Alicia Silverstone's Blog, page 7

The Clean Sheet Brands You Need to Try: Is Your Bedding Sustainable and Nontoxic?

When it’s warm, my mindset shifts when I see all the beauty blooming around me! I so enjoy cleaning, taking walks with my dogs in my neighborhood, and occasionally letting myself sleep in! It’s a rare treat!

On average, we spend about 26 years of our life sleeping. Isn’t that a trip? Getting a good night’s rest is so important and having the most sustainable, earth-friendly bedding options are not just good for the planet, they’re good for your health, too.

I wanted to share some of my favorite bedsheet options with you—there is a plethora of great organic, sustainable options out there.

Why go with sustainable bedding?

The short answer is that it’s healthier for you and the planet.

As I wrote in “The Kind Mama”, a lot of the products made for sleep—bedding, pillows, and mattresses—are doused in chemicals that can have a serious effect on our health and our babies’ health, not to mention on how well we sleep, which is a big deal given that we spend half our lives in bed!

Cotton, which most bed sheets are made from, is one of the most heavily sprayed crops in the world. According to the Rodale Institute, cotton crops use 16 percent of the world’s pesticides, despite making up just 2.5 percent of total cropland. Eighty percent of the most common pesticides used on cotton are recognized by the World Health Organization as moderately and highly hazardous. This makes conventional cotton less than ideal for human health and the environment. Pesticide exposure in humans has been linked to a number of serious health conditions including reproductive and metabolic issues and certain types of cancers.

Conventional sheets have chemicals in them. Like rayon and polyester and anything not natural. You want your body to be resting in natural materials that are also free of chemical flame retardants and other toxins. You need natural materials in order for that to happen. In my book, I also explained the issues with wrinkle-free” sheets. Along with most mattresses, these sheets can include formaldehyde—a known carcinogen linked to a host of health issues.

Sustainable materials, such as certified organic cotton, linen, or bamboo, reduce exposure to pesticides—that’s good for you and the planet! And when it comes to comfort, you can’t go wrong with sustainable bedding, either. 

What to look for in nontoxic bedding

Look for sets made from unbleached, untreated organic—or eco-friendly fibers like linen, hemp, bamboo (make sure it’s organic and sustainably sourced).

Personally, I prefer linen sheets for the beautiful lived-in, chic look. They also tend to last longer and get softer and softer after each wash. Linen can also help to keep you cooler in the very hot weather—perfect for the coming summer season. Not only is linen durable and hypoallergenic, but it’s also made from flax, which is biodegradable. Linen is also anti-static, and may reduce pH levels and allergens due to the absorption, weave, and filtered nature of the fibers! Pretty cool! (Literally!)

Organic cotton is another great option. It’s definitely softer in feel at first and always gets even softer with washing. Cotton sheets may shrink if not hung dry, so save the energy and hang them! Organic cotton also helps warm up the body, making it perfect for the winter months. It also absorbs water and moisture. Typically, organic cotton sheets have an approximate lifespan of three to five years.

Pro tip: When you have an old, worn-out sheet, cut it up and turn it into kitchen towels! Reuse!

Here are some of my favorite sustainable bed sheets: 

1. Organic Linen Vintage Feel Sheets: Matteo Home SHOP NOW
2. Hypoallergenic Eucalyptus Sheets: BuffySHOP NOW
3. 100% Organic Cotton: CoyuchiSHOP NOW
4. 100% Organic Linen: The CitizenrySHOP NOW
5. 100% organic  cotton: Boll and BranchSHOP NOW
6. Linen fitted Sheet, Two DawsonSHOP NOW

Want more info on bedding? Check out this post about the trouble with wool.

Quick, Easy, and Effective Solutions for Clean Water

Clean, purified drinking and bathing water is foundational to good health! I’m sure you’ve questioned it before, but you should not drink or bathe in unfiltered tap water!  Although the EPA has set standards for over 80 contaminants that may occur in drinking water and pose a risk to human health, there are more than 160 unregulated contaminants that are not monitored.  When we drink, shower and bathe in water containing chlorine and other contaminants, it kills gut bacteria and creates free radicals in the body.
Thankfully, there are an array of affordable suggestions to follow until you can evaluate your present situation and decide what purification system best fits your needs!

Purified drinking water

Reverse Osmosis (RO) purified water is the most affordable and safest water for anyone who isn’t able to invest in a purification system (requires plumbing) for their drinking water.  A reverse osmosis purifier is designed to remove all elevated levels of dissolved solids, which could include lead, nitrate, arsenic, copper, aluminum, etc. Costing roughly 25 – 35 cents per gallon, RO water can be purchased from a water store or commercial-rated vending machines found in most grocery stores retailers such as Target or Wal-Mart. When you purchase and pick up this RO water, keep an eye out for Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) readings. TDS refer to any minerals, salts, and metals dissolved in water. The ‘water machine’ will have a sticker that records the TDS checks, but you can also call the number on the machine to ask about the frequency of servicing and the average TDS count. You are looking for an ideal TDS reading of 5 – 10.  

Purified water pro tips:When filling up on water at RO water destinations, consider purchasing enough glass bottles for a week’s worth of drinking and cooking water. Re-using glass apple juice jugs is a great option!Pour your purified water into a countertop ceramic, glass dispenser, or on an independent stand for convenient use in the kitchen.Since RO does a serious job filtering, it’s devoid of minerals. Therefore, add a pinch of good quality sea salt like Celtic Salt or Pink Himalayan salt into each gallon of water. For water-on-the-go, fill glass water bottles from the dispenser. Glass is a little less convenient than plastic, but reducing your exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is worth it! Plus, energetically speaking, it’s the best to contain water. Ello is one of many companies that makes bottles with colorful silicone jackets to protect the glass. Also, consider reusing old glass juice or kombucha bottles. Lead-free stainless steel is another solid option, but please do your research as many metal bottles made in China have been found to have lead in them. Don’t be too alarmed Klean Kanteen, Planet Box, and Kid’s Konserve are guaranteed lead free!  Stainless steel lead-free bottles and containers are a great unbreakable option for kids to bring to/from school. When possible, avoid drinking water from plastic bottles, even the ones from so-called “safer plastics.” A 2009 report found that some as yet unidentified chemicals in these plastics have been shown to have the potential to interfere with estrogen and other reproductive hormones, just as the plasticizers BPA and phthalates do. So, as a precautionary action, it may be time to reconsider how harmless “safe” plastics really are. Not to mention, bad for the planet.

For a more expensive, yet very convenient option, you can order Mountain Valley Spring Water to be delivered to your home. It is tested daily by a quality control staff and is rigorously monitored for pH, bacteria, viruses, TDS, chemical contamination, etc. There is no need to add salt to Mountain Valley, as spring water is filled with minerals. If you’re stuck deciding between purchasing bulk RO water and Mountain Valley, I’d say RO water is best for purity sake (so much pollution today!). Mountain Valley is best energetically due to its natural mineral content. 

Purified shower and bathing water

If a whole-house water purification system is not feasible (i.e. requires plumbing), it is important to know that the water you bathe and shower in is just as important as the water you drink. That’s because your skin is your largest organ and absorbs not only nutrients but also toxins. Research has shown that after a ten-minute hot shower, you have ten times more trihalomethanes (a chlorine byproduct) and chemicals in your body than if you had eight glasses of the same unpurified water! At 100 degrees, the steam from your shower is full of chlorine byproducts that you are breathing in.

To shower with purified water, purchase a point-of-use shower filter if you live in an apartment/rented home. Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured plumber to install your shower filter to insure warranty. Use a professional plumber for this since some showers need special adaptors to add shower filters and the warranty is wavered if you don’t use a licensed, bonded insured plumber. Check out CWR Shower Filters for some options.

