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Clementine blueberry jam

Nourishing Your Body: A Celebration of Simple and Wholesome Foods

In a world filled with processed snacks and convenience foods, there’s something truly special about preparing and enjoying simple, natural, and wholesome meals. Today, I want to share with you a delightful recipe that celebrates the beauty of whole ingredients: a simple and delicious clementine, blueberry chia seed jam. But before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the health benefits of each ingredient and why it’s important to prioritise plant-based foods in our diets.

Blueberries:


These tiny, vibrant gems are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that offer a plethora of health benefits. Blueberries are renowned for their high levels of anthocyanins, which give them their rich blue colour and help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, they’re a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fibre, which support immune function, bone health, and digestive regularity. Incorporating blueberries into your diet can promote heart health, improve cognitive function, and even aid in weight management.

Clementine Juice:

Freshly squeezed clementine juice adds a burst of sweet, citrusy flavour to this recipe, along with a healthy dose of vitamin C. Clementines are a type of mandarin orange known for their juicy, easy-to-peel segments and bright, refreshing taste. Vitamin C is essential for immune function, collagen production, and wound healing. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. By including clementine juice in your diet, you can boost your immune system, support healthy skin, and enhance iron absorption.

Chia Seeds:


These tiny seeds may be small in size, but they’re mighty in nutritional value. Chia seeds are loaded with fibre, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various micronutrients. When mixed with liquid, chia seeds swell and form a gel-like consistency, making them perfect for creating creamy puddings and smoothies. The fibre content in chia seeds promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness and satiety. Meanwhile, the omega-3 fatty acids support heart health, brain function, and inflammation management. Adding chia seeds to your diet is an easy and delicious way to boost your intake of essential nutrients.

The Importance of Eating Lots of Plants:
Now, let’s talk about why it’s crucial to prioritise plant-based foods in our diets. Plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that nourish our bodies and support overall health. Research consistently shows that diets rich in plant foods are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, plant-based diets are more environmentally sustainable and promote animal welfare.

By incorporating more plant-based foods into your meals, you not only support your own health and well-being but also contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate food system. So, let’s celebrate the abundance of nourishing plant foods available to us and embrace the simple pleasure of preparing and enjoying wholesome meals.

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Now, without further ado, here’s the recipe for our delicious clementine blueberry jam:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed clementine juice
  • 4 teaspoons ground chia seeds

Instructions:

  1. Mix all the ingredients in a pan.
  2. Simmer for 15 minutes or until thickened
  3. Allow to cool.

Enjoy this simple and nourishing clementine blueberry jam as a wholesome breakfast on yoghurt, smothered on scones as a snack or for afternoon tea, or as a base for a dessert. May it fill you with joy, vitality, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of natural, plant-based foods. Here’s to nourishing your body and soul with every delicious bite!

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Thanks for stopping by, have a beautiful day.

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Embracing Age with Confidence: Why Anti-Aging is a Myth

As women over 40, we’re bombarded with messages about staying forever young. From “miracle” creams to invasive procedures, the beauty industry seems determined to convince us that ageing is something to be feared and fought against at all costs. But let’s pause for a moment and challenge this narrative.

I have a bone to pick with the phrase “anti-ageing.” Who could truly be against getting older? Each year brings wisdom, experiences, and growth – things to be celebrated, not erased. Yet, large corporations spend billions trying to convince us that their latest potion, pill, or powder will magically turn back the hands of time. But let’s be real here: those highly marketed anti-aging face creams often deliver nothing but fairy tale false dreams.

Embracing Age with Confidence: Why Anti-Aging is a Myth

Personally, I couldn’t care less about how old I look. What truly matters to me is how old I feel. I believe in embracing my age with confidence and celebrating the journey that has brought me to where I am today. Sure, I wear makeup – not to hide my age, but because it makes me feel good. It’s a form of self-expression, a way to enhance my natural features, and yes, it helps cover up some scarring from when I was burned in a fire.

For me, lipstick is my go-to cosmetic. There’s something empowering about swiping on a bold shade and facing the world with confidence. Whether it’s a classic red or a playful pink, my lipstick is my daily reminder that I am strong, resilient, and unapologetically myself. I’ll be wearing my lippy until my expiry date – and even then, who’s to say I won’t rock it in the afterlife?

So, my fellow fabulous women, I want to hear from you: what’s your favorite cosmetic that you simply cannot live without? Whether it’s mascara that makes your lashes pop or a moisturizer that leaves your skin glowing, let’s celebrate the little luxuries that bring us joy and make us feel like the fierce queens that we are.

