Let’s dive into some of the best options out there for each mood and learn how to brew them to perfection!

For When You Need a Moment of Calm: Chamomile

Chamomile tea is like a warm hug in a mug. Known for its gentle calming effects, it’s a go-to for winding down after a busy day. Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in your brain, helping to decrease anxiety and promote better sleep quality.

Studies suggest that chamomile can support improved sleep and even reduce symptoms of mild anxiety.

Brewing Tips: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in hot (not boiling) water for 5-7 minutes. Cover the cup while steeping to trap the essential oils that enhance the tea’s calming effect.

For When You Need Energy and Focus: Yerba Mate

Looking for a morning boost without the jitters? Yerba mate might just be your best friend. This South American favorite contains caffeine but is gentler on your system than coffee. Packed with antioxidants and minerals, yerba mate helps keep your brain and body fueled.

Research indicates it may increase energy levels, improve mental focus, and even enhance physical performance.

Brewing Tips: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of yerba mate leaves in hot water (about 70-80°C) for 3-5 minutes. Avoid using boiling water to prevent bitterness. Experiment with adding honey or a slice of lemon for extra flavor.

For When You’re Looking for a Happy Medium: Peppermint

Peppermint tea strikes a perfect balance, offering both refreshment and relaxation. The menthol in peppermint can naturally perk you up without caffeine, while its cooling properties help relieve headaches and digestive discomfort.

Some studies suggest that peppermint can improve memory and increase alertness, making it an ideal mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Brewing Tips: Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves or a few fresh leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Letting it steep longer intensifies the flavor and benefits!

For Digestion and Warming Comfort: Ginger

When your stomach feels off, ginger tea is a natural choice. Gingerols and shogaols—compounds found in ginger—help soothe the digestive system and have anti-inflammatory properties that may ease nausea and bloating.

Research shows ginger is especially effective for alleviating nausea from motion sickness and pregnancy.

Brewing Tips: Slice a piece of ginger root (about an inch long) and simmer it in water for 10-15 minutes for a stronger brew. Add a little honey or a squeeze of lemon for extra warmth.

For Sweet Dreams: Lavender

Lavender tea is often recommended as a sleep aid, thanks to its relaxing aroma and mild sedative effect. The scent of lavender alone can promote relaxation and reduce stress, and sipping it as a tea can enhance your wind-down routine.

Evidence suggests lavender can improve sleep quality and help alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Brewing Tips: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried lavender buds in hot water (not boiling) for about 5 minutes. Keep the steeping time short to avoid bitterness, and enjoy it plain or with a touch of honey.

The world of herbal teas is vast, and experimenting with different herbs can be half the fun! With so many options for different moods and needs, there’s truly a tea for every occasion.

Whether you’re looking to calm down, perk up, or just enjoy a cozy moment, herbal teas are a delightful, natural option worth exploring.

Herbal teas not only offer unique flavors but can also provide subtle yet impactful wellness benefits. So, the next time you need a mood boost—or a moment of calm—consider reaching for an herbal brew.

Recommended – 5 Quick and Healthy Breakfast Smoothies

The post The Best Herbal Teas for Every Mood: Sip Your Way to Wellness appeared first on Always Eat Good.

But cereal isn’t the best thing to put in your body, especially first thing in the morning. So, keeping this problem in mind, we came up with 5 simple smoothies that you can drink for breakfast. Not only are they packed with all the vitamins and nutrients you need, but they’re also tasty and take just a minute to make once you have all the ingredients.

I mean, these are smoothies—just grab the ingredients we list and mix ’em up!

1. Green Power Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup spinach leaves (fresh or frozen)
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• 1 cup almond milk (or your favorite milk)

If you’re someone who detests eating green veggies, this might be your way of adding Healthy Smoothies to your diet might help.

2. Berry Blast Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, these berries will fuel your day and also taste great!

3. Tropical Sunrise Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup coconut water
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon flaxseeds

The mango and pineapple provide a hydrating drink, and the coconut water gives you electrolytes to keep you going!

4. Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

This one’s for the gym bros. Rich in protein, this smoothie can be a great post-workout meal!

5. Oatmeal Cookie Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Oats are pretty healthy, but not everyone likes them because of the taste they leave in your mouth. Well, this smoothie will help you gulp it down and also taste good. Plus, the fiber from the oatmeal is a great thing to have!

Enjoy these healthy Smoothies to start your day right!

Recommended – Smart Snacking: Healthy and Delicious Alternatives for Midday Munchies

The post 5 Quick and Healthy Breakfast Smoothies appeared first on Always Eat Good.

