Leigh Matthews, Author at PGX®

6 Healthy and Simple Bread Swaps You’ll Love

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 2 June 2016

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I confess, I’m rather fond of bread – perhaps a little too fond. I grew up making bread with my mother and it’s still one of my favorite culinary pastimes, especially as it makes my house smell wonderful! But while I love bread, it’s not something I should be eating all the time, which has led me to wonder, what are some creative and healthy bread swaps?

Eating less bread opens you up to enjoy a more varied and nutritious diet. In addition to crowding out many more nutrient-rich foods, even whole wheat bread can be high on the glycemic index, putting a demand on insulin production.**

High-gluten bread can also pose something of a challenge to people who are sensitive to gluten and wheat. Sourdough bread (where the flour is already partially digested through fermentation) may be a good option for some people who struggle to digest other types of bread, but who still want their bread fix.

6 Healthy and Simple Bread Swaps

If you’re like me and are a little too reliant on bread as a dietary staple, try the following six ideas to help cut down on bread and improve your nutrient intake:

1. Corn Tortillas

A fantastic wheat-free replacement for bread, and much lower in calories, corn tortillas can be used to make salad and vegetable wraps, burritos, and even burgers! Corn tortillas are so versatile, you can even transform them into oven-baked tortilla chips, perfect for dipping in hummus and salsa.

2. Sweet Potatoes

In a pinch, two slices of baked sweet potato can be used in place of a burger bun, providing a healthy dose of the antioxidant beta-carotene in the process. You could also use sweet potatoes and oat, or rice flour to make delicious wheat-free bread.

3. Cucumber Halves

Slicing an English cucumber lengthways and then scooping out the flesh leaves you with an excellent vessel into which all your typical sandwich fixings fit perfectly. Pop the halves of the cucumber together and you have a refreshing sandwich!

4. Leafy Greens

Large leaves of iceberg lettuce, romaine, little gem, flat kale, or cabbage can make an excellent alternative to slices of bread when making a sandwich or wrap, significantly cutting calories and carbohydrates.

5. Stuffed Veggies

Eggplant, bell pepper, and large mushrooms, such as portobellos, are excellent bread alternatives and can be easily stuffed with mashed pesto tofu; rice or quinoa and veggies; a mixture of ground nuts, herbs, and onions; or chickpea and tahini mash as a rustic hummus filling.

6. Overnight Oats or Savory Oatmeal

If toast is your go-to breakfast food, it can be hard to think of alternatives that are just as easy, delicious and filling first thing in the morning. Don’t worry! Overnight oats offer a simple, tasty and nutritious breakfast that you make the night before and can grab on the way out the door. Here’s how:

Mix a half cup of oats with a cup of almond milk
Add a tablespoon of chia seeds, a mashed banana, and a dash of cinnamon and maple syrup for extra sweetness
Leave in an airtight container in the refrigerator overnight

Savory oatmeal, with bok choi, sesame oil, sliced carrots, tamari, puffed tofu, garlic and ginger is also a delicious alternative to a full English breakfast with toast.

image-pgx-blog-point-20160502 For a true bread-like option, you might consider making Ezekiel bread using sprouted grains and legumes, including millet, spelt, and lentils. Not only do the sprouted ingredients add extra nutrients and beneficial bacteria, they’re also more easily digested. Some bakeries and grocery stores carry sprouted bread, or you can make your own!

** This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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5 Killer Workout Snacks You Need to Try

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 12 May 2016

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Fuelling up before a workout can help you get the most out of your gym session, bike ride, or time on the running track. The right kind of pre-workout snacks can keep hunger and fatigue at bay so you can get through your workout. Smart snacking can also help minimize muscle soreness, support healthy immune function, and may even maximize muscle growth.*

Snacking is Not One-Size Fits All

What constitutes smart snacking is somewhat contentious, however, with athletes and trainers, and even dietitians and nutritionists quibbling over what’s best to eat before exercising. In part, this is because different types of exercise place different demands on the body and, thus, respond differently to whatever we eat beforehand. Additionally, every individual has their own quirks of digestion and metabolism, meaning that what works for one person might not have the same results for another.

The Basic Guidelines

Does this mean it’s anyone’s guess, then, as to what to eat before a workout? Well, not quite. There are some key tenets that do seem to apply across the board, such as:

Avoiding large amounts of fiber and dairy just before a workout
Choosing easily digestible carbohydrates (such as from fruit)
Including a little monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fat
Eating a snack containing some protein (but not too much)

These basic rules help to keep low blood sugar at bay, minimizing the likelihood of fatigue and poor exercise performance.

