Seize The Day Blog

Health-Related Articles & Recipes

From My Recipe Box to Yours: Snickerdoodles

Yes, it’s true…I am a cinnamon addict! So, naturally, snickerdoodles are my absolute favorites cookies! The chewy goodness that is a snickerdoodle cookie made that happen. This recipe, in particular, is one that I have been making for years & years. It is super simple and the cookies always taste good even if mistakes are made during the baking process. Add too much sugar? Not enough flour? Forget the vanilla? No problem! They will still taste good! This is a very forgiving recipe and the dough is absolute heaven! Snickerdoodles are always a hit at family gatherings!

As an epileptic, I cannot eat chocolate due to the natural caffeine in cacao. It interacts very poorly with my anti-epileptic drugs, as well, so I have two very good reasons to avoid chocolate completely. This might seem like a tragedy to the chocolate-addicts out there, however, these cookies fill that void very successfully!

Cinnamon and Sugar are a magical combo! Check it out for yourself and try the recipe below!

Bon Appetit!!

Print
Snickerdoodles

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Category: Dessert

Servings: 30 cookies

Snickerdoodles

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Butter
  • 1 1/2 cups Sugar
  • 2 Large Eggs
  • 2 3/4 cups Flour
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • 3 T Sugar
  • 3 T Cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 F
  2. In a kitchen aid mixer on low speed, mix the butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar.
  3. While the mixer is stirring add each egg in one by one until all ingredients are combined.
  4. In a separate bowl mix the flour, baking soda, and salt together.
  5. Once combined, add dry ingredients to the butter mixture in the mixer and continue to mix on low speed.
  6. In a small bowl, combine 3 T sugar and 3 tsp cinnamon.
  7. Scoop or roll 1 inch balls of dough and roll each in the sugar/cinnamon mixture.
  8. Place on an uncreased cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
  9. Remove from the pan immediately and place cookies on a cooling rack.
  10. Eat immediately or place under a covered dish when cool to ensure freshness. Enjoy!
https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2019/07/from-my-recipe-box-to-yours-snickerdoodles/

 

 

Vitamin D: A Prime Cornerstone of Your Total Body Health

 

What comes to mind when I mention Vitamin D??? Probably sunshine, milk, and maybe even fish. For me, I always think of the milk jugs at the grocery store. Especially the one with the cute little logo of a cow and the huge balloon letters above announcing “Vitamin D Added” and basically screaming to the consumer “Yes, this is healthy, please buy me!!!” Society has taught us to associate Vitamin D with milk or sunshine, however, it has failed to convey that Vitamin D is so much more than spotted cows and sun rays. For starters, Vitamin D isn’t a vitamin at all! This so-called “vitamin” is actually a hormone and it is a crucial part of your well-being…

We’re always told that we need Vitamin D to be healthy, but we’re never informed of the reasons why. Why is it so important that I drink milk, eat fish, and spend time out in the sunshine?? As a child, I always figured that Vitamin D is necessary because it is called a Vitamin so my body must need it…that seems reasonable enough, right? The answer to this question is always YES. Your body does need Vitamin D to function properly. However, your body needs the correct amount and the correct form of Vitamin D in order to supplement your body’s need for this important nutrient. 

In my case, I simply believed that my body was getting ALL of the necessary vitamins and minerals through the chewable Flintstones vitamins I had every morning as a child. Little did I know these supplements are actually equivalent to sidewalk chalk in both texture and nutritional value. Plus, my eating habits at the time were terrible! My intake of chemicals from processed food products was higher than my intake of good old fashioned vitamins and nutrients. Unknowingly, I was prepping my body for disaster…

I assumed my body was super healthy because, on the outside, it did appear that way. However, on the inside I was deteriorating and a lot of that had to do with my lack of Vitamin D. Not the synthetic Vitamin D that is added to products like milk, but the natural kind of Vitamin D that is found in organic food products such as dark leafy greens and wild caught fish. 

So, why is the need for Vitamin D so important?? Well, not only does this vitamin/hormone provide the foundation for the human body’s ability to absorb and assimilate other key hormones, but it also contributes greatly to proper brain function.

I only recently learned that a Vitamin D deficiency alone is enough to cause epileptic seizures. In fact, it is highly recommended by holistic doctors that any person experiencing seizures should get a blood test done to check their bodily levels of Vitamin D. Here is a question for my fellow epileptic warriors out there…Have you ever been told by your neurologist to have your Vitamin D levels checked??? If your answer is “Yes” than Yay for you and I’m super jealous of the amazing neurologist you apparently have! Unfortunately, for the majority of people the most common answer to this question is NO. 

I recently met with my own neurologist and he was genuinely surprised at the possibility of a Vitamin D deficiency being the cause of my epilepsy. He had no knowledge of the connection between Vitamin D and the brain. 

Vitamin D was never even mentioned to me by any of the medical professionals I visited over these past ten years of living with epilepsy. Whether it was at my local hospital or the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. There was always zero mention of “Vitamin D.” This is why I am so eager to share my personal experience with Vitamin D in relation to epilepsy. It is necessary for proper brain function and, if you are struggling with epileptic seizures, it may be just what you need!

Take a look at my own deficiency and my body’s reaction to the holistic Vitamin D supplement I began just three months ago…

In January, I finally found a Holistic doctor who prompted me to get blood work done that specifically measures my levels of Vitamin D. As per usual, the blood work results presented a helpful numerical zone indicating the general “Healthy” level for all human beings. In this case, the ideal level was somewhere between 30 and 100. With 30 being considered as a deficient level and, therefore, concerning. 

I expected my levels to be low, but I never expected what the test results displayed…

I literally did a double take when I checked my result page and found my level to be “1.” Yep, that’s right numero uno. Basically, I have no Vitamin D whatsoever in my body.

My first thought was, “How can a person’s body even function with that amount of Vitamin D?” Or lack thereof I guess I should say. I’m living proof that a body can function without Vitamin D, but it definitely cannot function properly. I should have known something was amiss when my actual neurologist (as opposed to his office staff) contacted me to both announce the arrival of my test results and to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. During my appointment, he immediately began discussing ways to help treat my extreme deficiency…I had passed the level of concern and landed somewhere in the region of emergency. 

According to Healthline, “In the US, current guidelines suggest that consuming 400-800 IU (10-20 mcg) of vitamin D should meet the needs of 97% – 98% of all healthy people.” This would equal out to 5,600 IU of vitamin D per week if doing the 800 IU dose. Apparently I fell into the 2% – 3% that requires a different level…

My neurologist recommended I begin a weekly dose of 50,000 IU of Vitamin D immediately. I was wide-eyed when he announced that dose, I mean fifty thousand…is a dose that large even possible?? His prescription was for an over-the-counter synthetic Vitamin D supplement that I would take once a week. This is always an option, of course, but I have plenty experience with synthetic vitamins to know that this is not the best option. I was also concerned that 50,000 IU of Vitamin D all at once might be a bit of a shock to my body.  

