Avoiding the Holi-daze

Before I dive into our main topic, I want to highlight something I find truly ridiculous: the “Beefless ground beef” I saw on a Trader Joe’s shelf. If someone wants to eat plants infused with toxic seed oils and preservatives, that’s their call, but let’s call it what it is, and that ain’t beef! I also am not personally shopping for cheese-less cheese, grape-less wine nor olive-less olive oil. What is it with humans?!! Why do we take what Nature perfectly made, muck with it, and listen to those who claim it’s healthier?

Another mini rant I discuss in this episode: the new USDA dietary guidelines (ahem, conflict of interest ridden same ole hot mess) set to come out in 2025. Nutrition Coalition’s Dr. Nina Teicholz is one of my heroes for highlighting these conflicts of interest and lobbying to get better people (who aren’t owned by Big Food) onto this committee. Their “work” drives what’s available in anything our massively obese government touches — for example, schools, hospitals, food benefits, prisons, etc.

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Alright! Let’s get down to biznass: avoiding the holi-daze and cultivating a nourishing, meaningful season. This starts with mindset, y’all! Ask yourself what is most important to you, how you’d like to spend your precious time. I guarantee that you’ll feel a lot better come January if you set some parameters as for how you will spend your time, money and of course nourish yourself.

We discuss that Big Food is happy to offer you even more conveniences which will cost you more AND inevitably contain toxic seed and vegetable oils. While it might take 10 more minutes to wash and cut veggies and make your own quick dip — two dip recipes coming in November (!), you’ll save money and have a healthier veggie platter, for example.

I recommend four main tips for nourishing yourself while enjoying the holidays: 1) nourish thyself with sleep, hydration, quiet time each day and of course nutrients; 2) establish a game plan for your non-negotiables such as sleeping 7 hours per night, moving 3-5 days per week (even if it’s shorter than your traditional routine), a five minute calming practice when stress appears; 3) come up with some quick go-to menus for those busier nights (eggs ‘n bacon, anyone); and 4) remember, it’s ok to say NO or make a quick appearance at an event and then retreat.

Successful entrepreneurs understand that their businesses can’t “run” them. It’s the same with the holidays — don’t let this time of year run you. Think about what’s important and honor what is best for YOU. This will help you glide into the New Year nourished, energized and ready for what 2025 will bring. (Versus financially, mentally and physically hungover.)

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-FINE READS-
Last month I mentioned how RFK Jr. has boldly brought attention to our nation’s crippled metabolic health. Thankfully, the conversation continues and with an unlikely duo — a brother-sister team with extensive experience in the trenches: Calley and Dr. Casey Means. I’ve recently enjoyed some truly enlightening podcasts featuring these two passionate people, who offer an impressively informed perspective on the root causes and solutions. You can hear them on Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson. (I realize these gents might not be in your political camp — I’m an independent, but their message transcends politics and I applaud them for highlighting our nation’s most pressing problem.)

I am looking very forward to reading Good Energy! And although I’d rather get my hands on it sooner rather than later, I’m thrilled to see that there are 37 holds placed on the 16 copies in my local library system. The more people who read their message and adopt a lifestyle promoting real whole foods, the healthier our society will become.

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-FINE “RECIPE”- Dixie’s Redneck Risotto

Admittedly this is not a low-carb recipe. For those who don’t like Aborio rice or its carb load, I recommend substituting cauliflower rice, which will cook more quickly. Chez Huey, it’s an occasional treat — usually on a lazy Sunday or two once a month, and something I love preparing with my son as it necessitates slowing down and fuels conversation. Plus, it’s not fussy; you just simply add broth over time and stir until it is the texture you like.

INGREDIENTS
1 cup Aborio rice
2-3 cups bone broth (you may substitute 1 cup with 1 cup of lighter, more acidic white wine)
1 finely chopped onion
1 finely chopped leak (optional; I love ‘em)
Any other finely chopped veggies that need to be eaten stat (such as the green beans pictured)
1 package of organic hot dogs (organ meat!)
1-2 finely chopped garlic cloves (feel free to use the fermented garlic from the last post)
2 TB butter
2 TB olive oil
Generous hunk of Parmesan to grate
Pinch of saffron (this kinda defeats the redneck aspect but it sure is purty)

1. Turn generous pan on medium-high heat and melt butter.

2. Add the rice, onions, leaks and any other veggies you’d like then stir.

3. Once the rice starts to crisp up, begin adding bone broth by about 1/3 to 1/2 cup and keep on stirrin’.

4. Turn down the heat to a lower setting and add the hot dog pieces and garlic. Continue for the next 10 plus minutes to top with the broth as needed, and if you’re using wine, go ahead and start alternating wine with broth.

5. Add a couple of pinches of salt and stir. Now is a good time to taste for desired saltiness and rice texture.

6. Continue adding liquid and stirring until the texture is just right for you. Once done, stir in the saffron if you’re adding it ,and remove from heat.

7. Generously grate Parmesan until your heart is content, then drizzle with olive oil and salt to taste, then serve and nourish!

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-FINE FINDS-
I was recently shopping in Sprouts and a super cute tea brand caught my eye: Budda Teas. I bought the chamomile CBD tea and absolutely love the subtle aroma and taste. I was also stunned by how well I slept. (Normally I’m up once per evening to visit the loo, and not only did I skip that routine, I overslept!) To be clear, I cite “user error” in not setting my alarm clock correctly.

As the holidays approach, please consider my book, The Nourishment Mindset, for those on your list. I enjoyed signing and personalizing gifts last holiday season and am also happy to include a card. You can buy it on Amazon or my website for a signed copy shipped free of charge.

If you’re a sweetheart and have already purchased, please consider spreading the love by recommending it to a friend and/or writing me a review on Amazon or your preferred podcast platform! More important than supporting my work, you’re spreading our metabolic mission to help people achieve vitality through real whole foods, straight talk and the pleasures of the table!