Edita Kaye on Foods Writers Should Avoid

On April 11, 2025

Feeling sluggish? Got writer’s block? It could be that snack you just had! As writers we all know the importance of fueling our minds, but some foods can leave us feeling sluggish or distracted. Here’s a guide to what to avoid for better focus and creativity.

1. Sugary Snacks: A Quick Rush, Then a Crash

It’s tempting to reach for that donut or sugary granola bar during writing sessions, but these treats can derail your focus. Foods high in refined sugars lead to a sharp rise in blood sugar, followed by a rapid crash that leaves you feeling tired and foggy. A study published in The

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that high sugar intake can impair cognitive function and lead to feelings of fatigue (Jensen, 2020). Writers need steady energy, not quick spikes that can hinder creativity and focus.

2. White Bread and Pasta: The Carb Coma Culprit

Refined carbs, like white bread and pasta, can lead to a sluggish mind. These foods cause your blood sugar to rise and fall quickly, leading to a mid-afternoon energy dip. The Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming refined carbohydrates could affect memory and mood stability (Slater, 2019). Writers often need sustained energy for deep thinking, and these carbs tend to deliver just the opposite.

3. Caffeine Overload: The Jitters and Anxiety Trap

While a cup of coffee can be a good pick-me-up for most writers, too much caffeine can send your nervous system into overdrive. High doses of caffeine increase cortisol levels, leading to anxiety and jitteriness. According to the Journal of Psychopharmacology, caffeine in excess can impair cognitive function and disrupt focus (Smith, 2018). If you find yourself more anxious than inspired, it’s time to cut back.

4. Fried Foods: Heavy on the Body, Heavy on the Brain

Fried foods like French fries or battered chicken wings can weigh you down. These foods are

high in unhealthy fats and can make you feel lethargic. A study in Frontiers in Nutrition found that diets high in trans fats and fried foods are linked to poor brain health, including cognitive decline (Walker, 2020). For writers, this could mean a decrease in mental clarity and creativity during writing marathons.

5. Processed Meats: The Focus Fader

Salty snacks like bacon, sausages, and deli meats are rich in saturated fats and sodium, which can negatively impact brain function. Research published in Neurobiology of Aging shows that diets high in processed meats may lead to memory issues and cognitive decline over time (Vega, 2019). Writers should avoid these foods, as they can contribute to brain fog and affect productivity.

Here are Some High-Energy Power Alternatives:

1. Nuts and Seeds: Packed with healthy fats and protein, they provide long-lasting energy and support brain function.

2. Berries: Loaded with antioxidants, berries help improve cognitive function and keep the mind sharp.

3. Oats: A slow-digesting carb that provides sustained energy without the crash, making it perfect for extended writing sessions.

4. Dark Chocolate: A moderate amount boosts cognitive function and can enhance focus, thanks to its flavonoids.

5. Leafy Greens: Rich in iron and folate, these help with focus and cognitive performance.

Fuel your creativity the right way—by avoiding energy-draining foods and opting for brain boosting power snacks! Your writing sessions will thank you.

Nutrient-Packed Foods for Writers - Edita Kaye

Write Smart: Boost Your Productivity and Creativity with These 5 Nutrient-Packed Foods

By Edita Kaye

On March 24, 2023

In Food

As a writer, maintaining focus and sustaining energy levels throughout the day can be challenging. However, making small changes to your diet can have a significant impact on your productivity and overall well-being. Consuming a balanced diet that includes foods rich in complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals can help you stay focused, alert, and energized. In this list, we’ve compiled five foods that writers can incorporate into their diet to help them maintain their energy and focus levels and reduce mental fatigue

Here are five foods that writers can consume to help maintain their energy and focus:

Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They can provide a sustained source of energy and help to keep you feeling full for longer periods of time. Almonds, walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are all great options.
Whole Grains: Whole grains are another excellent source of sustained energy. They are a rich source of complex carbs, fiber, and B vitamins. Examples of whole grains include brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, and barley.
Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are important sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help to support brain function and protect against oxidative stress. Berries, leafy greens, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and citrus fruits are all great options.
Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate contains caffeine and flavonoids, which can help to improve cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue. Just be sure to choose dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa (70% or higher) and consume it in moderation.
Water: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy and focus throughout the day. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and consider sipping on herbal tea or coconut water for added hydration and nutrients.