When introducing any new supplements to my daily regimen, I move like a turtle to avoid increasing my seizure activity. If the dose calls for 2 tablets, I begin with 1 tablet for at least a week (sometimes even a month) before adding in the second tablet. Lucky for me, there are other options for Vitamin D supplements besides pharmaceutical drugs that will not only allow me to apply my turtle-like pace, but will also supply my body with vitamin D in its natural form. 

I am currently using “Seeking Health Optimal Vitamin D Drops,” which is an organic liquid supplement. One drop contains 2,000 IU of Vitamin D3. So, I began by slowly introducing one drop, waited for a week and introduced another drop until I reached the recommended dose of 50,000 IU. It took a month to reach the full dose (like I said, I move at a turtle’s pace), but I finally did it. Currently, I am taking 4 drops and 8,000 IU of Vitamin D daily, which brings my weekly total to 56,000 IU of Vitamin D. 

I frequently read warnings about giving your body too much Vitamin D and, therefore, creating other issues. However, due to my extreme deficiency, my body has been loving this extra-large dose! I began taking the Vitamin D on 3/16/19 and it only took ten days before my body began showing evidence of absorption. I had one more gran mal seizure on 3/26/19 before I began seeing a decrease in my seizure activity, both gran mal seizures and partial seizures. 

Here is a brief summary of my seizure activity over the past three months since beginning the Vitamin D3 supplement:

March 2019 (I began Vitamin D on 3/16/19) – 11 Gran Mal Seizures, 13 Partial Seizures 

April 2019 – 0 Gran Mal seizures, 9 Partial Seizures

May 2019 – 0 Gran Mal seizures, 9 Partial Seizures

June 2019 (so far) – 1 Gran Mal seizure, 4 Partial Seizures

I was so excited to share my experience with Vitamin D particularly because of the immense success I have experienced. If I’m being honest, 2017 and 2018 were my most difficult years I have ever experienced as an epileptic. Not only was my seizure activity at an all time high, but I had also reached a point where improvement seemed impossible to obtain. I understand what it feels like to hit rock bottom, so if this is the case for anyone out there Do Not lose hope just yet! Something as simple as a vitamin supplement has made a world of difference for me and I believe it is something worth exploring for every epileptic. 

Yes, I just recently had one gran mal seizure in June, however, prior to that occurrence I went 80 days without a single seizure. Almost three months. My seizure activity hasn’t been this low since the very first year I was diagnosed with Epilepsy. 

To fix any deficiency in the human body takes time. My body went fifteen years depleting itself of Vitamin D (and a number of other vitamins too!), therefore, it is going to take time to build those same levels back to a healthy point. Not everyone requires such extreme Vitamin D supplementation, but for those who are deficient I recommend getting a jump on this sooner rather than later. I certainly wish I had! Oh the things I wish I knew during those first years of diagnosis…

The natural form of Vitamin D is something that every person needs to understand before they can go about supplementing their bodies correctly… 

For starters, let’s debunk those silly stereotypes that have been associated with Vitamin D. It took me years to discover that I am NOT eating healthy when I drink a glass of milk with my breakfast. Why? Well, the added Vitamin D is not the kind of Vitamin D you want in your body because it is a synthetic form of the hormone. The corporations claiming to offer a better quality product are actually doing the exact opposite. Dairy products come from pregnant cows, therefore milk is already swimming with plenty of hormones in its natural state. No extra hormones are required to improve milk’s effect on your long-term health, especially synthetic forms of a vitamin! As is the case with every other hormone, consuming synthetic hormones will actually disrupt your body’s natural ability to produce said hormone. Drinking milk infused with synthetic Vitamin D will only disrupt your body’s ability to function properly and naturally. What I’m trying to say is that even though the jug of milk may scream “Vitamin D” and “Healthy,” you’re actually buying into a societal lie. Milk is not your #1 source for Vitamin D. 

If you are a big fan of milk, but you don’t want the synthetic hormones in your body, try Organic Raw Milk. Unfortunately, you will usually have to purchase this type of milk through a private farm to guarantee that it is truly raw. This may sound like a total inconvenience, but there are actually many private farms just here in the United States who are capable of shipping items cross country. 

My favorite is Miller’s Organic Farm, it is a Private Membership Association therefore you must pay a fee to become a member in their farmshare before you can purchase any products. Once a member, you can order as many products as you wish and they offer a wonderful variety! I actually purchase all of my dairy products through this farm because everything is raw! Nothing is added, it is straight from the cow just as it should be! The farm is located in Pennsylvania and they have no trouble shipping my groceries all the way to California. To get in contact with Miller’s Organic Farm visit the link above or call (717) 556-0672. 

Even though raw dairy products are filled with lots of wonderful nutrients, I have found that they are not your best source for Vitamin D. And No, drinking milk on a daily basis will not provide your body with all of the vitamins it requires. 

Next, we have the sun. The lengthy list of people who have told me that sunshine is my best source for Vitamin D has probably surpassed my own height and continues to grow. The sun is a wonderful source of Vitamin D, however, it is incredibly difficult to absorb large amounts of Vitamin D from sunshine. Direct sunlight must be on the skin in order for any Vitamin D to be absorbed. It cannot penetrate clothing and seep into your skin below the fabric. The areas covered by clothing are blocked from Vitamin D absorption. In addition, cosmetic products such as makeup, lotion, body oils, and sunscreen or tan lotion block your body’s ability to absorb Vitamin D from the sun. So, in order to absorb a large amount of Vitamin D you must sit out in the sun for hours without any clothing on. Does anyone have the time for this? And what if it is Winter? Yikes! Not your best source of Vitamin D either. Although sunshine and fresh air for other purposes are always great ideas! 

The truth is, Vitamin D is sourced in numerous foods, however, a large amount of people aren’t consuming organic food products. Nowadays, if you actually want healthy food you really have to work for it! Those organic prices are no joke! However, I have found the benefits of foods without pesticides and other horrible chemicals greatly outweigh the cost. 

Lastly, I would like to discuss the hormonal side of Vitamin D. The human body naturally interprets every hormone it receives through hormone receptors. You have estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, testosterone receptors, and Vitamin D receptors (just to name a few). The source of these different hormones varies and, unfortunately, a lot of these hormones may be synthetic due to dirty hormones existing in processed food products, skincare, the environment, etc. It is these dirty hormones that we need to avoid as best we can in our personal regimens due to the fact that the human body cannot interpret something that is not meant to be absorbed. Dirty hormones are often stored in our cells because our bodies literally have no idea what to do with them. This may sound harmless, but dirty hormones can be stored in the human body for years and years. If you are constantly exposed to dirty hormones on a daily basis, this storage becomes an impressive collection that will begin disrupting your body’s ability to function properly. This yet another reason why eating organic is an absolute must for your long-term health. 

Dirty sources of Vitamin D exist just the same and need to be avoided in order to successfully supplement this nutrient. All synthetic versions of Vitamin D are dirty sources…that milk I discussed earlier with the cute little cow on the front happens to be the perfect example of such sources. These synthetic sources will be received by your body, however, they will be stored in your cells instead of being disbursed to the proper locations where they can be absorbed like natural Vitamin D. 

