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Benefits: Comparing the Benefits of Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar
The benefits of lemon water and apple cider vinegar (ACV) do overlap some. Both contain acetic acid at varying levels which is responsible for many of the health benefits. Despite the overlap, there are certain differences between them.
Lemon water can help with hydration by increasing fluid intake and maintaining hydration levels. It is also believed to improve skin health by boosting collagen synthesis and reducing oxidative stress. The lemon pulp has lots of these benefits so consider using it in your water or recipes.
There are also a lot of health benefits of apple cider vinegar, it can regulate your blood sugar level and improve insulin sensitivity to aid in weight loss by reducing appetite and promoting fat burning. It may also improve heart health by decreasing cholesterol levels and reducing high blood pressure.
Tooth Enamel: Comparing the Effects of Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar on Tooth Enamel
Both apple cider vinegar (ACV) and lemon water can pose a potential harm to tooth enamel due to their acidic nature. However, ACV is generally more acidic than lemon juice, meaning that it may have a greater likelihood to erode tooth enamel.
ACV typically has a pH ranging from 2.8 to 3.0, while the pH of lemon juice ranges from 2.0 to 2.6. Since the pH scale is logarithmic, each incremental decrease in pH represents a tenfold increase in acidity. Thus, ACV is approximately ten times more acidic than lemon juice. When acidic beverages come into contact with tooth enamel, they can soften and weaken it, making it susceptible to erosion over time.
To avoid or reduce the risk of tooth enamel erosion, it’s recommended to consume acidic drinks like ACV and lemon water in moderation, avoid swishing or retaining them in the mouth for prolonged periods, drink them through a straw to lessen contact with teeth, rinse the mouth with water after consuming them, and maintain proper oral hygiene practices such as frequent brushing and flossing.
Empty Stomach: Comparing Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar consumption on an empty stomach
Due to the acidic content of both drinks there doesn’t appear to be any benefit over ACV or lemon water on an empty stomach.
There are some still individuals who believe that drinking ACV or lemon water first thing in the morning without eating anything can aid in digestion and enhance energy levels. However, these claims currently lack sufficient scientific evidence, and further research must be conducted to validate them.
On the flip side, consuming acidic beverages such as lemon water or ACV on an empty stomach can heighten the chances of tooth enamel erosion and stomach problems. This is because without food, these acidic drinks can come into direct contact with the stomach lining, which may cause irritation, inflammation or ulcers for certain individuals.
Furthermore, it’s important to keep in mind that everybody’s body responds differently to various foods and drinks. What may help one person may not necessarily have the same effect on another. If you’re contemplating drinking ACV or lemon water on an empty stomach, it’s recommended to start with a small amount and slowly increase dosage over time to monitor its effects on your body. Additionally, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before implementing any significant modifications to your diet or daily routine, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions.
Free Radicals: Comparing Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar(s) ability to fight free radicals.
ACV and lemon water both contain antioxidants that can fight free radicals, but the quantity and types of antioxidants they offer do differ.
ACV includes polyphenols, a type of antioxidant with potential health benefits, such as lowering the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease. However, the quantity of polyphenols ACV contains may vary based on the brand, age and production method.
Lemons are a rich source of vitamin C, which is an influential antioxidant that can defend cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Vitamin C is also responsible for wound healing, collagen synthesis, and immune function.
While both ACV and lemon water may provide some antioxidant benefits, their effectiveness in this area will depend on various factors, including the type of antioxidant, concentration, and bioavailability.
Kidney Stones: Comparing Lemon Water vs. Apple Cider Vinegar(s) ability to fight kidney stones
The scientific evidence on the effectiveness of both apple cider vinegar (ACV) and lemon water in preventing or treating kidney stones is fairly limited. Some animal and in vitro studies suggest that citric acid found in lemons and lemon juice may increase urine volume and urinary citrate levels, reducing the concentration of stone-forming substances in urine. However, further research is required to confirm these findings in humans.
Some initial research also indicates that ACV’s acetic acid content may help dissolve kidney stones. However, there is currently isn’t enough evidence to support using ACV as a treatment for kidney stones.
It’s important to note that kidney stones are a complicated ailment with various causes, and treatment and prevention plans should be customizable based on individual requirements and medical history. If you have concerns about kidney stones or any other health issue, it’s important to discuss them with a healthcare professional for tailored advice.
Nutritional Composition: Comparing the Nutritional Benefit of both Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Water
| Nutrient | Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp or 15 mL) | Lemon Juice (1 medium lemon or 58 g) |
| Calories | 3 | 17 |
| Carbohydrates | Negligible | 5 g |
| Fiber | Negligible | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | Negligible | 1 g |
| Vitamin C | Negligible | 30.7 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | Negligible | 0.1 mg |
| Potassium | Negligible | 80.8 mg |
| Folate | Negligible | 5.5 mcg |
| Acetic Acid | About 5-6% of the total volume | Negligible |
| Other Organic Acids | Yes | Negligible |
| Antioxidants | Polyphenols, beneficial bacteria | Citric acid, flavonoids |
Negative Side Effects: Comparing the Negative Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Water
- Tooth enamel erosion can occur over time with frequent consumption of both ACV and lemon water due to their acidic nature. However, lemon juice has a higher potential for erosion on the enamel of your teeth as it is more acidic than ACV. Digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or acid reflux can be caused by both drinks, but studies suggest that ACV is more likely to cause these side effects.
- Digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or acid reflux can be caused by both drinks, but studies suggest that ACV is more likely to cause these side effects.
- Medication interactions may occur differently with ACV and lemon juice, as ACV can interfere with the absorption of antibiotics and diuretics, while lemon juice may interact with blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs.
- Skin irritation can be caused by undiluted or excessive use of ACV and lemon juice, although ACV is generally more likely to cause irritation due to its lower pH.
- Consuming large amounts of ACV may lead to low potassium levels in the body, which is potentially dangerous for those with certain health conditions, but moderate consumption of ACV or lemon water is generally not a concern.
Consuming: Comparing how to consume Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Water
Apple cider vinegar and lemon water can both be a part of a healthy diet. It is important to think about how you consume them but the most popular way is to simply add it to a large glass of water.
Both can be used in salad dressings, marinades, tea’s and added too recipes for sautéed vegetables. You can use them to pickle vegetables as well or even make a smoothie.
The best way to consume it is truly the way you enjoy it the most. Another great way I use lemon is in warm water in the morning or smoothies. I love using apple cider vinegar in an easy cucumber dressing with salt, pepper and a tiny bit of raw honey.
Easy Lemon Water Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized lemon or 1 TBS fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 cups of water (depending on your preference)
Instructions:
- Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a glass or pitcher.
- Add water to the lemon juice and stir well.
- You can drink the lemon water immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes to infuse the water with lemon flavor.
