DISNEY MICKEY MOUSE PRETZELS RECIPE

SOURCE: https://dinedreamdiscover.com/disney-mickey-mouse-pretzels-recipe/

In honor of Disneyland again raising ticket prices looks like my boys and me will need to enjoy homemade Disney treats instead of buying there! Lucky for us almost all Disneyland favorites recipes can be found online Yay!!! Check out the Mickey pretzel and video on how to make the shape also thanks to http://www.dinedreamdiscover.com:

INGREDIENTS

  • 4 1⁄2 C flour
  • 1 1⁄2 C lukewarm water
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 1⁄4 teaspoon fast-acting dry yeast
  • 4 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
  • Coarse sea salt

BAKING SODA WATER BATH:

  • 10 C water
  • 2⁄3 C baking soda

EGG WASH:

  • 1 egg yolk (large egg)
  • tsp water

INSTRUCTIONS

Add warm water, sugar, and yeast to a large bowl.

Whisk to dissolve the yeast.

Set aside for 5-10 minutes or until foamy.

Add the flour, salt, and melted butter. Using your hands, mix until the dough forms. Knead the pretzel dough using your hands for 8-10 minutes or until the dough is smooth. Grease a large bowl.

Add the pretzel dough to the greased bowl.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.

Put the covered bowl in a warm place for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Prepare the baking sheet with parchment paper.

Put the pretzel dough on a counter. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.

Roll out each of the 8 pieces of dough into 24-inch ropes. 

Begin by making a U-shape with the rope by holding each end of the dough rope.

Twist the rope into the shape of Mickey Mouse by laying part of the rope flat on the surface and horizontally then curve into a circle on the left to make the left ear. 

Make sure to have a few inches of dough poking out from the circle like shown in image 1.

Place the ear over the horizontal rope and curve it around to make a face.Disney Mickey Mouse Pretzels Recipe

Bring the rope back up to the ear level and curve it into a circle.Disney Mickey Mouse Pretzels Recipe

Take the two pieces of dough from the ears and pinch them together.Disney Mickey Mouse Pretzels Recipe

Transfer the formed pretzels to a prepared baking sheet.

BAKING SODA BATH:

Add water and baking soda in a large pot over high heat bringing the mixture to a boil.

Carefully and gently place the pretzels into boiling water for 10 seconds on each side of the pretzel.

PREPPING THE PRETZELS:

Whisk the large egg yolk and water in a medium bowl. Transfer the boiled pretzels to the baking sheet.

Brush the top side of each pretzel with the egg wash mixture. Sprinkle the top of each pretzel with coarse sea salt.

BAKING THE PRETZELS:

Bake at 450 degrees for 12-14 minutes.

The pretzels will be a dark golden brown.

Move the pretzels to a wire rack to cool for at least 5 minutes. Serve.

Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

SOURCE: https://juliasalbum.com/shrimp-orzo-feta/

Shrimp and salad two of my favorites, my boys and me visited Greece over the summer to our delight the food was amazing! They have been missing the food there so of course mom has to find recipes of amazing dishes to make them. This recipe did not disappoint, shrimp, olives, and feta this maybe a weekly meal for them! And check out so many other great recipes in http://www.juliasalbum.com:

Ingredients

Greek shrimp

Greek orzo with feta

Instructions 

Cook shrimp

  1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp together with seasonings: smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Toss to coat.
  2. Heat a large (12-inch), high-sided, skillet until hot on medium heat. Add olive oil – it should run easily but not sizzle or burn.
  3. Add shrimp without overcrowding (you might have to cook in 2 batches).
  4. Cook shrimp, flipping it once or twice, on medium heat, about 3-4 minutes total, until pink in color.
  5. Remove shrimp from the skillet.

Make Greek orzo

  1. To the same, now empty, skillet, add orzo and chicken stock. Bring to a brief boil, reduce to a visible simmer, and cook, covered, for about 10 minutes (according to package instructions). Check the orzo 5 minutes into the cooking, and stir it to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Orzo is cooked when all the water is absorbed and the orzo has a nice texture of cooked pasta. You might have to add more water at the end if the orzo is undercooked or the water evaporates too fast.
  2. Stir in halved cherry tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and sliced green olives. Add Feta cheese (crumbled or diced into small cubes), reserving ¼ cup of cheese for later.
  3. Add lemon juice (or lime), extra virgin olive oil, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  4. Reheat everything on low heat, constantly stirring, to blend all the ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper.

Assembly

  1. Add cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Reheat gently, if needed.
  2. When serving, top with the remaining feta cheese and chopped fresh basil

Garlic Potato Pizza

SOURCE: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/recipes/garlic-potato-pizza

Hello everyone, it’s Friday finally!!!! So here is a pizza Friday recipe from our friends over at Trader Joe’s quick and easy but so delicious check out the recipe below and as always feel free to add any additional topping:

Ingredients

1 package TJ’s Garlic & Herb Pizza Dough

2 heads TJ’s Fresh Garlic

TJ’s Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1/2 TJ’s Yellow Onion, thinly sliced