Vitamin D is considered a hormone because of the way it is read and disbursed by your hormone receptors. While other vitamins are sent to a variety of locations throughout the human body, Vitamin D is sent to the area with other hormones. Not only is it sent to this location, but it is also the foundational hormone necessary to keep the rest of your hormone levels stable. Your levels of Vitamin D will determine how many of your hormones are produced and assimilated. 

Personally, this has been quite the mind-blowing epiphany since my type of epilepsy (Catamenial Epilepsy) is caused by a hormone imbalance. It truly is no wonder why I am struggling with seizures once you consider my Vitamin D levels in relation to the rest of my hormones. I lacked that foundation of healthy Vitamin D levels, therefore, many of my other hormones failed to absorb correctly, as well. Currently, I am working on building my levels of Vitamin D through natural supplementation with the hope that one day soon the rest of my hormones will become stable and my epileptic seizures will finally seize (pun intended :-)). 

Every human body is different, therefore, each person’s recipe for success will vary. Vitamin D seems to be working wonders for me, but this is one epileptic’s experience. My intention is not to diagnose or treat any medical condition, it is to share with anyone willing to read my blog that a solution may be out there and if I can somehow help another’s journey my goal has been reached! If you have any further questions for me about Vitamin D or anything else, please feel free to email me at katie@seizethedayblog.com. I am more than happy to provide feedback! 

 

Sources:

Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-d-dosage#section2

Miller’s Organic Farm: www.amosmillerorganicfarm.com

Vitamin D Supplement via Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Servings-Physician-Formulated-Seeking-Health/dp/B003800UXG

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website. 

Nail Polish: How to Choose the Healthier Route For YOU

Photo Credit: Seize the Day Blog

Nail polish has always been a very complicated subject for me, personally, because I try very hard to maintain an organic lifestyle across all areas of my life, especially where cosmetics are concerned. However, cosmetic companies do not make this an easy task to accomplish because of the chemicals that frequent all of their products from mascara, to lotion, and especially nail polish. Directing the spotlight onto a product that is notorious for its chemical base causes these “good intentions” of mine to become pretty irrelevant. Terms such as “Healthy” and “nail polish” are more of an oxymoron than they are realistic product. Therefore, the search for me has always felt like an impossible task. 

It seems like no matter what brand I choose, I cannot escape the mile long ingredient label containing names like Ethyl Acetate, Camphor, Citric Acid, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite (what the heck is that?!), Iron Oxides, and Yellow 5 Lake, CI 15850. If you’d like to learn more about ALL of the ingredients typically found in nail polish I highly recommend checking out Amazon. The actual brand website can be very hit and miss when it comes to providing the information for their products. Therefore, exploring a specific brand (like Essie, for example) through a vendor site, such as Amazon, you are more likely to find a complete ingredient label. If you wish to check out the poor ingredient label for Essie nail polish on your own you can do so by clicking here. 

Now I know some of you may be thinking, “Just forget the nail polish, duh!” And this is definitely an option! However, there are some of us (myself included) who just really like the way nail polish makes our toes look…I mean, it’s nice to have pretty toes! It’s fun to paint your toe or finger nails a bright red in the summer, a burgundy in the fall, a soft pink during spring, etc.

About a year ago, I made the sacrifice for the sake of my health (no matter how much I love nail polish, I never knew if the chemicals found in the nail polish product were contributing to my seizure activity). So I went completely nail polish free for over two years. My pedicure went from a gorgeous color change to a simple buff and shine. The truth is, over the course of two years of being nail polish free I saw zero improvement in my seizure activity. This sparked my decision to skip simplicity where my nails are concerned and add nail polish back into my beauty regimen. 

However, just because I was adding the nail polish back to my personal cosmetic inventory in no way meant that I wanted to add all of the chemicals back too. I still try to be as healthy as possible in all areas of my life and if I can do that where nail polish is concerned than I’m definitely extending the extra effort!

So, even though I do not prefer the ingredients found in nail polish; I am extremely grateful for the companies who actually try to improve the quality of their products. If you are similar to me and you also prefer nail polish, but wish to reduce the amount of chemicals your body is exposed to then keep reading to learn how you can still use this product in a healthier way. Here’s a tip…you won’t find these types of products in the cosmetic departments of drug stores. I am grateful for online shopping for a number of reasons and one of these happens to be nail polish! 

If you prefer nail polish in your beauty regimen, your best first step to improving the quality of this particular cosmetic product is considering the quality of the brand before using.   

I stopped making impulsive nail polish purchases based upon my love of the color and actually began considering the quality of the product I was going to be applying to my nails. Choosing healthier products may seem like a total inconvenience for some because these “better quality” products usually translate to “more expensive,” which is never a good thing for anyone’s bank account! However, I can guarantee that your decision to pay a little extra where nail polish is concerned will help to bring you a little peace of mind…it may not be an Organic product, but at least it is healthier for YOU! The better quality brands I recommend below do extend an extra effort to remove the very worst of chemicals from their products and I can’t help but appreciate their generosity.  

So what are these fabulous options for healthier nail polish?? I do happen to have three favorites!! Keep reading to find out what they are and where to buy them!

Photo Credit: Seize the Day Blog

The first is Smith & Cult ($18)…their mascara is fabulous, as well, if you happen to be in the market for a new product…Now, back to business and onto their nail polish!

The biggest draw for me was the product description…Vegan, Gluten-Free, 8-Free Formula: No Dibutyl Phthalate, Toluene, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, Xylene, Ethyl Tosylamide, and Triphenyl Phosphate. 

Despite the remaining chemicals in the product ingredient label, it is very nice to know that these eight ingredients are absent from the nail polish formula. Plus, I can speak from experience when I say that this nail polish is chip-resistant, goes onto the nail just as vibrantly as it appears to be in the bottle, and provides a beautiful, even coating without requiring numerous layers. Smith & Cult nail polish is pretty much all I use these days! Plus they also have Base Coat and Top Coat polishes available on their site that maintain the same ingredient integrity as their other polish products. Vegan, Gluten-Free, and 8-Free! I have provided the Smith & Cult website link above. However, some of their polishes can be found at Neiman Marcus, Blue Mercury, Birchbox, and Amazon as well!

Photo Credit: Seize the Day Blog

Priti NYC is the next healthier nail polish brand I absolutely love and actually discovered by accident! I was searching for another makeup product whose name happened to be similar to Priti NYC’s and BAM! Next thing I know I’m looking at this nail polish brand who’s products are beautiful and healthier! Priti actually takes it one step further than Smith & Cult by selling a product with a 10-Free formula! Besides being free of the 8 afore mentioned chemicals, this nail polish is also vegan, cruelty free, and gluten free. And it is available in over 80 different shades of polish including Base and Top Coat products as well as a convenient “Speedy Dry Top Coat.”