Top Food Trends of 2022 – Part 2

By Edita Kaye

On April 17, 2022

In Berries, Breakfast, Dessert, Fiber, Fruit, Fun food projects, Grocery store, Ketogenic Diet, Veggies

Let’s continue with the anticipated food trends for 2022.

Chewy Food
In Asia, chewy foods that require strong jaw muscles are revered, and the texture is starting to make its way into American cuisine due to the cultural influence of social media.
Aside from boba, the concept of chewy food has also expanded to include rice cakes, ice cream, and tteokbokki. My Mochi ice cream is a small but oh-so-delicious treat that’s made from ice cream and peanut butter. It’s the most popular novelty food in the US.

Coffee Alternatives
Due to the weather conditions and rising temperatures, the coffee harvests have been affected. The price of coffee has also increased due to the limited supply.
Alt coffee is also an increasing trend. There are also single-serve tea bags that are caffeine-free. These products are very similar to traditional coffee.
A golden milk drink is also becoming a new favorite. This drink is made with milk and spices, and it’s usually served hot.

Allergy-Friendly Foods
In the US, there are around 32 million people with food allergies. It has been estimated that one in thirteen kids have at least one food allergy. Since there are few safe options in the grocery store, parents are more likely to create their kids’ food.
There are also individuals who make it themselves by creating products that are 100% allergen-free. Christine Allen started Mo’Pweeze after she couldn’t find anything that was suitable for her kids with food allergies.
Partake Foods is an online store that sells allergy-friendly mixes and cookies. There are also apps that help consumers find establishments that offer allergen-free products.
The number of people with food allergies has increased significantly. This is also evidenced by the number of user comments on allergy-friendly food blogs.

Eating to support mental health
In the past two years, 48% of Americans have focused on improving their mental and emotional health. If so, then it’s time to start consuming more functional food and drinks.
From energy drinks to detox and recovery aids, there’s a whole slew of products that promise to improve your health. Take a look at these products and accept that a new healthy ritual is just a part of a whole wellness puzzle.
Giada De Laurentiis, a celebrity French television personality, has also launched a new show called Simply Giada, which is inspired by her book “Eat Better, Feel Better.”

Indigenous restaurants
This list is mainly comprised of individuals who are teaching us that food is important. Many of them are Native and Indigenous activists, chefs, and makers. This list is also for those who are underrepresented and have a hard time accessing foodways who have therefore fought for food sovereignty.
Expect to see more people interested in the food that Native and Indigenous chefs are cooking. We especially admire Crystal Wahpepah, who is the first Native American to compete on “Chopped.”
She has created seasonal menus that feature dishes made from local corn and buffalo. Another noteworthy example is Sean Sherman, the creator of The Sioux Chef, a modern Native American restaurant in Minneapolis.
You won’t find traditional colonial ingredients on menus at many establishments. Instead, you’ll find dishes made with indigenous-produced ingredients.

Ice Cream Snacks
The disruption of working and home life has caused us to eat differently. Since we’re now focused on consuming more than just food, we’re also consuming frozen dessert bars as a snack.
Instead of being served ice cream, frozen treats are becoming more prevalent. These are low-calorie, individually wrapped, hand-held ice creams that are usually less than 500 calories.