Classic Hot Chocolate

Begin your exploration with the classic, a cup of rich and velvety hot chocolate. Elevate the experience with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa, or even a few marshmallows for that extra touch of indulgence. Consider experimenting with variations like dark chocolate or peppermint-infused cocoa for a festive twist.

Mulled Wine

Embrace the aromas of the season with a steaming mug of mulled wine. Red wine simmered with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest creates a sensory experience that captures the essence of Christmas. It’s a drink that not only warms your body but also fills the air with delightful scents.

Spiked Eggnog

No list of Christmas hot drinks is complete without the rich and creamy delight of spiked eggnog. Blend eggs, milk, sugar, and a hint of nutmeg to create this traditional favorite. For an adult twist, add a splash of your favorite spirit – rum, bourbon, or brandy – turning this classic into a festive adult indulgence.

Peppermint Mocha

Combining the seasonal flavors of peppermint and chocolate, the peppermint mocha is a delightful fusion of cool and warm. Espresso, steamed milk, chocolate syrup, and a hint of peppermint extract come together for a cozy beverage that feels like a festive hug in a cup.

Hot Apple Cider

Allow the comforting scent of simmering apples to fill your home with a mug of hot apple cider. Infuse it with spices like cinnamon and cloves for an extra layer of warmth. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of caramel or a cinnamon stick for a delightful touch.

Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Toddy

Wrap yourself in the comforting embrace of a Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Toddy. This timeless concoction combines warm water, honey, a splash of lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick. Add a generous pour of your favorite whiskey for an extra layer of warmth. Sip this soothing elixir slowly, and feel the stress of the season melt away.

Gingerbread Latte

Capture the essence of freshly baked gingerbread in a mug with a Gingerbread Latte. Brew a robust cup of coffee or espresso and infuse it with the warm, comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Top it off with steamed milk and a dollop of whipped cream, creating a nostalgic blend that transports you to holiday seasons past.

Warm Vanilla Chai

Let the exotic aromas of chai spices fill your home with a cup of Warm Vanilla Chai. Steep black tea in a mixture of milk and warming spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Enhance the experience with a touch of vanilla extract and sweeten to taste. This aromatic beverage is a soothing escape into a world of fragrant spices and vanilla sweetness.

As the winter winds howl outside, these cozy Christmas hot drinks beckon you to slow down, savor the moment, and revel in the festive spirit. Whether you’re creating a new holiday tradition or adding a twist to a classic favorite, these warm elixirs are sure to bring joy and comfort to your heart. So, gather around the fireplace, share stories with loved ones, and let the warmth of these delightful concoctions make your Christmas celebrations truly special. Cheers to the magic in every sip!

Check out our recipe on Spiced Cranberry Orange Holiday Muffins to go with your cozy Christmas hot drinks!

The post Warmth in a Cup: Cozy Christmas Hot Drinks to Sip by the Fire appeared first on Always Eat Good.

Video Overview

A short list of common ailments that are helped by using the juicing method is found below.  Find the full list of juicing remedies here.

Juice for Colds:

Colds are miserable. To experience relief from cold symptoms, mix carrots, pineapple, ginger, garlic and lemon into a juice.  Carrots boost the immune system with high amounts of beta-carotenes. Add some ginger as an excellent remedy for an upset stomach and pain reliever. Pineapple is inserted as an infection and bacteria buster and inflammation fighter.  It also assists the lemon in expelling excess mucus that comes with a cold.

Juice for Indigestion:

An upset stomach, especially the kind that comes when the flu rolls into town, is miserable. Ironically, the juicing recipe for indigestion is nearly identical to the recipe for colds. In fact, this recipe contains fresh pineapple, carrots, and lemon, which are all found in the cold remedy. With the addition of a mint leaf  it makes for a perfect indigestion remedy. Be aware, however, that mint has properties that cause heartburn.

Juice for Headaches:

Headaches and migraines are another common malady that can be remedied with the a juice combination. Relieve a nasty headache or migraine with the following combination.  Apples, a long english cucumber, 4 kale leaves, fresh ginger root, and celery.  The flavonoids in apples help reduce blood pressure and alleviate headaches, especially when eaten on an empty stomach. Cucumbers and celery are 95% water which is a known headache reliever. Kale is rich in omega-3, magnesium and fiber and it is anti-inflammatory, making it what could be categorized as a migraine superfood. Ginger root is helpful for those suffering from upset stomach, which is a common symptom of many migraine sufferers.