Use a shower filter to fill the bathtub up if you want to take a bath. If there is no shower head filter, use a bathtub filter such as CWR Bath Filter.  This is a great option for detoxification baths! Make sure to follow manufacturer recommendations for use, if you continue to use the filter past its use date, it will no longer provide optimal results.

About Marilee 
Marilee Nelson is the co-founder of Branch Basics.  She is a Board Certified Nutritionist, Medicinal Cook, Certified Bau-Biologist, Certified Bau-Biology Inspector, and materials specialist using the extremely chemically injured as the benchmark for material safety based on the premise that if you accommodate the most sensitive, then you help everyone.
 

8 Nonprofits to Add to Your Holiday Gifting

What do you give that person on your holiday list that already has everything? (Or, better yet, doesn’t want anything.) The older we get the more we know how true it is that it’s the thought, not the gift itself, that counts. 

There’s a caveat to that ethos, though. What if the gift is bigger in spirit and meaning? We’re talking about supporting great causes and charity work. These are gifts for anyone, of course, but for the hard-to-shop-for–the person not so focused on material things, these are the greatest of gifts—especially for the people, animals, and communities they impact. 

Need some ideas? These are some of the organizations I love supporting. Maybe they’ll make it under your Christmas tree this year, too.

1. Animal Equality

Contribute to ending animal cruelty and a kinder planet. Animal Equality works with society, governments, and companies to end cruelty to farmed animals.

Donate here.

2. Farm Sanctuary

Sponsor a rescued farm animal under the care of Farm Sanctuary. This organization was America’s first shelter for rescued farm animals and it continues to rescue farm animals as well as provide education and resources. 

Donate here.

3. RE-volv

Why not help fund a solar energy project right in your community? RE-volv helps you do just that so that energy costs can come down for local residents and more clean energy goes up.

Donate here

4. Mercy Corps

For 40 years and in more than 40 countries, Mercy Corps has helped communities forge new paths to prosperity in the face of disaster, poverty, and the impacts of climate change.

Donate here

5. Ethical Choices Program

Help middle and high school children make better food decisions for themselves and the planet through the great work of the Ethical Choices Program.

Donate here.

6. Orangutan Foundation International

80% of the orangutan population has been lost in the past 75 years mainly as a result of mass deforestation for palm oil production. You can help orangutans and their habitats by supporting the work at Orangutan Foundation International.

Donate here.  

7. Sea Shepherd

Help conserve and protect our oceans and marine wildlife by supporting the Sea Shepherd. The international, non-profit marine conservation organization engages in direct action campaigns to defend wildlife and conserve and protect the world’s oceans from illegal exploitation and environmental destruction.

Donate here.  

8. Charity: Water

Give the gift of clean and safe drinking water. 785 million people lack basic access to clean and safe drinking water. Charity: Water been on a mission to end the water crisis since 2006. It’s funded nearly 80,000 projects in 29 countries, impacting more than 13 million people worldwide.

Donate here.

My 53 Favorite Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are here again, and, if you’re like me, it can all be a bit overwhelming sometimes. Mostly in good ways, of course, but also — all the busyness of the season, especially the gift-gathering. It’s a lot!

I’ve pulled together some suggestions that I hope can help with some meaningful gift ideas and products I’ve personally tried, tested, and loved.

And for the person on your list who insists they don’t need anything (good for them!), why not consider a donation to a nonprofit organization doing meaningful work for others? You can read about charities I love, here.

Meaningful gifting Ideas:

Bake assorted desserts (from my book or any other vegan recipe book) and gift them in boxes or decorative jars. Be sure to include the recipes (printed on recycled paper of course), so your friends and loved ones can recreate the kind treats.Pay the donation fee to an animal shelter or rescue group for your giftee to adopt an animal of their choice (when they are ready to adopt, of course!).A package of online or IRL yoga classes to a favorite studioHand-make caramels and package them in vintage jars (be sure to send me some! My favorites!)A Gift Certificate to The RealReal for stunning, eco-friendly gently used high-end fashion.

Might I add that the Kind Diet and Kind Mama make excellent gifts? Mykind Organics sprays and vitamins make great stocking stuffers, too! (More on those in a bit).

And if you’re looking for a super cool, super eco way to wrap your gifts, I recently found this dissolvable wrapping paper. How cool is that? No recycling needed. Just let this eco paper rinse down the drain when you’re done. And don’t worry; it’s safe for our waterways.

Now, on to the gifts!

Holiday gift ideas1. Eslla Vegan Bag, $455

I love this handbag (I have it in black and green!). It’s made from upcycled cactus leaves! It’s so sexy and so sustainable. It’s Fair Trade certified, vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harmful PVCs. This will be a holiday highlight for the bag lovers on your list.

SHOP NOW2. Frida Rome Wallet + Bags, $150-$514

Frida Rome makes the most chic bags. The little one is for going out at night and running around. The bigger one I use for travel, business, and anywhere else I want to bring an elevated look. I also love the wallet, too — so cute. Everything is made from vegan materials like cactus and pineapple leather and the company has a sustainability commitment so you’ll feel extra good about gifting these.

SHOP NOW 3. JW PEI Mini Flap Crossbody Bag, $89 

How cute are these crossbody bags from JW Pei? Made with vegan materials like upcycled plastic bottles, these bags can be dressed up or down. Perfect for the fashion lovers on your list. 

SHOP BLACK CROC  SHOP IVORY LIZARD4. Miomojo Backpack + TECLA Bag, €175.00 to €365

I love the bag and backpacks from Miomojo and use them all the time. The bags are made from corn leather and sure to wow the eco-conscious giftees on your list. The bio-based material is PETA-approved and non-GMO. The backpack is made from 35 percent recycled nylon. Other materials are made from Forest Stewardship Certified viscose or post-consumer recycled polyester. So cute!

SHOP BAG SHOP BACKPACK 5. Terra Thread Cadera Fanny Pack and Duffle, $35

How about an organic cotton fanny pack for your friends who love to hike? They can wear this over the shoulder or around the waist so they’re hands-free. It’s another great practical gift that will keep on giving. (It’s perfect for air travel, too.) Terra Thread also makes a super cute duffle bag you can use for travel, camping and so much more.

SHOP FANNY PACKSHOP DUFFLE6. Daughters of India Dresses, $299

Aren’t these dresses lovely? The naturally loose fit makes them a great choice if you’re not sure about sizing. They can be easily dressed up with a belt and boots. They’re also great for traveling, especially if you’re headed someplace warm.

SHOP NOW7. Doen Trench Coat, $449

This showstopper is made from heavyweight water-resistant cotton twill. This design is inspired by the Bolton coat of the ‘70s and is so stylish. If there’s someone on your list in need of a new coat, this is the one.

SHOP NOW8. Tradlands Relaxed Button-Up Shirt, $96

I love this cute button-up cotton gingham shirt. You can dress it down with jeans or cargo pants, or dress it up under a blazer or with a skirt. A fun gift for mom or the fashion lovers on your list.

SHOP NOW9. Doen Diana Jean, $198

Nothing beats a classic pair of denim jeans, right? And this straight-leg rinse-wash with button fly pair from Doen is delightful. Made in Los Angeles from premium materials, you’ll give Santa a run for his money with these under the tree on Christmas morning.

SHOP NOW10. Spiritual Gangster Athletic Wear, from $58

Yoga lovers on your list? Spiritual Gangster essentials will tick all the boxes. Made from recycled materials, the Brooklyn Dream Tech leggings are comfortable and cute enough to wear when you’re not in the studio. And the One Shoulder Crop Tank could easily do double duty on the mat or in the club.

SHOP LEGGINGS SHOP CROP TANK11. Alohas Watercolor Black Boots, $120

Black boots are a winter-style must — they go with everything. The only problem? They go with everything, which means they wear down quicker and need replacing. For the boot lover you’re shopping for, I live and die in this cute pair from Alohas. It’s affordable but luxe and for the girl who wears black boots with everything, she won’t miss a beat.

