A Natural Complete Digestive Enzyme [Review]

Ever since I became pregnant and gave birth, there is something about meat that give me digestive issues. Furthermore, my diet is not as balanced as it should be because I am running around a toddler all day long and am lucky if I have a full meal. Starting probiotics has helped my digestion some. Adding a digestive enzyme supplement improved my digestive system even more. Enzymatrix Complete Digestive Enzyme is a complete and effective digestive enzyme formula, which includes a diverse range of 18 different enzymes to ensure proper digestion.

100 Naturals Enzymatrix Complete Digestive Enzyme      

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
Effective
Natural ingredients
No artificial additives or preservatives
Made in the USA

100 Naturals Upbiotics Advanced Probiotic Formula contains 18 different enzymes to ensure proper digestion with each meal regardless of food groups. Each enzyme helps with a specific type or types of foods. I like that this a complete solution for digestive enzymes and is a supplement that can be taken regardless of what is eaten. The capsules are the standard size and are easy to take. The enzyme supplement is flavorless.

Enzymatrix Complete Digestive Enzymes:
Protease 1
Protease 2
Aspergillopepsin
Amylase
Lipase
Cellulase
Glucoamylase
Invertase
Alpha Galactosidase
Beta Glucanase
Pectinase
Zylanase
Phytase
Hemicellulase
Lactase
Bromelian
Papain
Peptidase

The enzymes work for different types of food groups, including digesting beans, legumes, fruits, vegetables, carbs, fiber, grains, proteins, plant walls, sucrose, milk sugar in dairy products, fats, carbs from grains, phytic acid in nuts and grains, etc.

Other ingredients include: maltodextrin, vegetable capsule (hypromellose and water), and medium chain triglycerides.

This list of ingredients is one of the simplest for supplements. Even in natural supplements, sometimes it is hard to avoid fillers that are required to make the product work or make the supplement easier to digest and get absorbed into the body. I like the simple ingredient list.

Uses: The bottle states that the 1 capsule should be taken 1-2 times at the beginning of each meal as a dietary supplement. Do not exceed 6 capsules per day. Since this was the first time I have taken an enzyme supplement, I did some experimenting with the timing since I had read that some people take the supplement up to 30 minutes before the meal and some take the supplement at the beginning of the meal. For me, it worked to take the supplement about 15-30 minutes before the meal for best results.

Results: My issues with digesting meat must be related to the fats because when I eat fattier meat, I have more issues. For example, lamb is usually very heavy for my stomach and I get indigestion after eating it. Since I have began taking the enzyme supplement about 15-30 minutes before eating a meal with meat, I feel like my digestion issues have improved some. I have reached for the baking soda (my natural indigestion remedy) less. Otherwise, I have not had any GI issues like gas, bloating, constipation or diarrhea. I do feel like taking the enzyme supplement when I know I am going to eat a meal with meat has helped my digestion.

If you are looking for a high quality, natural enzyme supplement, 100 Natural Enzymatrix Complete Digestive Enzyme System is a great supplement to have on hand. This supplement would also be great for people who have intolerances and sensitives to food groups such as gluten and dairy because it might allow them to consume those food groups without the negative side effects.

Disclosure: I am not a medical professional. Information about the product was sourced from the company website. These statements have not be reviewed by the FDA, not intended to treat, cure or diagnose any conditions or diseases. Please consult your physician before starting a new supplement. I received the product to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own and are honest.

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Immunity Boosting Bomb [Recipe]

I have been dabbling in essential oils for several years. This year, I have gotten more serious about building my essential oil collection. Along with essential oils, I am also researching and buying natural immunity boosters like elderberry, raw local honey, herbal teas, etc. Having an arsenal of a variety of immunity boosting products helps to keep our immune systems strong and healthy, so that when we are exposed to germs, bacteria, and viruses, we minimize the impact on our family. My favorite recipe for naturally boosting immunity is the Immunity Boosting Bomb. Containing plant extracts, essential oils, and raw local honey, this drink is easy to take and tastes great.

