Wholesome Living

Is there a diet that is healthy both for the people and for the environment? Until now, the Mediterranean Diet has been considered the best diet to live a healthy life.  The Mediterranean diet is based on whole foods such as fresh vegetables, fresh or dried fruits, whole grains and seeds and allows a small intake of fish and dairy occasionally. Doctors and nutritionists claimed this was the perfect diet for longevity.  However, in recent years scientists looked more carefully at a plant-based diet as the ultimate diet for humans.  According to a new study published in the journal  Future Foods,  it's the  completely plant-based diet that is more beneficial. It is not only best for human health but also for the health of our planet, which is currently suffering from global warming.  Scientists looked through 40 studies that examined the human health impact and the environmental impact of plant-based diets. Plant-based diets offer better nutrition They concluded that vegan diets have better alimentary profiles than those based on animal products. The researchers also confirmed that meat-free and dairy-free diets help people improve their health and help to lose weigh in a healthy way. The researchers wrote in the statement:  "There are increasingly strong reasons to move away from industrial animal agriculture for the good of the environment, animals, our personal health, and public health." "Plant-based animal product alternatives represent a highly feasible way to reduce ani...

There are many reasons why you should choose organic wholefood products. Organic means it's better for you and better for the environment. Popcorn is one of these products which you should always buy organic.  What is popcorn?  Corn is a versatile starchy vegetable which comes as kernels on a cob inside a husk. Dried seeds become whole grain; when ground, it becomes flour commonly used in American cuisine for tortillas, tacos, nachos and other dishes. Popped corn is everyone's favourite snack for parties and long evenings watching films.  There's only one type of corn that will make popcorn. This particular variety is the only one that has the ability to pop and turn into a healthy snack. Why does corn pops? Dried corn grains have a hard yellow shell and a starchy centre with a little bit of water inside. When you place corn kernel in a hot pan, the water inside starts cooking and creates a lot of steam, building a lot of pressure. After a couple of minutes, the shell explodes, and the starch comes out, creating a crunchy yet soft snack.  Why you should always buy organic popcorn By buying organic popcorn , you can avoid pesticides and GMOs. Corn is one of the whole grains which is often genetically engineered. Engineers change corn's DNA to make it more resistant to lack of watering or insects. Although there's no evidence that genetically modified crops may cause any risk to...

What is black salt? Black salt is also known as Kala Namak or Himalayan black salt . It is very popular in Asian and Indian cuisine. It  usually comes from the salt mines of India, Nepal, Pakistan and Bangladesh. It has volcanic origins and is made up of sulphur compounds which contribute to its smell and taste. It is also made up of iron and potassium chloride.  Ayurveda considers black salt as a cooling spice. Black salt was first used in Ayurvedic medicine for its holistic, therapeutic properties. It is filled with minerals that are insoluble, making them harder to be absorbed by the body.  Today, black salt is commonly used in cooking and is a popular ingredient in Indian and Asian-inspired recipes.    Is black salt healthy? According to Ayurvedic medicine black salt has  holistic and therapeutic properties. Drinking water with a bit of black salt on an empty stomach in the morning helps to remove toxins from the body. Black salt works like an antioxidant and contains essential minerals like calcium, magnesium and iron. Adding it to your dishes may improve digestion by increasing the bile production in the liver. It also has laxative properties, so it helps with constipation. People with diabetes may use black salt to help maintain sugar levels in the body. Using black salt wit...