SHOP NOW12. Katari pointed knee boots, Lulus, $56

These faux crocodile leather knee-high boots are showstoppers. For the shoe and boot lovers on your list, you can’t go wrong with these.

SHOP NOW13. Brave Gentleman New Lover Boot, $240

The guy in your life will be so thrilled to get these vegan boots! Not only are they made from the highest-quality vegan materials, but just look at them. These stunners need to go out, and that means a fun night on the town for you both. 

SHOP NOW14. Mate the Label Men’s Fleece Sweatpants, $138

For the guy who loves to cozy up in a pair of sweats, this is the ultimate pair from a brand I love, Mate the Label. Made from premium 100 percent organic cotton, these are so soft and luxe the guys on your list will want to wear them everywhere.

SHOP NOW15. Idle Silk Robes, $178

These sexy, chic robes are so comfortable to wear — everyone will love them. Men love to rub their hands all over them, by the way! And, bonus: they’re eco and sustainably made from deadstock materials. But all your giftee will care about is how comfortable it is to wear. I have one in black and one in pink and I am obsessed with both.

SHOP NOW16. Conscious Citizen Sweatsuit, $143

If you’re not getting or gifting a sweatsuit this holiday season was it really even Christmas? It’s an essential gift for everyone on your list. And this set is a must. I live in these sweats — they almost never come off. It comes in gorgeous colors and is made from 100 percent organic cotton. Win-win.

SHOP NOW18. Please Don’t Eat the Homies Sweatshirt, $98

Enough said, right? Don’t eat the homies. For your animal-loving friends, this is going to be a favorite. I will be getting this for my son’s Hannuka gift. It’s so good for young people and all people, really!

SHOP NOW17. Bamboo Pajama Set, Cozy Earth, $85

For the women on your list, PJs are also a thoughtful holiday gift, especially when they’re made from sustainable bamboo. It’s a super soft material that’s renewable and this set comes in so many cute colors. 

SHOP NOW19. Kids Organic Cotton Pajama Set, City Threads, $23.99

For the littles on your list, cozy PJs are a holiday essential. It’s a physical representation of the comfort of the season, right? Your kids want to put these soft, organic pajamas on immediately, and you’ll feel good knowing they’re wearing something better for their bodies and the planet. These come in tons of colors and sizes up to 16 for kids of all ages.

SHOP NOW20. Votch Watches $100-$120

Watches are always in style and they’re an excellent choice for those on your list who are stylish but hard to shop for. All of Votch’s watches are made with cruelty-free, vegan materials, so you’ll feel good about gifting this timepiece. They’re affordable, too, under $120.

SHOP NOW21. Solios Watch, $295

This is such a cool watch! It is charged by the sun; all you need is 2 hours of sunlight exposure to power the watch for six months — that’s 180 days of power. So innovative, right? You can forget swapping in new batteries or looking for chargers. Plus it comes in great styles that will work for everyone on your list.

SHOP NOW 22. Aurate White Sapphire Tennis Bracelet, $260

Tennis bracelets are all the rage right now, but skip the mined diamonds and opt for a sustainably made option from Aurate that uses white sapphires and recycled gold instead. Gift clean jewelry for the clearest conscience like this one.

SHOP NOW23. Idyl Jewelry, from $345

Made from lab-grown diamonds and traceable gold, Idly prides itself on being an ethical jewelry label. There’s so much to choose from! I love the popular Lena necklace and Lucia diamond stud earrings. I live in these — I never take them off.

SHOP LENA SHOP LUCIA24. Etnia Sunglasses, $255

Whether you’re shopping for Anna Wintour or someone who looks equally as cool in sunglasses, put Etnia at the top of your list. I really like all of the options, especially these cute green ones. I wear them a lot. This is an extra nice gift for someone traveling to warm weather soon.

SHOP NOW25. P.F. Candle Co., $24

Candles are so easy to gift to anyone. But just be sure you’re gifting a stunner that’s also free from toxic ingredients phthalates, parabens, and artificial fragrances, like these PF Candle Company options. So cute and the scents are really fun.

SHOP NOW26. Makana Candles, $25

It’s difficult to find candles that are made with essential oils and not chemical fragrances. and I appreciate how Makana is that they are using coconut and soy waxes, lead-free cotton wicking, and phthalate-free fragrances blended with pure essential oils instead of artificial fragrances.

SHOP NOW 27. Pact Sheets and Towels, from $20

We spend a third of our lives in bed. Did you know that cotton is one of the most heavily sprayed agricultural crops? We can do better than that like these organic sheets from Pact. All of my fancy guests have enjoyed them. There are some great towels as well.

SHOP SHEETS  SHOP TOWELS28. Lighter Sticks, Reidea, $27

These rechargeable lighters are such a nice stocking stuffer for your outdoor-loving friends and family. Windproof and flameless, you’ll never want to go camping without them.

SHOP NOW29. Scent Beauty Fragrance, $24.99

This lovely-smelling toilet spray is free from harsh chemicals bad for us and the planet. Made from upcycled and sustainably sourced ingredients and those sustainably sourced. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and PETA-approved. It’s also free from synthetic colors, as well as parabens, sulfates and phthalates.

SHOP NOW30. Bkr Insulated Cup, $42

Don’t underestimate the power of a reusable cup, mug, or bottle as a holiday gift! Gifting practical and reusable items is truly the gift that keeps on giving. These are such great gifts for everyone on your list, especially those hard to shop for. This insulated cup is a must for the coffee, matcha, or tea drinkers on your list. And it works for cool drinks, too, once the warmer months come back around.

SHOP NOW31. Fellow Carter Coffee Mug, $30

This sleek coffee mug heat-locks your coffee or tea for a drink that will stay warm all the way to the office and then some. Plus, its cool design will make you feel like you’re from the future. Gift it to the coffee lovers on your list and get one for yourself, too.

SHOP NOW 32. Hawkins New York Glassware, from $28

Glassware is another gift that works for the hard to shop for on your list. It’s especially lovely for new homeowners or newlyweds. And this very pretty set is all hand-blown for a gorgeous look. Use them for wine, lemonade, seltzer, oat milk or anything else. Nab the matching pitcher if you really want to impress.

SHOP NOW33. Bindewerk Journals, from $10

Some thoughts flow better on paper. And l’m guessing a journal is perfect for someone on your list. I like these notebooks from Bindewerk. I have the wood one and it’s very nice. The linen ones are cute, too. Bindedwerk creatively reuses waste through recycling and donations. It also uses FSC-certified paper and runs on green energy. It’s a super green company worth checking out.  

SHOP WOODENSHOP LINEN34. Ikaati Tea, $20

Prepare for all the oohs and aahs when this package is opened. Ikaati Teas are so, so yummy and fragrant. You will stun your giftees and make others jealous! So maybe gift a selection from Ikaati to everyone on your list this year. I love the Jasmine and the Royal Breakfast, too.

SHOP NOW35. Nibel Vegan Charcuterie Box, contact for pricing

If you’re in Los Angeles and think charcuterie is the opposite of vegan food, just look at these boxes from the local plant-based charcuterie company Nibel. They are loaded with yummy plant-based meats and hand-crafted cheeses. Plus, there are spicy mustards, fresh fruits, crisp crackers, and so much more. Bear gobbled this up so fast! Check out the Nibel grazing boxes — they will absolutely wow your friends and holiday guests. So, so good!