4 TJ’s Dutch Yellow Potatoes

4 stems TJ’s Fresh Rosemary

Directions

  1. Place a pizza stone or baking sheet on the center rack of oven and preheat to 450°F. Peel away the loose skin of the garlic, leaving the heads intact. Trim 1/4 inch off the top of the garlic heads and place in small squares of aluminum foil. Drizzle exposed garlic cloves with olive oil and wrap tightly with foil. Bake about 30 minutes, remove from oven and set aside.  
  2. While garlic cooks, gently remove dough from bag, halve and place on a lightly floured work surface; let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and onions to a skillet over medium-low heat. Sauté about 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside. Slice potatoes very thinly with a sharp knife or on a mandoline and set aside. Unwrap garlic heads and squeeze roasted cloves into a small bowl. Mash with a fork and set aside.  
  3. Stretch one piece of dough by hand or rolling pin to 8 inches in diameter. Place on a lightly floured pizza peel or cutting board. Brush dough with olive oil cover with half of the roasted garlic. Top with half of the potatoes and onions. Strip rosemary from stems and sprinkle half atop pizza.  
  4. Gently slide pizza onto preheated stone or baking sheet and bake 5-10 minutes, or until crust is blistered and potatoes are golden around the edges. Remove from oven with pizza peel, transfer to a cutting board and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Repeat pizza prep with remaining dough and ingredients. Slice and enjoy!  

WITCH’S POTION MARGARITA

SOURCE: https://www.redwinedragons.com/witchs-potion-margarita-halloween-cocktail/

Happy Friday the 13th we have the perfect cocktail for tonight!!!! Invite a few friends for a spooky movie night and don’t forget it’s also pizza Friday!!!! Enjoy the recipe below from http://www.redwinedragons.com:

INGREDIENTS  

3 Blackberries fresh

3 Blueberries fresh

3 Raspberries fresh

1 tbsp Agave Nectar

2 Fresh Lime wedges

2 oz Silver Tequila Your Favorite Brand

Jones Soda Berry Lemonade Flavor / Or your favorite Sparkling Berry-Flavored Soda

1 tsp each Blue Sugar for rimming

1 tsp Coarse Sea Salt for rimming

1 tsp Cracked Pepper for rimming

INSTRUCTIONS 

  1. Combine colorful sanding sugars, coarse salt, and crushed peppercorn (optional) together in a small bowl and stir together then spread evenly onto a small plate. Now rub your cocktail glass with a lime wedge and dip into the rimming salts to create a colorful rim. Set aside.
  2. In a cocktail shaker, add all the fresh berries and muddle until crushed and juicy. Now drizzle in the agave nectar, splash in the juice from lime wedges and splash in the silver tequila. Fill 3/4 of the way with ice, and shake everything together until combined and chilled through.
  3. Strain this mixture into your rimmed cocktail glass over fresh ice and top off with sparkling blue Berry Lemonade soda. Garnish with skewered berries and dried rosebuds/edible flowers, if desired.

EASY VEGAN CHICKPEA CURRY

Anyone in the mood for curry without going to the restaurant or ordering in! http://www.veganhuggs.com has a quick and easy recipe that you will love and it’s vegan. Check out the recipe below and see what you think:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons grapeseed oil , or preferred oil
4-5 cloves garlic , minced
1 tablespoon ginger , grated or minced (fresh, frozen or paste)
1 tablespoon curry powder
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
14 ounces diced tomatoes , canned
15 ounces chickpeas , canned – rinsed and drained
⅓ cup vegetable broth , low sodium (sub with water)
2-3 teaspoons agave nectar (or any sweetener)
¾ teaspoon salt , more to taste
1 ¼ cup full-fat coconut milk , canned (shake the can before use)
1 lime , juiced

For Serving (Optional)
Naan
Rice (about 3 cups cooked)
Cilantro , chopped (about ⅓ cup)
Lime wedges


Instructions


In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat.

Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Now add the curry powder and red pepper.

Sauté until fragrant, about 30-60 seconds.
Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, water/broth, agave, and salt.

Simmer for 5-8 minutes to reduce the liquid, soften tomatoes and meld flavors. Stir occasionally.
Pour in coconut milk and lightly simmer for 5-8 minutes to reduce and thicken (don’t boil – lower heat if needed).

If it’s too thick, add a few splashes of broth or water to thin it out.
Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice. Taste for seasoning and add more if needed.

Top over rice and serve with naan, lime wedges, and cut cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

Trader Joe Drink Recipes

SOURCE: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/recipes/blueberry-oat-protein-smoothie

Check out a few recipes to try out next time you pick up beverages from Trader Joes:

Blueberry Oat Protein Smoothie

Ingredients

1 cup TJ’s Non-Dairy Oat Beverage with Pea Protein

1 cup TJ’s Frozen Blueberries

1 cup TJ’s Spinach

¼ cup TJ’s Raw Whole Cashews

2 tablespoons TJ’s Organic Flaxseed Meal

1 teaspoon TJ’s Organic Blue Agave Syrup

Directions

Add all ingredients to a blender. Cover and blend on high until thoroughly combined. Pour into two glasses and enjoy!

SOURCE: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/recipes/banana-cold-brew-smoothie

Banana Cold Brew Smoothie

Ingredients

1 bottle TJ’s Banana & Almond Butter Protein Smoothie Beverage

5 to 6 ounces TJ’s Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate (do not dilute)

1 ripe TJ’s Banana, peeled and frozen

Handful TJ’s Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans, crushed

Directions

Add smoothie beverage, cold brew concentrate, and frozen banana to a blender.