Top Food Trends for 2022

By Edita Kaye

On February 21, 2022

In Breakfast, Dessert, Fruit, Grocery store, Veggies

The pandemic has changed the way we cook, and it’s given rise to new challenges and opportunities to reconnect with our kitchen. You may have gained a more refined palate while you mastered making silly mini pancakes. During this period, many of you also took on a serious social and racial equality stand. You also supported the efforts of local communities that are reclaiming food sovereignty.

After years of studying the trends for 2022, we decided to focus on what matters most to you now: what makes you happy and how we can make better food and beverage choices better for the planet.

Condiment Obsession

According to a survey conducted, 92% of American families plan on continuing to eat at home. However, cooking fatigue is real. If you’re not cooking as often because you don’t have the energy, then it’s time to step away from the kitchen and take a deep breath.

Due to the endless variety of food companies offering bold and diverse flavors, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to satisfying your hunger. Condiments are a great way to enhance taste and introduce bold flavors into family favorites.

The New Green Kitchen

A lot of people start their eco-friendly lifestyle in the kitchen. There are plenty of sustainable products out there that will make your life easier and less cluttered. One example of this is Stasher, a company that makes reusable storage bags.

Food waste is a large contributor to waste in the US, comprising 21% of all landfill. This is why composting is so important to reducing food waste.

The Food Network has launched a campaign called Combating Food Waste, which encourages people to turn their organic waste into something that can be used in their gardens and houses.

Underground Ordering

During the height of the pandemic, almost 8 million people were out of work. As a result, many states loosened restrictions so that people could sell “cottage food” directly to their customers. This was the key to Eric Huang, who was able to save his family’s restaurant after transitioning to a direct-to-consumer model.

Expect more restaurants to start using social media platforms to connect with their customers and expand their reach beyond the traditional restaurant model.

Fishless Fish

People are starting to understand the environmental impacts of illegal fishing. Due to the rising cases of ocean pollution, the term sustainable seafood has become outdated and unreliable.

According to a study conducted by the Yale Center for Communication, the carbon footprint associated with farming tilapia and catfish are equivalent to that of beef.

There are plenty of options out there that are both fish-free and plant-based. These products could be considered sustainable alternatives to traditional seafood.

Grocery Loyalty Pays

In the new world of grocery shopping, we’re using apps to order and pay for our food. While some basic items are cheaper, the cost is increasing due to the rising cost of food.

With grocery prices increasing at a 3.5% rate, many companies are revamping their loyalty programs to give members even more benefits. These plans can be found at Walmart, Albertson’s, and Kroger.

Some apps are also giving users exclusive perks, such as free shipping and delivery. They also have various bonuses, such as double gas points and discounts on prescriptions.

Tips For A Healthier You In 2022

By Edita Kaye

On December 23, 2021

In Uncategorized

After a challenging year, many Americans are ready to start making resolutions for the coming year. While many of them are focused on improving their mental and physical health, many others are planning on improving their diet and exercise. Thankfully, all of these go hand-in-hand. Below are some tips for a healthier version of you in the next year.

Get Exercise Regularly

There are numerous benefits of getting regular exercise. Being physically fit can help improve your mental and cardiovascular health. It can also reduce depression and improve your mood. Being active can help prevent mental health issues during the pandemic and during normal years.

Eat Healthy Meals

In addition to eating lots of vegetables and fruits, a diet low in red meat can help prevent chronic diseases and boost your blood cholesterol levels. It can also improve your risk of cancer. Aim for protein in the morning to keep your blood sugar in check and prevent it from getting too high. This can also help control appetite and prevent diabetes.

Get Enough Sleep

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted people’s sleep patterns, it’s still important to get at least eight hours of sleep a night to prevent infection and keep you mentally well. Try to set and keep a regular sleep schedule. Avoid caffeine and electronics before you head to bed.

Protect Yourself From Viruses

Getting a flu shot and a COVID-19 shot is the first step in the prevention of illnesses. If you feel sick, stay home so you can rest and avoid spreading the illness to others. Be sure to wash your hands often and wear a mask when around crowds of people.