Fats and Protein

Healthy fats provide energy and can support a normal inflammatory response, which may help prevent muscle soreness post-workout.* Fats and protein assist in slowing digestion, helping to maintain a steady release of energy. Protein is needed for healthy immune function and to build and repair muscle tissue.*

Without further ado, here are 5 food combinations that are killer workout snacks:

1. Chia Pudding

Everyone loves chia pudding these days and no wonder. These little seeds are a source of healthy fats and protein and are versatile and delicious.

Mix half a cup of almond milk with 2 tablespoons of chia seeds in a Mason jar, then add a dash of maple syrup or a teaspoon of coconut sugar, shake it up and refrigerate overnight. Grab it on your way out the door to the gym in the morning for a quick burst of energy.

2. Whole Grain Toast with Peanut Butter and Blueberry Jam

Spread a tablespoon of peanut butter and a teaspoon of blueberry jam onto one slice of whole grain toast for a snack high in carbohydrates with antioxidants, a little bit of fat and a decent amount of protein to boot.

3. Banana with Almond Butter

Bananas are hands-down one of the best pre and post workout foods. They are convenient, delicious, readily available, and full of easily digestible carbohydrates and potassium (a vital electrolyte lost in sweat), as well as being a source of tryptophan which the body converts into serotonin, helping you to feel good about exercising!

Eat a tablespoon of almond butter with your banana for extra protein and healthy fats, as well as for additional calcium, which is needed for proper muscle contraction.

4. Walnuts and Beet Juice

Walnuts are an excellent source of protein, minerals, and essential fatty acids that can help support a healthy inflammatory response.* Eat eight or so walnuts along with a glass of beet juice before a workout – the nitrates in beets appear to support healthy oxygenation of muscles, helping to enhance performance and recovery, especially during intense physical activity (Breese et al., 2013; Jones et al., 2013).*

5. Raspberries, Avocados, and Spirulina or Cocoa

For a powerful antioxidant pre-workout smoothie, mix up half an avocado with a cup of almond milk, a cup of frozen raspberries and a tablespoon of high quality cocoa powder or spirulina. The avocado offers healthy fats to fuel your workout and maintain muscle health; the almond milk is a source of calcium and protein; the raspberries, cocoa powder, and spirulina have antioxidants that help stave off free radical damage associated with exercise; and spirulina has also been shown to help in endurance exercise (Lu et al., 2006).

Some other great food combos that are excellent snacks to eat an hour or so before a workout include:

Granola with almond milk and apple sauce OR banana slices
Mango smoothie with hemp milk and turmeric
Roasted salt and pepper chickpeas
Dates stuffed with almond butter
Cashew beet pate on a slice of toast

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

References

Breese, B.C., McNarry, M.A., Marwood, S., et al. (2013). Beetroot juice supplementation speeds O2 uptake kinetics and improves exercise tolerance during severe-intensity exercise initiated from an elevated metabolic rate. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol, Dec 15;305(12):R1441-50.

Jones, A.M., Vanhatalo, A., & Bailey, S.J. (2013). Influence of dietary nitrate supplementation on exercise tolerance and performance. Nestle Nutr Inst Workshop Ser, 75:27-40.

Lu, H.K., Hsieh, C.C., Hsu, J.J., et al. (2006). Preventive effects of Spirulina platensis on skeletal muscle damage under exercise-induced oxidative stress. Eur J Appl Physiol, Sep;98(2):220-6.

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The Importance of Electrolytes

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 26 April 2016

A host of sports drinks and rehydration products are marketed as a rich source of electrolytes, to the point where these products have become subject to parody (see the movie ‘Idiocracy’, for example). So it makes sense to wonder if electrolytes live up to the hype and why exactly, we need them.

What is an Electrolyte?

As you may remember from school biology classes, electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that are essential for human health. Some of the most common ones include:

Sodium
Potassium
Calcium
Magnesium
Chloride
Phosphorous

Why Do We Need Them?

Electrolytes are needed for proper muscle function and nerve signalling, and to control what goes in and comes out of our cells, including water.* Without the right balance of electrolytes, cells begin to lose water and let in toxins. * They also help keep a healthy blood pH and normal healthy bone function and other essential physiological processes.*

Maintaining Electrolyte Balance

Electrolytes are lost when we sweat and when we go to the bathroom, although our kidneys are usually pretty good at conserving them as needed. In order to maintain levels of electrolytes in our blood and tissues, we have to drink fluids that contain these minerals or get them from our food.

