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    This Salmon Sandwich Is The Health-Boosting Desk Lunch You Need

    This salmon sandwich, which channels the Swedish way of eating, is here to boost your desk lunch – and your health. Fact: Sweden boasts low obesity and high life expectancy, which has a lot to do with lifestyle. They eat a lot of this type of salmon, a cured version called gravlax. And it’s got a ton of benefits: it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein and B vitamins and contains naturally healthy bacteria that fuel your immunity.

    Here’s a salmon sandwich to ensure you eat like a Swede and reap the benefits. Prepare all these, then layer on rye bread – or whichever loaf you fancy. You’ll be making the salmon, a cucumber salad and a mustard sauce. Layer them all on your loaf of choice and enjoy over and over again.

    Salmon Gravlax

    You’ll need to cure the salmon before placing it on your chosen bread. These easy steps take you there.

    Prep Time 2 days d

    Course Lunch, Main Course, Side DishCuisine French, Healthy, Sandwich

    Servings 8Calories 99 kcal

    400 g Norwegian salmon, deboned, skin on1 tbsp rock salt heaped1 tbsp sugar heaped0.5 lemon, zested0.5 tsp peppercorns white or black1 tbsp dill finely chopped
    Spread clingfilm on a work surface and place one piece of salmon on it, skin-side down.Spread the salt mixture (rest of the ingredients) on top and cover with the second piece of fish, skin-side up.Wrap tightly, place on a baking sheet, cover with foil and top with another baking sheet.Place tins on top to weigh it down and refrigerate for two days, turning every 12 hours. To serve, gently rinse off the salt mixture with water, pat the salmon dry with paper towel and slice it wafer thin. Arrange on thin slices of rye bread and top with cucumber salad.

    Keyword Easy Meals, fish, Salmon, Sandwich

    READ MORE: You Won’t Even Miss The Chicken In This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    Cucumber salad

    Pair this delicious cucumber salad with your salmon on your ‘wich.

    Prep Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes mins

    Course Appetizer, Salad, Side DishCuisine Healthy

    ½ English CucumberSalt2 tbsp White wine vinegar2 tbsp Water½ tsp sugarBlack pepper freshly ground1 tbsp dill finely chopped
    Slice the cucumber wafer-thin, spread out in a colander, sprinkle with salt and leave for 30 minutes.Rinse and drain.Add the remaining ingredients to the cucumber and toss well.

    Keyword cucumber salad

    READ MORE: 6 Health Benefits Of Kombucha You Should Know About, According To Dieticians

    Mustard Sauce

    This zingy mustard sauce complements the salty fish perfectly and you’ll want to use it in other dishes, too.

    Cook Time 20 minutes mins

    Course Side DishCuisine Healthy, Sandwich

    1 tbsp English mustard1 tbsp Lemon juice½ tsp White wine vinegar1 tbsp sugar¼ to ⅓ cup cream
    Add all the ingredients except the cream to the pot, heat over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar.Add the cream, bring to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced and thickened.

    Keyword mustard, sauce More

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    This Hot-Honey Broiled Pineapple Toast Recipe Will Crush Your Hunger

    Ready to start your day with a protein-packed punch that’s as quick to make as it is delicious? This hot-honey broiled pineapple toast recipe is about to become your morning ritual in just 10 minutes!

    Bursting with immune-boosting nutrients, this a.m. delight showcases the creamy richness of cottage cheese, providing a substantial protein boost for enhanced muscle health and overall well-being. The tropical sweetness of pineapple complements the toast, infusing it with a wealth of vitamins (vitamin C, manganese, zinc and B vitamins), antioxidants and digestive enzymes.

    READ MORE: 9 Of The Best Post-Workout Snacks That Actually Taste Amazing Too

    Quick And Easy Hot-Honey Broiled Pineapple Toast

    Hot-Honey Broiled Pineapple Toast

    The sweet heat of this toast topper will give your morning some zing!

    Total Time 10 minutes mins

    Course Breakfast, Snack

    Servings 1Calories 264 kcal

    1 tsp olive oil⅓ cup fresh pineapple chunks1 tsp hot honey, plus more for serving1 slice whole-grain bread, toasted3 tbsp cottage cheeseAleppo pepper, for sprinkling
    Place oven rack on highest level and heat broiler.Meanwhile, grease a small-rimmed baking sheet with oil. Place pineapple chunks on prepared baking sheet, drizzle with hot honey and toss to combine. Arrange in a single layer and broil for 2 minutes. Toss; broil until golden brown for additional 2 minutes.Top toast with cottage cheese and spoon pineapple on top. Drizzle with additional hot honey and sprinkle with Aleppo pepper if desired.