Make A Plan

No matter what resolutions you set for the new year, it will be easier to stick to them if you make a plan and follow it. Create incentives, tell other people, write down goals and own up to what you want to change. All of these will help you stay accountable.

Most Americans are more than ready to say goodbye to this year. It has been difficult to stick to resolutions while going through the pandemic. Following some of these tips will help you get and stay healthier in the coming year and beyond.

Holiday Gift Ideas for Foodies

By Edita Kaye

On October 25, 2021

In Dessert, Fiber, Fruit, Fun food projects

Oh! Nuts Dried Fruit Gift Basket | Healthy No Sugar Added Huge Assortment of Dried Fruit Gourmet Holiday Gift

 🍎 VEGAN, ALL NATURAL & NO SUGAR ADDED: Our nutritious dried fruit is packed with healthy vitamins, minerals, and fiber for the ultimate diet-friendly indulgence. No additives, naturally sweet, zero sugar added, dairy-free, and vegan safe.

 🎀 UNIQUE TRAY TURNS INTO BAKSET: Snacks come presented on pretty wooden tray that folds from a countertop trivet into a standing fruit basket. Makes a fun display for holiday dinners, family parties, corporate events and more.

Link https://www.amazon.com/Oh-Nuts-Christmas-Assorted-Thanksgiving/dp/B07VZXHTKH/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+gift+ideas&qid=1634048570&sr=8-5

Pukka Herbs Support Selection Gift Box, Collection of Organic Herbal Teas,

 45 sachets of incredible organic herbal teas selected from the Pukka range for seasonal wellness.

 Elderberry and Echinacea – Lemon, Ginger and Manuka Honey – Turmeric Glow – Blackcurrant Beauty – Three Ginger

 Bring these incredible herbs alive by infusing in freshly boiled water for up to 15 minutes

 100% organically grown and ethically sourced ingredients. Vegetarian, kosher and non-GM

Link https://www.amazon.com/Pukka-Support-Selection-Collection-Organic/dp/B08H2QWGWK/ref=sr_1_4_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634048845&sr=8-4-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzQ0FVVUNJQjAyR1BSJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDcyNjE1MVo3QU9SU01GT1dWNyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTgzMzkzMlZEOEFURFBDUzdGWiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

Oh! Nuts 12 Variety Mixed Nut Gift Basket, Holiday Freshly Roasted Healthy Gourmet Snack Gifts | Premium Wood Tray

 PRESENT A GIFT THAT LEAVES A MEMORABLE IMPRESSION: This signature Oh! Nuts rustic wooden tray is filled to the brim with healthy goodies. The lidded container is neatly divided into 12 compartments featuring an assortment of HIGH-QUALITY GRADE A FRESH NUTS. Replace the traditional candy, chocolates, and baked goods with healthier, trendier treats

 FESTIVE NUTS BURSTING WITH UNIQUE FLAVOR: You and your family will love to snack on this tasty sampler of sweet, salty, and savory goodness. The jumbo cashews, pecans and filberts are freshly roasted to perfection and then slightly salted to enhance their truly delicious taste, the pistachios are rich, nutty, with pleasing earthy undertones and the pumpkin and sunflower seeds provide a fun mouthful of assorted crunchy goodies.

Link https://www.amazon.com/Baskets-Valentine-Variety-Freshly-Roasted/dp/B01KKOZJ42/ref=sr_1_14?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634050582&sr=8-14

Urban Accents MOVIE NIGHT™ Popcorn Kernels and Popcorn Seasoning Variety Pack (set of 8) – 3 Non-GMO Popcorn Kernel Packs and 5 Gourmet Popcorn Snack Seasoning- Perfect Gift for any Occasion

 BURSTING WITH FLAVOR: We’ve included a popcorn flavoring for every taste! White Cheddar, Sweet & Salty Kettlecorn, Chili Lime, Buttery Caramel and Sizzling Sriracha gourmet popcorn seasoning.