While I highly recommend Priti NYC’s nail polish, I do not recommend their nail polish remover because it is Soy based. While many people have mistaken Soy for a healthy ingredient thanks to the media, this is actually a very dangerous ingredient that should be avoided in every area of life. I have run into this same problem with the majority of Organic companies, as well. It seems that ingredients found in nail polish remover are often derived from a Soy base so that Organic companies can say their product is “healthier” than the average product. 

However, do not be fooled by these companies’ false advertisements. Soy is an ingredient known to worsen inflammation. I can speak from experience when it comes to Soy and my seizure activity. I have never experienced such an increase in my seizure activity except when I am exposed to Soy. The majority of human beings have some amount of inflammation in their bodies and ingredients like Soy will only worsen your inflammation. Additionally, if you have an inflammation induced condition such as arthritis, you will see your health decline with your exposure to such ingredients. It because of my experience with Soy that I decided to go to extremes with my beauty products and actively avoid beauty products claiming to be healthy or organic. 

The ingredient Tocopherol or Vitamin E is frequently found in a variety of beauty products…I’m not sure why, there could be an explanation or this could be another useless “filler” ingredient. Anyway, this ingredient can be derived from a variety of products, one of those being Soy. 

And guess who frequent Soy based tocopherols the most??? Organic cosmetic companies! So when I went completely Organic where my cosmetic products were concerned, it should be no shock that I experienced an increase in my seizure activity. 

To avoid extra seizure activity, I actively searched for such a product that would do the job of removing my nail polish without derailing my daily life. While I had hoped to find a better quality nail polish remover, what I actually discovered was that the average nail polish remover truly is my best option. While sifting through dozens of organic nail polish removers, I realized these products contained ingredients just as comparable to your generic nail polish remover; sometimes worse! Plus, those Organic nail polish removers take 10 times longer to remove the polish, if they remove it at all! In my experience, it felt more like smearing the nail polish around on my nail and skin. I would finish with a bead a sweat on my forehead and an even bigger mess than I started with! Ain’t nobody got time for that! 

Yes, somehow these nail polish removers received an “Organic” status, but do not be fooled by this when it comes to the expected abilities of the product.  It seems that in the midst of adding all of those poor quality ingredients (including soy); these companies removed the ingredients that are key in removing nail polish too. 

So even though my recommended nail polish remover isn’t organic or chemical free, it will do the job successfully and efficiently. AND it is soy free therefore it does not increase my seizure activity; a huge plus for me! My favorite nail polish removers that are tried and true by yours truly include Sally Hansen and Cutex. Not once have these polish removers ever failed to do the job of completely removing the polish from my finger and toe nails, regardless of the polish brand. 

Photo Credit: Seize the Day Blog

Lastly, we have Butter London Nail Polish ($10-$12). I began using this product before I cut nail polish out of my beauty regimen and I am still using it after re-introducing nail polish back in. I LOVE bright colors on my nails so when I discovered Butter, I spent quite the pretty penny due to my indecisiveness. Butter London also offers a wide variety of cuticle treatment polishes such as their “QuickFix Moisturizing Cuticle Balm,” “P.D. Quick Dry Conditioning Drops,” and “Sheer Wisdom Nail Tinted Moisturizer.”

This product has stood the test of time for me and has proven its quality to be more than just another nail polish missing a few extra chemicals in its ingredient label. Butter London has proven to be long lasting and chip resistant product in a variety of brilliant shades.

When it comes to painting your nails, you want the particular shade to shine just as bright on your nails as it does in the bottle. Smith & Cult, Priti NYC, and Butter London will do just that for you! And while these products aren’t completely void of chemicals they are void of Soy and the notorious 8 or 10 chemicals commonly found in nail polish. At this point, I have found that accepting the lesser of two evils is the better decision for those of us using nail polish in our beauty regimens. 

 

Photo Credit: Seize the Day Blog

 

Sources:

Amazon – Cutex: https://www.amazon.com/Cutex-Strengthening-Nail-Polish-Remover/dp/B01BS52AQ2/ref=sr_1_5?crid=L9Q833SP6PAS&keywords=cutex%2Bnail%2Bpolish%2Bremover&qid=1555715890&s=beauty&sprefix=cutex%2Cbeauty%2C198&sr=1-5&th=1

Amazon – Essie Nail Polish: https://www.amazon.com/essie-nail-polish-ginza-light/dp/B00K692TN6/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_194_bs_t_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=KWPRYR640FZ38DT6DXCG

Amazon – Sally Hansen: https://www.amazon.com/Sally-Hansen-Polish-Remover-Strengthening/dp/B000142TU4?th=1

Amazon – Smith & Cult: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=smith+%26+cult+nail+polish&i=beauty&crid=8J49HMZS796T&sprefix=smith+%26+cul%2Cbeauty%2C195&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_11

Birchbox: https://www.birchbox.com/brand/5389

Blue Mercury: https://bluemercury.com/collections/all/brand_smith-cult

Butter London Nail Polish: http://www.butterlondon.com

Camphor: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/camphor

Citric Acid: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/citric_acid

Ethyl Acetate: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/ethyl_acetate

Iron Oxides: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/706410/IRON_OXIDES/

Neiman Marcus: https://www.neimanmarcus.com/c/designers-smith-cult-cat53250900

Priti NYC Nail Polish: https://www.pritinyc.com

Smith & Cult Nail Polish: https://www.smithandcult.com/collections/color

Synthetic Fluorphlogopite:

https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/706409/SYNTHETIC_FLUORPHLOGOPITE/

Tocopherol & Vitamin E: https://www.sciencedaily.com/terms/tocopherol.htm

Yellow 5 Lake, CI 15850: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/701837/D%26C_YELLOW_5_ALUMINUM_LAKE/

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website. 

 

Copyright Info:

All images, excluding those included in the web design, posted on [seizethedayblog.com] are taken by the owner. No images from external sources are used on this blog.

Proper credit should be attributed when republishing any material found on [seizethdayblog.com].

From My Recipe Box to Yours: Avocado Cilantro Dressing (Dairy-Free)

 

Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Sugar-Free, and Vegan!

This simple recipe is clean-eating at its finest! I recommend pairing the dressing with my Southwestern Salad w/ Grilled Chicken, but it tastes great on just about anything! If you’re looking for a quick dressing with refreshing flavor you will absolutely adore this recipe! It is my go-to meal for the evenings when I’m short on time or just too exhausted to attempt one of my more involved recipes. Life is unpredictable already, your time in the kitchen shouldn’t be! This dressing is predictably delicious every time I make it! Plus, I have received the family stamp of approval so there’s no denying this recipe is a winner!

Bon Appétit!