    Keyword breakfast, Fruits, Pineapple

    Per serving: 264 cal, 7.5 g fat (1.5 g sat), 10 g protein, 275 mg sodium, 41 g carb, 20 g sugars (12.5 g added sugars), 4 g fibre

    For more breakfast inspiration and meal planning, try these Low-Calorie Smoothie Recipes.

    This recipe originally appeared in the March 2023 issue of Women’s Health US. More

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    12 Restaurants In Cape Town And Joburg To Satisfy Your Vegan Cravings

    While it’s easy to be a vegetarian or vegan at home, it can be tricky eating out, even if it’s just meat that you are cutting from your diet. Luckily, more and more restaurants are catering to vegans and vegetarians. Plus, even if there isn’t anything specifically vegan on the menu, most establishments sub ingredients to make them vegan. To help you avoid the animal-product minefield that some restaurant menus can be, here’s a list of eateries in Cape Town and Joburg that you can put on your must-visit list.

    Vegan Restaurants in Cape Town

    Royale Eatery

    Burger lovers rejoice! Royale Eatery has a burger for every taste and dietary requirement, including veggie and vegan. They even make sure that the burger buns are free of animal products — many buns are brushed with egg white to make them shine. Just make sure to ask your waitress for a vegan bun. Bonus: recently they added vegan milkshakes to the menu. Don’t forget to book, this restaurant is always buzzing.

    Scheckter’s Raw

    Image by Scheckter’s Raw

    Located on Regent Road in Sea Point, Scheckter’s Raw’s philosophy is to offer natural, authentic, honest, plant-based, cruelty-free and nutrient-dense food. Go for breakfast and have the organic matcha flapjacks.

    READ MORE: 12 Of The Best Vegan Protein Powders You Can Buy Right Now

    Chefs Warehouse & Canteen

    Vegetarians and vegans have it good with Liam Tomlin’s Chefs Warehouse in Bree Street and the branch on Beau Constantia Wine Farm. The restaurants are famous for their Tapas For Two menus, which consist of eight courses that you share with a partner. If you go with a meat-eater, they will be able to choose four dishes from the menu and you will be given four veggie dishes. They are able to cater for vegetarians without prior notice. If you phone and give them at least three days’ notice, they will be able to create four vegan options for you. The restaurant at Beau Constantia has a vegetarian and vegan menu and does take reservations — make them in advance, the bookings fill up quickly!

    The Pot Luck Club

    Image by The Pot Luck Club

    The Pot Luck Club’s vegetarian menu is filled with delicious tapas-style dishes designed for sharing (trust me, though, you won’t want to). I recently went as a vegan and they were able to give me a list of veggie dishes that could be made vegan and there were more than enough for me to choose from (and I didn’t share!).  As with all restaurants, let them know your dietary requirements beforehand so that they can make sure that they can accommodate you. There’s one in Joburg, too.

    READ MORE: This Plant-Based Ploughman’s Sandwich Is A Vegan Dream

    Thali

    Another iteration from Liam Tomlin, Thali offers Indian tapas in Tomlin’s signature tapas-for-two style. There are both vegetarian and vegan menus and you can expect dishes like dahl and tempura veggies with tamarind and ginger dipping sauce. Go hungry because the portions are generous!

    Honest Chocolate Café

    Image by Honest Chocolate

    While chocolate and desserts are often oozing with dairy, this one caters for vegans. At the café, you’ll find a large number of vegan treats, including dairy-free ice cream, dairy-free milkshakes and of course, alternative milks for your Americano or latte. Their specialities are dairy-free milkshakes, our trademark ‘coconut dream’ drink, and the banana bread bunny chow. Vegan bliss on a plate. Yum.