Cashews are versatile and very nutritious nuts packed with protein, fibre and minerals. They are an excellent source of magnesium, copper, and essential amino acids. Cashews nuts are very easy to incorporate to your diet. What does cashew taste like?  Cashews's flavour is similar to almonds and other nuts but they are sweeter and their nutty flavour is more delicate. With their  buttery and creamy taste, they can become everyone's favourite nut.  Cashews can pair well with all kinds of sweet and savoury dishes.  How to use cashews?  Cashews are less crunchy than almonds or peanuts but they probably are more versatile. As healthy snack Whole or ground organic cashews are a great snack on the go. You can eat cashew raw or roasted. You can easily find them in the shops and buy organic cashews online. If you want something more indulgent, go for cashew coated with honey, dark chocolate, or with herbs and spices seasoning.  To make dairy-free milk If you have a food processor at home, you can easily make your own plant-based milk at home. Organic cashews would be perfect for that.  Just soak the cashew in water for a couple of hours, then remove the water. Place it in a food processor, adding 1 litre of water and a pinch of salt and blend until it's creamy and smooth. Voila! You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days and use it for coffee and cereals in the morning.  To make cashew butter  Both roasted and raw organic cashews make excellent nut butter! You can eas...

If you are following a plant-based diet and you love cheese, then you probably know it. If not, then you've probably seen it in the supermarkets as it has become quite popular in recent years.  Nooch, aka nutritional yeast, is a supplement that adds some cheesy flavour to your dishes. It actually goes well with a wide range of foods, from salads and sandwiches to sauces and soups.  For those who love cheese but for some reason cannot eat it, nooch is a dream come true product and a staple for which they will always find a place in the pantry. Additionally, it offers some health benefits.  Why not try it? What is nutritional yeast? Nutritional yeast is a type of deactivated yeast. It is a byproduct of beer making. It is grown on a sugary medium such as molasses and then harvested. Later, it goes through pasteurisation (deactivating yeast) and gets dried.  The resulting product is yellow flakes with a cheesy flavour that you can use for many dishes, especially for vegan recipes (when you cannot use cheese).  Nutritional benefits of mooch Nutritional yeast naturally contains protein, fibre and fat, and B vitamins: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, plus iron, potassium and chromium. Usually, the nutritional yeast available online is fortified with vitamins, such as B12 (perfect for those on plant-based and vegan diets), and it has much higher nutritional value. Only fortified Nooch will contain b12, niacin (vitamin B3), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), riboflavin (vitamin B2), thiamin hydrochloride (vitamin B1), ...

Who doesn’t want to be healthier and to live longer?   Evidence shows that the best way to maximise your probability of living a long and active life is to exercise regularly, get enough sleep, stay away from bad habits and of course, eat well. To help increase our longevity and health, it’s imperative to fuel our bodies with hearty, nutrient-dense foods. Natural plant foods can aid in strengthening our well-being and vitality.   However, there are some specific foods that if added to your diet regularly, may increase your chances of longevity and boost your health even further. Keep reading to find out more!   Nuts   Nuts are an amazing nutrient source full of healthy fats, plant protein, fibre, antioxidants, and minerals. They’re also a low-glycaemic food group, which helps keep your blood sugar balanced.   In particular, almonds are high in vitamin E and magnesium, Brazil nuts are high in selenium, and walnuts are a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid. In fact,  this study  discovered that eating 5 or more servings of walnuts per week was linked with a 14% lower risk of death from any cause, a 25% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases, and an increase of approx.. 1.3 years of life expectancy.   Berries   Raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries all contain antioxidants called polyphenols, which have been found to decrease inflammation throughout the body. These antioxidant-rich fruits are very heart-healthy.   Studies have displayed that consuming blueberries or strawberries daily for several weeks showed improvements in blood pressure, oxidative stress, and cholesterol. Berrie...

