naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-17--The Roots of Good Health: Thriving on a Plant-Based Diet

Whether identifying as vegan , vegetarian , pescatarian , flexitarian or other veggie-friendly variant , a growing number of Americans are moving away from meat products and toward plant-rich foods .
Most come to a plant-based diet for personal , planetary or animal welfare reasons ; however , they stay for the flavorful foods they discover along their dietary journey and the health benefits they reap .
While only 3 percent of Americans identified as vegan and 5 percent as vegetarian in a recent Gallup Poll , a 2018 report by restaurant consultants Baum + Whiteman indicates that about 83 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Embarking on a plant-based diet is a lifelong adventure , but it can take time to adjust .
Experts recommend a healthy dose of self-love with the newfound fondness for fruits and veggies .
“ Give yourself some slack and realize that dietary changes do not happen overnight , ” says April Murray , a registered dietician in Costa Mesa , California .
“ Start with familiar plant-based foods you already enjoy , and ease into trying new foods , whether tempeh or lentils.
” Webb ’ s family eats bountifully from their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ produce from local farmers ’ markets , where she can be certain the foods were produced sustainably and humanely .
“ I use meat to flavor soups or accent vegetables , rather than as the star of the show .
I like to focus on real flavors , using lots of garlic , herbs and spices , ” says Webb .
Murray , author of The Everything Pegan Diet Cookbook : 300 Recipes for Starting—and Maintaining—the Pegan Diet , follows that diet , a mash-up of paleo and vegan regimens that focuses on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in healthy fats and vitamins .
The Pegan diet eschews refined sugar and highly processed foods , while allowing meat , poultry , fish and eggs , as well as gluten-free grains , legumes and dairy products in small amounts .
“ This diet can be helpful to different people in so many ways , ” says Murray .
“ For people with diabetes and blood sugar dysregulation , this high-fiber diet can help lower blood sugar and insulin levels .
Heart health will improve , as you ’ ll be eating less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in cholesterol and saturated fat .
Many individuals also find themselves losing unwanted weight as they get filled up so quickly with these whole foods.
” Reed Mangels , author of Your Complete Vegan Pregnancy : Your All-in-One Guide to a Healthy , Holistic , Plant-Based Pregnancy , busts the myth that cow ’ s milk is a must for growing bones .
“ Calcium , vitamin D and protein are the nutrients we usually associate with bone health .
One easy way to get all three is a soy-based or pea protein-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and vitamin D , ” says Mangels , adding that green vegetables like kale , bok choy , collards and broccoli are great sources of calcium .
“ ‘ Eating the rainbow ’ is great way to make sure you ’ re consuming a variety of nutrients , ” offers London-based Ben Pook , who co-authored the cookbook So Vegan in 5 with his partner Roxy Pope .
“ Many vitamins , minerals and antioxidants bring their own distinctive colors to fruits and vegetables , so preparing colorful meals is a simple way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diet as possible.
” Dietary changes can be challenging to navigate initially , particularly when faced with social situations ranging from family gatherings to cohabitation .
Having a good plan going into such situations can help ease the transition , say experts .
“ Never show up to an event hungry .
You will be more likely to make a good decision if you are nourished .
On the way there , remind yourself why you are making the transition to plant-based eating , ” suggests Murray .
“ I call myself a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a dogmatic approach to the way I eat .
If I go to a family dinner and someone has made something special for me , but they used a non-vegan cheese , I will respect my family member ’ s effort and eat some of it .
These situations will pop up from time to time , and the more you can be compassionate with yourself , the better , ” says McMillen-Beelman .
“ If you are living with people who are not joining you in making a dietary shift , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choices .
Make it a shared learning journey rather than a power struggle , ” says Robbins .
For example , he suggests making a vegetarian base and allowing those that want animal products to add them as toppings .
A burrito bar can accommodate all diets by allowing people to add their own fixings to a base of beans and tortillas , whether those be dairy options like cheese and sour cream or vegan-friendly guacamole and salsa .
For families with kids , being flexible and inclusive can help make changes feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never eat processed foods at home , but parties are that time I tell my kids they can eat whatever they want , ” says Webb .
“ Get your children involved , so that they are more engaged in the eating experience .
Let your children pick out recipes or snacks for the week .
Make the food look pretty and it will taste more satisfying , ” adds Murray .
Plant-based chefs have plenty of kitchen hacks for making food prep and planning fun and easy .
Robbins suggests finding go-to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Your prep time goes down a lot as you make the same dish , and the familiarity will help you develop lasting habits around new food patterns , ” he says .
Webb incorporates a healthy protein , fat and vegetable into every meal , even breakfast , but cooks in batches and freezes portions or repurposes leftovers to simplify mealtimes .
“ You ’ ll get burned out if you try to cook something from scratch every meal , ” says Webb .
“ We eat a lot of eggs because we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do baked frittatas I can reheat during the week.
” Advance meal prep can take the pressure off busy times like the weekday breakfast rush , adds Robbins .
One of his favorite breakfasts involves soaking oats and chia seeds overnight , which he tops in the morning with some unsweetened soy or coconut milk , chopped banana , frozen blueberries , and a dash of maple syrup , vanilla and nutmeg .
“ It ’ s full of omega-3 fatty acids , protein , antioxidants and phytonutrients , ” he says .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ their food comfort zones by experimenting with approximate ingredients , like swapping kabocha or honeynut squash for butternut squash .
Robbins also suggests making social connections with others on the same path by cooking them a meal , organizing a meal swap or sharing extras .
“ It ’ s not a diet or a fad ; it ’ s a way of life .
Start where you are and remember it ’ s not about perfection , it ’ s about progress .
Have love , dignity and compassion toward yourself and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says .
Navigating the lexicon of plant-based diets can be tricky , and choosing a diet even trickier .
Here ’ s a brief guide to some of the commonly used terms .
Flexitarians eat a mainly vegetarian diet , but will consume meat on occasion .
Pegans ( a term coined by Dr. Mark Hyman , who follows the diet ) focus on eating vegetables , fruits , nuts , seeds , meat , fish and eggs , while avoiding dairy , grains , legumes , sugar and processed foods .
Pescatarians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , seafood and other forms of animal products such as dairy , but don ’ t eat other forms of meat such as chicken , beef or pork .
Plant-based diets , followed by celebrities like Ben Stiller , consist mostly or entirely of foods derived from plants , including vegetables , grains , nuts , seeds , legumes and fruits , with few or no animal products .
Vegans don ’ t consume any animal products , including eggs , dairy , honey or gelatin .
Famous vegans include Ellen DeGeneres , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Madonna and Venus Williams .
Vegetarians refrain from meat and seafood , but will consume dairy or other animal byproducts such as honey .
Well-known vegetarians include Albert Einstein , Arnold Schwarzenegger , Doris Day , Jane Goodall , Kristen Wiig and Prince .
Tips to Stay on the Plant Track Many new regimens begin with gusto , only to be abandoned because old diets die hard .
Here are some expert tips for eating well over the long haul .
“ Find plant-based options at your favorite restaurants , and be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you , your taste buds will change , ” says April Murray , dietician and author of The Everything Pegan Diet Cookbook .
To keep the momentum and inspiration going , follow plant-based chefs on social media , she adds .
When switching to a plant-based diet , some miss the rich , fatty flavors found in meat , says Ben Pook , co-author of So Vegan in 5 .
“ The trick we found is using ingredients rich in umami , which is a flavor commonly found in meat .
One of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soybeans ) , which has an intense savory taste .
We often add it to stews , pies and even pastas to deliver more depth of flavor .
Soy sauce and porcini mushrooms are also a great substitute.
” “ Sustainable change doesn ’ t happen overnight .
If not sure what to cook , start with one big salad a week .
When you get the hang of that , add in something else , like prepping snacks from scratch .
Small things add up over time , ” says Leah Webb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Dairy-Free Family Cookbook .
“ Seek out loved ones who share your food values and nurture those relationships .
You might be surprised how many people around you are also quietly trying to achieve similar goals , ” says Ocean Robbins , founder of the Food Revolution Network .
“ We put a lot of pressure on ourselves when we first switched to a plant-based diet .
Shopping for vegan food and eating out at restaurants felt very overwhelming , and we found ourselves spending hours checking food labels .
We ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t black or white and encourage others not to worry about making mistakes along the way , ” shares Pook .
If we can ’ t resist temptation on occasion , that ’ s okay too , Murray says .
“ That one unhealthy meal won ’ t undo all the hard work you ’ ve put in .
Get right back on track the next morning .
Positivity is key .
”

