Happy hump-day! We’re officially heading into Autumn. Are you sad to see summer go?

Today we’re asking…

🌱 Can you tell the difference between sourdough and sourfaux?

🌱 What’s 6 natural ways to reduce water retention?

And let’s not forget your free crazy good cookie recipe! (Yes, it’s gluten-free and Vegan friendly!)

Healthy News Doses

Watch Out For Sourfaux!

It seems these days everyone’s talking about sourdough! Whether it’s the latest bakery to open up on your street, or you’ve taken a keen interest in baking yourself, it’s clear – this bread is here to stay!

The allure of home-baking is timeless, especially with the fluctuating wheat crop forecasts.

The beauty of sourdough lies in its simplicity: just flour, water, and salt. But don't be fooled! The variables of temperature, time, and flour quality make each loaf a unique adventure. It's the kind of hobby that has you checking on your fermenting dough at 1 a.m., entranced by the process. Although, in my opinion this really isn’t necessary!

But, what's really in that store-bought loaf? A recent study found that a whopping 83% of "sourdough" breads sold in supermarkets contain extra ingredients like yeast, emulsifiers, and even preservatives…yuckk!

So much for authenticity, right?

The sourdough market is booming, and it seems everyone wants a slice of this "health halo." But let's get real—authenticity matters. If you're on the hunt for genuine sourdough, make sure to check the ingredients. It should only contain flour, salt, and water, along with a natural starter.

So what do you say? Maybe it's time to embrace the joy of baking your own loaf. After all, nothing beats the smell of fresh bread in the morning!

If you’re not quite ready yet, check out this article which gives you the pro’s and cons of store-bought vs local bakery bread!

6 Ways to Reduce Water-Retention

Feeling a bit...swollen? Let’s talk about water retention, also known as edema. It's a common issue for many people that makes your feet, ankles, and hands swell up like a balloon. 🎈 It can also be incredibly dangerous if left untreated, my Gran learned this the hard way a few years ago (She’s all safe and sound now though).

But it brought the issue to the forefront to me…

So, What Causes Water Retention?

From hormonal changes to lack of exercise, the causes of edema are as varied as your Netflix watchlist. Sometimes it's a symptom of a serious medical condition, but often it's just a lifestyle issue that can be managed.

Six Ways to Deflate

Cut the Salt: Sodium is the frenemy of fluid balance. It loves water so much that it makes your body hold onto it. But the science is mixed—some people may be more salt-sensitive than others.

Magnesium Magic: This mineral is involved in 300+ enzymatic reactions in your body. Some studies suggest it can help reduce water retention, especially during PMS. 🌰

Boost Vitamin B6: This vitamin is a multitasker, aiding in everything from red blood cell formation to brain function. It may also help regulate fluid balance. 🍌

Potassium Power: This mineral counteracts sodium's water-hoarding tendencies and helps maintain a healthy fluid balance. 🥑

Dandelion Diuretic: Folk medicine swears by dandelion for increasing urine production and reducing water retention. 🌼

Fewer Refined Carbs: Processed foods can mess with your fluid balance. Stick to fruits, veggies, and herbs for a more balanced you.

Consult Your Doc

Before you go all-in on these remedies, especially dandelion supplements, consult a healthcare professional.

If you're dealing with mild swelling and don't have an underlying health condition, these six methods could be your ticket to a less puffy existence.

Community Shout-out

Dreamy Artisan Herb Loaf

I’m with Nancy on that last one. Never waste a crumb!

Got a pic to share? Join our Facebook Community and post away :)

“... Is There a Shortcut?... ”

“I just ran out of time” – is some of the saddest feedback we hear from the community when it comes to baking GF and regular sourdough.

And it’s just one of the problems that stop you from ever falling in love with the joys of sourdough baking...am I right?

This means that you and your loved ones never experience the beauty of baking (and sharing!) the delicious, healthy, sourdough recipes you deserve.

💔 …“So upsetting”…

Some bread-lovers never even get the chance to give gluten-free sourdough a go.

You might love the idea…

But because you’re simply “too busy” to get the right ingredients and equipment needed….

You might “never get the chance” to experience the passion of making these sourdough recipes for themselves.

… In fact – One member of our community summed it up perfectly when she emailed to ask us:

“Can’t you just send me everything I need in a box!?”

Well, what a brilliant idea 😉 find your sourdough shortcut here…

The ​Cooking Corner

Crazy Good Chocolate Chip Cookies (Plant-Based & GF)

Who doesn’t love cookies? Not my nephews and nieces that’s for sure! This weekend, instead of buying those store-bought cookies filled with who knows what, why not try whipping up a delicious gluten-free batch instead?

Ingredients:

• 275g almond flour

• 250g light brown sugar

• 120ml coconut milk

• 125g cold coconut oil

• 1 tsp. baking powder

• ¼ tsp. bicarbonate soda

• 150g vegan dark chocolate chips

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 50g toasted coconut flakes (optional)

• ½ tsp. flakey salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the coconut oil and light brown sugar. Whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

2. Add the flour, baking powder, coconut milk, bicarbonate of soda, flakey sea salt, and vanilla to the bowl and mix together until a cookie dough texture forms.

3. Cover and chill the cookie dough in the fridge for a minimum of two hours before baking. The dough can be kept in the fridge for up to four days.

4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF. Line two baking trays with parchment paper, roll golf ball-sized pieces, and place them on the tray, making sure to leave room for expansion. Flatten the cookie balls slightly with the back of a spoon, and sprinkle with flakey salt and flaked coconut at this point (both optional).

5. Bake on the middle shelf of the oven for 12-15 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through baking. When ready, remove and transfer to a cooling rack for the sugar to cool, and a crisp chewy cookie to form.

Enjoy warm, or store in a tight lock container for up to 3 days.

Until next week,

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