Print
From My Recipe Box to Yours: Avocado Cilantro Dressing (Dairy-Free)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Category: Recipes

Servings: 1 cup

From My Recipe Box to Yours: Avocado Cilantro Dressing (Dairy-Free)

Ingredients

  • 1 Avocado
  • 1 cup Cilantro, rinsed & loosely packed
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice
  • 3/4 cup Water
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Honey, raw is preferred
  • 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt
  • Sprinkle of Black Pepper, extra to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth or fully combined. If you prefer a thicker consistency, I recommend blending for only 10 seconds. This amount of time maintains a thick & creamy texture while also fully integrating all ingredients.
  2. Increase avocados if you desire an even thicker consistency for your dressing. Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge in a sealed container for a maximum of 3 days.
  3. Shake well before using again.
https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2019/04/from-my-recipe-box-to-yours-avocado-cilantro-dressing-dairy-free/

 

Thanks for visiting Seize The Day Blog! I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Avocado Cilantro Dressing! If you have any feedback for me, please feel free to email me (katie@seizethedayblog.com) or comment via Instagram (@seizethedayblog) & Twitter (@seizethedayblog). Thank you!

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website. 

 

From My Recipe Box to Yours: Southwestern Salad w/ Grilled Chicken

The Southwestern Salad with Grilled Chicken has been a recent, but popular addition to my recipe box. I love the variety of healthy ingredients this simple salad offers the consumer. With an arugula base, some might find this salad to be a little too flavorful, but the toppings and the Avocado Cilantro Dressing mesh together perfectly giving you one delicious meal! It makes a wonderful meal option for both Lunch and Dinner. The best part is that you can make this recipe in less than 20 minutes!

You can also remove the chicken for a vegan-friendly meal! I just can’t help but love the simple things in life and this recipe is definitely one of them! If you choose to use the Avocado Cilantro Dressing recipe (as pictured above) found here on Seize the Day Blog you will have a Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Sugar-Free entree for the the whole family!

Bon appétit!

 

Print
From My Recipe Box to Yours: Southwestern Chicken Salad

Category: Recipes

Servings: 4 salads

Ingredients

  • 1 8 oz Chicken Breast
  • 1 5 oz Container of Arugula, rinsed
  • 1 14 oz can Black Beans
  • 1 Avocado
  • 1 cup fresh Cilantro, leaves & stems
  • 1 cup Tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 1 Cucumber, chopped
  • 1 Lime, to top each individual salad
  • Garlic Salt, to taste
  • Tortilla Chips, optional topping

Instructions

  1. Begin by prepping the chicken breast. Cover each side with garlic salt or to your preference and grill until fully cooked.
  2. Pour black beans into sauce pan and cover with lid, set aside on stove. The beans do not take very long to cook so wait until the very end of your meal prep to begin cooking.
  3. Rinse arugula and place in a medium sized glass bowl.
  4. Chop the avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper into bite size pieces. Slice cilantro so that you get both the leaves and the upper stem. Add to bowl of arugula.
  5. Return to black beans and cook on medium high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain beans, set aside in bowl.
  6. Slice cooked chicken into bite size pieces. I recommend adding the beans and chicken very last because of their warmer temperature.
  7. Once all ingredients have been prepped, cooked (if necessary), and added to the bowl of arugula thoroughly mix your salad.
  8. Add a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavor of the salad and drizzle with your dressing of choice.
https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2019/04/from-my-recipe-box-to-yours-southwestern-chicken-salad/

Thank you for visiting Seize the Day Blog! You can provide your feedback on this recipe by emailing me (katie@seizethedayblog) or through Twitter and Instagram (@seizethedayblog). Thank you!

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website. 

Maple Holistics Coconut Oil Product Review

Not all people understand the importance of a good body moisturizer in your own personal beauty/health regimen. It is a frequently understated product for those of you in areas of the world where it is humid or decently moist, which is completely understandable. 

However, as someone living in Southern California where it is predominantly tumbleweeds and cactus, I am frequently met with the same dilemma when it comes to the moisturizer I use on a daily basis….And that is actually finding one (just one) with a clean ingredient label. Too often I come across products that contain Mineral Oil (a known petrol product), Tocopherols (often derived from soy), and numerous other unhealthy ingredients. 

When it comes to the cosmetic products I like to incorporate into my daily regimen, simplicity is idilic. Is this asking for too much from the generic moisturizer brands??? I don’t think so! I know what I want and I believe I shouldn’t have to settle for some chemically derived product. Well, I’m here to tell you that you no longer have to settle for a product whose ingredient label is a mile long. Maple Holistics Coconut Oil is your solution for dry skin!

Now, I know what you’re thinking…Coconut Oil is too greasy, oily, and messy to use as a daily moisturizer. I used to think the same thing! However, if you apply the coconut oil in small amounts, allow time for it to soak into your skin, and follow the application with a light wipe down by washcloth you might actually change your mind.

Many lotions require you to use generous amounts and this tends to carry over into the way we use other cosmetic products, as well. There is no real mystery behind the annoying disappearance of shampoo before conditioner…you’re just using more of your shampoo on a daily basis compared to your conditioner therefore you will run out of one product way before the other. Now let’s tackle an impossible issue like finding a healthy moisturizer!

When it comes to Maple Holistics’ Coconut Oil, a little goes a long way! I began using this product in January 2019 and so far I’m loving it! I was tired of products who’s ingredient labels were practically a foreign language. I want to know what I’m feeding my body, especially when it comes to my skin (a.k.a. the largest organ in the human body!). 

With Maple Holistics’ product, I can look at the ingredient label and understand exactly what is being absorbed through my pores. My body is pretty sensitive, in general, there have been numerous experiences where a cosmetic product has actually increased my seizure activity. So I am always particularly careful when trying new cosmetic products. This product has never contributed to any of my seizure activity. Upon application, I am confident in its ability to add to my skin’s much needed moisture rather than contribute to existing inflammation in my body.  And I am confident this coconut oil will do the same for my readers who also have serious sensitivities. I have come to favor this product because of my own process of trial and error. I gave it a try and it has turned out to be a dream product! 

It is a wonderful after-shower moisturizer and it will promote your long-term skin health. Maple Holistics Coconut Oil is available in three different sizes, including a convenient travel size. You can find their product in 4 oz, 8 oz, or 16 oz sizes. 

I have truly enjoyed using this Coconut Oil product by Maple Holistics and I highly recommend switching to this product for a clean moisturizer that contains only ONE ingredient…Coconut. I like to think our generation is finding its way back to the basics…I mean, people must have had products with real ingredients before all of these chemicals were created! So be sure to check out the Maple Holistics’ website for more details on this Coconut Oil and (while you’re there) you might as well explore their other products, as well!  

If you’re not really into Coconut, be sure to check out Maple Holistics Almond Oil! Plus, Maple Holistics’ products are conveniently available through Amazon too, making your shopping experience that much easier and enjoyable! 

You can check out my review for Maple Holistics’ Almond Oil here!

As always, please be sure to check with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your daily regimen! Everything you read here on Seize the Day Blog are recommendations only. If you have any feedback, please be sure to email me at katie@seizethedayblog.com or comment via Instagram and Twitter.

Thank you!

 

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website. 

 

 

The Key to Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels Part 2 : Gluten-Free

Blood sugar levels have become quite the topic of conversation in my household lately because I have (finally) come to realize just how important they are in my daily well being. Allowing these levels to drop and, therefore, become “Low” can make your body vulnerable to all kinds of consequences such as low energy, irritability, headaches/migraines and, in my case, seizures. I have been struggling with Catamenial Epilepsy for almost 10 years, but I only recently figured out the significant connection between my blood sugar and my brain activity. 