by April Thompson
Whether identifying as vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, flexitarian or other veggie-friendly variant, a growing number of Americans are moving away from meat products and toward plant-rich foods. Most come to a plant-based diet for personal, planetary or animal welfare reasons; however, they stay for the flavorful foods they discover along their dietary journey and the health benefits they reap.
The Everything Vegan Meal Prep Cookbook and founder of
Marly McMillen-Beelman was prescribed medications to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. “I knew I didn’t want to be on prescriptions, so I decided to change my diet, beginning by giving up meat, dairy and eggs. I immediately felt much better and my symptoms went away naturally,” says the Kansas City, Missouri, author ofand founder of Chopped Academy , an online resource for food bloggers. “Now I eat an even greater variety of food than I did before I went vegan.”
While only 3 percent of Americans identified as vegan and 5 percent as vegetarian in a recent Gallup Poll, a 2018 report by restaurant consultants Baum + Whiteman indicates that about 83 percent are eating more plant-based foods.
Embarking on a plant-based diet is a lifelong adventure, but it can take time to adjust. Experts recommend a healthy dose of self-love with the newfound fondness for fruits and veggies. “Give yourself some slack and realize that dietary changes do not happen overnight,” says April Murray, a registered dietician in Costa Mesa, California. “Start with familiar plant-based foods you already enjoy, and ease into trying new foods, whether tempeh or lentils.”
A plant-oriented diet also can be flexible; health advocates encourage individuals to find a diet that works for them and their families. Leah Webb , the Asheville, North Carolina, author of Simple and Delicious Recipes for Cooking with Whole Foods on a Restrictive Diet , has adapted her diet over time to accommodate her family’s health needs. Although Webb has always maintained a plant-rich diet, she began incorporating some animal products when her son was born. “He had severe food allergies and asthma, and needed a more diverse diet,” explains Webb, whose daughter also has cystic fibrosis. Cutting out grains was a game-changer in “calming down his gut, where most of immune response lies,” says Webb. “He is now off asthma medication and the number of allergens he suffers from has dropped from seven to two.”
Webb’s family eats bountifully from their backyard garden, complemented by meat and produce from local farmers’ markets, where she can be certain the foods were produced sustainably and humanely. “I use meat to flavor soups or accent vegetables, rather than as the star of the show. I like to focus on real flavors, using lots of garlic, herbs and spices,” says Webb.
Murray, author of The Everything Pegan Diet Cookbook: 300 Recipes for Starting—and Maintaining—the Pegan Diet, follows that diet, a mash-up of paleo and vegan regimens that focuses on whole, fresh and sustainable food high in healthy fats and vitamins. The Pegan diet eschews refined sugar and highly processed foods, while allowing meat, poultry, fish and eggs, as well as gluten-free grains, legumes and dairy products in small amounts.
“This diet can be helpful to different people in so many ways,” says Murray. “For people with diabetes and blood sugar dysregulation, this high-fiber diet can help lower blood sugar and insulin levels. Heart health will improve, as you’ll be eating less animal products, which can be high in cholesterol and saturated fat. Many individuals also find themselves losing unwanted weight as they get filled up so quickly with these whole foods.”
Plant-Based Nutrition Made Easy
Reed Mangels, author of Your Complete Vegan Pregnancy: Your All-in-One Guide to a Healthy, Holistic, Plant-Based Pregnancy, busts the myth that cow’s milk is a must for growing bones. “Calcium, vitamin D and protein are the nutrients we usually associate with bone health. One easy way to get all three is a soy-based or pea protein-based plant milk that is fortified with calcium and vitamin D,” says Mangels, adding that green vegetables like kale, bok choy, collards and broccoli are great sources of calcium.
“‘Eating the rainbow’ is great way to make sure you’re consuming a variety of nutrients,” offers London-based Ben Pook, who co-authored the cookbook So Vegan in 5 with his partner Roxy Pope. “Many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants bring their own distinctive colors to fruits and vegetables, so preparing colorful meals is a simple way of getting as many nutrients into your diet as possible.”
Getting Social
Dietary changes can be challenging to navigate initially, particularly when faced with social situations ranging from family gatherings to cohabitation. Having a good plan going into such situations can help ease the transition, say experts. “Never show up to an event hungry. You will be more likely to make a good decision if you are nourished. On the way there, remind yourself why you are making the transition to plant-based eating,” suggests Murray.
“I call myself a secular vegan because I don’t have a dogmatic approach to the way I eat. If I go to a family dinner and someone has made something special for me, but they used a non-vegan cheese, I will respect my family member’s effort and eat some of it. These situations will pop up from time to time, and the more you can be compassionate with yourself, the better,” says McMillen-Beelman.
“If you are living with people who are not joining you in making a dietary shift, agree to respect each other’s choices. Make it a shared learning journey rather than a power struggle,” says Robbins. For example, he suggests making a vegetarian base and allowing those that want animal products to add them as toppings. A burrito bar can accommodate all diets by allowing people to add their own fixings to a base of beans and tortillas, whether those be dairy options like cheese and sour cream or vegan-friendly guacamole and salsa.
For families with kids, being flexible and inclusive can help make changes feel more positive and sustainable. “We never eat processed foods at home, but parties are that time I tell my kids they can eat whatever they want,” says Webb.
Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock.com
“Get your children involved, so that they are more engaged in the eating experience. Let your children pick out recipes or snacks for the week. Make the food look pretty and it will taste more satisfying,” adds Murray.
Plant Prep Made Easy
Plant-based chefs have plenty of kitchen hacks for making food prep and planning fun and easy. Robbins suggests finding go-to recipes to put on repeat. “Your prep time goes down a lot as you make the same dish, and the familiarity will help you develop lasting habits around new food patterns,” he says.
Webb incorporates a healthy protein, fat and vegetable into every meal, even breakfast, but cooks in batches and freezes portions or repurposes leftovers to simplify mealtimes. “You’ll get burned out if you try to cook something from scratch every meal,” says Webb. “We eat a lot of eggs because we raise chickens, so I’ll do baked frittatas I can reheat during the week.”
Advance meal prep can take the pressure off busy times like the weekday breakfast rush, adds Robbins. One of his favorite breakfasts involves soaking oats and chia seeds overnight, which he tops in the morning with some unsweetened soy or coconut milk, chopped banana, frozen blueberries, and a dash of maple syrup, vanilla and nutmeg. “It’s full of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants and phytonutrients,” he says.
Webb encourages people to get out of their food comfort zones by experimenting with approximate ingredients, like swapping kabocha or honeynut squash for butternut squash.
Robbins also suggests making social connections with others on the same path by cooking them a meal, organizing a meal swap or sharing extras. “It’s not a diet or a fad; it’s a way of life. Start where you are and remember it’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. Have love, dignity and compassion toward yourself and others along the journey,” he says.
April Thompson is a freelance writer based in Washington, D.C.
Plant-Based Primer
Navigating the lexicon of plant-based diets can be tricky, and choosing a diet even trickier. Here’s a brief guide to some of the commonly used terms.
Flexitarians eat a mainly vegetarian diet, but will consume meat on occasion.
Pegans (a term coined by Dr. Mark Hyman, who follows the diet) focus on eating vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, meat, fish and eggs, while avoiding dairy, grains, legumes, sugar and processed foods.
Pescatarians like radio host Howard Stern eat fish, seafood and other forms of animal products such as dairy, but don’t eat other forms of meat such as chicken, beef or pork.
Plant-based diets, followed by celebrities like Ben Stiller, consist mostly or entirely of foods derived from plants, including vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, legumes and fruits, with few or no animal products.
Vegans don’t consume any animal products, including eggs, dairy, honey or gelatin. Famous vegans include Ellen DeGeneres, Betty White, Beyonce, Bill Clinton, Madonna and Venus Williams.
Vegetarians refrain from meat and seafood, but will consume dairy or other animal byproducts such as honey. Well-known vegetarians include Albert Einstein, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Doris Day, Jane Goodall, Kristen Wiig and Prince.
Tips to Stay on the Plant Track
Many new regimens begin with gusto, only to be abandoned because old diets die hard. Here are some expert tips for eating well over the long haul.
“Find plant-based options at your favorite restaurants, and be open to new flavors. I promise you, your taste buds will change,” says April Murray, dietician and author of The Everything Pegan Diet Cookbook. To keep the momentum and inspiration going, follow plant-based chefs on social media, she adds.
When switching to a plant-based diet, some miss the rich, fatty flavors found in meat, says Ben Pook, co-author of So Vegan in 5. “The trick we found is using ingredients rich in umami, which is a flavor commonly found in meat. One of our favorites is miso paste (fermented soybeans), which has an intense savory taste. We often add it to stews, pies and even pastas to deliver more depth of flavor. Soy sauce and porcini mushrooms are also a great substitute.”
“Sustainable change doesn’t happen overnight. If not sure what to cook, start with one big salad a week. When you get the hang of that, add in something else, like prepping snacks from scratch. Small things add up over time,” says Leah Webb, author of The Grain-Free, Sugar-Free, Dairy-Free Family Cookbook.
“Seek out loved ones who share your food values and nurture those relationships. You might be surprised how many people around you are also quietly trying to achieve similar goals,” says Ocean Robbins, founder of the Food Revolution Network.
“We put a lot of pressure on ourselves when we first switched to a plant-based diet. Shopping for vegan food and eating out at restaurants felt very overwhelming, and we found ourselves spending hours checking food labels. We’ve come to realize that veganism isn’t black or white and encourage others not to worry about making mistakes along the way,” shares Pook.
If we can’t resist temptation on occasion, that’s okay too, Murray says. “That one unhealthy meal won’t undo all the hard work you’ve put in. Get right back on track the next morning. Positivity is key.”


