Howard Murad's Blog, page 39

Celebrate 2014 – Looking Back on a Landmark Year

As 2014 comes to an end, and we begin to reflect on the events and activities of the last 12 months, I’d like to share some of my favorite things about this past year.

Celebrating 25 Years of Transforming Skincare

It’s hard to believe, but it’s been 25 years since I first launched Murad, Inc., and introduced the first of our clinical skincare products. My goal has always been to make beautiful, healthy skin attainable for everyone. A great deal has changed over the last 25 years but my goal remains the same.

Spending Time with Friends and Family

One of the greatest joys is to spend time with my grandkids, my children, my wife and my family at large (including my Murad office family!).  I feel particularly fortunate because not only do I live close to my children and grandchildren; I also work with two of my own children (Meet Jeff and Hilarie) and one of my nephews. The moments spent with loved ones are more precious than any material item and I am eternally grateful for them.

Launching The Dr. Murad Inspirations App

It has been very rewarding to be able to help and inspire people every morning with my art and the insights I have compiled from my work with patients. I believe life is art. And, for me, the correlation between life and art has a direct link to the world of health and wellness. I’m celebrating the launch of the app because it has provided an effective way to reach out and help or inspire a whole new audience of people, all over the world on a daily basis.

Giving Back Through the Murad Family Foundation

This year, the Murad Family Foundation celebrated its third anniversary. We are grateful to be in a position to help support the needs of our community and causes that can make a positive difference in the lives of others. Giving back feeds your sense of self and that’s why it is a fundamental part of an Inclusive Health lifestyle. Through our Family Foundation, we have found new ways to partner with wonderful non-profit organizations and promote Inclusive Health in education and action to help young people lead healthier, happier and more connected lives.

Developing a Program to Help Our Nation’s Veterans

Supporting out troops is something that has always been important to me, and I have had the privilege of being able to donate my time and skills to the VA hospital in Los Angeles for decades.  This year, I have been working closely with Dr. Rashmi Mullur (a staff endocrinologist with the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and assistant professor of medicine at UCLA) to develop a program and study to help treat veterans suffering from PTSD. I am delighted to share the news that the VA has given the green light to launch our study and program next year.  Bringing whole body wellness to these national heroes is sure to be a highlight of 2015.

Opening the First Murad Store

Opening a Murad retail store has been many years in the making and 2014 is the year that it finally became a reality! Our Global Flagship retail location is on West 3rd Street in Los Angeles. In addition to offering the full range of Murad products, the store also offers innovative services and activities to provide customers with a highly personalized, engaging and informative experience.

Moving to a New Headquarters

One of my favorite sayings is ‘dream without limits.’  I’m excited about our new Murad office building, because it truly is the realization of a dream.  We set about to design a workplace that helps everyone at the company enjoy a happier, healthier and more rewarding lifestyle – and we didn’t compromise. The end result is a warm, beautiful place that I think truly captures the spirit of our company.  There’s also a natural flow to the design that helps let everyone know they are a part of something special.

These are just a few highlights from what has been a very special year.  I hope you are all able to reflect back on some of your favorite moments from the past 12 months as well, and share them with us in the comments section below.

Article by Howard Murad, M.D., FAAD, a world renowned skincare expert and founder of the Inclusive Health movement. Click here to learn more about Dr. Murad.

Celebrate Tranquility This Holiday Season

We all know the holidays can be hectic, so today we’re celebrating tranquility. Our goal is to help you stay calm and looking and feeling good through the New Year. Remember, “me time” is important all year long, but it’s especially beneficial when life gets stressful. From finding your inner Zen to harnessing the power of aromatherapy, here we offer you some inspiring tips.

Meditate

Do you have 5 minutes? That’s all it takes for a refreshing boost of tranquility. The practice of quieting your mind and focusing on your breath is not just for the enlightened. Check out our post on how to meditate in 5 easy steps.

Being Mindful

This may sound difficult during such a busy time of year, but practicing mindfulness actually reduces stress and helps you more fully enjoy the present moment. Our post on mindfulness offers 7 easy ideas that you can implement right now to infuse mindfulness into your holiday season.

Yoga

Why wait until January to start a new fitness routine? Try a few yoga poses and notice how much better you feel. No equipment is required, and you can do it in your living room! This post explains the different types of yoga styles and the benefits of each one.

Get a Massage or Facial

This is the ultimate example of “me time,” and it can be the best present you give yourself this season. The health benefits of massages and facials go beyond what you experience just on the outside.

