Zero Proof for Summer Skin

Fresh fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that soothe inflammation and clear pores. Antioxidants reduce free radical damage in all areas of the body and help skin look smoother and younger. Vitamins A, C, and E boost skin health, elasticity, and luminosity. And an extra dose of hydration keeps everything glowing and supple.

Mix and match fresh ingredients or add in other antioxidant-rich superfoods to make your own elixirs. When it comes to achieving smooth, radiant skin from natural food nutrients, the flavor combinations are endless.

Plus, natural products such as certain vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients may even help boost your skin’s inherent SPF. But that doesn’t mean you should ditch the sunscreen! Just rest easy knowing that your skin won't parch under the harsh summer sun.

Spicy ACV Lemonade

Raw apple cider vinegar has long been a skin-clearing staple. Like other fermented foods, ACV contains probiotics that work to keep your gut and digestive system healthy. It’s also believed to support the liver function and flush toxins from the body.

And lemon juice is loaded with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that decreases inflammation. That’s a one-two punch for your skin.

Recipe:

• 2 cups water

• 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• pinch cayenne pepper

• 1 teaspoon honey

• ½ lemon juiced

Instructions: Combine everything in a glass, stir, and drink

Watermelon Lime Spritzer

The miracle ingredient in this skin-clearing elixir is lycopene, a phytonutrient found in bright red fruits like watermelon. Lycopene has long been used in acne products because it helps reduce free radicals, soothes inflammation, and provides protection from environmental toxins that can cause breakouts.

Watermelon is also loaded with vitamin A, which encourages collagen and elastin regeneration, so your skin looks youthful and supple.

Recipe:

• 1.5 cups watermelon

• ½ lime juiced

• 2 slices lime

• 7 leaves mint

• 3 cups water

Instructions: Combine everything in a blender and puree until smooth. Strain out the solids, and enjoy the juice over ice with extra mint leaves for garnish.

Raspberry Aloe Water

Raspberries are anti-inflammatory powerhouses, thanks to flavonoids known as anthocyanins. They slow the signs of aging and reduce inflammation throughout the entire body—even in your skin.

Rich in fiber, they also improve digestion and encourage the body to expel toxins. A teaspoon of beetroot powder adds blood-boosting vitamins like iron and zinc and helps improve circulation. And hydrating, healing aloe vera is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that help protect and repair your skin.

Recipe:

• 1/4 cup raspberries fresh

• ½ teaspoon beetroot powder

• 2 cups coconut water

• 2 leaves aloe vera

Instructions: 1. Combine the raspberries and beetroot powder in a glass. Use a muddler to mash the berries and incorporate the beetroot powder. 2. Add the coconut water, then place the aloe leaves in the glass cut side down, so some of the juice runs into the glass. Either strain out the berries before drinking, or eat them for added beauty-boosting benefits.

12 Ways to Cashew Dip

Cashew Dip is a vegetarian, vegan-friendly dip that pairs perfectly with raw vegetables, crackers, and so much more. This creamy, delicious dip is a perfect appetizer or snack for movie nights, watching the big game (or awards show) or entertaining. Feel free to make it dairy free and gluten free also too!

First start with cashews - salted or unsalted per your liking. Add the cashews to a bowl and cover with hot water. Allow the cashews to soak for at least 10 minutes. Drain the cashews and to a blender cup or food processor. Now the fun part - what to add. Here are some ideas of variations: Pro Tip: If a thinner sauce is desired add more water until the desired consistency is reached.

1. Garlic (raw for the “bite”), olive oil, fresh squeezed lemon juice, honey or agave and water

2. Garlic, nutritional yeast, cumin, chili powder, salt, harissa/hot salsa/hot sauce, etc

3. Milk - cashew/almond,etc, fresh red pepper, nutritional yeast, garlic, fresh squeezed lemon juice, chili powder, salt

4. Fresh squeezed lemon juice, diced onion, oil, cumin pwoder, curry powder, salt

5. Milk - cashew/almond, etc, fresh squeezed lemon, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, dried oregano, dried basil, dried chives

6. Avocados, garlic, soy sauce, fresh squeezed lemon juice, salt, pepper

7. Sun dried tomatoes, garlic, fresh squeezed lemon juice, salt, smoked paprika, olive oil

8. Fresh squeezed lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, onion flake, salt, ground black pepper

9. Maple or date syrup, vanilla, fresh orange peeled

10. Fresh mint leaves, fresh coriander leaves, garlic, salt and pepper

11. Tamari, fresh squeezed lime juice, sriracha, raw honey, sea salt

12. Coconut milk, fresh squeezed lemon juice, pure maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, salt, lemon zest

The possibilities are endless here. We look forward to hearing which combination is your favorite!

Homemade Electrolyte Drinks

After workouts and especially during hot Sun Valley summer months hydration becomes an important topic.  How are you refueling and rehydrating your body?  If you are suspicious of the neon-colored, sugar-loaded options (as you should) on the shelves there’s hope!  Whipping up a homemade electrolyte drink is super easy.

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals that play a role in controlling heartbeat, balancing bodily fluids and sending electrical impulses to muscles in order to coordinate movement.  Sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, phosphate and calcium are the minerals your body relies on most.  If you lose electrolytes faster than you can replenish side effects can include muscle cramping or irregular heartbeat.  Don’t be that guy!  Oh and by the way, food does contain electrolytes too and many of us replenish naturally by drinking water and eating a meal after a rigorous workout.

Let's talk about replenishing your body with natural, whole ingredients without the use of those unnatural dyes and sweeteners. 

Coconut water is an excellent base for a homemade electrolyte drink.  Add your desired amount of water.  Then add 100% natural juice such as orange, lemon, lime, pomegranate or watermelon.  (Fresh squeezed is best!) Tea such as ginger, hibiscus or mint could be added here as an alternative to juice for flavor. Try a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.  Add a natural sweetener such as honey, maple syrup, or sugar-free monk fruit.  Add collagen powder, cream of tartar or other powders/minerals of your liking. Lastly, a pinch of salt. Stir and enjoy.

Happy experimenting!  Let us know what your favorite recipe ends up being!