 POPCORN GIFT SET: Give this delicious popcorn kernel and seasoning set at your next dinner party or holiday gathering – it’s the perfect foodie gift for any occasion!

LINK https://www.amazon.com/Urban-Accents-Popcorn-Kernels-Seasoning/dp/B07JN5467R/ref=sr_1_27?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634051018&sr=8-27

A Gift Inside Chocolate Caramel and Crunch Grand Gift Basket for Christmas

 Best selling deliciousness: thousands upon thousands of gift-givers can’t be wrong! One taste of our prized gourmet, gooey caramel corn, including both straight caramel and real-chocolate drizzled, generously heaped into this basket full of favorites, and you will understand why

 Handmade chocolates, handmade caramel corn. We pop fresh popcorn, melt real Challenge butter and caramel, and drench it in the rich, thick goodness. The melters are full of real chocolates, pouring out pans of chocolate barks, pressing whole almonds into the warm, thick Slabs. Nothing but the best will do for our favorite people-our customers-giving to their favorite people

LINKhttps://www.amazon.com/Chocolate-Caramel-Crunch-Grand-Basket/dp/B004D9XYWU/ref=sr_1_30?dchild=1&keywords=best+holiday+food+gift+ideas&qid=1634050822&sr=8-30

Cookbooks Across Europe

By Edita Kaye

On February 17, 2021

In Cookbooks, Fun food projects

This month I thought we could feature Irish cooking for St. Patrick’s Day and then go on to feature cookbooks from Europe!

1. The Complete Irish Pub Cookbook (Love Food) Hardcover – January 15, 2019

Pubs in Ireland are the cornerstone of their communities, relaxed places where locals and visitors can experience the best of traditional Irish hospitality. Many pubs have also become the place to go for a great meal, with a choice of both traditional and contemporary dishes. In recent years Irish cooking has been transformed, with skillful cooks making the most of wonderful fresh local produce to create delicious new dishes and giving a twist to many classics. This collection includes the best of both worlds – with best-loved favorites such as Irish Stew and Split Pea and Ham Soup and also newer recipes, like Scallop Chowder or Oatmeal and Raspberry Cream to set your taste buds tingling. So just open this book to enjoy the best of traditional and contemporary Irish pub cooking.

2. French Cooking for Beginners: 75+ Classic Recipes to Cook Like a Parisian

From Paris direct to your table―the complete French cookbook for beginners

The French may not have invented cooking, but they certainly have perfected the art of eating well. In this definitive French cookbook that’s perfect for beginners, you’ll discover how to make the timeless, tasty cuisine served up at French dinner tables and in beloved bistros and brasseries.

Author François de Mélogue breaks down classic French cookbook dishes like Duck Confit with Crispy Potatoes, Bouillabaisse, and Coq au Vin into easy-to-follow steps perfect for the newcomer. Along the way, you’ll learn how to put together a cheese board any Parisian would be proud of, fry the perfect pommes frites, and pair food and wine like a pro. Let’s get cooking the French way! Bon appetit!

3. The Complete Italian Cookbook: Essential Regional Cooking of Italy

From the heart of Italy directly to your table―110 authentic regional recipes

Italian cuisine’s abundance of flavor, high-quality ingredients, and regional diversity make it one of the most popular in the world. Unlike some other Italian cookbooks, The Complete Italian Cookbook will help you make beloved dishes in your own kitchen with more than 100 authentic recipes from all over the country.

4. 1,000 Spanish Recipes

From one of the most influential experts on the subject, a cookbook culminating her 40-year career and lifelong love affair with Spanish cuisine.

Penelope Casas was one of the premier authorities on Spanish food. She taught Americans about jamón serrano, Manchego cheese, and chorizo, in addition to countless dishes, from patatas bravas to churros. She wrote several acclaimed books, and 1,000 Spanish Recipes is her final work and legacy. It is a very special addition to the award-winning 1,000 Recipes series.

