Healthy Granola (No, It’s Not an Oxymoron)

 

1.  Healthy Granola (No, It’s Not an Oxymoron)

One of those perplexing foods that is promoted as both healthy and unhealthy is granola. And for good reason—the majority of granola is disgusting. Although it contains plenty of nuts and beneficial fibre, it is also very high in sugar. A typical store-bought granola can include 13 grammes of carbohydrates in just four tablespoons, according to Dr. Josh Axe, co-founder of Ancient Nutrients. Additionally, the majority of products include sugar in the form of added sweeteners, dried fruits, and chocolate (in various forms).

Granola is a terrific supplement to a healthy diet, but if you're prepared to put in a little work, you can reduce the bad and increase the good. This simple Crunchy Cacao Granola is adaptable, dairy-free, dairy-free, vegan, high in protein, and free of refined sugar.

2.  Crispy Brussels Sprouts

One of mother nature's most underrated treats used to be Brussels sprouts (yes, there is a "s" on the Brussels; they are supposed to have originated in Brussels, Belgium). However, they have recently received some favourable coverage, and they are beginning to appear in healthy restaurants all around the world. They are healthful for almost everyone as a result of their high fibre, vitamin K, and antioxidant content. And, believe it or not, they are actually rather tasty when prepared properly.

Simply wash, cut in half, cover with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425 degrees until browned for the simplest of recipes. However, drizzle on some excellent balsamic glaze to give it a little zip. Try brussels sprouts au gratin if you're in the mood for something a little heavier. You won't be let down.

3.  Switchel (What?)

Not familiar with Switchel? A beverage from the latter part of the 17th century. It was used by agricultural labourers when they were starving after a long day of work and was frequently referred to as Haymaker's Punch or Farmer's Relief. You could argue it was the original sports drink, reviving employees and giving them the energy they needed to get through the rest of the day.

Why is it there? It is essentially a beverage made from unrefined apple cider vinegar, ginger, and citrus fruit. You can prepare it in bulk and consume a small amount of it each day to help decrease cholesterol, blood sugar, and keep your immune system in tip-top shape. Here is a simple recipe for this powerful beverage that can be altered. As an added advantage, you may mix adult beverages with it!

4.  Salad

Yes, it's overused, but that's for a good cause. A nutritious salad is incredibly, incredibly excellent for you. It is easy to prepare and rich in potassium, fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. Add an avocado, and the list of advantages doubles. A lean protein, hard-boiled eggs, nuts, and a few dried fruits added together, and presto! With little effort, you can have a delicious superfood in a bowl.

There are a few restrictions, though. Eating a "healthy" salad is the first important step. You cannot add a dressing that is high in calories and sugar and expect it to be healthy. And including a lot of nuts and dried fruit will accelerate the rate at which you consume calories and carbohydrates.

But keep in mind that a balanced food represents only 80% of the effort required to lead a better lifestyle. You might be wondering where the other 20% is. Exercise! The advantages of keeping up a regular physical activity are infinite. It increases your ability to draw oxygen from the blood, helps you manage your weight, lowers your risk of heart disease, strengthens your muscles and bones, and makes it easier for you to carry out daily activities, all of which contribute to an improvement in your general health. It releases endorphins, which are natural feel-good brain chemicals.

Physical activity is healthy in any form. Pilates, yoga, signing up for the local crossfit gyms, or starting a new sport are all excellent ideas.