Health & Nutrition Guides
🌿 Alkaline Diet Basics
What is an Alkaline Diet?
An alkaline diet emphasizes foods that help maintain the body's natural pH balance. The goal is to consume foods that promote alkalinity (pH above 7) rather than acidity.
Key Principles:
- Focus on plant-based whole foods
- Emphasize leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits
- Minimize processed foods and refined sugars
- Stay hydrated with alkaline water
- Incorporate herbs and spices
Benefits:
- Improved energy levels
- Better digestion
- Reduced inflammation
- Enhanced immune function
- Support for chronic disease management
🫘 Kidney Health Guide
Supporting Kidney Function
Healthy kidneys filter waste and excess fluids from your blood. An alkaline vegan diet can support kidney health by reducing the workload on these vital organs.
Key Nutrients for Kidney Health:
- Low Sodium: Helps manage blood pressure
- Controlled Potassium: Important for those with kidney issues
- Moderate Protein: Plant proteins are easier on kidneys
- Antioxidants: Protect kidney cells from damage
Kidney-Friendly Foods in This Plan:
- Leafy greens (kale, collards)
- Berries (blueberries, cranberries)
- Cauliflower and cabbage
- Bell peppers
- Apples and grapes
💚 Liver Support Guide
Nourishing Your Liver
The liver performs over 500 functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and digestion. Supporting liver health through diet is crucial for overall wellness.
Liver-Supporting Foods:
- Leafy Greens: Chlorophyll helps neutralize toxins
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Support detoxification enzymes
- Beets: Contain betalains that support liver function
- Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Garlic: Activates liver enzymes
Herbal Support:
- Milk thistle tea
- Dandelion root tea
- Green tea
- Burdock root tea
🧠 Stroke Recovery Support
Nutrition for Brain Health
Recovery from stroke requires nutrients that support brain healing, reduce inflammation, and protect against further damage.
Key Nutrients for Brain Recovery:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: From flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts
- Antioxidants: Berries, dark leafy greens
- B Vitamins: Whole grains, legumes
- Magnesium: Nuts, seeds, leafy greens
Foods That Support Brain Health:
- Blueberries and strawberries
- Walnuts and almonds
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Avocados
- Sweet potatoes
🍵 Herbal Tea Guide
Dual Tea Pairings
Each recipe in this plan includes both caffeinated and non-caffeinated herbal tea options, allowing you to choose based on your needs and time of day.
Caffeinated Teas:
- Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants, supports metabolism
- Yerba Mate: Energy boost, aids digestion
- Black Tea: Heart health support
Non-Caffeinated Teas:
- Chamomile: Calming, aids sleep
- Peppermint: Digestive support
- Rooibos: Antioxidant-rich, mineral-dense
- Hibiscus: Blood pressure support
- Ginger: Anti-inflammatory, digestive aid
⏰ Meal Prep Tips
Prep-Ahead Strategies
Many recipes in this plan are marked as "prep-ahead friendly" to make your weekly routine easier.
Batch Cooking Tips:
- Cook grains and beans in large batches
- Prep vegetables on Sunday for the week
- Make salad dressings and sauces ahead
- Portion snacks into containers
- Freeze soups and stews in individual servings
Storage Guidelines:
- Cooked grains: 5-7 days in refrigerator
- Cooked beans: 5 days in refrigerator
- Chopped vegetables: 3-5 days
- Prepared salads: 2-3 days
- Most items: 2-3 months in freezer