5. Grandma’s German Cookbook

Whether it’s crispy fried potatoes, steamed dumplings, or a creamy jelly roll stuffed with raspberries, no one makes food as good as a German grandmother — that is, until now!

Featuring eighty-five classic recipes, from soups to Sunday roasts, and desserts to Christmas favorites, Grandma’s German Cookbook is loaded with recipes any German grandmother would proudly serve her family.

They’ll also discover charming profiles of German grandmothers and their takes on classic dishes, for added authentic inspiration.

Edita Kaye’s Favorite Books On Managing Anxiety

By Edita Kaye

On September 17, 2020

In Uncategorized

Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts Hardcover – January 28, 2020

by Jennie Allen (Author)

4.7 out of 5 stars 5,129 ratings

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • You can choose hope in the midst of chaos. The visionary behind the million-strong IF:Gathering challenges you to exercise your God-given power to shift negative thinking patterns and take back control of your thoughts and emotions.

Unfuck Your Brain: Getting Over Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Freak-Outs, and Triggers with science (5-Minute Therapy) Paperback – Illustrated, November 7, 2017

by Faith Harper PhD LPC-S ACS ACN (Author)

4.5 out of 5 stars 936 ratings

A no-nonsense and helpful guide on how to cope with a slew of mental-health issues that are hellbent on ruining the lives of millions of people worldwide.

Our brains do their best to help us out, but every so often they can be real assholes―having melt downs, getting addicted to things, or shutting down completely at the worst possible moments. Your brain knows it’s not good to do these things, but it can’t help it sometimes―especially if it’s obsessing about trauma it can’t overcome. That’s where this life-changing book comes in.

Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World Paperback – October 8, 2019

by Max Lucado (Author)

4.8 out of 5 stars 3,053 ratings

Does the uncertainty and chaos of life keep you up at night? Is irrational anxiety your constant companion? Let God help you win the war on worry and receive the lasting peace of Christ. We all encounter anxiety, but we don’t have to let worry and fear control our lives. Anxious for Nothing, from New York Times bestselling author, Max Lucado, provides a roadmap for battling with and healing from anxiety.

Rewire Your Anxious Brain: How to Use the Neuroscience of Fear to End Anxiety, Panic, and Worry Paperback – January 2, 2015

by Catherine M. Pittman PhD (Author), Elizabeth M Karle MLIS (Author)

4.6 out of 5 stars 672 ratings

Do you ever wonder what is happening inside your brain when you feel anxious, panicked, and worried? In Rewire Your Anxious Brain, psychologist Catherine Pittman and author Elizabeth Karle offer a unique, evidence-based solution to overcoming anxiety based in cutting-edge neuroscience and research.

The Stress-Proof Brain: Master Your Emotional Response to Stress Using Mindfulness and Neuroplasticity Paperback – February 2, 2017

by Melanie Greenberg PhD (Author)

4.5 out of 5 stars 129 ratings Modern times are stressful—and it’s killing us. Unfortunately, we can’t avoid the things that stress us out, but we can change how we respond to them. In this breakthrough book, a clinical psychologist and neuroscience expert offers an original approach to help readers harness the power of positive emotions and overcome stress for good.

Healthy Summer Cocktail Recipes

By Edita Kaye

On July 29, 2019

In Berries, Dessert, Fruit, Fun food projects

Summer is in full swing. Try these healthy cocktail recipes at your next cook out or get together.

Strawberry Citrus Vodka Cocktail

This sweet drink will definitely be a hit. All it involves is muddling strawberries and mint then adding in citrus vodka, lemon juice and agave nectar. For the full directions on how to make this:
fitnessmagazine.com/recipe/drinks/strawberry-citrus-vodka-cocktail/

Skinnygirl Lemon Drop
This refreshing cocktail only has 110 calories! To make, mix take lemon vodka, sugar free lemonade mix. Top it off with a splash of sparkling water and garnish with a lemon.