SHOP NOW36. Hu Chocolate, $49

I love Hu Chocolate. The company promises “no weird ingredients” and while weird can be fun, I get what they’re promising here. They mean no risky ingredients like artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. All you get is a delicious, creamy chocolate that’s healthier than the majority of the junk out there. Put this chocolate in a box as a gift on its own or stuff it into stockings. You can’t go wrong with either. I love the Cashew and Vanilla Bean Hunks and the Sour Golden Berries Hunks, but there are many to choose from!

SHOP NOW37. Glow Chocolate

Another yummy chocolate that’s healthier than the conventional stuff. Glow has no refined sugars and very clean ingredients. The Truffles, Bark, and Nut Butter Cups are some of my favorites. The whole line is very pretty and you can even buy a truffle mix and make the chocolate at home yourself for a fun treat.

SHOP NOW38. Spunky Pup Clean Earth Collection recycled dog toy, $10

Pups are part of the family, too, and kids love making sure there’s something for them. This cute plush toy will bring your dog hours of fun while helping to use up ocean-bound plastic.

SHOP NOW39. Mountain Dog Leashes, $39.95

For dogs and dog parents, the leashes from Mountain Dog are such a nice gift. I’ve been using them on my pups for years — they’re sturdy and comfortable. 

SHOP NOW 40. John Masters Vanilla Blood Orange Body Milk, $24

This lotion smells so lovely! Made with organic ingredients that leave skin feeling soft and sweet, it’s the perfect gift for anyone on your list.

SHOP NOW41. Shades of You Gift Set, ILIA Beauty, $98

For the beauty lovers on your list, Ilia is a delight — a clean ingredient kit that packs in all the basics: a Super Serum Skin SPF Tint for dewy-looking skin, a multi stick for pops of color on lips or cheeks, a buffing brush, and Ilia’s award-winning mascara (contains beeswax).

SHOP NOW42. Carter + Jane Everything Oil, $128

Carter + Jane says that the Everything Oil replaces all other skincare products in your routine. It’s an incredible oil made from prickly pear seed oil (those purple fruits on the cactus). You can use this one all over your face, eyes, lips, neck, and décolletage for deep moisturizing without clogging skin or leaving it greasy. This smells so weird at first. I made such a fuss about it, but trust me – stick with it and you’ll love it in a week or so. Once I got used to it, I became obsessed with the smell. Made with 100 percent USDA-certified organic, sustainably sourced, high-purity, cold-pressed prickly pear seed oil. Gift this to the skincare lovers on your list — including yourself!

SHOP NOW43. Garden Apothecary Toner and Serum, from $48

The Full Bloom Fog toning mist has been in my skincare regimen for years. It’s so yummy and delicous smelling — reminds me of chocolate. Who doesn’t love a good spritz of botanicals to refresh and hydrate your skin? And add Garden Apothecary’s serum IS made from a blend of plant oils including sesame, jojoba, rosehip, and borage, among others for a silky smooth moisturizing finish. 

SHOP TONER SHOP SERUM  44. The Body Deli, from $16

This is meticulously handmade skincare crafted from raw plants and superfoods. It’s so fresh that some products need to be refrigerated. It’s a super fun and effective line and they all smell so delicious. I’m particularly fond of the blueberry scrub, the melon cleanser, and the vanilla body butter, but you’ll find plenty more to gift here as well.

SHOP NOW45. True Botanicals Radiance Oil, $110

The True Botanicals Radiance Oil ticks all the boxes for a luxe moisturizing oil rich in ceramides, fatty acids, and antioxidants. It goes on sheen and soft without feeling greasy and leaves skin visibly hydrated and glowy. It’s a must for skincare enthusiasts of any age.

SHOP NOW46. Carasoin Cold Fusion Intense Moisture, $120

This cold-pressed moisturizing cream is as luxe as it gets. Made with a who’s-who of skincare superstar oils including shea butter, hemp seed, jojoba, rosehip, kukui, and pumpkin seed, this blend delivers superior absorption. All you need is a pea-sized amount for nourishing, hydrating protection.

SHOP NOW 47. Himalaya Mint Toothpaste, $7.99

Toothpaste as a holiday gift? Hear me out! Self-care is the gift that keeps on giving, and for the health-focused, it’s an easy option. Trust me, they’ll get it and enjoy this fluoride-free mint toothpaste from Himalaya.

SHOP NOW48. Mykind Organic Elder Gummies, $37.99

Gift a little immune support with our Mykind Elder Gummies. Drop these in every stocking — and the thoughtful gift will be met with gratitude.

SHOP NOW49. Prenatal + Kids Gummies, $37.99

If there’s a mom-to-be on your list, she’ll love the Mykind Prenantal vitamins. Because ours are made from whole foods, they won’t make her gag like most prenatal vitamins. Plus, prenatals can be pricey, so gifting her one she can keep down is a gift unto itself! And for the moms to littles, our Kids Gummies are so good! Kids love the taste and parents love that they’re made from super clean, organic, whole-food ingredients. 

SHOP PRENATALS  SHOP KIDS50. Mykind Organics Golden Milk Powder, $21.99

For the wellness lovers on your list, our Golden Milk Powder is a must. This centuries-old Ayurvedic formula blends turmeric with ginger, black pepper, and Ashwagandha. This delicious powder mixes up with your (dairy-free!) milk of choice for a creamy, healthy latte for relaxation and recovery. It’s such a perfect drink for the winter months. We also have a Turmeric Booster powder and Turmeric Gummies for the turmeric lovers on your list!

SHOP NOW51. Mykind Organics Spray Vitamins, from $14.99

Put these in every stocking you’re stuffing this year. They also make great gifts for Secret Santas in the office, too. This time of year, I especially love the vitamin C and D3 sprays for supporting immune health. And the B12 will support your energy levels during the craziness of the holiday season and well into the new year. 

SHOP NOW52. Mykind Organics Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies, $25.99

Do you know about apple cider vinegar’s benefits? It has some pretty die-hard fans, and if you happen to have one of those fans on your list, our ACV gummies are the perfect gift. All organic and made with real fruit. No artificial ingredients and no gelatin — just pure plant goodness. The collection includes formulas to support natural energy, digestion, and healthy weight. 

SHOP NOW53. Mykind Organics Plant Collagen Builder, $36.99

If you’re gifting a bunch of topical products to the skincare junkies on your list, be sure they’re clean and natural. And to complete the package, be sure to gift them another big skincare support product with our Mykind Organics Plant Collagen Builder. Made from whole food ingredients that support your skin’s natural elasticity, the skincare lovers on your list will be so grateful.

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My 52 Favorite Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are here again, and, if you’re like me, it can all be a bit overwhelming. Mostly in good ways, of course, but also — all the busyness of the season, especially the gift-giving. It’s a lot!

I’ve pulled together some suggestions that I hope can help with some meaningful gift ideas and products I’ve personally tried, tested, and loved.

And for the person on your list who insists they don’t need anything (good for them!), why not consider a donation to a nonprofit organization doing meaningful work for others? You can read about charities I love, here.

Meaningful gifting Ideas:

Bake assorted desserts (from my book or any other vegan recipe book) and gift them in boxes or decorative jars. Be sure to include the recipes (printed on recycled paper of course), so your friends and loved ones can recreate the kind treats.Pay the donation fee to an animal shelter or rescue group for your giftee to adopt an animal of their choice (when they are ready to adopt, of course!).A package of online or IRL yoga classes to a favorite studioHand-make caramels and package them in vintage jars (be sure to send me some! My favorites!)A Gift Certificate to The RealReal for stunning, eco-friendly gently used high-end fashion.

Might I add that the Kind Diet and Kind Mama make excellent gifts? Mykind Organics sprays and vitamins make great stocking stuffers, too! (More on those in a bit).

And if you’re looking for a super cool, super eco way to wrap your gifts, I recently found this dissolvable wrapping paper. How cool is that? No recycling needed. Just let this eco paper rinse down the drain when you’re done. And don’t worry; it’s safe for our waterways.