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-20--CBD’s New Frontier: Help for Mental Health

When Kaye Herbert ’ s husband brought home a free sample of cannabidiol ( CBD ) oil , she didn ’ t hesitate to give it a try .
Having heard about its calming effects , she gave CBD to her three sons , whose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder made home-schooling difficult due to frequent tantrums and lack of focus .
“ I didn ’ t expect CBD to be miraculous , but I was surprised that my kids ’ frustrations were greatly reduced , ” says the Austin , Texas , mom .
“ We weren ’ t seeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of CBD in tinctures , capsules and lotions has grown exponentially , along with the science to prove its efficacy in remediating physical pain .
Newer , but equally as robust , is the viability of CBD as a remedy for mental health-related issues , experts say , pointing to anxiety , depression and stress as the top three applications .
However , as an unregulated supplement , CBD presents a challenge for consumers in its ubiquity from CBD-infused pillows to gummies , soaps and even pet food .
Discerning purity , dosage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that may grab any bottle off the shelf .
Consumers must become well informed , especially when replacing medications for serious disorders , experts say .
But for anxiety and emotional well-being , CBD is largely heralded as a safe and natural choice by providers well-versed in CBD , such as Peter Bongiorno , past president of the New York Association of Naturopathic Physicians .
“ It ’ s really important for people to know their options and to keep looking for what works for them , ” he says .
CBD , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is appealing because it can raise the level of cannabinoids—feel-good molecules naturally created within the human body .
“ When we can ’ t sleep or are stressed out , cannabinoid levels go way down , ” Bongiorno says .
While prescription drugs overwhelm the body with adverse side effects , CBD can healthfully bring back balance .
But CBD won ’ t trigger an altered state because there is little to no tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC ) , the psychoactive chemical in marijuana that produces a high , he says , adding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily dose of 25 milligrams .
It ’ s important to talk with a physician about drug interactions , Bongiorno says .
For instance , CBD can increase levels of blood-thinning medications , according to a 2017 study published in Epilepsy & Behavior Case Reports .
CBD can possibly treat a wide range of conditions , from fear of public speaking to bipolar and post-traumatic stress disorders , but more research is needed , experts say .
A 2018 clinical trial published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests CBD offers potential in treating psychosis .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ case study of 27 patients published by the Permanente Journal concluded , “ Cannabidiol may hold benefit for anxiety-related disorders.
” The most important step consumers can take to find a safe , quality product is to know where their CBD comes from , experts say .
Lara Miller is an organic farmer in Lafayette , Colorado , who in 2017 dedicated a parcel of her two-acre farm to growing hemp for her business , North Field Farmacy .
“ I added in hemp because it is a dynamic plant that produces fiber @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , all at the same time , ” she says .
Miller ’ s small , women-owned business grows the leafy plants outdoors in organic soil and harvests by hand .
“ We test in the field , post-harvest , during extraction and in the final product , ” she says .
“ We know our product is clean and pure and potent.
” This isn ’ t always the case .
A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that in 84 CBD products sold online by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CBD than the amount listed on the label .
Miller receives weekly calls from those wanting to purchase her plants and start a CBD business .
“ What bothers me the most is that not one person has asked how my hemp is grown , ” she says .
“ It all feels like a big grab ; the integrity isn ’ t there .
”

by Julie Marshall
When Kaye Herbert’s husband brought home a free sample of cannabidiol (CBD) oil, she didn’t hesitate to give it a try. Having heard about its calming effects, she gave CBD to her three sons, whose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder made home-schooling difficult due to frequent tantrums and lack of focus. “I didn’t expect CBD to be miraculous, but I was surprised that my kids’ frustrations were greatly reduced,” says the Austin, Texas, mom. “We weren’t seeing the severity of meltdowns.”
The use of CBD in tinctures, capsules and lotions has grown exponentially, along with the science to prove its efficacy in remediating physical pain. Newer, but equally as robust, is the viability of CBD as a remedy for mental health-related issues, experts say, pointing to anxiety, depression and stress as the top three applications.
However, as an unregulated supplement, CBD presents a challenge for consumers in its ubiquity from CBD-infused pillows to gummies, soaps and even pet food. Discerning purity, dosage and safety are real concerns for those that may grab any bottle off the shelf.
Consumers must become well informed, especially when replacing medications for serious disorders, experts say. But for anxiety and emotional well-being, CBD is largely heralded as a safe and natural choice by providers well-versed in CBD, such as Peter Bongiorno , past president of the New York Association of Naturopathic Physicians . “It’s really important for people to know their options and to keep looking for what works for them,” he says.
The Feel-Good Molecule
CBD, a compound extracted from the hemp plant, is appealing because it can raise the level of cannabinoids—feel-good molecules naturally created within the human body. “When we can’t sleep or are stressed out, cannabinoid levels go way down,” Bongiorno says. While prescription drugs overwhelm the body with adverse side effects, CBD can healthfully bring back balance.
But CBD won’t trigger an altered state because there is little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive chemical in marijuana that produces a high, he says, adding that he starts patients at a low daily dose of 25 milligrams.
It’s important to talk with a physician about drug interactions, Bongiorno says. For instance, CBD can increase levels of blood-thinning medications, according to a 2017 study published in Epilepsy & Behavior Case Reports.
CBD can possibly treat a wide range of conditions, from fear of public speaking to bipolar and post-traumatic stress disorders, but more research is needed, experts say. A 2018 clinical trial published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests CBD offers potential in treating psychosis. More recently, researchers in a 2019 case study of 27 patients published by the Permanente Journal concluded, “Cannabidiol may hold benefit for anxiety-related disorders.”
Seeds of Hope
The most important step consumers can take to find a safe, quality product is to know where their CBD comes from, experts say. Lara Miller is an organic farmer in Lafayette, Colorado, who in 2017 dedicated a parcel of her two-acre farm to growing hemp for her business, North Field Farmacy . “I added in hemp because it is a dynamic plant that produces fiber, seed and medicine for us humans, all at the same time,” she says.
Miller’s small, women-owned business grows the leafy plants outdoors in organic soil and harvests by hand. “We test in the field, post-harvest, during extraction and in the final product,” she says. “We know our product is clean and pure and potent.”
This isn’t always the case. A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that in 84 CBD products sold online by 31 companies, 26 percent contained less CBD than the amount listed on the label.
Miller receives weekly calls from those wanting to purchase her plants and start a CBD business. “What bothers me the most is that not one person has asked how my hemp is grown,” she says. “It all feels like a big grab; the integrity isn’t there.”


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-18--Vegan Fitness: A Healthy Choice for Body and Planet

Tennis champion Venus Williams and New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady are among the athletes that opt for healthy , plant-dominant diets to reach their personal best , a trend that belies some misconceptions about what it means to be vegan .
“ Going vegan implies a larger , lifestyle choice based on personal ethics , but athletes report that they just feel better , ” says Brenda Carey , editor-in-chief of Vegan Health and Fitness Magazine .
“ They ’ re also surprised at how well they put on muscle after making this dietary change.
” A balanced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body needs for muscle mass , stamina and recovery while lowering the risk of heart disease .
A 2018 meta-analysis of 40 studies published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS One concludes that a plant-powered diet fosters a healthier cardio-metabolic profile .
According to Dutch researchers , amping up nutrition from plants may also lower the risk of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes .
Devotees report unexpected perks .
“ Eating a wide variety of foods across the plant kingdom ensures that you reach your fitness goals , ” says Moir , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a breakfast of oats with nut butter and chia seeds .
“ If you want a ‘ superfood ’ component , you can add cacao powder for antioxidants and a great chocolate taste.
” Tullman acknowledges that there are some exceptions to protein requirements—especially for the elderly , individuals with certain chronic diseases and pregnant women—but he notes that daily protein needs are less than we ’ ve been conditioned to believe .
“ If you track your macronutrients through a day , you ’ ll find that you ’ re getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery services as an option and vegan-friendly restaurants in a pinch , but attests to an easy system of meal prep for consistency .
“ Some people like to meal prep one day a week—cooking brown rice , quinoa and chopping veggies .
This way , you can just throw it together when it ’ s time to eat , ” she says .
“ You can also eat more simply and throw a bunch of yummy fruits or veggies into the blender for smoothies or soups.
” For added fortification , some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vitamin B12 , especially for active women in their child-bearing years and older individuals , because B12 absorption is compromised as we age .
Adding a vegan source of vitamin D is also a wise choice if exposure to natural sunlight is not adequate .
For the vegan athlete , workout gear that doesn ’ t contain wool or leather is the way to go .
“ Making conscious choices expands beyond your plate , and a lot of brands have vegan-friendly shoes , ” says Moir .
“ The difference between ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do with ethical motivations and treatment of animals , ” says Tullman .
“ Natural fibers such as cotton and synthetic fabrics like polyester are fine.
” The path of vegan fitness can not only offer health benefits , but also a personal connection to the Earth .
“ It ’ s given me an opportunity to share my journey with others and to allow them to reach their own specific goals , ” says Washington .
“ Mentally , it ’ s given me more depth of thought and spiritually connected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a whole .
”

by Marlaina Donato
Tennis champion Venus Williams and New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady are among the athletes that opt for healthy, plant-dominant diets to reach their personal best, a trend that belies some misconceptions about what it means to be vegan. “Going vegan implies a larger, lifestyle choice based on personal ethics, but athletes report that they just feel better,” says Brenda Carey, editor-in-chief of Vegan Health and Fitness Magazine . “They’re also surprised at how well they put on muscle after making this dietary change.”
A balanced vegan diet can provide everything an active body needs for muscle mass, stamina and recovery while lowering the risk of heart disease. A 2018 meta-analysis of 40 studies published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS One concludes that a plant-powered diet fosters a healthier cardio-metabolic profile. According to Dutch researchers, amping up nutrition from plants may also lower the risk of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Devotees report unexpected perks.
“I recover faster. I also have more natural energy without the need for caffeine and reduced inflammation, as confirmed in blood tests,” says Matt Tullman, managing partner of the community-building website No Meat Athlete and CEO of vegan supplement maker Complement , in Boulder, Colorado.
Nutritional Superpowers
Bolstering the diet with foods like quinoa, chia seeds, nut butters and vegan energy powders, as well as combining foods for a more complete protein profile, is important. For example, pairing whole-grain rice with beans makes a complete protein, says Stefanie Moir , international vegan fitness coach and founder of Vegan Aesthetics , in Glasgow, Scotland.
“Eating a wide variety of foods across the plant kingdom ensures that you reach your fitness goals,” says Moir, who trains six days a week and opts for a breakfast of oats with nut butter and chia seeds. “If you want a ‘superfood’ component, you can add cacao powder for antioxidants and a great chocolate taste.”
Tullman acknowledges that there are some exceptions to protein requirements—especially for the elderly, individuals with certain chronic diseases and pregnant women—but he notes that daily protein needs are less than we’ve been conditioned to believe. “If you track your macronutrients through a day, you’ll find that you’re getting adequate protein.”
Professional bodybuilder Torre Washington , in Tamarac, Florida, keeps it simple. “We’re all unique individuals, so it’s up to each person to test things without fear of lack.” The National Academy of Sports Medicine-certified coach loves antioxidant-rich blueberries, filling apples and potassium-packed bananas, and tends to choose calorically lower, nutritionally dense foods during periods that he’s competing.
Carey suggests vegan meal delivery services as an option and vegan-friendly restaurants in a pinch, but attests to an easy system of meal prep for consistency. “Some people like to meal prep one day a week—cooking brown rice, quinoa and chopping veggies. This way, you can just throw it together when it’s time to eat,” she says. “You can also eat more simply and throw a bunch of yummy fruits or veggies into the blender for smoothies or soups.”
For added fortification, some experts recommend supplementing with vegan sources of vitamin B12, especially for active women in their child-bearing years and older individuals, because B12 absorption is compromised as we age. Adding a vegan source of vitamin D is also a wise choice if exposure to natural sunlight is not adequate.
The Big Picture
For the vegan athlete, workout gear that doesn’t contain wool or leather is the way to go. “Making conscious choices expands beyond your plate, and a lot of brands have vegan-friendly shoes,” says Moir.
“The difference between ‘plant-based’ and ‘vegan’ has to do with ethical motivations and treatment of animals,” says Tullman. “Natural fibers such as cotton and synthetic fabrics like polyester are fine.”
The path of vegan fitness can not only offer health benefits, but also a personal connection to the Earth. “It’s given me an opportunity to share my journey with others and to allow them to reach their own specific goals,” says Washington. “Mentally, it’s given me more depth of thought and spiritually connected me with the ‘YOUniverse’ as a whole.”
Marlaina Donato is the author of several books and a composer.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-18--Meatless Makeover: A Plant-Based Spin on Classic Dishes

