Many of you have already heard that raw, organic, and unfiltered apple cider vinegar can assist in weight loss and overall well-being. The apple cider vinegar diet is probiotic, and has many additional health benefits. Here we explore how the apple cider vinegar diet as part of a healthy lifestyle can help you lose weight while at the same time, acting as a tonic for the body.

Although many fad diets that create rapid weight loss have come and gone over the years, it is encouraging to note that the apple cider vinegar diet leads to gradual weight loss. It would be nice if we could shed pounds quickly and never see them again, but experience has shown that weight that leaves easily comes back easily.

The Apple Cider Vinegar Diet

If you lose weight quickly, your body will oblige you by kicking in mechanisms to make it more likely this weight will slip back on in no time. But if you can be patient and do not expect instant results, your fat cells will adjust to their new size more willingly and not insist on contributing on your waistline. The apple cider vinegar diet is perfect for this.

Apple Cider Vinegar is best taken before meals

When you give it some thought, it makes good sense that drinking apple cider vinegar before meals would help with weight loss. Apples are a good source of pectin, and including pectin in your diet can make you feel fuller and more satisfied. Since apple cider vinegar contains the same amount of pectin as apples (one apple has about 1.5 grams pectin), it can suppress your appetite in a similar way.

There is also good science behind why apple cider vinegar would encourage weight loss even more effectively than eating raw apples. In general, acids help with the digestion of protein, the building blocks for some of our hormones, especially growth hormone.

We've seen how this hormone is instrumental in breaking down fat cells. By increasing the acid present in your stomach before a meal, you'll ensure the chances for thorough digestion and increase the availability of protein for hormone synthesis.

Apple Cider Vinegar assists protein utilization

Greater protein utilization helps the formation of growth hormone, the substance that keeps the body's metabolism going while we're at rest. This is why it is important to drink apple cider vinegar before or with your evening meal.

Apple Cider Vinegar stimulates digestion

Because apple cider vinegar stimulates digestion, it also reduces the amount of time that fats remains in the digestive tract. It's important that your body gets a chance to remove key nutrients from your food, and conditions that contribute to diarrhea can be life-threatening.

At the same time, it can be unhealthful to have food remain in the intestines for too long. If fats present longer than necessary during digestion, more fats will be absorbed.

Apple cider vinegar works at the very beginning of the digestive process to stimulate your appetite and increase your interest in food. Normally, you wouldn't think of this as being the direction you want to go in if you're trying to lose weight. But apple cider vinegar works positively to support your efforts by increasing your interest in whole foods.

Apple Cider Vinegar assists in utilization of iron

ACV can improve the body's utilization of iron, a nutrient that acts like fire-starter for fuel. Iron is a key component in substances that carry oxygen to the cells and hold it there. It's the ability of apple cider vinegar to increase iron utilization and energy consumption in the body that makes it such a supportive food for weight loss.

Apple Cider Vinegar is great source of potassium

Apples are a great source of potassium, and likewise, apple cider vinegar, taken on a regular basis, will contribute the potassium you need to help balance the sodium in your diet. In fact, try replacing salt in your diet with apple cider vinegar. Use it to top foods you might be tempted to salt, such as vegetables or protein foods. A little vinegar over a plate of beans is a regional favorite in many parts of America.

Recommendation for losing weight with the apple cider vinegar diet:

Here is my recommendation for using the apple cider vinegar diet to lose weight, based on the work of Dr. Jarvis and others:

• 1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar + 8 ounces water *
• Drink before meals 3 times a day

* Though this author recommends 1 to 2 teaspoons of ACV per cup of water, other sources call for 1 tablespoon per cup of water or other liquid, and that seems to be what VegKitchen readers have found most effective.

Excerpted from Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss & Good Health* by Cynthia Holzapfel (Book Publishing Co.), reprinted by permission.

Read Next: Apple Cider Vinegar Drink Recipes, 23 Research-Backed Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Are you searching for a way to give your immune system a boost? How about a drink that can relieve stress? Well, if you're holding a cup of lemon ginger tea in your hand, then you're on the right track!

Sweet, spicy and one of the best drinks to have during the winter, this tea is power-packed with some incredible health and body care benefits too!

And here's how to make your own Fresh Ginger-Lemon Tea (which is actually an infusion, not really "tea.")