Immunity Boosting Bomb

Yield: 1-2 ounces

Vegan (leave out honey or sub)
Vegetarian
Dairy Free
Nut Free

Ingredients
1 tbsp elderberry syrup or elderberry extract
1 tsp honey (can sub maple syrup or agave syrup)
30-40 drops echinacea extract
3 drops Immunity Strength essential oil
3 drops lemon essential oil
1 ounce of water (warm or cold, depending on your preference)

Optional Additions
5-10 drops ginger extract
5-10 drops licorice extract

Directions

1. Mix ingredients in a cup.
2. Drink 2-3 times a day when exposed to illnesses or when sick.

Norm's Farms offers high quality elderberry products . Their Elderberry Syrup and Elderberry Extract are great additions to my natural medicine cabinet. The Elderberry Syrup is sweetened with a bit of honey and flavored with cinnamon. It is not overpowering, but just enough sweetness that my 1.5 year old son loved to take this syrup when he was sick. The Elderberry Extract is just elderberries and water. The flavor is not bitter, but is not sweet. I have been taking the Elderberry Syrup straight and my son has also take some of it, though he prefers the Elderberry Syrup.

The bottles are sealed for protection. Once opened, the bottles should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 30 days. I was a little bit worried about the 30 day use by recommendation at first. Since we are in flu season right now and I am exposed to germs on a daily basis when we go to play dates and story times with other kids, I have been taking the Elderberry Extract every day. I can see going through one bottle of this in 30 days. My bottle has been in the fridge for more than 30 days and it has not started to go bad.

The Elderberry Extract does have a little bit of Malic Acid in it to prevent fermentation. My label on the bottle I received did not disclose this information. I did read this on the Amazon product page and learned about it from the company representative.

I would purchase Norm's Farms Elderberry Syrup and Elderberry Extract again. If you are looking for a way to easily and quickly boost your immunity, look to elderberries.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received. This post may contain Affiliate links. You will NOT pay more by using these links. I will receive a small kick back to support this blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own. I am not a medical professional. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Please consult with your doctor regarding taking any supplements.

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How to Make Raw Almond Milk [Recipe]

Over the past year and a half, staying at home full time with my baby and now toddler has made me realize that I spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I love making healthy, homemade items for us to enjoy. Though I appreciate the convenience of pre-packaged food, I receive great satisfaction from making something myself. I have full control over the ingredients. After a recent search for an organic almond milk without any additives or sweeteners (yes, even natural and organic ones), I decided to make my own. Vita Nut Milk Bag is the best nut milk bag for making your own nut milks, raw juices, cold brew coffees and so much more.

Vita Nut Best Nut Milk Bag           ($9.95)

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
Rounded bottom for less waste	When drawn, strings can get in the way
No tearing under heat/squeezing
Ultra-fine mesh for better filtering
Reusable, quick-drying

Making raw almond milk is an easy process with just a few steps. Vita Nut's best milk bag helps to filter out the almond milk from the almond pulp and results in easy and sanitary clean up.

Homemade Raw Almond Milk

Ingredients
1 cup raw almonds, soaked in water (cover almonds and soak overnight, 8-12 hrs)
3 cups of water
Sweeteners such as dates (3-4 dates soaked for 1 hr), raisins, prunes, agave, honey, maple syrup (optional)
Vanilla or almond extract (optional)
Pinch of sea salt, to enhance flavor (optional)

Directions

1. Place almonds in a small bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight, 8-12 hours. Can also soak for 1-2 hours, if in a pinch.
2. If using dates, raisins or prunes as your sweetener, place those in the blender with a little bit of water and blend on highest speed until creamy. 
3. Drain and rinse the almonds and place in blender with 3 cups of water, any sweeteners, vanilla/almond extract and sea salt, if using. Omit sweeteners for unsweetened raw almond milk.
4. Blend on highest speed for 1 minute.
5. Place the milk bag over a large bowl and slowly pour the almond milk mixture into the bag. 
6. Hold the top of the bag closed and squeeze the bottom of the bag to release milk. Twisting the bag can also work. This creamy liquid is the raw almond milk.
7. Pour into a glass or airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Shake container very well before using because the almond milk separates when sitting. 

Photo Directions

Drain and rinse soaked almonds. Place in blender with 3 cups of water and any other additions.

Blend on highest speed for 1 minute.

 

Place milk bag over a large bowl and slowly pour the almond milk mixture into the bag.

Let the almond milk drain, then squeeze the bottom and twist the bag to release the rest of the almond milk.

