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The Daniel Cure Review and Giveaway

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The Daniel Cure

The Daniel Cure

It isn’t often that I find a book that pairs my passion for healthy eating with my faith. The Daniel Cure is the most remarkable book I’ve read this year, filled with the science behind healthy eating, truth from scripture, over 75 recipes and a 21 day devotional. It is written by Susan Gregory author of the book The Daniel Fast and Rick J. Bloomer PhD, who is also the Department Chair of Health and Sport Sciences at the University of Memphis, and Professor and Director of the Cardiorespiratory/Metabolic Laboratory.

Background

The Daniel Fast is derived from the book of Daniel and is usually practiced as a 21 day partial fast.

When Daniel and the other Hebrews were taken into Babylonian captivity they were supposed to accept all of the Babylonian ways. Daniel and his friends refused, asking not to eat the King’s food because it violated Mosaic Law. They asked for a test, “Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.”

At the end of the test Daniel and the others were fit and strong and allowed to continue their way of eating.

Later in Daniel 10, Daniel does a partial fast for 21 days and prays.

Today’s Daniel Fast

Today the Daniel Fast consists of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds; basically anything grown from a seed but avoids sweeteners, meat and wine among other things.

People all over the world have seen radical changes in their health after doing a Daniel Fast. Since a fast is a Spiritual experience many have also found answer to prayer, supernatural healing and other amazing things happen during the fast.

The Daniel Cure

The Daniel Cure takes the 21 day fast a step further and clearly shows you everything you need to know to adapt the Daniel Fast into a sustainable lifestyle. The authors encourage you to complete the Daniel Fast first but to continue this variation in the diet that will make it much easier to continue. I feel like my style of eating is very much in line with the Daniel Cure. I don’t make anything “off limits” but strive to eat healthy, whole foods most of the time.

In the chapter, Making the Daniel Cure a Way of Life the authors say, “Keep in mind that your new way of healthy living doesn’t mean you can never have a piece of cake or a Coke. We know that you will not eat clean food for every meal from this day forward for the rest of your life. Such a goal is an invitation to failure.”

I couldn’t agree more and I’ve been pretty vocal about making the diet change work in the real world.

Helpful Chapters

The Daniel Cure also includes many chapters about fighting diseases like Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease and fighting inflammation. Those are preceded by a chapter that discusses the way we view ourselves and the way our Creator views us.

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?  For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NKJV

Press on Toward the Goal

I sought out a Plant-Based Diet because I was sick, but I adopted it to honor God by treating my body like His temple.

Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lied ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14

The Daniel Cure is a great resource to help you on this journey. This book will give you guidelines about what to eat, how often and how much along with tips to help you navigate grocery shopping, sample menus and meal planning tips.

Recipes

If you’ve read My Plant-Based Family for long you know I like delicious meals but they also need to be pretty simple. I’m completely won over by the recipes in this book, they use familiar ingredients that I normally buy. I really want to try the Stuffed Potato Cups with Sautéed Kale, Spicy Tomato Sauce and the Berry Crumble.

However…

There are a few things in the Daniel Cure that aren’t quite in line with my eating philosophy. I feel I should mention them even though I highly recommend this book. I am not a big fan of protein powders or supplements. While the authors say, “You don’t need animal products to obtain protein and calcium in adequate amounts. With proper planning, you can get all of the protein, carbohydrates, fat and micronutrients you need from a 100 percent plant-based diet” they highly recommend you use protein powders and calcium supplements. They also feel that “the addition of small amounts of animal products (lean meats and dairy) might make your diet even better.” This might be because many people who claim to eat a plant-based or vegan diet do not really eat a healthy diet.

The Giveaway

I enjoyed reading The Daniel Cure so much that I’m really excited that you have the chance to win a copy! The giveaway is open to those in the US and Canada and ends on November 12 at 12:00 am.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

FTC Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the Daniel Cure, I was not obligated to provide a positive review. All opinions are mine.

Meal Plan Monday: Cold Weather Recipes to Keep Warm

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Plant-Based Meal Plan for NovemberThis Plant-Based Meal Plan is full of warm recipes that are perfect for cold weather. Of course I still add a few salads in here an there.

Recently my boys (age 2 and 4) wanted a snack. I excitedly asked, “want some lettuce” and to my surprise they said yes. Ever since I’ve been offering them lettuce for snack. The 4 year old prefers “crunchy” lettuce.  It just goes to show that if you keep offering your family healthy choices eventually they will eat them.