Sugar, it makes life a little sweeter. But as we know, too much of a good thing can be bad. Whilst it is delicious, an abundance of refined sugar can have a negative effect on your health.   UK Government guidelines suggest adults should have no more than 30g of free sugars a day. Diets which are high in added sugar are strongly linked to medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and fatty liver disease. But does the type of sugar you eat matter?   Today, we’re looking at this plant-based alternative and seeing if coconut sugar is any better for you than regular refined sugar. Is it worth making the switch? Read on to find out!   What is Coconut Sugar?   Coconut sugar, also sometimes referred to as coconut palm sugar is a naturally occurring sugar which comes from the sap of a coconut, which is the sugary fluid circulating the coconut plant.   It is often confused with palm sugar, which is similar, but actually comes from a completely separate variety of palm tree. It’s produced in the Philippines as well as other locations in South East Asia.   The sugar is produced by making a cut on the flower of the coconut palm, and the liquid sap is collected into containers. The sap is then placed under heat until the majority of the water has evaporated, and the dehydrated crystals which are leftover becomes coconut sugar.   How to Use Coconut Sugar   Luckily, refined sugar can be replaced by coconut sugar in pretty much all instances. To use coconut sugar as a substitute for other sugars, simply measure it at a one-for-one ratio.   You can easily swap to this alternative without making any compromises in the way you bake, prepare sauces, or sweeten your food and beverages such as tea and coffee.   And if you’re wondering about the taste and if it will make everything you add it to taste like coconut, it actuall...

  Summer is upon us and that means the weather is heating up, and more people are spending time outside soaking up that sweet, sweet sunshine.   And as happy as that makes us, it’s still essential to make sure you’re keeping protected against the sun’s rays! Just because the Earth-penetrating UVA and UVB rays aren't noticeable to the naked eye, it doesn't make them any less of a danger.   Did you know that the food you eat can have a major impact on how your skin reacts to powerful UV rays? This is because sunburn is a type of inflammation, and diet has a huge influence on inflammation in the body. Your diet can actually increase or decrease your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, as well as its capability to restore itself when it does get damaged or burnt.   That's why we've put together a list of foods that pack in potent UV-protecting nutrients. So add these foods to your shopping list ASAP to prevent burnt and shedding skin this summer!   Blueberries   Blueberries , and most berries in fact, are loaded with powerful antioxidants which protect against free radicals that can damage skin due to stress and of course, sun exposure. Blueberries also a great source of vitamin C, which can boost collagen production and help prevent wrinkles after a long day at the beach. Anyone for fruit salad?   Carrots   Carrots, along with other red and orange fruits and veggies such as oranges, red peppers, and tomatoes, are a triple threat against UV damage! They contain beta-carotene, lycopene, and vitamin C. All three of these important nutrients have been shown to act as a defence against the dangerous effects of sun exposure including photodamage, skin cancer, and premature aging.    Nuts</strong...

Have you seen our brand new website ?   It’s just launched this week, and we hope you love it as much as we do!  😄   Our team have been working hard for the last few months re designing it just for you, and it’s finally here. We would like to encourage all of our customers to enjoy and explore our new site.   As with most new things, there may be a few teething problems or glitches, so we’re asking our customers to please bear with us. Please do let us know if you do experience any issues – we’re happy to help!   The new website has been made using newer technology, so it’s much faster and user friendly. We want our customers to have the best possible experience on our website and find the products that you want, with ease. It’s now easier than ever to shop sustainably and enjoy nourishing, organic wholefoods.   Here at Wholefood Earth, we’re also open to any suggestion or feedback on what you would like to be added to the website, or anything you think would enhance your experience. So please feel free to pop us a message on our webchat, or send us an email on hello@wholefoodearth.com  

Rice is the most important ingredient of sushi. Sushi masters say that rice makes 80% and fish makes only 20% of great sushi.  Cooking sushi rice at home is not as complicated as you may think. In order to make it right, you just to need to remember about a few things. Here's the list of 5 tips for a perfect homemade sushi rice.  1. Buying the right rice Buying the right type of rice for sushi is very important. You can easily find specific sushi rice with relevant information on the packaging. However, when no sushi rice is available, look for short-grain rice that will work best here. You can also opt for the organic version of it.  Short-grain rice has a round shape, with the same length and width and it contains the right amount of starch. Different varieties should have the same effect; just  remember that the protein component should not be more than 6%. The secret of cooking the best sushi rice lies in allowing it to become sticky while maintaining its shape and avoiding becoming too soft. Short-grain rice should do the trick.   2. Making sushi rice vinegar  You need only 3 ingredients to make sushi rice vinegar: rice vinegar, sugar and salt. Per 1 cup of rice you will need to make a solution in this ratio: 2 tbs of rice vinegar + 2 1/2 tsp of sugar + 3/4 tsp of salt. Add all the ingredients to a small pot or saucepan and warm up on a medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolv...