  1. Blend on low for 10 seconds, switch speed to high and blend 20 seconds more, until no chunks remain.
  2. Pour into a glass, top with crushed chocolate covered espresso beans (if using) and enjoy.

SOURCE: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/recipes/green-juice-smoothie

Green Juice Smoothie

Ingredients

8 fl. oz. TJ’s Organic Cold Pressed Green Juice Beverage

1 heaping cup TJ’s Frozen Pineapple Tidbits

4 tablespoons TJ’s Oven Toasted Old Fashioned Organic Oats

2 tablespoons TJ’s Organic Flaxseed Meal

Handful ice cubes

Directions

Add all ingredients to a blender. Cover and blend on high until thoroughly combined. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

SOURCE: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/recipes/oat-beverage-matcha-latte

Oat Beverage Matcha Latte

Ingredients

1/4 cup hot water

1 package TJ’s Matcha Green Tea Single-Serve Packages

3/4 cup TJ’s Non-Dairy Oat Beverage

Directions

Empty matcha powder package in hot water and whisk until dissolved.  

Add oat beverage and whisk until combined. Serve and enjoy immediately.  

Chopped Kale Power Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

SOURCE: https://www.shelikesfood.com/chopped-kale-power-salad-lemon-tahini-dressing/

If you are a salad lover like me always looking for great new recipes either for a side salad or full meal salad. Maybe you need a power salad to get thru your workday or maybe that after workout meal? Don’t feel like paying $12 for a salad, well thanks to http://www.shelikesfood.com they have this amazing salad that you can add on to as you like! Check out this recipe and fill up on options next time you head out to your local farmers market:

INGREDIENTS

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (you should get about 5–6 cups)

2 teaspoons + 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided

3/4 teaspoons salt, divided

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 bunch of curly kale, washed, stem removed and chopped (you should get 7–8 cups)

Juice of 1/2 a large lemon

1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed

1 large avocado, pitted and diced

1/3 cup dried cranberries

1/3 cup chopped almonds

1/4 cup chopped red onion

Lemon Tahini Dressing:

1/2 cup tahini

Juice of 1 large lemon

1/4 teaspoon salt

3–6 tablespoons warm water, depending on how thick you want the dressing

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Pre-heat oven to 375F. On a large sheet pan, toss together the diced sweet potato with 2 teaspoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Bake sweet potato until fork tender, 35-40 minutes, flipping once.
  2. Prepare the kale while the sweet potatoes are baking. Add the chopped kale to a large bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, juice of 1/2 a large lemon and a heaping 1/4 teaspoon salt. Use your hands to massage the kale and make sure everything is mixed together, about 1 minute. Set kale aside until sweet potatoes are finished baking.
  3. Make the dressing by adding all ingredients to a bowl and whisking until a creamy dressing is formed. Add the water slowly until desired consistency is reached.
  4. There are two ways you can assemble the salad: You can add all ingredients to the bowl with the kale and mix until combined. Add desired amount of dressing to each individual serving. Or, you can add the kale mixture to separate bowls and evenly top with remaining ingredients.

Recipes for Breastfeeding Moms

SOURCE: https://nadialim.com/breastfeeding-cookies/

Happy Saturday to all those lovely breastfeeding moms out there! You may not have much time in the day for baking but if you do or have a lovely friend that is willing to make for you here are two great recipes to help you with producing milk. During one of my trips, I discovered Nadia’s videos and after found more of her great recipes. Check out http://www.nadialim.com for all the other great recipes:

Breastfeeding Cookies

INGREDIENTS  

2 ¼ cups rolled oats make sure you use fine rolled oats, not the large Jumbo rolled oats

½ cup brown sugar firmly-packed

1-2 tablespoons brewers yeast/savoury yeast flakes

2 tablespoons ground flax seed or LSA

salt good pinch

1 tablespoon fennel seeds lightly toasted and ground*

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup butter melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)

1 free-range egg

INSTRUCTIONS 

  • Preheat oven to 180C/350F. Line a baking tray with baking paper.
  • Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix together until well combined.
  • Roll tablespoons of mixture into balls and place on prepared baking tray, evenly spaced apart. Use a fork to gently flatten cookies. Bake for 12-14 minutes until light golden. Leave cookies to cool. Enjoy a couple with a glass of milk! They will keep for up to a week in an airtight container, or can be frozen.
  • *Place fennel seeds in a fry pan and toast on medium heat for a few minutes until light golden and fragrant. Finely crush/grind in a mortar and pestle.

NOTES

They’re the perfect snack for when you’re up at night breastfeeding (I had a little cake tin of them by my feeding chair!). They’re so tasty my husband Carlos was always eating them though!

Brewers yeast can be found in the health food section of the supermarket, or a health food specialty store. This tasty hot fennel and honey milk drink is another great lactation recipe.

*To make dairy-free: use coconut oil instead of butter if you are avoiding dairy

SOURCE: https://nadialim.com/hot-fennel-and-honey-milk-drink/

Hot Fennel And Honey Milk Drink

INGREDIENTS  

1 teaspoon fennel seeds or alternatively you can use ground fennel

1 cup milk, almond or soy

2-3 teaspoons honey

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS 

  • Place fennel seeds in a fry pan and toast on medium heat for a few minutes until light golden and fragrant. Finely crush/grind in a mortar and pestle (note: you can do a few tablespoons of fennel seeds at a time and keep aside for more milk drinks).
  • Add milk to pan, along with crushed fennel, honey and ground cinnamon and stir until milk is warm/hot (but do not let it boil). Pour into a mug and enjoy with a cookie!