Notes: Some variations you can try include adding a pinch of salt or a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to enhance the flavor. You can also experiment with adding other ingredients like herbs (such as mint or basil), spices (like ginger or turmeric), or fruits (such as strawberries or cucumbers) to customize the taste and nutritional benefits of your lemon water.
You can also try warm lemon water but of course test the temperature and add the lemon juice after heating.
Easy Apple Cider Vinegar Drink Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 8-12 ounces of water
- 1-2 teaspoons raw honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour 8-12 ounces of water into a glass.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the water and stir to combine.
- If desired, add 1-2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup to sweeten the drink.
- Drink the apple cider vinegar water before meals or as a daily health tonic.
You can also customize this recipe by adding other ingredients such as ginger, turmeric, or lemon juice for added flavor and health benefits.
Notes: You can use cold water or warm water if you want.
Let me know what way you plan on using lemon water and apple cider vinegar! For me I use them both regularly in different ways. I make sure that I mix up the ways in which I consume them to mitigate some of the negative effects such as consumption on an empty stomach and tooth enamel erosion.
Looking for other comparisons, check this article out!
Peer reviewed scientific studies referenced to gather the factual information for this article.
- Effects of apple cider vinegar supplementation on lipid profiles and oxidative stress biomarkers in high-fat-fed rats. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.01.039) Journal of functional foods
- Apple cider vinegar modulates serum lipid profile, erythrocyte, kidney, and liver membrane oxidative stress in ovariectomized mice fed high cholesterol. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2018.04.019)
- Apple cider vinegar attenuates lipid profile in normal and diabetic rats. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.11.004)
- Apple cider vinegar attenuates oxidative stress and liver damage in high cholesterol-fed rats. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2017.09.007)
- Ferraro, P. M., Taylor, E. N., Gambaro, G., & Curhan, G. C. (2016). Soda and other beverages and the risk of kidney stones. Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 11(10), 1624-1632. (https://doi: 10.2215/CJN.01380216)
- Haleblian, G. E., Leitao, V. A., Pierre, S. A., Robinson, M. R., & Albala, D. M. (2009). Evaluation of citrus fruit-derived flavonoids as potential inhibitors of phosphodiesterase-4D. Journal of Endourology, 23(4), 555-560. (https://doi: 10.1089/end.2008.0436)
- Park, S., & Pearle, M. S. (2008). Pathophysiology and management of calcium stones. Urologic Clinics of North America, 35(3), 393-406. (https://doi: 10.1016/j.ucl.2008.04.004)
- Rodrigo, L., & Gil, F. (2018). How do we diagnose and treat uric acid stones? International Urology and Nephrology, 50(3), 439-446. (https://doi: 10.1007/s11255-017-1738-7)
- Shavit, L., Ferraro, P. M., & Gambaro, G. (2015). Potassium citrate and kidney stone recurrence in children. Journal of Urology, 193(4), 1419-1425. (https://doi: 10.1016/j.juro.2014.10.121)
- Wong, J. M., Ebbeling, C. B., Robinson, L., Feldman, H. A., & Ludwig, D. S. (2019). Effects of Advice to Drink 8 Cups of Water per Day in Adolescents With Overweight or Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Pediatrics, 173(5), 439–446. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2019.0074
- Koufman, J. A., Johnston, N., Wei, Z., & Fennerty, M. B. (2012). Potential benefits of pH 8.8 alkaline drinking water as an adjunct in the treatment of reflux disease. Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology, 121(7), 431-434. https://doi.org/10.1177/000348941212100702
- Haidari, F., Shahi, M. M., Zarei, M., Rafieian-Kopaei, M., & Keshavarz, S. A. (2015). Antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective potential of lemon (Citrus limonum) peel extract in rats treated with lipopolysaccharide. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 63(1), 238-243. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf505059t
What is liquid chlorophyll?
Liquid chlorophyll, is a natural green pigment found in the chloroplasts of plants, that play an essential role in photosynthesis. The liquid form of chlorophyll used for consumption is usually extracted from leafy greens such as spinach, parsley and alfalfa.
The extraction procedure usually involves pulverizing the plant matter and mixing it with a solvent, like ethanol, to draw out the chlorophyll. Once extracted, the liquid is purified and concentrated for use as a dietary supplement or other purposes. Many people refer to liquid chlorophyll as the building block of life because of the high amounts of antioxidants. It’s also touted as a green superfood that has no natural fat.
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What is liquid chlorophyll used for?
- -Fight bad breath
- -Reduce body odors
- -Boost immune function
- -Reduce free radicals in the body
- -Improve gut health
- -Support in detoxification
- -Increase blood health
- -Wound healing
- -Overall skin health
- -Increase energy levels
What is the science behind liquid chlorophyll?
Liquid chlorophyll has a range of uses, from being taken as a dietary supplement for general well-being to treat bad breath by freshening it naturally. Some people even apply it topically as a skin healer and deodorant. It is also thought to alleviate inflammation and aid detoxification.
There are a few studies on the benefits of liquid chlorophyll consumption but overall scientific data is very limited. The studies I found are detailed here if you’d like to seek more information. A 2013 study from the Journal of Medicinal Food found it had anti-inflammatory effects. Another study in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry in 2014 also found it had strong antioxidant activity.
In 2018 the Journal of Nutrition found chlorophyllin to be effective in reducing a toxic compound in the blood of humans and animals. The Journal of Wound care conducted a study in 2017 that found a chlorophyll ointment promoted wound healing in rats.
Chlorophyll can also be used to support the immune system and its overall function. Chlorophyll is an amazing and powerful antioxidant that could potentially guard cells from free radical harm, which can lead to long-term inflammation and sickness. Also, some research suggests that chlorophyll may give a boost to the immune system by triggering the creation of white blood cells and increasing the potency of natural killer cells, which help fight off disease and cancer.
There are also several studies showing that liquid chlorophyll was highly successful in removing heavy metals from water sources. These studies haven’t been proven in the human body but many holistic healthcare professionals believe it has the same ability to act as a heavy metal detox for the body.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Liquid Chlorophyll
The FDA has not endorsed liquid chlorophyll as a treatment or preventive measure for any medical condition; however, they have classified it as GRAS, which is recognized as safe for common use in food or other products. You should of course always consult a certified medical professional before implementing any advice you found on the internet. The lack of endorsement from the FDA shouldn’t be cause for concern as they rarely monitor products they consider to be an herbal supplement.
How do you use or take liquid chlorophyll?
There are a variety of ways to take liquid chlorophyll to meet whatever your needs are. Chlorophyll water is one of the most popular methods. To make this you simply mix it into a glass of water, most manufactures have directions on how to do this for their specific product. Other popular methods are simply taking it as a shot, or just dropping the drops directly into your mouth.