Water itself does not contain electrolytes and drinking too much water without enough electrolytes can cause an imbalance. In fact, by ensuring a good intake of electrolytes, it is possible to keep hydrated more efficiently with less water, which could give athletes a competitive edge, save time in emergency situations, and help to conserve water.

To stay properly hydrated, we usually just need to drink plenty of water and eat fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy whole grains, nuts, seeds, pulses and legumes, all of which contain a variety of essential minerals, including electrolytes.

However, when hot weather, intense exercise or anything else causes us to lose a lot of fluids, a ready-made electrolyte product can be useful. Try mixing up this delicious PGX Coconut Blast SatisFast shake to have on hand.*

Not Just for Athletes

Electrolyte drinks, powders and other products are not just designed for professional athletes, but for everyday gym-goers and people who live in a hot climate. In fact, electrolyte products are often used by firefighters tackling wildfires, as well as by anyone engaged in strenuous work, especially in the intense heat.

Staying properly hydrated and keeping our electrolyte levels balanced supports good health, but watch out for ready-made drinks that contain large amounts of sugar, as well as artificial sweeteners, flavorings, colors and preservatives. Instead, choose natural products such as coconut water to replace lost minerals as part of an overall balanced diet.

Anyone taking medications that affect levels of potassium, calcium or other electrolytes, or who has high blood pressure should check with their health care practitioner prior to using products containing electrolytes.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Reference
Cuddy, J.S., Ham, J.A., Harger, S.G., et al., (2008). Effects of an Electrolyte Additive on Hydration and Drinking Behavior During Wildfire Suppression. WEM, 19:172-180.

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5 Healthy Appetizer Recipes

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 7 April 2016

Healthy Appetizer Recipes

Appetizers are a key component to a social gathering! But they can also be a drag if you’re trying to maintain your healthy eating habits and everything getting passed around is deep-fried, cheese-filled or processed. Whether you’re hosting an event, or simply in need of providing a tasty tray for one, these 5 healthy appetizer recipes are ones you’ll want to make over and over again:

1. Pistachio Pesto Baked Mushrooms

To make the pesto, add the following to a food processor and mix until combined:

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup arugula
1/4 cup pistachio nuts (raw, shelled, unsalted, or adjust salt)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Cut the stalks off two dozen cremini mushrooms and fill the centre of each with the pesto
Place the mushrooms on a baking tray and drizzle a little olive oil over them
Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes and let cool slightly before serving, or serve cold

2. Baked Chickpea Fritters

An ideal finger food, chickpea fritters are easy to make, easy to store and easy to eat!

Recipe makes around 24 mini fritters

1 cup chickpea flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
3/4 cup hot water
1 cup chopped spinach (fresh)
3 minced garlic cloves
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup cooked chickpeas
2 chopped scallions

Combine chickpea flour, salt, and cumin. Add the hot water, a little at a time util a thick paste forms
Let mixture stand for around an hour
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees
Add spinach, garlic, baking soda, cooked chickpeas and scallions to the batter
Drop 1/4 cup amounts of batter onto a baking tray lined with parchment
Bake for 15 minutes, flip, and bake for another ten minutes
Serve with hot sauce or a creamy lemon cashew dipping sauce

3. White Bean and Parsley Dip With Pita Chips

Perhaps the simplest of healthy appetizers, this delightful dip is made by adding all the ingredients to a food processor and mixing until smooth (it’s also fine to leave it a little rustic):

1 can of cannellini beans
2 cloves of garlic
1/2 cup of fresh parsley
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the pita chips:

Bake triangles of whole wheat pita bread on baking trays in the oven for 7-8 minutes at 400 degrees
Consider tossing the pita triangles in a little oil, salt, pepper and mixed herbs before baking, for extra pizzazz!

4. Quinoa Tabbouleh

Popular as a healthy food, quinoa is packed with protein and can easily be substituted for the traditional bulgur wheat used when making tabbouleh.

Recipe makes around 24 small servings

2 cups quinoa, rinsed
1 tsp salt
The juice of a fresh lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup hemp oil (or 1/4 cup flax oil and 1/4 cup hemp oil for added omega-3)
2 medium-sized English cucumbers (ridgeless), chopped into 1/4 inch pieces
2 pints of cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
1 cup curly kale, massaged and chopped
1 cup chopped fresh mint

In a large bowl, mixx all the ingredients together.

5. Smoked Tofu, Avocado and Sun-Dried Tomato Tapenade

This one is, admittedly, a little laborious, but it can be a fun activity to keep the kids occupied during party prep. The tapenade can also be made in advance.