Youth Builder Bodycare Preview Kit – $18

Explore New Aromatherapeutic Benefits

For an “at-home” spa experience, harness the power of aromatherapy with our new Youth Builder® bodycare products. These high-performance, yet luxurious, body treatments encourage a relaxing, spa-like experience while addressing body-aging concerns. Youth Builder’s unique, transformative formulas awaken the spirit with the fragrant aromas of Lemongrass Vetiver and Bergamot.

Just in time for the holidays, Murad is now offering the Youth Builder Bodycare Preview Kit ($18) – perfect for stocking stuffers! The kit includes Detoxifying White Clay Body Cleanser and Rejuvenating AHA Hand Cream. The Youth Builder Bodycare Preview Kit is available now at Murad.com, the Murad Flagship Store, the Murad Inclusive Health Spa and Massage Envy Spa. The entire Youth Builder bodycare line will be available at select retailers nationwide beginning April 2015.

So what are you doing to celebrate tranquility this month? We want to hear from you! Share with us on social how you are keeping calm during the holidays with a picture using the hashtag #CelebrateMurad, and you could be featured on Murad.com.

Celebrate Balance for a Stress-Free Holiday

During the holidays, there are a lot of demands on our time. As the song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but it can also be the most stressful time of the year. We invite you to join us in embracing and celebrating balance this holiday season—a healthy balance between work and life, and between family time and “me time.”

Balanced Life Tips

So, how do we get all the shopping, decorating and cooking done—and look fabulous for those holiday parties—while still taking care of our daily responsibilities? We find that simply identifying priorities and staying organized is key to maximizing your time and minimizing your stress.

Create Lists

Make grocery lists, gifts lists and—for those who are traveling—packing lists. This will save you a lot of time.

Plan Ahead

Get an early start on planning for the party you’re hosting or the trip you’re taking. Leaving everything to the last minute is a recipe for holiday stress.

Be Grateful

Take a step back and be grateful for all of the wonderful things in your life instead of focusing on everything you still have to get done.

For more great tips on a healthy work-life balance—especially for working parents—check out this blog post from Murad employee (and working mom) Jill Neil.

Balanced Body Tips

During the holiday rush, sometimes the first thing to go is healthy eating habits. Next on the list may be working out. Don’t get caught in this trap! You’ll regret it come January.

Watch Portions

Allow yourself to indulge in your favorite holiday dishes, but stick to small portions. Eat plenty of water-rich fruits and veggies prior to a holiday meal to avoid overeating.

Go for Family Walks After Holiday Meals

It will help with digestion, reduce stress and give you a fun activity to do with your family.

Don’t Ditch Your Workouts

You may have to cut them shorter or attend fewer classes temporarily, but you need your workouts, especially during the holiday season.

Treat Yourself

Enjoy a massage, a hot bath, a good book, or whatever “me time” activity you can squeeze in. Also remember to breathe, meditate if you can, and get plenty of rest.

Balanced Complexion Tips

You know what happens to your complexion when you get stressed: breakouts, fine lines and overproduction of oil. Even oily skin requires moisture, which is why it’s important to find a proper moisture balance—not only to prevent lines and wrinkles, but also to prevent breakouts.

Here is a product recommendation for a balanced complexion:

Murad Balancing Moisturizer

Lightweight moisturizer balances oil production and delivers powerful antioxidant protection
Incorporates the Murad Recipe, which balances antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and hydrators
A great gift under $50 for any skin type, or for that person just starting out with high-performance skincare

So what are you doing to celebrate balance this month? We want to hear from you! Share with us on social how you are staying balanced during the holidays with a picture using the hashtag #CelebrateMurad, and you could be featured on Murad.com.

Murad Employees: How We Live Young

Dr. Murad encourages us to get in touch with our inner toddler to “live young” to fight what he calls Cultural Stress®. This constant and pervasive stress of everyday life is the enemy of health because it leads to a cascade of cell-damaging free radicals. Dr. Murad discovered that reducing Cultural Stress could be the most effective strategy in achieving overall wellness, which is reflected in healthy, beautiful skin.

We know that’s great advice so we asked our employees what keeps them young. Here’s what they had to say:

“Sunrise yoga at Red Rocks Amphitheatre or any outdoor venue is what keeps me young.”

Thomas Smith

International

“I stay young by letting my inner child out whatever chance I get!”

Jessi Baer

Creative

“I stay young by traveling the world and being silly everywhere I go. This is a photo of me and one of my best friends having fun at the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, on a trip of a lifetime that I’ll never forget and always cherish.”