Plant-Based Meal Plan

Breakfast

Lunch

  • Black Bean and Roasted Corn Salsa with Baked Potato and Salad
  • Gluten-Free Veggie Wraps with warm Roasted Veggies
  • Sunbutter Sandwiches with sliced fruit
  • Black Bean Quesadillas and Mexican Rice
  • Leftover soup or noodles

Snacks

Dinner

This weekend I’ll have a booth at the FITT for Life Expo in Florence, Arizona. It’s a free event for the whole family.

Favorite Plant-Based Freezer Foods

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Favorite Plant-Based Freezer Foods

 

Favorite Plant-Based Freezer Foods

There are several foods that I always keep in my freezer. Freezing food can save time and money when done right. I’m not talking about frozen veggies but I try to keep those handy also. Here is my list of my favorite plant-based freezer food.

Cooked Whole Beans

I buy and cook dry beans in bulk then freeze them in individual or family size portions. When I’m out of beans I’m tempted to use canned, which may be ok but they are more expensive and often high in sodium and sometimes weird ingredients. If you’ve never bought and cooked dry beans is really easy, check out my How to Cook Dry Beans Guide.

Once your beans are cooked and cooled just chose a container, I sometimes use freezer bags or plastic container (I have little boys so I’m not ready to convert to glass), label and store. I’ve successfully stored several varieties of whole beans, including lentils. You can drain them or freeze them in the liquid, which ever you prefer.

Cooked beans can be added to a number of dishes or eaten plain. Next time you plan to cook beans just double it and freeze half.

Unfried Beans

If you have tried my Unfried Black Beans or Unfried Pinto Beans you know they are life changing! They also freeze really well, even more life changing. These are perfect for Nachos or Burritos (which are also great to freeze).

Grains

I often cook grains in bulk and sometimes it ends up being way more than we can eat. Simply choose a container, label and freeze. Some grains may lose their texture slightly. I prefer to use frozen grains in soups or casseroles because they usually need more liquid. Most of the time I freeze rice or quinoa since they are both gluten-free.

Muffins and Breads

Do you ever have company come over and need a snack for a crowd? Maybe you are doing to a birthday party and need an allergy-friendly treat for you little one. Freezing Breads and Muffins are the perfect solution. If you need gluten-free baked goods I recommend Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins (with or without chocolate chips), Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins, or Gluten-Free Apple Muffins.

If gluten isn’t an issue you simply must try my recipe for Worlds Best Banana Bread, this delicious Pumpkin Bread or my Blueberry Muffins.

Soups and Chili

I always try to save at least one serving of soup or chili but I love them so much it is hard to resist finishing it all. I usually store these in wide mouth containers so I can easily dump them in a pot to defrost. I don’t think I’ve tried freezing soups with noodles but I’ve been successful with several different veggie based soups including Potato & Broccoli Soup, Green Chili, Cilantro & Lime Soup, Enchilada Soup and Taco Soup. Chili also freezes really well. Try freezing it in individual portions so you can grab it quickly for lunch. Simply let it defrost throughout the morning then heat at lunch time.

Mashed Potatoes

One year we made way to many mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving but I learned a valuable lesson, Mashed Potatoes freeze really well. I prefer to store them in a containers that can easily be dumped into a bowl for defrosting. You could even whip up a big batch before the holidays to save time, just don’t forget to defrost the day before.

Chocolate Mousse

Although it’s a little too cool for frozen treats I can’t help but mention how delicious Chocolate Mousse is frozen. It’s perfect in Popsicle molds or even in a shallow dish.

What is your favorite plant-based freeze food?

3 Tips to Break the Soda Addiction

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Are you a soda drinker? I’ll admit that I enjoy a good fizzing drink now and then but it can turn into a bit of a problem for me. It’s an addiction. I want to help you break the soda addiction for good!

Does soda have a place in a plant-based diet? I don’t think it does, at least not a big place.

3 Tips to Break the Soda Addiction

3 Tips to Break the Soda Addiction

If you find yourself drinking soda after soda I have news for you! Now it’s time to break that soda addiction. I’m not saying never have another drink of soda but don’t let it be in control. If you have to have it to get through your day then it is an addiction.

Deal with the Real Problem

I used to jump on the soda bandwagon while on long trips. Soda is convenient and you can find it everywhere. Plus it is a socially acceptable way to cope with your problems. People will often reach for soda when stressed or frustrated.

During those stressful times when I’m tempted to “chase away” the problem with food or drink I literally say out loud, “I know this soda, coffee, chocolate, etc. (fill in your blank) wont take away this situation but I’m choosing to have it anyway.” For some reason I feel like addressing it out loud helps me gain perspective and make a better choice.