Food waste is a big problem. Did you know that approximately 1/3 of the food produced all over the globe for human consumption is either lost, or wasted?   Here in the UK, it is estimated that roughly 9 million tonnes of food is wasted every year, and a big chunk of it is still edible. On average, UK household throw away around £500 worth of food per year, making us one of the worst countries for food waste in the world.   This high wastage of food is also harmful for the environment. Food waste alone generates about 8% - 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and uses many resources such as land and energy.   The UK Government has stated they are committed to halving the UK’s per capita food waste by 2030. And according to reports, food waste went down during lockdowns, so we know it’s achievable. So, what can we do to help?   At Wholefood Earth we want to help you shop and eat as sustainably as possible, and that includes your waste too. We’ve compiled some handy tips of how to cut down your food waste as much as possible. Even better, these tips can also assist you in saving money and eating more healthily.   Make a list   You know the old saying ‘If you fail to plan, you’re planning to fail’ well that theory works here. Every week, plan out your meals based on your schedule and week ahead. Heading to the shops with a list and a game plan will help you with overbuying as long as you stick to it. If you can, try to stick to the exact amounts you need rather than giving in to multi deal offers. As an added bonus, it will also stop you having to wonder what to have for dinner each night!   Review Your Kitchen Before Shopping   Before you even leave the house, do a quick check on your fridge, freezer, and cupboard to see what...

The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged Europe to fight its obesity "epidemic", which is responsible for at least 1.2 million deaths a year. The WHO says that the majority (60%) of adults and almost a third of children in Europe are overweight or obese. North and South America is the only place where these rates are higher.  The organisation says it's not too late to reverse this terrible trend, but it requires action from the governments of the most affected countries.  Reducing fatty foods and sugary drinks The problem is that most processed and unhealthy foods and drinks are currently the cheapest and these products are so popular among consumers, especially from low-income households. People would buy less harmful products if the prices were significantly higher. Therefore, one of the solutions is adding a special tax on fatty foods and sugary drinks. The WHO says it will effectively fight obesity and type 2 diabetes among kids and adults.  The WHO has long urged countries to tax unhealthy foods but governments have been slow to act, claiming this might be unpopular with businesses or poorer citizens.  The UK is one of the most obese countries  According to the WHO, Europe, the UK is one of the worst countries. It currently ranks as the fourth worst in the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults. However, the government is trying to implement new policies in order to change this situation.  Last month, the government introduced mandatory calorie labelling for all the restaurants, cafes and takeaways in England with more than 250 employees. Following t...

Doctors and dietitians will tell you that all nuts are very healthy.  They are small but very powerful - packed with desirable nutrients. Nuts are a great source of healthy carbs, good protein and dietary fibre. Adding nuts to your diet will provide you with the energy you need to go through a busy day. But what kind of nuts you should stock your kitchen cupboard with (just in case you need a snack in the middle of the day)?  Every type of nut is special and brings unique nutrient qualities, but what nuts are the best for us? Here's the answer: Walnuts If you follow an intense lifestyle, busy schedule and long hours working, walnuts are great for you. They have the highest amount of the most common omega-3 fatty acid found in food - the alpha-linolenic acids. Walnuts help you keep your brain healthy. If you eat walnuts regularly, it may help you with dementia and cardiovascular disease.  Almonds Almonds are packed with one of the most powerful antioxidants - Vitamin E. It will help you protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E also improves blood health, keeps your skin and eye healthy and supports the immune system. It's a real superfood!  Peanuts Peanuts are cheap, but they contain great nutrients. They have a lot of protein (the highest amount among nuts). They are also quite high in fibre and a great source of biotin, an important Vitamin B. Biotin helps keep blood sugar levels steady and keeps your hair and nails healthy.  Pistachios Pistachios are particularly rich in fibre (something very important that most of the people don't take en...