Depending on your daily meal schedule, you will find that certain points throughout the day will seem like a lot of work to get through, more so than the rest of the day. 

Personally, these points of the day usually fall around 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Now this may vary depending on your own breakfast, lunch, and dinner schedule. However, it is incredibly important not only to eat solid meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner everyday, but it is imperative to incorporate solid snacks, as well. I gave a few examples of proper snacks in my previous blood sugar article, however, almost all of the snack ideas I provided are not gluten-free. So what do you do for solid snacks if you can’t snack on things like crackers or other wheat based products??

I’ll actually go one step further and provide you with a few snacks that are gluten-free, dairy free, and sugar free. Every single one of these snacks I eat personally and can guarantee that they will successfully sustain your blood sugar levels AND they will act as an excellent source for a much needed burst of energy. 

Truthfully, life is busy which can make it difficult to actually stop and search for signs of low blood sugar. Plus, the human body is extremely talented at concealing its weaknesses from the outside world, especially you! Sometimes you might look for signs and find nothing…you’re not super hungry, you don’t have a headache, no seizures, and so on…However, this does not mean that your blood sugar levels are exactly where they should be. 

So, in this case I have found it best to toss the optimism, assume the worst and provide yourself with a quick, gluten free snack! Sometimes, one simple snack can actually change my entire day when the determining factor between having a seizure and preventing one is so closely related to my blood sugar levels. 

Thinking it at from this perspective helps me fight those occasional thoughts of procrastination…you know, the ones that tell you, “It is WAY too much work to go to the kitchen right now and fix a healthy snack so just skip it instead.” Here is your moment to shine…don’t give in to the procrastination, carry on strong and confident because you CAN do this! 

I prefer to eat a small something before it’s too late and something I can’t take back happens…like another seizure. Trust me when I say I’ve already had plenty of those to last a lifetime so if there is anything I can do to prevent another one you can guarantee I’m going to do it! So keep on reading for basic snack ideas I incorporate into my own gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free diet on a daily basis…

My first recommendation is no newbie to the snack arena of the world, I have 2 words for you…Nut Butter. And in case you were wondering, No I did not not forget the “Pea” on “Nut Butter.” I would recommend every other kind of nut butter before I ever recommend peanut butter as a snack option here on Seize the Day Blog. The main reason for this is because of the extreme levels of naturally-occurring Phytic Acid. Although phytic acid is commonly found in the majority of nuts, you can purchase pre-soaked nuts which have been through a sort of draining process where this acid is actually removed from the nut. These can be difficult to find in-store so if you’re interested in these pre-soaked nuts I would recommend searching online. 

While draining the acid is possible even in peanuts, it is impossible to determine whether or not the peanut butter companies have used soaked nuts in their products. My guess is No due to the fact that this will be the more expensive route. Time and money will have to be forfeited in order to deliver an acid-free nut base…while the product will be of better quality for the consumer, their wallets will take a hit for their careful production method. At the end of the day, do you think these big peanut companies are going to choose the product that is better for the consumer’s overall health or the product that will mean an increased cash flow???

Now there’s a no brainer….

In addition to Phytic Acid, peanuts also contain yet another negative naturally occurring ingredient that has actually been labeled a human carcinogen. This ingredient is called “aflatoxin, a natural toxin produced by certain strains of the mold Aspergillus flavus and A. Parasiticus that grow on peanuts stored in warm, humid silos. Peanuts aren’t the only affected crops. Aflatoxins have been found in pecans, pistachios and walnuts, as well as milk, grains, soybeans and spices” (Dr. Weil).

Basically, it is a form of mold that grows inside of peanuts. I’ll just give you a minute to let that fact sink in…Every time you eat a peanut or a product containing peanuts you are also eating mold. Does that make you view peanut butter differently? I certainly hope so! 

This is where the importance of soaked nuts becomes an incredibly relevant topic. In order to eat any type of nut without the risk of mold or phytic acid, you want to purchase your nuts pre-soaked or you’ll want to soak them yourselves. I recommend checking out the book “Nourishing Traditions” by Sally Fallon for excellent tips on how to do this procedure in the comfort of your own home.

Not that I would ever recommend a peanut butter product on here anyway because the majority are so full of sugar that it would be more appropriate to label each product a dessert option rather than a health snack option. It is even more terrible when you consider the fact that peanut butter is most often marketed toward children…

C’mon food industry! You’re already pumping children full of synthetic sugar through the most basic processed snack products…Why, do you have to pump them full of mold too??? 

For now, I guess this is just food for thought. Do not fear, my peanut butter rant does have a healthy solution. Plus I think it’s important to be aware of these detrimental ingredients present in even the most common food products.

In my first blood sugar related article, I discussed snack options such as crackers. However, I had not yet begun a strict diet. When I took a look at that article again I realized, Wow! I can’t actually take any of my own advice when I’m on this diet and neither can any other gluten-free person! So in this article, I’d really like to share with you all of the snack ideas I’ve been using to keep my seizure activity as low as possible. 

My first choice right now is what the health industry calls “Nutter” and as I previously discussed above is simply all different types of Nut Butter under a single umbrella name…Trust me, Nutter is much easier to say when, like me, your lifestyle requires you to say it frequently. Nut Butter is just a mouthful! 

Almond Butter, Pistachio Butter, Cashew Butter, Pumpkin Seed Butter, basically every other type of Nut Butter is an excellent choice for your gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free diet regimen.

My favorite types of Nutter happen to be Almond Butter and Pistachio Butter by Wilderness Poets. This brand is Organic, Non-GMO, Soy Free, and affordable! Plus, you can honestly put this stuff on anything, including the crackers (if your diet permits gluten) I recommended in my first post on blood sugar levels and it will taste great! However, for those us trying to keep to a gluten, sugar, and dairy-free diet it is best to stick to Fruit & Veg categories. 

So what I like to do is eat an organic apple or celery sticks and cover both in Nutter. The apple is sweet enough to eat the Nutter alone. However, with the celery sticks I highly recommend adding a dash of sea salt and a drizzle of raw honey to each stick of celery already coated with Nutter. This will add a lot more flavor to what is already an incredibly nutritious snack! 

Just a thin layer of Nutter on each slice of apple or each piece of celery is all that you need. My experience has taught me to add it according to my own taste and allow others to do the same because the amount of preferred Nutter seems to vary from person to person. It is also wise to experiment with Nutter amounts when it comes to each fruit and veggie just in case you might need extra Nutter or extra ingredients for each snack. I tend to add a little bit more Nutter to my celery than I do my apples.

Another great snack option that offers a little more substance in its base ingredients is guacamole and tortilla chips or Avocado Salsa and tortilla chips. Tortilla chips are probably the closest thing I’ve found to crackers that are still gluten-free. You can even pair these with Salsa too if you’re not a huge fan of avocados. I like both, but be careful when snacking because you only want to eat enough to drive your blood sugar levels up a bit during that time of the day when those levels might be prone to sagging a bit lower than they should. You don’t want to spoil one of your meals by stuffing yourself with tortilla chips…I know it can be challenging, but resist the temptation! 