Let's see how:

It Boosts Your Immune System: On top of the list of benefits of lemon ginger tea is its ability to strengthen your immunity. This is due to the presence of high levels of anti-oxidants in ginger. Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C which can heal wounds and preserve the strength of bones and teeth.

In the onset of cold and flu, the tea can act as an effective antibiotic. The bioflavonoids that lemons contain help to prevent cancer cells from growing and spreading.

The anti-oxidants in the lemons help in reducing inflammation and arthritis symptoms. The powerful antioxidants can reduce free radicals in the body. Ginger also increases blood circulation in the body that is vital for optimum health.

It Brings Instant Relief From Nausea and Indigestion: Vomiting and nausea usually occur as symptoms of a body disorder. Lemon ginger tea provides the best relief mechanism.

Moreover, if you have a motion sickness tendency, you can drink a cup of this tea prior to travel to prevent nausea.

It can also help cure the vomiting related to chemotherapy and pregnancy, which is a relief during that period. It eases the pain and uneasiness of an upset stomach.

The ginger and lemon in the tea lowers the chances of heartburn and indigestion. It causes the food to be better absorbed by the body and prevents belching and bloating after eating too much. It improves your appetite as well!

It Lowers The Effects Of Diabetes: New research has thrown light upon the fact that drinking this tea on a daily basis can reduce kidney damage that occurs due to the effects of diabetes.

The high levels of zinc found in ginger play a prime role in the production and secretion of insulin. It is the insulin that controls the blood sugar levels and keeps diabetes in check.

Other harmful effects of diabetes like blood pressure, heart problems and so on can be countered by the anti-oxidants present in the drink.

It Is Your One-Stop-Drink To Perfect Skin And Great Hair: As mentioned above, the tea is rich in anti-oxidants and vitamins which are beneficial for perfect skin, hair and health. The beverage helps in improving your digestion and guides you towards smooth and flawless skin.

The antibacterial and antiseptic properties protect your skin from infections. For strong and beautiful hair, the tea provides you a natural aid. Vitamin A and C are recommended in plenty for those with hair issues, as they combat the production of DHT in the scalp that in turn triggers hair growth.

A vitamin and anti-oxidant rich drink like lemon ginger tea will help you overcome hair problems in an absolute natural and simple way.

It Is The Apt Drink For Weight Loss: High blood sugar levels trigger cravings for carbohydrates and fatty foods. Ginger helps to normalize these sugar levels which otherwise can affect your ability to lose weight or eat healthy food. Ginger also improves fat absorption and prevents it from accumulating in the body.

Both ginger and lemon have anti-inflammatory properties that prevent inflammations and enhance the activity of the liver that helps in shedding those extra pounds.

The smell of lemons reduces stress causing an increase in metabolism and proper organ function that can help in weight loss.

How do we prepare lemon ginger tea?

Using green tea as a base, finely chop the ginger root and infuse it boiling water for twenty minutes. This helps in transferring the active ingredients into the liquid.

Adding two tablespoons of lemon juice and agave or stevia (or honey if it doesn't need to be vegan) into the mix helps in both sweetening the tea as well as countering the spicy effects of the ginger.

It can be served either hot or cold as the revitalizing effects are the same.

Lemon ginger tea can be very refreshing to drink with its medicine like qualities.

Moreover, a few recent studies suggest that it can help to stop blood clotting and lower cholesterol levels. This can prevent cardio-vascular diseases and strokes from taking place.

If you feel tense or worn out, the drink can also be an effective stress reliever. The strong aroma, spicy and refreshing taste and calming effects provide you relief and relaxation of your body and mind.

Try it out today and feel healthy and energetic!

And if you love this lemon ginger tea, be sure to check out these other tasty and healthy beverages:

• Apple Cider Vinegar & Ginger Tonic
• Apple Cider Ginger Ale
• Dragonfruit Lemonade

Recipe

References:

• http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/food/article-2205998/Stress-Ginger-tea-answer.html
• http://www.momjunction.com/articles/unexpected-benefits-of-eating-ginger-during-pregnancy_0082719/
• http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Honey-Lemon-Ginger-Tea
• http://nutritionfacts.org/video/better-than-green-tea/

Are you looking for some healthy vegan milk alternatives that can please your taste buds at the same time? Well, the market is flooded with dozens of non-dairy milk beverages and quite a few of them are worth trying. Sounds interesting? Read on below to learn more:

Why Vegan Milk is a Good Choice for You?