Depending on what you are trying to achieve you can take it daily, weekly or even less frequently. Some people take it daily for overall health and wellness benefits. Other people choose to take it for a specific amount of time to aid in the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Many recommend taking it on an empty stomach without anything else mixed with it to achieve maximum benefits. The empty stomach theory doesn’t have a lot of merit so if that isn’t your preference I wouldn’t worry. There is also a large subsect of people who prefer to take it with a smooth or green juice of some kind to mask some of the earthy taste. I personally prefer to put it in a green smoothie because I find the taste of a shot a bit too intense.
You’ll of course want to again follow the recommendations of a certified healthcare professional and the manufacturer’s recommendations on the best way consume their product.
Is liquid chlorophyll safe for children?
No liquid chlorophyll is not safe for children. Many online sources, non-medical professionals, state that it could be very beneficial for children but the fact is there are no medical studies on the effects of chlorophyll supplementation for children. Kids are still developing and the benefits of any kind of chlorophyll supplementation do not outweigh the unknown risks. As with all supplements its of course important to keep them out of reach of children.
What if I’m not sure I am ready to begin liquid chlorophyll supplementation?
I am extra cautious about supplements I take and prefer to obtain my nutrition from food sources when possible. The following foods are naturally high in chlorophyll, adding these foods to your existing diet and could be a good place to start.
- Parsley
- Spinach
- Watercress
- Kale
- Wheatgrass
- Arugula
- Swiss chard
- Collard greens
- Mustard greens
- Dandelion greens
Other foods like broccoli, green beans, and zucchini also contain chlorophyll, as well as some fruits like apples and kiwi.
Can I make my own liquid chlorophyll?
Yes you can totally make your own liquid chlorophyll at home by juicing some of the greens listed above. Note that this will be different from an actual chlorophyll supplement you buy as those companies specifically extract just the chlorophyll from foods. Juicing is still beneficial but won’t be a straight chlorophyll just a higher concentration than eating the entire vegetable.
Are there negative side effects to liquid chlorophyll supplementation?
Yes there can be. Liquid chlorophyll is usually safe when taken as instructed, and negative side effects are rare. However, mild side effects may occur such as: digestive issues like diarrhea, cramps or nausea; allergic reactions like itching, swelling or shortness of breath; green coloring of urine and/or feces, which is harmless but might be concerning; and photosensitivity, making skin more vulnerable to sunlight and causing irritation or sunburn.
Additionally, please note that liquid chlorophyll can interfere with certain medications, like blood thinners, and may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
What is the best organic liquid chlorophyll supplement brand on the market?
World Organics Liquid Chlorophyll
World Organic’s Liquid Chlorophyll is the best liquid chlorophyll on the market. This product has over 3300 5 star ratings on Amazon. The chlorophyll is extracted from organic high quality alfalfa leaves and preservative free.
World organic liquid chlorophyll appears to be one of the organic liquid chlorophyll products on the market. There are many liquid chlorophyll products but after extensive research almost no others are organic. I’ve listed a few other liquid chlorophyll products that are not organic but have exceptionally high standards for their products, even more in my opinion than the world organic’s brand.
Benevolent Nourishment
Benevolent Nourishment Liquid Chlorophyll is produced according to GMP (good manufacturing practice) standards which ensures products are manufactured consistently to high quality standards. They also test their products in accordance with GMP standards and their own high quality standards which gives an extra layer of protection for the buyer.
Mary Ruth Organics
Mary Ruth Organics was founded in 2014 and makes a wide variety of supplements including a Vegan Liquid Chlorophyll. This product is testing by a third party lab for quality and safety before launching to the market. It is non-GMO and uses organic fillers such as organic peppermint for flavor and organic vegetable glycerin. This product has over 9000 5 star reviews on Amazon with many people touting the health benefits they have experienced after adding this product to their routine.
Buried Treasure Liquid Chlorophyll
Buried treasure is owned by Life Line Foods company who has been manufacturing health foods since 1969. Buried treasure states they source all products thoroughly from reliable companies world wide to create their high quality products. They also lab test and certify all their products in the USA in FDA and GMP compliant lab. While some of their products appear organic it does not appear the Chlorophyll is but it is Non-GMO. They also have over 2800 5 star reviews on Amazon.
Horabaach Liquid Chlorophyll
Horabaach is a large scale supplement manufacturing company dating back to 1971. They state they carefully source products and ensure they provide the highest quality products at affordable costs to their customers. They have multiple certifications regarding their lab environment and testing standards. They also state they have testing at every stage of their product which guarantees quality and purity. They have over 1600 5 star reviews on amazon but it is noted that many reviewers found the taste to be particularly unpleasant.
New Age Chlorophyll Liquid Drops
New Age is a brand I’m a bit on the fence about. They do list some of their certifications and standards but do not go into detail about their labs, sourcing or company founding. They are GMP certified but do not mention Non-GMO or organic processes. They have over 4200 5 star reviews from Amazon but multiple people mentioned there is some grain towards the end of the bottom that doesn’t mix into their liquids all the way when consuming.
While researching liquid chlorophyll supplements to recommend there were several more brands on Amazon that were not high-quality enough to recommend. I won’t call any out here but I urge you to look into the companies that you buy from. Look for companies that seek out certifications for their labs and products. There are several companies that are only on amazon, don’t list any certifications and it’s unclear when or how they began, these are companies I personally would be wary to buy from.
Looking for some more all natural superfoods? Check out my post on the best Manuka honey brands on the market!
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Egg in a Hole by Bitz & Giggles
Known by many names, there is the classic Egg in a Hole. This one is given a Valentine’s spin by using a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the hole. This is such an easy breakfast and a fun spin with the heart in the middle. Add some jam to the heart cutout and you have an A+ breakfast in my book!
Sweet Cinnamon Roll Waffles by Two Kids and a Coupon
So this recipe truly an easy Valentine’s Day breakfast. It is by far the easiest way to make waffles because it is literally canned cinnamon rolls cooked in a waffle iron and the results are an absolutely delicious breakfast that the whole family loves. This is such a fun recipe because your kids can totally join in regardless of age and have fun squishing the rolls down into the waffle maker as it closes. Top these beauties with cream cheese icing and you have the most delicious but more importantly easiest Valentine’s Day breakfast.
Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie by Fantabulosity
Here we have a neat twist on a classic favorite. Who doesn’t love strawberry smoothies? But February can be cold, so an iced drink isn’t always the thing. This Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie scratches that smoothie itch, while keeping things all warm and cozy, it is also so beautiful looking!
Chocolate Raspberry Heartcakes by Strength and Sunshine
These adorable heart shape pancakes are topped with fresh fruit and a great choice for a delicious but still super healthy breakfast. This is a favorite recipe for people with specific dietary choices, thanks to the fact they are vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. These Chocolate Rapsberry heart pancakes are flavored with cocoa and fun way to start the day!