NOTES

A mug of it goes great with one of these lactation cookies! ????

*To make dairy-free, use almond or soy milk

15 Foods That Will Revitalize Kidneys Functionality Promptly

Healthy diet is key for a healthy body lets focus on one organ at a time. Kidneys play an important role in our body let’s keep them working properly. Check out the article from https://medical-news.org/15-foods-that-will-revitalize-kidneys-functionality-promptly:

The kidneys are the much-maligned filtering system of the human body. Without their existence, the entirety of the human organism would crumble. All the excess waste and water are handled by the kidneys. In fact, they are the fundamental exporter of toxic and waste matter. In cooperation with the urinal tract, they form an efficient detoxification system. Your organs need fuel and there is no organ more crucial than the kidneys.

In order to treat them right, you need to have a constant roster of beneficial foods. By having such foods at your disposal, you will ensure the healthy functioning of the given organ. If you, however, choose not to, you may pay the toll in the far future. That’s why we’ve decided to compile a list of the 15 most beneficial kidney-aiding foods. The best thing about them is their wide availability and ease of preparation. Give them a chance and your body will be very thankful!

Credit: Freepik

Cabbage

In order to achieve optimal urinal and kidney health, it’s important to take cabbage into consideration. Even today, it’s not just a healthy addition to your diet. Instead, it has proven to be a worthy natural remedy for many maladies. It doesn’t only treat the stomach and its surroundings, but the entire body. Of course, kidneys are one key component of that body.

Essentially, cabbage lets the kidneys get their repairs and nourishment. Ever since ancient times, a cabbage-filled diet was a must for anyone suffering from kidney problems. To combat any infections and dangerous conditions, cabbage has been inserted in increased doses. It’s the key component in the so-called dialysis diet. You may know it also as the “flushing out” diet. By that, we mean a diet that is tailor-made for detoxification and flushing out toxins. Foods that are in it should be low in potassium. Cabbage fits the bill perfectly.

In order to boost the effectiveness of the detoxification agents, cabbage also has a lot of phytochemicals. These compounds are valuable plant-based free radical opponents. By eradicating free radicals, they ensure perfect kidney health and organ functioning. An abundance of such chemicals provides efficiency, plus better urinal excretion. This is why cabbage is, by all means, a quintessential addition to any healthy-striving diet.

Along with the usual suspects, cabbage has other valuable micronutrients. Vitamins B6 and C also safeguard the kidneys and ensure picture-perfect health in every situation. Moreover, you can also find remnants of vitamin K within the cabbage’s structure. This micronutrient plays an important role in blood clot prevention. This is why cabbage’s benefits transcend just the urinary system.

Credit: Shutterstock.

Berries

Fruit is the ultimate health benefit arsenal. You don’t have to eat it in abundance and it still benefits your organism in unfathomable ways. The best fruit diet is a diet that consists of multiple different types. However, if we had to espouse one type of fruit as an essential one – it would have to be berries. One of the healthiest food on earth exists in numerous varieties, so it’s pretty much impossible not to like them.

One thing that berries can do is benefit your kidney health. They do it like no other food in existence. With a formidable modus operandi, they can be counted on as one of the best natural remedies for this cause. Their secret is high antioxidant content. They can, even in small quantities, benefit the overall quality of your urinary system. Because of those antioxidants, berries are more than capable of driving away free radicals.

Again with those free radicals, right? Well, in order to have an inflammation-free organism it’s necessary to drive them away. Multiple studies have revealed them as key inflammation causes in every organ system. Hence, berries can benefit the urinary one. By eradicating inflammations, every single nephron and inch of your urinary tract will be healthy. Also, those annoying bladder problems can be a thing of the past.

Strawberries, cranberries, raspberries, and blueberries – any type of this is able to improve the overall well-being of your organism. Fiber and folate are also crucial parts of their miraculous influence on the body. Manganese should also be mentioned as a quintessential and paramount component of the berries’ composition. Without it, their influence wouldn’t even be as nearly as strong.

Credit: Freepik

Fish

The nutritive value of some foods somehow isn’t the priority. We, as a society somehow tend to prioritize foods that we are used to. The same goes for meat. All kinds of meat we consume don’t stem from aiming for benefits, but out of habitual reasons. Veal, pork and other varieties are being prioritized over the crown jewel of healthy meats – fish. This often misunderstood food group is coincidentally the most beneficial one.

Amongst other cerebral and somatic benefits, fish contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Their benefit list is a mile long, but the most significant one is often disregarded. This is, of course, the anti-inflammation effect omega-3 has on the entire body. This is crucial for kidney health in every sense. Since they are connected to the urinary tract and urethra, infection and inflammation possibilities are pretty high. Therefore, a safeguard is due to keeping the free radicals and bacteria at bay.

This is why people in the Far East have almost no kidney problems whatsoever. Their whole diet is based on fish. Because of this, you won’t see them having any significant health problems whatsoever. Diabetes patients will also benefit from fish consumption. It lowers their abnormal protein levels in the urine. It also keeps insulin resistance at bay – key factors in improving the way the body filters out waste.

