone cares for baby, or for your toddler or other kiddos, find out who your support team will be, call on them in advance and make sure they’re at the ready to help. It certainly takes wisdom and humility, and it’s so worth it to get the team lined up before you have birth, but don’t feel the need to stretch your supermom cape too thin; there’s plenty of time for that once baby is a little older, for now, your lives and well being are vitally intertwined and in need of a large community of support.
I’m cheering for you! Reach out if you want to connect, I adore supporting moms in this beautiful phase of life, or jump into our Postpartum FB group that we just launched in Jan 2018 to share your success, struggles, daily wins and all the rest of it in a private group setting. This has been a dream of mine for some time and it’s so humbling and awesome to see so many amazing women coming together to deeply support each other in navigating the joys and challenges of this unforgettable time in our lives.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/569409133392034/
(You’ll be in, pending answering a few questions to help us support you!)
4 essential tips for Balance as a work at home Momma:
As a work at home momma for the past 7 years (wow!) in all combinations of part time work at home, full time employee working 2 days from home, consultant working inside and out of the house, and now business owner working part time hours and happy full time momma, here are some things I’ve learned along the way…I hope these help!
Drop the guilt. Period. Why bother? It’s a waste of energy. Some days your house will be a hugely blessed mess, and other days you will have it spotless but the kids will be melting down and you’ll be hours behind on a deliverable, and you’ll just have to laugh, pour yourself another cup of coffee, and do the best you can (and let everyone around you understand you’re doing just that). I know it’s hard, I’m working on it too, but life is too short to get caught up in the guilt traps, and by nature what you’re doing is a very intricate juggle, not
Set up a culture of support: by this I mean: explain to your spouse, family and support network, what you’re up to, and how they can help. Discuss what them what an ideal day looks like for you, and what success looks like. As the boss, you get to define that…so go ahead and get your whole team on board with it! Sometimes this support will be with the literal juggle (can you pick up so-and-so while I have this meeting?)…and other times it will mean: I’m working towards this big goal in my business (last year it was a dream vacation in Mexico for the family that we aimed for as a measure of growth)…and when your family has moments of “what is this all about?/this is hard” we remind each other–this is our bigger why, what we’re working for, and we’re on the same team, each doing our part! When you finish a big project or hit a deadline, celebrate with a nice dinner; so the family knows how important it all is–for them as well as for you.
Take care of yourself! This cannot be under-emphasized. You’re setting out to do superhuman things each day–mothering and raising little ones, while also changing lives through your work in the larger sphere. Give yourself the structured self-care that allows you to be your best self; adjust things and realize each day will look a little different, and find the tools to energize and renew often. (Email me for our current 30 days Renew Me challenge–targeting busy and influential mommas–finding a tribe of like-minded folks has made all the difference for me in this area)!
This is excerpted from this original article, published this week.
This is a question I get all the time. Whenever I’m chatting healthy kids, this comes up as one of our daily supplements for the kiddos, so it’s always helpful for me to be able to clarify based on questions about which strains are best, why some are refrigerated and others aren’t etc.
I’ll dive in with a bit of context if you’re new to this conversation, and then share some compelling facts and ideas about which ones are most beneficial for little tummies and little immune systems.
(As well as big tummies and immune systems of course, I take the same ones in fact)
In recent years, there’s been a large amount of studies done that link gut health with not only immune health, but also overall well-being, brain health and mood. Which makes sense if we understand the gut is like a 2nd brain. “Trust your gut” they told us. Well, we have to work extra hard in this day to feed our guts what they need to be able to work properly and have us “trust them”:) This is because the standard american diet is a gut flora killer–tons of sugar, tons of processed foods, and gluten, are some of the main triggers of depleting a gut of good bacteria. Then, we add the common cycle (yes, we were there too, you can read more of our story here) of antibiotics prescribed for little ones’ ear infections and more, and then we get to a new level of gut depletion and the need for replenishment, on top of months of sugar and indulgence from Oct 31 through January 1. No wonder so many parents dread the winter months, and all the bugs that they expect to cycle through.
Here are some of the sources touting the benefits of probiotics:
Thankfully, some of my health coach mom friends shared some invaluable knowledge with me, and early on, after a year and a half of regular sickness and poor immune health, my daughter was able to build up her immunity with precisely this program. She has only really been consistent with 3 supplements, and her diet changed slightly with less sugar and processed foods, but essentially nothing else changed. So I’m very grateful, and you can connect more with me about all of that via email or by 15 min health consults, which I love to do for moms, focused on their families overall health.
Back to probiotics. Here’s a great infographic about food sources, which, while super helpful, are not the complete answer. Why? Because our stomach acid kills of most of the good live bacteria before they can reach the small intestine.
I’ll do a FAQ in hopes that handles most of it. Tons more resources to offer, so if you’re intrigued by this, definitely check out the link at the bottom, or email me and we can connect about it all. Fascinating stuff, and I’m immensely grateful for the complete healthy gut transformation we’ve all experienced over here from about probiotics and finding the brand that’s most effective for delivery of those lovely flora.
Q: I’ve seen that there are so many strains of probiotics, and some supplements advertise that they have more than 10 different types of prob strains. What’s the of that?