Air Fryer Heart Shaped Donuts by Recipes from a Pantry
Is there a better way to start the day than with sweet treats like donuts? The obvious answer is here is no haha but seriously these are so easy and so cute for a special breakfast on Valentine’s Day morning. Air Fryer Heart-Shaped Donuts that take less than 10 minutes and are a huge hit with my entire family.
Valentine’s Day Croissants by Simply Well Balanced
This croissants are so easy and so much fun to top with icing, sprinkles and even some powdered sugar for the ultimate sweet treat. They only take a few simple ingredients, to make and are perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. You could also keep this as a staple and swap out your icing colors and sprinkles to make this a go to special breakfast year round!
Banana Strawberry Smoothie by Nourish Plate
Smoothies are my go to breakfast so this is for sure top of the list for me. It is something fairly quick and easy, but super nourishing. It’s packed with plant protein and a great choice if you are pinched for time but still looking for something sweet to make. I like to top mine with fresh strawberries cut vertically because they resemble hearts.
Raspberry Oatmeal by Planted in the Kitchen
Oatmeal is a breakfast staple and this easy recipe takes it up a notch which is perfect for a special day without having to break out your heart cookie cutter. The oatmeal comes out super pink without any gross food dyes and just natural healthy ingredients. Feel free to go crazy topping this with maple syrup, raspberries, coconut shreds and of course sprinkles!
Healthy Whole Wheat Strawberry Waffles by Dragon Mama
These waffles are loaded with strawberry flavor but still super healthy. Also a bonus if you have this kind of waffle maker to make these adorable heart-shaped waffles with no effort. It’s also nice that the recipe as a whole is super healthy with no added sugar and whole wheat flour. Feel free to top these with warm strawberry sauce to make this a super delicious, super red Valentine’s Day breakfast.
Strawberry Nutella Crepes by 365 Days of Baking and More
If you have Nutella laying around in your house then this recipe is for you. Crepes can seem intimidating but this are pretty easy and the result is super yummy. This is a fun Valentine’s Day breakfast to top with fresh berries, dark chocolate drizzle and powdered sugar. Cut your strawberries vertically to look like hearts for bonus points or use these easy fruit cutters to do the job for you!
White Chocolate and Raspberry Muffins by The Pypers Kitchen
Truly, what does separate a muffin from a cupcake? After trying these White Chocolate and Raspberry Muffins, that question might be unanswerable. Light, fluffy, and delicious, these are a great way to say “I love you” this Valentine’s Day.
Very Berry Bread Pudding by Piping Pot Curry
This Very Berry Bread Pudding recipe makes use of blueberries and raspberries for a burst of berry flavor. The best part about it is that bread pudding is perfect for preparing ahead of time and then reheating to serve when it’s ready. So no early morning cooking is necessary.
Strawberries and Cream Stuffed French Toast by Amanda’s Cookin’
Here we have a recipe that takes a breakfast staple, in French toast, and Valentines it up with strawberries and cream cheese. This decadent Strawberries and Cream Stuffed French Toast is the perfect way to start Valentine’s Day. Or really, any day.
Canadian Fried Dough Pastry by Ottawa Mommy Club
This next option might not look like much, but one taste is all it will take. This Canadian Fried Dough Pastry Recipe makes for an amazing breakfast. The fried dough pastries, aka elephant ears, can be dusted in cinnamon sugar and then served with a fruit spread or a cream cheese spread.
Brioche French Toast Casserole Bake by A Baking Journey
At its heart, this Brioche French Toast Casserole Bake may be a bread pudding, but what a bread pudding! Deceptively easy to make, it’s sure to wow guests or family members; whomever is lucky enough to be served this dish.
Fruity Sugar-Free Flapjacks by Nutriciously
Besides being vegan and refined sugar free, this recipe for Fruity Sugar-Free Flapjacks is a meal in of itself. They are described as being “totally moreish.”
Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls by Live to Sweet
What’s even better than cinnamon rolls? Funfetti cinnamon rolls! These made from scratch Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls are great any time but substituting in Valentine’s sprinkles will make them perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Mini Pancake Cereal by The Salt and Sweet Kitchen
Mini Pancake Cereal is three words that don’t seem like they can be used together. But it is a thing, and it’s actually amazing. This recipe author doesn’t top hers with milk, instead opting for a berry mix and white chocolate chips. One try is all it takes to be hooked on this amazing breakfast.
Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls by A Baking Journey
Just like cinnamon rolls just go with breakfast, chocolate just goes with Valentine’s Day. This Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls recipe combines those two together for a powerful Valentine’s breakfast. This simple recipe makes it easy to recreate a well loved breakfast item which could be perfect for your picky eaters!
Beetroot Light and Fluffy Pink Pancakes by XOXO Belle
Pancakes are an obvious choice for breakfast, but they don’t really scream Valentine’s Day, do they? Well, these Beetroot Light and Fluffy Pink Pancakes fix that problem. Naturally colored by superfood beetroot powder, they are perfect for a day where the pinker, the better.
I hope you loved all these fun ideas. I tried to really find a variety of recipes that can meet the needs of everyone in your family on this special day. I also thought some of these would be fun to make year round and full disclosure the waffle cinnamon roll recipe is 100% here to stay in my house!
If you’re looking for some other Valentine’s Day goodies be sure to check out my post on the best non-toxic valentine’s day gifts to make!
You can also check out my super easy and health fizzy love potion drink!
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What is Manuka Honey?
Authentic Manuka honey is the powerhouse superstar of honey. Manuka honey is a type of honey bees produce when they pollinate a the Manuka bush. The manuka bush or leptospermum scoparium bush, is a tree/bush that grows exclusively in New Zealand and Australia and is what bees use to produce the Manuka honey. This specific type of honey has been found to have many health benefits and healing properties for numerous ailments.
How is it different from regular honey?
Manuka honey has a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO) that has tremendous antibacterial properties. These antibacterial compounds are not found in other types of honey which is what gives manuka honey its superpowers. Higher MGO levels mean greater healing abilities for the honey. When the MGO levels reach a certain concentration the honey is considered the highest quality and medical grade which can then be used to treat severe skin wounds or burns.
What are the health benefits of Manuka honey?
First and foremost, I am not a medical professional so always consult one before following any advice found on the internet. I am highly skilled at research and have obtained a master’s degree, which required extensive research, so those skills are what I am using here. Manuka honey is considered a powerful antibacterial treatment and has medical studies to back its antibacterial abilities and use for medicinal purposes. This study from the 2018 AIMS Microbiology medical journal states there are high levels of antibacterial activity in manuka honey and it can be safely used as a natural antibiotic. They go on to state that it hasn’t been found to have antibiotic resistance like traditional antibiotics and should be studied more for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. There are many more studies in medical journals touting the medicinal properties of genuine Manuka honey. Now you may be thinking ok but what specifically are we talking about, so here is a list of specific health issues manuka honey could help.
