I used to think that keeping my gut happy required stocking up on an arsenal of supplements and pricey pills. Every wellness aisle and social media ad seemed to scream that a healthy gut was only one purchase away. I bought into the trend, thinking more bottles meant better health. But after years of trial and error (and some wasted money), I discovered an eye-opening truth: your plate can be your gut’s best friend.
Turns out, nature knows best. The secret to supporting your digestive system doesn’t lie in capsules or powders; it’s in real, whole foods. Think about it: your body was designed to thrive on what comes directly from the earth. When I shifted my focus from supplements to my meals, I noticed an incredible difference in how I felt day to day.
So, what does gut-friendly eating really look like? Let’s break it down:
1. Fiber-Rich Veggies: Vegetables like spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes are powerhouses for your gut. They’re packed with fiber, which helps keep things moving smoothly in your digestive system. Plus, fiber feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, creating a happy and balanced microbiome.
2. Probiotic-Packed Yogurt: A good-quality yogurt is more than just a tasty snack—it’s a source of live cultures that replenish your gut flora. Those little active cultures can help support digestion, boost your immune system, and keep that gut-brain connection on point.
3. Fermented Favorites: Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha might sound trendy, but they’ve been staples in various cultures for centuries. Fermentation adds beneficial bacteria to your diet, helping keep your gut’s ecosystem diverse and thriving. And hey, they’re flavorful too—an easy way to add a tangy kick to your meals.
When I started making these changes, I realized that not only did my digestion improve, but I also felt more energized. Plus, leaning into whole foods meant that my meals were naturally more satisfying and nutritious. No more endless searching for the next supplement trend—just simple, delicious, gut-friendly eats.
So next time you’re planning your meals, think about how you can nourish your gut with real, whole foods. Look at your plate and ask, “Is this fueling my body with goodness straight from nature?” Your gut (and wallet) will thank you for it.
There are so many different ways these days to get in a healthy Hanukkah meal or snack but I'm going for this fun latkes recipe - it has avocado in it which I'm a big fan of as they are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that reduce inflammation and keep you feeling full and satisfied. They’re also rich in essential nutrients like vitamins K, E, and B6, potassium, and fiber, which support digestion, energy, and overall health. 🥑💚
This healthy spin on the classic Hanukkah latke is crispy, satisfying, and full of nourishing ingredients, paired with a creamy, dairy-free avocado herb sauce. Perfect for celebrating while staying aligned with your wellness goals!
Ingredients
For the Latkes:
- 2 large organic sweet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 medium onion, grated
- 2 pasture raised eggs (or flax eggs for vegan: 2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water)
- 3 tbsp almond flour (or another gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp avocado oil or coconut oil (for frying)
For the Avocado Herb Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2–3 tbsp water (to thin as needed)
Instructions
For the Latkes:
- Prepare the Mix:
- Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, onion, eggs (or flax eggs), almond flour, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix well.
Fry the Latkes:
- Heat the avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture, flatten into a pancake, and place it in the hot oil.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
you can bake latkes and I've actually done this and they have tasted good! they do tend to taste better when fried and most years I do a combination of each type!
For the Avocado Herb Sauce:
- Blend the Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Serve:
Plate the latkes warm with a dollop of avocado herb sauce on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
We've been on a cabbage kick right now, think repairing my sister's gut after a hospital delivery and supporting my family's immune system with the BIG difference in weather from living in Florida, Little Rock and then to COLD, way less sun, Chicago.
So why cabbage?
Eating cabbage, whether raw, cooked, or fermented, can nourish your gut and help your immune system stay strong! It is rich in prebiotics to support the good bacteria in your gut, which plays a role in maintaining your overall health and we all need that right now during cold/flu season!
A healthy gut microbiome supports digestion, reduces inflammation, and plays a key role in maintaining overall health. Additionally, fermented cabbage (like sauerkraut or kimchi) contains probiotics that directly add beneficial bacteria to your gut, enhancing digestive health and gut resilience.
Cabbage is a great source of vitamin C too, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps support the production and function of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Green Cabbage (sliced thick)
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF (220ºC) and line a baking sheet with unbleached parchment paper.
- Place the cabbage slices on the baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and pepper and garlic powder
- Using a brush or your hands, coat the cabbage slices in the mixture. Add to both sides making sure they are well coated.
- Bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through until browned around the edges and crispy. Serve and enjoy!
* you can also just throw the oil and spices on and not mix it in a bowl - totally up to you!
As a busy mom, my days are full! Between taking care of my son, managing work, staying on top of house tasks, and (if I’m lucky) squeezing in a moment for myself, it feels like I’m always on the go. But I’ve found a little secret weapon that keeps me feeling grounded, energized, and ready to take on the day—essential oils.
Essential oils are such a simple way to bring in moments of self-care and support my body and mind. They’re not just about nice smells; they actually support everything from my immune system to my emotional health. Here are some ways I incorporate them into my daily routine that you can try too!
1. Peppermint Oil Wake-Up Call
If I need an extra boost in the morning (and let’s face it, I always do!), I add a few drops of peppermint oil to the shower. The steam from the hot water mixes with the peppermint, creating a refreshing, spa-like experience that wakes me up and leaves me feeling alert. It’s the quickest way to kickstart my day.
2. Citrus Oils for Energy in the Kitchen
I love popping a diffuser in the kitchen or living room with a few drops of citrus oils, like lemon or orange. These oils are known for their uplifting and energizing properties, and they help give me a natural energy boost while I’m preparing breakfast or running around the house. Plus, they make the whole space smell fresh and inviting!
3. On-the-Go Support with a Rollerball Blend
For moments when I need a quick reset on the go, I keep a rollerball of my favorite essential oil blend in my bag. Whether I’m sitting in traffic, at the grocery store, or taking my son to the park, a quick swipe on my wrists or neck gives me a boost and keeps me grounded.
4. Immune-Boosting Fall Cleaner
Young Living’s fall-scented cleaner has become a household favorite! It not only keeps my home smelling like autumn (yes, please!), but it’s also made with oils that help support our immune systems. So, while I’m tackling housework, I know I’m also helping keep us healthier.
5. Lavender for a Calm Night
After a long day, winding down can be a challenge for everyone in the family. I like to end our day by diffusing lavender in the bedroom to create a calm, peaceful atmosphere. The soothing scent helps us all relax, making bedtime routines a little smoother and helping me get the rest I need.
These small, intentional tweaks fit seamlessly into my packed schedule, offering moments of calm, energy, and wellness when I need them most. So, if you’re looking to add a little more balance to your busy day, try adding essential oils into your routine! Which one will you try first?
Ever feel like taking care of yourself always ends up at the bottom of the list? Between chasing toddlers around the house, constant diaper changes, and squeezing in work during nap time, it’s easy to let your health slide. You might think, "I’ll get to me later." But here's the truth I’ve learned: gut health is everything. And it doesn't have to be complicated.
I used to feel like I was constantly running on empty—exhausted, foggy, and short-tempered. You know the feeling, right? That overwhelming tiredness that just makes everything harder. I felt like I wasn't showing up as the best version of myself, either for my family or my business. But after I started focusing on simple, nourishing foods and supporting my gut health, I noticed a huge difference. I had more energy, felt clearer, and, honestly, was way more patient.
Here’s the thing—prioritizing your gut doesn’t mean overhauling your entire life. It’s all about small, manageable changes that fit into your busy mom life. I want to share three super easy, gut-friendly tips that have worked wonders for me, and I bet they’ll help you too.
1. Start your day with warm lemon water
Before the day even gets crazy, start with a little something just for you. Warm lemon water helps with digestion and can set a calm tone for the day. It’s like a mini reset button before all the chaos kicks in.
2. Swap one processed snack for a gut-boosting option
I get it. Grabbing something quick is necessary when you’re juggling a hundred things at once. But small swaps can make a big impact. Try something like apple slices with almond butter and chia seeds. It’s super easy, takes seconds to prep, and will leave you feeling nourished instead of sluggish.
3. Take a few deep breaths before meals
We’ve all been there—eating in a rush while multitasking. But taking just a few deep breaths before a meal can help your body shift into “rest and digest” mode, making it easier for you to absorb nutrients. It’s a small moment of mindfulness that can do wonders for your digestion.
You don’t have to overhaul your whole life to feel better. Small, intentional shifts make a huge difference. You deserve to feel amazing while being the supermom you are. Start with these three simple changes and see how much better you feel—not just for yourself, but for your family and your goals too.