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
2 tbsps basil (dried)
2 tbsps fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tsps olive oil

Begin by soaking a cup of sun-dried tomatoes in hot water for 15 minutes
Cut 1/4 inch slices of smoked tofu and similarly sized slices of avocado
Drizzle a little fresh lemon juice over the avocado to avoid oxidation (browning) and cover with plastic wrap while you process the tapenade
Drain the tomatoes, but reserve the soaking water
Add the tomatoes to a food processor along with the Kalamata olives, basil, lemon juice, garlic and olive oil
Create open-top sandwiches with a slice of smoked tofu on the bottom, a slice of avocado on top of that, and a little bit of sun-dried tomato tapenade to finish

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The Health Benefits of Eggplant

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 15 March 2016

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The peculiarly shaped eggplant may have been associated with madness in Renaissance England, but fortunately for us, modern science has revealed that this rather strange looking vegetable is highly nutritious. Eggplants contain plenty of fiber and are packed with phytonutrients, including some rare antioxidants. Let’s take a closer look at all the benefits eggplant has to offer:

Antioxidants

Nasunin is concentrated in the skin of purple eggplants, where it protects the vegetable from the sun’s rays and from environmental damage (Azuma et al., 2008). So far, Nasunin has only been found in eggplant, purple radish, red turnip and red cabbage.

Research suggests that nasunin can help improve antioxidant activity in human cells, giving it a role to play in guarding against oxidative damage and associated health conditions. In one study, nasunin was found to protect colon cells from DNA damage in a dose-dependent manner (Jing et al., 2015). In another study, nasunin and petunidin 3RGc5G, another anthocyanin in eggplants, demonstrated excellent free radical scavenging abilities (Azuma et al., 2008).

Nasunin has also shown antiangiogenic activity, meaning that it may help to prevent the growth of blood vessels required to feed tumour growth (Matsubara et al., 2005). Antioxidants like nasunin have also been seen to help protect heart muscle cells (Das et al., 2011), while glycoalkoloids, namely a-solamargine and a-solasonine (found in eggplant and other Solanaceous vegetables), have been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the laboratory and in animals (Friedman, 2015).

In addition to their anthocyanin content, eggplants contain chlorogenic acid, another antioxidant compound that may help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range (Hao et al., 2016). Chlorogenic acid comprises between 70% and 90% of the total polyphenol content of eggplants (Gramazio et al., 2014), and some research suggests that this nutrient supports healthy cellular DNA replication and immune health in humans (NCBI, 2016).

Nutrients and Fiber

Eggplants also contain vitamin C, folate and other B vitamins, beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. These nutrients support immune function, bone health, muscle function, heart health and overall health.

Like most vegetables, eggplants are also high in fiber, meaning they can help you to feel full while maintaining a healthy body weight. Dietary fiber also helps to keep the digestive tract healthy for proper elimination of toxins.

Cooking with Eggplant

There’s no doubt that eggplants can be a little intimidating, given the range of shapes, sizes and colours available. It’s easy to get the hang of cooking with eggplants, though, and they are often found in Italian and Lebanese cuisine, where they work well with rich tomato sauces, basil, oregano and tahini.

Two of the simplest ways to cook eggplant are to slice it and fry it or, cut it in half and bake it with olive oil, salt and pepper. Eggplant is also a great addition to salads as the flesh of the vegetable soaks up dressings and oils to become rich and succulent.

Some people swear by halving or slicing eggplants, salting the flesh to draw out some of the bitterness and excess liquid and then rinsing after half an hour to an hour before cooking as desired. For younger, firmer and smaller eggplants this may not be necessary as these are less likely to contain large, bitter seeds.

Eggplants should be stored at about 50° F (10° C), so it is usually best to keep them refrigerated. Intact, unbruised eggplants will typically store well for up to a week. Use sliced, cut or bruised eggplant faster. To reduce food waste, consider baking, pureeing and freezing excess eggplant for later use in soups or stews.

One of my favourite ways to eat eggplant is to make roasted vegetable couscous. This dish is packed with flavour and nutrients and can be prepared in advance and eaten cold, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks and for a healthy midweek lunch.