Plant-based milk has become more popular these days. They are available in every supermarket and corner shop. Popular coffee chains offer hot beverages with soy milk, oat milk, almond milk and coconut milk as a replacement for cow's milk. I enjoy my morning coffee with unsweetened almond or soy milk every day, drink oat milk occasionally, and have tried most plant-based milk alternatives, looking for the perfect one!  Why do people buy more plant-based milk? Lactose intolerance and milk allergy are among the main reasons why people head for plant-based milk. People who suffer from different diseases such as Crohn's and Colitis or inflammatory bowel syndrome cannot drink milk other than plant-based.  People who don't like the taste of cow's milk but like the creamy taste and consistency of coffee and tea also are among the customers looking for dairy-free options. In recent years, the vegan diet has become very trendy. Vegans do not consume any animal-based products, and that includes all kinds of dairy, for ethical reasons. Finally, there are more and more concerns over the quality of dairy products, with many of them possibly containing antibiotics, pesticides, and hormones harmful to humans.  Health &amp; environment The environmental impact of dairy farming is another serious concern. Animal agriculture is responsible for severe greenhouse gas emissions (18%) and land waste. In a recent study conducted at the University of Oxford, scientists compared the greenhouse gases from over 10,000 farms around the world that produce cow and plant-based milks. The researchers found that 9 times more land is needed to make 1 litre of dairy milk than a 1 litre of soy, oat, rice or almond milk. Here's what you need to know about dairy-free mil...

If you’re somebody that avoids gluten in their diet, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate what you can and can’t eat.  However, there are still plenty of foods you can choose from to ensure you’re eating a nutritious, balanced diet, that’s satisfying, as well as tasty!   Of course, the most simple, cheapest, and healthy way to follow a gluten-free diet is to fill up on the food groups that are naturally gluten free. And luckily for you, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of all the food groups which naturally do not contain gluten. You can thank us later 😉   Fruits and Vegetables   Good news – fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten-free! Although, do make sure to read labels on any processed fruits and veggies, as well as dried fruit, pre-prepared smoothies, and frozen potatoes in case they have had anything added that contains gluten.   Meat, Poultry and Fish   Almost all fresh, unprocessed animal proteins are naturally free from gluten. Just make sure to check any meat or fish that has been breaded, processed, ground meats and cold cuts. Or anything that comes in a sauce, marinade, or seasoning which may include gluten-containing ingredients.   Unflavoured Soy Foods   Rejoice vegetarians, vegans, and plant based folks as soy based meat substitutes are indeed gluten free naturally. Pure soybeans do not have gluten in them, so tofu, tempeh and soya are still on the menu. The only one you need to avoid is seitan which is made from wheat gluten.   Legumes and Nuts   Another plant based protein source that does not contain gluten naturally are nuts and legumes. They’re not only gluten free, but packed full of important nutrients too. So, eat as many beans, peas, lentils, and nuts to your hearts content!   Most Dairy Pr...