 

Although I do love myself some good salsa and guacamole, the superstar product here is actually the tortilla chips. These are the most convenient on-the-go snack that I have been able to find! Plus, I have thoroughly researched the ingredient label of the Late July Brand’s Tortilla Chips and it is pristine! 

I have previously discussed some post-seizure behavior my body has been prone to since I was first diagnosed with epilepsy ten years ago. One of which includes “shivering” as though I am cold despite the warm temperature around me. This is partially why blood sugar levels have become such an interesting topic for me, personally. My parents figured out that my “shivering” will actually stop quickly and completely if I eat something with some substance such as crackers (when I was consuming gluten) and then tortilla chips (when I began a gluten-free diet). Tortilla Chips are an excellent snack for me post-seizure. I’d also like to think that they prevent seizure activity when I incorporate them at the correct times throughout the day. These tortilla chips are found at most grocery stores so they are easy to find and even easier to bring with you if some on-the-go business arises unexpectedly during your day. 

Finally, if you want to keep things extra simple, I recommend grilled chicken with garlic salt. It is a protein packed snack that can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge for about 4 days when properly stored. I would say this is the gluten-free and dairy-free version of other familiar snacks like cheese. String cheese is always a snack favorite amongst people of all ages. It can offer a little boost to your blood sugar and your protein levels without any extra effort from you. This is definitely a dream snack, however, grilled chicken can offer the same boost with only a teeny bit of effort from you. In the end, you will be getting a better quality form of protein from the chicken so it will definitely be worth it. Plus, it can be eaten hot or cold so it works great if you’re on-the-go! 

My preferred time periods for a snack are around 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM. This is best for me personally because I eat breakfast around 8:00 AM, Lunch around 12:00 PM, and dinner around 5:30 PM. As you will notice from my schedule, I am trying to fit my snack in 2 hours after I have eaten and 1-2 hours before my next meal. You want to figure out that 2 hour window in between your own meals and adjust accordingly. 

The goal here is consuming healthy carbohydrates and healthy fats that act as a sustaining agent for your entire body, but most importantly your blood sugar. Your blood sugar levels are deeply connected with your brain function. I know that my seizure activity increases when my blood sugar drops so incorporating a small snack is actually an excellent contribution to your total-body health and your overall brain function. 

 

 

Sources:

Dr. Weil: https://www.drweil.com/diet-nutrition/food-safety/perplexed-about-peanuts/

 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website.

From My Recipe Box to Yours: Chicken Tortilla Soup

It’s been quite some time since I last had Tortilla Soup. The reason for this is not because I’m extremely picky (or maybe I am, but the flavor has to be just right!), it’s mostly due to the fact that any soup typically calls for an ingredient filled with Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). What is this culprit ingredient? Canned Chicken Broth.

Canned Chicken Broth is one product that I have never been able to find a clean version of, not even at the specialty grocery stores. I used to think canned chicken broth was my only option. So, every time I came across a recipe that called for this product I passed because no recipe is worth more seizure activity, including Tortilla Soup.

As I became more familiar with from-scratch baking, I discovered that homemade chicken broth is actually a thing. And not only is it a thing, but it it is also a super simple recipe that any person can easily create in their own kitchen. I love this recipe for Chicken Broth and it is a true blessing all of the doors this one ingredient has opened for me in the Recipe World. This particular recipe also holds up well in the freezer and still retains its flavor during the thawing process. When frozen, this chicken broth will last up to 3 months.

***Side Note: Homemade chicken broth takes a few hours to make, therefore having this ingredient on hand already will save you a lot of time in the kitchen. Making your chicken broth in big batches and then freezing part of the batch is the way to go if you want to be efficient with your time and gentle on your patience….Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Tortilla Soup obviously isn’t complete without the Chicken Broth, but the Tortilla Chips play a key role, as well. And I’ve got a phenomenal product for you to try…Late July Sea Salt Tortilla Chips. Hands down, they are my absolute favorite tortilla chips and they have a clean ingredient label! It’s a miracle! But seriously, you should totally check out these chips because they go great with this particular recipe and they have never been a seizure trigger for me. 

Once you have your Chicken Broth and your Tortilla Chips, you’re good to proceed with your Tortilla Soup!    

This recipe is a great lunch or dinner option for those of you who are following gluten-free diets. Simply skip the cheese to keep it dairy-free, as well. This is what I do and the soup still tastes excellent! Adding some extra tortilla chips on top makes for a wonderful cheese replacement, you’ll hardly miss it! 

Simply add some lime juice, cilantro and avocado to taste on top for a picture-perfect meal.

Bon Appétit!

This recipe has been adapted from Averie Cooks. 

Print
From My Recipe Box to Yours: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Category: Recipes

Servings: 10 cups

Ingredients

  • 2 T Ghee
  • 1 cup Yellow Onion, peeled & diced small
  • 1 large Jalapeño, diced (include or discard seeds based on preference)
  • 4 Garlic Cloves, peeled & minced
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth
  • 2 cans Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 1 can Black Beans, drained & rinsed (15 oz)
  • 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken
  • 1 T Lime Juice
  • 1 T Chili Powder
  • 2 tsp Cumin
  • 2 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/3 cup Fresh Cilantro Leaves, finely minced
  • Diced Avocado for serving, to taste
  • Shredded Cheese, to taste
  • Sour Cream (optional), to taste

Instructions

  1. Using a large stockpot, add 2 tablespoons Ghee and heat over medium-high heat to warm.
  2. Add the onion and jalapeño, sauté for about 5 minutes or until vegetables begin to soften. Stir occasionally.
  3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  4. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, black beans, cayenne pepper, and bring to a boil. Allow mixture to boil gently for about 5-7 minutes. If at any point the overall liquid level looks low or you prefer your soup to have more broth, add 1-2 cups of water; you'll adjust the salt and seasoning levels at the end.
  5. Add the cilantro and boil for 1 minute.
  6. Taste soup and add salt to taste. Once the flavor has reached your preferred taste serve immediately.
  7. Top with diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips, to taste.
https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2019/02/from-my-recipe-box-to-yours-chicken-tortilla-soup/

If you decide to give this recipe a try please share your feedback via Twitter & Instagram (@seizethedayblog) or Email (katie@seizethedayblog.com). Thank you!

 

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Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website. 

GAPS Diet Part 2: My Personal Experience & Insight for Epileptics

This article has been on my mind and my heart now for a few months. Since writing the very first article (Crohn’s Disease: Chronic or Curable???) where I both recommended the GAPS diet and discussed in depth exactly what this diet entails, a lot has happened to me personally because of the GAPS Diet. I’ve been unable to share this information due to circumstances in my own life lately, but I believe it needs to be relayed for the sake of other Epileptics. 