- Wound treatment and wound healing
- Oral health; can inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth
- Calm a sore throat
- Stomach ulcers
- Irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive issues
- Acne
- Eczema
- Eye Infections
- Immune system support
- Acid reflux (this is a newer finding and still needs more evidence before its fully supported by the medical community)
What are the different types of Manuka honey?
Manuka honey is typically categorized through the MGO levels because this information is needed depending on what you’ll be utilizing it for. The higher the MGO the more antibacterial components that specific Manuka honey contains. Very high MGO levels are considered appropriate for medicinal purposes such as the wound healing process or natural antibiotic treatment. Lower MGO levels are considered still highly beneficial for daily use to support overall health. There is also something called the unique manuka factor (UMF) that measures the MGO, DHA, and leptosprein in the honey and rates it based on those levels. To be considered therapeutic or medical grade it needs a UMF rating of at least +10. I personally would not be too concerned with the UMF certification rating because the medical community and medical studies have been based primarily on MGO rating; the UMF rating is a new system and not medically supported as of yet. The UMF rating does add an additional layer of assurance for testing and quality but some companies have equally high-quality products but choose not to spend large amounts of money on the UMF certification for their products.
Ok so before we get into the list of the best Manuka honey brands I want to say a few things regarding the work that went into this list. I looked through every brand myself and looked through each company’s about section, certifications, FAQs, and general information available. and certifications. I was literally dreaming about Manuka honey by the time I finished, funny but not a joke haha! I did leave a few popular companies off the list because I did not feel they were producing a quality product or being transparent about their product components. The companies on this list mostly ship worldwide but my focus was to ensure each of these companies shipped to the United States because that is where I am located. I did find a number of high-quality brands that only shipped within New Zealand, therefore they were not added to this list but their absence is not because of quality.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I could get a small commission when you buy a product but it costs you nothing! Thank you for your support.
1. Manukora
Manukora is sourced from New Zealand and has been in the manukora business since 1998. They have high-quality manuka honey with an MGO rating of 200+ all the way to 1123+. I love that this company focuses a lot on sustainability. They package their product in 100% recycled materials, compost, and work towards reforestation and water conservation.
2. PRI Manuka Honey
PRI is a company that partners with beekeepers to source their honey from both New Zealand and Australia. They have been in business since 1987 and have the goal of creating Manuka honey products that are an affordable price and accessible for everyone. They donate a portion of proceeds to save the bees’ foundation and ensure their product is independently tested for quality assurance. They have manuka honey with an MGO of 50+ to 500+.
3. Comvita
Comvita has been around since 1974 and is really focused on creating the highest quality product. They are a smaller company that sources their own products and even has a link to their individual beekeepers on their page. They do take part in the UMF ratings if you’re interested in that extra rating system. They offer manuka honey with an MGO of 50+ to 829+.
4. Wedderspoon
Wedderspoon has a wide variety of manuka products that are all sourced from New Zealand. They partner with several non-profits and have been featured in a lot of popular media sources. They do not list the MGO rating on any of their products and seem to be geared more towards general consumption versus healing benefits.
5. Manuka Health
Manuka Health started as a small business in a small town in New Zealand, where they are still based today. They house their own bees and employ their own workers to keep everything in-house. On their website, they state they were pioneers of the MGO testing and discovery. They have extensive endorsements including non-GMO, UMF rating system, halal certifications, and many more. They focus on regenerative practices for the environment and sustainability as well. Their manuka honey has an MGO range of 263+ to 700+. Manuka health is the real deal and is focused on all the right aspects of a responsible, ethical business in today’s world.
6. Wild Cape Honey
Wildcape manuka honey has been around for 40 years and one factor that makes them highly unique is that only harvest from the east cape region only making them a single source honey. They work with 15 full-time beekeepers and maintain close relationships with them making them closer to a small business than some of the other larger cooperations on this list. They have numerous professional certifications including the UMF certification for their honey. Their products range from MGO 263+ to MGO 829+.
7. New Zealand Honey Company
The New Zealand honey company harvests their raw Manuka honey from all over New Zealand and has a tracking system that can track each bottle back to the exact hive it was extracted from. They have numerous professional certifications including the UMF certification and non-GMO verified as well. They package their products in 95% recycled materials making them very eco-friendly. My favorite part of this company is their transparency, they share the labs they get their products tested through, the exact materials in their packaging, and all their certifications from their various organizations.
8. Yobees Honey
Yobees was founded in 2013 and is a small family-owned business. They do not detail their certifications, testing process, or values on their page but appear to be UMF certified as it does appear on their bottles. They state their honey is pure New Zealand Manuka honey. Their products are labeled UMF 8+ to UMF 20+. I love that they are family owned but would prefer some more transparency on the work that goes into their products.
9. Happy Valley Manuka Honey
Happy Manuka has been in the commercial business realm since 1990 after 30+ years of personal beekeeping. They have numerous professional certifications including the UMF certification but do not detail all the specifics. They also state they regularly test their product and soil for purity and quality. Their honey is raw, unfiltered, and organic to offer the highest outstanding nutritional value. They offer an MGO 50+ honey that is a really great value and coming from a company that has such high standards is clearly a great choice. They also offer their UMF line of Manuka honey ranging from 5+ to 20+ UMF.
10. Bees and Trees
Bees and Trees was founded in 2009 by an American, Mike Everly, who was living in New Zealand for a few years at a time. He keeps the hives in highly remote locations in a specific region of New Zealand. Al batches of raw honey are tested through a lab to ensure authenticity. They do not appear to have as many certifications as some of the other companies but offer honey with MGO 350+ to 830+.
11. Manuka Doctor
Manuka Doctor appears to have been founded commercially in 2011 with the launch of their Manuka skincare line. They offer a hive-to-home promise so you can trace every product back to the hive it came from. Manuka doctor has a wider range of products than some of the other companies with their own skincare line and supplement line, which are infused with pure Manuka honey. They offer an MGO 35+ to MGO 1025+. They also offer a discount on their supplements if you buy their Manuka honey.
12. Onuku Honey
This company sources its product from local Maori people in New Zealand through a land trust process. They have the UMF authentication and a tracking system for quality assurance of their products. They don’t have a ton of information on their certifications or authentication process however which I wish they elaborated a bit on. They offer an MGO rating of 83+ to 1200+.
13. Manuka South
If you are looking for a luxury brand then Manuka South is it. They truly are doing things the right way and creating a high-quality product with a focus on sustainability, which in our failing climate is critical. They were founded in 1988 and are still family owned/operated today. They have regular honey, drops, bee pollen, and royal jelly products available. Their honey ranges from MGO 83+ to MGO 1835+. They have a limited reserve collection that is in absolutely beautiful packaging with very high UMF and MGO ratings but does come with a higher sticker price.