Adding more whole grains and nuts to your diet can have an amazing impact on your brain health!  If you want to keep your brain healthy, try to avoid simple carbohydrates. They break down quickly into sugars. When you eat simple carbs you may feel a spike of energy that will last only for a short while.  High sugar makes your brain work functioning decrease.  Replace bad carbs with good carbs When shopping for food and preparing meals at home try to cut out refined carbohydrates and replace them with whole grains and nuts. They contain complex carbohydrates that processed by your body in a good way. These carbs break down slowly and sugars are released gradually. That means the energy is released slowly and your body and brain will function in a more efficient way. Stock your pantry with healthy whole grains  Whole grains, such as brown rice, barley, oats, barley, and quinoa are high in B vitamins and can potentially preserving your memory. Vitamins B help reduce inflammation of the brain and work to convert homocysteine (amino acid) into essential brain chemicals used for learning and maintaining memories. Whole grains are also significantly rich in magnesium which keeps your brain cells and nervous system healthily connected. Magnesium helps pass on the signals between your brain and body. It improves the functioning of the neurotransmitters responsible for attention.  Add nuts to your diet Add more nuts to your diet. Walnuts for example, contain the beneficial  Omega-3 fatty acid.  Eating more walnuts   can improve cognitive function of your brain  and help reduce the risk of diseases, such as depression, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dementia.  Almonds and Hazelnuts are great sources of vitamin E. This vitamin is associated with ...

We're celebrating the annual National Vegetarian Week (16-22 May) this week. Every year, The Vegetarian Society launches a dedicated campaign to encourage more people to reduce their meat consumption and spread awareness of climate change. As one of the best things we can do for our planet is to eat less meat, this year's campaign motto is:  "Choose veggie! Choose climate! Choose wildlife!"  It appears that more and more Brits are aware that their dietary choices matter not only for their health but also for the planet. According to a recent You Gov survey, more than a quarter of Brits (27%) are considering eating less meat – with health and climate change given as the main reasons to do so. For younger generations, the environment is even more critical. Half of the respondents (50%) under 34 years old said they were strongly motivated by climate change. More than a fifth of people (21%) who said they were considering reducing the amount of meat they eat gave animal welfare as their main reason.  A plant-based diet is better for the planet as it contributes significantly less to global warming. It produces a lot fewer carbon emissions than a diet that is rich in meat and dairy. A diet based on unprocessed whole foods is a healthier, more environmentally-friendly and more affordable option, especially for households on tight budgets. Climate change negatively influences wildlife and causes the risk of extinction for many species. The Vegetarian Society awareness campaign aims to educate that when you choose...

Gluten can be a pretty controversial topic these days. It can cause serious side effects in some individuals and as such, it gets a pretty bad reputation in the food world. You’ve probably seen most supermarkets, restaurants and other food joints will now have entirely gluten free selections.   But what exactly is gluten, and is it healthy, or something we should all be avoiding in our diets?   What is Gluten?   Gluten is a type of protein that is found in the wheat plant and some other grains. The gluten is actually a crucial part of the plant as it helps feed baby seedlings while they germinate. It is naturally occurring, but can be extracted, concentrated, and added to food and other products to add protein, texture, and flavour.   Gluten also works as a binding agent to give processed foods structure and help to hold together. When flour is mixed with liquid, the gluten proteins form a sticky connection that has a glue-like texture. This glue-like characteristic makes the dough elastic and gives bread and other baked goods the ability to rise during baking. It also provides a chewy, satisfying consistency.   Fun fact, it was actually given the name gluten due to the glue-like property of wet dough!   Foods Containing Gluten   When most people hear gluten, they mainly think of wheat or foods containing wheat. However, gluten can be found in a wide range of whole and processed foods, including:   Grains such as whole wheat, wheat bran, barley, rye, spelt, kamut, couscous, semolina, bulgur, durum, and wheat germ.   Processed grain-based products like crackers, bread, pasta, seitan, cookies, pastries, certain noodles, some veggie burgers along with other meat substitutes.   Other foods and beverages</str...