Juice for Kidney Stones:

For anyone who has experience with kidney stones it is understood that excruciating pain is a symptom. The juice recommendation for preventing kidney stones, or breaking them up when formed includes oranges, apples, watermelon and lemon.  Oranges are high in vitamin C which has been praised for prevention and clearing of kidney stones. Doctors, additionally, recommend a diet high in fruits and vegetables. The more fruits and vegetables in your everyday diet, the less likely you will experience kidney stones at all.  However, if this diet change doesn’t alleviate kidney stones, the juicing recipe offers the solution. Watermelon, in addition to being a diuretic, it is high in potassium salts. Potassium salts assist in regulation of acidity.  This combination is a powerful preventative measure and aids in the break-up of painful kidney stones.

Juice for Fatigue:

Fatigue accompanies nearly every ailment and, for many, is the worst part of being sick. Many fight fatigue with caffeines, such as soft drinks, coffees and teas. However, the caffeine in these drinks is often accompanied by high amounts of sugar.   This combination will add to your fatigue and frequent drinkers will suffer from dehydration. The best way to fight fatigue is with a diet or juicing recipe rich in fruits and vegetables.  Beet root, carrots, lemon, spinach and green apples are the make-up of this juice that fights fatigue and increases energy. Beet root boosts blood flow, which improves oxygen concentration and allows nutrients to be more quickly dispersed throughout the body. This higher concentration of nutrients in the blood allows the oxygen to be stored in the muscles for a longer period of time. This allows for increased energy and sustainability.

There are 13 additional juice recipes for other conditions and ailments. Whether you are experiencing arthritis pain, stress, memory loss, vision impairment, nervousness, or even a hangover, there is a juice for you.

The post 5 Juices for Everyday Ailments appeared first on Always Eat Good.

Truth is however, they have quite the array of of health benefits.

Video Overview

1. Beets are low in calories and have absolutely ZERO trans fat and ZERO saturated fat which means they can sate your hunger AND you won’t feel guilty. They also tend to be on  the sweeter side so you can get a guilt-free fix for your sweet tooth. 

2. Beets naturally fuel the body with energy since they have so many carbohydrates.

3. Beets are jam packed with minerals and vitamins…I mean, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorous, vitamin A, vitamin C, niacin and they are also considered a fiber food. You really can’t get any better than that.

4. Plenty of studies have proven that beets can protect you against heart disease and cancer.

5. There are many people who take folic acid as a herbal supplement. It is especially important for pregnant women and people going through a physical healing process since it is a major part of both the production and maintenance of  new cells.

6. Beets have been known to cleanse the blood and the colon as well as strengthen the gallbladder and liver.

7. Doctors sometimes use beets to help those with blood diseases, leukemia and even get rid of tumors with something called Beet Therapy.

8. There are people who use beets to treat and cure abscesses, acne, and boils. I’m not sure how it’s done exactly but I would assume it’s done topically instead of by ingestion.

I tried to find recipes with the least amount of cooking to keep the nutrients as pure as possible so here’s a salad and a juice.

Beet and Apple Salad

Ingredients

2 Apples – sliced thin
4 Celery Stalks – sliced thin with leaves
1 Shallot – minced
1 Lemon – juiced
1 Beet – peeled then sliced into matchsticks
1 tsp sugar
3 tbsp chopped walnuts
3 tbsp olive oil

Toss all into a bowl and salt and pepper to taste. Let stand 10 minutes, then serve on a bed of sliced endive.

Pineapple Beet Treat (Juice)
2 beets
1/2 a cucumber
1 cup of pineapple flesh

Beet Cleanse Juice
2 beets
3 carrots
1/2 an apple
1/2 a cucumber
2 celery stalks
1″ slice of ginger

~Alancia M

The post SuperFoods: B – Beets appeared first on Always Eat Good.

They can be used in hair masks, face masks, and of course they can be ingested.

From what I’ve gained from my reading, the real saying should be “A banana a day keeps the doctor away” because bananas have more have two times as many carbohydrates as an apple, five times as much Vitamin A and iron and three times as much phosphorus.

It should also be mentioned that bananas are rich in potassium and natural sugars.

Video Overview

Okay, so what makes bananas a superfood?

1. As a result of all their vitamins and minerals, bananas provide great amounts of natural energy.

Eating just two bananas will give you enough energy to work out for a full hour and a half. They are also better than drinking caffeine throughout the day because you get all the energy and none of the crash.

2. Bananas have a naturally occurring chemical in them called tryptophan which helps to increase your spirit and keep you in a good mood.

3. For all the women who experience abdominal pains during that time of the month, eating bananas instead of taking pills can also be a great help.

Bananas contain a level of vitamin B6 that helps to keep blood glucose levels normal and boost your mood.