    READ MORE: All The Vegan Kits, Meals And Guides To Help You Go Vegan

    Vegan Restaurants in Joburg

    Perron

    Image by Perron

    If you’re a sucker for Mexican food (like many WH team members) and in Joburg, then Perron is the place for you. The menu features tapas dishes as well as the usual suspects, including salads, burritos and nibbles (hi, nachos and guac!). They do meat and fish dishes, as well as vegetarian and a few vegan ones too, including the Bandera (pickled baby carrot and broccoli salad with radish, pistachios, avo, crispy shallots, spring onions, greens and agave-nectar dressing) and the Bowl of Beans (black beans with spicy aubergine, coriander, cauliflower rice, pumpkin seeds, fresh avo and fire-roasted tomato salsa). Word to the wise, if you like margaritas and beer, get The Rita (a bottle of Corona perched in a goblet of frozen margarita – it works and it’s delicious).

    BeetFresh

    Not a restaurant, we still thought this ought to be on the list, since there are few vegan meal delivery places around. BeetFresh aims to make vegan food as inclusive and fun as possible for everyone – even the sceptics. Each meal is made to order and is delivered to your door. Think: kale and butternut salad bowls, breakfast burritos and tofu scrambles, taking the thinking out of your everyday meal needs.

    READ MORE: You’ll Want To Put This Easy Homemade Vegan Basil Pesto On Everything

    The Fussy Vegan

    If you’re looking for the plant-based version of your favourite meal, this is the way to go. They’ve also been voted best vegan restaurant in Joburg for two years running. Meals to try include their Tofu Facon Sub, Seitan Strib BGR, Breakfast Burrito and Tofu Buddha Bowl.

    MODBURGER

    This expansive menu includes a host of vegan burgers to satisfy almost any craving. The burger patties are made from veg – not faux meat – so you’ll get all those nutrients that you need to keep going, while feeding your desire for a good, chunky burger.

    READ MORE: You Won’t Even Miss The Chicken In This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    The Green Room

    The Green Room is a family-style restaurant situated at the Pirates Sports Club in Greenside, Johannesburg. On the menu, you’ll find a variety of vegan meals, spanning sandwiches, spring rolls, pizza and more.

    Fresh Earth Café

    This expansive menu has everything your heart desires. Choose from Thai stir-fries, wraps, sandwiches and freshly squeezed veggie juice for that health kick. They’ve also got a food store selling staple goodies for when you’re inspired from your culinary experience and want to recreate some meals. More

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    How To Manage The Festive Sugar Spike This Christmas – For Adults And Kids

    Mince pies, Christmas pudding smothered in lashings of caramel sauce, endless amounts of chocolate and a personal favourite, good old Lindor chocolate truffles, who doesn’t love a bit (okay, a lot) of sugar at Christmas?

    The amount of sugar we consume during December can be shocking and what about the amount our children are eating? Trying to keep our blood sugar in some sort of balance at Christmas can be a minefield. So, Women’s Health spoke to a whole host of experts – some of the best nutritionists, GPs and PTs we know – to find out how you can best take care of your sugar levels this festive season while still enjoying a treat or two.

    How to manage the festive sugar spike

    “Whether you are a chocaholic like my husband Michael Mosley, who has been known at times to scoff more than a few slices of the children’s chocolate oranges, or simply have a sweet tooth, Christmas can be really challenging.”
    Dr Clare Bailey of The Fast 800

    Willpower is often overestimated and wanes rapidly when handed a chocolate cupcake after a long day. So, with all this temptation, how do we avoid abandoning ourselves to a full-on sugar fest?

    ‘Don’t forget that all these enticing confectionaries, especially chocolate and shop-bought mince pies are designed to be addictive – that combination of sugar and fat somehow manages to bypass those signals telling you that you have had enough… just one more slice of cake,’ Dr Clare added.

    So how can you indulge without having major sugar surges?

    “Unless you are very active, all those extra sugary calories won’t get burnt. Instead, as we slump on the sofa over Christmas, they will get stored as fat in all the wrong places, especially around the middle, affecting your metabolic health. Over time, raised sugar levels in your body cause inflammation, and this can lead to Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even depression.”

    Everything in moderation

    Of course, if this is just an occasional indulgence and you are fit, active and a healthy weight, you don’t need to be too concerned, Dr Clare adds.

    It’s completely expected to be surrounded by sugary treats around Christmas, rather than try to fight it, embrace the holiday season with open arms and don’t beat yourself up for enjoying the odd treat or two in moderation is the advice from MyFitnessPal’s Registered Dietician, Stephanie Nelson. The key word from the experts here though, is moderation.