Now, on to the gifts!

Holiday gift ideas1. Eslla Vegan Bag, $455

I love this handbag (I have it in black and green!). It’s made from upcycled cactus leaves! It’s so sexy and so sustainable. It’s Fair Trade certified, vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harmful PVCs. This will be a holiday highlight for the bag lovers on your list.

SHOP NOW2. Frida Rome Wallet + Bags, $150-$514

Frida Rome makes the most chic bags. The little one is for going out at night and running around. The bigger one I use for travel, business, and anywhere else I want to bring an elevated look. I also love the wallet, too — so cute. Everything is made from vegan materials like cactus and pineapple leather and the company has a sustainability commitment so you’ll feel extra good about gifting these.

SHOP NOW 3. JW PEI Mini Flap Crossbody Bag, $89 

How cute are these crossbody bags from JW Pei? Made with vegan materials like upcycled plastic bottles, these bags can be dressed up or down. Perfect for the fashion lovers on your list. 

SHOP BLACK CROC  SHOP IVORY LIZARD4. Miomojo Backpack + TECLA Bag, €175.00 to €365

I love the bag and backpacks from Miomojo and use them all the time. The bags are made from corn leather and sure to wow the eco-conscious giftees on your list. The bio-based material is PETA-approved and non-GMO. The backpack is made from 35 percent recycled nylon. Other materials are made from Forest Stewardship Certified viscose or post-consumer recycled polyester. So cute!

SHOP BAG SHOP BACKPACK 5. Terra Thread Cadera Fanny Pack and Duffle, $35

How about an organic cotton fanny pack for your friends who love to hike? They can wear this over the shoulder or around the waist so they’re hands-free. It’s another great practical gift that will keep on giving. (It’s perfect for air travel, too.) Terra Thread also makes a super cute duffle bag you can use for travel, camping and so much more.

SHOP FANNY PACKSHOP DUFFLE6. Daughters of India Dresses, $299

Aren’t these dresses lovely? The naturally loose fit makes them a great choice if you’re not sure about sizing. They can be easily dressed up with a belt and boots. They’re also great for traveling, especially if you’re headed someplace warm.

SHOP NOW7. Doen Trench Coat, $449

This showstopper is made from heavyweight water-resistant cotton twill. This design is inspired by the Bolton coat of the ‘70s and is so stylish. If there’s someone on your list in need of a new coat, this is the one.

SHOP NOW8. Tradlands Relaxed Button-Up Shirt, $96

I love this cute button-up cotton gingham shirt. You can dress it down with jeans or cargo pants, or dress it up under a blazer or with a skirt. A fun gift for mom or the fashion lovers on your list.

SHOP NOW9. Doen Diana Jean, $198

Nothing beats a classic pair of denim jeans, right? And this straight-leg rinse-wash with button fly pair from Doen is delightful. Made in Los Angeles from premium materials, you’ll give Santa a run for his money with these under the tree on Christmas morning.

SHOP NOW10. Spiritual Gangster Athletic Wear, from $58

Yoga lovers on your list? Spiritual Gangster essentials will tick all the boxes. Made from recycled materials, the Brooklyn Dream Tech leggings are comfortable and cute enough to wear when you’re not in the studio. And the One Shoulder Crop Tank could easily do double duty on the mat or in the club.

SHOP LEGGINGS SHOP CROP TANK11. Alohas Watercolor Black Boots, $120

Black boots are a winter-style must — they go with everything. The only problem? They go with everything, which means they wear down quicker and need replacing. For the boot lover you’re shopping for, I live and die in this cute pair from Alohas. It’s affordable but luxe and for the girl who wears black boots with everything, she won’t miss a beat.

SHOP NOW12. Katari pointed knee boots, Lulus, $56

These faux crocodile leather knee-high boots are showstoppers. For the shoe and boot lovers on your list, you can’t go wrong with these.

SHOP NOW13. Brave Gentleman New Lover Boot, $240

The guy in your life will be so thrilled to get these vegan boots! Not only are they made from the highest-quality vegan materials, but just look at them. These stunners need to go out, and that means a fun night on the town for you both. 

SHOP NOW14. Mate the Label Men’s Fleece Sweatpants, $138

For the guy who loves to cozy up in a pair of sweats, this is the ultimate pair from a brand I love, Mate the Label. Made from premium 100 percent organic cotton, these are so soft and luxe the guys on your list will want to wear them everywhere.

SHOP NOW15. Idle Silk Robes, $178

These sexy, chic robes are so comfortable to wear — everyone will love them. Men love to rub their hands all over them, by the way! And, bonus: they’re eco and sustainably made from deadstock materials. But all your giftee will care about is how comfortable it is to wear. I have one in black and one in pink and I am obsessed with both.

SHOP NOW16. Conscious Citizen Sweatsuit, $143

If you’re not getting or gifting a sweatsuit this holiday season was it really even Christmas? It’s an essential gift for everyone on your list. And this set is a must. I live in these sweats — they almost never come off. It comes in gorgeous colors and is made from 100 percent organic cotton. Win-win.

SHOP NOW18. Please Don’t Eat the Homies Sweatshirt, $98

Enough said, right? Don’t eat the homies. For your animal-loving friends, this is going to be a favorite. I will be getting this for my son’s Hannuka gift. It’s so good for young people and all people, really!

SHOP NOW17. Bamboo Pajama Set, Cozy Earth, $85

For the women on your list, PJs are also a thoughtful holiday gift, especially when they’re made from sustainable bamboo. It’s a super soft material that’s renewable and this set comes in so many cute colors. 

SHOP NOW19. Kids Organic Cotton Pajama Set, City Threads, $23.99

For the littles on your list, cozy PJs are a holiday essential. It’s a physical representation of the comfort of the season, right? Your kids want to put these soft, organic pajamas on immediately, and you’ll feel good knowing they’re wearing something better for their bodies and the planet. These come in tons of colors and sizes up to 16 for kids of all ages.

SHOP NOW20. Votch Watches $100-$120

Watches are always in style and they’re an excellent choice for those on your list who are stylish but hard to shop for. All of Votch’s watches are made with cruelty-free, vegan materials, so you’ll feel good about gifting this timepiece. They’re affordable, too, under $120.

SHOP NOW21. Solios Watch, $295

This is such a cool watch! It is charged by the sun; all you need is 2 hours of sunlight exposure to power the watch for six months — that’s 180 days of power. So innovative, right? You can forget swapping in new batteries or looking for chargers. Plus it comes in great styles that will work for everyone on your list.

SHOP NOW 22. Aurate White Sapphire Tennis Bracelet, $260

Tennis bracelets are all the rage right now, but skip the mined diamonds and opt for a sustainably made option from Aurate that uses white sapphires and recycled gold instead. Gift clean jewelry for the clearest conscience like this one.

SHOP NOW23. Idyl Jewelry, from $345

Made from lab-grown diamonds and traceable gold, Idly prides itself on being an ethical jewelry label. There’s so much to choose from! I love the popular Lena necklace and Lucia diamond stud earrings. I live in these — I never take them off.

SHOP LENA SHOP LUCIA24. Etnia Sunglasses, $255

Whether you’re shopping for Anna Wintour or someone who looks equally as cool in sunglasses, put Etnia at the top of your list. I really like all of the options, especially these cute green ones. I wear them a lot. This is an extra nice gift for someone traveling to warm weather soon.

SHOP NOW25. P.F. Candle Co., $24

Candles are so easy to gift to anyone. But just be sure you’re gifting a stunner that’s also free from toxic ingredients phthalates, parabens, and artificial fragrances, like these PF Candle Company options. So cute and the scents are really fun.

