Beets, where have you been all my life?

I think it's safe to say that the majority of people I know do not like beets. In fact, I think the word despise even comes to mind. I too used to want nothing to do with these ruby red roots. They had a bitter taste and the consistency freaked me out. However, times have changed. I now eat these bad boys a few times a week. It's not necessarily that my taste buds changed, but once I became aware of the health benefits I said to myself I WILL LIKE THEM. 

I use them the most in my smoothies or juices. It's a great way to reap the benefits but not have to eat them whole. They are also great on salads. Just take some spinach, walnuts, goat cheese and then add some beets in there- killer. I now love the taste of beets and never thought that would happen. So, give it a shot as they are insanely good for your bod. Give yourself time to get used to the taste.

So for all of you beet haters out there, check out these amazing health benefits below and try to slowly incorporate them into your life! 

Low in calories

Stimulates liver function

Rich in fiber, vitamin c, magnesium, iron

Boosts energy

Reduces cholesterol & triglycerides
Anti-inflammatory

Natural colon cleanser

Rich in potassium

Purifier for the blood

Lessens tumor cell growth

Immune system booster
Contains betacyanins which counteract cancer

Promotes digestive tract health

 

Inspired yet? As you can see, the benefits are endless...

If there is a time when you bite into that beet and immediately want to spew it out, hopefully this list will be imprinted in your head (or at least on your fridge) and change your mind :) They really do grow on you and can be so beneficial to your health and wellness path.

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is God's gift to creation. There is no other way to describe it. Not only are there so many health benefits, but it couldn't be any more natural. It's made from apples for God's sake. It amazes me how something that contains basically two ingredients; apples and purified water ( which is needed to dilute a bit as the acidity is very high) can have so many benefits for your health. The apples are fermented to hard apple cider and then fermented again to apple cider vinegar. It contains what they call the "mother" of vinegar which are strand-like protein enzymes. You want the 'mother' in your lives, trust me.

I have pushed apple cider vinegar on many people and I'll admit it. I've done it at work with co-workers, friends and even people I had just met. That's how much I believe in this stuff. The two reactions I get the most from people are 1) It tastes like crap and is hard to drink 2) It makes their stomachs upset.

I too felt the same way about this stuff in the beginning. However, I have a solution to both. I personally like to mix it with warm water and honey. I don't make a huge cup of it but I definitely have to take a few gulps till it's gone. The reason I do it that way is the honey/warm water combo is soothing and takes the acidity of the apple cider vinegar down a few notches. It also masks the taste a bunch. I think it's easier on your stomach as well to do it this way as opposed to just taking a shot of it. 

I also recommend eating something immediately after you drink it. You can drink it at any time of the day but I always drink it right before a meal and I never have issues with an upset stomach. 

Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits: 

 Aids in weight loss (should I stop here?)
Rich in natural enzymes and potassium
Helps with digestion and pH Balance
Detoxifies and supports immune system
Great for your skin, face, hair and muscles

A few little tricks of mine

* I like to use it after I shampoo my hair. It will leave your hair healthy and shiny. I would do this about three times a week. Just add about 1/2 tbs of apple cider vinegar and a cup of water to a bottle of some sort and put it on after you shampoo your hair, then rinse. You will see results!

* I put about 2 cups into my bath water a few times a week. It's great for your skin and if you are working out regularly, which I know you all are (or better be!) it's very soothing to your muscles. 

* I always keep a bottle in my bathroom cabinet and one in the kitchen for easy access. A bit obsessive? Not at all. 

* If you have a sore throat, skip the Halls drops and drink warm water with honey, cinnamon and apple cider vinegar. It works so well I'm baffled every time. You do have to be consistent with it until it heals but as long as you don't have full on strep throat, it works like a charm! 

*One last tip, always make sure you buy the right kind. Make sure it's organic, unfiltered, unheated and unpasteurized. I always go with Bragg's! 

*This is a 32 ounce bottle almost gone after a week. Didn't stand a chance the second it hit my shopping cart. Goodness goes fast in our house :)

Kick start your week by introducing your body to Bragg's if you haven't already.

I can ensure you, once introduced, it will be a lifelong relationship. 

Click here for the Bragg's site