When contemplating a shift toward a plant-based diet , some may prematurely mourn the loss of their favorite meaty classics .
Luckily , enterprising vegan chefs have experimented with flavors and textures that will lure almost any palate into loving a plant-based version of their favorite dishes without resorting to processed foods .
The Kansas City chef makes carrot “ dogs ” , for example , by roasting carrots in a savory mix of tamari , agave , miso , paprika and garlic for a cookout-worthy treat .
McMillen-Beelman ’ s cookbook The Everything Vegan Meal Prep Cookbook also offers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sandwiches , like a vegan “ Big Mac ” with quinoa and pinto beans ; a burger made from oats , black beans and pecans ; meatballs from tofu and lentils ; and a chicken salad based on tempeh , a fermented , soy-based , high-protein product with a nutty flavor .
McMillen-Beelman likes using jackfruit for a “ pulled pork ” sandwich or taco , the tropical fruit being packed with vitamin C , protein , calcium , potassium and iron .
Her slow-cooked version leans on whole-food ingredients , including pear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and phytonutrients .
“ I use canned jackfruit because it ’ s much easier to find and cook with than the expensive jumbo whole fruit , ” she says .
Nuts can also work wonders in a vegetarian dish , such as Pook and Pope ’ s walnut meat tacos , which blend toasted walnuts together with spices like cumin , paprika , garlic and chili powder to create a mince-like texture built into a taco with toppings galore .
Many classic dishes can also be adapted by simply leaving out the meat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vegetables shine through ; for example , in a vegan shepherd ’ s pie , go with penne pasta with red sauce or a garlicky pesto with extra nuts , greens and olive oil in lieu of cheese .
Sweet tooth cravings can be satisfied with healthy , plant-based versions of classic desserts , substituting aquafaba ( the starchy liquid left over from canned beans ) instead of frothy egg whites , or olive oil or avocado for butter .
Nut butters can also add a touch of richness to a dish , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love making a peanut coconut milk curry soup with onions , mushrooms and bok choy , with peanut butter , lime juice and soy sauce blended into the coconut milk for a luxurious flavor and texture .
It ’ s great over potatoes , quinoa or rice , ” says Robbins .
“ Vegan food doesn ’ t need to be expensive , boring or complicated , ” Pook says .
“ There really are endless possibilities when it comes to cooking with plants , so don ’ t be afraid to experiment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 4 to 6 servings 10.5 oz extra-firm tofu Sea salt and pepper ½ cup flour Vegetable oil Dry ingredients : 3.5 oz paprika-flavored chips 4 Tbsp flour 2 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp smoked paprika ½ tsp onion powder ½ tsp garlic powder Wet ingredients : ½ cup plant-based milk ½ Tbsp apple cider vinegar 2 Tbsp hot sauce To serve : Tomato ketchup Vegan mayonnaise Crush the paprika crisps between a clean tea towel using a rolling pin until no big pieces remain .
Transfer to a bowl along with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ salt and pepper .
Use a spoon to mix everything together , then set aside .
Combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar in a separate bowl .
Let sit for a minute or two until the milk curdles and turns into a “ buttermilk ” .
Then add the hot sauce and mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined .
Set aside .
Meanwhile , add the flour to a small plate and set aside .
Press the tofu if required .
( Extra-firm tofu contains very little moisture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always necessary . )
Then slice the block in half and break the tofu into bite-sized pieces with hands .
Season the tofu on both sides with salt and pepper ; dip tofu into the flour , followed by the milk mixture , then the crisp mixture .
Repeat until all the tofu pieces have been coated .
Add the vegetable oil to a pan until it ’ s ¼-inch deep .
Tip : Use a wok to reduce the amount of oil needed .
Heat the oil on medium-high .
Drop a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if it starts sizzling as soon as it hits the oil , it ’ s ready .
Carefully add half a dozen or so tofu pieces to the hot oil and fry for about 2 minutes on each side or until the tofu begins to brown and is extra crispy .
It ’ s important to not overcrowd the pan , as it can lower the temperature of the oil .
When the tofu is ready , carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a plate lined with parchment paper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ salt , which will help make it even crispier .
Repeat until all the tofu pieces are cooked .
Serve with a favorite dip , such as one made by combining equal amounts of tomato ketchup and vegan mayo .
Adapted from So Vegan in 5 by Roxy Pope and Ben Pook .
Yields : 4 servings Walnut meat : 14 oz walnuts 1 Tbsp smoked paprika 2 tsp chili powder 1½ Tbsp ground cumin 3 garlic cloves 2 tsp balsamic vinegar 2 tsp maple syrup 2.5 oz sun-dried tomatoes in oil Sea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ canned sweet corn 14 oz canned black beans Sea salt and pepper ½ lime Handful of fresh cilantro Salsa : 9 oz cherry tomatoes 1 green chili 1 red onion 1 lime Handful of fresh cilantro Sea salt and pepper To serve : 2 avocados ½ lime 8-10 small corn tortillas Vegan yogurt Toast the walnuts in a pan over a medium heat for 6-8 minutes or until they begin to smoke .
Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to prevent them burning .
Then peel and dice the garlic and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the smoked paprika , chili powder and ground cumin .
Stir to coat the walnuts in the spices , then cook for 2 minutes .
Meanwhile , drain and rinse the black beans and sweet corn .
Transfer them to a separate pan and stir in a generous pinch of salt and pepper , as well as the juice from the lime .
Heat through for 5 minutes on a medium heat .
Remove the pan from the heat , roughly chop the cilantro and stir it into the beans and sweet corn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and spices to a food processor along with the balsamic vinegar , maple syrup , sun-dried tomatoes ( drain as much oil as possible ) and a pinch of salt .
Process for a minute or two until the walnut mixture turns into a mince-like texture .
Next , prepare the salsa by slicing the cherry tomatoes into quarters and transfer them to a mixing bowl .
Peel and dice the red onion , slice the chili ( leave the seeds in if spicy is preferred ) and roughly chop the cilantro leaves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Squeeze the juice from the lime into the bowl , along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper , then stir to combine .
Meanwhile , heat through the tortillas in a pan over a low-medium heat .
Slice the avocado in half and remove the pit .
Scoop out the flesh and mash it in a bowl along with juice from half a lime .
When you ’ re ready to assemble your tacos , spoon a few tablespoons of the walnut mixture on top of a tortilla , followed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a dollop of mashed avocado .
Top with a drizzle of vegan yogurt .
Repeat for the remaining tacos .
Adapted from So Vegan in 5 by Roxy Pope and Ben Pook .
An absolute showstopper and the perfect dish to make for friends on a Sunday afternoon alongside some tasty , roasted vegetables .
Yields : 4 servings 8 Portobello mushrooms 3 onions 10 sage leaves 4.2 oz walnuts 2 ( 11 oz ) sheets of dairy-free puff pastry Preheat oven to 425° F and line a large baking tray with baking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mushrooms and place five of them in an ovenproof dish .
Drizzle with olive oil and season with sea salt and pepper , then bake for 15 minutes .
Remove the mushrooms from the oven and set aside , leaving the oven switched on for later .
Meanwhile , quarter the remaining mushrooms ; peel and roughly chop the onions and add to a food processor along with sage leaves , walnuts , ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper .
Process to form a smooth paste , then fry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 15 minutes , stirring frequently .
Set aside to cool for 10 minutes .
Roll out one sheet of pastry onto the lined baking tray .
Spread a third of the paste down the middle of the pastry lengthways , spreading it 2 inches wide and leaving the same length clear at each end .
Turn the baked mushrooms upside-down to drain excess juices , then place three of the mushrooms , gills facing up , on top of the paste along the middle of the pastry .
Add the remaining two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the three mushrooms .
Spoon the remaining paste around the mushrooms to cover them on all sides .
Place the second sheet of pastry on top and use your fingers to seal the edges together .
Trim around the Wellington roughly one inch away from the filling , discarding the excess pastry as you go .
Lightly score the Wellington with diagonal lines at 1-inch intervals and brush with olive oil .
Bake in the oven for 50 minutes , until the pastry turns a lovely golden brown .
Remove from the oven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So Vegan in 5 by Roxy Pope and Ben Pook .