 

Notes

• A food processor can be used instead of a blender. The liquid tends to leak out, so you might want to do 2-3 batches.
• Cheese bag, cheese cloth, flour sacks, etc. can also be used. Cheese cloth tends to tear with twisting, so be careful when squeezing and twisting to release the almond milk.
• Recipe can be used to make any nut or seed milk. Most seeds do not need to be soaked or strained in the nut milk bag because they blend well with water. 
• Feel free to add any other flavorings or sweeteners to the blender.
• Liquid sweeteners can also be added to the strained milk.
• Almond pulp can be saved and used as an addition to things like yogurt, oatmeal, baked good, or dried/dehydrated to make raw almond flour.

I really liked using the Vita Nut milk bag to make my homemade raw almond milk. The bag was easy to use. I did not worry about it ripping or tearing when I was squeezing the almond milk. The almond pulp inside the bag was dry, meaning that the bag and my hands did a good job at straining the almond milk. When I was done straining the almond milk, I scooped out the almond pulp to save for muffins. I turned the milk bag inside out to get all of the almond pulp out. The rounded bottom helped to scoop everything out and resulted in easy clean up. A little natural soap and water and the milk bag was clean. The milk bag dried quickly and I reused it later for removing liquid from frozen spinach.

The strings at the top help to keep the bag cinched, but tend to get a bit long when they are drawn. I found that they got in the way while I was trying to squeeze the milk out. Maybe next time, I will tuck the strings into the bag.

Vita Nut best milk bag is the secret to quick and easy homemade nut milks, raw juices and more! No tearing, less mess and frustration, and easy clean up make Vita Nut milk bag the perfect accessory for your milk and juicing endeavors.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own.

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Healthy Whole Wheat Date Muffins [Recipe]

Ever since I have become a mom, a healthy breakfast or healthy snack that I can grab on-the-go ensures I have enough energy to make it through the day. Being able to give my child the same snack is even better! This muffin recipe originally started out as a bread that I made for years. I came across the Whole Wheat Date Nut Bread recipe in Whole Living magazine. After a while, I started experimenting with different additions and substitutions. I love the versatility and ease of this recipe. Everything I added or substituted made the bread even better. The bread is always delicious and moist.

I am sharing the original bread recipe and my adaptations (in blue). I also list some of the additions/substitutions I use every time and some that I sometimes use. My recent favorite addition (to add more nuts to my 16 month old son's diet) is to grind up nuts to a meal and add them into the batter.

Note: I have reduced the amount of sugar in the recipe by 1/4 cup and it can potentially be reduced to 1/2 cup. Sugar does play a role in baking, so be careful how much you reduce it.

Whole Wheat Date Nut Muffins

Yield: 18-24 muffins (depending on how full you fill the cups)
Bake time: 15 minutes

Vegan (sub flax egg or banana)
Dairy Free (sub flax egg or banana)
Nut Free (leave out nuts)

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups hot water
1 cup pitted dates, chopped (can also sub other dried fruit)
1 large egg (sometimes I use 2 small eggs; can sub flax egg or banana)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (I use coconut oil; can sub apple sauce (2-4 tbsp))
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour (I sub buckwheat flour or other whole grain flours)
1 cup whole-wheat flour (can sub other whole grain flours)
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon coarse salt
1 cup pecans, chopped (can sub any other nuts or leave out, whole or ground to a meal)
3/4 cup brown sugar (can reduce to 1/2 cup, can sub turbinado)

My Additions (I usually put in)
Nuts of any varieties (whole or ground)
Spices (1 tsp nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon, or ginger, 1/2 tsp cloves, all or some)
Hemp protein powder (2 tbsp)
Nutritional yeast (1 tbsp)

Other Additions (I sometimes put in)
Flax meal (2 tbsp)
Hemp seeds (2 tbsp)
Dried fruit (like raisins)
Molasses (1 tbsp)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, pour hot water over dates (and any other dried fruit) and let stand until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Whisk in egg (or flax egg or banana), oil (or apple sauce), and vanilla (and any other wet ingredients).
4. In another bowl, stir together flours, baking soda, salt, nuts, and sugar (and any other dry ingredients).
5. Fold wet mixture into dry until just combined.
6. Fill muffin pan about 3/4 full and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 15 minutes for both regular and mini muffins, or until a tester inserted in the middle comes out clean. (bread bakes for about 65 minutes)
8. Let rest 10 minutes, then remove and move to a cooling rack.