4. Eating one banana with your daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) can increase brain power because of their potassium.

5. Bananas are great after a night of drinking.

A few bananas to ease the stomach, some plain yogurt, a bit of honey to regulate blood sugar, mix it up in a blender an voila! A pre-hangover remedy.

6. Bananas can be a pregnant woman’s knight in shining armor when it comes to morning sickness.

Their vitamins, minerals, and calming properties can fight morning sickness, replenish the blood glucose level, and keep a pregnant woman’s temperature normal.

7. You can rub the inside peel of a banana on mosquito bites to reduce itchiness and swelling.

8. Bananas can counteract the acids some foods leave in the stomach and thereby can soothe stomach ulcers.

They naturally leave a protective coat around the inner walls of the digestive system promoting good digestive health.

9. Because of the amounts of iron in bananas they can help those who are iron deficient aka anemic.

10. Bananas can get rid of warts. The trick is to wrap the banana peel so that the outside of it rubs against the wart.

Peachy Keen Banana Smoothie

• 2   whole Chiquita Bananas, (frozen or fresh), peeled and chopped
• 1   large Peach, peeled and sliced
• 1   (6-oz.) carton nonfat Greek vanilla yogurt
• 1   dash Nutmeg, optional

Mango Banana Smoothie

• 1/2 Banana
• 1/2 Mango
• 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup of milk

And that’s it… that’s about all I have for you on bananas today.

If you are looking for banana treats, here are some of our absolute favorites!

Banana Mochi

Banana Keto Cereal

Banana Chips!

The post SuperFood: B – Bananas appeared first on Always Eat Good.

Compared to common fruits like apples, bananas, oranges, and pears, apricots get no play. (Don’t be ashamed though, I’m just as guilty of overlooking these fruits.)

The fact remains however, apricots are just as healthy and versatile as those fruits, if not more so.

Not only are they healthy, apricots are also very low in calories. There are only about 50 calories in three apricots. That’s right just THREE!

Like many fruits, there are a few different kinds of apricots. Usually though, you’ll only find one or two different kinds at your neighborhood market.

Fortunately, every apricot has the same health benefits so you would only have to make your choice based on taste not its benefit.

Here are some of the benefits I could find…

Video Overview

Cancer Prevention
Apricots have powerful antioxidants that aid in protecting the body from free radical activity and damage to cells and DNA.

Also, apricot seeds fight cancer due to their laetrile (aka B17) content.

High In Antioxidants

They are great sources of vitamins A and C, providing 20% of one’s daily value per serving.

Heart Health
Studies show that the beta carotene found in apricots play a positive role in cardiovascular health and heart disease prevention. They also help prevent oxidation to LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and detoxify the blood.

High In Fiber
The high fiber content in apricots could be vital in colon health. It’s great for digestion, helps balance metabolism, and aids in maintaining a healthy body weight.

Eye Health
The vitamin A and carotenoids in apricots help strengthen the eyes.

Anemia
Apricots contain a good amount of iron and copper, both of which may help in the formation of hemoglobin.

Skin Health
Rubbing apricot oil on the skin may help calm the symptoms of ailments such as eczema and scabies.

Weight Loss
As I mentioned before, apricots are a low calorie, nutrient rich food source and because of that, they are great fruits to add to a weight loss plan.

I don’t know about you, but I plan to go out and buy some as soon as I can.

As usual, eating fruits and veggies as raw as possible is the best way to go so here are a few apricot smoothie recipes for you to try.

Apricot-Strawberry Smoothie
2-4 apricots
1 apple
½ cup strawberries
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1 whole carrot
1/2 – 1 cup water

Apricot-Ginger Smoothie
2-4 apricots
1 apple
1 small stalk celery
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1 tbs ginger (to taste)
1/2 cup water

Apricot-Peach Smoothie
2 apricots
1 peach
1 whole carrot (optional)
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1/2 cup water

Apricot-Banana Smoothie
2-4 apricots
1 whole banana
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1/2 cup water

Thanks for reading you guys! If you try any of these smoothies, have a recipe of your own, or would just like to say HI, feel free.

Below are some of our top picks for  Dried Appricots that are so yummy you gotta give them a try!

Herbalia Dried Apricots

Oh! Nuts Dried Turkish Apricots

Dried Apricot Fruit Snack by Fuel by Nature

The post SuperFood: A – Apricots appeared first on Always Eat Good.