Carina Zaragoza

eCommerce

“I stay youthful by singing and dancing wherever I can. Life is just one big musical!

My tips to living young are:

Dance.
Jazz hands.
Kick ball change.”

Dorothy Chung

Creative

“Laughing too loud, being silly, dancing wherever/whenever and enjoying life keeps me young. These are all things that my closest girlfriends bring out in me; therefore, they truly bring out the youngest version of me.”

Monique Flores

eCommerce

“Following my passions and participating in hobbies that make me happiest (like acting in plays) are a huge part of how I stay young.”

Mary Waldron

Creative

“Baby-sitting and playing dress-up with my niece keeps me young!”

Erin Bitar

eCommerce

These are all great examples for how to embrace your inner child and fight Cultural Stress so that you can look, live and feel better every day.

How do you live young? Share with us on social how you live young by posting a picture and using the hashtag #CelebrateMurad, and you could be featured on Murad.com.

Adventures in Product Development: Blackheads Explained

By Jeff Murad, VP of Product Development

I am often asked if I have any unusual or amusing adventures developing new formulas. To me and my team they are all interesting – prompting us to discover new perspectives and use creativity to find solutions to seemingly insurmountable challenges. It is sometimes frustrating, but in the end, always rewarding and educational. While few product development stories make good cocktail party anecdotes, the story of the creation of the Blackhead and Pore Refining Duo in Murad’s Pore Reform line is an exception to that rule.

Background

Before I go into the story it may help to give a brief background on blackheads. Like whiteheads, blackheads are a type of acne lesion. The main difference is blackheads are not covered by a layer of skin as whiteheads are – hence the term open comedone. In the absence of this layer of skin, the sebum (the natural oils produced by our skin) within a blackhead-affected pore is exposed to the air around you, causing the sebum to oxidize; oxidized sebum turns dark brown or black – hence blackheads’ unique appearance.

Step 1

The methods of removing blackheads are well known (I am sure you have all tried several), so developing the first step in the duo, the Blackhead Remover cleanser/mask was relatively straightforward. The unique makeup of blackheads, however, makes any removal method short-lived since as soon as a plug is removed from a pore the sebum being produced underneath becomes exposed.  That exposed sebum quickly oxidizes and the never-ending blackhead cycle continues. While I didn’t know how we would solve this problem, I never doubted that the New Product Development team at Murad was up to the challenge.

Step 2

A second step was obviously needed to interrupt this cycle and it would likely involve antioxidantsthat inhibit sebum oxidation. The big question was which antioxidants? The variety of antioxidants on the planet is virtually limitless, each with unique strengths. Some, such as Vitamin E, function best in fatty tissues, primarily combating lipid peroxidation, while the unique polyphenol antioxidants found in grape seed extract seems best suited to inhibit oxidative damage of the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers.

Before embarking on a trial to evaluate a formula’s performance on a panel of people it is best to have significant confidence of its efficacy.  We develop that confidence through past performance history with, or extensive research on, the ingredients used in the formula. But in the case of our search for a blackhead inhibiting antioxidant, we had countless options and no experience or data that would give us a clue as to which antioxidant would be the best choice to inhibit oxidation of human sebum. Narrowing down our antioxidants options to test seemed an overwhelming task.

The solution

We purchased about 2 kilograms of human sebum from a biomedical research company (yes, there are actually companies that do this). We then broke it down into equal segments and added a measured dose to each of four dozen or so separate test tubes. We then added a sample of a different antioxidant (pomegranate, Vitamins A, C, E, Acai, Green Tea etc.) to each, left them exposed to the air, and closely monitored them for a few days to see which, if any, of the antioxidants prevented oxidation –and to what degree. We also kept one sebum-filled test tube sealed and did not add anything to it as a positive control – a sample of healthy, unoxidized sebum to compare our results against. After a few days, almost all of the sebum in the experimental test tubes had darkened to some degree, with two exceptions: a coconut derived compound and a pseudopeptide form of carnosine, an endogenous antioxidant naturally created within the human body’s fatty tissues.

The Discovery

Feeling confident that we had found two ingredients whose primary antioxidant activity worked on preventing sebum oxidation, we decided to take the test one step further. We added a combination of the two winners to a sample of sebum that had already oxidized. To our surprise and excitement, the brown, oxidized sebum gradually became white again. Not only did these powerful antioxidants prevent sebum oxidation in our laboratory experiment, but they actually reversed it as well. By infusing the 2 ingredients into a delivery system that creates an antioxidant-rich reservoir within pores, we found this benefit also translates to the sebum on people’s skin.