by April Thompson
When contemplating a shift toward a plant-based diet, some may prematurely mourn the loss of their favorite meaty classics. Luckily, enterprising vegan chefs have experimented with flavors and textures that will lure almost any palate into loving a plant-based version of their favorite dishes without resorting to processed foods.
“Plant-based versions of classic dishes offer all the nutritional benefits of plants without the cholesterol and saturated fats from animal products,” says chef and author Marly McMillen-Beelman . “You don’t have to abandon all your favorite foods to become vegan—just veganize them.”
The Kansas City chef makes carrot “dogs”, for example, by roasting carrots in a savory mix of tamari, agave, miso, paprika and garlic for a cookout-worthy treat. McMillen-Beelman’s cookbook The Everything Vegan Meal Prep Cookbook also offers many bean- and legume-based versions of classic sandwiches, like a vegan “Big Mac” with quinoa and pinto beans; a burger made from oats, black beans and pecans; meatballs from tofu and lentils; and a chicken salad based on tempeh, a fermented, soy-based, high-protein product with a nutty flavor.
, author of . “To mimic cheese, some combination of nuts and nutritional yeast, cultured nut cheeses or plant-based milks works nicely.”
“A lot of people like using tempeh, tofu or jackfruit for a meaty texture. It needs to be well seasoned, but so does meat,” suggests Ocean Robbins author of The 31-Day Food Revolution: Heal Your Body, Feel Great, & Transform Your World . “To mimic cheese, some combination of nuts and nutritional yeast, cultured nut cheeses or plant-based milks works nicely.”
McMillen-Beelman likes using jackfruit for a “pulled pork” sandwich or taco, the tropical fruit being packed with vitamin C, protein, calcium, potassium and iron. Her slow-cooked version leans on whole-food ingredients, including pear and cranberries, to add natural sweetness and phytonutrients. “I use canned jackfruit because it’s much easier to find and cook with than the expensive jumbo whole fruit,” she says.
Ben Pook, the London co-author with Roxy Pope of So Vegan in 5 , says mushrooms lend substance and umami flavor to vegan dishes such as a mushroom, sage and onion Wellington as a substitute for the classic beef Wellington. “We use portobello mushrooms for their meaty texture, which we surround with a sage and onion stuffing—all wrapped in vegan puff pastry to create a centerpiece worthy of any dinner party,” says Pook, whose cookbook features dozens of plant-based recipes that contain only five ingredients each, such as a broccoli alfredo with cashews, broccolini, tagliatelle pasta, nutritional yeast and garlic.
Nuts can also work wonders in a vegetarian dish, such as Pook and Pope’s walnut meat tacos, which blend toasted walnuts together with spices like cumin, paprika, garlic and chili powder to create a mince-like texture built into a taco with toppings galore.
Many classic dishes can also be adapted by simply leaving out the meat and letting the spices, herbs and vegetables shine through; for example, in a vegan shepherd’s pie, go with penne pasta with red sauce or a garlicky pesto with extra nuts, greens and olive oil in lieu of cheese.
Sweet tooth cravings can be satisfied with healthy, plant-based versions of classic desserts, substituting aquafaba (the starchy liquid left over from canned beans) instead of frothy egg whites, or olive oil or avocado for butter.
Nut butters can also add a touch of richness to a dish, whether sweet or savory. “I love making a peanut coconut milk curry soup with onions, mushrooms and bok choy, with peanut butter, lime juice and soy sauce blended into the coconut milk for a luxurious flavor and texture. It’s great over potatoes, quinoa or rice,” says Robbins.
“Vegan food doesn’t need to be expensive, boring or complicated,” Pook says. “There really are endless possibilities when it comes to cooking with plants, so don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own twist.”
Magical Meatless Meals
Vegan Popcorn ‘Chicken’
photo by Andrew Hayes-Watkins
Yields: 4 to 6 servings
10.5 oz extra-firm tofu
Sea salt and pepper
½ cup flour
Vegetable oil
Dry ingredients:
3.5 oz paprika-flavored chips
4 Tbsp flour
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
Wet ingredients:
½ cup plant-based milk
½ Tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp hot sauce
To serve:
Tomato ketchup
Vegan mayonnaise
Crush the paprika crisps between a clean tea towel using a rolling pin until no big pieces remain. Transfer to a bowl along with the remaining dry ingredients and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spoon to mix everything together, then set aside.
Combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar in a separate bowl. Let sit for a minute or two until the milk curdles and turns into a “buttermilk”. Then add the hot sauce and mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined. Set aside.
Meanwhile, add the flour to a small plate and set aside. Press the tofu if required. (Extra-firm tofu contains very little moisture, so this step isn’t always necessary.) Then slice the block in half and break the tofu into bite-sized pieces with hands.
Season the tofu on both sides with salt and pepper; dip tofu into the flour, followed by the milk mixture, then the crisp mixture. Repeat until all the tofu pieces have been coated.
Add the vegetable oil to a pan until it’s ¼-inch deep. Tip: Use a wok to reduce the amount of oil needed. Heat the oil on medium-high. Drop a tiny amount of the dry mixture; if it starts sizzling as soon as it hits the oil, it’s ready.
Carefully add half a dozen or so tofu pieces to the hot oil and fry for about 2 minutes on each side or until the tofu begins to brown and is extra crispy. It’s important to not overcrowd the pan, as it can lower the temperature of the oil.
When the tofu is ready, carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a plate lined with parchment paper; immediately season it with some extra salt, which will help make it even crispier. Repeat until all the tofu pieces are cooked. Serve with a favorite dip, such as one made by combining equal amounts of tomato ketchup and vegan mayo.
Adapted from So Vegan in 5 by Roxy Pope and Ben Pook.
Walnut Meat Tacos
photo by Andrew Hayes-Watkins
Yields: 4 servings
Walnut meat:
14 oz walnuts
1 Tbsp smoked paprika
2 tsp chili powder
1½ Tbsp ground cumin
3 garlic cloves
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
2 tsp maple syrup
2.5 oz sun-dried tomatoes in oil
Sea salt
Black bean mixture:
9 oz canned sweet corn
14 oz canned black beans
Sea salt and pepper
½ lime
Handful of fresh cilantro
Salsa:
9 oz cherry tomatoes
1 green chili
1 red onion
1 lime
Handful of fresh cilantro
Sea salt and pepper
To serve:
2 avocados
½ lime
8-10 small corn tortillas
Vegan yogurt
Toast the walnuts in a pan over a medium heat for 6-8 minutes or until they begin to smoke. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to prevent them burning. Then peel and dice the garlic and add it to the walnuts along with the smoked paprika, chili powder and ground cumin. Stir to coat the walnuts in the spices, then cook for 2 minutes.
Meanwhile, drain and rinse the black beans and sweet corn. Transfer them to a separate pan and stir in a generous pinch of salt and pepper, as well as the juice from the lime. Heat through for 5 minutes on a medium heat. Remove the pan from the heat, roughly chop the cilantro and stir it into the beans and sweet corn.
Add the cooked walnuts, garlic and spices to a food processor along with the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, sun-dried tomatoes (drain as much oil as possible) and a pinch of salt. Process for a minute or two until the walnut mixture turns into a mince-like texture.
Next, prepare the salsa by slicing the cherry tomatoes into quarters and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Peel and dice the red onion, slice the chili (leave the seeds in if spicy is preferred) and roughly chop the cilantro leaves, adding all to the mixing bowl. Squeeze the juice from the lime into the bowl, along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, then stir to combine. Meanwhile, heat through the tortillas in a pan over a low-medium heat.
Slice the avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh and mash it in a bowl along with juice from half a lime.
When you’re ready to assemble your tacos, spoon a few tablespoons of the walnut mixture on top of a tortilla, followed by the bean mixture, salsa and a dollop of mashed avocado. Top with a drizzle of vegan yogurt. Repeat for the remaining tacos.
Adapted from So Vegan in 5 by Roxy Pope and Ben Pook.
Mushroom, Sage and Onion Wellington
photo by Andrew Hayes-Watkins
An absolute showstopper and the perfect dish to make for friends on a Sunday afternoon alongside some tasty, roasted vegetables.
Yields: 4 servings
8 Portobello mushrooms
3 onions
10 sage leaves
4.2 oz walnuts
2 (11 oz) sheets of dairy-free puff pastry
Preheat oven to 425° F and line a large baking tray with baking paper. Wipe any excess dirt off the mushrooms and place five of them in an ovenproof dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with sea salt and pepper, then bake for 15 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the oven and set aside, leaving the oven switched on for later.
Meanwhile, quarter the remaining mushrooms; peel and roughly chop the onions and add to a food processor along with sage leaves, walnuts, ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Process to form a smooth paste, then fry in a pan over a medium-high heat for 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes.
Roll out one sheet of pastry onto the lined baking tray. Spread a third of the paste down the middle of the pastry lengthways, spreading it 2 inches wide and leaving the same length clear at each end.
Turn the baked mushrooms upside-down to drain excess juices, then place three of the mushrooms, gills facing up, on top of the paste along the middle of the pastry. Add the remaining two mushrooms, gills facing down, between the three mushrooms. Spoon the remaining paste around the mushrooms to cover them on all sides.
Place the second sheet of pastry on top and use your fingers to seal the edges together. Trim around the Wellington roughly one inch away from the filling, discarding the excess pastry as you go. Lightly score the Wellington with diagonal lines at 1-inch intervals and brush with olive oil. Bake in the oven for 50 minutes, until the pastry turns a lovely golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve in slices.
Adapted from So Vegan in 5 by Roxy Pope and Ben Pook.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-20--Hemp Gets Hot: Meet the Hardest Working Plant on the Planet