    READ MORE: These Raspberry And Yoghurt Tartlets Make The Tastiest & Cutest Summer Dessert

    What are the best foods to balance blood sugar naturally?

    We grilled Dr Clare further on how we can have our cake and eat it this festive season. “My advice is, if you have Christmas nibbles beforehand, try to avoid the crisps and Doritos and instead go for dips – ideally with vegetable crudites, or eat the sausages, or cheese as these foods are rich in protein and fibre and will help reduce your appetite.”

    If you are prone to raised sugars you can still have a generously filled plate by adding plenty of turkey, fowl, meat or veggie equivalent, as the protein helps you feel full sooner, enjoy lots of red cabbage and mounds of green veg, but cut back on the starchy veg such as potatoes, parsnips as they rapidly convert to sugars. Remember that protein and natural fat beforehand tend to lessen the sugar surge.

    Don’t indulge on an empty stomach

    When it comes to the sweet stuff, don’t indulge on an empty stomach. If you eat protein-rich food beforehand the sugar spike will be flatter compared to eating it on an empty stomach.

    “To prevent sugar spikes, eat protein-dense foods first, followed by high glycaemic carbs and desserts,” says Rosalba Martone, Director of Education at Perricone MD.

    “If you’re dealing with a sugar spike that’s already happened, the best thing to do is go for a lovely Christmas walk and get some fresh air but any exercise will be effective. Try and get your body moving to help metabolise the sugar.”

    Top tips for balancing your sugar intake this Christmas

    1. Relax

    Easier said than done but try to get in the mindset that you are enjoying some Christmas spirit rather than doing something wrong. Between family events, shopping and cooking, there’s no need to add extra stress over whether or not you should be enjoying sweets, MyFitnessPal’s Stephanie advises.

    2. Prioritise regular meals

    Many people think they should restrict what they eat during the holidays since they are eating more sweets, but all this does is make you more likely to overeat. Instead, focus on meeting your most important needs.

    Outside of celebrations, focus on meals high in protein, fibre, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Stephanie added, “I use the MyFitnessPal app and I shift my focus from calories, fat and sugar, to meeting my needs for fibre, protein and unsaturated fats. This helps me keep a balance and a healthy mindset toward indulging a little over Christmas.”

    3. Hydrate and encourage your kids to hydrate as well

    This will help minimise the impact sugar has on your bloodstream and may lighten the sugar rush in kids so they don’t become as wild.

    4. Pair sweets with other foods

    The more food in your or your kids’ stomachs, the slower it’ll hit the bloodstream. Whenever possible, time the sweets so they come at the end of a meal.

    What is the best way to tackle sugar overload in children this Christmas?

    The number one thing experts told us when it came to managing sugar overload in both adults and children was to go for a walk and get the body moving.

    The second thing is managing when they eat and what they eat the sweet treat with. Health researcher and chemist, Dr Tim Bond from the Tea Advisory Panel (TAP) agrees, advising you to take children who have eaten too much sugar out for a walk or to the park for a game of soccer.

    An interesting report by TAP highlighted the importance of not depriving anyone of sugary treats as it can make them want them more, so keep this in mind.

    “Protein and natural fat beforehand tends to lessen the sugar surge.”

    Get creative in the kitchen

    It’s best to enjoy indulgent treats soon after lunch so they are full – the sugar rush is less and you are not having to restrain their indulgence (much!).

    “Try making a cake, muffins or biscuits which are sweetened by natural fruits such as bananas, dates, cranberries or blueberries,” Dr Clare advised.

    Swop to using whole grain flours, or ground almonds as a base, as these are gut-friendly and help support a healthy gut microbiome thanks to the extra fibre. Avoiding a sweet tooth makes it far easier and protects them for life.

    Homemade is always better than food that is mass-produced and packaged in a factory. Something to bear in mind about chocolates and biscuits bought in the shops-processed sweet treats contain few nutrients, are designed to be addictive and are likely to damage your gut microbiome, as well as your teeth.

    What exercise is best for children who’ve had too much sugar this Christmas?

    “The reality is, there aren’t specific ‘quick fix’ exercises for children and adults who’ve had too much sugar intake during the holidays. The general rule of thumb is to avoid processed sugars and find healthy alternatives and get your kids moving,” Martial artist and social activist Coach Chris Otokito told us, himself a dad of two.