SHOP NOW26. Makana Candles, $25

It’s difficult to find candles that are made with essential oils and not chemical fragrances. and I appreciate how Makana is that they are using coconut and soy waxes, lead-free cotton wicking, and phthalate-free fragrances blended with pure essential oils instead of artificial fragrances.

SHOP NOW 27. Pact Sheets and Towels, from $20

We spend a third of our lives in bed. Did you know that cotton is one of the most heavily sprayed agricultural crops? We can do better than that like these organic sheets from Pact. All of my fancy guests have enjoyed them. There are some great towels as well.

SHOP SHEETS  SHOP TOWELS28. Lighter Sticks, Reidea, $27

These rechargeable lighters are such a nice stocking stuffer for your outdoor-loving friends and family. Windproof and flameless, you’ll never want to go camping without them.

SHOP NOW29. Scent Beauty Fragrance, $24.99

This lovely-smelling toilet spray is free from harsh chemicals bad for us and the planet. Made from upcycled and sustainably sourced ingredients and those sustainably sourced. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and PETA-approved. It’s also free from synthetic colors, as well as parabens, sulfates and phthalates.

SHOP NOW30. Bkr Insulated Cup, $42

Don’t underestimate the power of a reusable cup, mug, or bottle as a holiday gift! Gifting practical and reusable items is truly the gift that keeps on giving. These are such great gifts for everyone on your list, especially those hard to shop for. This insulated cup is a must for the coffee, matcha, or tea drinkers on your list. And it works for cool drinks, too, once the warmer months come back around.

SHOP NOW31. Fellow Carter Coffee Mug, $30

This sleek coffee mug heat-locks your coffee or tea for a drink that will stay warm all the way to the office and then some. Plus, its cool design will make you feel like you’re from the future. Gift it to the coffee lovers on your list and get one for yourself, too.

SHOP NOW 32. Hawkins New York Glassware, from $28

Glassware is another gift that works for the hard to shop for on your list. It’s especially lovely for new homeowners or newlyweds. And this very pretty set is all hand-blown for a gorgeous look. Use them for wine, lemonade, seltzer, oat milk or anything else. Nab the matching pitcher if you really want to impress.

SHOP NOW33. Bindewerk Journals, from $10

Some thoughts flow better on paper. And l’m guessing a journal is perfect for someone on your list. I like these notebooks from Bindewerk. I have the wood one and it’s very nice. The linen ones are cute, too. Bindedwerk creatively reuses waste through recycling and donations. It also uses FSC-certified paper and runs on green energy. It’s a super green company worth checking out.  

SHOP WOODENSHOP LINEN34. Ikaati Tea, $20

Prepare for all the oohs and aahs when this package is opened. Ikaati Teas are so, so yummy and fragrant. You will stun your giftees and make others jealous! So maybe gift a selection from Ikaati to everyone on your list this year. I love the Jasmine and the Royal Breakfast, too.

SHOP NOW35. Nibel Vegan Charcuterie Box, contact for pricing

If you’re thinking charcuterie is the opposite of vegan food, just look at these boxes from Nibel. They are loaded with yummy plant-based meats and hand-crafted cheeses. Plus, there are spicy mustards, fresh fruits, crisp crackers, and so much more. Bear gobbled this up so fast! Check out the Nibel grazing boxes — they will absolutely wow your friends and holiday guests. Made in Los Angeles but ships nationwide. So, so good!

SHOP NOW36. Hu Chocolate, $49

I love Hu Chocolate. The company promises “no weird ingredients” and while weird can be fun, I get what they’re promising here. They mean no risky ingredients like artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. All you get is a delicious, creamy chocolate that’s healthier than the majority of the junk out there. Put this chocolate in a box as a gift on its own or stuff it into stockings. You can’t go wrong with either. I love the Cashew and Vanilla Bean Hunks and the Sour Golden Berries Hunks, but there are many to choose from!

SHOP NOW37. Spunky Pup Clean Earth Collection recycled dog toy, $10

Pups are part of the family, too, and kids love making sure there’s something for them. This cute plush toy will bring your dog hours of fun while helping to use up ocean-bound plastic.

SHOP NOW38. Mountain Dog Leashes, $39.95

For dogs and dog parents, the leashes from Mountain Dog are such a nice gift. I’ve been using them on my pups for years — they’re sturdy and comfortable. 

SHOP NOW 39. John Masters Vanilla Blood Orange Body Milk, $24

This lotion smells so lovely! Made with organic ingredients that leave skin feeling soft and sweet, it’s the perfect gift for anyone on your list.

SHOP NOW40. Shades of You Gift Set, ILIA Beauty, $98

For the beauty lovers on your list, Ilia is a delight — a clean ingredient kit that packs in all the basics: a Super Serum Skin SPF Tint for dewy-looking skin, a multi stick for pops of color on lips or cheeks, a buffing brush, and Ilia’s award-winning mascara (contains beeswax).

SHOP NOW41. Carter + Jane Everything Oil, $128

Carter + Jane says that the Everything Oil replaces all other skincare products in your routine. It’s an incredible oil made from prickly pear seed oil (those purple fruits on the cactus). You can use this one all over your face, eyes, lips, neck, and décolletage for deep moisturizing without clogging skin or leaving it greasy. This smells so weird at first. I made such a fuss about it, but trust me – stick with it and you’ll love it in a week or so. Once I got used to it, I became obsessed with the smell. Made with 100 percent USDA-certified organic, sustainably sourced, high-purity, cold-pressed prickly pear seed oil. Gift this to the skincare lovers on your list — including yourself!

SHOP NOW42. Garden Apothecary Toner and Serum, from $48

The Full Bloom Fog toning mist has been in my skincare regimen for years. It’s so yummy and delicous smelling — reminds me of chocolate. Who doesn’t love a good spritz of botanicals to refresh and hydrate your skin? And add Garden Apothecary’s serum IS made from a blend of plant oils including sesame, jojoba, rosehip, and borage, among others for a silky smooth moisturizing finish. 

SHOP TONER SHOP SERUM  43. The Body Deli, from $16

This is meticulously handmade skincare crafted from raw plants and superfoods. It’s so fresh that some products need to be refrigerated. It’s a super fun and effective line and they all smell so delicious. I’m particularly fond of the blueberry scrub, the melon cleanser, and the vanilla body butter, but you’ll find plenty more to gift here as well.

SHOP NOW44. True Botanicals Radiance Oil, $110

The True Botanicals Radiance Oil ticks all the boxes for a luxe moisturizing oil rich in ceramides, fatty acids, and antioxidants. It goes on sheen and soft without feeling greasy and leaves skin visibly hydrated and glowy. It’s a must for skincare enthusiasts of any age.

SHOP NOW45. Carasoin Cold Fusion Intense Moisture, $120

This cold-pressed moisturizing cream is as luxe as it gets. Made with a who’s-who of skincare superstar oils including shea butter, hemp seed, jojoba, rosehip, kukui, and pumpkin seed, this blend delivers superior absorption. All you need is a pea-sized amount for nourishing, hydrating protection.

SHOP NOW 46. Himalaya Mint Toothpaste, $7.99

Toothpaste as a holiday gift? Hear me out! Self-care is the gift that keeps on giving, and for the health-focused, it’s an easy option. Trust me, they’ll get it and enjoy this fluoride-free mint toothpaste from Himalaya.

SHOP NOW47. Mykind Organic Elder Gummies, $37.99

Gift a little immune support with our Mykind Elder Gummies. Drop these in every stocking — and the thoughtful gift will be met with gratitude.

SHOP NOW48. Prenatal + Kids Gummies, $37.99

If there’s a mom-to-be on your list, she’ll love the Mykind Prenantal vitamins. Because ours are made from whole foods, they won’t make her gag like most prenatal vitamins. Plus, prenatals can be pricey, so gifting her one she can keep down is a gift unto itself! And for the moms to littles, our Kids Gummies are so good! Kids love the taste and parents love that they’re made from super clean, organic, whole-food ingredients. 