Wondering what to eat to extend your lifespan and healthspan? For many years, scientists have been trying to understand what makes certain people live longer. The latest study was published in the journal CellTrusted Source. The team of scientists reviewed hundreds of studies to determine what foods are essential for human health and longevity.  What is a healthy diet?  The researchers found that diets with low meat and dairy and high in complex carbohydrates are the most beneficial for human health and long life. Growing evidence suggests that animal protein is not healthy for humans and therefore should be avoided and replaced by plant-based protein from legumes. A healthy diet should also include short periods of fasting. Also, in order to be the most beneficial, it should be tailored to everyone individually regarding their sex, age, and genetics. The researchers analysed hundreds of studies on nutrition, ageing, caloric restriction, nutrient response pathways, fasting and investigated different lifestyles and diets of centenarians.  They found that diets including mid-to-high levels of unrefined carbohydrates, a low but sufficient plant-based protein intake, and fish consumption were linked to good health and longevity.  <span class="c-mrkdwn__br" data-stringify-t...

We’ve had some questions and reviews from customers regarding how to cook our roasted buckwheat. Plus, what’s the difference between roasted and raw buckwheat? Well ask, and you shall surely receive! Keep on reading to find out how to make flawless Kasha.   What is Roasted Buckwheat?   Buckwheat is an ancient type of grain-like seed, also known as a pseudo cereal. It’s mainly harvested in China, Russia, and Europe. Despite its confusing name, it actually does not contain any wheat, and is therefore gluten free.   The roasted variety, also known as Kasha, has been prominent in Eastern European and Asian cuisine for centuries. However, it is now becoming more popular worldwide, in part due to its high mineral and antioxidant content. Buckwheat is also a great source of fibre and protein.   Kasha is brown in colour and has an earthier, nutty, and slightly more bitter flavour, which is stronger than raw buckwheat. It can be eaten as a snack, or used as a tasty alternative to couscous, bulgur wheat, rice, and pasta.   How to Cook   Firstly, what you need to know when it comes to cooking Kasha is it’s not the same as cooking raw buckwheat. Therefore, it does not need to be soaked or rinsed beforehand and does not need to be cooked as long either.   Here are the cooking instructions you need to make perfect Kasha, every time. This cooking method has been tried and tested by our Ukrainian staff member, where Kasha is considered a very popular cuisine and a diet staple.   Feel free to add some salt and butter or seasoning if you wish to bring out the flavours a bit more.     Add 2 cups of water per 1 cup of buckwheat. Bring to a boil over a medium heat. Reduce heat, cover, and let it cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the water evaporates.  Remove from boil...

We’ve all heard the classic saying that ‘Breakfast is the most important meal of the day’, but is there any truth to it? Well, some of the clue to why it’s touted as being so essential is in the name itself: it’s the way to break our overnight fast. But is skipping it really the dietary faux pas we’ve been led to believe?   Well, it turns out there’s many reasons why breakfast is such a significant mealtime. Many studies have shown that regularly eating a good breakfast is linked to better memory and focus, decreased ‘bad’ cholesterol, less risk of developing certain diseases, weight management and good health overall. So seems breakfast is rather beneficial, after all!   To help you out, we’ve made a list of healthy breakfast foods, which are mostly vegan friendly, and thrown in a few recipes if you’re needing some inspiration. Let’s get cracking!   Oats   Having oats for breakfast is one of the best ways you can start your day. They’re one of the healthiest grains on the planet, and are packed full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.   Oats are also rich in fibre, which keeps you feeling satiated for longer, whilst also lowering blood sugar and insulin response. This is particularly important in the morning, so you don’t start to crave unhealthy snacks or overeat later in the day.   Another great aspect of oats is that they’re easy to prepare and can be paired with basically anything. Make them sweet or savoury by including whatever toppings you heart desires.  For a slightly different take on traditional oatmeal, have a look at our Fruit &amp; Nut Overnight Oats .   Muffins   Muffins at first glance may not seem like the healthiest choice, however there’s still ways ...

