Quinoa

Health Nuts (also from Yoga Journal Magazine)

Nut/Serving Size Almonds (1 oz/about 23)
Good Because: Loaded with calcium and antioxidants.
Who Knew? One serving has nearly half the recommended daily allowance of vitamin E and as much antioxidant power as a cup of green tea.



Nut/Serving Size Hazelnuts (1 oz/about 20)
Good Because: Rich in immunity-boosting antioxidants and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.
Who Knew? Hazelnuts are also high in tryptophan, the amino acid that's the precursor to sleep-inducing serotonin and melatonin. Eating a few before bed might help you fall asleep.



Nut/Serving Size Pistachios (1 oz/about 45)
Good Because: Packed with the antioxidants lutein and beta carotene, which reduce cholesterol.
Who Knew? One study concluded that eating three servings a day could reduce the effects of physical and mental stress on blood pressure.



Nut/Serving Size Walnuts (1 oz/about 14)
Good Because:The most significant nut source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Who Knew? Omega-3s boost the immune system and promote heart health. A half serving contains a little more than the recommended daily value.



Nut/Serving Size Pecans (1 oz/about 20)
Good Because: Great source of fiber and antioxidants.
Who Knew? One serving has the same amount of fiber as a medium-size apple.

Insight

"As children, our lives should support balanced growth and development of the body and mind. As adults; protect our health and promote our ability to be productive in the world. And as seniors; help us maintain health and inspire a deeper quest for self-realization."

(I read this in Yoga Journal Magazine)

Almond Milk

Almond Milk
Makes 3 servings

1/2 cup almonds, skins removed and soaked overnight
3 cups water
1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
Pinch salt
1 teaspoon flax oil

Place the nuts, water, sweetener, salt, and oil in a blender and blend until smooth.
If it's still chunky, either continue to blend or strain the liquid through cheesecloth, then serve.

*Almonds are a powerhouse of protein and are high in monounsaturated fat, they also contain some polyunsaturated fats. Other nutrients that they provide are fibre, Vitamin E, calcium, zinc, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, phosphorous, iron and copper.

Here is another recipe that I found online. Both of these recipes are considered to be very "cleansing" for the body. It is also recommended that you peel the almonds after soaking them..only takes a few minutes.

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups of raw almonds
4 cups of filtered or spring water
3-5 dates (optional)

Directions:

1. Soak almonds in water for at least six hours.

2. Drain soaked almonds, and blend with 4 cups of fresh water until you get a milk-like consistency. Blend with dates if you like your milk with a hint of sweetness.

3. Strain once to remove almond granules.

The result is a delicious, creamy milk that's free of added oils, concentrated sugars, and synthetic nutrients. This all-natural almond milk keeps for 3-4 days in an air-tight jar in the refrigerator.