Coconut Milk Turmeric Tea (Anti-Inflammatory and Pain-Killing Tea)

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This sweet, coconut milk-tea is filling and delicious, but it's packing a much bigger (and healthier) punch. 

Turmeric is the queen of spice, and it is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties. I have been having some problems with my jaw lately, and after some research, I read that one of my best bets to add natural medicine (trust me, I'm already trying other things) was turmeric.

I read a few recipes for turmeric in hot water, turmeric in milk, etc. The hot water was a little bland and I didn't want to consume that much milk because I generally don't drink dairy. So, I spotted a can of coconut milk in my fridge that was waiting to be used in some chicken curry, and suddenly this recipe was born.

This tea is a warm and comforting drink in the morning or evening. If you have any issues with inflammation, arthritis, or pain, it may help alleviate some of those symptoms due to the turmeric. Additionally, because it contains ginger, it may help with stomach and digestion problems. Throw in that cinnamon and you're helping your body regulate your blood sugar.

Seems like a killer combo to me. Or... make that the opposite of killer (because it's so darn good for you).


Coconut Turmeric Tea
Ingredients:

• 1 can coconut milk
• 1/2 can of water
• 1 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder or ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 dash of black pepper (optional - does not significantly alter the flavor and is said to increase your body's absorption of the turmeric)
• 1 small piece of ginger or 1/4 tsp ginger powder
• 1/2 tbsp stevia or 1 tbsp honey

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a vitamix or blender and mix until smooth (optional - if you skip this step, simply whisk ingredients together and follow the remaining directions, then strain like tea at the end to filter out any pieces)
    
2. Pour into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer on very low heat for 20 minutes. You will need to watch this at the beginning, because it can foam up and overflow if you do not reduce the heat fast enough!
   

Notes: 

1. If you use a blender, be sure to clean it immediately after use. Turmeric has a bright yellow/orange color which can coat your blender. If you do forget to clean it and end up with a bright highlighter blender, I am told by Diane that you can run dish soap and vinegar through it a few times to remove it.

Skinny Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe (Save 200 Calories Per Drink!)

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Around 8:52 (approximately), I get the urge. The Starbucks urge. And so I make the trek downstairs for my delicious latte. Now that it's fall, I hear the same thing over and over again: "Grande Pumpkin Spiced Latte!"

And I cringe. I cringe, I tell you! Because I know the truth! The truth that just one Grande Pumpkin Spiced Latte has 310 calories in it and 50 carbohydrates! It's bordering on putting you into a coma. That, my friends, is why you're tired all fall.

Let's take a look at Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte vs my DIY Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte... Here is the comparison. Roll your mouse over the image to find out the winner (as though you need help!).

(Img Credit for Starbucks Drink)

Quite a big difference, isn't it? By taking 5 minutes to make your drink before leaving the house, you're going from 310 calories and ~49 carbs to 110 calories and ~15 carbs. This will leave you happier, healthier, and more full of energy. Oh, and you might notice your waistline shrinking. Side effect of healthy eating. :) So are you convinced? Good. Here's the recipe.

It's set for one serving, but keep in mind that you can make a large batch and refrigerate it for a week. Similarly, for those of you who are coffee drinkers instead of espresso drinkers, feel free to make a large batch and use in place of milk or coffee creamer! Healthier and delicious!

Recipe | Peanut Butter Banana Protein Shake

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For those of you who are fitness buffs like me, protein shakes are a must. Even if you're not hitting the gym on a regular basis, protein is still a must-have in your diet. Most studies suggest that the average adult needs between 40 to 55 grams of protein each day. 

The icing on the cake (or on the protein shake, I guess?) is that this recipe makes one mean yet delicious shake. I often crave it. Proof that it is delicious.

Picking your protein? There are many options. Look for a Whey protein. Whey protein is the same protein found in milk and is best for post-workout supplements because it is fast-absorbing and as a result can quickly get to work repairing your muscles.Try to get this in your system within 40 minutes of working out if you're using it as a post-workout shake!

 

Want the full recipe? Read on, my friends! :)