This discovery lead us to the first ever treatment that not only clears your pores of blackheads (with the always fantastic Blackhead Remover mask+scrub in one), but also keeps them clear.  When used after clearing your pores with the Blackhead Remover, our Pore Refining Sealer creates a barrier between the oxygen in the air and the fresh sebum within your pores, preventing new blackheads from forming.

Celebrating Everyday Heroes

Today we are celebrating the heroes in our lives. Ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things. From life changers to role models to survivors, these heroes from our Murad family inspire us with their examples.

Life Changer Heroes

Dr. Howard Murad

“My greatest passion, and the primary reason I founded Murad Skincare, is to help people unlock their potential to look younger, to feel younger and to live healthier, happier and more rewarding lives.”

Dr. Murad is known as the “Father of Internal Skincare” and is the founder of the Inclusive Health® movement, which focuses on a total-body approach to youth building and overall wellness. He’s the author of five bestselling books on aging, health and skincare. This year, he published a series of insightful gift books, including Why Have a Bad Day When You Can Have a Good Day.

Dr. Laura Kruper, Co-director of City of Hope’s Breast Cancer Program

“There were so many influences that drove me to be a breast cancer surgeon. My mother was an oncology nurse. When I was a young teenager and would meet her at the hospital after school, she would introduce me to some of her patients. Breast cancer impacts many people, not only the patient. To me, there was something very gratifying in being able to help and cure people through surgery. What I love best about being a doctor is the interaction with the patients.”

Role Model Heroes

Julie Benz, Actress

“Staying fit and working out are really important to me. Working out clears my mind and levels my stress. I have to work out every day, whether it’s Pilates for strength training or spinning for cardio, it’s part of my lifestyle. Also, I try to eat as healthy as possible (but I do cheat once in a while). Just like Dr. Murad’s Pitcher of Health 80/20 rule; my 20% is pure desserts, just not every day. It’s very important to me to eat foods with high nutritional value, while staying away from processed food. It really makes a difference.”

Michelle R., Murad Brand Ambassador

“I love making people happy, and I especially love helping other people feel good about themselves, even if it’s saying ‘You’re so pretty’ to a random stranger.”

Robin Givens, Actress & Author

“I love being a mom. You get to see the world all over again through these brand new eyes that are so gung-ho about life. Your parents start raising you and your children finish the job. My children teach me patience and compassion. They really know how to work that love muscle. Nothing’s made me happier in my life than being a mom.”

R’Chelle Mullins, Murad Brand Ambassador

“My biggest success has been starting my own business. It was so scary to walk away from the security of a 9-to-5 job with a steady paycheck, but there has been nothing more rewarding than being my own boss.”

Survivor Heroes

Joan Lunden, TV Personality & Author

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Joan has become a very public and passionate spokeswoman for breast cancer awareness. She is using her brave struggle to inspire others.

In October, she appeared bald on the front of People magazine to send a powerful message. “I will beat this,” Joan declared. “I could decide to do nothing, but that’s certainly not my personality. I was handed an opportunity to learn everything that I can about this and try to help others.”

Melina Fregoso, Breast Cancer Survivor

“Surviving cancer has made me stronger all around. I don’t complain about nearly anything anymore. Bumps in the road are just that: bumps in the road. I don’t make them look bigger. I know in life I will have many problems, issues and conflicts, but I learned it’s up to me whether I give them priority in my life or not.”

We are grateful to be surrounded by these everyday heroes. Who are the heroes in your life?

5 Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Season

By Jill Neil, Working Parent Extraordinaire

As a kid, the holidays were always my favorite time of the year. Festive parties and family gatherings. Crackling fires and twinkling lights. Singing and baking and wrapping and giving and shaking every gift under the tree.

Now, as a mom, I get to experience the magic of the season through my children’s eyes. I love giving gifts, hosting parties, decorating the house and creating our own family traditions. But along with the joy of the season, usually comes an added amount of stress. Fortunately, a lot of this stress can be avoided by simplifying, prioritizing and planning ahead. Here are my tips for a stress-free holiday season:

Set your holiday budget early.

Finances are an even bigger stressor this time of year. Gifts are an obvious expense, but don’t forget other things that add up as well, such as décor, food/drinks for parties you’re hosting or attending, holiday attire, travel expenses, holiday cards, postage and gift wrapping supplies. Additionally, when making your gift list don’t forget friends, co-workers, teachers, babysitters, housekeepers, charitable gifts/donations, hostess gifts, birthdays this time of year and more. Decide how much you are able to spend in total and divide it amongst all the expenses on your list. Then stick to your budget and you will feel better about your purchases when you know they are within your means.
Maintain gift lists year round.

