The change of the seasons brings with it a change in our bodies as well. We are interconnected with the environment around us!
Spring is a time of new beginnings and I think we're all ready for that! As the flowers start to bloom and the trees blossom outside, we also want to take the time to consider changes to our wellness routine.
Seasonal eating is an important aspect of our health as it means that we are consuming the foods our body needs in their freshest state and with the highest level of nutrients. For example, have you ever noticed that when the weather gets warmer, you naturally crave lighter foods such as salads and fresh fruit?
Have you ever noticed that when the weather gets warmer, you naturally crave lighter foods such as salads and fresh fruit?
And how about for dessert? One of my favourite foods is chocolate, so I created this light and healthy chocolate mousse that has a delicious taste and flavour without ingredients that will harm your body, inside or out.
Cacao
I often speak about the anti-inflammatory benefits of cacao, which come from the flavonoids in raw cacao. Not only does it taste delicious, but it can also provide photoprotection, which can benefit our skin as we are exposed to more sun in the warmer months.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates are loaded with important nutrients and a little goes a long way! Pomegranate juice is said to have three times the antioxidant activity of green tea. Other benefits include those for the heart, joints, brain and athletic performance.
Fun Fact: Find pomegranate in Skin Stuff Face + Eye Cream
Avocado
Avocado is a great source of healthy fats and soluble fibre. It also contains beneficial compounds that fight inflammation and nourish the skin from the inside out.
Blackcurrant
Blackcurrants are in season in July and August in Canada and can be found the rest of the year as a powder or in juice or jams. Blackcurrants contain four times the amount of vitamin C as oranges and twice the antioxidants as blueberries. This boosts the health benefits of this recipe since vitamin C helps to metabolize protein into collagen, which is essential for healthful skin and joints.
Fun Fact: Find blackcurrant in Skin Stuff Face + Eye Cream
Maple
What sets maple syrup apart from refined sugar is its antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, especially manganese, which is often included therapeutically for inflammatory issues. Manganese also helps to control blood sugar and activate enzymes in metabolism. However, it’s still important to use it in moderation.
Fun Fact: Find maple sap water in Skin Stuff Face + Eye Cream
Vegan Chocolate Mousse with Pomegranate and Blackcurrant
Makes 3 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 large ripe avocado
- ¼ cup cacao powder
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla
- Toppings: pomegranate arils and blackcurrants
Directions:
- Add all the ingredients except for the toppings into a blender or food processor.
- Process until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon out into dessert bowls and add toppings.
NOTE: If you can’t find fresh blackcurrants, try adding 1 tsp dried powder into the blender with the other ingredients or top with a teaspoon of blackcurrant jam.
Written by Bonnie Flemington, a Certified Nutritional Practitioner. To learn more about Bonnie, please click here.
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