    “We as parents have the blessed responsibility to discover and introduce our children to healthy options and choices. The best way of doing this is to lead by example. I’m personally a huge advocate of training myself and coaching my own bambinos, plus other warrior cubs in MMA (Mixed Martial Arts); specifically, Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing and Boxing. It helps teach kids discipline and let off steam.”

    Is it harmful to binge on sugar once in a while?

    “No, but it’s just going to wreak havoc with your sugar levels leaving you tired and possibly craving more sugar, so be aware of how often you do it,” Celebrity Trainer Monique Eastwood told us.

    “It’s perfectly normal and fine to have sweet treats occasionally. The best thing to do is have a proper healthy meal first and then finish with that treat. This way you may want less of the sugary stuff as you will not be substituting your meal with those unhealthy sugars. Just try and make sure it’s not an everyday occurrence.”

    Any tips for mums who have diabetic children or have diabetes themselves?

    We went straight to Dr Tim for this one who told us that Christmas can be a challenge for both diabetic children and adults. Children may be used to working out their insulin doses. Let them know what food to expect and don’t tempt them with any extras.

    “Bear in mind that it’s not just sugary foods and drinks that are a problem,” he added.

    “Keep all foods out of sight between meals. Look out for signs of high and low blood sugar, make sure your child tests as often as they are recommended to do so (maybe more often at Christmas) and get them to talk in private about any distress they may feel regarding diabetes with others present.”

    “For an adult with diabetes, create a food plan and stick to it. Make this plan when you are not hungry as hunger distorts what you want to eat. Tell your family about your plan so they don’t offer you anything outside of it. Factor in alcohol as it contains calories and can impact blood sugar levels. A small glass of wine with one meal a day over the festive period is likely to be fine (but check with the GP or dietitian).”

    READ MORE: How To Do The Festive Season Sober, Plus The 15 Best Alcohol-Free Drinks

    Look out for hidden sugars

    “Hidden sugars are sugars which have been labelled differently and are usually the words which end in “ose” For example, dextrose, maltose, fructose,” Curaprox’s Children’s Dental Ambassador, Theodora Little, advised.

    It is always important to read labels and check for these hidden sugars before giving them to babies and young children. Yoghurts should also be checked thoroughly. Fruit juices also contain natural sugars and should be limited to meal times only.

    Don’t deprive yourself

    We rate the advice from PCOS Dietician Jodie Relf, spokesperson for MyOva who told us that one of the most important things we can do at this time of year is to permit ourselves to eat the foods we love and enjoy.

    “Remind yourself that these foods are readily available throughout the year. One of the reasons so many of us struggle with this time of year is because of what happens next – the “New year, new you” diet pressure OR because we tell ourselves that once January starts, we’re going back to eating healthy and there will be no more chocolates. This narrative encourages us to eat ALL the chocolates and delicious foods now because come January there will be none. If we know we are allowed to have these foods after Christmas, there’s suddenly less of an urge to eat as many of them as you can now.”

    Fill up on fibre

    “Increase your fibre intake as this slows down carb digestion and sugar absorption. This applies to children as well as adults and think outside of the box to make colourful festive-themed snacks out of vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains,” advised Nurse Yasmin Shirazi of Remedi London.

    Check your cravings

    Check-in with hunger and satiety cues. Ask yourself if you’re reaching for those Christmas chocolates simply because they’re there, are you genuinely hungry or do you simply really fancy a bit of chocolate?

    If it’s just because they’re there, rather put them away and save them for when you really fancy them – you’ll enjoy them more. If you’re hungry, could you have something slightly more substantial and balanced to go alongside your chocolate? Remember that pairing carbohydrates (including sugars) with a protein or fat helps slow down the release of sugars and reduce the spike in blood glucose levels.

    Have healthy snacks ready

    Have nuts, fruits, wholegrain crackers, hummus, yoghurt (check for hidden sugars) and cubes of cheese available for when hunger strikes amidst the Christmas chaos.

    How should women with PCOS manage their blood sugar levels this Christmas?

    “Insulin resistance is thought to be present in up to 80% of those with PCOS and those with PCOS are at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes, so managing blood sugar levels is an important step in managing your PCOS symptoms,” PCOS Dietician Jodie Relf, added.