Furthermore, you don’t have to overeat anytime you have a chance to eat fish. Two or three servings per week are the ideal measure for it. What types to focus on? Well, we would like to point out the following – salmon, mackerel, herring, rainbow trout and tuna. Others will do, but these are incredible in their own way.

Credit: Shutterstock

Egg Whites

Kidney diseases often require high amounts of protein to be treated and eradicated. This is why fish is such a great solution when it comes to treating your urinary tract. But, why is protein so great for urinary infections? Well, high-quality protein is easier to get metabolized within the body. Therefore, it produces less waste and puts less strain on the kidney system as a whole. And what’s one of the cheapest and best sources of high-quality protein? Eggs!

In particular, we mean egg whites. They are one of the best and most abundant sources of high-quality protein in the entire natural wood. Throughout history, they have balanced on the fine line between superfood and miraculous natural remedy. Thankfully, we can harness their abilities to treat kidney conditions. Not only can we treat existing ones, but we can also prevent yet dormant ones.

Another key factor in the egg whites’ benefit to kidney health is an insanely low phosphorous content. Phosphorous, along with calcium, is the key bone builder and heart-protective mineral in the entire body. If the kidneys aren’t functioning properly, you might be facing hyperphosphatemia. In this abundance of phosphorous, the kidneys won’t be able to process it and it will cause problems. This is why egg whites are so crucial.

Of course, when battling any condition, physical activity is of the utmost importance. The stronger the body is, the faster it will eradicate any tricky condition. Eggs are an excellent choice to promote a stronger body. Egg whites contain all sorts of essential amino acids and resilient proteins. As you build your strength through dieting and exercise, you will be able to purge any kidney problems whatsoever. It’s a guarantee, more or less.

Credit: Freepik

Olive oil

Olive oil is the crucial part of the so-called Mediterranean Diet. It’s a collective name for the dietary habits of all the nations on the Mediterranean Sea. This includes Greece, Italy, Spain, France and to a lesser extent Spain. All of these people have one thing in common – a long lifespan. That long lifespan is due to a healthy, natural food-filled diet.

What’s another thing these peoples have in common? An almost nonexistent rate of kidney diseases, that’s what. Olive oil has a great say in this situation. It is superabundant with healthy fatty acids. These acids have a proficient anti-inflammatory effect on the entire human body, mainly the kidneys. Such an effect is accomplished by lowering oxidative stress that occurs in the kidneys.

With a lowered amount of oxidative stress in the entire kidney system, your urinary tract will be much more efficient. You won’t get any bladder inflammations or problems whatsoever. Therefore, it’s essential that you add olive oil to some extent into your diet. It’s almost unnoticeable difference but means the world to your kidneys.

By removing free radicals and inflammation-causing enzymes from your organism, you achieve a medical breakthrough of your own. This allows your body to process waste much faster and much more efficiently than usual. The best thing of all is the ease of use of olive oil. You can use it as a dressing or just dip bread in it. Fish are especially delicious when marinated with it. Why not combine two kidney health-beneficial foods at once?

Credit: Freepik

Garlic

Garlic has been known as the enemy of bacteria and infections for a long, long time. No matter how well-known its existing properties are, this beneficial vegetable never ceases to amaze us. One incredible characteristic of garlic is especially interesting. We’re talking about its eradicative methods of removing heavy metals from the body. And which organs need assistance with such removal? The kidneys, of course!

Heavy metals can cause chronic problems within the organism, due to their toxic influence. What’s more, garlic really does remove toxic matter from the blood. It does it in many ways. Firstly, it’s important to mention its anti-clotting properties. This characteristic improves the bloodstream which means more oxygen to the kidneys. More oxygen equals more efficiency in every sense of the word. Stronger kidneys give you a better chance of conquering any problems.

When battling a kidney condition, your body will need all the help it can get. This leads us to the second most important influence garlic has on kidneys. It completely eradicates any signs of inflammation. Bladder and urethra inflammations are two of the nastiest and most annoying conditions in existence. They are sensitive to infections too. That sensitivity won’t be a problem anymore, with garlic’s antiseptic effect.

You don’t have to overdo your garlic consumption. One or two cloves can greatly decrease your bad cholesterol and safeguard your kidneys in every way possible. You can eat the raw on an empty stomach or indulge in a delicious meal with garlic as a makeshift spice. It’s completely up to you. The benefits are there.

Credit: Freepik

Onions

Onions and garlic have been grouped together for a long time. It’s no wonder because they both contain high levels of antioxidants. These valuable compounds have a known role in decreasing inflammation severity and quantity throughout the body. While garlic is widely known for its antiseptic properties, onion has some incredible benefits of its own. It too has an antiseptic influence on the entire organism. Because of this, it is able to express its other influential effects.

All of these abilities have one thing in common – they crack down on kidney diseases, thus improving the overall health of your urinary system. One significant trait of onion is the high content of chromium. This crucial mineral is responsible for metabolizing all the macronutrients the body encounters. A better metabolizing of fats, proteins and fat means much less waste for the kidneys to handle. The less strain the kidneys experience, the more durable they will be in your later years.