Roasted Vegetable Couscous

Serves four as a side dish or two as a main

3 cups of whole wheat couscous (cooked)
1 cup of chickpeas (cooked)
2 small to medium eggplants (dark purple)
2 medium sized red peppers
2 medium or 1 large tomato (beefsteak is ideal)
¼ cup olive oil
1 medium red onion, finely diced
1 cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
Fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the eggplant on a baking tray and prick several times with a fork or sharp knife. Roast for 45 minutes to an hour, rotating two to three times. In a baking pan, roast the peppers for 45 minutes and the tomatoes for 30 minutes.
Remove the peppers from the oven and seal in a brown paper bag. Let them cool for twenty minutes; this will make it easier to remove the charred skins. Use this time to cook the couscous if you haven’t already.
Halve the eggplant and scoop out the flesh. Chop into pieces around an inch in size. De-seed the tomatoes and chop these into similarly sized pieces. Add the chopped vegetables to the couscous.
Peel the skins off the peppers and chop these into inch-sized pieces, removing the seeds and stems. Add these to the couscous mixture.
Add all the remaining ingredients and mix, seasoning to taste. Eat right away with flatbread, or let cool and then refrigerate for use within 24 hours.

References

Azuma, K., Ohyama, A., Ippoushi, K., et al. (2008). Structures and antioxidant activity of anthocyanins in many accessions of eggplant and its related species. J Agric Food Chem, Nov 12;5621):10154-9.

Das, S., Raychaudhuri, U., Falchi, M., et al. (2011). Cardioprotective properties of raw and cooked eggplant (Solanum melongena L). Food Funct, Jul;2(7):395-9.

Friedman, M. (2015). Chemistry and anticarcinogenic mechanisms of glycoalkaloids produced by eggplants, potatoes, and tomatoes. J Agric Food Chem, Apr 8;63(13):3323-37.

Gramazio, P., Prohens, J., Plazas, M., et al. (2014). Location of chlorogenic acid biosynthesis pathway and polyphenol oxidase genes in a new interspecific anchored linkage map of eggplant. BMC Plant Biol, Dec 10;14:350.

Hao, S., Xiao, Y., Lin, Y., et al. (2016). Chlorogenic acid-enriched extract from Eucommia ulmoides leaves inhibits hepatic lipid accumulation through regulation of cholesterol metabolism in HepG2 cells. Pharm Biol, Feb;54(2):251-9.

Jing, P., Qian, B., Zhao, S., et al. (2015). Effect of glycosylation patterns of Chinese eggplant anthocyanins and other derivatives on antioxidant effectiveness in human colon cell lines. Food Chem, Apr 1;172:183-9.

Matsubara, K., Kaneyuki, T., Miyake, T., & Mori, M. (2005). Antiangiogenic activity of nasunin, an antioxidant anthocyanin, in eggplant peels. J Agric Food Chem, Aug 10;53(16):6272-5.

National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Database; CID=1794427, https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/1794427 (accessed Jan. 26, 2016).

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Muscle Gain and Weight Loss

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 1 March 2016

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Have you been faithfully sticking to an exercise regimen fuelled by your weight loss goals, only to find that you’re actually gaining weight? While your instinct may be to feel disheartened, there may be a very good reason behind it – muscle gain!

Weight vs Fat

The important thing to note is that weight and fat are not the same. By toning up and getting stronger you may end up weighing a little more while looking and feeling much healthier. Of course, it’s all too easy to hop on the scale and mark your ‘progress’ by watching your weight drop, but if you’re losing muscle and water weight, this isn’t a cause for celebration.

The weight of our bodies is made up of muscle, ligaments, bones, organs, fat and water. To be healthy, you really don’t want to be losing bone mass, muscle mass or too much water. Instead, focusing on losing a little fat may help support overall good health.*

The Weight of Muscle

It takes consistent exercise and good dietary habits to start burning off excess fat stores. In contrast, we lose water weight rapidly and muscle mass more easily than fat. Sudden drops in weight after beginning an exercise regimen are usually, therefore, an indication of lost muscle and water, while more linear, steady weight loss suggests healthy, sustainable fat loss.

The trouble is, any losses in fat may be counteracted (weight-wise) by enhanced muscle growth, meaning that many people experience an initial drop in weight followed by little, if any, change on the scale, or even a steady increase. This is because the main storage form of fuel in the muscles is glycogen, and each gram of glucose (which is converted to glycogen) requires about three grams of water for storage. With the average person storing more than 1000 grams of glycogen, strong, healthy muscles can make up a significant amount of body weight.

Low Carb Diets

People who go on an intensely low carbohydrate diet do initially lose a lot of weight as this depletes glycogen stores and leads to associated water loss. The problem here, however, is that we need that muscle to stay healthy and to continue exercising. Once the initial euphoria of weight loss wears off, it is actually harder to maintain that trajectory because less muscle mass means we burn energy more slowly and are more likely to gain unhealthy weight. A low carb diet may also adversely affect mood and energy, further complicating healthy habits.