No matter whether you are a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, picking non-dairy milk alternatives over the regular ones is always beneficial for you. Let us dig a bit deeper and find out why one should go for vegan milk choices:

1. Being free of lactose, it is non-allergenic. So, if you are allergic to cow milk, going vegan will help you a lot.
2. If you have lactose intolerance, the chances are big that you experience acid reflux, abdominal gas, bloating, etc. frequently. Dairy-free milk substitutes can eliminate these symptoms fast and easily.
3. Acne and regular milk always go hand in hand. The risk becomes even greater in case of skimmed milk. But when you replace your dairy consumption with the vegan alternatives, you get rid of it.
4. When the milk is produced from a cow non-organically, it gets contaminated by the antibiotics and hormones injected into the animal's body. The unnatural production process of milk also causes mastitis to cows, which results into the presence of pus in milk. All these lead to hormonal imbalances and various other ailments in human beings. However, when you opt for non-dairy milk, you can always stay away from these worries.
5. Most of the vegan milk alternatives can be made easily, quickly and economically at home and you can even add lots of flavor to it.

8 Best Vegan Milk Alternatives You Should Try

1. Soy Milk

It is prepared by pounding and processing dried soybeans with water. You can find a variety of flavors including light, sweet, full-cream, vanilla, chocolate, etc. in the market. The density and creaminess of the milk may also vary greatly and it tastes even better than regular milk.

Qualities:

• The protein content is almost similar to cow milk (around 8 grams a cup).
• High in dietary fiber, calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin D, plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, antioxidants, phytoestrogen, manganese, selenium, phosphorus, choline, folate, etc.
• Very low in saturated fats and sugar
• Lactose and cholesterol-free
• Prevents prostate cancer, osteoporosis, cholesterol transportation, etc.
• Strengthens blood vessels
• Eases menopausal symptoms

2. Oat Milk

This nutritious milk is made by pre-soaking the grains of oatmeal in water and straining the concotion carefully. It is sweet in taste and thick in consistency. A variety of flavor is available in the market and you are free to pick your favorite one.

Qualities:

• Fulfills almost 35% of our daily requirements of calcium
• Works as a 'protein powerhouse'
• Fat and sugar content is very low.
• Contains no cholesterol or saturated fats
• Rich in soluble fibers, iron, vitamin A, vitamin D, folate, phytochemicals, etc.
• Prevents a number of cancers
• Improves cardiovascular health
• Promotes digestion and prevents constipation
• Increases 'good cholesterol' level and reduces 'bad cholesterol' level
• Makes the immune system stronger
• Keeps skin clean and acne-free

3. Rice Milk

This thin and naturally sweetened milk substitute is prepared from brown rice grains and is considered as extremely healthy. You can also avail its vanilla-flavored version from your local supermarket.

Qualities:

• Has perfect proportions of protein and carbohydrate
• Great source of antioxidants, B-vitamins, vitamin D, calcium, etc.
• Gluten-free milk
• No saturated fat and cholesterol
• Very inexpensive

4. Almond Milk

This wonderfully tasty vegan milk is made by pulverizing soaked almonds thoroughly. The sweet and nutty flavor and high nutrition make it highly popular among the lovers of dairy-free milk substitutes.

Qualities:

• Fulfills 30% of our daily requirements of calcium
• Contains 25% of our daily requirements of vitamin D
• Very low in calories (one servings offers only 30 calories)
• Enriched with proteins, omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, dietary fibers, vitamin E, iron, zinc, magnesium, etc.
• No saturated fats, cholesterol and lactose
• Gives immunity a boost
• Makes teeth and bones stronger
• Helps in healthy digestion
• Perks up the skin texture by offering anti-aging benefits
• Encourages weight loss

5. Coconut Milk

It is another creamy, flavorful and nourishing alternative to regular milk, which is basically prepared by grating the ‘meaty’ flesh of ripe coconuts as well as extracting the concoction. You can get both ‘thick’ and ‘thin’ coconut milk for using as cooking ingredients and both of them are super tasty.