A crop that was illegal in U.S. soil for more than half a century is now reaching for the sun .
Industrial hemp , the low- or no-THC cousin to marijuana , has created high hopes among farmers , agricultural researchers , manufacturers and consumers .
By 2019 , America had become the world ’ s third-largest producer , behind Canada and China , where it ’ s been cultivated for 8,500 years .
All parts of the hemp plant are useful in multiple ways , and hemp has applications in textiles , construction , bioremediation , technology , nutrition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
The seeds are rich in protein , essential fatty acids and vitamins .
They can be eaten , ground into flour or pressed for oil that is used for cooking or in body care products .
The stems undergo decortication to separate the long outer fibers ( bast ) from the short inner fibers ( hurd ) .
Hemp hurd makes extremely durable hempcrete for construction , absorbent and dust-free animal bedding or pellets for heating stoves .
An exponential rise in the use of hemp is expected because it can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , plastic , cotton and fossil fuels .
The first introductions consumers can expect include hemp paper products , such as plates and toilet paper , and biodegradable hemp bioplastics like cutlery and cups .
Construction materials and other products are expected to quickly follow .
The Institute of Papermaking and Printing , at the Technical University of Lodz , Poland , did a 2015 study comparing making paper from wood to making it from hemp .
Among the findings : hemp takes four months to grow , while trees need 20 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can produce four or more times as much paper as an acre of trees .
Hemp paper doesn ’ t need toxic bleaching and can be recycled twice as many times .
Other studies concur .
Paper without deforestation would be a major benefit , but it ’ s a minor job on hemp ’ s profound résumé .
“ Hemp needs to be a part of every climate change conversation , not only because it sequesters huge amounts of carbon during cultivation , but also because construction products made out of hemp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 100 years , ” says Stark .
Hemp could also help save the depleted soil on U.S. farmland that has been destroyed by tilling and synthetic fertilizers .
“ We have to rebuild the soil by putting carbon back in and increasing organic matter , ” says Valentine .
Hemp does this with a massive root biomass that breaks up compacted soils , improves water infiltration and reduces runoff and erosion .
Fast-growing hemp naturally suppresses weeds , needs no pesticides and isn ’ t picky about soil , water or latitude @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and uses 25 percent of the world ’ s pesticides .
Used in crop rotation , hemp ’ s soil-enhancing qualities can increase profits on subsequent crops .
While cover crops don ’ t usually have return value , hemp provides additional revenue streams .
But the revenue isn ’ t quite there yet , because the supply chain isn ’ t complete .
Seed supply , farm equipment , education , processing facilities and manufacturers are all links that are developing simultaneously .
“ Fiber processing facilities will be available soon .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” says Stark .
The lack of buyers isn ’ t deterring farmers .
Neither are warnings that current harvesting equipment can spark disaster when hemp fiber wraps around rotating parts , heats up and combusts .
Dustin Enge , a third-generation farmer in Prairie du Sac , Wisconsin , started Honey Creek Hemp in 2017 .
He planted six acres of hemp .
“ I think it ’ s a long-term viable commodity for farmers .
Right now , it ’ s the Wild West of agriculture .
Everyone is trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who modified a harvester for hemp .
“ I spent about two hours harvesting and 20 hours torching the fiber off my equipment.
” Even so , he will plant more acres when he knows it will sell .
Behold the sprouting of the hemp industry as an ancient plant takes root in the modern world .

by Julie Peterson
A crop that was illegal in U.S. soil for more than half a century is now reaching for the sun. Industrial hemp, the low- or no-THC cousin to marijuana, has created high hopes among farmers, agricultural researchers, manufacturers and consumers. By 2019, America had become the world’s third-largest producer, behind Canada and China, where it’s been cultivated for 8,500 years.
“It’s the fastest-growing ag industry that we’ve ever seen,” says Tara Valentine, hemp specialist at the Rodale Institute , in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Since hemp’s inclusion in the 2018 Farm Bill, Rodale’s hemp web page hits have grown 10-fold.
Better Products
All parts of the hemp plant are useful in multiple ways, and hemp has applications in textiles, construction, bioremediation, technology, nutrition and health, including cannabidiol (CBD). The seeds are rich in protein, essential fatty acids and vitamins. They can be eaten, ground into flour or pressed for oil that is used for cooking or in body care products.
The stems undergo decortication to separate the long outer fibers (bast) from the short inner fibers (hurd). Hemp hurd makes extremely durable hempcrete for construction, absorbent and dust-free animal bedding or pellets for heating stoves. An exponential rise in the use of hemp is expected because it can replace products made from paper, wood, plastic, cotton and fossil fuels.
“Hemp fiber is going to dominate the market once we get to the full manufacturing potential,” says Erica Stark, executive director of the National Hemp Association , in Washington, D.C.
The first introductions consumers can expect include hemp paper products, such as plates and toilet paper, and biodegradable hemp bioplastics like cutlery and cups. Construction materials and other products are expected to quickly follow.
Environmentally Friendly
The Institute of Papermaking and Printing, at the Technical University of Lodz, Poland, did a 2015 study comparing making paper from wood to making it from hemp. Among the findings: hemp takes four months to grow, while trees need 20 to 80 years. An acre of hemp can produce four or more times as much paper as an acre of trees. Hemp paper doesn’t need toxic bleaching and can be recycled twice as many times. Other studies concur.
Paper without deforestation would be a major benefit, but it’s a minor job on hemp’s profound résumé. “Hemp needs to be a part of every climate change conversation, not only because it sequesters huge amounts of carbon during cultivation, but also because construction products made out of hemp will continue to sequester carbon for up to 100 years,” says Stark.
Hemp could also help save the depleted soil on U.S. farmland that has been destroyed by tilling and synthetic fertilizers. “We have to rebuild the soil by putting carbon back in and increasing organic matter,” says Valentine. Hemp does this with a massive root biomass that breaks up compacted soils, improves water infiltration and reduces runoff and erosion.
Fast-growing hemp naturally suppresses weeds, needs no pesticides and isn’t picky about soil, water or latitude. By comparison, cotton is water-intensive and uses 25 percent of the
world’s pesticides.
Income for Farmers
Used in crop rotation, hemp’s soil-enhancing qualities can increase profits on subsequent crops. While cover crops don’t usually have return value, hemp provides additional revenue streams. But the revenue isn’t quite there yet, because the supply chain isn’t complete. Seed supply, farm equipment, education, processing facilities and manufacturers are all links that are developing simultaneously. “Fiber processing facilities will be available soon. Manufacturers are anxious to start incorporating hemp,” says Stark.
The lack of buyers isn’t deterring farmers. Neither are warnings that current harvesting equipment can spark disaster when hemp fiber wraps around rotating parts, heats up and combusts.
Dustin Enge, a third-generation farmer in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, started Honey Creek Hemp in 2017. He planted six acres of hemp. “I think it’s a long-term viable commodity for farmers. Right now, it’s the Wild West of agriculture. Everyone is trying different things,” says Enge, who modified a harvester for hemp. “I spent about two hours harvesting and 20 hours torching the fiber off my equipment.” Even so, he will plant more acres when he knows it will sell.
Behold the sprouting of the hemp industry as an ancient plant takes root in the modern world.
Julie Peterson writes from rural Wisconsin and can be reached at [email protected].


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-20--Kibble Quandary: A Fresh Look at Pet Food

Eating healthy is a family affair , and that includes the family pet .
However , what works for humans may be less than optimal for Fluffy or Fido , as each requires a species-specific , nutritionally balanced regimen .
Most pet parents opt for commercial dog or cat food that comes in a bag or a can , but many are beginning to consider more natural options .
“ Kibble is often the most economical way to feed your pet .
But its processed state makes it the least optimal , ” says Angie Krause , DVM , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These can include meat from dead , dying , diseased or disabled animals , and even rendered dogs and cats from animal shelters , says May .
“ We are seeing more cancer , neurologic conditions and kidney disease , and there is evidence that the increase in these diseases may be due to harmful ingredients in commercial , meat-based foods.
” Owners that switch from commercial foods report their animals display thicker coats , brighter eyes and greater energy .
However , dogs and cats require specific ranges of vitamins , minerals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s important to ensure that nutritional needs are met and a healthy balance is maintained .
Pet food recalls have prompted some families to start cooking for their charges , but it ’ s not as simple as sharing the family dinner .
“ There are online calculators that can help you create and balance recipes for dogs and cats .
Balancing a diet can be tedious and often requires added supplements , ” says Krause .
Seeing a four-legged friend thrive was worth the extra time and cost for Yvonnda Stamp-Agent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Emma , a schnauzer mix , suffered from itchy skin , anal gland leakage , kidney crystals , vomiting and other problems .
“ We switched to home-cooked wild salmon and flounder protein with fresh organic vegetables and fruits , along with vitamin and mineral supplementation.
” Emma recovered and is now an energetic 5-year-old .
Stephanie Krause , in Keego Harbor , Michigan , says her three dogs are more relaxed , probably from the time and effort needed to eat large bones—and they haven ’ t needed a teeth cleaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raw bones , there was plaque laying all over the floor.
” The BARF diet can be homemade , although most choose prepared frozen or freeze-dried products to ensure nutrient balance or to avoid handling raw meats .
Angie Krause says the diet is controversial , largely due to human health risks from pathogenic bacteria .
For ethical and environmental reasons , homemade or pre-made , plant-based diets for companion animals are becoming more popular .
“ If the 163 million dogs and cats in the U.S. were their own country , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the planet , ” says May .
Cats can not survive without meat , which provides the high protein , amino acids and other nutrients their bodies require .
However , a 2018 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that plant-based diets , possibly supplemented with vitamins B12 and D and some amino acids , can meet nutrition requirements of dogs .
“ Dogs are omnivores , and can thrive on balanced , complete , plant-based diets .
They have nutrient requirements , not ingredient requirements , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t an all-or-nothing choice , says Angie Krause .
“ Eventually , my patient will always reveal what works for them .
Listen to your pet ’ s body .
”