I have 2 gift lists I constantly maintain: gifts we want to give and gifts we want to receive. That way, when I’m out shopping or family members ask, I am ready with specifics. I keep these lists in the notepad on my phone so I can quickly add any suggestions or ideas that arise. My 4 year old is aware of this list as well, and anytime he sees a new toy he wants, he asks me to add it to his list. This way I don’t have to say “no” on the spot and deal with a pouty kid. Creating lists in advance also makes it easier to start your holiday shopping and wrapping early.
Create a calendar and don’t overbook.

Schedule the most important things first, like family celebrations, travel dates, school vacations, holiday programs, etc. Next, pencil in holiday parties and events happening in your community – but don’t commit to anything too soon. Then consider family traditions you want to make sure happen and schedule time for those as well. Finally go back and decide which activities you really want to participate in, being mindful of time to shop, wrap presents and address holiday cards. Remember, the best part of the season is enjoying it. Make sure your schedule allows for that.
If you’re hosting a holiday soiree, start planning early.

Make a list of everything you plan to buy, cook, clean, decorate and wear. Schedule time to work on each of these things starting weeks in advance and create a schedule for the day of the event. Nothing is worse than the stress of guests arriving before you’re ready for them. Plan each detail accordingly, including time to turn on music and get yourself ready, so you can be enjoying a glass of wine as guests arrive.
Keep it simple.

As much as I’d like all of my holiday efforts to be Pinterest-worthy, I’m selective and realistic about what I actually take on. Last year, my kids decorated sugar cone trees instead of gingerbread houses. Our Elf on the Shelf moved from shelf to stocking to tree – no elaborate shenanigans for him. I stopped by the bakery for cronuts on the way to my annual ladies brunch instead of baking a quiche. Simplifying the things I’m not as passionate about reduces the added the stress these activities can trigger and creates more time for me to enjoy the moment.

Of course each of us encounters our own personal stressors this time of year, but the key is to anticipate as many of those as we can and create a plan to lessen or avoid them altogether. That way, the time we spend celebrating and connecting this season will not only be more meaningful to those around us, but also more beneficial to our own self care. And help us enjoy the holidays like a kid again.

Murad Employees: Our Favorite Family Memories

The holiday season is the time of year when we spend time with our loved ones and create new memories. Fondly recalling past memories is also part of the fun. We asked our fellow Murad employees to share some of their favorite family memories. Here’s what they said:

“Playing jacks on the kitchen floor with my grandmother when she was 65 years old and I was 25.”

Camy Brullo

Distribution Center

“When I was about 6 years old, we were touring England. After walking all over London for a day, we got back to the hotel, and my father gave me, my mom and my two sisters foot rubs!”

Carly Portalupi

Direct Response

“Every Thanksgiving creates the best family memories!”

Soli Afshari

Direct Response

“Thanksgiving dinners as a kid, about 20 people. There was always someone who overindulged in alcohol and someone always fell.”

Stephanie Gornik

Education

“Driving around town with my dad and sisters on Easter Sunday, hitting up every Easter egg hunt in a 20-mile radius!”

Vellany Von Slomski

Murad Flagship Store

“My grandpa and I had a combined birthday party a few years ago. It was my 30th birthday and his 90th! I let him have the spotlight to himself this year for his 95th…he certainly deserved it!”

Cara Yankauskas

Murad Inclusive Health Spa

“Summer vacations to the beaches of Mazandaran Sea in Iran.”

Kathy Akvan

IT

“Road tripping and singing in the car (Beatles with dad, Disney with mom).”

Amy Turman

Social Media

What’s your favorite family memory? Share with us on social how you celebrate the holidays by posting a family picture and using the hashtag #CelebrateMurad, and you could be featured on Murad.com.

Enjoy Good Times—And Look Great While You’re At It

With Thanksgiving behind us and the New Year just ahead, December is a busy month. We’ve got presents to buy, menus to plan and lots of reasons to get dressed up. Office parties, family gatherings and fancy holiday celebrations await. So you pick out the perfect outfit, and we’ll give you some tips to keep your skin looking its best this season.

Our Top Skincare Products to Help You Get Glowing Skin for Your Holiday Celebrations

Intensive-C® Radiance Peel – The night before a big party, apply this peel and leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse and hydrate. This easy treatment will help you achieve a glowing, gorgeous complexion.