When I first began thinking up titles, I strongly considered naming it a “retraction” piece for my original article. However, the more I thought about it the more I realized how extreme that action would be for everyone when, in reality, epileptics are the targeted audience here. 

The truth is, this diet is a fantastic option for those struggling with digestive or stomach issues, such as Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, etc. It is also a wonderful method for rapid weight loss and a healthy option too if the diet is executed correctly (i.e. homemade bone broth, organic food products). 

However, there are some requirements in this diet that can cause increased seizure activity. For example, Phase 1 of the GAPS Introductory Diet is Bone Broth only for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Juice, Tea, and Yogurt are the recommended snacks for this phase. 

This is literally as simple as it gets when it comes to carbohydrates. While this phase can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, it took me about 2 weeks to complete based on my symptoms and how much “gut” healing I truly needed. One symptom I had from the very start of GAPS was increased seizure activity. It got pretty rough for my family and I because we literally could not figure out the cause for this tidal wave of seizure activity. Ordinarily, I can pinpoint the activity to something I’ve eaten that may have contained questionable ingredients or my hormone levels at that particular time (check out more about Catamenial Epilepsy and my personal journey with this condition here)…

Like I said before, this is my ordinary mode of operation. But, if I reevaluated my diet at this time I would find nothing but bone broth for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So what the heck was going on??? 

I mean, if I simplified my carbohydrates any more I’d be reduced to consuming nothing but water and pretending that water could ever be considered a good meal substitute. 

Well, as it turns out, my increased seizure activity had everything to do with my diet. Although the bone broth was incredibly healthy for me, the diet itself was too simple. As an epileptic, I face serious consequences if I do not maintain healthy blood sugar levels. I recently discussed in an article titled (The Key to Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels) just how easily my Partial seizure and Grand Mal seizure activity can increase if my blood sugar is allowed to drop throughout the day. 

The simple carbohydrates that are supposed to be embraced in each phase of GAPS were just that…Too simple. Bone Broth in the first phase and stews in the 2nd phase were not enough to keep my blood sugar level up and therefore made my brain even more vulnerable to seizure activity. I needed foods that were more solid such as protein and fat. Unfortunately, my seizure activity became so intense that I literally had to quit the diet and return to my previous meal plan. 

I had made it to the 3rd Phase of the GAPS Introductory Diet when I made this decision. After only 3 months of dieting, I really didn’t want to give it all up so soon. But it was clear that my body needed meals and snacks that were capable of keeping my blood sugar levels up and my brain strong. Simplifying my diet actually complicated my brain health rather than improving it like it was supposed to. 

Now, I am not saying to avoid the GAPS Diet completely. If my body could have handled the simplicity of those carbohydrates, I would have tried my best to carry on to the next Phase of GAPS until I had completed every phase. I also believe that there would have been some much-needed healing to my stomach and brain. 

I guess what this article is meant to be is an insight for those of you who may become vulnerable when your body’s blood sugar level drops. It is information I really wish I had known before beginning the diet because I definitely would have gone about this diet differently. 

To those who can handle simple carbs without adverse reaction, I still highly recommend the GAPS Diet for healing, detox, weight loss, or whatever you may be needing that can be helped by GAPS.  

You can find the links to all GAPS Diet-Related articles from Seize the Day Blog below: 

GAPS Diet Reading List:

https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2016/10/gaps-diet-reading-list-continuation-from-crohns-disease-chronic-or-curable/

Crohn’s Disease: Chronic or Curable???:

https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2016/09/crohns-disease-chronic-or-curable/

The Key to Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels:

https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2019/01/the-key-to-maintaining-healthy-blood-sugar-levels/

 

Looking for a well-balanced meal? Check out my recipe for Chicken Tortilla Soup! It is gluten free and the base is homemade chicken broth…

If you try this recipe, please share your feedback through Twitter & Instagram (@seizethedayblog) or email (katie@seizethedayblog.com).

 

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Medical Disclaimer:

The information posted on Seize the Day Blog, including but not limited to, articles, images, recipes, text and other material are shared for informational purposes only. None of the writings should be looked upon as advice meant to replace that of an actual medical professional. If you suspect you have a serious medical condition you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately. Please be aware that the author of this website is posting information simply to inform NOT to recommend others about health-related topics. Before following any information (i.e. undertaking a new healthcare or diet routine) found here on Seize the Day Blog, you should always consult a medical professional first. Please be sure to never disregard any medicinal advice because of something you have read on this website. 

From My Recipe Box to Yours: Paleo Zucchini Bread (Gluten-Free)

Who knew Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free & Dairy-Free could look so good???

When you’re trying to maintain a diet that is strictly Gluten-free, Dairy-free, and Sugar-free, the mere mention of an acceptable bread recipe sounds ridiculous. I certainly wasn’t convinced that something like this actually existed! Well, I was wrong…

After lots of searching, I eventually came across this recipe by Erin Lives Whole for Paleo Zucchini Bread.

Although Erin’s original recipe is fantastic and I recommend checking it out (links can be found above for both the blog and the recipe), I made a few changes of my own to adjust the ingredients a bit so that the flavor of the cinnamon is accentuated. You can find my personal changes written below along with my baking instructions.

Not only is this recipe is a fantastic snack for those mid-meal munchies, but it also provides the perfect amount of healthy carbohydrates and fats to help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels all day long. Healthy blood sugar levels for me means decreased seizure activity so this recipe has been an excellent find for both my brain and my tummy. It’s a Win-Win no matter which version of the recipe you try! The Seize the Day Blog version can be found below.

Bon Appétit!

Simple & Healthy Ingredients!

Print
Zucchini Bread Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 1 Loaf or 12 muffins

Zucchini Bread Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cup Almond Flour
  • 2 T Coconut Flour
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • 4 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1 cup Walnuts, chopped
  • 4 Eggs
  • 1/4 cup Coconut Oil
  • 1/3 cup Honey
  • 1 tsp Vanilla
  • 1 cup Zucchini, grated
  • Ghee, for greasing the pan

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350F and prepare loaf pan with coconut oil or ghee (a fantastic dairy-free option and my preferred method, it is much less messy than the coconut oil).
  2. Combine all dry ingredients into a small bowl & mix using a fork. Be sure to mix thoroughly so that you do not have any baking soda chunks in your bread batter. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk 4 eggs until combined and smooth.
  4. Add coconut oil, honey, and vanilla to eggs. Whisk until combined.
  5. Add the dry ingredients you set aside earlier to the wet ingredients. Stir until combined.
  6. Squeeze dry your grated zucchini and fold into your batter.
  7. Pour into loaf pan (or cupcake pan, this method is especially fun for those of you with kids). If you want to add an extra crunch to the texture of your bread or muffins, add chopped walnuts to the top of your unbaked batter.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes covered with foil and another 10-15 minutes without foil.
  9. If you can insert a toothpick into the center and it comes out clean, your Zucchini Bread is ready to be taken out.
  10. Let cool completely before serving.
https://www.seizethedayblog.com/2019/02/from-my-recipe-box-to-yours-paleo-zucchini-bread-gluten-free/