A: Well, it’s actually more of a marketing gimmick than anything, as most probiotic strains haven’t been widely studied. There are 2 main ones that all the research has been done with, and so it’s safe to stay if you stick with those strains, and simply increase the dosage if need be, you should be getting what you need.
The strains are: bifidobacterium longum and Lactobaccillus acidophilus. These are the ones found in the recommended brand below.
Q: Why do I see some probiotics stored in the fridge with “live cultures” signs on them, and others aren’t?
A. Similarly to yogurt and other foods with probiotic qualities, the probiotics that are in the fridge are active and are meant to be kept alive. However, the sad news is that similarly to food, without a protective coating, they will be killed of by the stomach acid and less than 10% will reach their final destination to be maximally effective.
Q. What makes the biggest difference in a high quality probiotic?
A. The encapsulation and delivery system for the bacteria is the measure of whether they are effective or a waste of money.
Mine so often come home from school ravenous… and the ideal of making them fresh baked cookies with no refined sugar, or a home made meal at 4pm, is thrown out the window in the need to compete with the quick and easy to access snacks that are crunchy and taste good but don’t leave them hungry an hour later, or don’t refill their bodies with healthy fats for brain power and mood. These are just a few of our favorites, the other one not pictured is cucumbers/broccoli/red peppers and other such veggies, with ranch dressing. I find it to be a great way to sneak some veggies in them with a satisfying crunch, before the dinner hour even starts.
From top to bottom, here they are:
Rice cake with almond butter and cinnamon sprinkled on (if I’m feeling like fun mom I will do some sprinkles too) with a side of berries–super antioxidants and easy for little fingers
Guac & chips with an emphasis on beans and corn dishes as well. This is a total favorite for Emma and I love that she’s getting something with protein, fats, it’s filling but not too heavy to spoil a dinner. Homemade guac is awesome, but let’s be real, store some in the fridge from brands you trust for the days you’re just not going to have the extra time to make the guac from scratch 🙂
Pomegranate. While this is not a complete snack in itself (I might serve it with crackers and hummus, etc) it’s fascinating that my kids go crazy for it; something about the satisfying crunch of the little seeds, and it’s so rich in antioxidants and keeps them busy breaking and gathering the little seeds that I love it. Let me know what your littles think, and be careful of the stains.
Super easy energizing protein bites. Can’t go wrong with these sweet/salty protein filled balls for little fingers and tummies. Even my 1 year old loves them. Yum.
Apples and peanut butter/almond butter. I remember this was MY afternoon snack of choice in middle school and to this day I love the balancing sweet and salty, the crunch of apples and the filling nut butter that doesn’t serve as a full meal.
Cheers to cozy afternoons with your little ones, let me know what you think of this roundup and share your favorite snacks too, so we can be sure we try new things and don’t get stuck in a rut!:)
These bars are scrumptious. I had a feeling they would be because my amazing friend Monica posted the original recipe on her foodblog, and I trust her, completely, with my taste buds. But, I had to use what I had on hand, and dried blueberries weren’t forthcoming in my very quick supermarket run (with 3 kids, I don’t do that too often, believe me:))
So, here’s my adaptation, with my favorite protein source added in, and I’ll link to the original recipe at the bottom so you can compare and contrast:) Can’t EVER have too many bars around for snacking kiddos, although since my kids go to a nut free school, these are not lunch box acceptable…so we save for before and after school (they are great for breakfasts if you warm them slightly).
1/4 cup almond butter (I used the delicious maple almond from Justin)
1/4 cup brown sugar
Large dollop (1 tbsp) coconut oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup milk
1 egg, whisked.
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease pan (I used good ol butter), and a pie pan just because I wanted them to come out that way; square pan 9-9 works well too.
Blend the dry ingredients together in a stand mixer.
Mix in the wet ingredients, starting with the almond butter, milk last.
Stir well (I might have overstirred but it gave them a nice light effect when cooked).
Bake for 25 minutes, or until bubbly on edges and slightly brown.
Enjoy!!! Especially with tea and some loved ones or friends. Good things aren’t meant to be kept to ourselves:)
This has to be the easiest snack to make, it requires no baking, only a few ingredients, and serves us so well for snacking all day long. Sometimes, if need be, Corinne has a few of these as she runs out the door for school and I feel great about the fact that they are packed with a high quality protein, and sweetened with honey, not sugar.
During the holidays you can dress them up with sprinkles, and bring them to your parties, everyone will love you, and you’ll be giving them the good stuff 🙂
No Bake Energizing Protein bites
*1 Cup organic oats
*1/2 cup honey (organic, raw, local is best)
*1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter (or other nut butter of choice, sunflower seed could work too in a pinch)
*2 scoops Shaklee life shake powder. I make it with all the flavors but my favorite is cafe latte because it’s such a subtle but lovely addition flavor. Vanilla and chocolate work great too.
Optional:
Coconut flakes
Chia seeds
Choco chips (minis are better)
White choc chips
Flax seeds, etc
Directions
Blend all ingredients together in a large bowl. Mold into balls and put into the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour. Then serve! They are best when left in the fridge to stay more solid, they can do fine at room temperature for up to 8 hours.
Enjoy! And comment below what your family and friends think of them when you make them!
(Want to stock up on life shake for your pantry? We certainly use it in all our baking, as you’ll see from the blog. Ask me about preferred membership discounts!)
