We're thankful year-round for these awesome picks from Chelsea! If you prefer to shop locally (which we do) a lot of these are available at People's Pharmacy or Central Market.
Top 5 Healthy Things I’m Thankful for This Thanksgiving Season
Chelsea Blackbird, Certified Nutritional Therapist
1. Great Lakes Collagen Hydrolysate
I call this “Botox in a bottle.” Hydrolyzed collagen is wonderful for skin, hair, and nails. It’s full of amino acids and helps regulate the body’s metabolism and ease aching joints. I sprinkle some of this powder into my coffee every morning. It’s tasteless and will dissolve in any hot or cold drink. There’s no easier way to get collagen into your diet! Buy it at People's Pharmacy or on Amazon.
2. Natural Calm
This is called the “anti-stress” drink because it’s a great natural relaxant. This supplement restores magnesium levels – a mineral in which many people are deficient. Magnesium plays a vital role in the structural integrity of the teeth and bones, the function of the heart, fat metabolism, and protein synthesis. Natural Calm is helpful for muscle cramping, restless leg syndrome, PMS, migraines, and constipation. Mix the fizzy powder with hot or cold water and drink before bed. This will send you off to dream land nice and relaxed. You can order this from Amazon or Central Market.
3. Coconut Oil
No household should be without this versatile superfood! Not only is it great to cook with, it also helps the body burn fat, support brain health, improve energy, balance hormones, and decrease wrinkles. It is anti-bacterial and has loads of antioxidants. I recommend 1-2 tablespoons a day as part of a healthy diet. Look for unrefined coconut oil which is usually labeled “virgin” or “extra-virgin” – these have the highest nutrient availability and the flavor should be pretty mild (depending on the quality of the brand). If you find the flavor is too coconutty for you, try a refined coconut oil that is not hydrogenated or chemically distilled.
4. Egyptian Licorice Herbal Tea
My Sugar Detoxers love this naturally sweet, caffeine-free tea (by the way – it doesn’t taste anything like licorice!). It can be served hot or cold and satisfies the craving for a sweet beverage without having to add any kind of sugar or sugar substitute. This tea is wonderful for hydrating the colon and supporting digestive and respiratory function. I always have a box on hand! Find it at your local grocery store. (FYI: those with high blood pressure should not consume licorice root).
5. Bone Broth
Don’t you dare throw away those turkey leftovers without making bone broth! It’s one of the simplest things to make, and one of the most nutritious foods for your body. Homemade bone broth is rich in calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It’s also a great source of gelatin – which stimulates the production of collagen (more collagen!!!). Simply throw all of the bones and leftover turkey parts into the pot and cover liberally with water. Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and let sit for 30 minutes. The vinegar helps to draw the minerals from the bones. Then bring the water to a boil, cover, turn the heat to a simmer, and let that cook for 8-24 hours. Strain the broth and use as a cooking base for soups, casseroles, rice, etc. See more information on why and how to make bone broth here.
About the Author:
Chelsea Blackbird is a certified nutritional therapist who uses a holistic approach to health and wellness. For more information or to schedule a personalized nutritional assessment, go to her blog www.dailynutritionist.com, contact Chelsea at 512/496-3083 or chelsea@thechristiannutritionist.com.