Spiked Pomegranate Lemonade
This super simple recipe is wonderfully refreshing! Just combine citrus voda, lemonade, pomegranate juice, and club soda. For the full directions on how to make this:
fitnessmagazine.com/recipe/drinks/healthy-cocktail/

Peach Mint Mojito

This cocktail is as delicious as it sounds. To make just mix mint, lime wedges, and peach chunks in with Bacardi rum. Muddle then add ice and sparkling water.

Cucumber Ginger Lemonade
Combine lemon, ginger, and cucumbers to vodka for a guilt free cocktail.
For the full directions on how to make this:
healthline.com/health/low-calorie-cocktails#cucumber-ginger-lemonade

Summer Sangria
Summer Sangria is perfect for parties. In a pitcher combine a bottle of your favorite red wine, agave nectar, and lemon, lime, and orange juice. Then add whatever fruit you’d like, such as, apples, pineapples, and strawberries. To serve just fill glasses with ice and pour in the sangria, garnishing with some of the fruit.

Blood Orange Moscow Mule
This puts a nice spin on the class moscow mule. In a glass muddle lime and mint then add blood orange juice, vodka, and pomegranate juice. Top it off with ginger beer, leaving room for ice. Once you fill the rest of the glass with crushed ice, it’s ready to drink!
justalittlebitofbacon.com/blood-orange-moscow-mule/

Watermelon Cucumber Basil Seltzer (Non-Alcoholic)
A refreshing beverage that’s great for any party! Make the fruit concentrate, simple syrup, and soda all separately and then combine before guests arrive.
For the full instructions on how to make this:
eatingwell.com/recipe/264179/watermelon-cucumber-basil-seltzer/

Getting Started on the Keto Diet

By Edita Kaye

On July 2, 2019

In Ketogenic Diet

The ketogenic diet (also known simply as “keto”) is a high fat, low carb diet that seems to be everywhere right now. People who follow a ketogenic diet usually report losing weight quickly without feeling deprived, as well as other benefits such as mental clarity, improved digestion, and stable energy levels.

But Isn’t Fat Bad for Me?

It was once thought that fat was bad for us. It’s important to recognize, however, that there are several different types of fat. Some types of fats are considered healthy (even by those who don’t follow the ketogenic diet plan). Unsaturated fats found in avocados, fish, nuts, and seeds are considered healthy across the board.

If you’re considering jumping on the bandwagon, here are some tips to help you get started right.

What to Avoid

The goal of a keto diet is to get your body into a state where it burns fat for energy rather than sugar. This state is called ketosis and is where the name “keto” originates. Ketosis is accomplished by limiting carbohydrates and increasing the body’s fat intake. That means avoiding sugar (including high-sugar fruits), grains, starches, beans, legumes, root vegetables, and alcohol.

What to Eat

Instead, you should be fueling your body with healthy fats, such as grass-fed beef, fatty fish like salmon or tuna, nuts, seeds, avocados, and healthy oils like olive oil. You can also eat cheese and other dairy products on a keto diet, but many experts recommend eating dairy sparingly. Be sure to also consume low-carb vegetables like most greens, onions, and tomatoes.

Best Practices

To succeed with the keto diet, it’s best to plan out your meals and snacks ahead of time. Many of your favorite dishes can be made in a ketogenic way by substituting ingredients. For example, you’ll find recipes like pancakes, pizza, and even cupcakes in keto cookbooks and online. They are mostly made using healthy ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, and alternative natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.

It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting a new plan. Not every plan is right for everyone! If your doctor gives you the green light, then go for it! Do your research, get your hands on a great keto cookbook, and prepare your food ahead of time. Eliminate temptations from your home and fill your pantry with healthy, fatty foods. That’s your recipe for success!