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Graindrops Organic Probiotic Beverage [Review]

Probiotic beverages are a great way to get a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. Fermentation is a great way to access these vitamins and minerals, which is why a lot of probiotic beverages are fermented. Probiotic beverages are also dairy based. For those who are following a vegan diet or cannot consume dairy, Graindrops offers an organic, GMO-free probiotic grain milk to optimize personal health and wellness. Graindrops uses Koji, an Asian fermentation culture that offers more than 40 enzymes to support our body's health.

Graindrops Probiotic Beverage   
   ($5.99)
Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
USDA Certified Organic
Naturally fermented
22-24g of whole grains per serving
Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free

Graindrops is an organic probiotic non-dairy beverage that is dairy-free and gluten-free (does contain oats). Graindrops adds agave syrup to sweeten the beverage, so I would call it cane sugar-free also. This probiotic beverage is triple cultured to result in a culture grain milk that contains natural probiotics. One of the things I really like about Graindrops is that this vegan beverage contains both prebiotics and probiotics. This combination aid digestion and increase the availability of nutrients for easier digestion. What a great way to boost immunity and maintain immunity.

Graindrops is certified gluten-free. However, it does contain gluten-free oats. Graindrops ensures that the gluten-free oats are not contaminated in the field or during processing. People who are allergic, intolerant or sensitive to gluten can also be allergic, intolerant or sensitive to oats because oats contain a similar protein to gluten. While Graindrops is gluten-free, it might not be completely allergen-free for those who react to oats.

Graindrops is available at my local Whole Foods Market. They used to have a bigger selection with more flavors, but recently reorganized the dairy and non-dairy sections and only have one of the flavors, Original. I have tried the Blueberry flavor in the past and prefer the fruit flavors to the Original flavor.

The Koji culturing method does provide an interesting flavor. Graindrops would describe it as rich, rounded, full flavor with a clean and refreshing taste. I agree! It is unlike anything I have tasted before, but I do like it. The texture is creamy with a clean finish.

For the Original flavor, I would probably add a little bit of honey or homemade fruit puree to round out the flavor. I have been adding Graindrops to smoothies to boost nutrition.

If you are looking for a dairy-free and gluten-free probiotic beverage that is naturally fermented, I recommend that you try Graindrops.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own.

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BioTerra Vision Zoom Herbal Supplement [Review]

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Natural medicine is making a comeback and becoming more common. Herbal supplements and essential oils can be a great way to keep your family healthy, prevent illnesses and help to recover from illnesses. In some situations, modern medicine might still be required. Though you cannot go wrong with pure, natural, herbal supplements as an addition to your healthy diet. BioTerra Herbs Vision Zoom Herbal Supplement promotes eye health and supports visual function.

BioTerra Herbs Vision Zoom    
   ($19.99, 60 capsules)

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
100% pure and natural herbs
No taste/aftertaste
No artificial additives or preservatives
Made in the USA

BioTerra Herbs Vision Zoom contains 100% natural and pure herbs in a vegetarian capsule with rice flour. All ingredients are Vegan, Non-GMO and Gluten-Free. Vision Zoom contains the following ingredients:

Lycium (fruit) - Latin name: Lycium chinese
Chrysanthemum (flower) - Latin name: Dendranthema x grandiflorum.
Jujube (fruit) - Latin name: Ziziphus jujuba
Asian Water Plantain (rhizome) - Latin name: Alisma plantago-aquatica
Astragalus (root) - Latin name: Astragalus mongholicus

This list of ingredients is one of the simplest for supplements. I like that the ingredients are non-GMO, especially since the capsules contain rice flour.

I have been taking two (2) capsules on an almost daily basis after a meal, as recommended. Vision Zoom does not have a taste or aftertaste. Even when smelling the capsules, there was no scent. Unlike some herbal supplements, I love that there is no smell or taste. The capsules are of standard size, soft and easy to swallow for me.

Usually, I do see many, if any, visible effects (positive or negative) from taking herbal supplements. I have been taking this one for a few weeks and did not think I was seeing any noticeable results, until last weekend. I was in a wedding, so after wearing eye make up for a rehearsal dinner and the whole next day, my eyes were itchy and red by the end of the second day. I kept taking Vision Zoom once per day. I noticed that the itching was gone within 24 hours. Great results for someone who does not, anymore, wear makeup every day and gets affected by it when it is worn.

If you experience eye allergies, wear contacts or have sensitive eyes, BioTerra Herbs Vision Zoom herbal supplement is a great addition to your diet.