In a world obsessed with youth and perfection, let’s reclaim the narrative and embrace ageing with open arms. After all, wrinkles are just reminders of a life well-lived, and grey hairs are badges of honour earned through years of laughter, tears, and everything in between. So here’s to growing older, wiser, and more fabulous with each passing day. Cheers to the beauty of ageing gracefully and unapologetically!

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Need variety? Tired of toast?

If you’re looking for variety, there are over 20,000 edibles plants but most people only eat about 9. In a world filled with fad diets and conflicting nutrition advice, one thing remains clear: the importance of a varied diet rich in plants. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a flexitarian, or simply someone looking to improve their overall health, incorporating a diverse range of plant-based foods into your meals is key to thriving.

So, why is it so crucial to eat a variety of foods each day, and why should we focus on different food combinations? Let’s delve into the reasons behind the importance of embracing diversity on our plates.

  1. Nutritional Balance: Each plant-based food brings its own unique array of nutrients to the table. By consuming a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, you ensure that your body receives a broad spectrum of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. This diversity supports overall health and helps prevent nutrient deficiencies.
  2. Gut Health: Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that play a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and even mood regulation. A varied diet promotes a diverse microbiome, which is associated with better gut health. Different plant foods contain different types of fibre, which nourish the beneficial bacteria in your gut and promote a healthy digestive system.
  3. Reduced Risk of Chronic Disease: Research consistently shows that a plant-based diet is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Eating a variety of plant foods provides a wide range of protective compounds that can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and support overall cardiovascular health.
  4. Enhanced Flavour and Enjoyment: Eating the same foods day in and day out can lead to flavour fatigue and boredom. Incorporating a variety of flavours, textures, and colours into your meals not only makes eating more enjoyable but also stimulates your senses and encourages mindful eating.
  5. Environmental Sustainability: Embracing a plant-based diet is not only beneficial for your health but also for the planet. Plant foods generally have a lower environmental footprint compared to animal products. By diversifying your diet with a variety of plant-based foods, you can help reduce the strain on natural resources and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

When it comes to food combinations, mixing and matching different plant-based ingredients can create meals that are not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced. For example, combining beans with whole grains creates a complete protein source, while pairing vitamin C-rich fruits with iron-rich leafy greens enhances iron absorption.

In conclusion, a varied plant-based diet is essential for optimal health and well-being. By embracing diversity on your plate and experimenting with different food combinations, you can nourish your body, support your health, and delight your taste buds. So, let’s celebrate the abundance of plant foods available to us and savour the vibrant flavours of nature’s bounty.

This morning’s breakfast kitchen creation took just a couple of minutes to assemble. I made the granola yesterday for the ‘peach crumble smoothie bowl’, so check that video out too.

I’m here to encourage you to eat more plants with every meal and to make little changes which add up to improved wellness and a healthier lifestyle. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube for the vibe! It keeps me motivated to make more videos.

Thanks for stopping by, have a beautiful day.

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Ageing without limits.

I determined to continue ageing without limits.

Never let your age restrict your capacity for fun or adventure. I prefer to think of the number of levels achieved, rather than years lived, so I’m on level 56 – how about you?

Do you ever feel like society puts an expiration date on fun and adventure once you hit a certain age? Well, let me tell you something: it’s time to rewrite that narrative. Never let your age restrict your capacity for fun or adventure. After all, life is too short to be bound by arbitrary numbers. Instead, let’s focus on the levels we’ve achieved in this grand game of life.

ageing without limits

Embracing Adventure After 50: Why Age is Just a Number

Personally, I prefer to think of myself as being on level 56. Yes, you read that right – levels, not years. Why should we measure our experiences and accomplishments solely by the number of years we’ve been on this planet? Life is about the richness of experiences, the lessons learned, and the memories made along the way. Whether you’re 50, 60, or beyond, there’s no limit to what you can achieve or experience.

Think about it: some of the most incredible adventures happen later in life. It’s a time when you may have more freedom, resources, and wisdom to truly embrace the world around you. Whether it’s traveling to far-off destinations, picking up a new hobby, or simply exploring your own backyard with fresh eyes, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

So, where are you on your journey? What level have you reached? Perhaps you’re just starting out on a new chapter, eagerly anticipating the adventures that lie ahead. Or maybe you’re a seasoned traveler, with a treasure trove of memories to look back on. Wherever you are, embrace it wholeheartedly.

Remember, age is just a number – it doesn’t define you or limit your potential. The only limits that exist are the ones we impose on ourselves. So, let’s shatter those limitations and embrace a life filled with fun, adventure, and endless possibilities.

Whether you’re climbing mountains, learning a new language, or simply laughing with loved ones, never let your age hold you back. Embrace each day as an opportunity to level up and experience all that life has to offer. After all, the adventure is out there – are you ready to seize it?

#aging #agepositive #motivationalwomen #motivationforlife