  Psyllium husk is a naturally occurring, plant-derived source of fibre. It’s probably most well-known for its potential to improve digestive health and constipation by acting as a natural laxative.   But are there any other health benefits to gain from using psyllium husk? In this article, we will explore the story behind this seed, as well as its potential perks and any side effects.   What is Psyllium Husk?   Psyllium is a type of fibre that is made from the husks of the  Plantago ovata  plant’s seeds. It is also sometimes referred to by the name ispaghula. The plant is native to Asia and although most predominantly grown in India, it can still be found in other locations around the world.   It is a natural source of soluble fibre, similar to fibre found in grains such as oats and barley, however psyllium husk is naturally gluten free. This makes it perfect for anyone with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance who is looking to increase their fibre intake. If you want to know why fibre is such a vital part of your diet, then have a read of Why is Fibre Important?   What is Psyllium Husk Used For?   Some people may require a fibre supplement such as psyllium to help with a range of health issues. Fibre slows digestion, allowing the body to absorb nutrients from your food as it passes through the stomach and intestines.   However, psyllium husk is most commonly used as a bulk forming laxative. In fact, it’s generally the main ingredient in many over-the-counter laxatives. As psyllium travels through digestive tract, it absorbs water in the intestines, expands, and helps create the formation of a gel-like stool that's softer and easy to pass.   Psyllium can eit...

You’ve probably already heard of the term ‘plant-based diet’, as it has taken the world by storm in recent years. Now, more than ever before, people are starting to move away from consuming meat and adopting a more plant-rich diet. What was once something that may have been considered a ‘niche’ or a ‘trend’, has now become a popular lifestyle choice.   Due to its increase in popularity and demand, you can now find a plant-based version of pretty much any food or drink your heart desires. If you go to your local supermarket they’ll generally be a wide variety of plant-based products available, and often a dedicated section. Restaurants, public events and even many fast food chains now have plant-based options on their menus.   However, deciding to switch over to a plant-based diet, or just incorporating more of it into your lifestyle can be difficult to navigate. But here at Wholefood Earth, we’re here to give you a helping hand.  So, if you want to know more about the plant-based diet, along with how transitioning can be beneficial for the environment and your health - then carry on reading!   What is a Plant-Based Diet?   A plant-based diet for beginners can be a great place to start if you’ve been considering eating less meat and are wanting to include more fruit, vegetables, and wholefoods into your diet.   Many people use the term “plant-based” to illustrate that they eat a diet that either entirely or mostly comprises of plant foods. Although, there are some people on a plant-based diet that may still eat certain animal-derived products. Being plant-based doesn’t mean that you are vegetarian or vegan and therefore do not eat any meat or dairy. Instead, it is more about choosing to source a higher proportion of your foods from plant sources.   Other people may use the phrase “whole foods, plant-based” to describe their diet, which differs slightly from ...

  Raisins. Those small but tasty fruits that are full of sweet and juicy flavour, in fact, one could describe them as nature’s very own candy! They are featured in many traditional British baking recipes, but can also be used in savoury dishes, along with being a quick and healthy snack.   But what even are they and are raisins any good for you? And what’s the difference between raisins and sultanas? Well, we have the answers for you right here in this very article. Read on raisin fans!   How Are Raisins Made?   Raisins are in fact dried grapes. The grapes can be dried either by the sun or by a mechanical process, which results in what we call, raisins. These dried fruits are produced and eaten all over the world. The drying process affects the shape, sizes, colours, and flavours.   You may wonder why it is then that raisins don’t actually taste like grapes, considering most dried fruits still taste like their fresh counterparts. This is possibly because the drying process concentrates the sugar content in the fruit.  As grapes ripen there is also a flavour progression.   Raisins probably came to exist entirely by accident. It is said they were likely discovered in prehistoric times when some grapes were accidentally left out and dried in the sun. Some curious growers decided to try the wrinkled fruit and enjoyed the sweetness of them - What a tasty mishap! Guess everything happens for a raisin 😉   Different Types of Raisins   There are many different varieties of raisins out there, but here are some of the most popular and well known types, and the differences between them -   Raisins   The most famous guys on this list are the standard raisin . They are a type of grape that has been dried for around three weeks. As ...