Healthy and Sustainable Fat Loss

To achieve healthy and sustainable fat loss it is essential to properly fuel muscles and to encourage the body to burn off fat stores for energy. This may not, however, translate to weight loss, at least in the short-term. Focus instead on listening to your body and enjoying the feeling of improved muscle strength, mobility and performance.

Mix up some aerobic and non-aerobic exercise that you enjoy – lift light weights, swim, cycle, join a local hiking group, or just play soccer with the kids at the weekend. When you start seeing food as good fuel and develop confidence in your ability to cycle to work, run a mile, clamber up a mountain or even just climb a few sets of stairs, this will feel so much better than checking the scale every morning.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease*

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3 Easy High-Energy Snacks

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 21 January 2016

While energy drinks and coffee can give you a boost when your get up and go has gone, you’re really just running off ‘borrowed’ energy rather than sound nutritional choices that will nourish your body.

High-sugar snacks devoid of fiber, protein, healthy fats and other nutrients are also just a recipe for an energy low. So, when choosing high-energy foods, opt for snacks that provide a ready source of energy along with a wealth of nutrients to help you metabolize your snack and stay healthy.

Here are three high-energy snack ideas that are easy to prepare:

1. Nut Butter and Apple Slices

One of the easiest ways to stock up on fuel is to slice up an apple and load each portion with peanut, almond, or cashew butter. Apples are a rich source of simple carbohydrates, but they also contain plenty of fiber to help maintain blood sugar levels already in the normal range. Team the fruit with a good source of protein and fat – like your favorite nut butter! – and you’ve got a nutrient-rich snack for the whole family.

2. Overnight Blueberry Oats

If you’re busy as a bee, don’t even think about skipping breakfast! Make overnight blueberry oats and start your day with a burst of energy and antioxidants. It’s easy:

1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon of applesauce or mashed banana
1 tablespoon of chia seeds
1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
1/2 cup of oats
1 cup of soy, almond or rice milk (or coconut milk for added luxury!)

Add all the ingredients into a mason jar and with the lid placed firmly on, give it a good shake to mix everything up. Refrigerator overnight. In the morning, grab your jar and a spoon and take your healthy breakfast to go!

3. Ginger-Date Energy Balls

Date-based energy balls are far and away my favorite high-energy snack. Easy to make in advance and customize, I often make Mason jars full of these as gifts for all the busy-bodies in my life. It’s best to use Medjool dates as these are naturally softer and easier to process. If you choose to use harder dates, soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes and drain and chop them before adding to the food processor.

The recipe below includes blackstrap molasses to boost iron intake, cinnamon to support healthy blood sugar regulation, and almonds as a source of protein, calcium and healthy fats. Add in some fresh ginger, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its warming effects and to support digestion.

2 cups almonds or cashews (raw, unsalted)
1 cup Medjool dates
2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated or minced)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Shredded coconut or ground almonds (for rolling to coat)

To make the energy balls, add all the ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth. Scoop out enough dough to form a bite-sized ball and roll it on a sheet of baking parchment before rolling it in shredded coconut. Store the balls in the refrigerator, using parchment to stop them sticking together, or freeze them for later use.

To add further punch to these high-energy snacks, try adding in a scoop of PGX protein powder* to your oats and energy balls for a slow release of fuel (and a little extra support for those muscles when moving heavy boxes!).

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

† This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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6 Best Post-Workout Foods

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 10 December 2015

6 Best Post-Workout Foods

Efficient refueling after a workout helps your body build and maintain muscle. Strength training and other types of exercise can cause tiny tears in the muscles which, when repaired, help to make the muscles stronger. However, your body needs a good supply of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats in order to make those repairs.

Research suggests that a 4:1 ratio of carbohydrate to protein is an efficient way to replenish muscle energy in the form of glycogen, and to kick start the healing process to build stronger and healthier muscles. This process also requires a good intake of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, including plenty of antioxidants, to stave off damage from the free radicals generated by increased metabolism during exercise.

Post-Workout: The Importance of Protein

When choosing post-workout foods, aim for between 6 and 20 grams of protein, depending on factors such as the intensity of your workout, your body weight, and your weight management goals. This helps feed your muscles without overtaxing digestion or overloading on amino acids that won’t be used.