Renewing Eye Cream – If you’re up late running errands or preparing for your celebration, you don’t want to look tired and worn out. Use our bestselling Renewing Eye Cream to fight dark circles, puffiness and crow’s feet.

Rapid Collagen Infusion – This fast-acting, anti-aging treatment fights wrinkles and loss of resilience by promoting healthy collagen and hydration levels. It immediately restores a more youthful appearance. Apply generously to the face and neck to address fine lines and wrinkles. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in 2 hours (based on a Murad-sponsored study).

Sheer Lustre Day Moisture SPF 15 – This moisturizer instantly hydrates dry skin to give you a fresh holiday glow. It contains luminescent minerals that leave the complexion naturally radiant, even without makeup.

Rejuvenating AHA Hand Cream - Since you may be meeting new people and shaking a lot of hands this holiday season, make sure your hands look and feel youthful with Rejuvenating AHA Hand Cream. Plus the aromatherapeutic benefits of Bergamot in this product will help keep you calm and collected. Carry it in your purse for reapplication.

We all know that many holiday parties include too much food and plentiful adult beverages. Have fun tasting the delicious holiday offerings, just remember to keep it in moderation. Make healthy choices when you can, and remember to “eat your water.”

Whatever you choose to fill your glass with — “cheers” to you! Remember, if you’re going to enjoy holiday spirits, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Plus, don’t skimp on sleep and stay in the moment for the best experience.

Happy holidays, everyone, and here’s to celebrating in style. We hope our tips help you look, live and feel #BetterEveryDay during the holidays AND all year long.

For more great advice, check out Dr. Murad’s blog post for ways social relationships help you destress.

Celebrate Deliciousness

Delicious food is always part of any holiday celebration. We wait all year long to devour special dishes that we only get to enjoy this time of year. And the best thing about food is it that brings families together. We hope you will find inspiration for your next holiday celebration with these healthy and delicious recipes from Murad fans Joan Lunden and Julie Benz. Bon appétit!

Joan Lunden’s Creamy Carrot Soup

In Joan’s words: “The holidays are a great time to be with your family, and when it’s cold outside, staying cozy inside with a warm bowl of comforting soup really brings everyone together. A soup that I enjoy making is my Creamy Carrot Soup, from my book Joan Lunden’s Healthy Cooking. All the ingredients in this favorite family soup of mine are healthy and delicious!”

Ingredients:

1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 or 2 garlic gloves, minced (about 1 to 2 teaspoons)
2 teaspoons of vegetable oil or unsalted butter
3 cups chicken broth or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth
6 carrots, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon tomato paste or 1/4 cup V8 juice
4 drops of hot sauce
1/4 cup nonfat plain yogurt
1 to 2 cups water, or as needed
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh dill and lemon slices for garnish, optional

Directions:

In a saucepan, cook the onion and the garlic in the oil over moderately low heat for 5 minutes or until the onions are softened. Add the broth, carrots, and thyme; bring to a boil; and simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.

Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor, in batches, and puree until smooth. Add remaining ingredients, salt and pepper to taste, and enough water to achieve the desired consistency, and blend the mixture.

Serve hot or chilled. Garnish each portion with the dill and lemon slices, if desired.

Joan notes, “Lately I’ve been following a no wheat, no dairy, no sugar eating plan and just in case some of you may be trying the same (and if you’re trying the Paleo eating program, that’s you) you can use coconut milk in place of yogurt.”

Julie Benz’s Baked Sweet Potatoes (or Candied Yams)

Julie notes, “I only make it once a year, pure indulgence! There’s nothing healthy about this recipe.”

Ingredients:

Sweet Potato Mixture:

3 cups of yams
1 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
2 eggs
1/3 cup melted butter
½ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla
Cinnamon and nutmeg

Crunchy topping:

1 cup brown sugar,
1/3 cup flour
1 cup chopped pecans
1/3 stick melted butter

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients except for the topping in an oven-safe dish and cook until bubbling.

While the sweet potato mixture is in the oven, mix the crunchy topping ingredients in a separate bowl.

Once the sweet potato mixture is bubbling to perfection, layer on the crunchy topping and put it back into the oven to bake until it’s golden brown and crunchy.

For more great holiday recipe ideas, check out Dr. Murad’s favorite Thanksgiving recipe. Share how you Celebrate Deliciousness on social media with a photo of your favorite recipe and use the hashtag #CelebrateMurad. We might feature your image on Murad.com!