Furthermore, onions also contain very low amounts of potassium. This is important because of certain kidney conditions. When they are in a dire state, they can no longer process excess potassium. The levels in the body quickly build up and you will contract hyperkalemia. Some of the symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and numbness throughout the body. This is why onions are an important brick in the foundation of our diet.

Not only are they good for kidneys, but onions can also be a natural remedy for many forms of bladder infections. The antioxidants form a protective wall all over the urethra and guard it against free radicals and bacteria. This delicious vegetable is an indispensable part of every healthy diet, for everyone.

Credit: Freepik

Red Bell Peppers

Kidneys often don’t get the respect they deserve. We oft-times disregard the immense amount of benefits we receive from their functioning around the clock. One of the most prominent things that kidneys take care of is toxic waste removal. Toxicity is a property of many substances found in foods, most often processed ones. This type of matter cannot be deemed as a nutrient and the body reacts to their presence with extreme measures.

Toxic chemicals may also deteriorate your organism slowly if you don’t pay attention or give your kidneys the right assistance. One food that has been recently lauded as a miracle worker for kidneys is the red bell pepper. Several Canadian studies have confirmed that red bell pepper places in the top five foods for toxic waste removal. It’s also low in potassium, which is great for people with more sensitive or deteriorated kidneys.What makes red bell pepper an integral part of a healthy diet are the vast micronutrients within it. Vitamins A, B6 and many others contribute to the immune system and kidney health. On top of all these beneficial contents, red bell pepper has one more trick up its sleeve. That trick is the presence of lycopene – a powerful, cancer-battling antioxidant.

Red bell peppers are not only efficient in battling the deterioration of the kidneys, but they are also important for the well-being of the entire body. When you’re able to choose between multiple foods beneficial for kidneys, you can have one crucial criterium. By judging the best overall health benefits, you will be able to choose the best solution for you. Red bell peppers are an ideal choice you can encounter.

Credit: Freepik

Cauliflower

When battling a kidney-related condition, it’s important to have assistance. This is because kidneys can only remove some toxins from the body, even in their healthiest state possible. That assistance can often come in the form of various healthy foods found all around us. Some choices, in this case, are not only obvious but beneficial beyond our comprehension. One such “assister” is at the helm of the cruciferous vegetable group. We’re talking about cauliflower, of course.

The thing that sets cauliflower apart is the presence of several plant-exclusive components in abundant quantities. A couple of those compounds are glucosinolates, indoles, and thiocyanates. When found in plants, these substances create a natural barrier against bacteria and pests. The human body is able to absorb them and achieve optimal absorption in the process. When ingested, glucosinolate reduces inflammation and relieves the kidneys of their strain.

Cauliflower can also promote a better digestive system. Due to the large amount of fiber within it, cauliflower promotes the improvement of intestinal flora in every way possible. It too has anti-clotting and antioxidant properties. A reduction in blood clots causes blood to circulate faster and blood vessels to gain elasticity. Such an improvement in the vascular part of the body directly affects the kidneys. The nephrons will get more oxygen and will battle toxic waste more valiantly.

There are a few Australian studies that claim that cauliflower prevents tumor cells from multiplying. Substances within it normalize the DNA matrix and destroy any ongoing tumor developments. Cauliflower is much more than a kidney health aid. It provides the body with sufficient materials to better all possible functions, regardless of location. It’s safe to say that cauliflower is an indispensable part of a healthy diet.

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Apples

Berries aren’t the only fruit that can provide kidneys with additional fortitude. Apples are also an excellent candidate. They can work in par with berries, mostly because they have some different and some similar characteristics. The similarities span in a multitude of directions. Like berries, they give the organism the gift of many instances of fiber and antioxidants. An actual number is not known, mostly because there are so many species available.

A study in Belgium was conducted with a number of sexually active women. One group was given three apples to eat every day, while the other group had no apples whatsoever. During the three-month period, women in the first group had no Urinary Canal Infections or UCIs. This goes to show that apples give your urethra greater resistance to external influence.

Not only this, but they also accelerate the kidney’s way of functioning, especially in dire situations. When experiencing kidney stones, you can eat an increased amount of apples daily. This is because they make the stone softer, smaller and easier to pass. Every renowned doctor and clinic recommends them to kidney stone patients.

Aside from the obvious benefits, apples are a good dessert. They contain a healthy amount of fructose for the organism to digest. If you’re looking for an ideal candidate to start improving your kidney health, apples are the best choice. Avoiding them would be a mistake.

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Cinnamon

The kidneys’ great fight against toxic substances cannot be ignored. They need assistance such as cinnamon which is known to be used in regulating blood glucose levels. In that regard, it manages the glucose levels in the blood to prevent blood sugar-related problems. Mind you, high glucose levels in individuals with diabetes can damage the kidneys.

For those with renal problems, adding cinnamon can have many benefits. There is no better way of getting a high source of fiber, manganese, iron, and calcium than from cinnamon. This can be used to treat various ailments including cold, nausea, diarrhea and indigestion.

The diabetes mellitus is a type of diabetes that causes kidney problems. But there is help available. Taking cinnamon will control blood sugar levels and this prevents further degeneration of kidney functions. There are studies that have proven that it can regulate blood glucose levels, increase the amount of insulin and improve hemoglobin.

Having weight problems is no longer an issue since it can control it. This is significant when it comes to controlling blood pressure and blood sugar. These are the main causes of renal failures in individuals.