    In order to manage blood sugar levels, it’s important to make choices that improve insulin sensitivity. This includes the following:

    Remove the labels

    The first step is to remove the labels we give food and not to think of foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’. This narrative is not helpful and is what drives a lot of our behaviours around the foods we really enjoy.

    Give yourself the freedom to eat the foods you love alongside foods that nourish your body and energise you.

    Notice how foods make you feel

    After having a well-balanced breakfast, how do you feel for the rest of the day? Possibly more energised and more satisfied. Compared to grabbing a quick mince pie or a pastry – does this keep you satisfied for as long? Do you find yourself feeling a bit of a slump later in the day or snacking loads before lunchtime? Once we can identify how certain foods make us feel it makes it easier to make better decisions.

    Regular exercise

    Our muscles use glucose as a main fuel source, therefore if we increase our muscle mass and use our muscles this increases the amount of glucose we require and the efficiency of being able to metabolise glucose.

    Eating regularly 

    When we leave long gaps between our meals this can cause large fluctuations in our blood glucose levels. What’s more, our body can start to crave sugar because it’s the quickest way to get energy.

    READ MORE: The Healthy & Crunchy Watercress Salad That’s Perfect For Summer Lunches

    Include protein and healthy fats

    Try to include a source of protein and/or healthy fats with your meals and snacks – it takes the body longer to break down protein and fat which helps slow down the release of glucose present in that meal.

    Protein is also great for keeping us fuller for longer. As an example, having toast with jam for breakfast contains very little protein. If you have you add an egg or two and have jam on just one slice of toast, the addition of protein will help keep your blood sugar levels stable for a lot longer and keep you fuller for longer.

    Prioritise sleep and stress

    The festive season can be a stressful time, we’re also more likely to stay up a little later than usual due to all the socialising. Research has shown us that both sleep and stress can influence the types of foods we reach for and can have a negative impact on our insulin resistance. When we’re tired or stressed we’re more likely to reach for sugary, high-energy foods to keep us going.

    Supplements

    Inositol effectively improves insulin sensitivity and reduces levels of male hormones (testosterone), making it a great supplement for individuals with PCOS and enhancing ovulation.

    Don’t punish yourself if you feel it’s all gone wrong – this will lead to a binge restrict cycle. If you do find that you’ve overindulged get back to regular balanced meals as soon as you can.

    This article by Margarita Mitchel Pollock was originally published by Women’s Health UK. More

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    You Won’t Even Miss The Chicken In This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    Not only is this chickpea salad sandwich packed with protein and heart-healthy nutrients, it’s so delicious you won’t even notice that it’s not chicken. Chickpeas make the perfect chicken sub because they’re chock-a-block with minerals and nutrients that’ll keep your nervous system in shape. Plus, they have vitamins A, E and C to ward off colds and flu and keep your nails, eyes and skin glowing.

    READ MORE: 12 Of The Best Vegan Protein Powders You Can Buy Right Now

    Per serving: 472 cal, 12 g fat (2 g sat), 23 g protein, 905 mg sodium, 70 g carb, 11.5 g sugar (0 g added sugars), 16 g fibre

    Meal-Prep This Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    Chickpea Salad Sandwich

    Not only is this chickpea salad sandwich packed with protein and heart-healthy nutrients, it’s so delicious you won’t even notice that it’s not chicken.

    Course LunchCuisine Vegetarian

    Servings 4Calories 472 kcal

    2 tbsp fresh lemon juice2 tbsp mayonnaise1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce1 tbsp nutritional yeast2 cans chickpeas, rinsed2 stalks celery, thinly sliced1 scallion, sliced¼ cup pickled cucumber (about 7), finely chopped½ cup parsley, chopped8 slices whole-grain bread4 eaves green leaf lettuce1 Cucumber or 1/2 seedless cucumber, peeled into ribbons1 cup sprouts
    In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, mayonnaise, soy sauce and nutritional yeast. Add chickpeas and mash, leaving some larger chunks. Fold in celery, scallion, cornichons and parsley.Assemble sandwiches with bread, lettuce, chickpea mixture, cucumber and sprouts.