14. Alpha Honey Health
Alpha honey health has a variety of skin care products with only one true raw Manuka honey product. This line seems to be more superficial and less focused on the healing and health benefits than others. Many of their products are infused with Manuka honey but there is no medical evidence that infused products carry the same benefits. Their one true Manuka product is well-priced with an MGO rating of 100+.
15. Melora Life
This company is all about the quality and assurance of its product. They have multiple certifications including the UMF certification. They also sell Manuka oil which they’ve led the way in creating a higher standard and quality assurance mark. Their Manuka honey ranges from MGO 185+ to 525+. Their product price ranges from $21.99 to $43.99.
16. Good Natured
This brand is one of the few that has Australian-sourced Manuka honey. They sell their products on Amazon and state they have independent lab testing and high standards with a certification from the Australian Manuka Association. Their products range from MGO 100+ to 1200+.
17. Steens Honey
Steens is another New Zealand based Manuka honey company. They have traceability features on their honey, UMF certification, and a really large selection of a variety of Manuka honey. They have products ranging from MGO 120+ to 829+. You can get both UMF and non UMF certified products as well. Their prices range from $11.00 to $121.00.
18. Mount Somers
Mount Somers is a high-quality New Zealand sourced brand that has numerous certifications. It was founded in 2016 and it is still locally owned and operated. They offer UMF-certified honey ranging from a UMF 5+ to 24+. Their prices range from $26.00 to $59.00.
19. Kiva
Kiva is a brand that sources its Manuka honey from New Zealand like many of the others on the list. They are not as transparent as others about their certifications, testing, and process but mention they submit to each on their about page. Kiva is also focused on other superfoods and has a number of other supplements and powders to purchase as well. Their honey ranges from MGO 83+ to 1122+, with a starting price of $14.99 to $199.00.
20. Manuka Emporium
This is a brand that produces small-batch honey and only creates each batch from one region never mixing kinds of honey which creates a monofloral Manuka honey, meaning the bees use just one plant to pollinate and make their honey. They state that this practice as well as the placement of hives and care creates a superior bold flavor. They have numerous certifications and assurances to support their superior product claims. They sell honey with an MGO rating of 100+ to 263+ with a price range of $23.99 to $32.99.
21. Puriti
This company was founded in just 2018 but is striving to truly create a high-quality product. They have numerous certifications including the UMF certification and non-GMO certification. They produce everything in New Zealand, as well as test and ship their products from there. They truly believe in the medicinal uses of their products they offer and that reflects in their high range of MGO ratings. Their products ranged from MGO 100+ to 1722+ which is the second-highest rating in any of the brands. Their prices range from $19.99 to $1499.00.
22. Three Peaks Manuka Honey
This company started in 2009 with just 400 hives and now has over 8500 hives they take care of across New Zealand. They have numerous certifications including the UMF and allow for their products to be traced back to the source. They offer a Manuka honey ranging from the least UMF rating of 6+ to the highest UMF 20+. Their prices are on the higher end because they believe in the quality of their Manuka honey.
23. 100% Pure New Zealand Honey
This company was founded in 1996 and offers Manuka honey as well as other different kinds of New Zealand sourced honey. They infuse some with flowers and flavors to create really unique products. They do have a trace system to follow your honey back to the source and various certifications including the UMF certification. Their products range from an MGO 83+ to 1200+.
I hope you found this list helpful in selecting the perfect Manuka honey for you! Please let me know which brand is your favorite in the comments. If you are looking for a recipe to use your Manuka honey in be sure to check out my honey-lime grape recipe.
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What ingredients are in these jalapeno poppers?
-Jalapeño peppers; using fresh jalapeños is important because they give the extra crunch you want once these are cooked.
-Green onion; these are chopped extra small and give a nice extra flavor element to the poppers.
-Crispy bacon; I use thick cut bacon and make it before I prepare this recipe but could use some kind of pre-made crumbs if thats what you have.
-Cream cheese; I prefer the flavor of regular full fat cream cheese but the lower fat varieties could work well too.
-Mozzarella Cheese; I buy pre-shredded to speed up my prep-time.
-Sharp cheddar cheese; I also buy pre-shredded for these cheese as well because it cuts down on the cleaning and prep time.
-Garlic powder; I like to use organic garlic powder but whatever you have on hand words.
-Onion powder; I also like to use organic onion powder but again whatever onion powder you have works.
-Panko bread crumbs; these are optional but really take this tasty treat up a notch.
What materials or equipment is needed to make this this recipe?
Sharp knife; you need a sharp to slice your Jalapeno peppers evenly down the middle.
Cutting board; a cutting board is recommended so you do not damage your countertops or chip a plate by cutting on that.
Gloves; I highly recommend you wear gloves when dealing with the fresh Jalapenos.
Parchment paper; I use parchment paper in my air fryer for easy clean-up and to avoid having to clean it every time I use it. This is optional but if you choose to use it just cut or fold the parchment paper to fit your air fryer. You also want to wait until the air fryer is preheated to put the paper in or else it could get sucked up and cause a fire/burning situation.
Small bowl; this is used to mix all your ingredients together and any kind of bowl will work; depending on if you are doubling the recipe or not you may need to utilize a medium bowl instead.
How to make these air fryer jalapeño poppers?
One of the best things about this easy recipe is that it comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time and only uses a few items with little clean up needed. In my opinion the hardest part of this is coring the jalapeno halves and remembering to leave your cream cheese out for a bit so it is at room temperature when you’re ready to make the cream cheese filling.
First thing to do is cut the top off of each of your Jalapeno’s.
Next cut them in half length wise and use a spoon to remove seeds and the membranes of the pepper. Its important to use the spoon downward away from your face/eyes so any juice sprayed hits your counter and cutting board.
Next you’ll combine the remainder of the ingredients in a mixing bowl; softened cream cheese, chopped chives, shredded cheeses, pre-cooked bacon crumbles, onion powder and garlic powder.
This last step is optional depending on if you are really looking to make these keto jalapeno poppers or just general low-carb ones. I place each halve cream cheese mixture side down into panko bread crumbs. This gives them an extra golden brown crunch once cooked.
Is there anything I can substitute in these jalapeno poppers?
These are actually pretty easy to customize if you continue to follow the same amounts as listed in the recipe. You can change the cheese amounts to your liking, spices and even try a different type of bread crumb.
Easy Three Cheese Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients
- -4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- -6 Jalapenos cut lengthwise and cored
- -2 slices cooked bacon, crispy 1/4th cup
- -1/4th cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- -1/4th cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- -½ tsp garlic powder
- -1/4th tsp onion powder
- -1/4th tsp salt
- -1/8th tsp pepper
- -2 green onions, diced
- -1/4th cup panko bread crumbs
Directions
- To prepare jalapenos, start by wearing gloves and removing the stems of each jalapeno. Cut the jalapeno in half lengthwise from the top to the bottom. Use a spoon to remove the seeds and white membrane as much as possible.