Disclosure: I am not a medical professional. Information about the product was sourced from the company website. These statements have not be reviewed by the FDA, not intended to treat, cure or diagnose any conditions or diseases. Please consult your physician before starting a new supplement. I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own.

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Organic Stevia Liquid Drops [Review]

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Stevia has been around in the natural world for quite some time. Stevia plants are even becoming more available in nurseries. Stevia is a great natural alternative for those who are seeking to reduce their sugar intake by switching to a no calorie substitute. Elite Gold Solutions (EGS) Organic Sweet Stevia Gold naturally satisfies your sweet tooth with zero calories.

Organic Stevia Liquid Drops       ($22.97, 2oz)

Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
Certified Organic
No additives or dilutions	Alcohol source not specified

From all of the reading I have done about liquid Stevia, I know that the ingredients list is important. While many products include additives and flavorings, Elite Gold Solutions (EGS) Organic Sweet Stevia Gold is as pure as it can come.

Ingredients: De-ionized water, Certified Organic Stevia Extract (leaf), 11% alcohol.

The alcohol is used as a natural preservative. I would like to know the source of the alcohol since it does make up 11% of the product. Since I will mostly be using Stevia liquid drops for baking, I am not worried about alcohol being an ingredient. If you plan on using Stevia liquid drops straight out of the bottle, be sure to remember there is alcohol in this product.

I used the Stevia Liquid Drops to make my favorite date walnut muffins. I decreased the amount of sugar from 1 cup to 1/4 cup and added 1 tsp of Stevia extract. I was not quite sure how much Stevia liquid drops to add. After a bit of research, I decided to start with 1 tsp. This ended up being the right amount to substitute the 3/4 cup of sugar that I left out. The sweetness was there with no added calories.

Since this was my first time baking with Stevia liquid drops, I realized that substituting sugar for liquid Stevia might require trial and effort in some situations. In some recipe, sugar plays a bigger part than just being a sweetener.

Stevia liquid drops are a great way to add sweetness to anything from water to baked goods without adding calories or carbs. EGS's Organic Sweet Stevia has no additives, flavors or synthetic flavorings. Sweet Stevia Liquid Drops are a healthy, natural sweetener that is a good alternative to sugar.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own.

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Natural Unbleached White Matcha Powder [Review]

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Coffee is one of my favorite beverages. I love coffee so much that sometimes I drink it just for the taste. However, coffee can leave me feeling jittery and keep me awake when I go to sleep if I drink it too late in the day. This is where Matcha green tea powder is a great alternative. When I need energy and focus without jitteriness from coffee, White Matcha Tea Powder is my answer.

Unbleached Matcha White Tea Powder       ($19.99, 30g)
Rating: total green check marks out of 5.

The Good	The Not So Good
Unbleached	Not Certified Organic
Easy to mix
Good energy boost

What is Matcha? Matcha is fine ground, powdered, high quality white tea. Matcha is stone ground to a fine powder. Stone grinding preserves the flavors and healthy qualities of delicate white tea.

White MatchaTea Powder benefits:

1. All day energy with increased focus
2. Has 1% caffeine content of coffee
3. Metabolism boost
4. High antioxidant count to kill free radicals in blood stream
5. Decreases fine lines and wrinkles on the skin

Red Leaf Tea sells natural, unbleached, high grade white matcha powder of culinary grade. This means that you can use the Matcha White Tea Powder in just about anything. Mix the powder with warm water, add the powder to a smoothie, or bake muffins. This trait is very unique to Matcha Tea Powder because you can get your energy boost through various sources.

I chose to make a white matcha drink with warm milk and honey. I warmed up 1 cup of local Snowville Creamery grass-fed milk, mixed in 1/2 tsp of Matcha White Tea Powder, and added 1/2 tbsp of local raw honey. White Matcha has a greenish-brownish color. The combination of milk and Matcha White Tea Powder alone was a bit too grassy for me. The addition of honey made the drink delicious and warming.

Did I receive a lasting energy boost? Yes! I did feel the caffeine kick in (not overpowering) after a couple of sips.

When I need an alternative to coffee with an energy boost, I look to Red Leaf Tea Matcha White Tea Powder. I love that this powder can be used in drinks, smoothie, and baking and offers a long lasting mild energy boost that keeps me going for hours.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. All opinions are my own.

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