Brandy Augustine

Compromised gut health has repercussions beyond the gut -- allergies, diabetes, etc. Intestinal microflora make up 75% of your immune system. Disruptions impact your overall health. A leaky gut barrier abnormally retains toxins and sparks a heightened immune response, often leading to autoimmune diseases. Avoid antibiotics and refined foods. Supplement with probiotics.

Coconut milk has essential fats and assists in gut repair and cleansing. Ginger and Turmeric added to the soup have strong antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, anti-fungal and immune boosting properties. Bone broth is rich in minerals, amino acids and collagen required for healing and repair. Parsley and Cilantro, used for topping, are great cleansing herbs.

Make sure you stay hydrated to avoid unnecessary snacking. Stick to your daily workout by breaking in smaller 10 min intervals. Carry healthy snacks in your handbag and keep some in your desk drawer at work. Find time to indulge in a nice massage, warm bath, sauna or volunteer for social causes that calms your mind and body.

Make sure you eat breakfast, drink lemon water before meals, indulge in veggies, soups and salads, take small portions of desserts and limit alcohol and high calorie beverage consumption. Wear form-fitting clothes and plan outdoor games with your family. Consume digestive enzymes to prevent gas, bloating and constipation.

I personally love granola and enjoy both its health and taste benefits alike. Its an anytime snack and is packed with healthy ingredients. As I was experimenting I managed to put together this amazing granola recipe that is healthy, gluten free and yummy. This recipe can be prepared with variations as well, feel free to use cocoa to create a chocolate version. To get the complete recipe swipe left!

Stress and anxiety are experienced on an everyday basis. There are ways to control your stress levels with the help of a few simple steps. Deep controlled breathing, inhaling lavender/citrus oils, positive verbal affirmations, regular exercise, sipping on chamomile tea, self-acupressure and listening to desirable music can drastically drop your stress levels instantly. So the next time you are feeling really stressed, just quickly take to one of these activities to stay calm.

Delicious maca is the fertility wonder food! Not familiar with maca? This once unknown root to current western civilization is just beginning to gain...

Maca: works as an adaptogenic herb which means that it adapts to each body’s circumstances and balances hormones. Red Raspberry Leaf: increases fertility, prevent miscarriage. Vitex: balance the body's hormones by regulating the pituitary. Milk Thistle: liver cleansing herb. Oatstraw: balance the endocrine system or those hormone producing glands.