A smoothie with a scoop of plant-based protein, such as PGX Protein*, is an easy and convenient way to get a good amount of protein, along with beneficial fibre, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

In addition to choosing foods with a good amount of protein, it’s also a good idea to keep your fat intake low immediately after exercise, as fat slows down digestion. However, including a source of omega-3 essential fatty acids can help support your body’s natural inflammatory response.†

6 Post-Workout Foods

Not a fan of smoothies? Not to worry! Keep the following foods on hand for a delicious, beneficial post-workout snack or meal:

1. Nut Butter and Banana Sandwich

PB & J, without the J! Try eating a banana, almond butter sandwich on whole wheat bread for a quick way to refuel after a session at the gym or after a big competition.

The almond butter and bread provide protein, and the almonds are a source of vitamin E, magnesium and calcium, which support healthy muscle function. Bananas contain easily digested carbohydrates to restock glycogen stores, in addition to a range of beneficial antioxidants. They also contain tryptophan, the amino acid that is converted into serotonin, so bananas could be the ideal post-workout snack for anyone who struggles to enjoy exercise!

2. Lentil Soup

A rich source of protein, iron and fibre, lentils are a great choice for any post-workout meal. They have about 2.2 grams of carbohydrates to 1 gram of protein, so adding in kale, spinach or chard to a basic lentil soup is a great way to meet that 4:1 ratio of carbohydrate to protein, all while stocking up on vitamins, minerals and a range of phytonutrients.

Mix in onions, leeks, shallots and/or garlic for additional sulfur compounds that help the body to produce glutathione, a key antioxidant enzyme that helps support muscle health.

3. Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a versatile whole food that can be boiled, roasted and salted for a handy post-workout snack. They can also be included in a vegetable stir fry with soba (buckwheat noodles) to round out the protein for a heartier meal, or processed into hummus as a simple, tasty dip to enjoy alongside fresh vegetables or pita bread.

Chickpeas have a 3:1 ratio of carbohydrate to protein, barely any fat, and when you combine them with a little lemon juice (rich in vitamin C), they’re a good source of iron.

4. Chia-Tofu Pudding With Blueberries

Chia seeds are a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids required in our diet. They’re also a good source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. When whipped up with some silken tofu, blueberries, and a dash of maple syrup, chia seeds transform into a delicious pudding that is high in antioxidants, protein and fibre.

5. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, beta-carotene, vitamins C, B2, B6, B5 (pantothenic acid), folic acid, copper and potassium. Team a sweet potato with a good source of protein, like hummus or beans, and you’ll have an excellent antioxidant-rich post-workout meal.

6. Maca

This root vegetable is a rich source of nutrients and is traditionally used to support adrenal gland function, helping the body to cope with stress. Maca may also help keep cortisol levels in check, which can support healthy blood glucose regulation already within the normal range and support a healthy inflammatory response.† Powdered maca can be added to any smoothie, or even to soup for convenience.

Developing Good Post-Workout Eating Habits

It’s important to eat well after exercise so as to not leave yourself vulnerable to injury and to support a healthy immune system.† Exercising without giving your body enough time and the right nutrition to repair muscles can increase the risk of muscle soreness and injury, as well as making you susceptible to fatigue and less than optimal support for your immune system.†

If you find it hard to eat after exercising, try a protein shake or soup. Liquids are easier to consume, digest and assimilate, meaning that you can pack in more good nutrition without expending energy chewing and breaking down the food. Save the serious whole foods for about an hour after exercise so your body has time to ready itself to focus on digestion.

Remember to make your post-workout foods fun! That way, you’ll be more motivated to exercise and won’t be tempted to skip the important window of opportunity to restock those glycogen stores and help your muscles to start healing.†

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

†This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Why You Crave Sugar

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 2 December 2015

Why You Crave Sugar

Practically everybody knows that sugar is bad for our health, so why is it such a challenge to give it up? What is it that makes many of us crave sugar so relentlessly, and how can we conquer those cravings? A wealth of research suggests four considerations that may affect sugar cravings:

Stress
PMS or Menopause
Microbial imbalance in the gut
Thyroid health

These issues can all overlap, feed each other and make sugar cravings that much harder to overcome.

1. Stress

Someone who has a diet high in sugar typically has a higher risk of occasional sleep problems, erratic energy levels, and less concentration. This can make it harder to get through essential tasks and to manage emotions. This then leads to stress, which can prompt sugar cravings, and so on. It’s a cycle that’s all too easy to get stuck in.

According to a study published in the journal Appetite, 77% of women who had high levels of stress reported sugar cravings, compared to just 31% of women who were relaxed. The women who felt stressed also had significantly larger waists and higher levels of leptin, a hormone involved in appetite control.