    Keyword Lunch

    This recipe was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com  More

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    Try This Tasty Snowy Angel Cake Recipe For Christmas

    Angel cake is made with egg whites alone – no yolk or butter – and is magically light so it’s perfect for summer and its pure, white snowiness is an ingenious nod to Christmas. Cook’s Tips: To cool, place the neck of a wine bottle through the ring of the cake tin, with the cake facing down – this helps the cake shrink away from the sides of the tin. Omit the filling and icing and simply serve slices as a base for strawberries and cream. More

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    12 Of The Best Vegan Protein Powders You Can Buy Right Now

    Raise your hand if you’re a vegan who’s sick of people asking you how you get enough protein. Same.

    Even though there are *plenty* of ways to get protein on a plant-based diet, vegan protein powder can help you meet your needs in a pinch.

    And, yes, dieticians say they’re legit. “Some misconceptions about vegan protein powders are that they don’t provide enough protein and that they won’t keep you full,” says Carolyn Brown, a dietitian.

    What’s in vegan protein powders?

    However, today’s vegan protein powders do both. First of all, many vegan powders contain 20 to 30 grams of protein per serving, which is totally on par with most popular whey protein powders, according to Brown. (Btw: If you’re wondering whether whey protein is vegan, the answer is a huge no. “Whey protein is one of the primary proteins found in dairy products,” says nutritionist Charlotte Martin.)

    Many plant-based powders also provide some fibre, which helps them keep you fuller, longer — and boosts their nutritional value, adds dietician Priya Khorana.

    Oh, and about that flavour issue. While vegan proteins long had a rep for tasting pretty revolting, times have changed. “Many newer proteins come in flavours like salted caramel, coconut, or even chai,” says dietician Andy Bellatti. These days, popular powders are made from hemp, brown rice, or pea protein. Not just soy.

    When hunting for vegan protein powder, consider these three major factors: protein content, types of proteins used and sweeteners. First, Martin recommends looking for a powder that contains at least 15 to 20 grams of protein per serving.

    READ MORE: Here’s Another Reason You Should Probably Stick To Your Plant-Based Diet

    Getting the most from your vegan protein powders

    Then, since most plant-based protein sources are “incomplete” (meaning they don’t contain all of — or enough of — all nine essential amino acids) on their own, opt for a protein powder made out of multiple sources, Martin says. Combining different proteins ensures your powder provides all of the aminos your body needs.

    Finally, limit any added sugar to five grams per serving, max. “I steer clear of artificial sweeteners since some research suggests they may have negative effects on metabolism, gut bacteria and appetite,” says Martin. Instead, opt for natural, zero-calorie sweeteners (like stevia).

    Whether you’re spiking your smoothies, iced coffee, or pancake mix, today’s vegan protein powders are better than ever — and totally worth your while, whether you’re a carnivore or not.

    The Top Vegan Protein Powders

    My Wellness Super Vegan Protein

    This protein combines hemp and pea protein for a rich source of essential and non-essential amino acids. They’re also bioavailable and easily digestible, a big win. It also has high levels of L-isoleucine, L-valine, L-arginine and L-Leucine, which are beneficial after a strenuous workout.

    Go Good Plant Protein Isolate

    Here, you’ll find no allergens like soya or dairy. Just the good stuff. Based on peas blended with organic vanilla beans for flavour, you’ll find this nutrient-packed vegan protein powder works wonders. Protein also boosts your immunity, FYI. A winner.

    Nutritech Vegan Pea Protein Isolate

    Nutritech Vegan Pea Protein Isolate contains 25g of naturally sourced protein per serving to increase your protein intake and further enhance your diet and lifestyle. Not only is pea protein isolate gluten, dairy and lactose-free, but it also has excellent bioavailability properties.

    READ MORE: How To Add More Vegetables To Your Diet, Even If You’re Busy

    Wazoogles Protein Blend

    This protein powder is delicious and stands up with its additions of essential vitamins and minerals. Loaded with the purest, most ethically sourced, nutrient-dense superfoods around, rich in plant-based protein, nutrients, living enzymes, vitamins and vital nutrients, without any fillers, artificial colours or flavourants to spoil it.

    Soaring Free Superfoods Protein Superfood Mix

    This vegan protein powder blend, with its short ingredient list, takes out fillers and additives, leaving you with the essential stuff. The entirely organic plant-sourced protein mix that contains natural sources of protein, antioxidants, fibre & omega 3. You can expect a chocolatey flavour from raw African Cacao powder.