Qualities:

• High in dietary fibers, vitamin B-12, vitamin D, iron, calcium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, selenium, etc.
• Contains very less amount of sugar
• No fructose
• Helps in controlling blood sugar
• Strengthens both bones and blood vessels
• Prevents arthritis and osteoporosis
• Gives a feeling of fullness, thereby helping in weight loss

6. Cashew Milk

Cashew milk has a natural vanilla flavor and it is made of a smooth, rich blend of water and cashew nuts. It is an amazingly tasty, absolutely creamy and highly satisfying milk beverage.

Qualities:

• Amazing source of proteins, B-vitamins, calcium, magnesium, copper, etc.
• Very low fat content
• Free of cholesterol
• Increases the production of RBCs (Red Blood Corpuscles)
• Promotes healthy metabolism
• Helps in tissue and bone formations
• Keeps cholesterol levels under control
• Enhances cardiovascular health

7. Hazelnut Milk

Being derived from tasty and savory hazelnut, this milk tastes heavenly. It also has a nutty flavor, which is very much liked by people. Like all other vegan mil substitutes, it also has high nutrition value.

Qualities:

• High in healthy carbohydrates, vitamin B-12, vitamin D and calcium
• No saturated fats, lactose and cholesterol
• Takes care of bones and teeth
• Keeps you filled up for a long time

8. Hemp Milk

It is prepared from the seeds of hemp tree and is regarded as one of the healthiest choices for dairy-free milk. It is widely known for its ‘earthy’ taste and nutty flavor.

Qualities:

• Contains as much as 10 essential amino acids
• Has a perfect omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids ratio
• Loaded with soluble fibers, proteins, vitamin B1, vitamin B5, calcium, potassium,
• Aids in muscle building
• Provides immense energy

3 Simple and Easy Homemade Vegan Milk Recipes

What if you need a good vegan milk alternative for cooking or drinking but do not wish to purchase commercial one? Just DIY! We are giving you 3 easy, simple and fast vegan milk recipes to try at home:

(1) DIY: Homemade Almond Milk Recipe

 

• Best-quality raw almonds - 1 cup (organic is even better)
• Sea salt - 1 teaspoon
• Distilled water - 2 to 4 cups (as per your preference)

Method:

1. Take the almonds in a glass bowl and pour distilled water into it to soak them completely. Add sea salt to the water and cover the bowl with a lid. Keep it aside for nearly 12 hours.
2. Rinse the swelled up almonds well under running water to get rid of all sorts of enzyme inhibitors.
3. Now, put the almonds in a blender and pour rest of the distilled water into it. Blend thoroughly to mash all the nuts.
4. Strain it or not, your creamy almond milk is absolutely ready!

(2) DIY: Homemade Oat Milk Recipe

Ingredients:

• Oats - 1 cup
• Agave nectar or maple syrup - 1 to 2 tablespoons (as required for sweetness)
• Sea salt - (¼) teaspoon
• Distilled water - 3 cups

Method:

1. Rinse the oats well and drain them perfectly before placing them in a bowl.
2. Add water to it and cover with a lid. Let the oats soak for 8 to 10 hours so that they get softer as well as easier to process.
3. Once again, rinse the oats well and remove the oat slime completely.
4. Shift them to a blender and pour distilled water into it. Blend for some time and sieve it.
5. Press the semi-pulverized oats with the backside of a spoon in order to take the maximum milk out of it.
6. Add agave or syrup and sea salt to the concoction and your homemade oat ilk is here!

(3) DIY: Homemade Brown Rice Milk Recipe

Ingredients:

• Sea salt - 1 teaspoon
• Distilled water - 2 cups

Method:

1. Clean and wash brown rice properly and soak it in water for a couple of hours.
2. Cook it as usual.
3. Now, place the cooked brown rice inside a blender jar. Also, add sea salt and distilled water to it.
4. Blend until a smooth, thick milk is formed. Voila!

So, are you ready to switch to vegan milk alternatives?

References
http://vegetarian.about.com/od/vegetarianvegan101/f/MilkSubstitutes.htm
http://www.peta2.com/lifestyle/vegan-milk-101/
http://www.beautyglimpse.com/almond-milk-vs-regular-milk-which-is-healthier/

Authors Bio
Soni likes to share her knowledge with the world helping others to live a healthier life. She also loves to share her express her views and explore anything and everything that can feed her pen.