For some people, finding new ways to relax or allotting for sufficient downtime in their schedule could be key to conquering their sugar cravings. Taking up a new sport, social activity or simply finding the time to take a bath may be just what you need to skip the sugar.

2. PMS or Menopause

PMS and menopause normal life stages can influence the activity of insulin, making cells more resistant to its effects and thereby increasing the likelihood of sugar cravings. Ensuring a healthy, balanced diet that is high in vitamins (especially B vitamins), minerals and healthy fats and protein from fiber-rich plant foods can support hormone levels and stable energy release, helping to combat sugar cravings. Taking a high-fiber supplement such as PGX* can also help with appetite control by slowing down the release of carbohydrates from food and maintaining a feeling of fullness for longer.

Anyone who is having a hard time cutting back on sugar and who is approaching menopause, or who experience alterations in appetite around the time of their period, may find it helpful to talk to a physician or qualified naturopathic doctor. Other signs of PMS or menopause can include mood swings, changes in libido, occasional lack of sleep and fatigue and hot flushes.

3. Gut Bacteria

A high-fiber diet is also a great way to feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut which, in turn, helps reduce the likelihood of yeast overgrowth. Anyone who has recently taken broad spectrum antibiotics or who is on long-term antibiotic therapy is at a higher risk of dysbiosis, a state of microbial imbalance in the gut, where the blanket eradication of bacteria (good and bad) can lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria and microbes, like Candida albicans, that cause yeast infections.

An imbalance in gut bacteria has been associated with altered energy metabolism and even alterations in neurotransmitter levels. The microbes in the gut produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin and communicate with the central nervous system through the vagus nerve. Researchers have found that a diet high in processed foods and simple carbohydrates can dramatically reduce biodiversity in the gut, which could have a significant impact on cognitive function and appetite.

A prebiotic diet that includes fibrous foods like asparagus, artichokes and chickpeas can help to feed good bacteria, while a high quality multistrain probiotic formula can replenish lost beneficial bacteria.

4. Thyroid Health

Thyroid health is another consideration where sugar cravings are concerned, and is best addressed with a qualified health practitioner.

In the meantime, it is important to ensure a good intake of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and lean protein from high fiber plant foods, in addition to cutting back on caffeine and sugar and ensuring you get adequate sleep. Eating sugary foods can increase stress on the body and lead to fluctuating energy levels, so avoid these foods and support your thyroid health.

You may find that simply increasing the level of fiber in your diet, staying hydrated, and getting a good night’s sleep make it much easier to keep those cravings at bay.

*Drink additional water (8 fl. oz.) after ingesting PGX®. If you are taking medications, take one hour prior to or two hours after taking PGX®.

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Fall Fitness: 4 Ways to Stay Motivated

Written by Leigh Matthews - Posted on 29 October 2015

Fall Fitness: 4 Ways to Stay Motivated

The short days and cool temperatures can make it rather tempting to cozy up inside with a good book and a cup of tea, but don’t let fall sabotage your fitness! If your motivation is flagging, check out the following ways to put a spring back in your step:

1. Set a Goal

One of the best ways to stay motivated is to focus on making a dream a reality. This means not only deciding what you want to achieve, but figuring out a realistic plan to accomplish that. Maybe you want to run a marathon or half-marathon, or even 5K or 10K next year. Perhaps you want to take on a challenging multi-day hike that was just outside your comfort zone this summer. Now’s the time to work on a training plan so you’re ready to achieve that dream next summer.

2. Sign up for a Class

If you find it hard to stay motivated by yourself, try going back to school! Check your local community center, gym or other fitness facility for fall classes and pick something fun and social. You’ll learn new techniques, make friends, and have a regular fitness routine to keep you motivated. How about salsa? Zumba? Yogalates? Or maybe hip-hop dance is more your speed….

3. Reward Yourself

If exercise isn’t itself a rewarding activity for you, why not engage in a little operant conditioning? Treat yourself to something fun after every fitness class, run or gym session and you’ll soon associate exercise with positive things. If you’re trying to watch your weight, avoid food-based rewards and try something activity oriented, like going to see a movie, browsing the bookstore, or going to an art gallery with friends.

4. Switch up your music

If running, rowing, cycling or otherwise exercising is starting to feel a little repetitive, try creating a new music playlist to boost your motivation. Eye of the Tiger, Coldplay, maybe even some Cotton Club era jazz or a little Taylor Swift could all help you, ahem, shake it off.

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