I’m sure you’ve heard the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”… Well, apples can…

Video Overview

1. Aid in getting you whiter, healthier teeth

2. Help you avoid Alzheimer’s

3. Protect against Parkinson’s

4. Curb many kinds of caners

5. Decrease your  risk of diabetes

6. Reduce cholesterol

7. Get a healthier heart

8. Prevent gallstones

9. Beat diarrhea and constipation

10. Neutralize irritable bowel syndrome

11. Avert hemorrhoids

12. Control  your weight

13. Detoxify your liver

14. Boost your immune system

15. Prevent cataracts

Eating them raw is the best way to get the full benefits that they provide. Here are a few simple apple smoothies you can make…

Apple-Lemon
2 apples
1/2 lemon juiced
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1 whole carrot
1/2 cup of water

Apple-Grape
1 apple
1 cup red grapes
1 whole carrot
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1/2 cup water

Apple-Pear-Banana
1 apple
1 banana
1 pear
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1 stalk of celery
1/2 – 1 cup water

Apple-Blueberry
1 apple
1 cup blueberries
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
¼ avocado
1/2 cup water

Apple Green
2 apples
2 cups fresh baby spinach (or other leafy green)
1 celery stalk (optional)
1/2 cup water

Making Smoothies are super quick and easy, especially if you have the perfect smoothie maker! Our all time favorite Nutribullet Blender does a fantastic job!

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, the Magic Bullet Blender performs and delivers, at a lesser price.

The post SuperFood: A – Apple appeared first on Always Eat Good.

The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry has made claims that a drink of coffee contains around 1g of soluble fibre per cup. This is a positive piece of news for coffee drinkers as this is the type of fibre that helps lower bad cholesterol levels. This information might make you wonder how a liquid drink can possibly contain fibre, but most people won’t worry about that in favour of this new intelligence. Coffee has long been linked to a number of benefits that are related to good health.

Video Overview

Coffee shouldn’t provide all of your fibre needs

This type of dietary fibre naturally dissolves in water and the parts that help prevent cholesterol are absorbed by the intestines and are more efficient than wine or orange juice. But wait – if you are considering getting your dietary fibre needs just from coffee, it won’t work. You would need to consume about 17 cups of instant coffee to reach the recommended daily intake of around 31g. This amount of dietary fibre is based upon the standard 2000 calorie daily diet.

Researchers from Harvard University linked nine separate studies involving almost 200,000 people while looking into a range of information about diabetes. Initially they found that regular coffee drinkers carried a much lower risk of getting type II diabetes than those who avoided coffee. The report went further to suggest that the more coffee people drink, then the lower the risk.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has carried out a study which reports that healthy people over the age of 65 who drink at least 4 cups of caffeinated coffee a day showed a more than 53% lower risk of sustaining a heart disease, compared to non-coffee drinkers.

The body learns to tolerate changes

The Harvard School of Public Health has issued information that suggests that any effects which temporarily raise the heart rate and blood pressure which make cells more resistant to insulin after drinking coffee are temporary because people develop a long-term tolerance. They go on to propose that after long and varied coffee tests, over the longer term, people who drink coffee more regularly will experience longer lasting effects for the benefit of their health.

Despite all of the research around coffee, the studies haven’t completely identified any of the necessary cause and effects relationships. Chlorogenic acid, which is closely related to polyphenols in grapes, acts as an antioxidant. As one of the top sources of antioxidants in a person’s diet, an equivalent single serving of coffee has more antioxidants than blueberries. They help suppress inflammation which will probably explain why coffee has had such a great effect in diseases like diabetes and heart disease which are inflammation related.

There is a belief that cells are much more sensitive against insulin because of the amount of magnesium in coffee. Caffeine has long been known to have an entire range of favourable effects. In particular, diabetes studies found a benefit to caffeine coffee drinkers over decaf for reducing the risk of diabetes. One part of the report suggests that you might need to move from decaf to full caffeinated coffee drinking because there is evidence of a much reduced risk of gallstones, cirrhosis, Parkinson’s disease and liver cancer.

Nevertheless, experts are not suggesting that people start drinking caffeinated coffee to prevent disease. New mothers, in particular, should be aware that caffeine can pass into breast milk and you wouldn’t want your young children being awake anymore than they usually are during the first two years of their lives as their time sleep is the mother’s time to rest.

Harvard is quite clear that for most people, there is no reason to change their coffee drinking practices and there is certainly no reason whatsoever to cut back or refuse coffee altogether.

Here are Food Network’s Top Three Best Coffee:

Best Overall: Stumptown Coffee Roasters

Runner-up Best Overall: Intelligentsia Coffee

Best Instant: Mount Hagen

Damien Higgins writes for Eden Springs who supply business coffee machines.

Image credit

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