    NPL Go Green Vegan Protein

    Get a full profile of amino acids and proteins from this blend. It tastes good, mixes easily and helps you hit those protein goals in one easy sip.

    READ MORE: Magnesium Is Brilliant For Sleep And Cramps – Here’s How To Get Enough Of It

    Biogen Plant-Based Protein

    Rice and pea protein is free from gluten, dairy, and lactose making it easily digestible, especially with the added bamboo fibre, an excellent ingredient for fibre enrichment. Try it in smoothies, making vegan, gluten-free treats like protein date balls and more.

    Phyto Pro Thrive Protein Shake

    Great taste? Check. Easy to digest? Check! Clean protein? Check! This concentrated pea protein isolate is a 100% plant-based protein powder with the addition of raw vanilla bean powder and sweetened with xylitol and stevia for a protein shake so tasty it doesn’t need anything else.

    Harvest Table Vegan Protein Powder

    Made from a blend of organic pea and brown rice proteins, this blend includes a proprietary blend from Harvest Table of CollaV, a natural, plant-based mix. CollaV is also a source of bamboo silica, which helps your bod make collagen. And, the Harvest Table’s vegan protein blend is 81% protein and every serving contains the same quantity of glycine and proline (the amino acids that make collagen so powerful) as an animal-based collagen.

    READ MORE: What To Eat Before A Morning Workout, According To Nutritionists

    Noa & Co Replenishing Protein Powder

    This is a plant-based supplement that contains a potent probiotic along with other extras. It is carefully blended with brown rice, pea and hemp which are three plant superstars that contain more optimal amino acids.

    WILD Natural Beauty Vegan Protein

    Made with low heat to maximise the bioavailability of the pea protein, this mix is GMO-free, easy to digest and delicious, per devotees. Get 25g of protein per serving. It’s also supercharged with an exceptional amino acid profile of 4g IBCAAs per single serving.

    USN BlueLab 100% Plant Protein

    Get a high-protein formula that works with USN’s vegan protein powder. This formula is free from sugar, dairy, gluten, soy, and artificial flavourants and colourants.

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    The Healthy & Crunchy Watercress Salad That’s Perfect For Summer Lunches

    Looking for a new favourite healthy salad recipe for the summer? You’ve come to the right place. This watercress salad (with flavour-packed homemade dressing) is fresh, easy-to-make and uber crunchy thanks to the assortment of nuts and seeds.

    READ MORE: Exactly How To Make A Healthy Pizza With 6 Delish Topping Variations

    The best part? It’s easily customisable. Don’t add the cheese if you are vegan or dairy-free. Alternatively, you can substitute with your favourite vegan cheese (Woolworths has a large range).

    Either way, you’ll use this healthy salad recipe time and time again, whether it’s for al fresco dinners with friends or when you’re meal prepping to help you reach those goals.

    READ MORE: This Tinned Tuna Nicoise Salad Is The Ultimate Quick Dinner Or Work Lunch

    Herby Watecress Salad with Crunchy Nuts & Seeds

    This watercress salad with flavour-packed homemade dressing is fresh, easy-to-make and uber crunchy thanks to the assortment of nuts and seeds. Best part? It’s easily customisable. Don’t add the cheese if you are vegan or dairy-free.

    Prep Time 10 minutes mins

    Course SaladCuisine Healthy

    Servings 6 people

    2 Tbsp Flaked almonds2 Tbsp Pumpkin seeds2 Tbsp Sunflower seeds1 Tbsp Sesame seeds3 Handfuls Watercress1 Handful Coriander1 Handful Basil50 g Ricotta or chevin (optional)Salt and pepperFor The Dressing:1 tsp Mustard1 tsp HoneyJuice and zest of half a lemon2 Tbsp Extra-virgin olive oilPinch chilli flakes
    Toast the seeds in a large dry pan until you hear a popping noise and the sesame seeds and almond flakes turn slightly golden.Toss the leaves together in a large bowl. Next, add the seeds.Whisk the dressing ingredients together and pour into the bowl. Then toss the leaves to coat.Plate the dressed leaves and seeds on a large platter before dotting small pieces of cheese among the leaves. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

    Keyword Easy Meals, healthy, Healthy Recipes, vegetarian More