SHOP PRENATALS  SHOP KIDS49. Mykind Organics Golden Milk Powder, $21.99

For the wellness lovers on your list, our Golden Milk Powder is a must. This centuries-old Ayurvedic formula blends turmeric with ginger, black pepper, and Ashwagandha. This delicious powder mixes up with your (dairy-free!) milk of choice for a creamy, healthy latte for relaxation and recovery. It’s such a perfect drink for the winter months. We also have a Turmeric Booster powder and Turmeric Gummies for the turmeric lovers on your list!

SHOP NOW50. Mykind Organics Spray Vitamins, from $14.99

Put these in every stocking you’re stuffing this year. They also make great gifts for Secret Santas in the office, too. This time of year, I especially love the vitamin C and D3 sprays for supporting immune health. And the B12 will support your energy levels during the craziness of the holiday season and well into the new year. 

SHOP NOW51. Mykind Organics Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies, $25.99

Do you know about apple cider vinegar’s benefits? It has some pretty die-hard fans, and if you happen to have one of those fans on your list, our ACV gummies are the perfect gift. All organic and made with real fruit. No artificial ingredients and no gelatin — just pure plant goodness. The collection includes formulas to support natural energy, digestion, and healthy weight. 

SHOP NOW52. Mykind Organics Plant Collagen Builder, $36.99

If you’re gifting a bunch of topical products to the skincare junkies on your list, be sure they’re clean and natural. And to complete the package, be sure to gift them another big skincare support product with our Mykind Organics Plant Collagen Builder. Made from whole food ingredients that support your skin’s natural elasticity, the skincare lovers on your list will be so grateful.

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Thanksgiving Pizza

This Thanksgiving pizza from Chef Chloe looks yum! I haven’t tried it, but if you do, let me know how it turns out.

Ingredients
Pizza Dough
(one package) 0.25 ounce active dry yeast
(110 degrees F) 1 cup warm water
1 cup all-purpose flour (or half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat flour), plus extra for rolling 2.5 cup
1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
Garlic White Bean Puree 
15 oz can cannellini or other white beans rinsed and drained
0.25 cup olive oil
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic
0.5 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp sea salt
0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Pizza Topping
4 tbsp olive oil
1 thinly sliced onion
1 pinch of sea salt
1 pinch of freshly ground black pepper
1/2 inch cubes peeled butternut squash 2 cups
1 cup spinach
1 apple, peeled and thinly sliced (preferred: honeycrisp, gala, or fuji)

Directions
Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
Let stand until bubbles form, about 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine flour, oil, salt, sugar, and the yeast mixture.
Using lightly floured hands or an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix until a stiff dough has formed.
If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle extra flour 1 teaspoon at a time as needed. Place the dough in a large well-oiled bowl and rotate the ball of dough so it is completely covered with the oil. This will prevent the dough from sticking to the bowl as it rises.
Cover with a dry kitchen towel and place in a warm part of the kitchen until it has doubled in volume (about 1 to 1 ½ hours).
Place dough on a lightly floured work surface, shape into a disc, and knead for five minutes.
Use dough immediately or cover tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze for a later use.
Thaw to room temperature before using.
Puree
Blend cannellini beans, olive oil, water, lemon juice, garlic, dried thyme, sea salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth.
To make the pizza topping and assemble the pizza
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat and sauté onions until soft and lightly caramelized, about 20 to 30 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
In the meantime, toss remaining 2 tablespoons oil with squash and season generously with salt and pepper. Transfer to a large rimmed baking sheet and roast for 30 to 35 minutes until squash is fork tender, turning once or twice with a spatula. Remove from oven and set aside. Turn heat up to 450 degrees F.
Brush a large-rimmed baking sheet (approximately 9- x 13- inch) with oil.
Stretch pizza dough into a rectangle and fit it into the prepared baking sheet. Spread a layer of the Garlic White Bean Puree evenly over the rolled-out Pizza Dough. You may not want to use all of the puree, just enough to coat the dough. On top of the dough, arrange the spinach, caramelized onions, roasted butternut squash, and apple slices. Season with salt and pepper, and brush the edges of the crust with olive oil.
Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, rotating midway, until the crust is slightly browned or golden. Let cool, slice, and devour!

Thanksgiving Foragers Pie: Wild Mushrooms, Herb Gravy, and Sweet Potato Mash In A Flaky Spelt Crust

Do your holiday guests right with this incredible vegan Thanksgiving foragers pie.

Thanksgiving Foragers Pie: Wild Mushrooms, Herb Gravy, and Sweet Potato Mash In A Flaky Spelt Crust

Spelt Crust
1.5 cups Spelt Flour
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
3 teaspoon baking powder
2 Tablespoon olive oil
1/3 cup Filtered boiling water

Directions:
Place the flour, sea salt and baking powder into a large bowl and mix. Use your fingers to rub the oil into the flour, until the mixture resembles something like fine bread crumbs.
Roll out Dough until ¼” thick Line pie pan with dough. Trim off excess dough.

Mushroom Filling
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
1 garlic cloves
1 1/4 cups vegetable stock
1/2 cup red wine
2 tablespoons flour
8 springs of thyme
1/8 teaspoon chili flakes
16 ounces mixed mushrooms, sliced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onion, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are starting to soften, Stir in the garlic, and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the flour and cook for one minute. Add the broth, red wine, thyme sprigs, and chili flakes and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, Add the mushrooms and let simmer gently until softened. Remove the sprigs of thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sweet Potato Mash
2 Pounds sweet potatoes peeled and chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Sea salt, to taste

Directions:
Put the sweet potato into a medium pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat. As soon as it starts boiling, reduce heat to medium and simmer minutes. The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork. Drain the water, and put potatoes back into the dry pot (no heat). Add olive oil and salt. Mash the potatoes with a masher, and stir everything together thoroughly Cover pot with a lid and set aside.

Mushroom Gravy
1/2 large onion, chopped
8 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons spelt flour
1 cup red wine
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, saute onions and mushrooms in oil until tender and mushrooms release their moisture, about 5 minutes. Add flour and stir to evenly coat. Slowly whisk in wine and then the broth. Simmer until thickened and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Scoop the mushroom mixture into the pie dish with crust so that it covers the whole bottom. Layer and spread the sweet potatoes evenly on top of the mushrooms, Bake at 375 degrees F for 35 minutes, remove from oven, and allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Have a Happy, Vegan Thanksgiving Feast

Over the years, we’ve gathered quite a number of great Thanksgiving recipes and treats to cook up for the holiday, so here’s a quick list of options for your vegan Thanksgiving feast.

This was my 2010 Thanksgiving Day menu. It was a very large crowd that year, so I decided to prep as much as I could in advance and buy some pre-made. It turned out to be a yummy meal.

Still stuck on your menu for this year? Check out this great list of recipe ideas. You’ll find some classics and some innovative twists. All plant-based and all so delicious!

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If you just aren’t able or don’t want to cook this year, a number of restaurants in Los Angeles and New York areas offer vegan options. I’m sure there are many more across the country, too! I’d call beforehand to make sure they are serving up a Thanksgiving Day menu.

 

And when the feasting is over and you feel like you may have indulged a little too much sweetness (it’s bound to happen), you could try my detox soup recipe. It’s light and healing. And you might also want to try this Cure-All Tea.

Top 5 Plant-Based Protein Hacks

It seems that everyone is interested in eating more plant-based meals these days, no matter what their eating style. That’s because eating a more plant-based diet can lower your carbon footprint, as well as reduce your risk of chronic disease. And the first step to moving towards a plant-based diet is to turn the plate from animal protein to plant proteins at more meals. That means swapping standard menu options like steak, baked chicken, and bacon and eggs to dishes like red beans and rice, curried lentils, and veggie burgers. But don’t worry, making those little swaps is so much easier (and delicious) than you think! There is a whole world of delicious, healthy, plant-based eating just waiting to be discovered.