- Chop bacon into small pieces, a little larger than a pencil eraser.
- Mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, onion powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, bacon, and green onions together.
- Use a spoon to fill each jalapeno halve to the edges with cream cheese mixture, pressing down to compact the mixture some.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees.
- Pour panko crumbs into a flat plate. Dip each jalapeno, cream cheese side down, into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place jalapenos in a single layer into your air fryer.
- Cook jalapenos for 5-8 minutes at 375 degrees.
Let me know if you tried this recipe by commenting below! If you are looking to try some other simple recipes be sure to check out the good eats section of my site for tons of delicious foods!
I love using marinara sauce in a wide variety of recipes. It works in pastas, pizzas, and on veggies. It can be easily stored and is super nutritious. I have my go to store bought brands but there is something about fresh tomatoes that takes this up a notch. I am still all about simple so I promise this is an easy recipe that anyone can nail on the first try!
What ingredients do you need?
Tomatos, roma tomatoes work best but beefsteak, on the vine or other varieties can work as well.
Garlic is a necessity and something that is often very taste driven. I like garlic a lot so I add 5 cloves but if you’re not a huge fan go with 3 cloves.
Chicken broth helps add to the liquid content in this recipe. I like to choose low sodium for the health benefits but also because I add salt so I don’t want too much of a salty punch.
Onion give more flavor to this recipe. I use a yellow onion but white would work fine too.
Basil gives the fresh herb hit that brings this recipe to the next level.
Olive oil gives this recipe the fat balance that makes it pair perfectly.
Balsamic vinegar adds a really yummy depth of flavor and another acidic punch to the recipe which I absolutely love.
Salt and pepper help build the flavor profile for this recipe as well. I like to use Himalayan pink salt for the health benefits
What if I am missing an ingredient?
So I like to make recipes that are more flexible and can still work if some ingredients need to be substituted or left out. Obviously you won’t get the exact intended results but it’ll still be edible and hopefully still yummy.
Balsamic vinegar can be left out but really does add a lot of flavor so if you have it I wouldn’t skip it!
Olive oil can be subbed for another oil but olive oil is traditional in marinara and has a mild flavor and is touted for its health benefits. I would maybe sub avocado oil but really think twice about subbing any heavier oils.
Garlic and onions are really needed in this recipe but if you are in a pinch sub them for the dry versions. I would add 1/2 TBSP of each to begin with and then see if more is needed from there.
Tomatoes can obviously not be subbed but you could use canned tomatoes and get a similar taste.
Basil in the fresh form takes the whole thing up a notch but I know its not always easy or affordable. For the future look into growing your own because its one of the easiest herbs to grow but for the now using the dried herb version can give a similar effect. I would start with 2 tsps and then see how the flavor is.
What equipment do I need to make this?
The equipment needed is pretty minimal here. You need a knife to cut your onion and tomatoes, a pot to cook everything in, a spoon to stir while cooking and a burner to do the cooking. If you aren’t a super star in the kitchen measuring spoons for the spices are good thing to use until you start to train your eye on a tsp, tbsp and what not.
I have really enjoyed this dutch oven from Joanna Gaines line. Its heavy duty, non-stick and heats evenly. You can grab it here. *Note this is an affiliate link and while it doesn’t cost you anything to use I may earn a small commission which helps support my page, thanks!
Tips and tricks to be successful.
Don’t burn it! If the pot you are using isn’t ceramic or non-stick be sure you stir frequently to avoid burning. Another easy way to burn this is to have your heat to high. You want it to lightly boil but don’t want it so high its bursting and spraying sauce out of the pot.
Be cautious of the salt content. If you use canned tomatoes and broth that has a lot of sodium adding even more salt will make this super salty.
Don’t spend to much time cutting tomatoes. They are going to be blended at the end so perfect symmetrical cuts isn’t necessary at all and will just waste your time!
Taste as you go! This took me forever to learn but it helps you develop your kitchen skills with each recipe. When you taste after adding each ingredients it helps you see how those flavors add to the dish and if more of something is needed right then versus tasting at the end and wondering what is lacking.
Balsamic Marinara from Scratch
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 TBSP Balsamic glaze
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8-10 whole Roma tomatoes, cut into 4ths
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 16 fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Directions
- Add a small amount 1-2 TBSP of olive oil to the bottom of your pot. Turn heat to medium. Once oil sizzles when an onion piece is placed inside you are ready to add the rest of the onions.
- Add all onions to hot oil and cook until they are a shiny translucent color. This should take 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they are not burning.
- Add tomatoes, garlic, salt and chicken broth. Cook for about 20 minutes.
- Add olive oil, balsamic glaze, and torn basil leaves to pot. Cook another 10 minutes.
- Allow sauce to cool slightly and add to blender. Blend until smooth.
Let me know how you liked this marinara sauce and what you had it with! If you are looking for some of my other recipes be sure to check out my the good eats section of my blog where I post all the recipes I’m loving!
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What ingredients do I need to make honey lime frozen grapes?
You only need 3 very simple ingredients for this recipe.
- Grapes-Any variety grapes will do. If you have a killer sweet tooth using the cotton candy or candy grape variety will give these grapes and extra sweet kick. If you’re like me and love the sour using green grapes is a good choice for that less sweet, more sour taste.
- Honey-Again any honey will do. I personally like to use local raw honey because of all the extra benefits it has.
- Lime juice-You can use regular limes, key limes or finger limes for this. If you use regular limes you’ll only need one lime but the other varieties will probably not yield as much juice and you’ll need 2-3 of those varieties.
What equipment do I need to make honey lime frozen grapes?
- Freezer-The most necessary item to make honey lime frozen grapes is a freezer! If you do not have access to a freezer you should wait until you do as that is a key component for recreating this.
- Bowl-I used this for easily mixing ingredients. I’m sure you could use a variety of bowl like items or even a plastic bag to mix the ingredients together.
- Sheet pan- This was used to put the grapes to be frozen on in one single layer in the freezer.
- Parchment paper- This was put on the sheet pan to allow help with the grapes not sticking to the metal sheet pan when they frozen. It helps with easy clean up too!
- Measuring spoon- I used a tablespoon measuring spoon to portion out my honey for this recipe. This is not necessary and you can totally just eyeball the amount if you don’t have access to measuring spoons.
How do I make honey lime frozen grapes?
This recipe is so simple to make. You start with your grapes by ensuring they are washed and dried. The drying helps your honey and lime stick a little better. The juice your lime into your honey mixture and mix those with a spoon until combined. After you’ve got your honey and lime nice and mixed you spread that over your grapes. Using your hand or a spoon you toss the grapes
Frequently Asked Questions about Honey Lime Frozen Grapes
Can I just freeze them in the bowl I mix the ingredients in? This isn’t a good idea. They all clump together when they freeze and you’ll be prying frozen grapes off other frozen grapes to get a bite size portion.