Here's a look at the benefits of eating nuts regularly, and the best nuts to eat. If you're going for a more balanced diet, trying to lower your cholesterol, and even want to lose weight, be sure to include nuts in your daily fare.

Just a single handful can have a powerful, positive impact on your diet. Nuts are high in fiber, protein, and - most important - good fats. The fiber and protein will leave you feeling full and can help curb cravings.

People who eat nuts daily tend to feel satiated and, as a result, eat fewer calories throughout the day. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats will help regulate cholesterol, reduce your risk of cancer, and deter type 2 diabetes. They even help keep skin hydrated and plump - meaning you will look younger.

Types of Nuts and Their Benefits

Almonds

Almonds are packed with vitamin E, healthy fats, and fiber. They are known for their ability to support heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote healthy brain function. The combination of magnesium and riboflavin in almonds contributes to increased energy production and reduced fatigue. Check out these delicious recipes featuring almonds and almond butter!

Walnuts

Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and function. Their polyphenol content provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of walnuts has been linked to improved cognitive function, reduced risk of heart disease, and enhanced sperm quality in men.

Walnuts are delicious tossed over a salad like this one, baked into sweet treats like these carrot walnut muffins, or as an ingredient in energy balls.

Cashews

Cashews are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and minerals like copper and magnesium. They support healthy bones and nerve function, aid in weight management due to their satiating effect, and contribute to a healthy heart by reducing bad cholesterol levels.

I love cashew cream as a dairy replacement, or try making these cashew fat bombs for a healthy treat!

Pistachios

Pistachios are low in calories and high in protein, making them an excellent snack choice for weight management. Rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, pistachios support eye health and may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Roasting pistachios is my favorite way to enjoy them. Or get creative with this pistachio pesto sauce.

Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts are known for their high selenium content, which plays a crucial role in antioxidant defense and thyroid function. Selenium also supports immune health, reproductive health, and DNA synthesis. Incorporating a few brazil nuts into your diet can provide your daily recommended intake of this essential mineral. Try tossing Brazil nuts in this sweet and spicy glaze.

Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are a great source of vitamin E, healthy fats, and antioxidants. They contribute to heart health, aid in weight management, and provide neuroprotective benefits. The antioxidants in hazelnuts help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Use them to make your own vegan nutella!

Nutritional Benefits of Nuts

Nuts are rich in a variety of essential nutrients that support overall well-being. They provide an excellent source of plant-based proteins, healthy fats, vitamins (such as vitamin E and B vitamins), minerals (such as magnesium, potassium, and selenium), and dietary fiber. Incorporating a variety of nuts into your daily diet can significantly contribute to meeting your nutritional requirements.

Heart Health

Regular consumption of nuts has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. The abundance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in nuts, including omega-3 fatty acids, helps to increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) while reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) levels. This cholesterol-balancing effect of nuts aids in maintaining cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

Weight Management

Contrary to popular belief, including nuts in your diet can actually aid in weight management. Despite their calorie density, nuts have been associated with increased satiety and reduced appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake overall. The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber in nuts helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking or overeating.

Brain Health

Nuts, especially walnuts, are known for their brain-boosting properties. Rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E, nuts play a vital role in maintaining cognitive function and preventing age-related decline. These nutrients contribute to improved memory, enhanced focus, and overall brain health. Incorporating a handful of nuts into your daily routine can support optimal brain function.

Diabetes Management

Nuts have shown great potential in managing diabetes. With their low glycemic index, they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. The healthy fats, protein, and fiber content in nuts help regulate blood sugar and insulin levels. Additionally, the magnesium content in nuts has been associated with improved insulin sensitivity. Including nuts as part of a balanced diet can assist in better diabetes management.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Many nuts, such as almonds and pistachios, possess anti-inflammatory properties due to their rich content of antioxidants and polyphenols. Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. By incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like nuts, you can help combat inflammation, support a healthy immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

The infographics were provided by eReplacementParts.com

More Vegan Eating Resources

If you found this guide to nuts helpful, check out these other plant based tips and recipes:

• Best Vegan Protein Sources
• 30 High Protein Vegan Snacks
• 34 High Fiber Vegan Foods