Plant-Based Protein Hacks

1. Go With What You Know. The easiest way to kick into a plant-based lifestyle is to make easy, straightforward switches for your favorite foods. For example, do you love burgers? Then head to the supermarket and try out a few veggie, or “meatless” burgers until you find one that you really love. I enjoy flavorful veggie burgers made with whole ingredients, such as beans, lentils, grains and vegetables. Keep your eye on the nutrition facts label, looking for at least 7 grams of protein per serving.

2. Get Beany With It. I suggest basing at least one of your plant-based meals each day on this humble, protein-rich plant food: beans (also including lentils and dried peas). After all, this nutrient powerhouse is the cornerstone of traditional diets around the world, from chickpeas in the Middle East to black beans in Mexico. So, take the meat off your plate, and substitute it for beans, lentils, or dried peas more often. Try these classic bean hacks for starters:

Pack a whole grain burrito with black beans and veggiesFill a sandwich with hummus and roasted vegetablesFeast on home-made or canned vegetarian chiliToss pasta with white beans, garlic, olive oil, and spinachSimmer lentils with curry to serve with brown riceMake a hearty split pea soupTop your salad with kidney beans for lunch

3. Power Up with Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives. One easy swap you can make is to trade animal-based dairy products—milk, yogurt, cheese, cream cheese—with plant-based varieties. Great tasting, easy-to-use options await you in the supermarket. Find a plant-based milk alternative that offers a clean, bright taste, and high-quality nutritional value. I suggest you look for those that provide at least 6 grams of protein per serving, and about 30% of your daily vitamin D and calcium needs.

4. Go a Little Nuts. Another easy plant-protein hack is to turn to nuts and seeds for a punch of protein. One easy classic is the good old-fashioned PB and J—peanut butter is very rich in protein and can easily take the place of deli meat in your sandwich. But you can also think beyond peanut butter to a range of nuts and seeds and their butter, including pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and pumpkin seeds. One ounce (or about ¼ cup) of nuts and seeds or 2 tablespoons of nut or seed butter is the equivalent of an ounce of meat. Enjoy nuts and seeds on top of salads, stirred into pasta dishes or grain pilafs, or ground into homemade veggie burgers. Use nut or seed butters as a topping on toast, bread, flatbread, crackers, and fruit slices.

5. Get to Know Tofu. Once you’ve mastered a few of these steps, it’s time to turn to tofu as a wonderful plant-based superstar for your dinner plate. This simple, soy food can take the place of meat in just about anything, from lasagna to scrambled eggs to chef’s salad. Start experimenting with tofu by dicing it into a flavorful dish, such as stir-fry or curried vegetables. Then you can gradually try a few other swaps, such as grated tofu with turmeric in your morning scramble or chunks of tofu in your ratatouille recipe. Remember, tofu is a blank canvas, it absorbs the flavors of the foods it is served with, so make sure to serve it with dishes that are heavy on flavor, such as Asian, Italian, or Indian marinades or sauces.

For other plant-based protein-rich recipes, check out the following:

Vegan Tamale Pie Turmeric Rice and Black Bean Bowl Mediterranean Edamame Quinoa Bowl

Sharon Palmer, MSFS, RDN, is The Plant-Powered Dietitian, a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 18 years of experience in the field of plant-based nutrition and sustainability. Sharon also holds a Master of Science in Sustainable Food Systems. She’s the author of 2 books, The Plant-Powered Diet: The Lifelong Eating Plan for Achieving Optimal Health, Beginning Today and Plant-Powered for Life: Eat Your Way to Lasting Health with 52 Simple Steps & 125 Delicious Recipes.

 

Photo by Jo Sonn on Unsplash

Spray Vitamins Are More Than Just Convenient and Yummy: Here’s Why I Love Them

Let’s talk vitamins! Specifically, the Mykind Sprays. I love all of our supplements, of course, but I am such a big fan of our sprays. Have you tried them? Or any other spray vitamins?

Most of us are used to vitamins coming in pills or maybe chewables and gummies. But did you know that we have been selling sprays at Mykind for more than eight years?

Spray-based vitamins (also known as oral spray vitamins or micronutrient sprays) are convenient and may also be more effective way to reap the benefits of essential vitamins and nutrients. I love them and have been using our Mykind sprays since we launched them. Here’s what you need to know about micronutrient sprays.

Enhanced Absorption

Unlike pills that can lose some potency in the digestion process, spray-based vitamins have been praised for their potential to offer enhanced absorption. The nutrients in spray-based vitamins are absorbed directly through the mouth instead of having to go all the way through the digestive process. This gets them into the bloodstream nearly instantly for quicker and more efficient uptake of nutrients. I especially love this benefit when I’m feeling wiped out or drained, I can quickly and easily get a boost from a B12 spray in minutes. That’s so key when I’m on set or need energy to keep up with Bear!

Gentle and Convenient

Another one of the standout benefits of spray-based vitamins is their convenience. I mean, is anything more convenient? I keep the sprays in my bag all the time for a quick nutrient boost. Sprays are also easy to administer, requiring just a quick spritz into the mouth — no need to find water to help a pill go down. And have I mentioned yet how delicious they are? If pills or chalky powders make you a little gaggy, sprays are definitely the way to go.

Spray-based vitamins can also be a blessing for individuals with sensitive stomachs or those who experience discomfort, nausea, or other adverse reactions when taking traditional pill supplements, because they bypass the digestive tract. If you’ve ever felt nauseated after taking a vitamin or supplement, you know what I’m talking about here. Sprays can mitigate that issue.

Some people dread the taste (and aftertaste!) of pill supplements. But our Mykind spray-based vitamins come in yummy, fruity flavors that won’t make you cringe. In my case, even though Mykind vitamin pills don’t make me gag (because they’re so healthy and clean) if I can choose a delicious spray (or gummy), I’m going to do that. Bonus, right?

Flexible Dosing

Here’s another cool reason I love spray-based vitamins: they allow for more flexibility in dosing. You can easily adjust the number of sprays to increase or decrease the dose of the vitamin. This can be particularly useful for individuals who may have varying nutrient needs, or for those who are looking to tailor their supplement routine to their specific health goals. I love being able to control that in a way you just can’t with pills. 

Because of the dose adjustability, spray vitamins can also be suitable for individuals of all ages, including children and the elderly (who might also find swallowing pills challenging). It’s an inclusive alternative that can potentially benefit a wider demographic, making vitamin supplementation accessible and hassle-free for all age groups. 

Environmental Considerations

Here’s one more reason I’m such a fan of pray-based vitamins: they can have a smaller environmental impact than other vitamins. That’s because oral spray vitamin manufacturing processes typically require fewer resources, reducing their carbon footprint. Moreover, the packaging of these products is often designed to be recyclable, aligning with the increasing consumer demand for environmentally friendly products. 

Mykind Sprays

Like all of our other vitamins, Our Mykind sprays — vitamin C, B12, vitamin D, and our formulas for Sleep and Detox — are all vegan, made with organic food-based ingredients, contain no added sugars or stevia, and never contain genetically modified ingredients. They come in a range of delicious flavors like raspberry and tangerine.

Ready to give them a try? Shop the Mykind Organics Spray Vitamins and supplements below.

Mykind Organics Vitamin B12 SpraySHOP NOWMykind Organics Vegan D3 SpraySHOP NOWMykind Organics Vitamin C Spray (in Orange or Cherry-Tangerine)SHOP NOWMykind Organics Sleep Well R&R SpraySHOP NOWMykind Organics Liver Bitters Detox SpraySHOP NOW