Eating healthy is a family affair, and that includes the family pet. However, what works for humans may be less than optimal for Fluffy or Fido, as each requires a species-specific, nutritionally balanced regimen. Most pet parents opt for commercial dog or cat food that comes in a bag or a can, but many are beginning to consider more natural options. “Kibble is often the most economical way to feed your pet. But its processed state makes it the least optimal,” says Angie Krause, DVM, at Boulder Holistic Vet , in Colorado.
Canned food is also heavily processed and potentially toxic. In 2017, Clean Label Project , a nonprofit testing laboratory, completed a study of 1,084 pet food products, screening them for more than 130 toxins and contaminants linked to cancer and other conditions. Results showed cadmium, a heavy metal, in 94 percent of the products, along with arsenic and lead.
Contaminants aren’t the only concern. “Up to 50 percent of commercial foods are composed of meat meal and byproducts,” says Armaiti May, DVM, owner of Dr. May’s Veterinary House Calls , in Los Angeles.
These can include meat from dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals, and even rendered dogs and cats from animal shelters, says May. “We are seeing more cancer, neurologic conditions and kidney disease, and there is evidence that the increase in these diseases may be due to harmful ingredients in commercial, meat-based foods.”
Healthy Alternative Diets
Owners that switch from commercial foods report their animals display thicker coats, brighter eyes and greater energy. However, dogs and cats require specific ranges of vitamins, minerals, fats and carbohydrates, so it’s important to ensure that nutritional needs are met and a healthy balance is maintained.
Home-Cooked
Pet food recalls have prompted some families to start cooking for their charges, but it’s not as simple as sharing the family dinner. “There are online calculators that can help you create and balance recipes for dogs and cats. Balancing a diet can be tedious and often requires added supplements,” says Krause.
Seeing a four-legged friend thrive was worth the extra time and cost for Yvonnda Stamp-Agent, a homemaker from Rockvale, Tennessee. Emma, a schnauzer mix, suffered from itchy skin, anal gland leakage, kidney crystals, vomiting and other problems. “We switched to home-cooked wild salmon and flounder protein with fresh organic vegetables and fruits, along with vitamin and mineral supplementation.” Emma recovered and is now an energetic 5-year-old.
Raw
The biologically appropriate raw food (BARF) diet, as described at BARF World , contains raw meats, vegetables and cooked grains and legumes. Proponents say it improves health from tooth to tail. “Buddha, my orange tabby, is 22 and no longer has an issue with hairballs,” says Kim Bolin, a Reno, Nevada real estate agent, who has fed raw for three years.
Stephanie Krause, in Keego Harbor, Michigan, says her three dogs are more relaxed, probably from the time and effort needed to eat large bones—and they haven’t needed a teeth cleaning since going raw. “After eating raw bones, there was plaque laying all over the floor.”
The BARF diet can be homemade, although most choose prepared frozen or freeze-dried products to ensure nutrient balance or to avoid handling raw meats. Angie Krause says the diet is controversial, largely due to human health risks from pathogenic bacteria.
Vegan and Vegetarian
For ethical and environmental reasons, homemade or pre-made, plant-based diets for companion animals are becoming more popular. “If the 163 million dogs and cats in the U.S. were their own country, it would be the fifth-largest meat-eating country on the planet,” says May.
Cats cannot survive without meat, which provides the high protein, amino acids and other nutrients their bodies require. However, a 2018 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that plant-based diets, possibly supplemented with vitamins B12 and D and some amino acids, can meet nutrition requirements of dogs.
“Dogs are omnivores, and can thrive on balanced, complete, plant-based diets. They have nutrient requirements, not ingredient requirements,” says May.
Pet diets aren’t an all-or-nothing choice, says Angie Krause. “Eventually, my patient will always reveal what works for them. Listen to your pet’s body.”
Julie Peterson lives in rural Wisconsin. Connect at [email protected].


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-18--Cold-Busters: Natural Remedies for Kids

Cold-Busters: Natural Remedies for Kids

March brings the first whiffs of fragrant spring air , along with a heightened chance of runny noses , coughs , sore throats and congestion in youngsters .
The spring and fall months are the most likely times to catch a cold because seasonal allergens inflame nostrils , making it easier for cold viruses to have their way .
Although many worried parents reach for cold and cough medicines , antihistamines or even antibiotics , there is little evidence that these ease symptoms or hasten recovery , and they may even cause harm , according to reports from the American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The AAP suggests some natural approaches for symptoms , including sponging for fevers as well as hydration , honey and chest rubs .
A metastudy published in American Family Physician in 2012 found that treatment with buckwheat honey , Umcka ColdCare , nasal saline irrigation , a vapor rub or zinc sulfate “ may decrease cold symptoms in children.
” Here are those and some other natural strategies : 1 .
Hydration to flush out germs : “ If your child doesn ’ t like drinking water , add a spritz of lemon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ juice to give it some flavor , ” advises Heather Tynan , ND , of Evergreen Naturopathic , in San Diego .
A child can also drink coconut water or suck on frozen berries or popsicles .
2 .
Honey for sleeplessness and coughs : Honey can kill both viruses and bacteria , and in a Pennsylvania State University study , a bedtime teaspoon of buckwheat honey beat out dextromethorphan , a cough suppressant used in over-the-counter cold and cough medicines , in helping kids sleep better and cough less .
( But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kid under age 1 because of the risk of botulism . )
3 .
Chest rub to ease congestion : A chest rub can help clear a child ’ s congestion , but choose natural ingredients like aloe , eucalyptus , lavender and rosemary ; that ’ s a safer bet than the standard mentholated products which can cause breathing problems in toddlers .
Natural alternatives are sold at health food stores , and a do-it-yourself version can be made simply by mixing together one cup of coconut oil , 20 drops of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oil .
4 .
Essential oils to fight infection : A combination of five essential oils—clove , lemon , cinnamon bark , eucalyptus and rosemary , commonly known as four thieves—has antibacterial , antiseptic , antiviral and immune-stimulating properties , says Tynan .
“ Diffuse it in your child ’ s room , or dilute well ( about one to two drops per five milliliters of carrier oil ) and apply under their nose , behind their ears and on the back of their neck , on their chest and on the soles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gargle for a sore throat : As soon as anyone in her family shows signs of getting sick , they begin gargling with salt water , says Tangela Walker-Craft , a mother and former teacher in Lakeland , Florida .
“ Saltwater loosens mucus and flushes bacteria out of the throat .
It will also help to reduce swelling , ” she says .
6 .
Elderberry or Umcka to ease symptoms : A recent meta-analysis in Complementary Therapies in Medicine concluded that elderberry syrup ( in stores as Sambucol ) reduces the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms .
“ The syrup is sweet and delicious , so typically very easy to get children to take , ” says naturopathic doctor Kiera Smialek , of Scottsdale , Arizona .
Umcka ColdCare , based on the South African geranium , halved cold symptoms in five days compared to a placebo in a University of Chicago study .
7 .
Zinc sulfate to shorten a cold : If taken within the first 24 hours of symptoms , zinc sulfate tablets or syrup can reduce colds by a day or more , studies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boost immunity : This odd-sounding strategy “ increases circulation , decreases chest congestion and increases the activity of the immune system , ” says Smialek .
Soak a pair of cotton socks in ice cold water .
Wring them out and place them on the child ’ s feet .
Cover them with thick dry socks , ideally wool .
Keep them on overnight .
In the morning , the wet , cotton socks will be dry .

by Ronica O’Hara
March brings the first whiffs of fragrant spring air, along with a heightened chance of runny noses, coughs, sore throats and congestion in youngsters. The spring and fall months are the most likely times to catch a cold because seasonal allergens inflame nostrils, making it easier for cold viruses to have their way. Although many worried parents reach for cold and cough medicines, antihistamines or even antibiotics, there is little evidence that these ease symptoms or hasten recovery, and they may even cause harm, according to reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
The AAP suggests some natural approaches for symptoms, including sponging for fevers as well as hydration, honey and chest rubs. A metastudy published in American Family Physician in 2012 found that treatment with buckwheat honey, Umcka ColdCare, nasal saline irrigation, a vapor rub or zinc sulfate “may decrease cold symptoms in children.” Here are those and some other natural strategies:
1. Hydration to flush out germs: “If your child doesn’t like drinking water, add a spritz of lemon, ginger, crushed berries or fruit juice to give it some flavor,” advises Heather Tynan, ND, of Evergreen Naturopathic, in San Diego. A child can also drink coconut water or suck on frozen berries or popsicles.
2. Honey for sleeplessness and coughs: Honey can kill both viruses and bacteria, and in a Pennsylvania State University study, a bedtime teaspoon of buckwheat honey beat out dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant used in over-the-counter cold and cough medicines, in helping kids sleep better and cough less. (But don’t give honey to a kid under age 1 because of the risk of botulism.)
3. Chest rub to ease congestion: A chest rub can help clear a child’s congestion, but choose natural ingredients like aloe, eucalyptus, lavender and rosemary; that’s a safer bet than the standard mentholated products which can cause breathing problems in toddlers. Natural alternatives are sold at health food stores, and a do-it-yourself version can be made simply by mixing together one cup of coconut oil, 20 drops of eucalyptus oil and 10 drops of peppermint oil.
4. Essential oils to fight infection: A combination of five essential oils—clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus and rosemary, commonly known as four thieves—has antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral and immune-stimulating properties, says Tynan. “Diffuse it in your child’s room, or dilute well (about one to two drops per five milliliters of carrier oil) and apply under their nose, behind their ears and on the back of their neck, on their chest and on the soles of their feet.”
5. Saltwater gargle for a sore throat: As soon as anyone in her family shows signs of getting sick, they begin gargling with salt water, says Tangela Walker-Craft, a mother and former teacher in Lakeland, Florida. “Saltwater loosens mucus and flushes bacteria out of the throat. It will also help to reduce swelling,” she says.
6. Elderberry or Umcka to ease symptoms: A recent meta-analysis in Complementary Therapies in Medicine concluded that elderberry syrup (in stores as Sambucol) reduces the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. “The syrup is sweet and delicious, so typically very easy to get children to take,” says naturopathic doctor Kiera Smialek, of Scottsdale, Arizona. Umcka ColdCare, based on the South African geranium, halved cold symptoms in five days compared to a placebo in a University of Chicago study.
7. Zinc sulfate to shorten a cold: If taken within the first 24 hours of symptoms, zinc sulfate tablets or syrup can reduce colds by a day or more, studies suggest.
8. Warming socks to boost immunity: This odd-sounding strategy “increases circulation, decreases chest congestion and increases the activity of the immune system,” says Smialek. Soak a pair of cotton socks in ice cold water. Wring them out and place them on the child’s feet. Cover them with thick dry socks, ideally wool. Keep them on overnight. In the morning, the wet, cotton socks will be dry.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-20--Ronnie Cummins on Growing a Movement

