SPICES FOR PHYTONUTRIENTS
Vanilla beans are high in phenolic compounds which are potent antioxidants (as well as anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory). Most people often use vanilla extracts rather than the bean because it is easy to find and affordable. But if you are side stepping using real vanilla beans, you are missing out on some awesome antioxidants.
Extracts are made from infusing the bean in alcohol for an extended period of time. The process of infusion does not allow antioxidants to seep into the alcohol extract so you are losing out on a lot of phytonutrients when you skip using the actual vanilla bean.
Vanilla was traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, and is also reputed to help patients with erectile dysfunction and loss of libido. Because of its calming properties, it helps lower anxiety and reduce inflammation due to fever. Vanilla beans high antioxidant value is also effective at fighting off the free radicals that can lead to cancer.
Benefits to the Skin
The benefits of vanilla in skin care products go far beyond the amazing scent. It is also great for:
Healing wounds: Historically vanilla was used to help heal wounds, and we now know that it has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to soothe and calm inflamed areas on the skin.
Antioxidant: As you can see on the chart above, vanilla is a great source of antioxidants. A 2007 study that profiled the extract found that the antioxidants were significant, stating, “The present study points toward the potential use of vanilla extract compounds as antioxidants for food preservation and in health supplements as nutraceuticals.” These antioxidants can also help protect skin from environmental dangers that can accelerate aging.
Acne and Antibacterial: Vanilla can help reduce skin infections and can reduce the bacteria that cause acne.
B vitamins: There are a lot of b-vitamins in vanilla, including niacin, which is a key nutrient in the maintenance of healthy skin. Thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B6, and pantothenic acid are also found in this tasty extract.
I keep a large pack in my fridge sealed tightly at all times for additions to desserts and even vegetables like my Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Vanilla-Pecan Butter.
Click HERE to find some on sale!
FLOATING ISLANDS
Floating Islands
Ingredients
- 4 cups unsweetened macadamia nut milk divided (or low-fat coconut milk for nut free)
- 1 whole vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 large eggs
- 2/3 cup Natural Sweetener
- 1/4 teaspoon Redmond Real salt
Instructions
- Make the custard: In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 2 cups of the macadamia milk to a boil and remove from the heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the egg yolks with ¹⁄3 cup of the natural sweetener and the salt until thick and pale yellow in color.
- Pour the macadamia milk mixture very slowly into the sweetened egg yolks while beating them continuously.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and gently cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it forms a custard thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, 15 to 20 minutes. (If you do this step too quickly or over higher heat, the eggs will scramble.)
- Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a shallow serving dish. Add the vanilla. Taste and adjust sweetness to your liking. Set aside. If you are making extra, refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to use. Can be served warm or chilled.
- Make the “islands”: Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then very slowly add the remaining ¹⁄3 cup of erythritol while beating.
- Place the remaining 2 cups of macadamia milk in a sauté pan or other large, shallow pan and bring to a low simmer.
- Using a large slotted spoon, form 2-by-3-inch egg shapes out of the whites and poach them in the almond milk for 30 seconds on each side. You should end up with 16 “islands.” Do not overcook. Put the islands on a clean towel to drain.
- Assemble: Divide the custard among 4 small serving bowls. Carefully arrange the islands in the custard. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Does Glucosamine take you out of Ketosis???
“I have to tell on myself. I’ve been doing a low carb, medium protein, good day diet since January and have lost 30 pounds. I have arthritis and without even thinking went back on glucosamine chondroitin and my weight loss stopped. It took me 3 weeks to make the connection…duh! GLUCOSEamine!” – Debby
Try my Chronic Pain supplement suggestions instead.
Click HERE to get started on your path to healing!