Eat Well

As I mentioned in the previous point some people replace (or supplement) meals with soda. While soda will contribute quite a few calories it will not provide any nutrition. I’ve found that when I eat well I don’t want to screw that up by drinking soda. On our road trips we don’t eat as well as we do at home, eating poorly seems to go hand in hand with soda consumption. Soda doesn’t sound as appetizing after a day of healthy eating.

Pull a Switcheroo

The biggest thing I do when getting off of soda is switch to sparkling water. I love the “burn” I get from sparkling or carbonated water. Sometimes I’ll add lime. Sparkling water can get expensive (as can soda) but I usually stick to the store brands. I don’t drink it constantly but will enjoy it for a few days while I’m kicking the habit. There are other brands too that are made with better ingredients. My husband likes Zevia Soda, it is sweetened from stevia. It could get expensive if you had a big soda habit but I think you are better off using it to break the habit then enjoy it as an occasional treat.

Do you have a soda/coffee/chocolate/etc. problem? How do you deal with it?

For more great tips visit my Tips for Plant-Based Living Pinterest Board!

Meal Plan Monday: The Post Road Trip Detox

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mpm 10-28

We just returned from a week-long, 3300 mile road trip and boy do I feel bleh. Even making the best choices (most of the time) I feel pretty gross. Now that we are back I’m determined to detox all of the sugar, caffeine, chocolate, and grease I ingested during the trip. Tomorrow I’ll let you in on part of my plan for this detox but today I’ll just fill you in on my Plant-Based Meal Plan. My approach with this Meal Plan has two parts, first is to include as many fruit and veggies as possible and second is use up a lot of stuff from my freezer. I have a lot of odds and ends in the freezer and they take up a lot of room. I’d really like to empty it out as much as possible.

Plant-Based Meal Plan

Breakfast

Lately I’ve been struggling to eat breakfast in the morning. I always encourage oatmeal but this week I’ll eat other options too.

Lunch

I plan to eat a lot of soup this week because I eat more veggies in a bowl of soup that I would ever eat on their own. To make your soup stretch a little further try pouring it on top of a baked potato.

Snacks

We have eaten so many unhealthy snacks lately they I really want to so better this week.

  • Smoothies for my hubby and boys, I’m not a smoothie unless it is chocolate peanut butter smoothie
  • Apples and Sunbutter
  • Raw Veggies and Hummus
  • Soups
  • Baked Goods in my freezer

Dinner

I always strive to prepare a filling dinner, beans is the not-so-secret ingredient that keeps us feeling comfortable full all evening.

Last week I shared The Cheapest Plant-Based Meal Plan Ever! I hope you took a look at the FREE Printable Shopping List that accompanied it. I was sad to see apple prices shoot up this week at my local grocery store, that would wreak havoc on keeping the Meal Plan under $55. I’d just switch to pears which were about 77¢ per pound. Do you need a “recovery” period after vacations to get back on track?

North Coast Organics Lotion Bar Giveaway

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North Coast Organics Lotion Bars

Have you tried using a lotion bar? Yes, you read that right a lotion bar. Well if you haven’t tried North Coast Organics new Certified Organic, Vegan and Handmade Lotion Bars you don’t know what you are missing.

You all know I’m a HUGE FAN of North Coast Organics line of deodorants that include Death By Lavender, Revolver and Naked. I’ve never used a deodorant that stopped the stink, especially through an Arizona summer like North Coast Organics deodorants.

They sent me their new lotion bars to try out and once more I’m in love. I’ve used a different brand of lotion bar but it left something to be desired. North Coast Organics Lotion Bars are easy to rub in and leave my hands feeling soft and protected for hours. There is no weird film that some heavy-duty creams leave behind.

These handmade lotion bars come in Lemon, Floral and Untitled. I’ve always loved anything lemon scented and tried the Lemon Lotion Bar first. I love it. I usually put it on first thing in the morning and I love it’s clean, fresh scent. I was originally skeptical of the Floral bar but this is a nice, pleasant scent that is not perfume-y or overwhelming. Untitled may be my favorite though. It’s great for men or women. I use it every night. They are made from food grade products so you don’t have to worry if you  2 year old tries to eat one.

I’m the kind of person who uses lotion daily. When the cooler weather sets in my skin gets drier but these lotion bars will help keep my skin smooth and soft.

If you want to stock up North Coast Organics has generously offered a 30% off coupon to My Plant-Based Family readers and one lucky reader will win a set of three Lotion Bars. The coupon code is 30LBAR and is good throughout the giveaway.

This is a Rafflecopter giveaway! There are several ways to enter but hurry because the giveaway will end on November 2nd. This giveaway is open to those in the US and Canada.

FTC Disclaimer: No compensation was received for this review. I was given free product to review but the opinions are 100% honest and my own. I was not under any obligation to write a positive review.