The prevention properties are not all that it brings to the table, it can prevent and cure bacterial infections in the kidneys and urinary tract. Further, it helps to prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

What sets cinnamon apart is its ability to remove blood clots and improves the circulation of blood. This increases the blood flow to the kidneys as well as to the other body parts. Those affected by fatigue, lack of energy and cold, it can give you relief from such problems.

Cinnamon has been proven that it is an effective natural remedy for kidney problems. However, it should be taken appropriately as it can cause some side effects or some people can react to it.

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Kidney Beans

Kidney beans have a lot of nutritional value that helps the health of the kidneys. Call it a coincidence in its name, it’s shaped like the body organ – the kidney. What makes them unique are their soluble and insoluble fiber properties and low fat. These assists in promoting cardiovascular well-being and keeps your blood pressure low.

The fiber in kidney beans assists to regulate blood sugar levels. They have low amounts of sodium, sugar, and cholesterol. They are a rich source of low-fat protein, magnesium, potassium and amino acids. It has to be noted that a lack of magnesium and potassium in the body can increase the risks of getting kidney stones.

They are not only used in homes as part of the delicious food but as treating kidney stone problems as well. The kidney stone pain can be treated by cooking the pods after removing the beans in purified water. You can then strain and drink after cooling it. It’s as easy as that!

You don’t want to miss it because kidney beans should also be taken by those who don’t have kidney problems. They generally contribute to an overall balanced diet and kidney health. For those who already have kidney problems, the kidney bean is a great source of getting the required nutrients.

However, this needs to be carefully monitored and controlled because kidney beans have phosphorus, potassium, protein, and magnesium. The kidneys will remove any of the dietary excesses from your body. If there are excess proteins, this can promote the loss of kidney tissues.

For those suffering from chronic kidney problems, the presence of potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium can cause the kidneys to overwork which is supposed to be avoided at all costs in such situations. It’s advisable to seek medical advice from your doctor in such situations.

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Java Tea

Java tea has been used as a natural medicine for many years and its benefits have been recognized. It’s not like any other tea! Apart from being taken for kidney problems, it is used to help the liver and gastrointestinal tract problems. It can regulate the blood sugar level, it’s an antioxidant and regulates blood pressure. You just need to get the leaves and flowers to make the tea.

Java tea has beneficial compounds called polyphenols, flavonoids and potassium that help in keeping the body healthy. The terpenic compounds that are found in the leaves have been found to be effective in the treatment of cancer.

It is known to be beneficial in the treatment of various diseases including renal and urinary infections. It has a mild diuretic effect and increases the excretion of urea and uric acid. Therefore, using its leaves will help you get a high concentration of terpenic.

It again lowers high levels of creatinine and uric acid. It increases glomerular filtration and renal blood circulation which allows the removal of toxic and waste products. In that way, it lowers creatinine and uric acid.

The great news is that some of the symptoms of kidney problems can be reduced. It is used to treat those with high blood pressure, kidney infections and breaking down kidney stones. Apart from these, it is a good cure for joint pains, gout, fatigue and rheumatism. Depending on your illness, it might require getting proper medical advice before you start taking the tea. When the function of the kidney is increased then the creatinine and uric acid will be lowered.

What makes this amazing is that it can be taken by both those suffering from kidney problems and those not.

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Ginger

Ginger is in a class of its own. Its healing properties are just unbelievable. It is used in the treatment of different types of diseases that includes renal problems. The underground stem of ginger has been used as a natural medicine for a long time and is recommended for those suffering from motion sickness, nausea and vomiting.

Kidney problems can be terrible and might require extra help. Using alternative treatments such as ginger can have its benefits. Ginger has also good amounts of vitamin C and B3, folic acid, iron, calcium and protein. It is mainly used in treating kidney stones.

Kidney stones are the crystallization that occurs in the kidneys. The blood clots and minerals form hardened lumps that are called kidney stones. When they enter the urethra or bladder, there is friction with the kidney walls and this causes extreme pain. Therefore, taking ginger alleviates this problem by preventing the blood from clotting in the first place. It cleanses the blood from toxic and waste metabolism to ensure that the kidneys are not affected.It activates the antioxidant pathways of those suffering from renal failure. It provides protection from toxin-mediated kidney damage that happens through alcohol-induced damage and chemotherapy.

The list of benefits is endless. It is used to prevent damage of the kidneys and alleviates kidney pain. It helps improve the healing process for those that have undergone kidney stone surgery. Importantly, it cleanses the blood and dissolves kidney stones ensuring that the kidney’s performance is not affected. When you take ginger, it helps the kidneys by preventing the blood clots that may affect the flow of blood to the kidneys.

The pain and tenderness that are caused by kidney stones are immensely reduced. Ginger works as an antioxidant that helps to filter the toxins in the kidneys. This toxins are passed out through urine.

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Cucumber

You might not be alone, cucumber is a fruit but most people take it as a vegetable. It takes a while to realize its nutritional importance. This fruit has a number of benefits that include treating renal problems.

It has large amounts of water which constitute about 90%. Due to this large amount of water, it is a good fruit to eat for hydration and cooling the body. Apart from this, it has a large content of vitamin A and C, molybdenum, potassium, manganese, folate, silica and fiber.