Ronnie Cummins on Growing a Movement

It ’ s a movement that spread when people started to understand that the climate crisis was very , very serious and connected to other crises we face—our health and farmers not being able to make a living , for example .
It ’ s about identifying regenerative practices around the world , publicizing them and changing public policy .
We use the slogan , “ Healthy soil , healthy ecosystem , healthy plants , healthy food , healthy people , healthy animals , healthy climate.
” All these living systems are interconnected .
Regeneration of one system impacts another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climate .
What ’ s the difference between organic and regenerative farming ?
Regenerative farming is simply the next stage of organic , focusing on soil health , carbon sequestration and ecosystem restoration .
We call it “ regenerative organic ” because people understand organic .
But when we devised organic standards , we didn ’ t completely understand soil biology and the carbon cycle .
Now we know that there ’ s important biological life below the soil .
We understand carbon sequestration .
Regenerative organic farming rebuilds the soil , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the climate .
It ’ s a transformation of the food system .
What will it require to achieve the goals of the Green New Deal , which calls for net zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2030 ?
First , consumers need to understand the interconnectedness of things so that they make decisions to create market pressure .
Second , farmers , ranchers and land managers need to use regenerative best practices .
Third is political power and policy change to drive regeneration .
We need elected officials to understand regenerative ideas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to hear that we don ’ t want our tax money used for degenerative practices .
Fourth is money .
It will take trillions of dollars over the next decade , with much money coming from government funding .
But private investments also need to shift .
Our savings , pensions and retirement accounts need to be in financial institutions that place assets in regenerative , socially responsible investing .
How can we help address climate change on a personal level ?
Every time you pull out your wallet , you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the continuation of degeneration .
Everything you buy is a vote .
What you talk about and do every day is also extremely important .
Americans spend half of their food dollars eating out .
Learn to cook , invite people over for dinner , teach your kids how to cook .
Eating is an agricultural act .
Everyone should also be active in civic organizations .
Run for office .
It doesn ’ t have to be in politics , it could be a conservation committee or school board .
Do what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ framework and you will have a big impact .
Things aren ’ t hopeless .
It ’ s plausible that we are going to solve this .
Unfortunately , it took until now for people to wake up .
I believe people have an innate love for nature and other people , but if they ’ re hopeless and unaware , they ’ re going to behave as if they don ’ t care .
There is an increasing common awareness and responsibility to get the job done .
This is a spiritual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agricultural and alternative energy movement .
What inspired you to write about this issue ?
Elizabeth Greene writes about the environment .
Connect at [ email protected ] About 10 years ago , I learned that regenerative food , farming and land use , in combination with renewable energy and radical energy conservation , could solve the climate crisis .
I did more research , helped form Regeneration International and then saw that there wasn ’ t a roadmap for regeneration .
I needed to write the book so that the climate movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would understand climate .
And I need for everyone to understand that there is hope .

by Elizabeth Greene
For five decades, human rights activist, journalist and author Ronnie Cummins has campaigned for natural health and the environment. Since he co-founded the Organic Consumers Association in 1998, the nonprofit has grown to a network that’s 2 million people strong, dedicated to promoting organic food, regenerative farming and commerce through global initiatives that integrate public education, marketplace pressure, media outreach, litigation and grassroots lobbying.
It’s a movement that spread when people started to understand that the climate crisis was very, very serious and connected to other crises we face—our health and farmers not being able to make a living, for example. It’s about identifying regenerative practices around the world, publicizing them and changing public policy. We use the slogan, “Healthy soil, healthy ecosystem, healthy plants, healthy food, healthy people, healthy animals, healthy climate.” All these living systems are interconnected. Regeneration of one system impacts another, which will lead to stabilizing the climate.
What’s the difference between organic and regenerative farming?
Regenerative farming is simply the next stage of organic, focusing on soil health, carbon sequestration and ecosystem restoration. We call it “regenerative organic” because people understand organic. But when we devised organic standards, we didn’t completely understand soil biology and the carbon cycle. Now we know that there’s important biological life below the soil. We understand carbon sequestration. Regenerative organic farming rebuilds the soil, which improves food, health and eventually, the climate. It’s a transformation of the food system.
What will it require to achieve the goals of the Green New Deal, which calls for net zero emissions of greenhouse gases by 2030?
First, consumers need to understand the interconnectedness of things so that they make decisions to create market pressure. Second, farmers, ranchers and land managers need to use regenerative best practices. Third is political power and policy change to drive regeneration. We need elected officials to understand regenerative ideas and feel pressure from constituents. Officials need to hear that we don’t want our tax money used for degenerative practices. Fourth is money. It will take trillions of dollars over the next decade, with much money coming from government funding. But private investments also need to shift. Our savings, pensions and retirement accounts need to be in financial institutions that place assets in regenerative, socially responsible investing.
How can we help address climate change on a personal level?
Every time you pull out your wallet, you are either casting your vote for regeneration or the continuation of degeneration. Everything you buy is a vote. What you talk about and do every day is also extremely important. Americans spend half of their food dollars eating out. Learn to cook, invite people over for dinner, teach your kids how to cook. Eating is an agricultural act.
Everyone should also be active in civic organizations. Run for office. It doesn’t have to be in politics, it could be a conservation committee or school board. Do what you can do best inside this regenerative framework and you will have a big impact.
Things aren’t hopeless. It’s plausible that we are going to solve this. Unfortunately, it took until now for people to wake up. I believe people have an innate love for nature and other people, but if they’re hopeless and unaware, they’re going to behave as if they don’t care. There is an increasing common awareness and responsibility to get the job done. This is a spiritual movement as much as it is an agricultural and alternative energy movement.
What inspired you to write about this issue?


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-02-20--Living In Synchronicity: The Power of Meaningful Coincidence

When we have an inner need that converges with an outside event , it is a meaningful coincidence known as synchronicity , and it happens to us all .
It can be simple , like a playful sprite : recurring numbers or dates , all the lights turning green as we race to meet an appointment or a call from a faraway friend just when we want to talk to them .
Or it can be profound : a chance meeting with an employer looking for exactly our skills , unexpected money appearing when we ’ re in a pinch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s favorite , obscure song coming on the radio or app just as we ’ re feeling teary-eyed on the anniversary of her death .
Whether they are lighthearted or life-changing , synchronicities link us to an underlying order in the universe that is profoundly reassuring .
They open us to mystery and delight .
They give us a sense of being taken care of .
They nudge us to grow in scary , but life-affirming directions .
They awaken a sense of awe , which studies have shown to be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out generously to others—and that evokes even more synchronicity .
And they can make daily life a lark .
By its very nature , we can ’ t create synchronicity , but we can live life in a way that encourages it to show up .
The more engaged we are spiritually—whether that means prayer , meditation , walking in nature or loving others deeply—the more likely synchronicity is .
Being open , self-honest , courageous , engaged , grateful and fully present summons it , which is where therapy , yoga and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t have to be saintly or enlightened ; synchronicity is there for us all .
It is simply the way the Universe works .
The first step is to notice synchronicity when it occurs , and honor it .
As with humans , when we give it our attention and say thank you , it makes it more likely to show up in our life again .
Meg Lundstrom is the co-author with Charlene Belitz of The Power of Flow : Practical Ways to Transform Your Life with Meaningful Coincidence .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , synchronicity becomes simply the way our life works .
Things show up as we need them and we are in the right place at the right time .
Even when occurrences seemingly go awry , we glimpse an underlying order that gives us strength and purpose .
Life becomes a steady stream of meaningfulness and inner and outer exploration .
We find ourselves living in flow , attuned to life ’ s deepest currents and awash in deep gratitude .

by Meg Lundstrom
When we have an inner need that converges with an outside event, it is a meaningful coincidence known as synchronicity, and it happens to us all. It can be simple, like a playful sprite: recurring numbers or dates, all the lights turning green as we race to meet an appointment or a call from a faraway friend just when we want to talk to them. Or it can be profound: a chance meeting with an employer looking for exactly our skills, unexpected money appearing when we’re in a pinch, a timely rescue or our grandmother’s favorite, obscure song coming on the radio or app just as we’re feeling teary-eyed on the anniversary of her death.
Whether they are lighthearted or life-changing, synchronicities link us to an underlying order in the universe that is profoundly reassuring. They open us to mystery and delight. They give us a sense of being taken care of. They nudge us to grow in scary, but life-affirming directions. They awaken a sense of awe, which studies have shown to be the emotion most likely to make us reach out generously to others—and that evokes even more synchronicity. And they can make daily life a lark.
By its very nature, we can’t create synchronicity, but we can live life in a way that encourages it to show up. The more engaged we are spiritually—whether that means prayer, meditation, walking in nature or loving others deeply—the more likely synchronicity is. Being open, self-honest, courageous, engaged, grateful and fully present summons it, which is where therapy, yoga and bodywork can be useful. But we don’t have to be saintly or enlightened; synchronicity is there for us all. It is simply the way the Universe works.
The first step is to notice synchronicity when it occurs, and honor it. As with humans, when we give it our attention and say thank you, it makes it more likely to show up in our life again.