Can I use agave or another sweetener? I have used stevia in place of the honey and it turned out really well. I haven’t used agave but assume it would probably work ok in this recipe.
How long do these last? You can store these in the freezer for 6-12 months. Of course with any frozen food it is best to consume them sooner rather than later as the quality begins to go down after a certain period.
Honey Lime Frozen Grapes
Ingredients
- 3 cups grapes
- 1 lime
- 1 TBSP honey
Directions
- Wash grapes and ensure they are mostly dry
- Mix your honey and lime juice together
- Pour the mixture over the grapes and mix throughly
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper
- Pour grapes onto baking sheet and freeze for at least 3 hours
- Remove grapes from baking sheet and put in container with a lid to store
This is one of my favorite cocktails. The fresh ingredients make me feel like its actually healthy, which drinking alcohol as we all know isn’t necessarily the best, but sometimes you gotta live a little. I would say its perfect for summer but its packed with vitamin C so it’s great for cold and flu season too!
I like the ease of the recipe and that the ingredients can be very forgiving. It is not super sweet which I enjoy but if you need it sweeter the original recipe that this was inspired from adds some sweetener. You can find that recipe here.
I like using pink Himalayan salt and a juicer but you can use regular salt and just squeeze with your hands!
Let me know if you try this and I hope you enjoy!
A few notes
- If you do not have a cocktail shaker, just add ingredients to a tall glass and mix with a spoon!
- You can slice a lime wedge or a grapefruit wedge to add to your rim for decoration
- Rolling your grapefruit and lime on the counter (while they are whole) before juicing makes it way easier to juice
If you enjoy this be sure to check out some of my other recipes!
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I like to add a fun reusable straw and some strawberries cut into heart shapes (on a good day, on a bad day just blend and drink haha)! These little food cutters are really cute and I like to use them for special occasions. I know some Moms use them on repeat for lunches but I’m not that Mom so special occasions it is over here!
So this recipe is pretty forgiving and easy to use what you have on hand!
You’ll need a blender to make this super easy but its not 100% necessary. Ok get to creating!
A few notes on this. I really like to use Cara Cara oranges, because they are super delicious but they also have a deeper color that makes this drink more of red than an orange color.
You can use any blender but I absolutely love my Nutribullet! Click here to grab yours! *This is an affiliate link*
I used an Italian Mineral Water that I found at Aldi any carbonated water will do! I use this for the fizz but also because it doesn’t have any artificial ingredients or added sugar. If you are ok with added sugar you could also do a club soda or other clear soda. Don’t skip this though because this is what takes it from smoothie to fun fizzy potion!
For the strawberries I know you can leave the tops on for added nutrition but I cannot bring myself to do this. I really don’t like but I am working on getting used to it because I like the idea of less waste and more nutrition. For this recipe though I am recommending to cut them off but you are more than welcome to reap the benefits of dropping the whole berry in!
Recipe
This drink makes 2 Servings! The exact measurements depend on the size of your oranges and strawberries.
- 4 Cara Cara Oranges
- 1 Cup Strawberries
- 1/2 Cup Carbonated Mineral Water
- Ice
- Blender
Step 1: Peel your oranges and put them in a blender.
Step 2: Wash your strawberries, cut the tops off and then put them in the blender with the oranges.
Step 3: Blend them all together until they turn to a liquid.
Step 4: Pour the contents from the blender through a strainer into a cup.
Step 5: Add the carbonated water to the cup and mix with a spoon.
Step 6: Enjoy your love potion!
It also contains some ingredients such as yellow 5, red 40, and blue 1 which have been found to be contaminated with benzidine or other carcinogens.
On top of all that yuck, sugar is also know to cause serious dental issues in both children and adults! It also causes your skin to age prematurely making you look older than you actually are! So lets agree that slowing our roll on the amount of sugar we ingest is a good idea!
Giving up candy would suck though so instead of kicking candy to the curb, why not just choose smart brands that use non-toxic, real ingredients!
So inserting a little disclaimer here guys, this stuff is still candy! Some of it has ingredients that while non-toxic, they are manufactured in a lab. So obviously if you want something totally healthy, eat a piece fruit, am I right?
So remember, kinda natural Mama here is always going to choose to have some candy here and there.
Here is my go to list for healthy low or no sugar, all natural candy!
*This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission if you buy! This helps support me to continue developing resources for you and I am truly appreciative, thank you!*
Zollie Candy
Zollie Candy is an awesome small business created by a Dad and daughter duo! Their candy is vegan, all-natural, and sugar-free. They also have a charitable organization that educates students on tooth decay and gives back to the community! Bundle with 6 or more products to save 20%. This candy has good ingredients, gives back to charity and tastes amazing, win-win-win! You can grab some treats for as low as $3.50 or get big bundles and save!
Essential Candy
These are like the superhero’s of candy! They are fun candies but also target different health ailments with all natural ingredients and essential oils. They also have a CBD line that you can order candy from as well. These do also contain sugar but it is all organic and only 2g per candy. Heck you probably need these for when you eat too much of all the other candy! You can grab a bag for between $12-15 dollars from their website.
Beyond Good
Beyond Good makes some bomb chocolate but they also are doing a ton of humanitarian work to fix the broken industry that surrounds chocolate. Cocoa farmers are paid wages that perpetually keep them in overly and beyond good has vowed to pay 3x the industry standard and work to create healthy lasting relationships with their farms. You can grab a 6 bar gift set for 24.99 if you double up and spend over $40 you get free shipping too!
Smart Sweets
This brand is woman created and owned! Their phrase is kick sugar, keep candy which I can totally get down with! All their products do contain sugar but its a minimal amount, I am all about moderation and their products let you enjoy without that massive hit of sugar like traditional candy. They also contain high quality, well researched ingredients! They are pretty easy to locate and even in your local target. Prices for a package start at just under $3 a bag.
Yum Earth
This brand is also really good and easy to find! I’ve tried many of their products and regularly use their peppermints for after meals or upset stomach! They are sold in a ton of local places making them a quick grab if you’re short on time! They have organic ingredients, are vegan and contain no artificial coloring. I did include this brand as last because they do have moderately high sugar at closer to 3/4g for a piece of the candy. Yum earths products start around $4 a bag and go up for different things.
I strive to consistently make better choices about products, food and my overall lifestyle. A big part of this for me is reading actual research from peer reviewed sources to ensure that I provide as accurate information as possible!
This is a study called the toxicology of food dyes which discusses their finds on various food dyes regularly used today. Click here for the link if you’d like to read to more!
Which brand did you try or do you have any go to brands you like?
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