Because cucumber has a rich source of nutrients, it is used in the treatment of kidney stones. It washes the debris and dissolves the small stones from the kidneys. Kidney stones can be painful and uncomfortable. It helps the body remove excess uric acid that can cause those kidney stones. People suffering from kidney stones require drinking lots and lots of water and eating fresh cucumbers helps alleviate this problem.

Cucumber has also potassium, magnesium and fiber that are used for treating both low blood pressure and high blood pressure. Studies have also shown that the sterols that are found in cucumber may help reduce cholesterol levels. This means that the risks of getting heart problems are greatly reduced. The fiber is good in the digestion system as it increases the bulk. With the presence of enough water, it means the risk of getting constipated is significantly reduced.

It also helps to protect the body from inflammation, gum problems and other tissues surrounding the teeth. Cucumbers are low in calories and fat but have large amounts of vitamins and minerals that make them good dietary food to be considered. They can be cooked or taken as a snack and is good dietary food for those with urinary problems or not.

Overnight Oats

SOURCE: https://www.theconsciousplantkitchen.com/coconut-overnight-oats/

Overnight oats are a great fast option for breakfast or a snack in-between meal. There are many different recipes out there but I found a few interesting ones on http://www.theconsciousplantkitchen.com! A yummy twist coconut, banana, and lemon combos, check below all the additional recipes for more combinations:

COCONUT OVERNIGHT OATS

INGREDIENTS

1 cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats

2 tablespoons Chia Seeds

1-2 tablespoons Coconut Sugar – or coconut nectar, adjust regarding sweeteness

3 tablespoon Unsweetened Shredded Coconut

1 cup Coconut Milk – light, canned coconut milk, shake can before opening

½ cup Coconut Yogurt

½ teaspoon Coconut extract

To serve

  • 2 tablespoon Toasted coconut flakes
  • 2 tablespoon Chocolate Chips
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut yogurt

INSTRUCTIONS

  • In a large bowl, whisk oats, chia seed, coconut sugar, and shredded coconut
  • Stir in coconut milk, coconut yogurt, cocontu extract .
  • Seal the bowl with a lid or piece of foil, and refrigerate overnight, or at least 8 hours.

Serve

  • Serve the next day with dark chocolatechips, fresh fruits like pineapple or mango slices, toasted coconut flakes, or any toppings you love.

BANANA BREAD OVERNIGHT OATS

SOURCE: https://www.theconsciousplantkitchen.com/banana-bread-overnight-oats/

INGREDIENTS

1 cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats

2 tablespoons Chia Seeds

¾ cup Unsweetened Almond Milk – or unsweetened vanilla almond milk

¼ cup Yogurt of Choice

¼ cup Chopped Walnuts

2 medium Mashed Bananas – equivalent 1/2 cup mashed bananas

1-2 tablespoon Maple Syrup

½ teaspoon Cinnamon

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Topping

INSTRUCTIONS

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: rolled oats and chia seeds.
  • Stir in almond milk, yogurt of choice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and mashed banana. Stir until evenly distributed.
  • Cover the bowl with a piece of plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Serving

  • Store in airtight glass mason jars for up to 4 days or freeze for later. Thaw in the fridge the day before serving.
  • The next day, serve your banana bread overnight oats with the recommended toppings.

LEMON OVERNIGHT OATS

SOURCE: https://www.theconsciousplantkitchen.com/lemon-overnight-oats/

INGREDIENTS

½ cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats

1 tablespoon Chia Seeds

⅓ cup Unsweetened Coconut Milk – or non-dairy milk you like

2 tablespoons Lemon Juice

¼ cup Yogurt of Choice – we used coconut yogurt

2 teaspoons Lemon Zest

1 tablespoon Sweetener – maple syrup or sugar-free erythritol

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Optional

½ cup Blueberries – fresh or thawed

Top Lemon layer

Toppings – optional

INSTRUCTIONS

  • In a medium airtight container or glass mason jar, add all the ingredients in the order you like: oats, chia seeds, lemon zest, lemon juice, coconut milk, coconut yogurt, vanilla extract, sweetener, and eventually blueberries if you like.
  • Stir well to combine, it should be runny not overly thick.
  • Close the lid of the container, and place it in the fridge overnight, or for at least 3 hours. I recommend stirring after 1 hour to prevent the seeds from sinking to the bottom of the container

Topping – The next day, or before refrigerating

  • Stir all the topping ingredients together. Add 1-2 tablespoons of coconut milk or more yogurt if too thick to your liking. Spread on top of the overnight oats the day before or just before serving.
  • Serve with extra lemon zest, desiccated coconut, blueberries, and crumbled shortbread cookies.

ADDTIONAL OVERNIGHT OATS

Overnight Oats are among the most popular breakfast recipes and it’s easy to understand why.

  • They are easy to put together
  • Overnight Oats taste delicious
  • You can make them vegan without any compromise on taste
  • They bring a lot of macro and micronutrients
  • Kids and grown-ups love them, so it’s the perfect breakfast

It’s very easy to make vegan overnight oats taste like any of your favorite desserts beyond the traditional 3-Ingredient Overnight Oats.

CLASSIC OVERNIGHT OATS

For classic, simple overnight oats recipes, try some of these:

QUIRKY OVERNIGHT OATS

And they are all naturally vegan!

You can even make mock overnight oats if you can’t eat rolled oats by swapping them for chia seeds: