Health Blog
Health Blog
Weleda's Skin Food - Natural skincare for dry skin
Weleda's award-winning, best-selling Skin Food series has several variants and is very good for normal to dry skin. SKIN FOOD ORIGINAL Skin Food is an award-winning universal cream with a unique blend of natural herbal extracts and plant oils. One of Weleda's oldest and best-selling products and a "must-have" item. The cream provides intensive care for dry skin. It helps the skin strengthen and rebuild its protective barrier while softening and nourishing the skin. It is an all-purpose cream that can be used all over the body. SKIN FOOD LIGHT Skin Food Light is a lighter version of Skin Food. A cream that is thinner in its formulation than the original. It absorbs immediately into the skin and prevents moisture loss. The cream then stays on the skin, protecting it without feeling sticky. Skin Food Light leaves a matte finish on the skin. This lotion has a lovely scent of fresh orange and citrus balanced with calming lavender. The scent does not linger long. Comparison: If you find Skin Food too sticky during the day on, for example, hands and face, Light is the right choice. Skin Food, on the other hand, is preferable for cracks and wounds on the skin that won’t heal. SKIN FOOD BODY BUTTER Skin Food Body Butter is a wonderfully creamy body butter that gives dry skin intensive moisture and care. This body butter is not like whipped shea butter. The texture is fine, more nourishing, and smooth. It neither feels sticky nor oily, just as we want a body butter to be. The skin immediately becomes soft, gains a beautiful glow with a mild and delicious scent of orange and lavender. The scent does not linger long and almost feels fragrance-free after a while. Sensitive noses may detect a faint scent of cocoa and orange. Skin Food Body Butter is free from beeswax and lanolin and is therefore vegan-friendly. Comparison: For those who like to mix a dollop of Skin Food into their body lotion, this body butter is a dream. It gives a beautiful glow to the whole body. Can be used on the face as a day or night cream if very dry. Since Skin Food contains lanolin and zinc, it is better suited for cracked skin. Body Butter is a luxurious experience for really dry skin. SKIN FOOD LIP BALM Skin Food Lip Balm is a creamy lip balm that cares for and adds shine to dry, cracked, and chapped lips. It nourishes the lips, protects them from drying out, and makes them soft and supple again. This is largely thanks to the lanolin. Skin Food Lip Balm is easy to apply and feels comfortable on the lips all day without a sticky feeling! The texture is silky smooth and the lips feel luxuriously soft immediately. This lip balm is free from castor oil. Comparison: Lip balm does not leave a white film like Skin Food does. Those who like Skin Food on their lips will love this lip version. Keep in mind that Lip Balm is zinc-free. Therefore, Skin Food is preferable for cold sores and similar conditions.
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Akamuti's anhydrous skincare: 3 products for winter
We gladly recommend Akamuti’s wonderful products during the winter months, especially their water-free face creams.Many face creams contain a lot of water, and when you are out in biting cold, it can freeze on the skin, which can damage and further dry it out. A water-free cream therefore provides extra protection when spending time outdoors but is also a concentrated and cost-effective skincare option. Akamuti Day Cream Akamuti’s day cream is suitable for dry and/or mature skin. A cream for those who feel their skin has lost its elasticity, looks lifeless, and has lost its glow. Mild apricot kernel oil combined with active evening primrose and raspberry seed oils work together to nourish, care for, and protect the skin. Apricot kernel oil is the base oil in the cream, helping the skin retain its moisture balance and making it soft and supple. Evening primrose oil prevents the skin’s aging process, making it a good anti-aging oil. Raspberry seed oil strengthens the skin, protects against free radicals, and is said to offer some protection against UVA and UVB rays. Essential oils of rose and geranium give the cream moisturizing and soothing properties and a gentle floral scent. Akamuti Night Cream Akamuti’s night cream is richer and more nourishing than the day cream and is suitable for very dry, mature, and sensitive skin. A cream for very thirsty skin that needs extra care. Nutrient-rich avocado and olive oils work together with hazelnut oil to provide the skin with maximum nourishment, care, and a healthy glow. Soothing chamomile and cell-stimulating frankincense give the skin extra care and give the cream a lovely scent. Organic Shea Butter Shea butter is a multifunctional product filled with “good stuff” for the skin. It is moisturizing, nourishing, softening, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Akamuti’s organic shea butter is produced by women’s cooperatives in Ghana. It is a wonderful creamy butter rich in vitamins A, E, and F, unrefined, unbleached, and made using traditional craftsmanship techniques that have been used for thousands of years. A product for extra dry areas of the body and cracked skin or as a lovely body butter that you slowly massage into damp skin. Tips When massaging in a water-free product, it is important that the skin is slightly damp so it can absorb the cream. If you apply it directly to dry skin, it will just sit on top, similar to when you try to water a dried-out plant. Therefore, lightly moisten the skin or your hands and then massage in the cream. What Akamuti stands for Akamuti means “little tree” or “a small piece of medicine” in the Bemba languages of Zambia. In Africa, trees and medicine go hand in hand as ingredients from trees are believed to have healing powers. All of Akamuti’s products are completely handmade and produced in small batches. They operate from a fair trade perspective when sourcing raw materials, as fair prices protect both people and the environment. They aim to promote sustainability from start to finish and are completely against all forms of animal testing. We are very grateful to be able to offer their wonderful products to you.
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Better Bedtime Routines for Children: 5 Practical Tips
Often, children can find all the daily must-dos boring, like having to go to bed. It's almost as if they are allergic to brushing their teeth, brushing their hair, washing themselves, putting on pajamas, and sleeping. There can be a lot of whining, stalling, hide and seek, and arguing. Having good routines is therefore super important as it gives the child a sense of security and they know what to expect. Here we share tips on smart routines that work well at bedtime. Tips for good bedtime routines for children: End screen time 1-2 hours before bedtime. This gives the child time to wind down. Brush teeth the same way every time. Feel free to use a timer so the child can see how long they have brushed their teeth. It helps if children know where to put dirty laundry and where their pajamas are. Turn off the lights or dim them to cozy lighting before bedtime. Read one or more books together in bed or tell a story to your child. More fun routines There are several things you can do to make all these routines more enjoyable. Here are five tips: 1. Hair brushing for children It’s understandable that brushing hair can be boring. It can also hurt if there are knots in the hair. Here, the hairbrush is crucial. A good brush makes an incredibly big difference. Ibero has nice hairbrushes in different sizes that easily detangle both wet and dry hair. Let the child be involved and choose their own hairbrush. 2. Brushing little teeth Brushing teeth is difficult. But it always becomes more fun when you introduce a new toothbrush or toothpaste. Try a bamboo toothbrush, which both looks and tastes different. Bamboo toothbrushes are especially good if the child likes to bite or chew on the brush since it is softer. Also, you don’t have to worry about them ingesting plastic particles. Jack N` Jill’s children’s toothpastes are usually appreciated because they taste good and have a fun design with a colorful cap. The toothpaste comes in strawberry and raspberry flavors. Otherwise, try the yellow Tooth Gel for children, specially designed for cleaning and caring for baby teeth and to preserve the natural balance of the oral flora. A tip is to start early with dental floss to get the child used to it. Make it a habit to floss a few times, preferably every day and at least several times a week. Use a thin dental floss so you can easily get between the teeth or try Humble Brush Floss Picks which can be reused. Good dental and oral health benefits children for life! 3. Showering and bathing When it comes to baths, bubbles are always appreciated. Eco Cosmetics has a bubble bath/bath foam for children that is extra mild and less drying than conventional varieties. For washing, a bar soap is a bit more fun. Especially if it smells nice too. Perfect for dirty feet and hands. Dr. Bronner’s bar soaps are nice and moderately scented. Unscented soaps from Malin i Ratan are perfect for children with sensitive skin. Vermont Soap’s solid organic soaps Shea Butter and Baby Bar are fantastic for children’s sensitive skin. They are based on a low-allergenic vegetable base from organic coconut, palm, olive, and palm kernel oils. The palm oil comes from a small-scale farm and is sustainably grown. Vermont Soap chooses to use sustainable palm oil to support the families who make their living from palm oil cultivation. 4. Skincare for children For children with dry skin, it is important to moisturize after bathing/washing. Here you can choose a cream with a pleasant scent because then children often want to help apply it. Two popular nourishing creams that smell wonderful are Lenelunden Naturprodukter’s Shea Cream with white chocolate/vanilla and Shea Cream Strawberry Temptation. They contain organic unbleached shea butter and organic cocoa butter/shea butter oil, which make wonderful and lovely body creams. For the very youngest, we recommend a cream/lotion without added fragrance that is easy to apply and also suits older children who are sensitive to scents. Or try pure shea butter with no other ingredients. Weleda’s Calendula series suits children who need extra care and relief for their skin. The calendula content helps soothe and relieve dry, irritated, and sensitive skin. Choose from Weleda Calendula Body Cream, which is a slightly thicker, intensely nourishing cream, Calendula Body Lotion, which is a light lotion, or Calendula Baby Oil, which can be used from birth. 5. Falling asleep easier For children who have trouble settling down at bedtime, there is the Humio Humidifier + Lamp + Aroma Diffuser in one. The lamp creates a cozy and calm atmosphere in the bedroom with soft colors that rotate in shades of red, blue, and green. The humidifier can also be used as a nightlight with different colors that slowly change, or you can pause the lamp on your favorite color. You can add different essential oils to the aroma diffuser, and at bedtime, lavender essential oil is perfect as it is relaxing and calming. Do you have good tips on how to make routines more fun for your children? Share in a comment or ask a question and we will answer!
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Seaweed: Nutritional Benefits and 7 Easy Recipes
Seaweed is an excellent source of micronutrients including folate, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and selenium, and it is a very good source of iodine. Seaweed thus supports the thyroid, as iodine is used by the thyroid to synthesize hormones. Additionally, kelp also contains tyrosine, an amino acid that also contributes to the production of thyroid hormones. Seaweed promotes digestion. Kelp is a fiber-rich food, an important nutrient that plays a central role in digestion. In particular, increased fiber intake can help prevent constipation. Seaweed is also said to lower cholesterol levels and stabilize blood sugar levels. Seaweed contains 85% less sodium than table salt. It gets its salty taste from minerals like potassium and magnesium, making it a healthy salt alternative. Common questions about seaweed Aren't algae and seaweed the same thing? The term algae refers to plants that live underwater. This includes everything from microalgae to seaweed and kelp (macroalgae). Algae live in both freshwater and seawater, whereas what we call seaweed only refers to algae living in seawater. Seaweed refers to several species of macroscopic, multicellular marine algae, certain types of red, brown, and green algae. Simply put, they can be divided into green, red, and brown algae. Green algae such as sea lettuce, sea salad, luva, and dunaliella salina. Brown algae like kombu, arame, kelp, wakame, and hijiki, bladderwrack and knotted wrack. Kelp refers to the dried and ground kombu. Several Swedish algae are also edible, including knotted wrack, which grows in calm sea areas. Red algae such as dulse and nori. Blue-green algae include spirulina, AFA algae, and chlorella. Why is seaweed so nutritious? Seaweed contains a unique combination of all 56 vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and trace elements essential for human health, absorbed directly from sunlight and the sea: it is truly a natural, pure superfood. Because the nutrients in seaweed are in their natural form, they are easily absorbed and processed. The harmonious balance of elements in seaweed makes it nutritionally more potent than any other vegetable on land. The nutrients enable each other to function optimally. For example, calcium needs potassium and magnesium to be absorbed naturally: seaweed is high in both. Can you get too much iodine from seaweed? Yes, you can, but you shouldn’t overdo your consumption. However, it’s hard to eat too much seaweed because the flavor is so potent. Be sure to enjoy it in moderation as part of a healthy, well-rounded diet. Boiling seaweed before consumption is an easy way to reduce iodine content. What can I do with my Dulse? Dulse is great for cooking! Dulse can help highlight and enhance the natural flavor of vegetables as it contributes Umami. To get even more vitamins and minerals into a meal, you can sprinkle Dulse flakes on, for example, kale or broccoli. Chefs have always enhanced chocolate flavors with salt, chili, and ginger, and Dulse works just as well. Dulse makes your chocolate more intense in flavor and adds a twist you don’t get every day. Just combine a pinch of Dulse flakes with the other dry ingredients in your brownie or truffle recipe and enjoy. If you love sauces and want to try something a little different, why not try making your own Dulse sauce or dressing? Mexican fans appreciate adding a generous spoonful of Dulse flakes to their guacamole for an incredible flavor and mineral boost. See recipe below. 7 recipes with seaweed 1. Arame marinade 30 g Arame seaweed 1/2 dl tamari 1 large piece of finely grated ginger Juice from one organic lime You can add garlic, chili, pepper, sesame seeds to the marinade, according to your taste cravings of the day. First soak the seaweed for 10 minutes and rinse it, then place it in a large bowl. Mix the marinade and pour over the seaweed. Let stand at least 30 minutes in a cool place. This is a great start for many recipes. You can then mix them into a salad or with vegetables you like, such as this asparagus recipe below. 2. Asparagus and leek with arame marinade Ingredients:1 leek1 bunch of asparagus Remove the tough end of the asparagus, about 2 cm. Cut the asparagus into pieces about 2-3 cm long. When the water starts boiling, blanch them for about 5 minutes. Take them out and rinse under cold water to retain their bright green color. Sauté the leek. Mix it, asparagus, and the cooked arame seaweed (see recipe above) Sauté everything for a few minutes and it’s ready. 3. Miso mushroom salad with arame seaweed Ingredients: 1 head red cabbage, shredded 30 grams Arame (soak the seaweed for 10 minutes first and rinse) 3 carrots, shredded 1/2 – 1 medium jalapeño or habanero pepper 5 dl Shiitake mushrooms (or other mushrooms) cut into longer pieces / marinated Mushroom marinade:1 dl olive oil1 dl tamari1 tsp coconut sugar or date sugarLet the mushrooms marinate for at least 30 minutes. Miso dressing:1 dl light miso1 dl freshly squeezed orange juice1 tbsp maple syrup2 tbsp sesame oil1 garlic clove (peeled/chopped)2 tbsp grated ginger.2 tbsp tamari In a large bowl, combine red cabbage, arame, carrots, and ground hot pepper. Pour over the miso dressing, let rest for a few minutes. Top with marinated mushrooms and a little more dressing before serving. Enjoy eating with chopsticks. 4. Hummus with dulse Ingredients:1 large handful Dulse (should be washed and chopped).5 dl cooked or sprouted chickpeas or mung beans2 tbsp lemon juice Season with salt & pepper Blend everything together. 5. Dressing with kelp Ingredients: 1 dl cashew nuts (soaked) 1 dl water 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp nutritional yeast juice from 1/2 lemon 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tbsp capers (chopped) 1 garlic clove (chopped) 1 tsp tamari 1 tsp kelp powder Blend cashews with water in a powerful blender until like a smooth "cream." Add the rest of the ingredients, blend again until smooth. If the dressing is too thin, add 1/2 tsp chia seeds; if too thick, add more water. Season with salt and pepper. 6. Guacamole with seaweed 1 tbsp Dulse or Sea Salad (Dulse should be washed and chopped). 1 avocado, diced 1 spring onion – chopped 1 tbsp lemon juice 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Blend everything together. 7. Pesto with dulse and coriander Ingredients:2 tsp Dulse4 garlic cloves2 cups fresh coriander, including stems1/3 cup Brazil nuts1/3 cup sunflower seeds1/3 cup pumpkin seeds2/3 cup flaxseed, hemp, rapeseed, or extra virgin oil.4 tablespoons lemon juiceSea salt to taste Wash the coriander well, place it in a food processor with the oil, and process until combined. Add garlic, nuts, seeds, Dulse, lemon juice, and blend into a paste. Season with sea salt and blend again. Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen.
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Create your own home spa with simple DIY recipes
It's easy to create a cozy spa feeling at home. It doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. Take care of yourself and enjoy a wonderful moment at home. Light some candles, play some relaxing music or an audiobook, and pamper yourself. In less than an hour, you will have given your body and mind relaxation and care. Here we share our best tips for your home spa! SPA Bath Bathing has several beneficial effects. During a 20-minute bath, blood circulation is stimulated, muscles relax, and the pores in the skin open to absorb nourishing substances. Another positive effect of bathing is the release of the calming hormone oxytocin, which makes us feel good. Adding bath salt, essential oil, or herbs can enhance the effects and help the body and mind relax and unwind. Recipe: DIY Bath Salt You can easily make your own DIY bath salt at home by mixing just two ingredients. Ingredients: 1 dl coarse salt about 10 drops of essential oil Stir the ingredients in a bowl, then pour the entire mixture into the bathwater and let it dissolve. Choose an essential oil Lavender and orange are relaxing, clary sage and lemongrass are good for muscle fatigue, rosemary is stimulating, eucalyptus and peppermint are good at the onset of a cold. How to do it Lie in the bath, take deep breaths through your nose, and massage your body with the bathwater so it absorbs the salt and essential oil. Remember that essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care; add only 8-10 drops to one bath. Don’t forget to enjoy! While you’re in the bath, you can take the opportunity to do a hair treatment and apply a face mask. Finish by moisturizing your entire body with a body oil or body lotion on slightly damp skin. SPA Shower Take a long shower and do a body scrub. A salt scrub removes old skin cells, increases blood circulation, and provides minerals and nutrients to your skin. Buy a ready-made body scrub or make your own. Body scrub works best on warm, slightly damp skin. Shower with warm water, then take a handful of scrub and massage it all over your body. Start with feet, legs, hands, and arms, then the rest of the body. Rinse off. Finish by moisturizing your entire body with a skin oil or body lotion on slightly damp skin. Recipe: DIY Body Scrub Enhance your home spa with your own DIY body scrub. Ingredients: 1 dl Himalayan salt ¾ dl vegetable oil (coconut, almond, jojoba) 20 drops of essential oil (optional) You can also mix your favorite body oil directly with the salt. Take the opportunity to do a hair treatment while scrubbing. SPA Foot Bath If you’re short on time, do a foot bath. It has the same beneficial effects as a bath. 10 minutes in a foot bath relaxes all the small muscles that are strained when you walk and stand. Blood circulation is stimulated, and the skin can absorb salt and essential oil, which have a beneficial effect. Recipe: DIY Foot Salt Ingredients: 1 dl Epsom salt or Himalayan salt 10 drops of essential oil Mix the ingredients in a bowl. Then dissolve 3-4 tablespoons in the foot bath. The rest can be stored in an airtight jar. File your feet and rinse under running water. Finish by moisturizing your feet with a foot cream or why not with shea butter, which is softening and perfect for dry feet. They come in several lovely combinations. If you have very dry feet, moisturize them and then put on a pair of socks and sleep with them on so you wake up with soft, smooth feet. Recipe: DIY Foot Oil Against Fungus If you have problems with athlete’s foot, you can make your own oil blend with antifungal properties. Ingredients: 40 ml vegetable oil such as almond oil or apricot kernel oil 10 ml neem oil 15 drops tea tree 5 drops lemon oil Apply regularly to your feet. The mixture should be used within a few months. We at Glimja wish you a wonderful spa moment!
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5 Fat-Free & Vegan Easter Recipes Without Gluten
Sometimes it can be difficult to find fun, tasty and healthy recipes for holidays like Easter. Here are five recipes that we hope will inspire you to enjoy a delightful and healthy Easter! Gratinated Mashed Potato Halves Baked potatoes with an extra twist. A wonderful and beautiful “comfort food” that everyone loves. Ingredients 10-15 small potatoes1 tbsp lemon juice2 tbsp tahini1/2 tsp paprika1 tsp turmeric1 tsp maple syrup1 garlic clove, finely chopped1-3 tbsp unsweetened almond milk or light coconut milk as neededSea salt, to tasteBlack pepper, to taste For topping:1 tsp paprika powderSmall handful of chopped chives1 tsp black Himalayan salt (optional) Instructions Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Cut the potatoes in half and place them on the baking sheet with the cut side up. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes until soft. 3. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes until cool enough to handle. Then scoop out the inside of the potatoes with a teaspoon or ice cream scoop, leaving some space at the edges. 4. Place the scooped-out potato in a bowl and add lemon juice, garlic, tahini, turmeric, paprika, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Mash into a smooth mash – add a little almond milk if needed. 5. Put the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle and pipe it decoratively into the potato halves. Garnish with paprika, chives, and black salt. Serve immediately. Zucchini Hummus Perfect for dipping vegetable sticks, using as a topping in wraps, or as a dip for boiled Jerusalem artichoke! Ingredients 5 dl raw zucchini, peeled and chopped1 garlic clove, finely chopped or pressed1 tsp cumin2 tbsp lemon juice1 dl tahini Optional: red chili flakes, sprig of fresh dill, basil or coriander, sea salt Optional wrap: romaine lettuce, tomato, sprouts, and spring onions Optional vegetables: chopped cucumber, cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, sweet potato, bell pepper, etc. Instructions 1. Blend zucchini, garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and tahini in a food processor until very creamy. 2. Taste and add optional red chili flakes, dill, basil, or coriander if desired. You can also add sea salt if you like. Serve with raw vegetables as a dip. Alternatively, place in romaine lettuce and top with tomato, sprouts, and spring onion for delicious “tacos.” Roasted Asparagus A recipe created by Tina Redder. Ingredients 500g frozen asparagus2 garlic cloves, pressed1 lemon, thinly sliced2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice1/2 tsp sea salt1/4 tsp ground black pepper Instructions Preheat the oven to 190°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place asparagus, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic in a bowl and mix well. Spread the asparagus on the baking tray in a single layer, preferably with some space between them. Place in the oven and roast for about 10 minutes or until the asparagus is tender in the middle when pierced with a fork. Serve with fresh lemon slices. Citrus & Spinach Salad The simplest salad ever is this combination of spinach & citrus. The vitamin C in the oranges and grapefruit increases the absorption of iron from the spinach. Instructions Cut the orange and grapefruit into pieces and mix with fresh spinach leaves. Garnish with lemon juice. Done! Maple/Date Fudge A wonderful dessert that will be appreciated by all ages! Ingredients 3.5 dl pitted dates0.6 dl maple syrup0.8 dl smooth almond butter1 tsp vanilla powder1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)1/4 tsp cardamom (optional) Instructions 1. Place dates, maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla, and spices (if using) in a food processor. Blend for 2-3 minutes until the mixture forms a lump. 2. Line a baking pan about 15 cm long and wide with parchment paper. Press the dough with a wet spatula until it covers the pan in an even layer. Cover and place in the freezer for 2 hours or overnight. 3. Remove from the freezer and cut into squares. Best served cold and stored in the freezer. HAPPY EASTER from all of us to all of you!
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Natural toothpaste without chemicals - 10 substances to avoid
It's time to look inside the bathroom cabinet again and read the ingredients. This time it's about toothpaste. The trusty product we have used daily since childhood. What does it really contain, and is it good for us? Our view on toothpaste, as with all other products at Glimja, is that we believe in natural ingredients and avoiding chemicals as much as possible. We do this both for our own sake and for the planet's. Therefore, we have included a list here of common toothpaste ingredients with explanations of why we choose to avoid them. 10 ingredients you should avoid in your toothpaste 1. Fluoride We know fluoride is good against cavities, but we also know that fluoride in larger amounts carries certain health risks. That is why it is especially important to spit out all toothpaste and not swallow it. Do not let children have free access to toothpaste tubes containing fluoride. Always supervise children so they do not swallow the toothpaste after brushing. There are toothpastes without fluoride today. At Glimja, we have chosen to sell only toothpaste without fluoride. Regarding fluoride specifically, it is important to make a personal choice and experiment. The amounts of fluoride in regular toothpaste are not very large, and it is effective against cavities. If you easily get cavities, there may be other underlying causes, but until you have addressed them, you might need something as strong as fluoride to protect your teeth. Personally, I haven't used fluoride for almost 25 years and my teeth are very healthy according to my dentist. So it is definitely possible to live without it if you feel you want to. 2. Triclosan An antibacterial agent that can break down into dioxin (toxic). It is environmentally harmful, allergenic, suspected to be carcinogenic, bioaccumulative, irritating to skin and lungs, etc. 3. SLS SLS – Sodium lauryl sulfate is a soap agent that makes it foam. It is a general irritant; it irritates the skin. It can also be contaminated with toxic impurities like 1,4-dioxane during production. 4. Titanium dioxide White pigment in the toothpaste. It is a natural mineral that is actually harmless. However, it is rarely specified whether it is in nano size or not. Nanoparticles are relatively new and their health effects are not fully understood. The particles are so small that they remain and spread in the body. They are so small that they can even move up to our brain. If you don't want to read the INCI ingredients, choose a toothpaste that is not white. 5. Parabens A preservative suspected to be carcinogenic and toxic to our organs. There are about 20 different types of parabens. 6. Alumina / Aluminum oxide A thickener (to prevent clumping) suspected to be bioaccumulative and toxic to our organs. Commonly found in liquid “2-in-1” toothpastes. 7. PEG (polyethylene glycol) Solvent, a binder called PEG followed by a number (the number describes the molecule’s length, i.e. structure). Not all variants are equally harmful to health but some may contain traces of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (toxic) and are suspected to be toxic to our organs. I usually skip all PEGs in all body care for simplicity’s sake. 8. Propylene glycol Moisturizing and also used as a preservative. It is associated with irritation and allergic reactions. 9. Cocamidopropyl betaine A surfactant linked to irritation and allergic reactions that may be caused by the ingredient itself or impurities in it, e.g. 3-dimethylaminopropylamine. 10. Cetylpyridinium chloride A quaternary ammonium salt associated with irritation and allergic reactions. How to choose a natural fluoride-free toothpaste Natural toothpaste without synthetic additives and chemicals comes in several different forms and flavors. Basically, it’s a matter of taste which one you like and feel cleans your teeth best. There are several basic types of natural toothpaste. Calcium, bicarbonate & salt-based toothpastes This is probably the type of natural toothpaste that comes closest to conventional “regular” toothpastes in texture and taste. Natural calcium and salt along with herbs help to clean and disinfect the mouth effectively. In other words, it can be a good first choice for you who have just decided to quit or reduce fluoride. Logonas Logodent Daily Care is a bestseller with us, it has a good price and tastes of peppermint. Logodent Mineral is a cream-form toothpaste with salt, seaweed extract, myrrh, and a mild peppermint flavor. Desert Essence with tea tree, cinnamon, neem, clove and mint is a really strong, potent toothpaste loved by many. Desert Essence original toothpaste with tea tree and neem is our bestseller. Neem extract is nature’s own “cleansing miracle.” Another very popular toothpaste is PerioBrite, which is packed with herbs. Weleda’s salt toothpaste cleans well with sea salt, minerals, ratanhia root, myrrh, and chestnut bark. Their toothpaste with Ratanhia root is a classic that many appreciate. Clay-based toothpastes For the more dedicated, there are clay-based toothpastes with bentonite clay as the base. They don’t foam the same way and provide a more grounded experience. If you don’t want glycerin in your toothpaste, this is the right choice. Earthpaste Peppermint / Charcoal with clay and activated black charcoal is a hit for many. Earthpaste Spearmint, which contains clay, tea tree oil, mint oil, and menthol, is very popular because it is free from sweeteners. Powder toothpaste Powder toothpaste, or tooth powder as it is also called, is usually based on dried bentonite clay and/or baking soda with added herbs and/or essential oils. It’s a slightly different way to brush your teeth that gives a surprisingly clean and “well-polished” feeling. They are also very affordable because they last much longer. Additionally, it is much easier to use up the entire jar than it is to get all the toothpaste out of a tube. Earthpowder Peppermint contains only 5 ingredients: bentonite clay, xylitol, sea salt, peppermint, and menthol. Earthpowder Licorice / Charcoal has 6 ingredients: bentonite clay, xylitol, sea salt, activated charcoal, anise, and fennel oil. Toothpaste Tooth powders are specially designed to replace regular toothpaste. They contain few ingredients that are easy to understand, such as coconut oil, baking soda, various high-quality essential oils, saponified olive oil, and kaolin clay. Living Libations Neem contains only six ingredients: coconut oil, neem oil, cinnamon, saponified olive oil, baking soda, and kaolin clay. Living Libations Frankinsense with coconut oil, baking soda, various high-quality essential oils, saponified olive oil, and kaolin clay. Living Libations Triple + Mint contains, among other things, coconut oil, saponified olive oil, baking soda, calcium phosphate, and three different types of mint. Liquid oral care with essential oils Living Libations liquid oral care with essential oils is a natural and unique way to take care of your teeth. You apply a drop on a dry toothbrush and brush. Yogi Serum contains a mix of essential oils from neem, clove, mastic, cardamom, peppermint, and cayenne. It’s a real powerhouse. Only for yogis who like neem. Happy Gum Drops contains pure essential oils of tea tree, peppermint, cinnamon, rose, clove, oregano, and thyme in a base of sea buckthorn oil. Ozonated Happy Gumgel contains ozonated olive oil blended with sea buckthorn oil, oregano, cinnamon, rose, sweet thyme, clove, tea tree, and peppermint. All of these support oral health in different ways and provide fresh breath. Dental floss is important! Don’t forget to use dental floss and scrape your tongue! It can be just as important for thoroughly cleaning your entire mouth every day. Which toothpaste should you choose? Since all our toothpastes meet our high standard of natural ingredients, you can freely choose among them without worrying about the contents. If you want help finding a favorite that suits your specific needs, you can always ask our product experts—just email us. Environmental and wallet-friendly tips Finally, I want to give you a little tip that’s good for both your wallet and the environment. Even if you’ve squeezed out the last bit with all your might, there’s often a lot of toothpaste left inside the tube. Cut open the toothpaste tube! It will last for many more days. Don’t forget to use the top part of the tube as a cap, otherwise the toothpaste dries out quickly.
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Make your own organic raw chocolate with health benefits
Chocolate, chocolate. Many of us love chocolate. Consuming chocolate can give an inner feeling of well-being, security, and a rush of happiness while also providing a taste sensation. There is a connection between eating chocolate and feeling happiness Many say they become happy and feel secure when eating chocolate, what could this be due to? Perhaps this: Theobromine, which naturally occurs in cocoa, is a stimulant that dilates blood vessels in the same way caffeine affects the body. Cocoa is said to make the brain produce more of a molecule called anandamide, which may explain the euphoric feeling some experience when eating chocolate. Anandamide is also produced in the body during exercise. Phenylethylamine (PEA) is a chemical that increases feelings of love, focus, and attention. PEA is noticeably abundant in the brains of happy people, and when we are in love, our PEA levels rise. Dark cocoa has been shown to provide some PEA (also found in blue-green algae). This is likely why chocolate and falling in love are often linked. The amino acid tryptophan naturally occurs in cocoa. Tryptophan is essential for the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin increases well-being and relaxation. What is the difference between cocoa powder, cocoa mass, and cocoa butter? Cocoa beans grow on the tropical tree Theobroma cacao. The tree’s large seeds are the source of chocolate in its many forms. Raw cocoa is rich in antioxidants and also high in magnesium, calcium, zinc, and iron. Cocoa mass is the whole cocoa bean ground into a homogeneous mass. That’s why it is brown and has a very intense cocoa flavor. It produces a dark, rich chocolate. Cocoa nibs are also whole cocoa beans that have been crushed. Cocoa powder is made by removing cocoa butter (fat) from the cocoa beans. This process leaves a powder with a slightly bitter taste that is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients. The powder tastes similar to dark chocolate. Cocoa butter is only the fat separated from the cocoa bean. It is white in color and has a mild, quite distinctive flavor similar to white chocolate but without sugar. Why not try making raw, organic chocolate at home with your own ingredients? Making your own chocolate is both simple and satisfying as you can experiment with texture and flavors yourself. Here we share a basic recipe you can use to make chocolate eggs, pralines, chocolate bars, etc. Chocolate Recipe Ingredients: 2.5 dl cocoa butter 2.5 dl cocoa mass or 2.5 dl cocoa powder. 2-3 tbsp honey, agave syrup, coconut sugar, yacon syrup, or another sweetener of your choice. Flavoring: Fill the chocolate with what you love most. Coconut flakes, blueberries, raspberries, chopped nuts, a pinch of sea salt, puffed quinoa, goji berries, spirulina, licorice powder, chaga, lucuma, maca, mesquite, baobab, vanilla powder, cardamom, cinnamon, mint flavor, pink pepper, etc. Instructions: Place the cocoa butter in a stainless steel bowl over a pot of simmering water. Let the butter slowly melt while stirring. Also place the cocoa mass in a stainless steel bowl over a pot of simmering water. Let the mass slowly melt while stirring. Cocoa butter and cocoa mass need to be melted separately. Then mix them together in a bowl and add the sweetener as well as cocoa powder if you are using it instead of cocoa mass. Stir thoroughly. You can now add your flavorings and other tasty ingredients. Place a chocolate mold (preferably silicone) on a tray, pour the chocolate mixture into the mold; this can get messy and requires patience. Panduro has many very nice silicone molds, including one shaped like eggs. If you don’t have a mold, you can spread the chocolate on baking paper. Carefully place in the freezer and let set for 15-30 minutes, or until completely firm. If you want to fill your chocolate eggs or pralines, put some chocolate batter at the bottom of the mold cavity, add the filling, and cover with chocolate batter. Silicone molds make it very easy to release the chocolate when it’s ready. Then just enjoy. If you don’t want to make your own chocolate, we offer the wonderfully delicious organic chocolate from Wermlands Choklad, which is handmade in Värmland.
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3 non-toxic and simple Easter crafts for the whole family
Does your child also like to do crafts? Here at Glimja, we love crafting, and Easter is a really cozy holiday where you can create many beautiful decorations to brighten up your home. Here we offer three non-toxic Easter crafts suitable for children of all ages. The youngest children may need some assistance with certain steps, but otherwise the whole family can gather and enjoy this fun Easter craft together. Flowers made from FischerTip You need: FischerTip building pieces (potato starch and natural food coloring) Scissors (assist the youngest children with scissors) Damp dishcloth Instructions: Choose the colors you want for the stem. We chose 3 green FischerTips. Tap one short side of a building piece against the damp cloth and attach it to another piece. Build the entire stem this way. Cut a yellow building piece in half and attach it to the top of the stem. Cut pointed petals by splitting three building pieces diagonally along the long side, or make round petals by cutting a building piece straight across. See the pictures below. Tap the petals against the cloth and attach them around the yellow pistil. The flower is now finished. Try placing the yellow pistil at an angle on the stem; this makes the flower lean and easier to see from the side. These flowers are easy to make for all ages, and if the child is not old enough to use scissors, an adult can cut the pieces and the child can assemble the flower. Feel free to put the flowers in a cute little vase when they are done and decorate the Easter table with the arrangement! Flower with pointed petals: Flower with round petals: Hearts made from FischerTip for the Easter twigs Be a true animal lover and skip real bird feathers in the Easter twigs. Instead, go for a vegan-friendly alternative like these cute hearts made from FischerTip. The birds used in the feather industry often suffer, and as mentioned, there are other options to hang on the twigs. You need: FischerTip building pieces (potato starch and natural food coloring) Scissors (assist the youngest children with scissors) Damp dishcloth Sewing needle Thread Easter twigs (can be bought at flower shops or picked in the forest – remember to ask the landowner for permission before picking Easter twigs) Instructions: Choose two building pieces in the same color. Cut off a corner on both building pieces. See the picture below. Moisten the cut surface and attach the large parts together. The top of the heart can be made rounder by cutting with scissors or shaping it with slightly damp fingers. The small leftover corners can be saved and used for other crafts. Take a needle and thread and thread the thread straight through the heart from above. Tie the thread on the underside and cut off any excess thread. Hang the pretty hearts on the Easter twigs. This craft is simple but threading the needle and tying underneath can be a bit tricky. Help the youngest children and let them assemble the building pieces and hang the hearts on the Easter twigs. Sweet chicks with fingerprints You need: Watercolor or finger paint A brush A thumb A piece of paper Markers Instructions: Paint your thumb with watercolor or finger paint. We used ökoNORM’s watercolor in the pictures. Press your thumb onto a piece of paper. Repeat until you have as many chick bodies as you want. Let the paint dry thoroughly. Draw eyes, beak, legs, and any accessories on the chicks. We used ökoNORM’s markers in the picture. Write HAPPY EASTER on the drawing and give it away or hang it up at home. Everyone can make fingerprint art, and only your imagination limits how many different kinds of chicks you can create. Try putting a hat on the head or give the chick skis on its feet or a broom in its hand so it can fly to Blåkulla! Bonus tips We have now received beautiful natural face paints that are perfect when you want to dress up as an Easter witch, Easter man, chick, or Easter bunny. Check out Namaki’s range of face paints, face pencils, and hair mascaras. ökoNORM watercolors can also be used to decorate the eggs for the Easter table. Use a brush and lots of imagination to create colorful and beautiful eggs that are a delight to the eye!
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Gentle skincare for sensitive baby skin
What is common sense for baby skin? We will clarify that here. Newborns have much thinner and more sensitive skin than older children and adults. Their immune system is still developing, so they require extra care. In theory, you want to protect them from everything harmful in our environment, but in practice, it’s not that easy. Here are some points that are relatively simple to implement or at least worth considering. Choose fragrance-free Fragrances can cause allergies and may also contribute to the development of eczema. If you as a parent are allergic or have sensitive skin, you should be extra careful. Switch to fragrance-free detergent. Babies probably smell nice enough anyway. Skip fabric softener completely. If you want to use ready-made wet wipes (instead of water + oil on a washcloth), it’s good to choose an organic variety without unnecessary additives like fragrances. Natracare has good organic wet wipes enriched with organic oils from apricot, linden, and chamomile. These are especially useful when traveling or where clean water is not available. Choose fragrance-free diapers. Choose unscented skincare products without synthetic fragrance. Hygiene & Skincare Products Babies and small children don’t need to bathe every day. They don’t sweat much and don’t get very dirty either. Of course, you should take care of intimate hygiene daily and rinse off any spit-up, but making daily baths a habit washes away natural skin oils and dries out the skin. Do not routinely use shampoo or shower gel. Oil and water work very well for a long time on little ones. Bubble baths or foam baths are quite unnecessary for babies. Only older children benefit from foam baths. Keep in mind that anything that foams a lot can dry out the skin. Water + oil is the ultimate for newborns. Mild skin irritations or light eczema can often be treated by persistently applying creams or oils. If you have a well-functioning oil, you can mix it with a baby lotion or cream for extra moisture. Feel free to try our "7 natural tips that soothe eczema on baby & child skin" before considering hydrocortisone, which can thin the skin. 5. A little tip against itching is potato starch. It may sound a bit strange, but it’s super effective. It keeps the skin dry and the best part is that potato starch immediately soothes itching, especially in the diaper area. Replace talcum powder and dare to try potato starch! It’s completely natural, inexpensive, and good. 6. The best oils we can recommend for baby skin are jojoba oil, almond oil, and sesame oil. Very few people react to these oils. Use them to moisturize the skin as well as for washing and bathing. Remember that the skin should be slightly damp when you apply the oil. Children’s Clothing It’s easy to believe that clothes for babies and children are always free from toxins. But that’s not the case. They can contain residues of pesticides used on cotton plantations and are dyed with dyes/bleaches and have added chemicals to fix the color. Some clothes are also “preserved” to keep pests away during storage and transport. A better alternative to conventional children’s clothes without organic certification is to buy secondhand or organic clothes (GOTS). If you are going to buy new (non-organic) clothes, keep this in mind: Avoid black clothes entirely for babies and children. Black dyes are especially allergenic and toxic. Choose solid-colored and naturally colored garments as much as possible, especially those that will be close to the skin. Wash clothes at least twice before use. Use a fragrance-free and natural detergent. Skip fabric softener. Avoid plastic-like fabrics that feel sticky. They may be made of PVC, which contains vinyl chloride, a carcinogen, and phthalates that can harm the child’s reproductive ability. Buy outerwear with PFAS-free membranes and impregnation.
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Hyaluronic Acid in Skincare: Benefits for All Skin Types
If you’re interested in skincare, you’ve probably heard of hyaluronic acid. But you might not be sure how to use it, if it’s right for you, or how to fit it into your skincare routine. In this article written by Zainab Danjuma at Evolve Organic Beauty (one of our favorite brands here at Glimja), Evolve’s founder Laura Rudoe answers all questions about hyaluronic acid and explains how to best benefit from this amazing molecule on your skin. What is hyaluronic acid? You might think hyaluronic acid is one of the skincare acids people talk about; like BHA, AHA, and glycolic acid, which exfoliate and increase cell turnover. But it is not. Although hyaluronic acid plumps your skin and makes it look beautifully “glowing,” it does so in a completely different way. It is actually not an “acid” at all. Hyaluronic acid is instead a sugar-based gel-type molecule that can hold an enormous amount of water – up to 1000 times its own weight, to be exact. It is a moisturizing agent (an ingredient that draws moisture from the air around to the skin). This makes it perfect for hydrating the skin. Despite its name, hyaluronic acid is actually a very gentle ingredient, suitable for everyone, even people with sensitive skin. Where is hyaluronic acid found? One of the things that makes hyaluronic acid so effective in skincare is that it is naturally produced by the body. It is found in skin, tendons, and blood vessels. About 50% of the hyaluronic acid naturally found in the body is in the skin, where it works to speed up tissue repair by increasing cell metabolism and forming a gel-like layer around the cells. However, as we age, the amount stored in our bodies decreases – by age 50, it’s possible that the body’s hyaluronic acid reserves have dropped by 50%. This is one of the reasons why our skin tends to become drier and duller as we get older, since new skin cells are not produced as quickly. Because of this, we look for external sources of hyaluronic acid to “replenish” our natural reserves. Moreover, you don’t have to wait until you see signs of aging to get started; hyaluronic acid is excellent for skin at any age. What are the main benefits of hyaluronic acid? It is scientifically proven that using hyaluronic acid topically, as a serum or cream, helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But hydration is not the only benefit this wonderful molecule provides. Hyaluronic acid can help protect the skin against UVB radiation, which in turn prevents sun spots, wrinkles, and skin damage. Evolve Organic Beauty uses two different types of hyaluronic acid in their products – low and very low molecular weight. While low molecular weight is more than enough for hydration, very low molecular weight penetrates even deeper into the skin layers and is even more effective for pro-aging. It not only forms a protective layer on the skin but also fights free radicals caused by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This means free radicals don’t get a chance to attack your skin, leaving it calmer, clearer, and with fewer imperfections. It is from this knowledge that Laura Rudoe created her favorite product; Daily Defence Moisture Mist. Evolve has designed it so it can be sprayed onto the skin, delivering a dose of protective ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, that makes the skin look refreshed and radiant. Keep it in the fridge for the perfect hydration boost on warm days. It is also good for protecting against the effects of external pollutants, which can cause signs of premature aging. Another big favorite is Evolve Organic Beauty's 360 Eye and Lip Contour, which is a nourishing eye and lip cream. It has an advanced formulation including low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that helps reduce wrinkles and dark circles. Hyaluronic acid is a moisturizer, not a moisturizing cream. Hyaluronic acid does not retain moisture in the skin. Imagine your skin as a sponge. If you fill it with water, it becomes plump and spongy. However, if you let it dry out, it will soon return to being dry. Hyaluronic acid basically works like the water in a sponge; it fills and draws moisture from the air. Hyaluronic acid thus helps to add moisture to the skin and helps the skin become more hydrated. On the other hand, it does not help the skin retain moisture. For that, you can complement with face creams, serums, and oils. If you stop using hyaluronic acid, you will therefore stop seeing the benefits. How does hyaluronic acid work in skincare? Many hyaluronic acid molecules are too large to penetrate the skin's surface. However, this is not a bad thing. The acid creates a protective film that improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Evolve Organic Beauty's Hyaluronic Serum 200 is, however, somewhat different; the lower molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid Evolve uses means it can penetrate deeper into the skin, which in turn allows the skin to be hydrated even more effectively. It also supports the skin's collagen production, which helps keep the skin elastic and firm, giving a more youthful appearance. Doctors and dermatologists often use hyaluronic acid as a biodegradable filler because of how harmoniously it works with the body's natural functions. They usually apply it to cheeks, lips, and under the eyes to reduce signs of aging, but you don’t need injections to enjoy its benefits. Which skin type benefits the most from hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid suits all skin types and everyone benefits from it. Can those with oily skin use hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid does not oversaturate oily skin because it regulates how much moisture the skin needs. It can actually reduce excess oil production by rebalancing the skin’s moisture needs. Hyaluronic acid also has natural soothing properties, so if you suffer from breakouts or redness, it will calm your skin while hydrating it. Evolve Organic Beauty's True Balance Gel Cream is designed for oily and breakout-prone skin and uses hyaluronic acid to provide a dose of non-greasy hydration, while the other ingredients work to balance oil production and keep the skin calm. Is hyaluronic acid safe for sensitive skin and skin with eczema? Yes, sensitive skin and people with conditions like eczema and rosacea can use hyaluronic acid without worrying about reactions. A recent study actually found that when combined with proteoglycan and collagen, it helps restore the skin’s surface and reduce itching and sensitivity. Is hyaluronic acid good for dry skin? Absolutely. In a 2014 study, participants used topical hyaluronic acid in various forms, including lotion, serum, and cream. The study results showed an increase in skin hydration of up to 96% after 8 weeks of use across the different types, regardless of the delivery method. It helps the skin retain moisture and can even reduce inflammation and tenderness by supporting the skin’s natural healing process (reducing skin cracks caused by dryness), as shown in a 2016 study. Is hyaluronic acid effective for aging skin? As you age, you lose elasticity and definition in the skin. The skin becomes less smooth, the texture coarser, and fine lines become more prominent. Firstly, regular use of a good hyaluronic acid serum helps protect the skin against free radicals and pollution, reducing early signs of aging. Studies have also shown that hyaluronic acid serums can help reduce skin unevenness and increase skin elasticity, effectively turning back the clock. This effect is significant, although not permanent. In another 2014 study, participants applied hyaluronic acid topically twice daily for eight weeks. It showed a 40% reduction in wrinkle depth and up to a 55% increase in skin firmness and elasticity compared to participants who did not apply the acid. How do I use hyaluronic acid in my daily routine? It depends on which skincare products you use. Moisturizer and serum are two of the most common forms of hyaluronic acid. Moisturizer Use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid at least twice a day, morning and evening, always after cleansing, exfoliating, or applying serum. Here you can find Evolve Organic Beauty's Daily Renew Facial Cream and Evolve Organic Beauty's Multi Peptide 360 Anti-Ageing Cream, both fantastic facial creams with hyaluronic acid plus much more. Serum A hyaluronic acid serum is best used after cleansing. Before drying your face, pat a few drops in with your palms. Apply a nourishing moisturizer immediately afterward to lock in all the hydration. Hyaluronic acid works well with most common skincare ingredients, even acid-based ones. Moisturizers and oil-based serums contain oils that help repair the skin's barrier layer, sealing in moisture and preventing it from evaporating. Most people (unless they have very oily skin) need more moisture and oil. The most effective method may be to first use a water-based serum to help it penetrate deeper into the skin, then apply an oil-based serum on top, followed by a facial cream to seal in moisture. How often can I use hyaluronic acid? Evolve recommends applying hyaluronic acid twice a day, morning and evening. When can I see results from using hyaluronic acid? You can see immediate results from your serum or cream, but they will fade. As with most types of skincare, the best results are usually seen within four to six weeks of consistent use. Does my diet affect the production of hyaluronic acid in the body? Since hyaluronic acid is produced by the body, it can be increased by eating certain foods. There is some evidence that starchy root vegetables can boost production, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and Jerusalem artichokes. If you're craving something a bit more refreshing, try a citrus fruit: they contain naringenin, which prevents the breakdown of hyaluronic acid in the body. Fruits high in naringenin include oranges, bananas, grapefruits, and tomatoes. Finally, unsurprisingly, leafy green vegetables top the list. They contain magnesium, which aids the body's production of hyaluronic acid. The article is written by Zainab Danjuma with responses from Laura Rudoe, founder of the brand Evolve Organic Beauty´
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5 benefits of sprouts: Nutritious food you can easily grow at home
During my childhood in the 70s, sprouts were a symbol of hippie health food, but today we all understand they are very nutritious and you can find them in most grocery stores. And they taste so good! Here we list 5 reasons why we should all sprout. 1. Fresh and nutritious Sprouting transforms seeds into superfoods! Sprouts are living food and among the freshest and most nutritious we can eat. Sprouting makes seeds, beans, and lentils more alkaline and increases their nutrient density. By eating them, we get vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and many enzymes that support digestion. When you make your own sprouts, you guarantee absolute freshness and maximum living energy. Recently, broccoli sprouts have received a lot of attention due to the plant's high levels of sulforaphane, a powerful phytochemical substance. 2. Easier to digest Sprouting makes them easier to digest and allows our bodies to access the full nutritional profile. A major benefit of sprouting is that it releases beneficial enzymes. These enzymes make all types of grains, seeds, and beans easier for the digestive system. Soaking "awakens" the dormant seed. It releases and reduces enzyme inhibitors and acids. The seeds become easier to digest and the pH level increases, all to our advantage. Depending on the seed being sprouted, proteins in the form of amino acids can also become more concentrated and absorbable. 3. Removes antinutrients One of the biggest benefits is that sprouting helps reduce the presence of antinutrients. Antinutrients are naturally occurring compounds found in plant seeds that interfere with our ability to digest the vitamins and minerals in the plants. Why do natural antinutrients exist in plant seeds? Antinutrients have a protective function in plants. They help plants survive by deterring pests and insects. Antinutrients also serve to prevent a seed from sprouting until it is mature enough and ready to grow. One of the best-known antinutrients found in grains, beans, nuts, and seeds is called phytic acid. 4. Affordable You get a lot of sprouts for your money. 5. Fun It's very fun to sprout in your own kitchen, all year round. It's fascinating to watch how a small amount of seeds turns into a whole jar of fresh sprouts we can enjoy. There are many types of sprouting seeds to choose from, such as alfalfa, radish, mung beans, green lentils, black lentils, fenugreek, clover, red cabbage, beetroot, broccoli, quinoa, sunflower shoots, chickpeas, buckwheat, and more, so there's no risk of getting tired of the taste. It’s always good to alternate between different types of sprouts. Sprouting guide How to sprout at home Always clean the seeds before sprouting using a sieve. The better you clean, the nicer the final sprouts. Then soak the seeds. The soaking time varies from seed to seed. It’s usually stated on the back of the package. Most often soaking is 12 hours. After soaking, pour off the water. Repeat rinsing 1-2 times. Now place the seeds in a sprouting jar, sprouting tower, or sprouting bag. Place the sprouting container in a warm (18-22 degrees Celsius), bright spot but not in direct sunlight. Shake the shoots regularly to separate them. Prevent too much water and moisture buildup. Rinse the sprouts twice a day. Gently swirl the jar or stir the sprouts daily. When they’re ready, you’ll see a little tail on the sprout. Voila, life is sprouting! Place them in a bright window for a day and they’ll turn beautifully green. Finished sprouts should be stored dry in the fridge and last 2–3 days. You can keep the filled sprouting jar in the fridge. Note: some sprouts are covered with fibrils (tiny root hairs) that look like white fuzz; this means they are thriving, not mold. Mold is grayish and smells bad. How should you eat sprouts? Sprouts are delicious raw in a salad, in a wrap, chopped over a sandwich, or blended in a smoothie. Or they can be used in cooking, for example sautéed with vegetables, added to a stew, in veggie patties, in bread, or granola. It all depends on the sprout, flavor, and your eating habits. What is the difference between soaking and sprouting? Soaking The whole seed/food is soaked in liquid for a certain time, often in salted water. When soaking nuts, it’s often called “activating” the nuts. After that, sprouting allows the soaked food to grow further. In other words, you must soak something first before you can sprout it. Sprouting This is when the whole seed sprouts or germinates. Sprouting happens after soaking and further improves the food’s digestibility and gives a nicer flavor. After sprouting, it can be dried and ground into powder if desired. Something to think about Whether you want to sprout or not, rice, legumes, seeds, nuts, grains, and others like buckwheat and quinoa should always be soaked overnight before drying or cooking. It makes it easier to digest, removes the phytic acid, and tastes so much better! Hummus made from soaked chickpeas is a completely different taste experience than from unsoaked chickpeas. Hummus made from soaked, sprouted, and then cooked chickpeas takes it even further! Give it a try! Soaking and sprouting Below is an idea of how long different foods can be soaked and whether they can be sprouted. Sprouting seeds The package states how long they should be soaked and the approximate sprouting time. Seeds Pumpkin seeds: 8 hours soaking, 1-2 days for sprouting. Sesame seeds: 8 hours soaking, 1-2 days for sprouting. Sunflower seeds: 8 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Flax, chia, and hemp seeds are harder to sprout. However, you can sprout these small seeds by using a shallow bowl and less water. These seeds absorb water and develop a gel-like texture during the sprouting process. This is normal and results in sprouts within a few days. Nuts (Activation) Almonds: Need at least 2 to 12 hours soaking. Sprout in about 2-3 days. Walnuts: 4 hours soaking, these do not sprout. Brazil nuts: 3 hours soaking, these do not sprout. Cashews: 2-3 hours soaking, these do not sprout. Hazelnuts: 8 hours soaking, these do not sprout. Macadamia nuts: 2 hours soaking, these do not sprout. Pecans: 6 hours soaking, these do not sprout. Pistachios: 8 hours soaking, these do not sprout. Beans and legumes Chickpeas: 8-12 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Lentils: 8 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Adzuki beans: 8 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Black beans: 8-12 hours soaking, 3 days for sprouting. White beans: 8 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Mung beans: 24 hours soaking, 2-5 days for sprouting. Kidney beans: 8-12 hours soaking, 5-7 days for sprouting. Navy beans: 9-12 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Peas: 1: 9-12 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Grains Buckwheat: 8 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Amaranth: 8 hours soaking, 1-3 days for sprouting. Kamut: 7 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Millet: 8 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Oat flakes: 6 hours soaking, 2-3 days for sprouting. Quinoa: 4 hours soaking, 1-3 days for sprouting. Wheat berries: 7 hours soaking, 3-4 days for sprouting. Wild rice: 9 hours soaking, 3-5 days for sprouting. Black rice: 9 hours soaking, 3-5 days for sprouting. Here you will find sprouting equipment and sprouting seeds. We wish you a thriving day!
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